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www.max-publishing.co.uk Celebrating its ninth year in the UK, the original brand of ceramic non-stick GreenPan™ has launched Infinty Professional, its fifth generation of Thermolon™ coating and the next step in the future of ceramic non-stick! Enhanced with diamonds and metal utensil safe, Infinity Professional is GreenPan’s most advanced and durable coating to date.

Diamonds are the hardest material known to man and intrinsically non-stick as well as being four times as thermal conductive as copper. Infinity allows GreenPan™ to keep its leading position in healthy and sustainable non-stick coatings. Venice Pro (pictured) is one of four ranges featuring the new coating. It is a comprehensive heavy-gauge hard anodised range, suitable for all hobs including induction, with GreenPan’s own Magneto™ energy-saving induction base. www.greenpan.co.uk

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

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.

Editor’s comment

Above: CHA chairman, Chris Lynn-Thomas of Kooks Unlimited, PH’s According to Verdict’s latest Home Retail Series report, Emma Cain, Jakki Brown and Jo Howard, with bira’s Sarah Golden the home décor market will be protected from a post and Kate Godber at The Excellence in Housewares Awards.

Brexit-slump in spending. In fact, Verdict predicts the sector will account for 12.1% of the homewares market by 2021. The report reflects on the fact that today’s wide choice of trend-driven household accessories are providing consumers with cost-efficient options for updating the look of a home, with consumer interest stimulated by social media forums such as Pinterest.

To what extent does or will this scenario apply to housewares products too, if increasing numbers of budget conscious consumers shy away from bigger ticket purchases for the home, but still want to refresh their kitchen?

The current retail challenge being discussed by many is, of course, price rises, some of which have been described as “eye-watering” in the housewares sector. Helen Dickinson, director general of the BRC, is one of those putting the subject on the media agenda. For example, talking on BBC Radio 4 on October 10, Helen voiced her concerns about the impact of rising prices across UK retail when new imported stock affected by the fall in the £pound reaches the shelves (in the new year, if not already).

If consumers are going to have to accept rising costs, including food bills (as the recent Marmite headlines highlighted) then perhaps there are also opportunities for housewares retailers to highlight the savings to be made from cooking from scratch. Moreover, in the run-up to Christmas, let’s hope that more consumers see the sense in buying useful gifts that will help friends and family cook and entertain at home.

Not surprisingly, housewares retailers are now pulling out the stops to inspire consumers and gain their loyalty in the busiest last months of the year, from the new John Lewis in Leeds (the retailer’s most experience-focused store to date – see news) to the Excellence in Retailer Initiative winner, Leekes, with its loyalty card.

Talking of Excellence in Housewares Award winners, this issue is packed with pictures, comments and the full line-up of glorious trophy recipients from October’s Awards, organised by PH in conjunction with the CHA. If you weren’t there in person for the sensational night, then you might have followed the excitement of the winners’ announcement on PH’s new Twitter feed. Turn to pages 24-39 (as well as news) to re-live the occasion with all of its bright lights (not least the illuminated invitations and menus) and big noise from the thunderous welcome drums, to the Bollywood dance sensations!

Jo Howard

Editor

inhouse Jo Howard Editor joh@max-publishing.co.uk Warren Lomax Publishing director warren@max-publishing.co.uk Jakki Brown Editor-in-chief jw@max-publishing.co.uk Emma Cain Product page editor emmac@max-publishing.co.uk

In this issue 5-17

News

46-48 Market focus: Mugs and cups

18

CHA news

49

19

BHETA news

50-51 Retailer focus: Fenwick Colchester

Autumn Fair review

20-21 Food for thought: The festive kick-off

52-53 Celebrity focus: Raymond Blanc

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54-55 What's Cooking for Christmas?

Shop Talk: Ruby & Scarlet, Felixstowe

Patrick Wade Advertisement director mediap@aol.com

24-27 Excellence in Housewares Awards: Photos from the big night

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

28-39 Excellence in Housewares Awards: The winners

56-59 Product focus: Christmas gifts and preparation 60-61 New Products

40-45 Market focus: Knives and accessories

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Star-studded night

A ‘baker’s dozen’ of winners Another of the night’s highlights, this year’s Excellence in Housewares Awards Raffle provided 13 lucky guests with sensational prizes, from the latest upmarket gadgetry to a week in a holiday home in Pembrokeshire, from cookery courses to department store spending sprees, entertainment vouchers to a ‘makeover of your smalls' drawer’ (with help of Victoria Secrets and Calvin Klein vouchers).

The raffle raised over £3,300 to be divided between Shelter (PH’s Housewares for the Homeless) and The Rainy Day Trust.

A huge thank you to all the generous individuals, retailers, suppliers and associations who donated prizes: Bentalls, BHETA, bira direct, Bryan Clover, Burton McCall, Dexam, EPE Group, Mhairi Coull Marketing, Nespresso, OXO, simplehuman, SMART Worldwide and Steamer Trading.

One guest’s name was also drawn from a hat to win an overnight ‘Relax and Rewind’ spa break, courtesy of Fiskars. The prize was in celebration of Fiskars’ orange handled scissors’ 50th anniversary next year. The winner was Hobbycraft’s David Westman (see photo pages 24-27).

Housewares ‘stars’ gathered in style on October 5 to find out the winners of Excellence in Housewares Awards 2016 (organised by PH in conjunction with the CHA).

Over 400 retailers and suppliers attended the ‘all singing and dancing’ awards night at The London Lancaster with an exuberant Bollywood theme. Dhol drummers welcomed guests as they made their way into the champagne reception, complete with music from sitar players (sponsored by Ultimate Products).

As host, BBC Asia presenter Tommy Sandhu kept humorous pace throughout the night’s 21 Awards, while world famous Bollywood superstar, Karan Pangali of KSpark entertained guests with an incredible dance performance, as well as leading a memorable dance workshop. Cocktails from Vitamix and music from live band, The Lionels helped guests celebrate into the early hours.

The Honorary Achievement Award went to Above: Patrick Wade received an Outstanding Contribution Award, Jeremy Horwood, sales director of Horwood presented by Max Publishing’s Warren Lomax (left) with CHA chairman, Chris Lynn-Thomas. (See linked story). who, when accepting his trophy, looked back over 40 years of friendships in the industry.

He reflected that he had: “finished school on the Friday and started work on the Monday” in his family’s business (see page 39). Retail winners included Yorkshire department stores, Barkers Home and Barnitts, while London based, Lords scooped The CHA Retailer of the Year. Meanwhile, as a reflection of the industry's diversity, suppliers of all shapes and sizes received trophies in the product categories.

The start of the evening was marked by the presentation of a special award, recognising Outstanding Contribution, to Patrick Wade of PH and the Exclusively Shows (see linked story).

Jo Howard, PH editor commented on the fitting theme for the evening: “’Bollywood’ provided a sensational backdrop for our celebration of the housewares’ industry’s achievements.” She added: “After all, so much of today’s housewares retailing is about putting on a showstopper in-store to capture the attention of ever more demanding consumers.” (See linked stories, news page 7 and pages 24- 39).

Special Excellence in Housewares tribute to Patrick

Above: Some of the extensive array of kitchenware on view at Premier Housewares’ new showroom.

Welcome to Premier’s homes Premier Housewares is proud to reveal its newly refurbished and enlarged showroom, which boasts 25 room sets, including five kitchens, 19 living rooms and a garden. The new kitchen areas include functional and decorative products for the kitchen, as well as furnishings and lighting.

Visitors will be treated to refreshments from the working kitchen and dining area in the heart of the showroom.

The 1750 m2 showroom opens on November 7 at the Premier Business Park in Glasgow.

The Excellence in Housewares Awards night started with a surprise announcement as Max Publishing’s joint md, Warren Lomax joined CHA chairman, Chris Lynn-Thomas and PH editor Jo Howard on stage after their welcome speeches.

Warren presented a special Outstanding Contribution Award to Patrick Wade, recognising his commitment to the housewares industry. Before making the announcement, Warren reflected: “This man is a true pioneer, who over 30 years ago launched the first housewares trade magazine in what was then an embryonic retail market.” He described: “A gentlemen salesman of the old school whose word is always his bond and who has never made an enemy in his entire long career.”

As part of Max Publishing’s team for 17 years, Patrick has helped take the PH and the Excellence in Housewares Awards to new levels, but, as Warren pointed out: “his huge strengths of charm, humour, integrity and attention to detail were too good for us at Max to monopolise completely,” noting Patrick’s involvement in building on the success of Exclusively Housewares and helping to launch its sister show Exclusively Electricals.” Warren stated that: “working with him is an absolute joy and I know so many people in this room tonight would say exactly the same thing.”

Accepting his Award, Patrick thanked the whole industry, reflecting that, “when I started, it was hardware and pots and pans, and the market has now grown with the help of manufacturers and retailers, into what we know today, in terms of fashion and style.”

Progressive Housewares

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PEOPLE

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● John Horton, the managing director of Amefa UK has moved on after seven successful years. John commented: “We posted record results for our year ended on April 30, profits are growing very nicely and the business is on a really strong financial footing. So, having turned the company around and then grown it significantly, my job is done.” John has joined SME consultancy, Fresh Thinking, as well as driving a couple of other businesses.

Pinnacle of retail The Excellence in Housewares Awards night saw the announcement of two exceptional awards for two outstanding retailer winners. The inaugural Oxford Summer School Prize, sponsored by bira, went to Fenwick Colchester (previously Williams & Griffin). The new prize entitles the winner to specialised retail management training, with a value up to £2995.

Recognised as the leading centre for retail education, the Oxford Summer School has been transforming the careers of retail professionals from their first steps in retail management right through to board level since 1923.

The retailer awards culminated in the revelation of the UK gia (Global Innovation Awards) winner 2016/2017 – Borough Kitchen (of Borough Market, Hampstead and Chiswick). Borough Kitchen will receive its national trophy at the gia gala next March in Chicago, during the International Home + Housewares Show( IH+HS, March 18-21). The retailer will go head to head with over 20 other national winners for the coveted title of global honoree. Borough Kitchen will also be part of an inspirational gia exhibition in the Hall of Global Innovation at the show. The gia programme is sponsored and organised by the International Housewares Association with PH as its exclusive UK sponsor.

Borough Kitchen founders, Justin Kowbel and David Caldana commented: “The team at Borough Kitchen are thrilled and honoured to be recognised by the IHA and proud to represent the UK this coming March in Chicago.”

● A ndy Street has stepped down as managing director of John Lewis after 31 years with the Partnership, including nine years as md. Andy has been selected as the official Conservative Party candidate for the office of Mayor of the West Midlands. ● Robert Harley has been appointed as sales director of SodaStream UK. Robert joined the UK team in December 2014 as a national account manager.

Bentalls’ housewares still life windows Top: Oxford Summer School md, Dominic Prendergast (left) presented the new Oxford Summer School Award to Dean Hawes of Fenwick Colchester.

Above: Marcus Findlay, from the IHA’s UK office, Plimco presented the gia UK winner’s certificate to Justin Kowbel, Simone Hillman and David Caldana of Borough Kitchen.

Bentalls’ recent Artisan themed window scheme included still life ‘paintings’ of its homewares displays, which included Orla Kiely kitchenware, as well as paint themed displays featuring paint tins and an array of hanging paint brushes and paint that appeared to drip dramatically down the top of the windows. KitchenAid and Le Creuset products featured in red and orange windows respectively.

Record year for Ultimate Products Ultimate Products has reported a 23.2% surge in sales to £79m. Following a strong first-half of the year, growth has continued into the second-half, with profit before tax up over 50% on the prior year.

The year has seen the re-launch of Progress housewares by Ultimate, in addition to innovations across brands such as Salter and Beldray, and notable growth within discount retailers in the UK and Europe.

Simon Showman, Ultimate Products’ founder and chief executive reported:“Against a backdrop of political and economic uncertainty we have achieved record profits, negotiated favourable financing facilities and successfully re-launched a British heritage brand.” He continued:“Despite the outcome of the referendum in June, our 2017 order book is already up over 60% as the company benefits from the expansion plans of the discounters, our deepening relationships with major supermarkets and the growing popularity of online shopping.“ Right: One of the recent artistic windows at Bentalls, Kingston-upon-Thames.

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Progressive Housewares

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The calming café Bethan Gray, designer of the British themed café for Ambiente 2017 (Hall 4.1) aims to create a space that is “very calming and intriguing.” She admits: “I have been to trade shows and it is exhausting, so I want people to come in to have a look and have a break.”

Bethan’s signature style reveals a love of tactile textures and luxurious materials such as marble, wood and hand tooled leather.

Inset: A view of the striking exterior of the new John Lewis in Leeds.

Smelling the coffee at John Lewis Leeds A new concept ‘coffee education’ zone to help consumers understand how to make the perfect coffee in a machine that suits their lifestyle needs is one of the customer experiences on offer at the new John Lewis store in Leeds.

Maggie Porteous, director Shop Trade, commented: “John Lewis Leeds is our most service-led shop to date, as we look to offer our customers experiences that cannot be replicated online.”

Earlier this year, Lisa Cherry, small electrical food preparation buyer for John Lewis confirmed that the retailer is “going to become a destination for coffee lovers” (in an interview with PH’s Progressive Electrical publication).

Representing a £37m investment in the city, the 255,000 sq ft Leeds store is one of the largest John Lewis shops outside of London and anchors the Victoria Gate Development. It opened on October 20, with 2,500 people visiting in its first hour.

Below: An impression of the UK special exhibition that is being designed by Janice Kirkpatrick, featuring wallpaper designs that include the Clydesdale Horse.

TOP STORY

UK on display at Ambiente The UK will be under the spotlight as Ambiente 2017’s Partner Country (Messe Frankfurt February 10-14). The Partner Country programme includes a Special Exhibition, which is in the process of being designed by Janice Kirkpatrick, product and graphic designer and professor at the Glasgow School of Art. There will also be a special café dedicated to British design, styled by Bethan Gray, winner of the Best British Designer Award in 2013/014 (see separate story).

Janice is currently choosing housewares products to be part of the Partner Country exhibition. At a recent press conference, she revealed the concepts for her backdrops, as well as criteria for some of her product selections.

The designer acknowledges: “In this globalised world, product with provenance are anchoring and reassuring.” She also highlighted that, particularly in the current uncertain times: “One of the things we do in times of adversity is turn to classics.” She cited companies with notable history, including Arthur Price, Churchill China, Dualit, Robert Welch Designs and Portmeirion Group.

Janice has also been inspired by Britain’s reputation as “a service leader” as well as the “British tendency for orderly presentation of tableware,” with, for example, plates that are proudly displayed on walls or dressers in stately or domestic homes, as well as neatly hanging cookware and “armouries of silverware and cutlery.”

She is creating a series of rooms, which will display tableware on its walls (plus accessories such as candlesticks, placemats and coasters), while also recognising that “Kitchen tools are now used as decoration.”(See linked story, ‘Animal magic’).

• UK exhibitors will be highlighted at the show via Partner Country flags and a booklet for visitors.

• The UK is 7th among Ambiente’s exhibitor nations and 6th in visitor numbers.

Management buyout at Kitchenmonger Kitchenmonger, the cookshop founded by Denise Rogers in 1998, has been sold to Sue Hopkins, the manager of the Hungerford shop in Berkshire. Sue has been with Kitchenmonger for four years as shop manager and previously worked in the head office.

Denise commented:“We are delighted that Sue has acquired the company. She is really capable and is familiar with all aspects of the business, so she can really hit the ground running”.

Sue expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, stating:“I’m excited to take over Kitchenmonger which has been nurtured for so many years by Denise. I am so keen to build on the success of the shop – it is such a big part of the Hungerford community and there is strong support here for local business.”

Animal magic As the backdrop for each ‘room’ in the UK Partner Country special exhibition at Ambiente, Janice Kirkpatrick is designing wallpaper another typically British phenomenon. For the Above:Wallpaper design featuring White Park cattle, pattern, she has avoided any much sought after today but originating over 2000 “heraldic and nationalistic” years ago (featuring in Viking and Roman texts) and the Woad plant that since 100BC has been a source of flags or symbols but has instead, “gone back in time to blue dye used by Boudica and the Iceni tribe. look at national animals” that “transcend fiscal boundaries.”

To symbolise Scotland, Janice has selected the Clydesdale Horse, for Ireland: the Irish Wolfhound, for England: the White Park cattle, and for Wales: the Balwen Welsh Mountain Sheep. Each has a fascinating story, shaping landscapes, agriculture and industry or connecting us to ancestry across Europe The designer has also selected significant plants from each place to be incorporated in her wallpaper designs.

Circulon Ultimum on TV Circulon Ultimum from Meyer Group has been part of a fully integrated marketing campaign throughout October, including a new TV commercial showing Circulon cookware and bakeware in action and highlighting its non-stick benefits. This is in addition to its new website launch, press and social media activities. The TV advertisement showed Circulon's unique grooves, highlighted the need for minimal oil, and demonstrated the range's versatility, showing all types of food being cooked, including sauces, steak, roast potatoes, vegetables, pancake and salmon.

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Progressive Housewares

Great bake action?

According to research from Verdict, the cooking and baking market will grow £21.4m to £1.1bn this year, boosted by the popularity of The Great British Bake Off and rising competition in retailers’ offerings. Housewares retailers (including Lakeland, Harts of Stur, Wilko, Notonthehighstreet and the big four supermarkets) used the last series to inspire consumers to bake with product and recipe ideas via social media and customer emails.

Verdict analyst Andrew Hall advised retailers to make good use of online platforms to provide recipe content for those with differing skills, as well as remain competitive as price. He also cited the expansion of discounters into the market in addition to the findings that “65% of cooking and baking shoppers cited price as a driver of purchases and over half see baking as a good way to save money.”

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Left: Mum’s Choice Awards md, Michele Bates, says of Clip & Close:“Every home should have a drawer full of them.”

News

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New rates reveal winners and losers Addis’ Clip & Close is a mum’s essential The Mums Choice Awards has picked Addis’ Clip & Close food storage boxes as the ‘Best Food Cupboard Essential’ for 2016.

The range was tested and judged by a panel of UK mums.

“We are delighted to have received such a fantastic endorsement for our Clip & Close products,” commented Janine Davies, marketing manager at Addis. “They are a high quality storage staple, and we have expanded the range to ensure that they cover a really comprehensive range of needs.”

Organised by the leading parenting website, www.UKMums.tv, the Mums Choice Awards are designed to give mums a clear insight into what products in the market are favoured by their peers.

Following the Valuation Office Agency’s draft property valuations for new business rates from April 2017, Alan Hawkins, ceo of bira has expressed the association’s concerns that rates will continue to put pressure on the challenging high street environment.

The new Rating List (which marks a sudden change from valuations hitherto based on 2008 figures) broadly reveals cuts for northern retailers and hikes for those in the south.

Commenting on the changes, bira’s Alan Hawkins said:“While bira wishes those members with a substantially reduced rates bill well, it will do nothing to Above: bira’s Alan Hawkins and Lords’ Shanker Patel with Gary Gordon of Kitchen reduce the fears and pressures on those at the other end of the scale.” He Kapers, pictured at The Excellence in continued:“The government missed a trick in only helping businesses with a Housewares Awards. rateable value below £12,000 in its last budget. This has been too low to be of use to the majority of bira members.” He stated:“In their current form, rates are unsustainable and will continue to pressurise survival on the high street”.

Shanker Patel, ceo of Lords (new CHA Retailer of the Year) stated:“Lords at Home will see its rebateable value increase following the recent revision by 40% and clearly indicates that the new revision is unfairly biased towards increasing revenue from London and the Southeast and in particular the retail sector.” He continued:“A rise of this magnitude will no doubt result in consequences as the retail sector, already under low rate paying internet vendors, will have to find savings to offset such a large increase.” Shanker concluded:“Once again London and the South East are seen as the cash cows for the UK economy and government.”

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18 – 21 March Chicago, USA

Visiting the Housewares Show in Chicago is a great opportunity to look out for emerging trends and new product innovation. It’s also a great opportunity to visit the city and explore the food and cooking trends that are emerging.

Clare Sprigings, Buyer – Home Selfridges & Co

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Fruity favourites

Top Drawer’s international mix Showcasing many exclusive launches from UK and international housewares brands, Top Drawer’s Autumn/Winter edition in September reported a 20% increase in international visitors, as well as an increase in department store buyers attending the show. John Lewis, Selfridges, Marks & Spencer, Harrods, Arnott’s, Fenwick, House of Fraser, Fortnum & Mason and Brown Thomas were among the visitors.

Show director, Alejandra Campos commented:“These positive trends are indicative of Top Drawer’s enduring success and continuing evolution, confirming our market leading position as the UK’s preferred destination for international buyers, department stores and top independent retailers.”

Above: All the fun of fermenting: Mathilde Locatelli and Trends apparent at the show (identified by global trend Jennifer Macdonald of Mortier Pilon with the analysts, Stylus) included Serenity (with organic influences), attractively gift boxed fermentation jars. Invented over Clean Primary, Urban Nomads, Crafted Neutrals, Modern 2,000 years ago in China, Kombucha was called ‘tea of immortality’ because of its health benefits.

Metallics and Earth Patterns.

Among new products at Top Drawer, Mortier Pilon reflected the rising lifestyle trend for fermentation with its Kombucha Brewing Jars, along with storage bottles for the health drink, plus jars for jams and pickles, and a recipe book. The range’s contemporary styling and features such as the jar’s filter and tap valve make home fermentation less intimidating and more “accessible to the masses,” reports the company’s Jennifer Macdonald. lMatt black stoneware coffee sets by Stelton at White Brands were part of the ‘Men Only’ trail at Top Drawer (highlighting ideal gifts for men). lThe Kitchen Shop, Weybridge was the winner of Haus’ Top Drawer raffle, receiving its show order free of charge. Haus entered all retailers who placed an order at its stand over the value of £250 into its prize draw. Paul Shelley, md, said:“We wanted to reward customers for planning and investing in newness for Autumn/Winter 2016.“ Paul added:“Overall the show went well for Haus and we gained lots of positive feedback regarding our new brand Zilverstad.”

Keith and Noel’s glass act Keith Brymer Jones of Make International has produced another of his now legendary tongue-in-cheek videos, this time starring his friend, comedian Noel Fielding.

‘Nothing Compares 2 Keith’ features the arrival of Keith’s first foray into glassware (and its emotional unveiling by Noel), and includes Keith singing in the style of Sinead O’Connor.

The just-released video provided a backdrop to Make International’s stand at Above: Scene from Keith Brymer Jones’ Nothing Compares 2 Keith video starring Noel Fielding.

Top Drawer, where Keith’s new glassware range was officially launched.

Keith returned to his potter’s wheel, demonstrating at the entrance to Home at Top Drawer. The celebrity potter is also due return to TV screens as a judge in a second series of The Great Pottery Through Down.

RETAIL

STARS

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

New products from Jeray at Top Drawer prove the continuing popularity of pineapple barware. New antique gold pineapple shaped ice buckets and goblets are available from January. Jeray’s collection also includes a “tropical feel” with rum tasting glasses, recognising the drink’s current appeal in “trendy bars where there are 20 varieties,” says Jeray’s Paul Spencer.

Meanwhile, the Fruit Tier was among Top Drawer’s Spotted section for new concepts, start-ups and emerging talent. Created as “a solution to the problem of fruit going off,”

by Jeanette Moss, Fruit Tier incorporates hand turned wood (in the shape of an apple core), ceramic plates crafted in Stokeon-Trent, and stainless steel spun in the West Midlands. Jeanette points out that the striking centrepieces are “bespoke – no two are the same.”

New concept for waste Launched to UK retailers at Top Drawer, Smart Cara is a new concept in food waste disposal.

The recycling machine dehydrates and pulverises food into a powder that is a tenth of its original mass (reducing the need for food waste collection and landfill disposal).

Demonstrating the product at Top Drawer, director, Kym Ng said:“We believe our revolutionary product is the ‘missing link’ to the waste reduction eco-system.” He also showed how the machine creates dehydrated products for consumption, for example a flavoursome pumpkin tea.

Above: Smart Cara's Moira Ni and Kym Ng with their food waste disposal product.

Sponsored by

APRIL JONES, COOKSHOP MANAGER, TONY’S HANDYMAN, BIRMINGHAM “April’s been working for the family business for 17 years. She is always reliable, trustworthy, polite and positive. She is well liked by our customers as she looks after them with really good customer service. She always gives a little extra (for example, carrying an older customers’ shopping home). April is a fantastic buyer – sensitive to what we need and negotiating the best deals. She has outstanding product knowledge and she has really good relationships with reps. If a customer asks for some peculiar gadget, April knows what they are talking about and knows where to get it from even if we don’t stock it. We are really lucky to have April.” * To nominate an outstanding retail employee for PH’s Retail Star column please email joh@max-publishing.co.uk. Your nomination will also be considered for the Retail Employee of the Year in The Excellence in Housewares Awards 2017.

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News Left: Gordon Ramsay Bread Street tableware from Royal Doulton is one of the ranges on BHS.com.

TOP STORY

Sainsbury’s homewares trio BHS.com launches kitchenware The BHS name has been relaunched online with its initial focus on homewares followed up by kitchen and dining products. Brands added to the site at the end of October include Russell Hobbs and Salter in electricals, and tableware from Royal Doulton, Gordon Ramsey, Maxwell Williams and Fairmont & Main.

Earlier this year, The Al Mana Group created BHS International (UK) acquiring BHS.com, the international franchise business, and the BHS brand. David Anderson, managing director, BHS International described consumer response to the September’s launch as “fantastic.” He stated: “We’re thrilled to be able to continue to add ranges as we move toward the end of the year, with both old favourites and entirely new and exciting products.”

Following Sainsbury’s £1.4bn takeover of Home Retail (completed in September), the supermarket is opening a further 30 new digital Argos outlets in its stores by Christmas, adding to those 20 already trading. The supermarket is now the UK’s biggest retailer of non-food.

Sainsbury’s is also increasing its homewares focus with Habitat concessions in five stores. Habitat pulled out of concessions in Homebase after the group was acquired by Australian DIY chain, Bunnings earlier this year.

Mike Coupe, chief executive of Sainsbury’s commented:“This is the start of an exciting new phase for Sainsbury’s, Argos and Habitat.” He added:“Being able to shop across all three brands under one roof will make our customers’ lives even more convenient and offer them incredible choice.”

US retail savvy from the IHA

Above: Sainsbury's is developing its Argos offering in stores.

The IHA (organisers of Chicago’s IH+HS) has released a summary of key trends in the growing US housewares market (with the US and Canada accounting for 25.7% of global housewares retail sales, according to recent estimates).

Trends include ‘Living Online’ - thriving online retailers including Amazon and Wayfair and delivery options are multiplying.

Successful bricks and mortar stores are either embracing ‘Curation or Value’, offering ‘unique products in a unique environment’ or a discount proposal. Loyalty programmes have been highly significant, while the IHA acknowledges the importance of Engaging the Consumer (for example, with cooking schools and hands-on events as well as via blogs and YouTube). The association also highlights the rise of appliances for the Smart Home (see page 17).

• The IHA presents trends and inspiration to consumers (driven by products exhibited at the IH+HS) via its site, theinspiredhome.com.

::

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

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

Ben Phillips, Managing Director Steamer Trading

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News

Healthy sales for Tower RKW reported ‘overwhelming success once again' at Autumn Fair 2016 with levels of trade orders making a significant increase.

Showstoppers included the Tower Health Electric Spiralizer, All-in-One Mandoline and the launch of its Tower Vortex Air Fryer. New launches from Morphy Richards included Chroma, Accents Special Edition and Aspect.

Rob Sutton, md of RKW commented: "It’s encouraging to see new clients come on board due to the expansion of our distribution portfolio, such as our recent success with Tefal in addition to Breville and Russell Hobbs.’’

Above: Snow Queen napkin - one of Vicky Sawyer’s designs, loved by Oprah.

More of Oprah’s favourites PPD (Paper Products Design) has been celebrating its 25th anniversary year with booming sales in the US, following Oprah Winfrey’s selection of Vicki Sawyer’s PPD products in her list of Favourite Things in 2015. Vicki’s work on PPD’s paper napkins and trend mugs now extends to sets of plates.

PPD’s winter range, including new Vicki Sawyer lines, was showcased at Autumn Fair. The German based family company is known for its innovative and trendsetting high quality paper napkins.

TOP STORY

bira Collective to continue Autumn Fair organisers i2i Events has announced plans to continue the bira Contemporary Collective together with trade associations, bira and BHETA. Sarah Golden, bira’s marketing and membership director said: “Our first year in a new guise as the bira Contemporary Collective and Cafe has proved successful in connecting suppliers with retailers at Autumn Fair in an easy, welcoming format.” She continued: “We're looking forward to continuing the work with BHETA and Autumn Fair in evolving the feature to keep pace with our independent retail buyers needs.”

Will Jones, BHETA’s housewares executive Above: The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, councillor Carl Rice director added: “This is a joint initiative that the industry has recognised and is relevant for the market at this moment in time. visited the bira Contemporary Collective – pictured on Le Creuset’s stand – as part of his visit to the Autumn Fair.

From talking to BHETA members at Autumn Fair they have been pleased with the variety of visitors to the show and the orders they have written with new customers.”

Exhibitors within this year’s inaugural bira Collective included Le Creuset, Villeroy & Boch, the DRH Collection, David Mason Designs and PHA Kitchessentials. * Autumn Fair’s new Meet the Experts sessions offered retailers the chance to gem up on social media strategy, accounting and store design. The show offered 15-minute, one-to-one appointments with experts across the retail sector.

A lot of bottle at Autumn Fair A new Autumn Fair exhibitor in the augural bira Contemporary Collective, Jerry Bottles launched its “bottle for life,” which will help build wells in India and Africa.

Founders, Tobias Gould and Harun Master joined forces to create a social enterprise business, “using our margins for social good,” explained Harun. Jerry Bottles is also working with universities to replace disposable plastic water bottle use and schools to educate children about healthy drinking habits. “We run around with mild dehydration in this country, but habits are Above: Jerry Bottle founders, Harun Master and Tobias Gould at Autumn Fair. changing, as you can see by the big racks of reusable bottles in department stores,” notes Tobias.

The sale of around 100 Jerry Bottles will fund a new well, which, notes Harun provides stockists with “a great opportunity to talk to customers.” The stainless steel bottles can also be engraved, as, notes Tobias, “Personalisation is becoming increasingly significant.”

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NEWS IN BRIEF ● A recent study looking at the shopping

habits of young consumers has found that 25% of millennials turn to social media for inspiration before they commit to a purchase.

However, further research found that 74% of high street retailers do not actively use social media to engage with consumers. The research was commissioned by Maybe, a new platform that helps consumers decide what to buy. ● The recent £3m makeover at Camp Hobson in Newbury has met with customer approval. The department store – which was acquired by Morleys Stores in 2014 – has introduced new brands and opened a new restaurant to add to its customer experience. ● A Moomin mug with a Christmas motif has

been sold for the equivalent of 8240€ on the Swedish auction site tradera.com. The mug was made by Arabia in collaboration with Fazer in 2004, with only 400 manufactured. ● W hat More UK’s Wham brand is a runnerup in the UK Manufacturing Awards 2016. It was nominated for the award by Made In Britain and Still Made In Britain, organisations that each work to celebrate British manufacturing. ● MPL Home (whose brands include Bella Kitchen and Gordon Ramsay Kitchen Electricals) is launching Sensiohome, a new brand designed to provide a wide range of stylish SDAs to UK independents. MPL has teamed up exclusively with distributor, JEGS for the launch. The Sensiohome range includes Silhouettes, an affordable collection of stylish SKAs (pictured). ● South West retailer Lawsons is the subject of a new book, Lawsons: the story of a family business since 1904. The story chronicles over a decade of social change and lifestyles and spans four generations of the Lawson family. ● Dunelm reported growth in its total sales of

7.1% for the year ended July 2, driven by the opening of six new stores, with growth in its like-for-like store sales and 23.2% growth in its home delivery sales.

Below: Shelter’s Pippa Wisbey and PH’s Emma Cain packing up some of the Housewares for the Homeless donations at the end of the Exclusively shows.

News

TOP STORY

Housewares’ helping hands The latest donations from Exclusively Housewares exhibitors via PH’s Housewares for the Homeless initiative with Shelter are helping to create stable homes for families and individuals that have previously been homeless or at risk of homelessness. Many of these have little or no possessions.

After the show in June, over £6,500 worth of donated products were distributed to Shelter’s projects in Birmingham and Slough, with the help of AMPM Transportation. Now these donations are not just providing functional help, but are also boosting morale due to their high quality.

A Shelter representative from the charity’s Slough office reports on some of the homes that have recently been helped by the initiative: “We recently had a client who had three school age children and one toddler, and her ironing board had broken and so she was ironing uniforms on the floor. We were lucky enough to be able to give her a new ironing board. She was delighted and also a little overwhelmed, as she had never owned such a quality board before. Another lady recently received a mop and cleaning equipment that she was in need of. Whenever we can, we give items to match the need in consultation with our clients, but we are also able to pass on products that are considered to be luxury items, which makes our clients feel invested in.”

A massive thank you goes to all those companies that donated the hugely appreciated housewares products this year, including: Addis, Bodum, Brabantia, Curver, DKB Household, Fiskars, GreenPan, Imperial, KIS, Le Creuset, Meyer Group, Octopus Publishing Group, Pendeford Housewares, Pyrex, TS (UK) Tontarelli, simplehuman, Sistema and World Kitchen.

Below: Bryan Clover of The Rainy Day Trust in Christmas fancy dress during the fundraising Rally.

Rally raises £65K for The Rainy Day Trust A four-day banger Rally round Europe (organised by home improvement supplier, VADO) has raised in excess of £65,000 for industry charity, The Rainy Day Trust. The funds will help those that work or have worked in the housewares and home improvements industry that are struggling. Plans are now afoot for 2017 for a UK-based version of the Rally with a heritage theme, aimed at the housewares sector.

Bryan Clover, ceo of The Rainy Day Trust was among those inside the 37 cars that took part in the recent event, driving through France, Belgium, Germany, and crossing the Alps, to Italy and then finishing in Monte Carlo. He explains: “The cars had to cost less than £500 to add a bit of jeopardy.”

Bryan reports: “To make things a little more interesting, the Rally was done in fancy dress with different themes each day and challenges were set for each team to complete during the day.” The latter ranged from “arm wrestling a complete stranger, wearing one green shoe, making and wearing a swimming costume made from a carrier bag, having a stranger play a musical instrument in your car to finding and being photographed with a bronze crocodile!”

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

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

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TOP STORY

Chicago presents the Smart Home The International Home + Housewares Show (IH+HS) in Chicago (March 18-21, organised by the IHA) will feature a Smart Home Pavilion, putting the spotlight on connected and smart products. Companies (both established and startup) will be selected by a jury of industry professionals, including technology consultant, Carley Knobloch and the founder of the Smart Kitchen Summit, Mike Wolfe.

“Connectivity is being incorporated into products all around – from light bulbs to coffee brewers to thermostats to ovens – and the IHA Smart Home Pavilion will spotlight these unique products that are changing the way we interact and live,” said Phil Brandl, IHA president and ceo. Smart products will also be recognised at the Show with a new product category in the IHA Global Innovation Awards (gia). The winner of the smart home gia will be announced at the invitation-only gia gala dinner on Saturday, March 18. * The 2017 IH+HS will feature more than 2,200 exhibitors from around the globe showcasing their new products throughout five expos and 62,000 total attendees.

See www.housewares.org

Doddl gets kids cutting Doddl Cutlery has reacted to reports that increasing numbers of school children are unable to use a knife and fork. A headteacher was quoted in The Times saying,“We regularly cut up food for around 50 children who are unable to use knives and forks” Rosie Phelps, co-founder of Doddl Cutlery, recognises that busy working parents “too often take the perceived quick option of cutting up a child’s food for them or feeding them finger food, which prevents little ones getting the necessary practice they need to develop the skills of cutting up their own food, so they can eat independently.” She adds:“Compounding the issue is the fact that the existing traditional range of kids’ cutlery is not usually good enough for the job – with even adults struggling to cut anything with an ineffective knife.” Rosie urges parents to empower their children with independent eating skills.

Doddl’s toddler cutlery includes an innovative knife that is ergonomically designed to develop the pincer grip and fine motor skills children need when using full size knives and forks.

Above: View of the IH+HS 2016.

Left: Doddl’s cutlery is designed to help toddlers eat independently.

PIC 26

Housewares’ influencers US trade magazine, Homeworld Business has included Patrick Schneider, International Innovation Company’s president and ceo (pictured), and Fiskars’ Ulrik Garde Due, president of Fiskars Living (tabletop division) in its Annual Players of people to watch in the housewares industry over the next 12 months. The list also includes Anne Willis, now president of Whitford Corporation, and Jennifer Dalquist, Nordic Ware’s director of sales and marketing.

Charles Vancin’s Wooden Spoon award Charles Viancin has announced two more of its Retailers of the Month awards. New retailer (owned by mother and daughter partnership, Lindsey and Zoe Vincent), The Wooden Spoon Cookshop in Leek is the Midlands winner. Sales agent Geraldine Finnan selected the shop as, “With no retail experience, they have done a great deal of research to get where they are now. They are also very active on all social media.”

Angela Elliot (who has returned to the industry as sales agent for Charles Viancin, covering Scotland) selected The Gretna Green Foodhall as Scotland’s winner. While praising the shop’s enthusiastic staff, Angela explained: “The foodhall specialises in local produce and houses a cookshop. Its customer base is primarily tourists, who love CV products because they are light weight and portable to transport home.”

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Changing times New hub of support The new bira website launched in October featuring news and information, including the latest legislation, hot topics like business rates, and inspiration on best practices at bira.co.uk.

National president of bira, Vin Vara, of London housewares stockist and DIY mini-chain, Toolshop commented: "The new website is a big step forward, moving the association into the next era and better servicing our modern membership.” He added: “From a member’s perspective it looks good and now the wealth of independent retail specific knowledge, stats, guidance, special offers, services, ideas and events is all available in one place, easy to find, easy to navigate and easy to share.”

Sarah Golden, marketing and membership director for bira highlighted: “The site's fresh photographic style features the people who matter most to us - our members, so I must say a special thanks to those who've agreed to participate. This visual identity will carry through to our new print publications also launching this month.”

With a mobile-first strategy, the site features enhanced content, easy navigation and improved functionality. The new members’ area features information about bira services, and members can now update their membership details online and make payments for membership renewals and events. The previously separate sites for bira direct, bira bank and various associations within the group are all incorporated in the new site.

Meanwhile, the bira Knowledge Hub provides easily accessible case studies, blogs and short how-to guides and fact sheets.

Confidence holds up among CHA retailers in survey More than 60% of bira members remain very confident or reasonably confident about business despite the challenges of a difficult and unpredictable year, according to responses to the bira Wages Survey 2016.

Some 13% of cookshop and housewares retailers claimed to be “very confident”, with further 50% reasonably so.

However, the introduction of the National Minimum Wage is a major factor for many businesses, with 58% of retailers across the bira survey revealing they had to raise their salary levels to comply with the new legislation.

Alan Hawkins, ceo of bira, commented:“Considering the prevailing economic conditions, the disappointing weather for many parts of the country and the confusion of the Brexit situation, there are plenty of encouraging signs that independent retailers are maintaining their relevance and attractiveness to consumers.” * The bira Wages Survey is compiled annually in conjunction with pay and benefits specialist Croner Reward. The full report - a 24-page booklet packed with statistics relating to staff pay, benefits, recruitment and retention – is sent free to participating members.

The booklet is available to others at £50 +VAT from Sarah Arnesen at bira. For details on how to participate in future bira Wages Surveys, please contact sarah.arnesen@bira.co.uk

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In my speech at the Excellence in Housewares Awards, cohosted by the CHA, I spoke about change and how it has become commonplace for retailers. We change channel, we diversify, we develop, we merge, we grow but we never stand still and our trade association certainly isn’t either.

The team at bira have created a new magazine for its members, a new office is in development and the new Above: Chris Lynn-Thomas of Kooks Unlimited, Richmond and CHA chairman website bira.co.uk is up and running. These new with bira’s Kate Godber, PH’s Jo Howard and bira’s Sarah Golden at the Excellence developments are placing retailers front and centre, in Housewares Awards night, co-hosted just where we are supposed to be! The lovely

by PH and the CHA. Below right: CHA retailers at the recent Rachna and Rita from Lords, who just won CHA Excellence in Housewares Awards Retailer of the Year at the awards, currently feature included Sandra and Trevor Clarke of on the new homepage as well as a number of Retro Cookshop, Deal (right) and Gemma Ollerenshaw of Art of Living, pictured other retailers. Go take a look! with Henry Thomson of Joseph Joseph.

Not all change is for the better though and many retailers, particularly those in London, are facing potential hikes of 14% on their business rates in the new Rating List for 2017. This will undoubtedly add pressure to thousands of retailers and ultimately put some out of business. I know bira’s campaigning committee are working hard to tackle this so let’s hope the government is listening.

They say ‘change is as good as a rest’ so as we go into our busiest period of the year, I wish you all well in any changes you are making this season, whether it is a new supplier, a new range or even just a new window display. bira always likes to hear from you so please make sure you share your photos or news with bira on Twitter @biraofficial and on Facebook /British Independent Retailers Association. We can learn so much from each other.

Chris Lynn-Thomas, CHA chairman

Smiling about staff Some 85% of retailers were found to be happier about their employees than anything else in their businesses. This was just one of the findings from bira’s Retail Happiness campaign in which the trade association asked retailers to share what was making them happy, inspired, confused or angry about the industry at Autumn Fair.

Not surprisingly the biggest area of concern for retailers was business rates, with 70% saying they were Above: Alan Hawkins, ceo ‘angry’ about them, closely followed by tax returns and out of bira, talking to a of town shopping. participant in bira’s Retail bira’s activity at Autumn Fair also included a seminar called Happiness campaign at Autumn Fair.

Let’s Talk Retail, with two independent retailers coming together to discuss key trends, challenges and opportunities with an inspiring Q&A session on the future of independent retail (hosted by bira’s head of marketing and events, Sarah Arnesen). Jill Carver from Added Ingredients – which combines cookshop, deli and café – talked alongside Kevin Bellwood from Roobarb Retail. While Kevin focuses on digital and ecommerce and the differences in understandling customers online and in-store, Jill talked about her out of hours events and approach to personal customer service.

Both Jill and Kevin spoken highly of the benefits of being a bira member, the savings this brings to their business and the benefits of being part of a wider community of likeminded retailers.

Right: Below: bira’s Let’s Talk Retail seminar at Autumn Fair.

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JLP headlines November forum Anna Berry, head of Cook and Dine for John Lewis will provide insights into the leading department store’s future strategic direction when she addresses delegates at the BHETA Networking Forum on November 15 (at Federation House, Vyse Street, Birmingham). Anna will present her initial assessment of the housewares market following her move from Health and Beauty and highlight opportunities for suppliers.

The forum will also feature analysis on what the housewares market might look like in post-Brexit Britain, with forecasts from Richard Butler, regional director of the CBI (Confederation of British Industry). Richard’s presentation will also include the wider perspective on the issues that face UK PLC based on an overview of the CBI’s 90,000 members.

Moreover, Glynn Jones Above: A ‘pasta night’ merchandising story at John Lewis. The from the Bank of England agency for the West retailer’s Anna Berry is talking to BHETA members about Midlands and Oxfordshire will be updating BHETA developments in the Cook and Dine category.

Right: Caroline Rowell will be sharing her extensive members on the Bank’s view of the UK economy experience of housewares retailing with suppliers. following the vote to leave the EU, its forecast of the economic impact and opportunities likely to come, plus any policy responses both underway and taking shape.

The forum’s highlights also include Phil Pond from trend forecasting company Scarlet Opus, who will be reprising his extremely popular presentation on design, material, colour and style trends for 2017 (which was first delivered to a packed house at Exclusively Housewares in conjunction with the BHETA-sponsored trend trail).

The final speaker will be Caroline Rowell (of Invicta Retail Consultancy) who has spent over 20 years in the housewares industry working in various buying roles with, for example, House of Fraser and Fenwick. Caroline will present her ideas on how suppliers can best take a product from its original conception to its landing in a retail environment. This includes the physical presentation of the product, the communication of its benefits to the consumer, packaging style, content and product pricing.

BHETA’s housewares sector director, Will Jones commented, “Yet again we have a packed agenda with top class speakers and unique insights and opportunities. Not to mention some very valuable networking. I’m anticipating a very good turnout.”

• Applications to attend the forum should be made to dc@bheta.co.uk or the Member Services team on 0121 237 1130 as soon as possible.

Fragrant additions to membership ABS Pottery and United Candles are the latest housewares companies to join BHETA. ABS Pottery Imports is a specialist supplier to the trade of authentic, high quality, terracotta cookware and kitchen accessories, sourced from Europe. Established in 1989, ABS Pottery is now one of the largest importers of terracotta in the UK. United Candles is the brainchild of md, Dennis Embleton, and financial director, Roz Collins, who are importing scented candles in partnership with US manufacturer, Langley Empire Candles. The company’s range reflects seasonal and lifestyle trends.

BHETA’s housewares sector director, Will Jones commented, “The variety of brand, categories, channels and routes to market which BHETA now represents is quite staggering. This makes for some very valuable networking, a really wide selection of market insights and an ever more credible representation to our retail partners.”

Below: The venue for the Morrisons’ meet the Buyer event.

Forum at the stadium Some 250 delegates from the DIY, garden and housewares sectors are set to attend the BHETA Networking Forum at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry (home to Premiership Rugby team Wasps and Coventry City Football Club) on November 3.

Bunnings UK and Ireland’s managing director, PJ Davis is the lead speaker, making the first public presentation of the UK Bunnings’ business since its acquisition of Homebase earlier this year.

Bunnings is Australia's largest household hardware chain.

Morrisons’ Cookshop delights Morrisons’ first Meet the Buyer event with BHETA (on October 6 near Morrisons’ head office in Bradford) “ticked every box,” said Chris Stott, the supermarket’s head of home. Chis elaborated: “It was great to give so many suppliers the opportunity to get a meeting with the Morrisons’ buying team.”

Currently in the process of reviewing Morrisons’ overall home offer, Chris reported: “There was no shortage of innovation and products that fit within our strategic direction – some really good stuff – especially in Cookshop.”

Nine Morrisons buyers were at the event including those covering table top, cookshop SDAs, food storage, preparation and gadgets as well as bakeware, plus home maintenance and outdoor living.

The retailer’s aim was to engage with new or existing suppliers (large and small) that are able to propose innovative core range listing opportunities, offer ‘branded’ and exclusive quality products and ranges with a point of difference, or offer immediate outstanding promotional opportunities.

Chris Stott highlighted: “The suppliers that stood out were the ones that were very focused on their product offering and how to demonstrate it in terms of how it would help Morrisons.” He reflected: “It was good to spend the day being a buyer and seeing a good selection of new opportunities. It is now down to the suppliers and us to work together to realise the opportunities presented.” Participating suppliers were allocated a 20-minute appointment with a template for the ideal presentation.

BHETA’s housewares director, Will Jones commented, “This was an excellent day that highlighted a number of genuine trading opportunities for BHETA members. It was very rewarding to see suppliers interacting so positively with buyers from a major grocery retailer and equally rewarding to see buyers responding so enthusiastically to product demonstrations.”

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Food for thought

Festive kick-off PH ASKED INDEPENDENTS: • How are you tackling this year’s Black Friday (November 25)?

• What are your strategies to prompt consumers to buy early for Christmas?

• How are suppliers helping?

Black Friday: new buying habits David Conduit, buyer for Harts of Stur, winner of the Excellence in Direct Retailing Award: Tackling Black Friday? “Black Friday now represents the real start of the Christmas mass rush. There used to be a gradual build up from mid-September, reaching peak around early December, but savvy customers now wait to see what deals the market will provide, especially for online sales.

A lot of our effort is focused on making sure our infrastructure is ready for the huge influx of orders. Our stock has to be right, as does our offering, our warehousing and distribution. It also has to be marketed well; costs can spiral as all the top retailers try to get noticed, and not being found is suicide.

Get it wrong, and it can spell disaster for the whole Christmas sales programme.

In-store, the pressures are different, but just as intense. Overdoing the price-cutting will sabotage any subsequent trade, and the shop can and will be turned upside down.

Over all this is the importance of margin.

Early forays for us into Black Friday demonstrated how easy it is to sacrifice margin for a quick sale. By cutting retail

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prices too deeply on high profile brands, you put unnecessary pressure on the warehouse and distribution, selling no more products over the longer period, but reducing average margins just when we should be cashing in! More recent events have seen us focusing on striking the right balance, seeking genuine brand clearances, and using the influx of shop and website customers to clear obsolete stock-lines, thus not affecting margin in the longer term.

In summary, Black Friday sees a huge sales boost, but is overall an imperfect answer to seasonal sales management.”

Early Christmas buying? “Our Christmas drive starts in earnest in September. We promote very heavily around a local event, the Cheese Festival, where we start to engage our customers with ideas and inspiration. We then have an industry leading programme of high profile print advertising in the top BBC titles, starting in October, and peaking in the November Christmas special editions, bringing added value offers and

The whistle has blown for Christmas trading. But how important is Black Friday for independent housewares retailers?

And, with savvy consumers delaying Christmas spending, how can early buying be encouraged?

Left: Harts of Stur started inspiring consumers for Christmas entertaining with its sponsorship of the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival’s Mouse Trap Theatre, pictured.

brand inspiration to the millions of readers. These are heavily promoting gifting, entertaining and cooking, and we work very closely with our suppliers to carry the correct message, while ensuring we have a 'call-to-action' message for the consumer.”

Suppliers’ help? “Largely, Christmas trading trends and offers have been decided long in advance. We all get to see this at events like Exclusively, but suppliers’ plans that are shared months in advance with the Nationals should be shared with independents as well. Spreading Christmas promos over a longer period would also help spread the sales. If customers know they are getting the same deal in October as they will in December, they will be happier to spread their financial burden across a longer period, buying earlier. Many suppliers focus their promotions on the last few weeks of Christmas, adding to the mistrust of the consumer on the best time to buy. This is a vital period in all retailers’ trading calendar; with a little thought from all parties, it could be a more profitable, less stressful, and longer peak period for all of us.”

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Food for thought Differentiating offers Martin Elliott, chief executive of Home Hardware (the largest voluntary organisation of its kind in the UK for independent hardware retailers whose 400 members include housewares stockists and cookshops):

Tackling Black Friday? “Black Friday is not a significant part of our promotional calendar although we do offer approximately 50 products to our retailers at exceptional savings so that they can pass these offers onto consumers. Retailers who participate in this promotion would usually run them from the Friday for seven days. It is also a useful method of clearing popular end of promotion lines where we have limited residual stock. We provide members with relevant point of sale material.”

Early Christmas buying? “We encourage consumers to buy early, so that they have greater choice, which is why we distribute our consumer advertising brochures to 1.4million Above: Home homes from week Hardwares’ Cookshop commencing November Catalogue encourages early Christmas 7. Our Cookshop buying.

Catalogue, which is distributed to over 300,000 homes in October, also generates a considerable amount of additional business. Our 24 page Magic of Christmas Catalogue helps increase sales in this important sector, although a high proportion of this business would be in the three weeks running up to Christmas.”

Suppliers’ help? “The current exchange rate issues have limited the support suppliers can give. We have received more Black Friday offers in previous years but this year has been much quieter since the Brexit vote. Outside of the Electrical and Electronic markets the uptake by consumers has been mixed. The key thing suppliers can do is to differentiate offers between different areas of retail so that we are not all pushing the same product and an inevitable reduction in the price point. This is easier said than done but with a WIGIG promotion should be achievable.”

Autumn inspiration Liz Lawson, managing director of Lawsons, with four ‘home and living stores’ in Devon: Tackling Black Friday? “A couple of years ago we made a big effort with Black Friday posters, advertising and a big section of discounts, but it did not work for us. It was not worth it for one weekend.

This November, like last year, we will have some token Black Friday offers with point of sale in store, so we didn’t miss out if customers come in looking for some deals. However, we already have some big offers in place or planned for the run up to Christmas, so it is a case of labeling some of these for Black Friday.

Like many, I am not keen on Black Friday generally as a fixture in the retail calendar as it takes away from Above: The cover of November spending.”

Lawons’ Christmas Early Christmas buying? “We are sending out 120,000 Christmas leaflet featuring ‘star leaflets after the October Half Term holiday to encourage early buys’ and vouchers for use in November. shopping, and this year we are including money off vouchers to spend in November. We have also started a programme of emailing our best customers, speaking to them directly, which is perhaps more effective than blanket advertising.

However, with massive competition from the internet, realistically it is the last 10 days to Christmas (when consumers stop buying online) that are critical for us, and if you don’t have the stock you miss out. So suppliers like DKB with 48 hour turnaround systems are vital.

Falling on the Sunday, Christmas Day is perfectly timed this year, but still we need decent weather to encourage shoppers to come to stores (rather than last year’s series of storms) – something we can’t influence!”

Community action Vicky Woolston, director, The Kitchen Shop, Lichfield (who was interviewed

by BBC Midlands news last year as an independent retailer that was running Black Friday offers)

Tackling Black Friday? “We feel we have to take part in Black Friday and we get some customer enquiries about it, although fewer last year.

However, the deals we offered weren’t what we sold on the day last year! We were busy, but shoppers seemed to head for Lichfield (with many independents) to avoid potential Black Friday crowds.

Cookshop doesn't really lend itself to Black Friday discounts in the same way as electronics or fashion that want to sell off older technology or last season.

Also, the Kitchen Shop is all about quality and we never buy in ‘tat’ for a sale. However, we will run a few suppliers’ offers for Black Friday, and what doesn’t sell will reappear in our small January sale.”

Early Christmas buying? “We put in new offers during the four weeks running up to Christmas and we extend our usual returns policy of 14 days to 28 days to cover gifts.

We are also linking up with as many community activities as possible to encourage footfall, for example with popcorn maker demonstrations during the town’s Christmas lights ‘switch on’. We are on the calendar of the Lichfield Christmas Wreath Trail – on our day, we will make homemade biscuits to give out as well as cups of Nespresso coffee for shoppers. We are also doing tastings and gadget demonstrations during a weekend mini food festival and the Christmas Fair, and we hope to be involved in Lichfield Cathedral resident artist’s light shows on the outside of local buildings.”

Below: Proactive in the community - the Kitchen Shop team pictured waiting for a recent parade celebrating DMS Whittington being awarded the freedom of the city of Lichfield.

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Come to the International Show with us!

Come to the International Home & Housewares Show with the only officially endorsed agent in the UK, being the preferred travel partner for the organisers, IHA. For the 16th year running we are pleased to offer you some great flight rates out of the UK to Chicago as well as specially negotiated rates at the Show hotels in Chicago.

Our fares on direct flights from London Heathrow start at only £565.00 return in economy class.

We are also able to offer fares in premium economy or business class. Please let us know and we will be pleased to give you a quote.

Our hotel rates offer you a great saving

compared to the hotels’ own cheapest rates.

We are able to offer you rooms at most hotels in Chicago, subject to availability.

We will be pleased to recommend some to you or if you have a favourite please let us know and we will be happy to let you have the availability and prices.

Contact us now by phone or email and book your preferred flights and hotels. We look forward to hearing from you and making your reservations.

Contact Paul at paul@exposetravel.uk or Zoe at zoe@exposetravel.uk or call us on +44 (0)1883 349576 or via our website www.exposetravel.uk

18 Croydon Road, Caterham Surrey CR3 6QB Tel: +44 (0)1883 349576 www.exposetravel.uk

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SHOPTALK Guest columnists: Claire Noye and Donna Johnston of Ruby & Scarlet, Felixstowe

Below: Donna and Claire inside the bright and airy interior of Ruby & Scarlet.

A sparkling debut I

t’s been exhilarating, exhausting and very rewarding! Our shop, Ruby & Scarlet is celebrating its first year in the trade as winner of the Excellence in Housewares’ Most Promising Newcomer Award, and we are really optimistic about the future. We were also nominated for New Business of the Year in the Suffolk Coastal Business & Community Awards, which goes to show that we are getting noticed.

It all started 12 years ago when we were both working for the Hong Kong-based Hutchison Ports group and became friends. We had both reached the point in our careers where we felt we wanted to ‘give our all’ to a personal project, rather than working for someone else. Moreover, Claire had spent some time in America over the years, and kept coming home from trips with photos of the gorgeous cookware stores and various kitchen gadgets stuffed in her suitcase.

Over the last three years or so, we have been going to the bigger trade fairs in the UK - under the guise of ‘girly weekends away’ if any of our work colleagues asked what we were up to! In this way we developed a fairly good base knowledge of suppliers and products.

Having continued to talk about setting-up our own venture, for what seem liked forever, late in 2014 we made the decision we had to ‘do it’ the following year. So, as a result, 2015 was frantic.

We both went from working in offices to suddenly doing 12+ hours a day manual labour to get the shop ready - it was a real shock to the system. We worked 65 days straight getting the shop ready prior to opening and it was a real labour of love.

Then, because we opened in early November, we almost instantly went into seven days a week trading for the Christmas rush. It was exhilarating, and we were delighted as the response we received locally was overwhelmingly positive. We very much wanted to be different to the usual cookware stores – creating a light, airy space which anyone can move around with ease.

We have also worked hard to be part of the local community. For example, we have participated in events such as ‘the Christmas light switch on’, where we had a stand as part of

We opened Ruby & Scarlet in Felixstowe on 5 November last year. Perhaps that was good timing, as, like Fireworks Night, our first year in business has gone with a bang!

the festive street market and in the shop we served free hot spiced apple juice, which we made ourselves in slow cookers to create a Christmas atmosphere. Ruby & Scarlet was also a category sponsor in the Suffolk Food and Drink Awards. It is vital that we were involved with the Food and Drink Awards. Suffolk is renowned for its good food and the success of the food and drink sector goes hand-in-hand with the success of our business.

We have also had chocolate tasting instore with the local award winning company Pump Street Bakery, which we stock. On carnival day we entered in to the Rio spirit and popped our own popcorn, again from one of the store’s suppliers, Zaramamas, which we gave away to shoppers and to participants in the carnival procession. Inside there was steel drum music playing instore.

More recently, avid bakers Claire and Amber (who works for us) baked cakes and scones so the shop could take part in the Macmillan Coffee

Morning. We took the coffee morning out to the shoppers and had a stand outside where we sold our freshly baked produce. We had linked in with other traders such as M&S and the event was a real success and created a buzzing atmosphere in the town, as well as making money for such a worthy cause.

We are also part of a newly formed town centre retail group, which is bringing retailers together to work as a group to attract more visitors to the town. It’s a really prosperous time to be in Felixstowe: the pier is currently being refurbished, the promenade and award winning gardens have already been refurbished, new businesses are opening up, and the business community is working closely together to promote the town. It’s an exciting time and we are extremely pleased to be part of it.

We have had a really promising start in our first year, and we look to the future with excitement as the town flourishes and Ruby & Scarlet continues to grow.

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Excellence in Housewares 2016

Over 400 housewares stars celebrated the announcement of The Excellence in Housewareas Awards winners at a Bollywood themed extravaganza on October 5.

PH presents some of the photos of the night’s celebrations.

Bollywood night

Above: Dhol players welcomed guest as they arrived at the Excellence in Housewares Awards reception.

Top: The jubilant winners on stage with Awards host, BBC Radio Asia and BBC TV presenter, Tommy Sandhu and PH’s Emma Cain and Jo Howard.

Left: Rachna Dewan of Lords with bira president Vin Vara and his wife, Anu at the champagne reception.

Above left: Lauren and Dale Siddle of Sands Cookshop with Lorraine and Jeremy Horwood of Horwood and Helen Shaw of Fenwick Leicester.

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Excellence in Housewares 2016

Right: Aimee Hodgkins, creative director of Creative Tops with Matthew Canwell, md of Kitchen Craft.

Above left: KSPARK dancers headed up by global Bollywood fusion dance sensation, Karan Pangali, joined by Groupe SEB’s Graham Goldsmith and Ian Watkinson.

Left: Dunelm’s Mark Fitzgerald, Emma Tanner, Craig Wardle and Lucinda Gilbert, with Brabantia’s David Slater and Dale Hamman and Claire Barton of Dunelm.

Right: Besides coveted Goody Bags, the Awards’ table settings included Portobello by Inspire Mugs by Ultimate Products and Fiskars scissors in celebration of the product’s 50th anniversary, as well as bottles from Imperial and Whitford and illuminated menus, which were held aloft for the Higher Lower game.

Right: Pam Plant, Clarion Events and DKB’s Nick Cornwell raise their glasses, with Vitamix’s expertly mixed healthier cocktail creations.

Above: Imperial’s Dario Galoppi, Darran Foster, Paula Colebourn, and Andrew Lindsay and Karen Sobers of Shop Direct with Zak Bham of Imperial.

Left: Keeping the beat at the awards reception.

Right: Lakeland’s Philippa Simons, Lisa Meth-Cohn and Samm Swain with dance sensation, Karan Pangali.

Above: Ultimate Products sponsored the pre-Awards drinks reception, which featured musical entertainment from sitar, santoor and tablar players. Simon Showman, ceo pictured centre, plus Adrian Bloomfield from Sainsbury's and Robert Dyas' Jo Redfern and Rachel Brain with Ultimate Products' Duncan Singleton, Ehsan Moazzezi, Duncan Loch, Jenny Stewart, Eddie Edwards, Cheryl Ward, Katie Maxwell and Catherine Tonks.

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Excellence in Housewares 2016

Above: Wilton’s Sonia Gray, Hobbycraft’s David Westman, Keval Dodhia of Sugarshack with Wilton’s Claire Shaw, Matthew Wilson, Jeremy Taylor and James Sheldon.

Right: Impressionist Anil Desai brought various celebrities to the Excellence in Housewares stage!

Top right: Philippa White of Debenhams with GreenPan’s Seema Grantham, Zouhair Yahia, Meeta Patel, Selfridges’ Merran Mills, Selfridges and Matt Sampson and Laura Davenhall of GreenPan. Right: Vitamix’s Martin Devaney (right), cocktail maestro, Katarina Kordikova and Daniel Warrillow sample the Vitamix cocktails.

Above: The wine is chilled – what are we waiting for?

Below: Dexam’s Caroline Holford joins Eddington’s Adam Smith, Richard Walker and Roger Murphy.

Left: Prep Cookshop’s Sonia Taohid and Holly West sample some popcorn from the Smart Worldwide Popcorn cart at the champagne reception.

Bottom left: Receiving his prize envelope from Fiskars’ Sarah Large, lucky guest, David Westman of Hobbycraft was the name pulled out of the hat to win an overnight relaxing spa break courtesy of Fiskars, in celebration of its scissor’s 50th anniversary next year. The special draw followed the serving up of sweet dishes complete with sparklers as part of the celebration.

Below: Karan Pangali and KSPARK gave a memorable performance.

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Excellence in Housewares 2016

Top left: The men in black are: i2i Events Group’s (Spring Fair) Luke Murphy, Phil Boas and David Westbrooke with Satish Jethwa of TVS and Barry Freeder of Hit Products.

Top right: Tesco’s Michael Horne, Sophie Terry, Robin Young, Sara Twigg and Martha Ferguson with Groupe SEB’s Simon Oliver.

Right: Dr Sam Atiia and the Smart Worldwide team at the champagne reception.

Right: The winner of the Bollywood themed Higher or Lower game, Helen Shaw of Fenwick Leicester with her prize of a magnum of champagne and a meal for two at the London Lancaster’s Nipa Restaurant, presented by sponsors, Andy Reynolds of Whitford and Dario Galoppi of Imperial.

Left: Tim Shattock of Jarrold with Le Creuset’s Jane Mason, Philippa Howarth and Becky Harte, and Angela Kennedy and Richard Paulson of Morley’s Group.

Bottom left: Meyer Group’s Laura Starkie with Bodum’s Louise Hickling.

Bottom right: Robert Dyas’ Priti Merchant with BHETA president, Roger Morgan-Grenville of Dexam.

Below: With the awards night illuminanted menus: Jeff and Sandra Baker of Connect Distribution with Jeff Moody of bira direct with wife, Joanne.

Inset: John Lewis' Lauren Smith, Gary Watson, Alex Smith, Aaron Christopher and Rebecca Hunt.

Want to see more?

The full gallery of Excellence in Housewares Awards 2016 photos can be found at: www.theexcellencein housewaresawards.co.uk

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

Retail Employee of the Year 2016

Criteria: Nominations were sought for retail employees who make a difference with their enthusiastic, attentive and knowledgeable service (and who could be considered ‘the unsung heroes’ of the shop floor or customer services team.)

Winner

Stephen Amis cookshop team leader, Jarrold, Norwich

Left: Tim Shattock, trading manager for Jarrold accepts the award on behalf of Stephen Amis from category sponsor Brabantia’s national account manager, Dale Hamman.

Right: Stephen in proud posession of the winning trophy.

Initial Reaction: “I was very proud and pleased to hear Stephen’s name announced on the evening and honoured to accept the award for Stephen who has offered our customers such exceptional service over the years.”

Tim Shattock, Retail Trading Manager, Jarrold

CATEGORY SPONSOR

Most Promising Newcomer Winner

Ruby & Scarlet Felixstowe

Initial Reaction: “Claire had taken her shoes off to sit back in comfort and watch the awards and when our name was read out I couldn't move and Claire was looking for her shoes and we panicked because the host said we had to run to the stage!”

Donna Johnston, joint owner, Ruby & Scarlet

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Criteria: Nominees had to be a new cookshop or housewares business (not including new branches of cookshops), which had opened or started up over the past three years (ie since 1 July 2013). A retailer that has already won Most Promising Newcomer cannot win a second time.

Right: Donna Johnston (second left) and Claire Noye, owners of Ruby & Scarlet recieve their award for Most Promising Newcomer from category sponsor OXO’s associate marketing director, Tracy Carroll.

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

Excellence in Direct Retailing

Criteria: Nominees had to be retailers of housewares that use one or more non-‘bricks and mortar’ channels as a highly significant or primary route to its consumers. Retail channels may be internet, catalogue, TV or a combination of these.

Winner

Harts of Stur

Above: Dr Sam Attia, chairman of category sponsor SMART Worldwide, presents the award for Excellence in Direct retailing to Harts of Stur’s joint directors, Philip and Graham Hart (second right and centre) and buyer, David Conduit (far left).

Right: Philip and Graham purposely hold the trophy and enjoy the night’s win.

Initial Reaction: “When we heard our name read out as winner of the Excellence in Direct Retailing Award, our initial reaction was ‘Wow, we’ve done it again!’ It was an immensely proud moment to accept the award on behalf of a small but extremely dedicated team. To be chosen above such high-calibre finalists was indeed, the icing on the cake.”

Philip Hart, joint director, Harts of Stur.

CATEGORY SPONSOR

Excellence in Retail Training Criteria: This award is for a retailer’s approach to training for its team.

This can be an on-going training programme or specific training initiative that has been instigated (or been particularly significant) in the last year.

Winner

Steamer Trading

Above right: Fiona Webb, Steamer Trading’s senior buyer, accepts the award for Excellence in Retail Training from category sponsor Wilton Brands International’s general manager Europe, Matthew Wilson.

Initial Reaction: “I was absolutely thrilled to pick up this Award on behalf of Nick O’Mahony and all the fantastic store staff at Steamer Trading” Fiona Webb, senior buyer, Steamer Trading

Left: Fiona proudly poses for her winner’s photo.

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

Excellence in Retail Display (independent)

Criteria: Nominees had to be an independent retailer. Window and/or in-store displays which are either specific to one product range or of a more generic nature which demonstrate originality and maximise visual impact.

Below left: Mark Baumann (far left), sales director, category sponsor, Meyer Group, presents the award to Borough Kitchen’s Simone Hillman and founders, Justin Kowbel (second left) and David Caldana (second right). *Borough Kitchen was also announced as UK gia winner (see news).

Below right: Justin and David beam with Pride at winning the awatd for Excellence in Retail Display (Independent).

Winner

Borough Kitchen Borough Market, Hampstead and Chiswick

Initial Reaction: “A huge thanks to our supplier partners — our team is excited to win the Excellence in Retail Display (Independent) award and already working hard to bring even more creativity and change to our stores.”

Justin Kowbel and David Caldana, founders, Borough Kitchen

CATEGORY SPONSOR

Excellence in Retail Display (multiple or department store)

Winner

Barkers Home North Allerton

Criteria: Nominees had to be a multiple retailer, a department store chain or independent department store. Window and/or in-store displays, which are either specific to one product range or of a more generic nature, which demonstrate originality and maximise visual impact.

Initial Reaction: “Totally shocked but extremely happy to hear our name. I had a huge smile on my face for the rest of the fabulous evening.”

Julie Poynton, homewares buyer, Barkers Home

Right: Julie Poynton, homewares buyer for Barker’s Home is joined on stage by homewares floor supervisor, Becci King (second right), directors Guy Barker (third left) and Ian Barker (second left) to receiev the award from Will Yates, Groupe SEB’s UK and Ireland sales director.

Left: Julie and Becci celebrate Barkers Home win with grins all round.

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Excellence in Retail Initiative

Criteria: This award is for a single recent initiative to promote the sale of housewares products and/or raise the profile of the retailer and foster customer loyalty (from any housewares retailer, whether independent or multiple).

Winner

Leekes For its Privilege Card

Left: Amanda Reed, buying controller for Leekes accpets the award for Excellence in Retail Initiative from category sponsor DKB Household’s managing director, Nick Cornwell.

Right: Amanda savours the win and proudly holds her winners trophy.

Initial Reaction: “I can’t tell you how thrilled we were to finally win an award after around 10 years of nominations and not winning. We couldn’t quite believe it when we were called out and my initiall reaction was: Really? Us? Yes- at last!”

Amanda Reed, buying controller, Leekes

Excellence in Non-Specialist Multiple Retailing

CATEGORY SPONSOR

Criteria: Nominees had to have in excess of four stores, and stock housewares as part of their selection of goods. This includes supermarkets, home improvement stores, garden centres, home furnishing stores and general stores (but does not include department stores). The award is for excellence across the retail spectrum including product range, marketing and promotion, display and (if relevant) multi-channel retailing. Achievement in improving sales, profitability and/or footfall over the last year.

Winner Dunelm

Above right: Andrew Shand, vp international sales for category sponsor Camelbak presents the trophy to Dunelm’s head of buying, Mark Fitzgerald.

Left: Mark proudly holds his winning trophy.

Initial Reaction: “Come On! As winning the award genuinely means a great deal to the fantastic Kitchen team, myself and the business.”

Mark Fitzgerald, head of buying, Dunelm

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

Excellence in Specialist Retailing (multiples and large independents) Criteria: Nominees had to be a specialist retailer (other than a department store chain) with three stores plus an online store, or four or more stores. They should have demonstrated excellence in areas across the retail spectrum including: product range, product knowledge, staff training, customer care, marketing and promotion, display and (if relevant) multichannel retailing. Achievement in improving sales, profitability and/or footfall.

Winner Lakeland

Initial Reaction: “What an honour to receive such a prestigious award. It’s great to be recognised by our peers and suppliers and is much appreciated throughout the business. Thank you for a fabulous evening!

Samm Swain, merchandising manager, Lakeland

Left: Veronica Davidson (far left), Lisa Meth-Cohn (second left), Philippa Simons (second right) and Samm Swain (far right) receieve the award from Israel Quintana, UK and Ireland sales manager for category sponsor, KitchenAid. Right: A happy Veronica and Samm celebrate their big win.

CATEGORY SPONSOR

Best Department Store (Independent) Winner Barnitts York

Initial Reaction: “Stunned! It was a shame my late father wasn't there to accept the award as well, as he built up the business over 55 years. He would have been very proud. It is very nice to be recognised by the industry.”

Paul Thompson, managing director, Barnitts

Far right: Paul Thompson, managing director, Barnitts, receives the award for Best Department Store (Independent) from Alan Hawkins,, ceo of category sponsor, bira.

Right: Paul and his winning trophy.

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Criteria: Nominees had to be an individual independent department store or branch of a small group of up to three stores. Excellence in areas across the retail spectrum, including: product range, product knowledge, staff training, customer care, marketing and promotion, display and (if relevant) multi-channel retailing.

Achievement in improving sales, profitability and/or footfall.

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

Best Department Store Multiple Branch or Group Member Criteria: Nominees had to be a specific branch of a department store chain or group of above three stores (including members of the Fenwick Group). Nominees had to demonstrate excellence in areas across the retail spectrum, including: product range, product knowledge, staff training, customer care, marketing and promotion, display and (if relevant) multi-channel retailing over the last year. Achievement in improving sales, profitability and/or footfall were also considerations.

Winner Fenwick Colchester

Left: Dan Roberts, head of UK sales, Joseph Joseph (far right) presents the award to Fenwick Colchester’s Dean Hawes, buyer(second right) and md Carl Milton.

Initial Reaction: “Wow, I had to check with the person I was sitting next to, am I right , did they just say Fenwick Colchester?”

Dean Hawes, buyer, Fenwick Colchester

Right: Richard and Carl share a moment in the spotlight with the coveted trophy.

CATEGORY SPONSOR

CHA Retailer of the Year Criteria:: Nominees had to be current independent CHA members. Excellence in areas across the retail spectrum should have been demonstrated including: product range, product knowledge, staff training, customer care, marketing and promotion and display (and - if relevant - multi-channel retailing) over the last year.

Winner Lords Right: Jane Mason (far left), head of sales for category sponsor Le Creuset, presents the CHA Retailer of the Year award to Lord’s brand director, director of product and founding sisters, Rita (second left) and Rachna Dewan.

Left: Rachna makes her way to the stage to receive the award with sister Rita.

Initial Reaction: “We are truly honoured to be recognised for this award. We are thrilled to have been nominated as part of this category for retail excellence and it is only with the support of a brilliant team that we are able to bring our vision alive. Thank you CHA. We are truly thrilled!”

Rita Dewan, brand director, Lords

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

Excellence in Cookware Criteria: All cookware and bakeware products in metals, glass, ceramic, silicone, plastic or any other material, which were launched at UK retail or modified between June 2015 and June 2016.

Left: Jeff Moody, managing director of category sponsor, bira direct presents the award for Excellence in Cookware to Joseph Joseph’s head of UK sales, Daniel Roberts.

Below right: Daniel is a proud winner.

Winner M-Cuisine

from Joseph Joseph

Initial Reaction: “it was fantastic to hear we had won, it’s a new category for Joseph Joseph so really means a lot to us!”

Daniel Roberts, head of UK sales, Joseph Joseph

CATEGORY SPONSOR

Top Tool or Gadget Award Criteria: Any gadget, tool, utensil or range of the same - whether practical, aesthetic or fun (includes mills), which were launched at UK retail or modified between June 2015 and June 2016.

Winner Healthy Eating Collection from Kitchen Craft

Initial Reaction: “Oh my god, the competition in this category was excellent, so I am absolutely thrilled to collect the award. We knew the range was strong based on sell out. It makes our planned additions for Spring 2017 even more exciting” Emma Lewis-Jones, senior buyer and product developer, Kitchen Craft

Right: Sarah Golden, marketing and membership director at bira and CHA executive secretary presents the trophy to Kitchen Craft’s senior buyer and product developer, Emma Lewis-Jones.

Left: Emma is all smiles as she displays her trophy.

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

Plugged-In Award Criteria: All products which have an electrical plug and whose use is concerned with the processing of food/drink or the carrying out of household tasks, and were launched or modified between June 2015 and June 2016.

Winner Fast Slow Pro from Sage

Far left: Simon Boyd, Exclusively Housewares and Electrical Show director presents the Plugged In award to Mark Adams, sales and marketing manager, Sage Left: Mark with his trophy.

Initial Reaction: “IWhen the winner was announced my reaction was "wow brilliant! this is fantastic new, this product in particular deserves it. Great to see it getting recognised in the industry.”

Mark Adams, sales and marketing manager, Sage

CATEGORY SPONSOR

Cutting Edge Award Criteria: All knives, scissors, cutting equipment, allied storage items, chopping boards and sharpeners, which were launched at UK retail or modified between June 2015 and June 2016.

Winner AnySharp Pro

from Aydya (distributed

by Eddingtons)

Right: Nick Davison, portfolio director for Spring Fair presents the trophy to Richard Walker, commercial director of Eddingtons, UK distributor for Aydya.

Below: Eddingtons’ Roger Murphy, Richard Walker and Adam Smith celebrate.

Initial Reaction: “There was a real tense moment as the nominees were read out in the Cutting Edge category, I felt a knot in my stomach! I was absolutely delighted when the AnySharp Pro was announced as the winner, the knot turned to a feeling of elation. I felt it was a worthy winner as this item has really cut its teeth, no pun intended, with great sales throughout the independent channel and the award marked a just acknowledgement of the hard work our guys on the road have put in to establish the AnySharp Brand in the marketplace.”

Richard Walker, commercial director, Eddingtons

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

Excellence in Homewares Criteria: Kitchenware products not covered in other categories that assist in preparation of food and drink, such as storage containers, scales, measuring equipment and household products that assist in cleaning, laundry, utility storage and waste disposal, which were launched at UK retail or modified between June 2015 and June 2016.

Left: Marcus Findlay from the IHA’s UK office, Plimco, presents the trophy to DKB’s marketing director, Grant Race.

Below right: Grant celebrates DKB’s win with Rachel O’Neil, national account manager and Pete Nash, field sales force manager.

Winner Zyliss Fresh Storage from DKB

Initial Reaction: “Fantastic. The team will be delighted.

It made our evening.”

Grant Race, marketing director, DKB

CATEGORY SPONSOR

Top of The Table Winner Masterclass Artesà

Criteria: All tableware, glassware, tabletop accessories, serveware and tabletop textile products, which were launched at UK retail or modified between June 2015 and June 2016.

from Kitchen Craft Far right Nicolette Naumann, vice president Ambiente presents the Top of The Table award to Kitchen Craft’s senior buyer and product developer, Emma Lewis-Jones.

Below: Emma smiles for the camera clutching the all important trophy.

Initial Reaction: “I think I was in a state of shock when the winners were announced and was just on auto pilot going onto the stage. Thank you to everyone.”

Emma Lewis-Jones, senior buyer and product developer, Kitchen Craft

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

The Innovation in Product Award Criteria: A new innovative product or any innovation that demonstrates improved functionality to an existing product. The innovation must be launched between June 2015 and June 2016.

Winner OXO Good Grips Greensaver Produce Keepers from OXO

Far left: Ian Rudge, development director for category sponsor Home at Top Drawer, presents the award to OXO’s associate marketing director, Tracy Carroll.

Right: Tracy shares the excitement of winning the award with her guests.

Initial Reaction: “Delighted to be the winner of this prestigious award.”

Tracy Carroll, associate marketing director, OXO

CATEGORY SPONSOR

Icon Award Criteria: Classic housewares products that have withstood the test of time. Products can only win this award once, after which they join the Icon Gallery. Previous winners of this Award are the Dualit toaster, the Ceramic Pestle and Mortar, the traditional Cafetière, the Pyrex Jug, the KitchenAid mixer, the TG Green Cornish Blue Dreadnought Jug, Le Creuset Cocotte, the Kenwood Chef, the Mason Cash mixing bowl, the Krisk Bean Slicer, Emma Bridgewater Half Pint Mug, the Magimix Food Processor, the Chichester Carving Tray, the Tala Conical Measuring Jug, the Bialetti Moka Espresso Stovetop and Kilner Jars from Rayware.

Winner Orange Handled Scissors from Fiskars

Above right: Tim Joslin, sales director of category sponsor Salter (left) and Alex Wright, buying assistant for John Lewis (right) present the Icon award to Fiskar’s national account manager, Mark Follett.

Right: Mark proudly poses with his trophy.

Initial Reaction: “My first reaction was how fitting it was to win the Icon award as we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the scissors……and then to get to the stage as quickly as possible so I didn’t get any heckling from Tommy!”

Mark Follett, national account manager, Fiskars

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

Supplier Awards Criteria: To arrive at the finalists (and winners) for these three awards, PH sent out 1,000 nomination forms to housewares retailers asking them to state which housewares suppliers they feel are the tops when it comes to marketing, innovation and service.

Excellence in Marketing Award Winner l

The Rayware Group

Right: Will Jones, BHETA homewares director, presents the winning Supplier Award trophy for Excellence in Marketing to Rayware’s national account manager, Chris Johnson.

Initial Reaction: “I was delighted we won the Excellence in Marketing award and that we got the recognition for everyone’s hard work. It was also an honour to receive it on behalf of our Marketing team!”

Chris Johnson, national account manager, The Rayware Group.

Excellence in Innovation Award Winner l

OXO

Right: Will Jones, homewares director of category sponsor BHETA, presents the Supplier award for Excellence in Innovation to OXO’s associate sales director, David Titterington and associate marketing director, Tracy Carroll.

Initial Reaction: “Absolutely ecstatic to be the winner of this award. It’s the ultimate award that a brand can win!.”

Tracy Carroll, associate marketing director, OXO

Excellence in Service Award Winner l

Kitchen Craft

Right: Will Jones, homewares director of category sponsor BHETA (far left), presents the Supplier award for Excellence in Service to Kitchen Craft’s head of UK operations, Tony Elliot (second left) and sales director, Richard Plant.

Initial Reaction: “I think the awards have gained in stature over the years and so to be a consistent winner of the service award is both hugely gratifying but also totally daunting. The relief when we were announced as winners was enormous. Each year we try our best to win, constantly trying to improve and we take it tremendously personally with everyone in the whole company waiting to hear the good or bad news. We strive for this each year, so to say we are delighted is an understatement.”

Richard Plant, sales director, Kitchen Craft

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CATEGORY SPONSOR

Honorary Achievement Criteria: This very special award was presented to an individual who has contributed greatly to the UK housewares industry. Nominations were invited from across the industry.

Winner

Above: Richard Plant, sales director, Kitchen Craft presents the prestigious Honorary Achievement award to this year’s winner, Jeremy Horwood, sales director, Horwood.

Below: Jeremy takes his place at the lecturn to give a few words about what it means to him to win this award (see news).

Initial Reaction: “The award was totally unexpected and I felt very humble to be in the same company as some of the Housewares ‘Greats’. I also felt very proud to be stepping down after 40 years to have won such an iconic accolade.”

Jeremy Horwood, sales director, Horwood

l Jeremy Horwood In her speech before the announcement of the winner’s name, PH editor, Jo Howard said: "Over four decades of commitment to our sector, the recipient of tonight’s award has helped to shape today’s housewares industry.

Taking custodianship of a long-established family company that once catered for the needs of the Victorians, this person’s flare for business has turned what used to be primarily a wholesale business into one of our major retail suppliers. A supplier that chimes with multiples as well as safeguarding strong relationships with independents. A supplier that is thoroughly well respected for service as well as for its commitment to bringing new bestsellers to market each year that command good margins for stockists.

This person’s understanding of the power of brands has been paramount to the forging and growth of well loved and trusted consumer brands. In fact, over the decades these brands have built up the market for stainless steel kitchenware itself, helping to make this material both aspirational and an integral part of modern kitchens. This growth and influence on our kitchens has not just been confined to the UK, but to many export markets around the world.

Our winner has been integral to the evolution of a business that has adapted to changing trading conditions and expectations of retailers and consumers. Moreover, this individual has overseen prudent changes in ownership.

Despite the millions of products on retailers’ shelves globally that bear the names of this company’s brands, our honorary achievement recipient is not someone that seeks the limelight.

So tonight we are shining the spotlight on a person who commands huge respect from industry peers and, after 40 years of commitment to the housewares industry, is thoroughly well liked by retailers, longstanding employees and his competitors.

In fact, our winner will be sorely missed when he stands down from his role in the imminent future, but will leave a housewares legacy that will continue. "

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Market focus

A cut above Inset: Kuhn Rikon’s Colori Titanium comes in a full set in Graphite (chef’s, bread, santoku, utility, serrated utility, serrated paring and paring knife), all with a safety sheath for safe storage.

It’s a gift At this summer’s Exclusively shows, trend forecaster, Scarlett Opus highlighted the “hushed, calm colours” of Richardson Sheffield’s Fusion Knife Block and knives from Amefa on its trend-spotting tours and packed seminar. According to Scarlett Opus, the Fusion block, with its soft wood and pale hues, fits the evolving trend for ‘Privacy’ –a calm, personal space. This is, of course, a reflection on how knives and knives storage have transcended function to become part of the interior design of the hallowed sanctum of the kitchen.

Trend trackers, Scarlett Opus also selected the Rose Gold paring knife from Kuhn Rikon’s new Colori Titanium range at Exclusively Housewares, highlighting both the colour and texture of the knife.

The range’s shimmering (and highly giftable) paring knifes include silver, green,

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Below left: Brooklyn Stone knives from Taylors Eye Witness will be launched for 2017. In addition to this launch, the company will also focus on highlighting its Sheffield made knives, which have an increasingly “competitive advantage” as a result of the depreciation of the pound, notes Taylors Eye Witness md, Alastair Fisher.

Looks, performance, and innovative features – the current knives market has got it all. PH gets dicing and slicing in order to investigate the latest news and trends in the cutting edge market for knives and their accessories.

blue and purple.

Marrying distinctive looks with functionality, Kuhn Rikon’s sales and marketing associate, Natalie Godfrey highlights that, “the Titanium coating gives not only great colour, but also maintains the sharpness of the blade for longer.”

Meanwhile, Taylors Eye Witness is keeping a close eye on fashion. Its current bestsellers includes the Brooklyn knives

with copper bolsters and black blades, but next Spring Fair and Ambiente will see the launch of the new Brooklyn Stone palette.

Alistair Fisher, md points out, “There is a growing trend to buy knives as a gift, or as a gift to self in order to freshen up the look of a kitchen.” He highlights demand for, “Good quality and affordable sets, particularly in shops, where consumers are more likely to buy there and then.”

Sophie Newton, marketing coordinator for Grunwerg, also acknowledges the importance of gifting for high-end knives.

She states: “As an iconic brand, Global knives are an aspirational gift, particularly as there are more young professionals who are ‘foodies’ and enjoy cooking at home and host dinner parties rather than going out.” Hence the popularity of the new Global carving set with a board as well as new block sets (not surprisingly, mentioned on pages 54-55 in this issue’s What’s Cooking for Christmas?)

When it comes to gift sets, the needs of a budding generation of home cooks and

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Market focus Right: Groovetech's patent pending continuous groove blade allows for airflow between the surface of the blade and food. Retailers can benefit from videos that show consumers the benefits of the knives.

The perfect surface Grunwerg launched a new brand of chopping blocks at Top Drawer: Rockingham Forest (recognising that, for over 70 years, the company has been located on Rockingham Street in the heart of Sheffield). The new high quality boards include acacia, ash, maple woods and “complement our professional and upmarket ranges of kitchen knives,” says Grunwerg’s Sophie Newton.

This year’s Excellence in Housewares Awards’ Cutting Edge finalists included the ultimate meat carving board, the Architec Rectangular Concave Board from PHA Kitchessentials, and the beautifully gift boxed Sophie Conran Beech Cutting Boards.

Left: One of Grunwerg’s Rockingham Forest chopping boards.

foodies have not been forgotten. Kuhn Rikon’s Kinderkitchen Dog knives have had a revamp for 2016 and now come in three piece sets aimed at boys and girls (with a blue or pink serrated knife, green or purple straight knife – both resembling dogs - and white duck snippers). Kuhn Rikon's Natalie Godfrey recognises that: “They make perfect gifts for budding little chefs! The blades are sharp enough to cut through soft fruits, vegetables and herbs but not little fingers!” She elaborates: “The dogs’ ears act as a hand guard to keep little fingers away from the blade.

The duck snippers come with a sheath for safe storage.” Natalie adds: “It’s been proven, encouraging children to take an interest in cooking sets them up for a healthier lifestyle in the future!”

On the edge This year’s Cutting Edge Award finalists in The Excellence in Housewares Awards featured two handy sized knife sharpeners: the Wüsthof Pocket Knife Sharpener and the Cutting Edge winner, AnySharp Pro from Aydya. Yusuf Okhai, managing director of Aydya explains that there are “several aspects of this sharpener that make it special.” Firstly, “Safety and versatility – the patented suction cup holds the sharpener in place, so your hands are nowhere near the blade.” Secondly, “Simplicity – There is very little in the way of knowledge required, and very little instruction as AnySharp has one slot, one action, and one very consistent result.”

Thirdly, “Functionality, as AnySharp does not use traditional grinding wheels but has

a tungsten carbide tooling set-up that allows the sharpener to be used on many more items, like serrated blades and very long blades.” However, Yusuf also highlights the “style” factor, stating proudly: “We took sharpening from the workshop to the granite or marble kitchen worktop.” He observes that: “For too long, sharpeners have been considered ‘engineering’ or ‘tools’,” adding: “We see it differently, and we make our sharpeners in nine colours: pastels, deep and bright colours and the original brushed steel.”

In Yusuf’s view there is plenty of growth in the UK market for sharpeners, “partly because people are used to knife sharpeners that simply don’t work, and have become passive and disillusioned about them,” but also because of the need for consumer education. The message to consumers from retailers (ideally positioning sharpeners alongside knives displays) should be: “Knives last longer with a sharpener, so add it to your knife purchase and save,” states Yusuf.

The Cutting Edge Award finalists also featured Dexam’s innovative Groovetech knives, which were developed in Germany when a kitchenware designer asked the question: “Could there be a knife that can cut cheese smoothly without it sticking to the blade?” reports Dexam’s marketing manager, Caroline Holford.

Caroline continues: “The designer wondered if it would be possible to make a

knife which was constructed with sharpness and hardness of material, but also combined the physical principles and air mechanics.” Eventually a new type of knife was created by, “applying an innovative technique onto the stainless steel.” Caroline explains: “Most non-stick knives apply chemical coatings to create a non-stick function. However, with Groovetech technology, the non-stick function is revolutionised through simple physical principles, with a unique wave design on the blade which creates more air flow when cutting.” She concludes: “By reducing the contact area between food and blade (only one fifth of the blade surface is in contact with food), Groovetech has made a magnificent naturally non-stick knife.”

Below: As well as numerous colour options, the AnySharp Pro boosts longevity, coming with a ten year warranty. “Under normal conditions, we estimate this to be 10,000 operations, or three light strokes a day, which will resharpen a knife easily,” explains Aydya’s Yusuf Okhai.

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Market focus

Over a million Signature sales Signature knives from Robert Welch Designs recently celebrated a million knives sales. Rupert Welch, managing director, reflects: “In 2005, we set out to design the best knives in the world. We started by rigorously questioning function, manufacture, durability and ease of use and asked ourselves how we could create a range of beautiful, functional and timeless products.” He continues: “It took some three years to perfect the designs and ensure each knife was perfectly balanced. Reaching one million sales is validation from our customers that we have achieved exactly what we set out to do.”

The Signature range has won multiple Cutting Edge Awards in the Excellence in Housewares Awards and been among the Awards finalists every year since launching, including this year for the Signature Oak Knives Block Set. The range’s global acclaim includes the Good Design Awards in Chicago and the IF Product Design Awards in Hannover, Germany. Signature knives have also been “consistently rated in the top 1% of all branded kitchen knives” when independently tested for initial sharpness and edge retention by CATRA, the Cutlery and Allied Trades Research Association, notes Robert Welch Designs’ marketing coordinator, Lee Cox. Lee observes: “With the ever increasing popularity of cookery shows and the accessibility of previously little known cuisines and ingredients; the budding home chef is willing to invest in good quality equipment for a domestic setting.” She adds: “The Santoku knife range is a good example of this: a lot of consumers are buying into the idea of healthy Asian cuisine and want the correct knife to reproduce the precisely sliced ingredients.”

The chef’s dream comes true Next year is set to be a blockbuster for IO Shen. In the summer, the company will launch its second design under the title, ‘Knives by Chefs for Chefs’. The new ‘MSH Ryobi’ has been designed in collaboration with the acclaimed Daniel Clifford of the two Michelin starred Midsummer House.

IO Shen’s Natalie McViegh reports: “Daniel has been searching and searching for a particular knife style but was unable to find it – so he contacted me and asked if he could be involved in the design process.” She describes Daniel’s design as: “nothing short of ground-breaking - a 20cm chef/filleting knife hybrid with the 6cm towards the heel having serrations.”

Natalie explains: “The thought process Inset: Daniel Clifford has designed his dream knife with IO Shen, to be available in summer 2017.

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behind the design was that it could be used as a prep knife and an ‘in service’ knife. The heel serrations are incredible and were designed to be able to crunch through fish head or bones without having to pick up a cleaver.” She continues: “However, the application doesn’t stop with fish. My chef testers have been using it on poultry and meat, and I have used it to shave palm sugar. It’s incredible!”

Natalie anticipates that the new knife will make a big impact on professional and aspirational kitchens: “These are destined for the hands of chefs and the passionate foodie - precisely the sort of person who goes into their local passionate Cookshop for advice and the best tools of the trade.” She adds: “IO Shen knives take six months to make, due to the hand-crafted nature of their manufacturing, but every blade is worth the wait!”

What is more, in reaction to BBQ food trends, IO Shen is due to launch six other new knives in 2017, including two brisket knives, a slicing and carving knife, a butcher’s scimitar (designed by butcher Iain Devine) and a new style boning knife.

Natalie acknowledges: “There is a massive wave in the UK into the BBQ food movement, with a dedicated online magazine and various Facebook forums with a growing number of followers.”

She reveals some of the details of the new BBQ knives: “The scimitar incorporates both Japanese and European angles to cope with slicing of raw meat and splitting bones. The BBQ experts who

Above: The Signature Oak Knives Block Set was another Excellence in Housewares Awards Cutting Edge finalist this year. The anatomy of a Robert Welch Signature knife is unique - made from a single piece of fully forged German 1.4116 stainless steel, the steel runs from blade tip to the handle head to ensure maximum strength, durability and balance. The blade edge is hand-applied to a Japanese-style 15° angle on both sides for razor sharpness and edge retention.

have helped me with the design of the brisket knives couldn’t decide which was best – serrated or flat edge, so I have bought out both. The slicing knife (the Suraisu Slicer) was designed by chef Wayne Sullivan and the boning knife is the second knife designed by Karim Maoui (designer of the Maoui Deba) and will be the boning knife to end all boning knives!”

Safe storage Horwood extended its range of Judge and Stellar magnetic knife racks earlier this year, with a super strong magnetic option.

Marketing manager, James Robinson acknowledges: “We have found an increase in demand for variable storage - there is nothing more frustrating when you buy a replacement knife and it does not quite fit in your knife block – but there is also a trend for knives to be purchased individually and across variable ranges and brands.” Hence magnetic knife racks “enable consumers to gradually build their collection, and not have to spend a lot in one hit.”

Moreover, James adds: “Magnetic knife racks can be stored on the back of a cupboard door and therefore helps free up precious worktop space. This also helps keep sharp knives out of young hands.”

Ultimate Products is also mindful of knives safety with its new lockable knives blocks in both Salter and Progress brands. These blocks lock their contents individually, as Ultimate Products’ trading director, Duncan Loch emphasies: “When you are preparing food, the knives you aren’t using stay locked safely in the block.”

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Taking knife design to a whole new and personal level, 2 Michelin starred chef and Masterchef judge / host Daniel Clifford from Midsummer House, Cambridge has been collaborating with I.O.Shen on an extraordinary new knife. The MSH Ryoba has been designed with a dual edge, primarily with fish preparation in mind, however the applications for this knife are far-reaching. Available 2017 to I.O.Shen stockists only.

I.O.Shen Web: www.ioshen.co.uk

What do you get when two of the best names in cookware join forces? In this case, some of the best quality knives around. Their Carbon Chrome-Molybdenum full tang blades are second to none, with a Rockwell C Hardness rating of 56-58; while their classically-styled black handles have been shaped for the ultimate comfort and performance. The collection comprises twenty-two of the finest chef’s blades on the market, the Sabatier Stellar collection will deliver a lifetime of kitchen service.

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

CUTTING EDGE

Due to the growth in the popularity of the colourful Wusthof Pick Up Paring Knives, Wusthof has produced this new counter display.

The holder can contain up to 144 mix-and-match kitchen knives from the Pick Up Paring knife range, maximising instore Point of Sale purchases.

The range includes the following knives: peeling, paring x two, serrated and pizza/steak.

Haus Tel: 01782 572910 Web: www.inthehaus.co.uk

The Epicurean signature cutting boards have earned their place in the heart of the kitchen, meeting the highest standards of cooks and chefs worldwide. These wood fibre-cutting boards come in a range of shapes, sizes and colours and is the go-to board for any cutting job in the kitchen - big or small. With a natural look and texture from an eco-friendly, organic, wood fibre composite, these boards are super durable, nonporous, knife friendly and dishwasher safe. This is the perfect everyday board for hygienic food preparation and easy cleanup.

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

Introducing the new premium five-piece and sevenpiece Knife Sets from KitchenAid. The German 4116 high-carbon steel (Thyssen-Krupps) is a high grade, high alloy steel that is stain and corrosion resistant. The ice-tempered stainless steel blades stay sharper for longer and the ergonomically triple-riveted handles are the perfect weight. The block has been crafted to reflect the iconic design of the original Stand Mixer head.

Blocks are available separately with paring Knife. Also new are four-piece and six-piece Steak Knife Sets.

Beam Group Tel: 01954 231616 Web: www.kitchenaid.co.uk

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AnySharp Pro The World’s Best Knife Sharpener With a PowerGrip suction cup for safer, hands free use.

Why choose the AnySharp Pro? Save your old knives, make cutting easy again!

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Lasting polymer guiding top that is softer than metal, and therefore won’t damage the metal edge

Works with all your knives even serrated blades!

AnySharp is pre-set at 20 degrees to give a perfect edge every time

PowerGrip suction cup base, attaches securely to any smooth surface or worktop

Comes with a performance guarantee for the operational lifetime of the product

AnySharp can be easily tidied away in a drawer, cupboard, or tool box when not needed

Available in a range of vibrant colours

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t | 01488 686572 e | sales@eddingtons.co.uk w | www.edddingtons.co.uk

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The new Microplane Master Series is a premium collection of five graters – zester, fine, coarse, ribbon and extra coarse – all with an elegant walnut handle. Expertly engineered, the photo-etched blades, made in the USA, are ultra sharp to deliver a superior grating experience. The blades benefit from a sturdy, heavy-duty stainless steel frame. The oiled walnut handle is comfortable to hold and has a distinctive look, which every passionate home cook will want to own.

Microplane Tel: 01204 778594 E-mail: rharper@microplaneintl.com

CUTTING EDGE

The Carvery range by Eddingtons delivers a high quality selection of essential roasting tools to help you make the perfect roast at home. The range features a durable stainless steel carving tool with sharp prongs that slide securely into your meat allowing you to carve and serve. To compliment this, the range includes two and three-piece carving sets together with the new XL Roast and Carvery Lifters. Completing the range is the Roasting Tray, Pro Baster and Flavour Injector, VShaped Roasting Rack, Gravy Separator and Cooking Twine.

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

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Mugs DPS_Grid 19/10/2016 12:55 Page 1

Market focus

Whether arty, humorous, design led or classic, outsized or espresso, mugs and cups make magnificent gifts and magnetic impulse purchases. PH muses over trends and developments.

A mugs game?

Inset: Sophie Conran’s 10 mugs for her 10th anniversary with Portmeirion Group.

M

ugs are, of course, far more than functional vessels. As Sara Dickenson, Portmeirion Group’s marketing communications manager observes: “People develop emotional attachments to mugs.” She elaborates: “From the first sip of coffee at work to hugging a mug on a cold winter’s evening, a mug plays a significant role in our lives so the trend for something unique yet comforting, and something that reflects our individual style never changes.”

Portmeirion celebrated this year’s 10th anniversary year of working with designer, Sophie Conran by bringing out a range of mugs, including a large striped tankard, which, Sara highlights, “was described by a leading interiors journalist as ‘the world’s most stylish man mug’.” Sara also reports that Portmeirion’s Royal Worcester fine bone china mugs bearing “the staggeringly popular watercolour illustrations from Wrendale Designs” (first

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launched in 2013) have become one of the group’s global bestsellers.

As Wrendale’s success goes to show, loveable animals continue to be key to a great many mug designs. Burgon & Ball recently extended its collection of mugs with a new range depicting characterful pets (including ‘Plucky the chicken’ and ‘The Rabble’ of dogs) that match its awardwinning Creatureware storage tins. Burgon & Ball’s head of sales, Ruth Posey notes: “The warm nature of the images makes you smile.”

Meanwhile, wild woodland animals is a continuing trend and was a strong theme on Creative Tops’ stand at Autumn Fair as well as in evidence in new ranges such as Sophie Allport’s Highland stag (see ‘Sophie’s choice’ breakout). Laura Brown,

Sophie’s choice Designer, Sophie Allport of Sophie Allport reflects on what makes a good mug: “Whether I’m sipping from a mug over breakfast, enjoying an ‘elevenses’ mug of something at my desk or curling up with a brew on the sofa, I tend to find mugs works their way into almost every aspect of my day!”

She emphasises: “When it comes to drinking from mugs, it has to be fine bone china. I really think tea, coffee, hot chocolate (whatever your tipple!) tastes so much better from a china mug. In terms of practicality, a mug has to be dishwasher and microwave safe but most importantly it has to look lovely.”

Sophie continues: “My favourite mug design changes regularly but I love our new range of ‘Highland Stag’ mugs. I was inspired by these magnificent animals on the school run. My three boys and I often see them in the countryside around Stamford in Lincolnshire. They’re so beautiful I just wanted to paint them!”

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Market focus

Coffee and cake culture “Our espresso sets have outsold mugs over the last 18 months,” states Nicky Sloan, managing and creative director at Cubic. She elaborates: “The traditional tea party has changed to coffee and cake, and we are seeing the Australian coffee culture here, with demand for very specific sized cups and mugs. Coffee is huge and so is the rise of ‘coffee snobs’ who want 2oz espresso cups.”

Striking new designs of espresso cups and mugs in Cubic’s Curios Collection are the result of a collaboration with The Wellcome Collection – “the huge library of historic botanical and natural history books collected by the Victorian philanthropist, Henry Wellcome, along with medical artefacts,” explains Nicky.

As a vegan company, Cubic is also proud to have “developed an innovative new clay that mimics bone china,” states Nicky.

from Creative Tops’ marketing and communication team, acknowledges that it is important to “choose creatures with personality,” and the “Into The Wild animals have charm and natural quirks: the splendid stag, the eccentric pheasant and the crafty fox.” The range also appeals to those that love the autumnal countryside, with colours that evoke “an escape to the great outdoors, taking a walk through a forest coated in a carpet of golden leaves,” according to Laura. She also points out that the collection’s new set of stackable mugs is a “useful concept for the contemporary consumer who desires space-saving homewares.” Its gift appeal is “reinforced by the luxury and rustic tube packaging.”

The right packaging can be a big draw for gift hunters, as David Hubszer, sourcing manager at Churchill China highlights: “Our innovative gift boxes are a key element in the success of our At Your Leisure range,” which, for example, includes greenhouse and garden shed shaped boxes for its ‘Lady Gardener’ and ‘Head Gardener’ mugs.

The presentation of a particular greeting

Right: Into the Wild stackable mugs from Creative Tops.

Below: Espresso cups, mugs and teaware from Cubic’s Curios Collection.

or personal expression can be another factor in a gift purchase. New additions to Gary Birks’ new letter mugs include F for Fabulous and W for Wingman. The Keith Brymer Jones range from Make International now includes ‘Birthday girl’, and ‘Cat lover’ as well as mugs sets for ‘His and His’ and ‘Hers and Hers,’ as alternative options to the bestselling ‘His and Hers’ and ‘Mr and Mrs’. popular elephant shaped teapot, cream jug Meanwhile, the enduringly popular Quips and sugar bowl. Ultimate Products has also and Quotes range by Fairmont & Main has introduced mugs which feature extended its humorous one-liners, as the electroplated metallic. company’s director, Glynis Harrison notes, Artisan styling continues to be strong in “There is always a market for something interiors, reflected by the popularity of that makes you smile.” Humorous Fairmont & Main’s Vie Naturelle stoneware highlights include: ‘I’m still hot but now it mugs, with “an organic hand thrown look comes in flushes.’ that does not look mass produced, crackle The means to lift the spirit can also be glaze and organic shaped plates for pictorial, for example with ECP nibbles,” highlights Inset: Harlequin Savanna mugs Designs’ bestselling Ahoy range Fairmont & Main’s Glynis and teaware from Churchill China. by artist, Jill White’s with, Harrison. observes ECP’s John Collett, its The trend for retro with “quirky” seaside imagery with a twist is evident in ECP “lots of character.”

Design’s new Scandinavian geometric A handle on trends style Skane mugs, “an Exotic animals are a growing updated version of 50s trend, according to David retro interior design,” notes Hubszer at Churchill China. Its ECP’s John Collett.

Savanna mugs and teaware Meanwhile, enamel mugs depicting elephants are a are an ever-growing bestseller in its Harlequin category for Gifts Republic, licensed designs. which has recently extended its portfolio A bit of bling is “working well” according with a new licence for Matt Sewell’s bird to John Curtis at DRH Collection, which designs. Bestselling Ecology enamel mugs showed its BIA electroplated gold and include garden birds, fish and “surprisingly, platinum mugs at Autumn Fair. These mushrooms and insects,” notes the coordinate with the brand’s increasingly company’s Mark Long.

Reviving a colour story A precursor to Pantone, The British Colour Council’s historic colour palettes and names have been revived in copious glorious shades by Designed in Colour with a new range of mugs.

Co-founder, Victoria Whitbread explained: “The British Colour Council (BCC) was originally an industry standards organisation, active from the 1930s to the 1950s, which produced indexes of named colours for use by government, industry, and academia.” Displaying the 1930s original colour dictionaries of BCC wools and ribbons on the Designed in Colour stand at Top Drawer, Victoria highlighted that, rather than comprising just numbers, the “more consumer friendly” index contains, “lots of horticultural and animal names such as Kingfisher and Hydrangea Pink.”

Co-founder, Jackie Piper added: “A lot of these colours have a vintage look because they were created from natural methods and have been around for hundreds of years.”

Victoria and Jackie aim to create a new lease of life for the colour index, beyond their own mugs and other tableware. Victoria reported: “We scanning and digitising the colours, as we want people to use them.” Their project was featured in a recent article in The Telegraph entitled, ‘Rainbow warriors: meet the women reviving the British Colour Standard.”

Inset: Designed in Colour’s Jackie Piper (left) and Victoria Whitbread with the British Colour Council dictionaries and their new mugs at Top Drawer.

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Mugs and Cups p48_v8_Mugs & Cups p48 24/10/2016 14:44 Page 48

Mugs &Cups Pictured is the new range of Double Walled Glassware from Judge. Available in eight useful and attractive varieties, the new collection employs a thermally insulated ‘air pocket’ design to create the ultimate drinking experience. Hot drinks remain hotter for longer, while the outside of the glass remains cool to the touch. Cold drinks can be as icy as ever you wish, and yet the outer glass will stay condensation-free. Made from scratch-resistant borosilicate glass, and carefully crafted for a comfortable lip, each vessel is individually mouth-blown by artisan glassmakers meaning that every single item in the range is unique.

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

The Thermic range from Western House (pictured) comes under the Luigi Bormioli range. Each Thermic cup is hand made in double wall borosilicate glass designed to keep the drink inside warmer for longer. A perfect gift for coffee lovers everywhere.

Western House Tel: 01256 462341 Web: www.western-house.com

Developed by leading UK based fashion retailer Monsoon and iconic tableware brand, Denby, Monsoon Gifting features a selection of the bestselling designs from the exclusive Monsoon Home Collection by Denby. Presented in newly designed matching gift boxes the sets range from a Single Mug and Coaster to an Afternoon Tea Set all available in four of Monsoon’s most popular patterns: ‘Cosmic’, ‘Lucille Gold’, ‘Filigree Silver’ and ‘Kyoto’.

Denby Tel: 01773 740715 E-mail: julie.whittingham@denby.co.uk Web: www.denby.co.uk

Pictured is The Steel Rooms Collection - a striking range of fine bone china mugs, exclusive to Fairmont & Main, featuring designs from The Steel Rooms Design Studios.

Featuring beautiful designs created by Julie Steel, each mug design is innovatively individual and a work of art in its own right. A selection of stylized animals, some in subtle natural tones, others in zesty vibrant shades form the subject matter, with each design contrasting beautifully against the crisp fine bone china backdrop.

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

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Give your beverages an extra touch of elegance with the new Limited Edition Metallic Pet Mugs from Cambridge. Each mug features a gold coloured, cute pet design and is finished off with a gold handle for that extra look of class.

Cambridge Tel: 0161 934 2283 E-mail: sales@upgs.com Web: www.upgs.com

Autumn Fair Review_v8_Autumn Fair pages 61 and 63 24/10/2016 09:18 Page 49

Market leading brand Tower has gained industry recognition for its Health range. Tower’s owner, RKW was a finalist for the Excellence in Housewares’ Excellence in Innovation Award. Innovations include the Tower All-in-One Mandoline, an all-purpose food preparation tool with interchangeable blades adjustable via a unique twist system that slices, grates and cubes fruit and vegetables. Meanwhile, the Good Housekeeping endorsed Health Air Fryer lets users enjoy their favourite fried foods with up to 80% less fat.

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

La Cafetière’s newest additions launched to great success at Autumn Fair. Stunning copper is combined with brushed chrome for an understated premium look, while product shapes are minimalist and functional. Including a cafetière and stovetop, this collection focuses on authentic, slow-brew coffee to maximise the flavour that develops from the brewing process and the enjoyment of every sip.

Creative Tops Tel: 01536207756 Web: www.creative-tops.com

Lesser & Pavey’s in-house design department are responsible for this glamorous design featuring gold, black and white colours with stripes and dots – great for any occasion. In this range are beautiful gift items including lovely quality, and beautifully packaged tableware: Fine China Mugs, Tea for One, Cup & Saucer, Mug in Tin as well as a perfect Travel Mug. Lesser & Pavey Tel: 01322 279225 E-mail: sales@leonardo.co.uk Web: www.leonardo.co.uk Hall 5 Stand E02/F03

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On the success of Tower’s digital air fryer, which received endorsement from Good Housekeeping, Tower has now expanded on its Health range with the recent launch of the Vortx at Autumn Fair 2016. Aiming to cook healthy alternatives to traditional fried foods, the air fryer’s revolutionary Vortx technology saves on precious time and energy in the kitchen. The Vortx features new innovative air circulation technology to guarantee even heat distribution, offering quiet operation and faster cooking times.

Requiring little to no oil, the Vortx is the healthier way to fry, roast, grill and bake using 80% less fat than a regular air fryer.

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

Features is Black Edition – a fantastically priced range of stoneware kitchenware designed by the Lesser & Pavey in-house design team which includes new items such as snack sets and soup bowls. The range also includes a large teapot, spoon holder, egg-cups, jugs, mugs, biscuit jar, tea, coffee and sugar canisters.

Each item gift boxed as an individual gift.

Lesser & Pavey Tel: 01322 279225 E-mail: sales@leonardo.co.uk Web: www.leonardo.co.uk

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Retailer focus

Jewel of Essex Fenwick Colchester, previously Williams & Griffin, was presented with the Excellence in Housewares Award for Best Department Store (Multiple Branch or Group Member) Award a few weeks after the store was re-branded at the culmination of its £35million makeover. At the ‘new’ store’s launch event for VIP customers and dignitaries, PH spoke to buyer, Dean Hawes to find out more about Cookshop’s transformation.

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ith bubbly flowing, a band playing, tastings and demonstrations, the atmosphere in the Home department on the fourth floor of the new look Fenwick Colchester was positively electric for the store’s official opening night in mid September. With overwhelming enthusiasm from customers, and despite the fondness

Above: The exterior of Fenwick Colchester.

Below: Carl Milton, managing director of Fenwick Colchester (second left, next to Awards host, Tommy Sandhu) and Cookshop buyer, Dean Hawes were presented with their Best Department Store trophy by Daniel Roberts of awards category sponsor, Joseph Joseph at the recent Excellence in Housewares Awards. Dean joined Williams and Griffin in 1997, managed various departments from 2000 and started to look after Cookware from 2004, becoming buyer in 2008.

of so many locals for the old store name of Williams & Griffin, Colchester town is thrilled to embrace the changes. “This looks like a London store now – we’re hoping that having a store like this will bring more custom to the town,” one customer told PH. The Fenwick Group – which acquired

It started with gold Fenwick Colchester’s Cookshop has now earned the glittering addition of an Excellence in Housewares trophy, but before the store’s renovations got underway, in August 2014 there was a sparkling discovery for the town.

A four-month long excavation by the Colchester Archaeological Trust unearthed an astonishing horde of Roman treasure that had been buried at the site of the store almost 2,000 years ago. The horde consisted of a box filled with gold and silver coins and jewellery, hurriedly stashed in the ground by a wealthy Roman woman when warrior queen Boudicca destroyed the town.

The Fenwick Group donated ‘the Fenwick Treasure’ to Colchester Borough Council for display at Colchester Castle.

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Williams & Griffin in 2008 –invested a massive £35m in the store’s renovation, bringing two separate buildings (one with just a floor and a half) into one unit with four floors. Cookshop originally resided on the lower ground floor but moved to its permanent new position on the second floor in October 2015, where it has been catching the attention of so many of those suppliers that voted in the Excellence in Housewares Awards retailer poll.

Cookshop’s location (on the ‘House & Home’ floor) has the advantage of flowing into a new home accessories area (part of

Fenwicks_Grid 20/10/2016 15:05 Page 2

Retailer focus Below: Wooden tables and floors add to the homely ambience of Cookshop.

Right: LSA glasses and vases in between Cookshop and Gift areas.

which commands a fantastic view over the town and surrounding hills), along with rugs, linens and furniture.

Cookshop buyer, Dean Hawes recognises that encouraging customers up to a top floor is always going to be a challenge.

However, he notes that, in addition to the floor’s “joined up Home offer for our customer to furnish and accessorise all rooms,” and its distinctively warm, homely look with wooden flooring, there is also the practical addition of the store’s new central escalator and its two additional lifts. Moreover, the floor houses a variety of gift foods - with seasonal appeal - and encourages footfall with a Carluccio’s restaurant.

Dean admits: “I am incredibly proud of the new store and the Cookware department. It’s has been three years in the planning and doesn’t disappoint.” He emphasises: “We have had great support from our suppliers and worked together to deliver the best possible shopfits and merchandising.”

While the overall floor space is not that much bigger than the former Cookshop, Dean acknowledges that: “It feels a lot bigger because of the high ceilings.” The new department has less wall space for merchandising than the former Lower Ground floor site (with its various “nooks and crannies”) but instead incorporates an inviting mixture of “tables, cubes, gondolas and key merchandising sites to lead through the floor,” notes Dean.

Prominently situated at the front of Cookshop, “China and glass has moved up a gear since we’ve moved and is our biggest growth area,” Dean highlights.

Current bestsellers include Royal Doulton Pacific and classic white Cashmere by Maxwell Williams, while new additions from Canvas Home and Joules add “rustic” and “more relaxed” options respectively. Knives (focusing on Global and Zwilling JA Henckels) continue to be “a key part of our business” with an accordingly impressive knives cabinet, as Dean points out.

Reflecting trends, an area for taking food and drink on the move leads into tea and coffee products, which in turn move into

Brand new looks • During the store renovations, every department continued to trade, with the help of a temporary overflow building created in the neighbouring carpark. The Home floor was completed in the summer, including the final addition of a new area for cutlery and glass in Cookshop.

• Fenwick’s launch celebrations included demonstrations by Kuhn Rikon and Zwilling, as well as Raymond Blanc (see pages 52-53).

• As part of the store’s launch activity, Nespresso set up a Tasting Boutique for four days on in the Lower Ground Floor. Shoppers were invited to taste foods that are bitter, acid, sweet and salty in a “sensory experience” and then try Nespresso coffee varieties that might complement these. They were also challenged to smell two coffees that only differed because one came from a capsule that had been opened the previous day. Nespresso’s Saba Hashmi told shoppers (who described the scent of the older coffee as “bland” and “less pungent”): “This shows how oxidization destroys coffee and why we use aluminium capsules to keep our coffee fresh.”

the large (and “hugely popular”) area of candles and luxury artificial flowers that greet customers at the top of the escalator. However, the department's “core” cookware area is also evolving with recent additions that include Zwilling and KitchenAid. Dean recognises that the new look store is having a positive impact on Colchester town centre. He explains: “There are already plans to develop part of the High street next to the store which we had previously used as trading space while the store was developed.”

Dean also reflects on the competitive local market: “I think there will always be a threat of out of town shopping but if we invest in the High Street and keep the right proposition, the High Street will remain a key place to visit and enjoy.”

the small electricals area (anchored by Nespresso). Dean anticipates regular shuttle deliveries to bring big box electricals from the nearby warehouse to keep stock on the shelves during the busiest trading periods.

Meanwhile, gadgets and bakeware areas are punctuated by an edited selection of cooking related titles.

Premium gifts have also been introduced to Cookshop’s mix, reports Dean, including “a new table of Culinary Concepts' products leading into our glassware” as well as gifts by Inset: PH’s Jo Howard with Fenwick Colchester’s Nan Parkes, who has Arthur Price (in addition to its worked at the store for 41 years. Nan cutlery) and Wedgwood plus commented on the new look: “I’ve seen so many changes, but this is amazing!”

Swarovski crystal. The overlap with gifting is accentuated by

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Celebrity focus Right: Raymond Blanc, pictured outside Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons - one of the few restaurants in the world to hold two Michelin stars for over 30 years. He has just launched his lavish new book that celebrates the culinary seasons entitled ‘Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons – The Story of a Modern Classic’. The chef’s many roles outside his restaurants include being an ambassador for the recent British Food Fortnight and acting as President of the Sustainable Restaurant Association.

Blanc canvas Raymond Blanc - whose partnership with Meyer Group now spans over 15 years - recently shared his passion for cooking at Fenwick Colchester’s cookshop, and earlier in the year at Arnotts, Dublin. The legendary chef is also appearing in series of videos to be in played stores as well as being an online resource. In a PH exclusive, Raymond reflects on the importance of connecting with consumers and improving food education, as well as revealing some of his kitchen ‘must haves’.

There is something very infectious about Raymond Blanc’s adoration of good ingredients coupled with good cookware that emanates whenever he cooks. So it is no wonder that the chef describes his recent experiences of doing in-store demonstrations as “delightful,” elaborating: “It is enchanting to see people of all ages who are as passionate about food as I am.”

He adds: “I hope that my cookery demonstrations will leave everyone confident and inspired enough to replicate the dishes at home and enjoy them with their loved ones.”

Inset and far right: Raymond demonstrating at Fenwick Colchester.

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Raymond understands the importance – and the magic – of creating some in-store theatre: “In-store demonstrations allow me to share my passion about food and to show how anyone can cook a simple and tasty meal if you have got the right equipment.” He emphasises: “Being able to cook with my own products makes absolute sense and again this is the chance for me to explain why good ingredients and good cookware are so important.” Raymond also recognises the importance of de-mystifying cooking from scratch, especially when, for so many people, meals need to be “all about speed and simplicity today.”

When it comes to support for cookware stockists, Raymond recognises that today’s retail environment is challenging: “The competition out there in cookshops is huge and I understand that it is not easy for consumers to know which

product is better and why.” Hence the importance of creating videos that can bring his cookware to life when played in stores and as an online resource for consumers. The chef reflects: “The videos were meant to showcase my recipes in the most easy and modern way to the customer while giving them some top tips and secrets. We all know that online videos are so important nowadays as that is where many people get their inspiration.” The recipes that Raymond has selected are also designed to show off “the benefits of the ranges and what each has to offer, from hard anodised to cast aluminium to the pressure cooker as well as bakeware.”

When asked how, with a flick of a magic wand, he would encourage people to cook more meals from scratch at home, Raymond states: “This must be done through education and I must say Jamie Oliver and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall have been instrumental in campaigning for this to happen and to bringing cooking back to the curriculum in school.” He acknowledges: “A lot of people don’t understand the importance of good food and nutrition and how cooking something from scratch can both be rewarding as well as healthier for you.”

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Celebrity focus

Forged from strong stuff Meyer’s Anolon cookware first appealed to Raymond Blanc as it was “strong, durable and beautifully made.” The chef explains: “These are not only qualities a professional chef is looking for, but also today’s consumer.

That is precisely why I wanted to work with Meyer from the start. I choose my commercial partners very carefully and look to build strong, long lasting relationships.” He acknowledges: “Together we wanted to bring something special to the market that I would want to use myself in my kitchens and cookery school.”

His Hard Anodised collection continues to be a favourite. Raymond notes: “There are many great qualities with this range. They are durable due to the hard anodised material which has great heat distribution and has a soft grip handle that makes it easier to hold and which is non slip.”

Honest feedback has been key to the success of the partnership, with products put to the test in the professional kitchens and The Raymond Blanc Cookery School. “If something isn’t up to my standard we work to find a solution,” the chef states. He admits that when it comes to product development, “It’s the little details that I am always interested in and can bring to the table.” He elaborates: “For example, be it the way the rivets are finished on the handle, how the lid fits onto the pan or how much of the handle needs to be covered in a non-slip coating. I have developed all these products side-by-side with Meyer and have given my detailed feedback through every stage.”

Left: Scene from Raymond’s video using hard anodised cookware to create Steak Maman Blanc.

Above: Raymond admires the “simplicity” of his Pressure Cooker from Meyer, which “suits our modern busy lifestyle where we are all rushing from meeting to meeting, commitment to commitment, so by cooking everything in one pot and by reducing cooking times we are hopefully helping to give people back some time.” His favourite dish to cook in it “has to be my Maman Blanc’s vegetable soup, bien sûr. Simple, healthy and delicious.”

Kitchen treasures Raymond is also aware how consumers are bombarded with advice from all manner of sources as to what to eat, or what to avoid: ”So many of us are jumping on the next fad diet and listening to all the wrong information, and there is so much conflicting information out there.

Years ago there weren’t all these diets and new crazes and obesity and diabetes weren’t as prominent as they are now.”

Raymond has fond memories of how his own passion for meals made from good, local ingredients was ignited, when helping his mother. “The kitchen was Maman Blanc’s domain and I was her sous chef,” he reflects, admitting; “I never minded helping but on some occasions I was envious of my friends who got to play football outside.” Raymond continues: “Maman gave me the job of peeling, chopping or even digging potatoes outside. She was such lovely company and a great mentor. My father would grow and harvest the fruit and vegetables, or hunt and fish for us and the produce would be passed to Maman who would transform them into wonderful feasts for my siblings and I.” He emphasises: “We were poor but we ate

like kings. And all our meals were seasonal.”

It is clear that Raymond has a deep respect for kitchenware retailers, stating: “I love the exchange with the people who work in the stores as they all have great knowledge of cookware as well as of their customers.” He continues: “I find it very constructive to have their feedback and thoughts on the equipment but also on how the customers see the range, their needs, trends, etc. I must say, every time I have been in a store I have always received the warmest welcome.”

The chef describes the new look Fenwick Colchester as “fabulous” with a “wonderful” cookware department and “charming” people. He notes: “Sadly, I did not get too much time to browse but maybe that was a good thing!”

However, he adds, “I will definitely be back and I will definitely try the famous Colchester oysters.”

When quizzed about treasured ‘can’t do without’ items of kitchenware (besides his own range), Raymond exclaims: “Oh la la, essentials I can’t live without in the kitchen are many but I would say I have two favourites. Firstly a digital timer: There’s always so much going on at home and I easily get distracted if there is a football match on (Arsenal of course) so I use a timer to ensure I don’t forget what’s in the oven. I do not wish to burn what I have prepared for my guests or my loved ones.

Secondly, a food probe: This allows you to understand what’s happening inside your piece of meat, fish or even a soufflé so that when you serve it it is soft and melting and not overcooked.”

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What’s Cooking?

For Christmas?

Four retailers predict some bestsellers for Christmas gifts and festive cooking and entertaining.

Below: Looking for that perfect gift that oozes style and class? La Cafetière from Creative Tops offers a selection of Cafetières to suit all tastes.

Jeremy Fruen, partner, Ma Cuisine, Devizes A large, well stocked kitchenware shop that overlooks the market place in this Wiltshire town.

KitchenAid Mixer from Beam Group

This is the ultimate machine to mix your Christmas cake, and an aspirational gift. They are selling well on a good promotion.

Handheld Spiraliser from Microplane and KitchenAid Electrical Spiraliser from Beam Group Cafetieres by La Cafetière from Creative Tops, Bodum and Grunwerg Decorative Elephants and Giraffes from Sari Fabrics

Whether customers are investing in the small handheld gadget or the larger electrical spiraliser, these are bestsellers. Everyone seems to be spiralising because they want a healthier diet with more vegetables, including corgetti.

We stock two dozen different types of Cafetiere and sell hundreds – at least one or two every day!

This is obviously gifts rather than cookshop, but it is a quirky line that we found at a fair and people come in just to see them. They

Below: The KitchenAid Artisan Mixer from Beam Group brings a touhc of class into the kitchen - a perfect Christmas gift for a lucky receiver.

make collectable great gifts, ranging from 15” to the 10’ giraffe we have as a permanent fixture (and talking point) in the shop.

These are the classic, iconic knives that everyone wants,

Global Knives Block Sets from Grunwerg Glasses from Dartington

and the sets in blocks are doing really well.

We do a ‘six for four’ offer all the year round and have seven styles in the range. The red and white wine and champagne glasses are our bestsellers and people will be stocking up for Christmas entertaining.

Duncan Robson, partner, The Magpie’s Kitchen, Whitby This kitchenware shop was established eight years ago in the picturesque seaside town of Whitby, near the business of Duncan’s family, the famous Magpie Café.

Durobar Bubble Flutes From Tradestock Martin Wiscombe Gravy Jug From ECP Design Christmas Napkins From Ambiente Espresso Mugs From Kitchen Craft Masterclass Oven and Meat Thermometers From Kitchen Craft Ducks and Hens Egg Holders From Fairmont & Main

Right: The perfect accompaniament to any dinner table and indeed any Christmas feast worth it’s salt - bring that retro flavour to the table with the Martin Wiscombe Gravy Jug from ECP Design.

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A unique design and a good price point. People buy for themselves and as presents.

These sell well all year round but sell best at Christmas.

These are a great pick up item that start selling as soon as we put them out in September.

A great stocking filler with a good price point.

We get a late rush on thermometers every Christmas.

An all year round good seller but they fly off the shelves at Christmas time as they make a nice Christmas present.

Right: A new way to enjoy a glass of Champs or your favourite Prosecco, Durobar Bubble Flutes from Tradestock will create a real talking point!

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What’s Cooking?

Sue Tranter, partner, Cookshop Newport, Newport A small cookshop in the high street, run by mother and daughter and established in 2011, with an online presence, as well as supplying local companies.

Christmas Napkins from NJ Products

These are good quality, attractive designs that are really eye-catching, so customers are stocking up now.

Handfinished Luxury Chocolates from Sarunds Wüsthof Classic Beech Knife Block Set from Haus Aprons from Dexam

We are known for our range of chocolates, which go down a storm at Christmas. We do chocolate hampers and have some lovely shoe designs coming in.

These are really good gifts for serious cooks. .

The country designs such as chickens do well here, as well as the Christmas ones, as gifts or self-purchases.

The perspex mills in gift sets (both CrushGrind and

Salt and Pepper Sets from T&G

ordinary) are good quality at good prices.

Recently seen being used on The Great British Bake Off, these pie moulds are excellent quality and are a really good idea, particularly as you can take off the sides for browning the crust.

Game Pie Moulds from Silverwood

Right: For the serious chef of the household, Wüsthof’s Classic Beech Knife Block Set will really cut the mustard.

Right: Dexam’s Christmas inspired textiles bring the festivities into the kitchen where the serious work is done!

Keith Crowther, owner, La Cookshop, Blagdon A destination cookshop situated in converted farm buildings in the Milkhope Centre on the Blagdon Estate alongside other independents, including a farm shop.

Royal Worcester Wrendale Mugs from Portmeirion Group Christmas Candle Gift Sets from History & Heraldry Stellar 1000 Cookware from Horwood

People love these designs and come to us because we sell everything from Wrendale, including greeting cards, diaries and calendars. The artist, Hannah is incredibly talented and a lovely person too.

These are a superb product, made of soy wax and containing no animal fats so there are no black marks on the ceiling when they burn.

We have sold Stellar for 22 years, and people always stock up before Christmas, buying extra pieces because they are doing more cooking.

Christmas Cake Decorations from Culpitts Pimpernel Damask Placemats and Coasters from Portmeirion Group Christmas Tableware from Villeroy & Boch

The traditional decorations such as robins and Christmas trees are always popular.

These damask prints in silver and gold are attractive and a really good price.

Villeroy & Boch is new for us and we quickly sold out of the Christmas decorations we had ordered.

Customers are buying pieces such as serving plates, candleholders and flan dishes for their Christmas tables.

Left: With extra guests often expected at Christmas, this Stellar 1000 Cookwre range from Horwood will help speed up the cooking process .

Right: The perfect ‘cute’ gift/stocking filler for Christmas the Royal Worcester Wrendale Mugs range from Portmeirion is likely to melt the coldest of hearts!

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What’s cooking

for Christmas Gifts

Adding a dash of glamour to festive feasts, Pyrex’s stylish Gusto Black Diamond range will certainly stand out on your Christmas display.

With a glistening non-stick diamond effect interior and a striking glossy black exterior, this latest collection from Pyrex will add a touch of sparkle to any recipe. Offering ultimate resistance and durability – as well as fast, even heat distribution – the whole range is crafted in 3.0mm pressed aluminium. A high quality, lightweight solution for non-induction hobs, with some of the shapes boasting a specially designed ‘Y’ shaped handle for superior weight distribution.

Pyrex Tel: 01564 786 030 Web: www.pyrexuk.com

Pictured is Bamix, the revolutionary wand food processor with a versatility that replaces many kitchen appliances. It cuts chops and purees raw and cooked veg, cooked meat, frozen fruit and even ice cubes. The additional SliceSy attachment allows you to mix together pastry quickly and easily. Bamix is easy to use, clean, very quiet, easy to hold and doesn’t vibrate through any of its functions. A kitchen tool designed with universal uses in mind.

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

Vacu Vin has Christmas 2016 all wrapped up with the Swirling Carafe! The elegant carafe spins effortlessly thanks to its ingenious weighted lazy Susan cork base. Not only are the wine’s flavours maximised, thanks to the gentle rolling and turning motion, but the Swirling Carafe really is an eye catcher – it will make a real statement on any Christmas table!!

Interntational Innovation Company Tel: 01299 250480 E-mail: sales@iicbrands.com Web: www.vacuvin.com

According to Vitamix research, versatility holds the key to growth in the UK blender market.

Featuring this versatility and durability is the Vitamix S30, offering a sleek, compact design that allows users to easily create smaller batches, and streamlines everyday kitchen tasks. The S30 is available to all retailers in Black, White, Brushed Stainless, Red, Cream, Daybreak Blue and Sour Apple Green and includes a seven-year warranty, plus a blending cookbook.

Vitamix Web: www.vitamix.co.uk/S30

The new Judge Electric Carving Knife makes light work of carving the Sunday roast and slicing Salami or bread, ensuring professional results with minimum effort. The on/off button and a blade-release button are clearly positioned on the comfortable handle. Powered by a 150-160w motor, the dual, serrated, stainless steel blades carve and slice effortlessly and accurately giving expert results every time. Peace of mind is assured by Judge’s domestic electrical guarantee, which covers the Judge Electric Carving Knife for two years.

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

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What’s cooking

Like Eddington’s new fun and festive Egg Cups, it’s time to put on a Santa hat and brace yourself because Christmas is coming! This year Eddingtons can deliver a sack-full of perfect stocking fillers to make your tills full of Christmas Spirit this season! From Christmas tree drinks dispensers to wine charms, Christmas baking spatulas and drinks stencils to copper nut crackers and cookie cutters – Eddingtons has hundreds of fun and innovative products to get you in the festive spirit.

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

for Christmas Gifts

The GreenPan™ roaster has an extra thick hard anodised body, double riveted steel handles for secure grip and is spacious enough – 41.5cm including handles by 27cm – for a large size turkey or joint of meat. The Thermolon™ high performance ceramic non-stick interior means all food is easily released from the pan, it is oven-safe to 250°C and also suitable for use on all hobs excluding induction.

GreenPan Tel: 01483 255842, Web: www.greenpan.co.uk

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

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

The season’s hottest metallic trends are at the heart of the latest introductions to Le’Xpress, the quintessential beverage brand from Kitchen Craft, which is perfect for embracing a love of all things tea and coffee. With the gift buying season upon us, stylish gift packaging and creative design throughout the brand make it easy to find the perfect gift for coffee connoisseur friends - or even to provide a crafty little self-gift to give the kitchen a style boost! Available in two sizes – 350ml three-cup and 850ml six-cup, and both feature heat resistant borosilicate glass jugs.

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

Enjoying cheese and wine has never been more popular and Gourmet Cheese ensures hosts can effortlessly provide this experience in their homes in style. Perfect for indulging in a deliciously melted cheese starter or adding a warm twist to traditional cheese boards, these cheese bakers are a sophisticated way to bake as well as serve Camembert or Brie. These beautiful bakers are styled in vintage red and blue designs, imitating classic French and Swiss cheese labels.

Creative Tops Tel: 01536 207756 E-mail: press@creative-tops.com Web: www.creative-tops.com

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What’s cooking

for Christmas Gifts

The Witt Mycook Touch is the perfect way to take the stress out of cooking at Christmas! Using induction technology, touch screen connectivity and amazing versatility, you can choose from 1000’s of recipes to fry, steam, boil, chop, blend and stir to create your favourite Christmas meals!

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

PHA offers a selection of Christmas gifts, including the Prepara Whisky gift set. This set includes a 2.5” ice ball – the largest in its class – and a glass whisky tumbler. Due to the spherical shape of the ice ball, the ice will melt at a slower rate reducing the amount of water dilution. BPA free and dishwasher safe.

PHA KitchEssentials Tel: 0151 651 2265 Web: www.phakitchenessentials.co.uk

Corelle tableware is perfect for setting a festive dinner or an everyday meal. Only Corelle crockery is made from Vitrelle® glass, a unique three-layer glass that makes it highly chip and break resistant, yet lightweight and stackable to fit easily into cupboards.

Available in round and square shapes and in over 50 different patterns, you’ll find the one (or more) design to meet the right occasion. Corelle – Irresistibly Resistant.

World Kitchen Tel: 07769 150889 Web: www.corelle.eu

Sophie Allport produces fine bone china, kitchen and home textiles, oilcloth and stationery - all inspired by her love of nature and the countryside. At this year’s Autumn Fair, Sophie launched five new collections as well as numerous new products – featured is Starry Night.

Sophie Allport Tel: 01778 560 256 Web: sophieallport.com

Tradestock offers a range of glitter placemats, coasters and table runners in traditional festive colours – gold, red and silver, while several Christmas themed surface deigns feature across a selection of key tabletop items including placemats, coasters, trays and hot drinks glassware.

Tradestock Tel: 01823 661717 E-mail: sales@tradestockltd.co.uk Web: www.tradestockltd.co.uk

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Pitcured are jewel inspired Wine and Flute Glasses from Western House fit for royalty - a beautiful, contemporary range of two stems in three assorted colours. These subtle Emerald, Sapphire and Ruby hues are an ideal fit for the autumn season and are sure to make your table sparkle.

Western House Tel: 01256 462341 Web: www.western-house.com

new

products

This season T&G has added to its best-selling vintage enamel look ‘Pride of Place’ range with a biscuit jar in white and cool grey. The new biscuit jar is perfect for keeping cookies, biscuits and treats fresh as the jar has a sealed lid, designed for style and functionality. This new addition joins the recently launched salt and pepper shakers.

T&G’s ‘Pride of Place’ in white and cool grey is a pure and sophisticated look, elegant and quite timeless with an on trend feel creating a versatile collection perfect for modern living.

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

Copper as a trend in homewares is still right up there and this range of Cermalon Ceramic Copper cookware offers the double ‘copper copper’ plus of a copper ceramic non-stick coated interior and hand-polished metallic exterior. Suitable for all hobs including induction, Cermalon Copper covers a wide range of items – three frypans, milk pan, three lidded saucepans and three sets (frypans, saucepans and a seven-piece fry/saucepan set).

Qudos Marketing Tel: 01925 623960 E-mail: info@qudosmarketing.co.uk

To celebrate 30-years of delivering innovative cookware technology, Circulon has announced the launch of two new collections from Ultimum, the stunning new cookware range designed with the proficient cook in mind. Passionate cooks will love the stylish Ultimum ranges showcasing the unique Ultra Total® non-stick system with its new profile hi-low circular grooves, which significantly reduce abrasion. The non-stick coating provides enhanced food release making cooking easier with little or no need for oil and easier cleaning.

Meyer Group Web: www.circulon.uk.com

The distinctive Kilner® 5 litre Barrel Drinks Dispenser, is the perfect way to serve your beverages with ease.

Whether it’s mulled wine, juices, infused water or cocktails, the dispenser will keep the contents fresh.

The barrel design also features an embossed Kilner® emblem and is has a push top wooden lid to keep your liquids secure and airtight. Perfect for entertaining.

The Rayware Group Tel: 0151 4861888 E-mail: sales@rayware.co.uk

NEWICON.

Brabantia (UK) Limited Blackfriars Road Nailsea Bristol BS48 4SB

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Tel: 01275 810600 Fax: 01275 810191 Email: sales.uk@brabantia.com www.brabantia.com www.tradesales.brabantia.com

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