Warm Welcome Magazine - January Issue

warm welcome

January Issue Radisson Hotel Group’s expansion plan aims to double the portfolio in operation by 2025.

WMF Professional Coffee Machines is presenting the next phase of its digital solutions roadmap.

Gong are the go-to lighting brand for interior designers, architects, hotels and restaurants.

Pages 6-7

Pages 24-25

Pages 32-33

warmwelcomemagazine.com

Contents 04

Hotels

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Contract Furniture & Furnishings

22

Commercial Coffee

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Contract Lighting

44

Travel

To feature in an upcoming issue or to discuss advertising opportunities please contact a member of the Warm Welcome team; Publication Manager Dean Little - 01227 314 324 dean@warmwelcomemagazine.com Sales & Marketing Manager Michael Amor - 01227 314 324 michael@warmwelcomemagazine.com Editorial Assistant Carol Jean - 01227 314 324 carol@warmwelcomemagazine.com

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rpa:group to oversee significant investment programe of Hampshire’s elegant Elvetham hotel With a heritage dating back to being mentioned in the Domesday Book, the Elvetham’s history is full of royalty, nobility and intrigue. It is set within thirty-five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and is surrounded by the 4,000 acre Elvetham Heath estate and Hampshire countryside. The original house that hosted the likes of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I was destroyed in a fire, but in 1860, Frederick, 4th Baron Calthorpe commissioned the architect Samuel Sanders Teulon to build a splendid mansion on the same site.

Further additions over the years include a carriage porch, built in 1901 and the Library and Oak rooms, built a decade later in 1911.

Today, this grand 19th century building is an upmarket hotel comprising 72 bedrooms and hosts weddings and conferences within its twenty meeting spaces and ten separate buildings, set within the 35 acre estate.

The Elvetham was recently acquired by Jastar Capital , a family-owned hotels, real estate and private equity business, who saw the potential to further build on and enhance this well-loved hotel. With the benefit of Jastar Capital’s significent investment programe, the Elvetham Hotel will receive a full refurbishment of its bedrooms, bathrooms, common areas and also the formation of a new restaurant and the construction of a market- leading spa. The works will also include additional bedrooms, bathrooms and common areas.

With over thirty-five years of experience in construction and hospitality, rpa:group has been requested by Jaystar Capital to provide services for Project Management, Quantity Surveying and Contract Administration in connection with the refurbishment of the Stable Building. Acting as lead consultant, the brief is for a ‘turnkey’ solution to the development and scope that covers architectural stages 0-6, and management of all pre-construction and construction stages of the project. Involvement also includes the coordination of pre-appointed Architectural, M&E, Structural and other relevant sub-consultants.

The hotel will remain fully opertional during the refurbishment works, which are being undertaken in two phases and are expected to reach completion in mid 2021.

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Radisson Hotel Group strengthens its extended stay value proposition Radisson Hotel Group has plans to more than double its serviced apartments portfolio within the next 5 years across EMEA. Today, serviced apartments represent around 10% of the Group’s EMEA portfolio with 45 properties and more than 5,400 units in operation and under development.

Radisson Hotel Group operates its serviced apartments as a stand-alone or a mixed-use development in combination with a traditional hotel operation. Serviced apartments will be developed as a brand extension of the existing Radisson Hotel Group’s brand portfolio to cater to the different segments from midscale to luxury.

Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer Radisson Hotel Group said: “For many years we have explored the strong demand for serviced apartments and extended stay products by recognizing it as an attractive risk-adjusted investment proposition that has considerable growth potential. Given its relevance to the current economic climate, this value proposition has recently been further defined in our portfolio, offering a holistic concept with more opportunities for our investors and more possibilities for our guests. We commit to stay relevant to all our stakeholders.”

Radisson Hotel Group’s expansion plan aims to double the portfolio in operation by 2025, recognizing the attractive model of either combining both hotel and serviced apartments in one development or as a standalone operation, catering to customers looking for a residential atmosphere when travelling for leisure or on business for a short or longer period of stay.

This proposition features an attractive operational and commercial model with value engineered construction parameters, featuring a new look and design. It offers studios as well as one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchen, en-suite bathroom, 24-hour reception, housekeeping services, engaging social and communal spaces, food & drink options and a range of leisure facilities tailored to its location.

Building on the significant growth to date in much of the EMEA region, Radisson Hotel Group plans to open soon new serviced apartments units in Paris, Amsterdam, Dubai, Istanbul, Larnaca, Cortina, Cairo and Riyadh, with further openings planned in Germany.

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Hyatt announces plans for Hyatt Regency London Olympia Hotels

Situated in a new development in West London, Hyatt Regency London Olympia will mark the second Hyatt Regency hotel in the capital

Hyatt has announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with an affiliate of Olympus Property Holding Limited to develop a new Hyatt Regency hotel in London. The 196-room hotel is slated to open in 2024 and will mark the eighth Hyatt-branded property and the second Hyatt Regency hotel in London.

Hyatt Regency London Olympia will add to the current portfolio of Hyatt Regency hotels in the United Kingdom, joining Hyatt Regency Birmingham, Hyatt Regency Manchester and Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill.

Hyatt Regency London Olympia will deliver the personalised and energising guest experiences as well as the stressfree environment that embodies the Hyatt Regency brand ethos. Business and leisure travellers alike will enjoy seamless, intuitive service alongside memorable dining experiences as well as flexible spaces to work, collaborate or relax.

“We are delighted to join forces with Olympus Property Holding Limited to be part of the exciting redevelopment of the Olympia exhibition centre and bring the Hyatt Regency brand to life in this incredible new quarter of London,” said Felicity BlackRoberts, vice president of development Europe, Hyatt. “Expanding Hyatt’s brand footprint with these plans to add a second Hyatt Regency hotel in London contributes to our ambitious growth strategy for the UK and our embodies our focus on thoughtful growth in places that matter most to our guests, World of Hyatt members and customers. With its reputation as a place for people to connect, the Hyatt Regency brand will fit perfectly in this new development.”

Hyatt Regency London Olympia will be part of a new development that will see Olympia, London’s historic convention centre built in 1873 redeveloped and transformed into an integrated convention, entertainment, and cultural district in West London. This redevelopment will include upgrades to

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the Olympia tube and rail station, additional bicycle routes and bus connectivity, allowing guests to access London’s Heathrow, Gatwick and City airports in under an hour by public transport.

Anchored by the Grand and National Halls’ iconic glass barrel vaulted roofs, the new 14-acre (56,656 square metres) site is being designed by Heatherwick Studies and Sparcc, and will include the creation of a boutique multi-screen arthouse cinema, a 4,000-person music and performing arts venue, a 1,500 seat theatre, a 2.5 acre rooftop sky garden, as well as restaurants, shops, cafés, hotels and 51,096 square metres (550,000 square feet) of office and co-working space.

Hyatt Regency London Olympia will feature a restaurant and a lobby lounge with bar and market area. For corporate guests, the hotel will offer four meeting rooms and will be directly connected to the London Olympia convention centre.

“Having Hyatt on board is a real positive for London and a clear indication of confidence in both the city and this iconic landmark as a destination for culture and creativity,” said Chairman of Olympia Ltd John Hitchcox.

“The Olympia redevelopment project will give a real boost to the local economy, so we are very pleased to be taking another big step towards the realisation of a new vision for this area.”

The new hotel will join Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, Andaz London Liverpool Street, Hyatt Place West London Hayes, Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport and Great Scotland Yard Hotel, which is part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand. Further, Hyatt Place London City/East is planned to open in 2021 and Park Hyatt London River Thames is scheduled to open 2022.

For more information about Hyatt Regency hotels, please visit: hyattregency.com

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Spa in West Jutland, Denmark refurbished with focus on aesthetics Hotels

Following a refurbishment, Hotel Fjordgaarden in Ringkøbing now boasts an exclusive new spa that is already attracting visitors from near and far. Aesthetics were a top priority in this project which is reflected in the luxurious solutions chosen; these include the elegant linear drains, covered with custom-cut tiles that blend almost invisibly in with the flooring. West Jutland has a new attraction to tempt tourists. Situated next to the Ringkøbing Fjord is the Hotel Fjordgaarden; originally built in 1967, the hotel has undergone an expansion and total refurbishment and now includes a luxurious new spa.

COVID-19 and travel restrictions may have slightly affected visitor numbers, but guests have still been flocking to Fjordgaarden, and the hotel recoreded its busiest summer ever.

The majority of this success can be attributed to the spa, which opened in June and was officially inaugurated in August.

“With the refurbishment, we wanted to attract a new segment of customers to the hotel; the spa definitely helps with this. We want our guests to feel that Fjordgaarden is worth the journey, and we think they will when they see our new super-elegant spa,” says Fjordgaarden’s manager Brian Madsen.

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Luxurious style – exclusive details According to Brian Madsen, every detail of the spa has been carefully considered. The style is well thought-out, with large, rustic tiles, wood panelling as well as sand and lyme grass: “The refurbishment has a strong focus on aesthetics; from the outset this was the top priority throughout the hotel. We want visitors to experience sheer luxury and elegance; this is reflected both in the design and the materials used. We’re delighted to report we’ve already had a lot of positive feedback from the guests.”The spa was fitted with linear drains from the design company Unidrain, which is renowned for its stylish, minimalistic products.

The hotel chose Unidrain’s HighLine Custom drain, to suit the spa’s fashionable look.

“Invisible” linear drains provide a stylish finish The solution provides a discreet drain, where the familiar grate is replaced by custom-cut tiles that match the surrounding floor.

“We’re extremely pleased that our drains were chosen to help create the right experience in the spa. Our Highline Custom

drain with the tile covering produces an elegant finish and a beautiful style. It’s barely noticeable, because it slopes so discreetly into the floor,” says Anders W. Christensen,Unidrain’s Area Sales Manager.

The discreet drain has been installed around both the pools as well as in the sauna and shower areas.

The lounge area is also equipped with the stylish linear drains, which have been placed with great care: “Based on drawings of all the rooms, we made recommendations on the length and number of the drains. We also provided advice on their optimal location. The focus was on creating a result that merges form and function. We took water drainage into account to make sure the drains had the right capacity. In addition, we took care to create the right slope without cutting the tiles into pieces. This creates a solid, seamless look that’s extremely stylish,” concludes Anders W. Christensen.

For more information please visit: www.unidrain.com or contact: Karen@espritmedia.co.uk Tel: 01428 788098

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Automation Age: The Smart Tech Transforming the Hospitality Sector The hospitality industry is fast-paced and often highly stressful. But meeting customer expectations, maintaining supplier relationships and remaining profitable is made easier through automation.

The automation of processes throughout your hospitality business can help you save money and increase efficiency, even in the midst of the global coronavirus pandemic.

In fact, the coronavirus pandemic has likely accelerated the adoption of automation in the hospitality industry.

Checking and compliance Smart technology allows a lot of mundane tasks associated with compliance issues to be automated. Examples include checking the temperature of fridges, ensuring that waste bins are not overfilled, listening to fire alarm tests, and looking at the flow of guests through common areas to inform cleaning rotas.

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Other repetitive tasks also present opportunities for automation, including loading and unloading dishwashers, slicing vegetables in preparation for food service, carrying food and drinks from the kitchen to a table, lifting crates and putting products into storage.

Proactive and predictive maintenance Smart automation allows business owners to be proactive by ensuring that key equipment such as air conditioners are not rattling or misfiring. Maintenance can be carried out on a proactive basis and staff know ahead of time the problem they are going to fix.

Resourceful automation In an age of potentially fewer staff working with the same number of guests and rooms, hospitality venue owners can seek to improve productivity through technology that is simple to deploy and acts to reduce the workload quickly. By leveraging workflow automation for specific business tasks, hospitality businesses are freeing up employees’ time to focus on their customers.

Take for example some work we did with a 5-star hotel. In one of the hotel’s quiet reception rooms, the air conditioner sounded like a jumbo jet taking off. No one noticed it until a guest complained, and no one had checked the maintenance of the unit, which was mechanically unsound.

A smart sensor would have picked this up and alerted the management team before it compromised the guest experience.

Investing in innovative technology can also help an industry with a typically high staff turnover to successfully manage and retain frontline workers.

Social distancing by default Automating functions that were previously done in-person allows hospitality businesses to enforce social distancing, reduce human

interaction and minimise contact between guests and hotel staff.

Examples include: - Using robots to provide meals to guests - Auto-deployed sanitation, such as bots that kill bacteria using ultraviolet light - Using contactless technology (such as mobile apps and digital keys) to enable guests to check in and out - Smart temperature checking cameras for automated access control, based on an individual’s temperature and/or facial recognition - Allowing customers to place orders on an app rather than with bar and waiting staff In the fast food sector, McDonald’s has already installed automated servers that allow customers to place their order on a touchscreen rather than through a customer-service assistant.

These technologies not only promote social distancing, but can also enhance the customer experience by making processes faster and more seamless. Promoting automation may also boost consumer confidence, as hotels and accommodation providers strive to prove that they are clean and safe in a COVID-conscious age.

And the stats also speak for themselves.

According to Oracle’s 2019 Hospitality Benchmark Report, 90% of respondents stated that the guest experience could be improved using smartphones to manage basic services such as booking a room and managing the check-in/ check-out process. As the hospitality industry adapts to new working practices brought on by the coronavirus pandemic and technology advancements, smart automation is coming to the forefront as leaders in the industry become increasingly aware of its potential and profitability.

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Upholstery Fabrics Designed for the Future of Workspaces Our @Work collection is ideally suited to ‘new normal’ office design projects.

Moreover, @Work’s best-selling Task range is now available with our AguaGuard365 treatment, which offers certified protection against COVID-19 It might seem like a strange time to be reflecting on our @Work range, six collections of soft and vinyl fabrics that we released last year specifically to cater to workplace environments.

Of course, 2020 has been an unusual year for commercial design projects, with offices half-empty or hastily redesigned to accommodate social distancing measures.

But, this reprieve has also offered a rare opportunity for businesses to rethink how they utilise their central workspaces.

Demand for flex office space has soared this year, with the number of flex space centres in the UK increasing by 7 per cent since March, and flexible office space accounting for over 35% of commercial property transactions in London alone over the past 12 months.

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Now, as we move into 2021, analysts are predicting an all-time boom in flex working, as progressive corporates move from traditional office space to large-scale flexible solutions. In other words, now’s a good time to be thinking about commercial design projects. The @Work range is tailored to this new world; our @Work fabrics combine contemporary design with practicality, durability and all the necessary workplace fire retardancy requirements.

This last characteristic is particularly important at a time when businesses have equipped their staff with office furniture for remote working, which has raised questions over which fire retardancy standards apply: domestic or commercial. Thankfully, @Work has you covered either way; all our @Work fabrics conform to Domestic Cigarette & Match – BS5852 Pt1 1979 and Contract Low Hazard Cigarette & Match – BS EN 1021 – 1:2006 1&2. Plus, @Work fabrics also meet Contract Medium Hazard BS7176 Crib 5.

We’ve also been experimenting with the range’s best selling collection, Task (pictured). It is the first @Work collection to receive our new protective treatment, AguaGuard365, which is effective against both bacteria and viruses and offers certified protection against COVID-19. Developed in partnership with Swiss laboratory, HeiQ, AguaGuard365 is unique to Agua and the only fabric treatment of its kind in the UK. In other words, Task fabrics are a truly unique solution to future-proofing commercial design projects in the ‘new normal’.

This, together with the fact that all our @ Work fabrics are all held in stock, makes Agua the fast, safe and stress-free choice for both commercial projects and homeworker furniture design.

You can explore the @Work range using our digital catalogue here, or reach out to our sales team with any inquiries on info@ aguafabrics.com.

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Common mistakes buying restaurant furniture Contract Furniture & Furnishings

Whether you are an experienced restaurant owner, seasoned buyer or a first time purchaser of contract furniture, we’ve got a few tips that will help avoid the common regrets of commercial furniture purchases. At JB Commercial, we’ve been in the Contract Furniture business, helping customers with their decision making for many years, so we’ve compiled our top tips of things to avoid.

revenue opportunities. If you need to order more furniture, you add on the cost of the additional pieces, but also the extra delivery and handling charges. It’s best to order it right the first time with the most accurate dimensions.

Space Over filling the space and cluttering with too many tables and chairs results in a confused space. Analysing how many covers the restaurant will comfortably seat and then deciding how many customers you can serve, based specifically on the area size of the restaurant is essential before purchasing the right amount of tables.

Measurements Failing to take into consideration the space between furniture is a common mistake.

There should be at least 45cm between chairs, ensuring customers don’t get knocked by staff or other customers, and this distance is extended for fine dining restaurants. Fast and professional service requires an efficient flow pattern, so choosing furniture that can achieve efficient working space should also be taken into consideration. Mixing and matching to intersperse armchairs can be a great idea to create interest and ensure every table is the best seat in the house, but always check that the arms of the chairs fit comfortably under your table tops.

Cramming too many tables into a space is one pitfall, however if there isn’t enough furniture, you won’t be maximising your

Customers Failure take into consideration the customers’ expectations can be a bit pitfall

We’ve consolidated some of the common pitfalls of buying contract furniture into 5 main areas.

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when purchasing restaurant furniture. The seating is especially important to create a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere whatever style of restaurant. But turnaround times are a very important part of running a successful business. For example in fast food venues or cafés, everything should be laid out for speed, and so all the surfaces must be easily cleaned. Conversely a fine dining establishment requires thought about how many sittings you plan to have, and the comfort of the seating should correspond with the length of time you want customers to stay.

Environment Choosing furniture that dictates style over practicality is a common pitfall for first time restaurant furniture buyers. Coordinating furniture to complement the theme is essential to create a coordinated look, but practical furniture for the style of the restaurant is a key priority. Durability is a top priority for restaurant owners to provide the best return on investment.

For more information please visit: www.jb-commercial-furniture.co.uk

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Contract Furniture & Furnishings

Bringing hospitality Interiors to life!

Luke Edwards Interior Design specialise in bringing hospitality interiors to life so your space stands out amongst your competitors and neighbours.

We have what we call a “method design” philosophy. This means that we create an interior that captures the personality of your brand and mix it with the character of your space to bring your hospitality interior to life.

As we’re a forward thinking design company we also incorporate “Neuro Design” principles into our designs, which includes designing for wellbeing and using elements of psychology, to create stimulating, sustainable and timeless designs. We strongly believe the future of hospitality interior design will be based around these design principles.

We provide a consultation service too, which can act as its own design service for anyone just looking for advice & guidance, in addition to being the starting point for any full interior design project. Luke Edwards Interior Design also design and sell our own designer wallpapers, primarily for hospitality

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and commercial interiors both in the UK and worldwide. We currently have 3 different collections - 173ZERO, Rokusho, and Jewel.

All the colourways and further details can be viewedon our website. Wallpaper samples are also now available to purchase from our website.

Our high quality sustainable designer wallpapers, primarily for hospitality and commercial interiors, are based on neuro design principles and the simplicity of colour, shape, pattern and texture to create timeless designs.

Our wallpapers can perfectly compliment other design features as well as being the focal point to design around. They are designed to have the flexibility to be used in all types of interior styles, everything from luxury hotels to industrial bars and restaurants. They’re available on a number of various substrates which provide different textures and finishes.

For more information head over to lukeedwards-id.co.uk to find out more or contact via mail@lukeedwards-id.co.uk

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Kaldewei Ming: traditional and modern New washbasin bowl made of sustainable steel enamel Premium bathroom manufacturer Kaldewei enhances portfolio with a new and luxurious highlight product. Asian-inspired, the Ming’s design is unique in its segment. Its shape typifies both the traditional and the modern.

The lines of this delicate washbasin bowl produce an elegant, sculptural shape ideal for a distinctive interior design. Moreover, it offers exceptional comfort thanks to its generous depth and a lastingly hygienic glass surface.

Ming combines unique design with sustainability The Ming’s most striking design feature is its elegant shape. Convex curves form a sensual outline, the neutral black and white tones used remain unobtrusive, allowing for plenty of scope within individually designed washrooms.

Like all Kaldewei products, the Ming is made of superior steel enamel. This material features a flawlessly glazed surface and is extremely long-lasting and ultra hygienic.

Steel enamel is 100 per cent recyclable and is one of the most sustainable

materials available for modern bathroom fit-outs.,This washbasin bowl is easy to clean and extremely resistant to external impacts just a few of the reasons why Kaldewei offers a30-year product guarantee for its steel enamel products. The Ming is available in four different colours: lava black matt, polished black, alpine white and alpine white matt.

Musician and photographer Bryan Adams showcases Ming with a powerful message Guided by the motto “naturally connected”, legendary musician and award-winning photographer Bryan Adams has artfully showcased the new Ming washbasin bowl.

His aim is to highlight connectedness and an awareness of hygiene in turbulent times.

Applying a keen eye for detail, Adams gives us an intimate look at being together: with simple hygiene measures we extend our hands to each other – to our family, our friends and our partners. It’s a message that is both highly topical and timeless – and one which is perfectly reflected in the Ming’s classic design.

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CT8

CAFÉTOUCH Touchless Bean to cup Compact, elegant and versatile. A high performance machine, perfect for any environment

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Compact, elegant and packed with innovative technology, the Cafetouch 8 is the perfect bean to cup coffee machine for any environment.

Versatility is at the heart of the CT8. The 10� touchscreen has an intuitive layout and offers a step-by-step mode, giving you the ability to offer a wide range of top quality drinks, that all completely customisable. And the Drip-saver systems means the cup station is always clean after every drink.

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Commercial Coffee

WMF Professional Coffee Machines digital solutions roadmap enters the next phase With its new set of Self-Payment Solutions, premium manufacturer WMF Professional Coffee Machines is presenting the next phase of its digital solutions roadmap.

The function package for mobile payment solutions and system integration opens up an entirely new range of cutting-edge interaction options for WMF customers, helping them boost the efficiency and profitability of their coffee business even further. Alongside innovative customer touchpoints for the smartphone generation, the WMF CoffeeConnect telemetry solution offers additional digital services. Among the highlights is the new Service Monitor, an analysis and evaluation tool for trendbased, predictive machine maintenance and care. WMF’s digital strategy is the central foundation on which its holistic and – above all – sustainable solutions packages are built.

These packages based on networking and on data-based optimisation of all valueadded areas of a coffee business – from machines, functions and use concepts to technical and commercial processes and service packages.

WMF Self-Payment Solutions One of the hallmarks of shopping experiences in the digital age is the buyer being made self-sufficient – petrol stations, bakeries, convenience stores and innovative, unmanned coffee stations such as MyAppCafé are just some examples of outlets that provide this option. Nowadays, it is perfectly natural for tech-savvy coffee lovers to buy their favourite beverage at a self-service machine without any assistance, and to use cashless payment options via an app or terminal.

Now, the new WMF Self-Payment Solutions provide a comprehensive range of options for forward-thinking companies that want innovative customer touchpoints to be a feature of their coffee businesses. “Thanks

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to our framework, customers can set up solutions like self-service tills where consumers pay for their beverages without the need for additional staff,” explains Naomi Dietrich, Marketing Manager Digital Solutions in the WMF Group’s Professional Coffee Machines division. The platform accommodates the preferred payment method as well as a range of accompanying functions (such as personalised beverage options) in order to adapt fully to the customer’s wishes. The flexible framework makes it easy to incorporate both widely known payment provider concepts such as Alipay or WeChat Pay and customer specific solutions or apps. Not only that, but it can also be used to scan vouchers and incorporate loyalty schemes by creating dynamic QR codes.

digitalisation to optimise and develop businesses. The digital services supported

by WMF Coffee Connect are an important factor in this entrepreneurial vision.

Continuous bundled monitoring of machine processes produces networked knowledge that plays a vital role in all operational and strategic business decisions. This added commercial value is benefiting a community that is growing in number all the time – at both national and international level. The variety of applications makes it possible to configure the analysis and evaluation tools for use in line with individual needs. They include the new Service Monitor, which is supplementing the standard tools provided with all WMF machine models by adding a report function that is designed to increase efficiency.

Another key aspect of digital retail concepts is their focus on networking the communication of all the parties involved in transactions. Approaches that businesses can take advantage of now revolve around closed information loops in which buyers, products, machines (including coffee machines) and accompanying IT solutions (such as payment apps, till systems and business management software) operate together in a network – like unmanned coffee box systems with or without a robotic arm. WMF coffee machines can play the role of fully integrated participants in these autonomous scenarios thanks to the open interface concept behind the framework that WMF recently launched. This ensures that every aspect of the machines can be operated and monitored reliably – from beverage dispensing control, beverage changes and other functions through to transmitting details of the machine status.

Based on detailed machine data that is relevant to service (such as the number of brewing cycles or grinding cycles), a new algorithm is able to provide trend-based recommendations for the next service date or filter change. This foresight will offer customers and WMF service technicians alike an improved basis for planning upcoming maintenance tasks in the future. The Service Monitor also provides information about recent cleaning procedures. As well as indicating whether a machine is being cleaned correctly, this overview provides specific insights into the status of the machine and any training provision that might be necessary. By offering end-to-end expertise in machines, processes, service and business, we are able to provide our customers with a central solutions platform for both existing and new business models which exploit the commercial potential of digital change to the fullest possible extent,” explains Renaud Gey, Vice President Strategic Marketing GBU Professional Coffee Machines der WMF Group.

Business intelligence Beyond networked machine technology, WMF is using the possibilities offered by

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The Popularity of Coffee Shops Commercial Coffee

Coffee shops are now a staple of high streets up and down the country with the established power houses Starbucks and Costa remaining popular but with more local, independent coffee shops challenging these coffee giants there is now an influx of choice coffee lovers. The coffee industry has seen sustained growth in the UK over the last decade and shows no signs of slowing down and with winter well and truly upon us and more of us needing a refuge from the harsher weather, we look at the reasons why coffee shops have become so popular.

A comfortable, relaxed social space There is a warm, cosy décor and calming atmosphere that people associate with a coffee shop. They provide a comfortable setting to consumers for any social interaction with Local coffee shops being perfect place to meet friends or family members whilst also giving you the sense of feeling attached to the local community. The aromas from the roasting of the coffee beans and coupled with the sounds from

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Choice, choice, and more choice Long gone are the days where the only options when ordering a coffee were ‘white or black?’, now there is a wide range of choice within all coffee shops the caters for the tastes of all coffee fanatics. Ranging from espressos, americanos, mochas, lattes, and that’s even without any speciality coffees that each independent coffee shop may offer or any seasonal offerings, (who doesn’t love a cinnamon festive option). Of course, it doesn’t just stop at coffee with hot chocolates, tea or plenty of varying soft drinks available for any hot drink avoiders.

A possible work location Wi-fi is a necessity nowadays and a lot of people will choose a coffee shop based on whether there is free wi-fi for customers.

Providing wi-fi allows the coffee shop to become a haven for anyone needing a break from the office or for those who are working from home it can offer a welcome break from the usual routine, which has been increasingly apparent during the COVID-19

pandemic. Due to the relaxed atmosphere and comfortable setting coffee shops are also increasingly becoming chosen meeting grounds for informal business meetings.

With Britain becoming a coffee loving nation, coffee shops are here to stay so when restrictions ease in your area, why not pop out to a local business and grab a cuppa!

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Easy vegan for Veganuary Rational UK has put together a selection of vegan recipes that are available to download for free via the company’s ConnectedCooking app. The recipes have been created to help foodservice operators come up with tasty, satisfying vegan options just in time for Veganuary.

One of the difficulties with vegan recipes, especially for chefs that aren’t used to vegan cooking, is getting them right. These new recipes are designed for use with Rational’s iCombi Pro combi steamer and iVario multifunctional cooking system, and make it easy to add great tasting vegan dishes to the menu. For example, Rational’s vegan macaroni cheese is a cinch to cook, using the iVario to cook the pasta and create the sauce, and the iCombi to bake it off, once the pasta and sauce are combined.

fish and chips (centred around banana blossom rather than fish!) to Japanese soufflé pancakes… along with tempting desserts such as baked apple crumble and raspberry doughnuts. Completing the recipe list are the macaroni cheese (using vegan cheese), cauliflower steak with chermoula sauce, and split pea dhal.

To get the recipes, simply download Rational’s Connected Cooking app (available free in the App Store or on Google Play) and search for the recipe you’re after.

The company is continually adding new options to its recipe library all the time.

“The demand for vegan food was always going to grow,” says Ross Crook, regional development chef at Rational UK. “However, the pandemic has given it an even bigger push, by focusing peoples’ minds on issues such as healthy diets and the environment – and vegan food ticks both boxes.”

RATIONAL is the leading provider in hot food preparation equipment and, with the iCombi Pro and the iVario multifunctional cooking system, the company delivers 95% of all conventional cooking applications.

Rational’s ConnectedCooking allows operators to monitor, manage and update their Rational appliances remotely, from a PC, tablet or smartphone. iKitchen is the combination of the iCombi Pro, iVario Pro and ConnectedCooking – iKitchen delivers the best kitchen management and the best cooking solutions.

Initially Rational has put together seven vegan recipes, which have been handpicked by the company’s expert chefs.

Collectively they showcase just how varied a vegan menu can be – from vegan

For information and brochures, or to find out about free Rational Live online demonstrations, call +44 (0)1582 480388, freephone 0800 389 2944 or visit www.rational-online.com

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Scottish compostable packaging firm is 75th fastest growing company in the UK Vegware, the global plant-based disposables specialist, has ranked 75th in this year’s Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 list of Britain’s private companies with the fastest-growing sales, and just fourth among the Scottish firms. Reporting 43% growth from 2019 to 2020, the manufacturer of compostable cups, tableware and takeaway packaging features in growth rankings for the second time in 2020.

Vegware also has the fastest growing international sales, topping all Scottish companies in the 2020 Sunday Times International Track 200, ranking 37th fastest in the UK. From its Edinburgh HQ, Vegware has seen clients across the globe choosing its bio-based and compostable foodservice packaging solutions. It has clients in over 70 countries around the world, with distribution throughout Europe, the Middle East, South America, and the Caribbean, and operational bases in the UK, USA, Hong Kong and Australia.

Its impact on packaging end-of-life solutions is also growing. Now, trade composting collections are available for Vegware

packaging in 55 of the UK’s largest towns and cities, covering 72% of the UK’s urban population.

“Growing sales to over £42.5m in 2020 from £30.8m in 2019 is a fantastic result which validates our mission and reflects the global appetite for high quality foodservice packaging which drives a sustainability agenda as well as offering hygiene,” commented Vegware founder and CEO Joe Frankel.

“2020 has been a testing year for everyone, and we have been endlessly impressed by the creativity and resilience shown by our friends in foodservice. We’re pleased that our products have played a part in allowing many food businesses to keep on serving.

We’d like to say a huge thank you to all our clients, to our raw material suppliers, and to our bank, Santander, for their support through a challenging period.”

This year’s Fast Track special Covid-19 edition also highlights the contribution that private companies have made to the UK during the pandemic.

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Contract Lighting

Trends for 2021 by Industville Biophilic Design We are finding more and more customers asking for advice about how to create a sense of wellbeing at home. I predict that human-centric design will be the next big thing in lighting. It is based around the theory of Biophilic design - a scientifically proven philosophy of our innate connection with nature and natural elements. Modern humans spend about 90% of their time indoors, which has resulted in an outcry for a deeper connection with nature.

Lighting plays an important role in this and has inspired architects to use nature as the framework, allowing aspects of nature to be built into the indoor environment.

Considering the placement of lights and layering different types of fixtures to create the illusion of plenty of natural light is key.

Handcrafted lighting, made using raw materials, not only enhances the look and feel of a natural design scheme, but is also a durable option that is made to last; a great choice for the environment too.

Multi-functional homes With the trend to ‘work from home’ set to continue and grow further in 2021, it is vital that our homes are multi-functional. This means not only being practical for working life but still maintaining an atmosphere where people can relax and switch off at the

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end of the day. This will involve flexible layouts and improved technology for everything from heating and lighting to security. The homes of the future are going from smart to intelligent.

Socioeconomic factors Socioeconomic factors continue to influence consumer choices and hence the buying process as a whole. Instead of buying constantly low priced and low-quality goods, customers are searching for products that will last longer, which do not hurt the environment and that they are proud to own. Home and room sizes may be getting smaller however, people are house proud and see their homes as a place of relaxation and enjoyment, as well as a reflection of their personality. Perhaps one positive to come out of the pandemic is that we have all had the chance to re-assess how we live and what we buy. People are more concerned over how their products are made, choosing more sustainable, natural and eco-friendly goods from companies they trust.

I believe we will see a huge trend for sustainability in 2021, with people keen to save energy and use natural materials wherever possible. Where lighting is concerned this means using energy saving bulbs with good quality lights that will last.

Online shopping has also seen a huge growth and customers are now very comfortable obtaining inspiration online from company websites, blogs, apps and social media. They expect free delivery and returns as well as finance options as standard. I can see online shopping and conscious sustainable purchases becoming the norm in years to come, rather than a fleeting trend.

Statement lighting is having a moment with outsized or industrial chandeliers bringing all out glamour. The latest innovations mean that you don’t have to completely overhaul a scheme in order to make a difference. 2021 will see more waterproof pendants and giant floor lamps which are ideal for those who like their lighting to make a statement.

We are finding that customers are really knowledgeable about interiors and what they want to achieve from the space in which they live. We often advise customers to approach the lighting in a layered manner and embrace the full range of lighting sources available from pendants and wall lights to recessed and track lighting, which will allow them to create a space that is both practical and atmospheric.

For more information, please visit: www.industville.co.uk

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Gong Go From Strength to Strength Contract Lighting

Gong are the go-to lighting brand for interior designers, architects, hotels and restaurants all around the world. Now with a brand new pop-up shop on Kings Road London you can see this exquisite lighting up close.

Open 7 days a week from 11am-6pm you can view a stunning selection of floor, table and wall lamps, ceiling lights and dedicated collections in everything from brass and silk to glass and linen.

Ceiling Lights Gong has a wonderful array of lights for all rooms and all occasions. Its stunning ceiling light selection includes chandeliers, pendants and suspended styles in metallic and colourful materials. The Peggy Teal Six Shade Chandelier above is crafted from metal and brass and also comes in black, white and biscuit. Ideal as a centrepiece for living areas, dining rooms and openplan spaces, it provides excellent task and ambient lighting in one. For something sculptural, the Kelopak Pendant is a unique design made of zippers, which is available in three sizes and appears like a cloud floating elegantly above, while the Tarya Ceiling Rectangle in

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metal and brass is available in black, as shown, or white, and looks stunning in a kitchen or open-plan area. Adding a futuristic touch, the Ant Ceiling Shade also comes in white or black and is perfect for a Scandi look.

Wall Lights Ambient lighting is a must for any room, especially living areas and bedrooms.

Teamed with table lamps for task lighting and an overhead pendant shade for an all-round glow, wall lights can contribute to a layered lighting effect, which suits all seasons and all times of the day. The Eclipse Wall Light above opens and closes to reveal a luxurious black and gold design that oozes Art Deco styling. The Tarya Teal design meanwhile blends an on-trend teal and metallic body for contrasting colour and is also available in black, white or full brass.

Adding a burst of vibrancy is the Murano Pill Wall Light, which is made from glass blown in Murano with colours to complement or contrast with your décor. The Matahari in linen and teak meanwhile, is available as a wall or ceiling lamp for a versatile design inspired by the art of origami.

Table and Floor Lamps A beautiful collection of table and floor lamps is also available, with designs, styles and sizes to suit every space. The Tree range above comes in antique brass and metal with black, grey and white shades.

Jo is particularly fond of using this mix within living areas and bedrooms for a versatile look. “Living rooms and bedrooms often need to be bright in the morning and relaxing and cosy at night,” she says.

“Layering different types of lighting such as table or floor lamps with wall or ceiling lighting will allow you to achieve this effortlessly. Not only will layering light sources add depth and texture, but it will also ensure you can adjust the lighting throughout the day to alter the ambience.

Task lighting for reading is also essential and often this can be achieved by placing a lamp on a side table in a living room, or using two lamps or wall lights either side of the bed in a bedroom setting. My advice is to add drama with large lamps or statement designs and if possible, have lights on dimmers that can also be controlled independently from each other.”

Background: Timeless Design Gong’s founder Jo Plismy is passionate about timeless design combined with the finest quality materials and expert artisan craftsmanship. “Our focus is on style with atmosphere,” explains Jo. “It all started when I visited London in my mid-twenties.

I grew up in Belgium in a home full of 20th century furniture, surrounded by Asian and African art dealers. This is where my passion for eclectic and timeless objects began and I would often be found browsing for hours in markets at the weekends. Opening my interiors boutique on Portobello Road in 1999 seemed like a natural progression and when a second Gong boutique opened on Fulham Road a few years later, I began to design my own lighting. The popularity of those creations inspired me to do more and so I turned my attention exclusively to lighting design.”

Gong is a true family business and has grown substantially to become a high-end supplier to domestic and residential projects as well as wholesale; supplying shops, interior designers, architects and specifiers alike.

Inspired Thinking Jo’s inspiration comes from many sources and whether it’s vintage mid-century piece of furniture or a Victorian trinket, she specialises in reinvention, dreaming up wonderfully exciting lighting designs that not only illuminate a space but also give it a focal point and statement centrepiece.

“The Gong collections are unique,” adds Jo. “And their eclectic nature is what sets them apart from traditional high street finds.

I believe that lighting can instantly change the entire atmosphere of any room, thanks to its decorative nature, the shape, material, texture and the light itself.” Jo goes on to say that it’s also the warmth of the light and how this is diffused throughout the room that can make all the difference. “Some of our designs have a shade with a golden interior to provide this warm hue,” she explains, “while others allow for a beautiful reflection on the walls and some use transparent fabric that changes colour once the light is switched on. This is what I love the most about lighting, the combination of shapes and materials to create different atmospheres and emotions.”

For further information on Gong Lighting please visit: www.gong.co.uk

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Things to consider with the lighting in your restaurant Contract Lighting

One of the most important aspects of a diners’ experience is the ambiance of the restaurant and this is key to setting the mood of diners. Ambiance encompasses everything from the themes and colour, to furniture and wall decor and even the tone of the music. Restaurant lighting is an important element of your restaurant’s overall design and therefore vital to get it right.

Setting the Mood Of course, restaurant lighting plays a part in setting the mood and the lighting you choose should reflect the concept and general design of your restaurant. Ultimately a higher-class restaurant typically used for romantic occasions would be encouraged to have dim mood lighting enhanced with stylish tabletop candles or lanterns. This portrays an aura that encourages diners to extend their experience by eating slower, potentially ordering the full three courses with additional drinks, and consequently taking their time, savouring the occasion.

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Conversely, a more casual establishment focussing on quicker service and a more relaxed dining option would be better in using vibrant, creative and bright lights to reflect this fast paced, casual experience.

Your ideal lighting can be achieved in several ways. Pendant lights, recessed lighting, and even wall lamps or ceiling fans can help bring vibrancy to your space. If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly and natural look, natural lighting from large windows will bring the outside in.

The Influence of Instagram One of the most used hashtags on Instagram is #foodporn which shows how Restaurants have become destinations for social media users to upload and share photos of their meals and this has led to the growth of food and lifestyle bloggers and influencers. With more people taking photos whilst in the restaurant, you always want to make sure your restaurant is represented positively so

you should consider how the lighting in your establishment is affecting their photos. A glowing review can do great things for your business’ reputation, but beautiful photos can as well. Test out the lighting in your place to see how snapshots look when taken with an iPhone. The popularity of social channels, especially Instagram, has changed the way people think about dining out. When dreaming up restaurant designs, it would be wise to consider how your food and drinks will look on smartphone screens. Lighting can make or break the Instagram-worthiness of photos, so take that into account when picking out lamps and fixtures.

Let there be light!

There are many things to be considered when creating the ambiance for your restaurant, what emotions do you want to emit from your diners when they are in your establishment? Whatever your answer to that question is, will form the requirements for your lighting.

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Blue Badger become latest Approved Supplier to Sirius Buying Group Major buying group of electrical appliance and kitchen retail solutions, Sirius Buying Group, is pleased to announce Blue Badger Wholesale Ltd is the latest Approved Supplier to facilitate its exclusive group of retail members.

Steve Jones, Commerical Director, Sirius Buying Group says, “Creative thinking and teamwork are core values in our industry and we are thrilled to welcome Blue Badger as our latest Approved Supplier to the group.

As we look to next year, exploring new markets and making new connections is going to be critical in business, so sharing expertise and working together is the only way we’re going to survive and safeguard retail supply and demand.”

Established in 2007, Blue Badger is a leading supplier of commercial catering and laundry equipment and will fast become a ‘go-to’ supplier for Sirius members in need of commercial glass and dishwashers, display chillers and chest freezers, as well as washing machines and products for beauty salons, care homes and key service providers. Based in Andover, Blue Badger distributes across the UK from its logistics hub in the North of England and ensures a rapid, professional service with disposals and next day deliveries all available for a nominal charge.

After 13 years in business, Mark Alexander, Managing Director at Blue Badger was keen to break into new markets - like property development, the public sector and local businesses – in order to work with companies that prefer the exceptional quality of service that comes with a local independent retailer.

“We are very proud to join the elite group of Approved Suppliers to Sirius and look forward to looking after its growing members-network. We currently have a very special display offer exclusively for group members like our Whirlpool 6th Sense laundry range, which is hugely popular and is exclusively distributed by us in the UK” says Mark Alexander, Managing Director, Blue Badger.

“Sirius Members will also benefit from preferential pricing for a limited time on these models, so we hope, they have some bestselling, large-capacity laundry appliances to offer their customers and increase profit margins” says Mark. “I believe that once members have our products on

display, it will help to drive sales for the group and provide retail customers with a chance to appreciate and engage with something slightly different that is incredibly good value for money.”

“Every member will have a dedicated Blue Badger Account Manager to ensure a smooth ordering process, plus the option to expedite the sale using our Quick order facility online. We will also be offering a special rebate to all Sirius Members and for added support, we have introduced an online marketing feature so dealers can quote for a product and offer a complete price to their customers in real-time.”

“One of our clients has always been very enthusiastic about his involvement with the group and suggested we approach them about becoming a supplier given our broad product portfolio. We have occasionally supplied some Sirius Members in the past and so are thrilled to be able to reach a much larger network of specialist dealers, which appeal to a broad spectrum of consumers with links to catering and the commercial sector.”

“We are very excited about bringing our products to even more customers nationwide with leading brands like Vestfrost, Whirlpool, Foster, Diamond, DC, Elcold and Hoshizaki. We also supply the Sterling Pro range, which has been designed with the independent retailer in mind due to its solid and reliable product collection. With over 50 products available, this range offers exceptional value and potential for greater margins so over time, we all grow together” concludes Mark.

Sirius Buying Group is here to help independents accelerate their growth with a strong, competitive edge and one-toone business support. It offers collective trade purchasing power of more than £100 million, which comprises over 175 members and over 250 UK retail outlets. Approved Members to Sirius reap the benefits of improved margins, greater financial security and exclusive opportunities to increase profitability through specially negotiated terms with group Approved Suppliers.

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‘Killer cash flow’ could destroy UK laundries and cost 24,000 jobs “Dire.” That’s the current state of the commercial laundries servicing the hospitality market, according to the Textile Services Association (TSA). 24,000 jobs in hospitality laundries are on the line and, despite repeated calls for help, the government has done little or nothing. Now there’s a new fear – killer cash flow. It works like this: in March, the hospitality market starts opening up with the so-called bounce back. Laundries come back on line to service hotels, leisure centres and restaurants. In March and April the laundries have work, but they also have costs, from day one: wages, fuel, transport and so on. But at this stage, no money is coming in. Why? Because the accepted model for most hospitality laundries is to invoice at the end of month – and then they typically get paid on around 60 days. And that’s the point at which many hospitality laundry businesses will get the final nail in their coffin.

“Government inaction is driving the industry into the ground,” says David Stevens, CEO of the TSA. “We’re not asking for special treatment, we just want the support that other businesses are getting. Rates relief would be a start. Amending the guidance to local authorities on discretionary grants, so that we can be included. Deferment of VAT until payback is viable. Extending the terms of government loans until we can afford to repay them, and making more available during bounce back.

“Cash: that, in a word, is what we need.”

The TSA fought long and hard to get laundries included in the government support schemes. It finally achieved success when it was announced that companies that supplied the hospitality sector, and relied on it for most of their business, would be eligible for discretionary grants from the local authority. “Now that ‘success’ feels like a kick in the teeth,” says Stevens. “We’re just not getting anywhere. Virtually every laundry that has applied has been turned down.

“Yet again our industry is being ignored. We are part of the hospitality sector and will not survive without support. What’s it going to take to get some action? Another 24,000 people on the dole?”

The TSA is the trade association for the textile care services industry. The TSA represent commercial laundry and textile rental businesses. Membership ranges from family-run operations through to large, multi-national companies.

Visit www.tsa-uk.org for more information.

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Why you should consider using Miele professional washing machines These Commercial Washing Machines are perfect for all your laundry requirements, and here are a few reasons why…...

Efficient Washing Machine that runs for ages!

The components of these washing machines are so strong that simply pointing out that they are built to last doesn’t do them justice.

In fact, these washing machines are so well built, that they’ve even been proven to have the ability to run for 8 hours per day, every day, for 10 years! So with the Miele Professional range, you don’t get that constant fear of your machines breaking down on you. Instead, you get reliable machines that generate money for many years to come.

They’re cheap to run Everything about the Miele Professional range screams “EFFICIENCY!” These machines have impressively low water and energy consumptions, which is a key factor for any successful business. The less electricity and water needed to run the machines, the cheaper each load costs you – making these a great way to increase your profit margins!

Exceptional cleaning results your guests will love These commercial washers will provide your guests a level of cleaning they simply cannot get elsewhere!

The Miele Professional range provides such a thorough clean, they are even able to meet hospital standards.

Because for hospitals, having powerful washing machines that can remove stains from soiled garments is an absolute must.

And meeting the CQC standards is a legal requirement, to prevent the garments from harbouring nasty diseases…

Now imagine bringing that cleaning power to your business. How likely do you think it would be for your customers to complain about the cleanliness of their laundry? That’s right! It’s VERY unlikely.

The reality is, washing machines like these are going to produce happy customers who will be more likely to post a positive review about their stay.

So there you have it Those are the top reasons why we believe the Miele Professional range of washing machines should be considered for your professional laundry requirements if you are looking to make a change in 2021.

For more information please visit: www.miele.co.uk

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‘2021 Bathroom Trends’ with British manufacturer, Imperial Bathrooms Specialists in the design and manufacture of classic and contemporary British-made bathroom solutions, Imperial Bathrooms, reveal the latest trends in ceramic ware, furniture, brassware, accessories and lighting that are set to inspire your creative ideas for the bathroom in 2021…

“This year has definitely had its challenges and for me, it has been fascinating to see how this has influenced so many to turn to home-improvement as a way to take back some control and create a much needed escape. In fact, we have seen increased demand for bathrooms that offer authentic custom design elements and I believe, as the bathroom continues to become more of a deeply personal space next year, it will play a vital role in providing the ultimate place to decompress and luxuriate in” explains James Stevenson, Creative Director at Imperial Bathrooms.

SEEKING SANCTUARY: The need for a soothing bathroom space has never been more important and as a dominant trend in 2021, we will see the bathroom evolve into a space that not only cleanses you, but also improves your health and wellbeing by providing a private area to relax and unwind.

Creating a bathroom, which is organised and free from clutter is therefore going to be essential next year with generously proportioned vanity units and value-adding accessories climbing to the top of the bathroom wish-list. Equally, ambient lighting is also going to play a prominent role by helping to create that all-important peace and tranquillity; so don’t underestimate the importance of strategic bathroom lighting, as soft, warm light really can influence your mood and state of mind.

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ULTRA LUXE: With escapism high on everybody’s agenda, the bathroom needs to be beautifully deluxe and this will see trends shift towards opulent finishes, luxury stone surfaces and a bold signature style not so different from a boutique spa or 5* hotel bathroom. Providing untold personal enrichment, the addition of rich metallic finishes, marble countertops and rococoinspired hardware is going to become the go-to for raising the comfort factor in your bathroom, as well as ornate basin stands and curvaceous brassware that achieve an air of grandeur. This will also shine a light on complementary accessories in 2021, with a preference for extra fine detailing like ornate gilded lion feet to elevate your freestanding bath, colour-matched mirrors that coordinate with the bathroom furniture through to ceramic lever handles, soap dishes, tumblers and towel rails for a truly grandiose look and feel throughout!

BOLD EXPRESSIONS: Opting for colourful designs in the home is going to continue to grow in popularity, offering a new-found way to express individual style and character through the power of colour. Vanity units and framed mirrors are adopting this type of bold design to add a dash of character, with an emphasis on more traditional British colours like green and blue.

The bathroom will also look to black hero pieces in 2021, with furniture, ceramic ware, brassware and accessories taking on a darker appearance to bring a striking element, which is glamourous and high-drama. In fact, we recommend a bold mix of black, green, blue and white next year, with a focus on hand-painted finishes and glazed surface treatments.

TIMELESS DESIGN: Designing a bathroom around a centrepiece is a sure way to create impact and introduce that immediate ‘wow factor’, and stately ceramic ware remains a top choice for the design-savvy. Increasingly drawn to the beauty of a freestanding statement bath or striking pedestal basin design, tomorrow’s bathroom will look to authentic, handcrafted items that create a breath-taking focal point with timeless appeal: after all, nothing says luxe more than a beautifully crafted freestanding tub. There is huge value in choosing traditionally-made ceramic ware as it is inherently timeless, able to stand the test of time and will never outdate. Popular architectural styles in 2021 will embrace the flavours of Edwardian, Victorian and Art Deco-style ears with basins, WCs and high definition baths coming to the fore as firm favourites in the classic bathroom.

For further product information and design advice from Imperial Bathrooms, please contact: 0870 606 1623 or visit: www.imperialbathrooms.com Imperial Bathrooms: Unit 1-7, Empire Industrial Estate, Brickyard Road, Aldridge, West Midlands WS9 8UD

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Travel

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Little Emperors Shares Top Travel Trends & Destinations For 2021 Little Emperors sees surge in enquiries for wellness escapes, familiar favourite hotels and destinations to work from holiday

Little Emperors, the private members luxury hotel club with 35,000 members and 4,000 of the best luxury hotels globally on its books, is pleased to share its top travel trends and top destinations for 2021.

Following the news of the vaccine, travel is beginning to pick up and the desire for a holiday abroad has never been higher.

Top Travel Trends for 2021: - Workations - As people look to take that one long holiday and work from abroad with the average length of stay increasing from 7-14 nights - Wellness Holidays – Wellness bookings are up by 30% in comparison to this time last year - Familiarity - 75% of bookings since May 2020 have been to hotels that members have visited before Top Travel Destinations for 2021: - Seychelles - February Half Term bookings are up by 30% - Maldives - February Half Term bookings are up by 30% - Dubai - February Half Term bookings are up by 20% - France - Ski bookings are up from beginning of February when France is due to open Workations With the rise of the digital nomad and remote working being the new normal, people can take advantage of the opportunity to sub-let their flats and temporarily move abroad. With hotels offering incentives to encourage guests to book longer stays, Little Emperors has already seen the average length of stay double from 7 to 14 nights over the last few months as travellers continue to ‘work from holiday’ and 70% of the bookings in the last few months have been extended after the guest has checked in, and this trend will no doubt continue well in 2021.

Rebecca Masri, Founder of Little Emperors comments: “Working from holiday has never been so timely, I’ve been staying in the Maldives for a few weeks now, and currently at the Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, a natural UNESCO Biosphere Reserve wilderness. I couldn’t recommend it more.

With large beach and overwater villas, plenty of desk spaces with good natural

light, stunning views, and complimentary tea and coffee in the room, working from here has been a dream. Also, this hotel also benefits from an award winning spa and ayurvedic retreat, with life-changing benefits of Ayurveda and Yoga Therapy. Wellness and mindfulness is already an existing trend in the travel industry, and since the pandemic, has just strengthened as health is the forefront of many people’s minds.”

Wellness Holidays Rebecca Masri, Founder of Little Emperors comments: “Wellness has already been an increasing underlying theme in the travel industry. Health awareness, mindfulness and wellbeing is at the forefront of people’s agenda, and I believe this trend influences future travel plans. A few years ago, ‘Wellness Travel’ would have meant nothing more than a hotel with a gym and sauna to most people. Today, the growing demand has led to the opening of many great hotels offering all different types of wellness, from weight loss, detox, fitness, recovery, rejuvenation, relaxation, yoga, retox, beauty, medical, stress relief.. even tantric!”

75% of Bookings to Familiar Hotels Little Emperors has seen a pattern emerge as members are returning to book familiar favourites. 75% of bookings since May 2020 have been to hotels that members have visited before. Rebecca Masri, Founder of Little Emperors comments: “Covid-19 has put a halt on the desire for adventure and instead people are wanting to feel a sense of familiarity on holiday by returning to destinations where they feel safe and have fond memories.”

Top Travel Destinations for 2021 Little Emperors has seen a 30% increase in booking to the Seychelles, a 20% increase in bookings to the Maldives and a 20% increase in bookings to Dubai within the last month. The Seychelles is proving to be the most popular choice for our members as it’s proving to be a slightly cheaper option.

These destinations offer plenty of sunshine, and some incredible hotels to enjoy with added benefits and unbeatable value when booking with Little Emperors.

Following the announcement that ski resorts will open in France at the end of January, Little Emperors has received a surge in interest for French ski resorts as travellers are eager to experience the slopes this year.

More information: littleemperors.com 45

Travel

Kagi Maldives Spa Island Officially Opens A Wellness Experience in the North Male Atoll The Wellness-Focused Resort Offers a Holistic Retreat for Mind, Body and Soul

The five-star Kagi Maldives Spa Island has officially opened in the North Male Atoll.

The boutique 50-villa property provides couples, friends and solo travelers with a 360° wellness experience, just a 15-minute seaplane or 60-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport.

Design & Rooms Kagi has partnered with esteemed architect Yuji Yamazaki on the design of the resort. At the heart of the island sits Kagi’s 1500-square-meter spa and wellness hub, complete with an open-air, teardrop-shaped sky roof at its core. Kagi also houses a stateof-the-art gym, two restaurants, three bars, a dive centre and a house reef.

Guests can choose from three room types, a Beach Pool Villa, a Lagoon Pool Villa or an Ocean Pool Villa, all of which are distinguished by their unique locations and house a private pool, a sun deck and an expansive indoor-outdoor bathroom.

Spa & Wellness Positioned at the lagoon of the island, Kagi’s Baani Spa offers a personalized, outcomefocused wellness programme that will take guests on a journey to Release, Restore and Regain. A fully integrated wellness centre, the spa consists of four treatment rooms with outdoor bathing facilities, a relaxation lounge, beauty salon, fully-equipped yoga and sound-healing studio, steam rooms and a spa wellness boutique. Alternative therapies including crystal and sound healing, lifestyle and health coaching and nutrition lessons will complement a comprehensive range of beauty and massage treatments.

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Dining Kagi houses two restaurants, three bars and an expansive wine cellar. The resort’s fusion cuisine takes inspiration from the geographical ‘ring of fire’ that surrounds the Maldives, from the highly spiced and fragranced cuisine of South East Asia to the bold, fiery flavors of South America and Oceania.

Health & Safety The health and safety of its guests is of utmost importance to the team at Kagi Maldives Spa Island. The resort’s innovative mobile app will allow guests to reduce contact and maintain social distancing through functions such as self-check in, restaurant reservation and menu preselection, housekeeping requests and more, while doubling up as a room key.

This, alongside the strictest adherence to international hygiene and cleanliness standards, ensures a safe stay without compromising on guests’ luxurious holiday experience.

For full details of the property’s COVID-19 precautionary measures, please contact the team at Grifco (contact details below).

Nightly rates at Kagi Maldives Spa Island start from $915 per night. Based on two people sharing a Lagoon Pool Villa and including daily breakfast. Rates include 12% GST. Book by 23rd December 2020. Valid on stays completed by 23rd December 2020.

For more information on Kagi Maldives Spa Island, please visit: www.kagimaldives.com

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RAKxa A New Integrative Wellness & Medical Retreat Travel

This brand new fully integrative wellness and medical treat will offer a transformation experience through three- to-fourteen day programmes in the heart of a jungle clad island across from Bangkok on the Chao Phraya River

RAKxa is thrilled to announce the first phase of its opening in Bangkok, Thailand on 1st December and looks forward to welcoming international guests as soon as it’s safe to do so. Set in Bangkok’s preserved ‘Green Lung’, a protected jungle-clad island on the Chao Phraya River, RAKxa will deliver tailored wellness programmes designed by certified medical doctors combining advanced medical treatments with revered holistic therapies alongside renowned Thai hospitality, resulting in a world-class medical destination. Guests can expect 27 villas and one restaurant Unam when visiting from 1st December, with a further 33 villas and two residences set to open in 2021 in the second phase along with an extended menu of activities and treatments, and a second restaurant serving speciality Asian cuisine.

With long- term tourist visas for foreign travel to Bangkok available for 90 day stays and longer, what better time to escape the UK and plan that winter- sun wellness relocation.

This ground-breaking enhanced wellness retreat is the first of its kind in Thailand and promises a fully transformative experience through personalised three-to-fourteen day programmes with long-term health goals in mind. RAKxa’s programmes include Detox, Weight Management, Gut Health, Mobilisation, De-Stress, Facial Solution, Body Solution, Facial & Body Solution, Immunity Booster and a Discover RAKxa programme. RAKxa’s transformative experience begins at home and carries on long after guests leave, unearthing a complete blueprint of health that enables certified medical doctors from VitalLife, a subsidiary of Bumrungrad International Hospital, and holistic therapists to prescribe a precise treatment plan based on one of the 10 packages available. VitalLife medical doctors work alongside experts of timehonoured healing disciplines in RAKxa’s Holistic Wellness Centre, bringing science and tradition together. RAKxas’ holistic treatments span Traditional Thai Medicine (TTM), Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurvedic treatments and energy healing practices.

Completing the wellness journey is a high-tech medical gym with Olympic athlete training equipment, hydrothermal spa facilities, an anti-inflammatory food philosophy, a cleansing tea lounge, an organic garden, and an enticing menu of workshops and activities. RAKxa will offer 60 private villas and two residences each

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nestled by a lake surrounded by flourishing botanical gardens all in neutral tones to ensure a gentle atmosphere, creating an environment to heal and restore.

Located within a lush and expansive botanical garden, RAKxa is separated from the rest of Bangkok by a winding river, accessible by both boat and car, just an hour from both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang International Airports, yet it feels like a world away. RAKxa has restored and repaired the ecosystem in an area of Bang Krachao that had been degraded and damaged over time. From planting thousands of local trees and flowers, soil regeneration, and waste clearance, to supporting local farmers and gardeners in organic farming methods, the RAKxa concept goes above and beyond.

Abundant with fresh air and with gazes of green in every direction, the rural location is like stepping back in time, to a Bangkok before sky-scrapers and buzzing traffic.

Local Design at RAKxa A mix of traditional materials and crafts have been used in a contemporary styling to create a medical wellness retreat that has avoided the ‘spa’ look whilst ensuring the crisp, neutral tones are not associated with a hospital. Traditional materials include rattan, bamboo, reclaimed wood, earthwear, ceramics, brass, jute, mulberry paper and water hyacinth. Light colours of teal and gentle greens are used throughout the premises to soothe and restore an element of calm. Showcasing the serene location next to the river, traditional river boats decorate the gym area as well as elements such as old balers used to decorate the walls. RAKxa uses objects throughout the premises that may not traditionally be considered art, such as teapots, chairs and stools. These all have a sense of place and are considered as traditional Thai decor, based on the countries’ history.

One area proudly displays 72 teapots along a shelving unit, all made from a local southern Thai pottery maker and each unique to one another. Using local artisans to create the rugs and woven wall decor, RAKxa exemplifies traditional Thai styling, creating the ultimate wellness retreat where Thai hospitality oozes through the design.

Nightly rates at RAKxa start from $2,000 per person for the Immunity Booster Package, with a minimum of a three-night stay.

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