Hello
Hello
from Fetim Group UK
from Fetim Group UK
Issue one Summer 2015
Fetim brands for every home... QUALITY AND DESIGN ASSURED
NEW online Trade Portal
Designer Piet Boon
products and spares available from stock 24/7, see page 3
selects Solidfloor™ for SuperTrash London store, see page 23
Aqualux launches AQUA25... Sleek new low profile shower trays in a choice of three designs, see page 8
New Products
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from Fetim Group UK
Contents
Hello...
I’m Sandra Hyde, Marketing Manager for Fetim Group UK and I’d like to welcome you to our first edition of “Hello” our new trade magazine. This is an exciting time for all of us as the Fetim Group unfolds its strategy of developing its brand portfolio of highly desirable and complementary products.
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Trade Support New online 24/7 ordering trade portal. Find out about the Field Engineering Service Team.
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Product Categories Showcasing our product brands.
Fetim The Story Read how they grew from timber importers to international trading group.
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Product Previews AQUA25 sleek new low profile shower trays, showering and shower panels.
Trend Report See the latest trend report into the interiors market.
Why Choose Fetim for your Bathroom A one stop shop for
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showering, bathroom accessories, flooring and window fashion.
Insight Window Fashion Rod Harrington shares his knowledge.
Sales Team Update Mike Jones, Fetim UK Sales & Marketing Director introduces his team.
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Investing in Customer Service Meet our Internal Sales Support Team.
Prestigious Projects Total solutions provider of quality interior products for our UK and International clients.
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Look Out A sneak preview of what is planned for the next edition of Hello...
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Front cover photo: B!Organised shelving, Solidfloor™ wooden flooring and Intensions window blind.
Fetim Group UK, Unit 300 Solar Park, Solihull B90 4SH United Kingdom T: +44 (0) 121 395 2000 F: +44 (0) 121 395 2001 E: hello@uk.fetimgroup.com www.fetimgroup.com
We recognised that with our wide portfolio of products we needed a strong but simple way to communicate our product brands and what differentiates them. We have focused our business activities into four core product categories; Showering, Flooring, Shelving and Window Fashion. The new corporate identity of Fetim Group UK enables us to market our individual brands, their values and attributes more effectively and distinctively. You will see more of this over the coming months under our “Hello... we meet again” campaign which has been created to instantly convey to our customers the variety of product brands we offer within each category. We will keep you updated on promotions and new marketing collateral as we roll out the campaign. On behalf of everyone at Fetim UK, we would like to thank you for your support to the business. I hope you enjoy the magazine and find the content useful. Your views are important to us and we welcome feedback. If you would like to share with us what you found interesting or would like more details on any particular topic then please email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com
Sandra Hyde
Marketing Manager Fetim Group UK
Hello... we meet again Some of you may know us as AQUALUX, the number one brand for shower enclosures and bath screens in the UK. We were bought by the Fetim Group in 2012 as the company developed its strategy to build a branded sanitary division. But Fetim Group UK offers much more than sanitary products as you will soon discover. As a leading supplier in bathroom designs we are expanding our sanitary ranges to include bathroom furniture, and widening our showering products to include shower heads, rails, brackets, low profile trays and modular panels see pages 8–11 to preview new products. As a result of our commitment as a total solutions provider for sanitary interiors we have modified the Aqualux logo and strap line from Shower Surrounds to Bathroom Design, to reflect the comprehensive, creative and technical strength of our product offer. OLD
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Trade Support On-line Access 24/7
and stock information with Fetim Group UK Trade Portal At Fetim we are always striving to develop products and services to meet our customer’s needs. Welcome to our latest development; a dedicated Trade Portal providing direct online support to help make life easier for our customers to communicate and conduct business with us. Showering is the first of our product categories to offer this convenient and secure online service. • On-line access to order Aqualux & Haceka products anytime, 24 hours 7 days a week – customers can place orders when it’s convenient to them. • The order is transferred immediately into our internal order system, so there are no delays or order errors. • The Trade Portal is an online platform which enables customers to order stock directly from Fetim Group UK. • The customer will receive an additional discount when registering and using the Trade Portal. • The new stock feed function provides complete transparency to product availability. • After logging in, the first page will show promotions and special net pricing, specific to each customer. • Once a customer is registered with us, log in is easy, making it a simple and efficient way to place orders. • The system has been designed to recognise customer details automatically, including delivery and invoice addresses. • It includes features and images to help with selection and purchasing of products. • In addition to the online product ordering we are now stocking the full range of spare parts for Aqualux Bath Screens and Shower Enclosures. If you are an existing Fetim customer or wish to trade with Fetim, email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com or contact your local Area Sales Manager - contact details on pages 18-19.
Hello...
Meet our Engineering Team
Fetim Group UK have invested in a new fleet of four Ford Transit Custom vans for their field engineers. The engineering team who are technically and multi skilled provide a nationwide service to trade customers and consumers which involves visits relating to installation issues offering advice or assisting with repairs, installation and updates of trade customer point of sale displays, exhibitions and events, merchandising, new product testing, and providing an onsite technical support role to customer services. Rob MacDonald, Fetim Group UK Senior Engineer who heads up the field engineering support team explained “It is very much the company philosophy to serve our customers in the best possible way. It’s a great feeling of satisfaction when you resolve a problem, and we love the fact that we are supporting our sales team and customers. The team all use a Mobile Device Management System which helps us to plan our time and maximise on effectiveness.” To reflect our wide portfolio of products and the facility provided, we have called it the Home Fashion Service Team. The fleet will carry the new “Hello... we meet everywhere” branding which will help build awareness of our campaign to communicate our brands and product offering.
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Product Categories Fetim have focused its business activities into the core product categories; Showering, Flooring, Shelving and Window Fashion. Over the coming months we will be launching new ranges within our product categories, but first we thought it would be helpful to explain our product brands and where they sit in each category.
Showering
Window Fashion
Aqualux the brand market leader of bath screens and shower enclosures in the UK. For over 35 years Aqualux continues to define the design and engineering of bathrooms for homes and leading hotels worldwide. Aqualux provides a wide ranging collection of quality bath screens, shower enclosures, trays, shower heads, rails, taps, drains and sanitary furniture that meets with current design trends. For your copy of Bathroom Style by Design brochure go to www.aqualuxbathroom.com
Intensions the window fashion brand providing ready made and custom blind designs and a wide range of traditional and modern curtain poles. One of the best ways to create impact to a room is to update the windows. Changing from curtains to window blinds is an impressive and affordable way to update any interior. Using high quality fabrics available in a range of colours and shades Intensions are always on trend. For more information visit www.intensions.eu
Haceka a leading European brand in bathroom accessories offering excellent value for money. For over 95 years Haceka have been providing solutions to make your bathroom a statement of great design and personal style. To see the full range go to www.haceka.com
Liedeco have been producing and supplying high quality made to measure and readymade window blinds and sun shading products for over 20 years. The range offers pleated, roller, Venetian, vertical, and roman blinds; curtain tracks, poles and rails. www.liedeco.de/en/
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For more information on our product brands please email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com and specify which brand you are interested in and we will arrange for a sales representative to contact you.
Flooring
Shelving
Solidfloor™, our engineered plank wood flooring, is a popular and reliable choice for commercial projects and domestic installations. Solidfloor™ wood floors have a highly durable structure with a top layer ranging from 3 to 6 millimetres. This ensures that they will last at least a generation. Available in a wide range of options making it a perfect choice for every style and any interior. For more information visit www.solidfloor.com/en/home
B!Organised, the stylish storage solutions provider. Our range of practical, on trend and easy-to-assemble storage items will meet your needs in every room for every occasion. From contemporary floating shelves to sophisticated storage boxes and clever key holders, this is our creative take on getting organised. www.beorganised.com
Flexxfloors is the revolutionary flooring tile made from high quality PVC, suitable for commercial and residential installations. A versatile collection of flooring tiles that can be installed in 3 different methods, stick, click or loose lay. Flexxfloors offer a choice of natural looking finishes, from woods and stones to ceramics ad motifs, available in 6 different qualities, Basic, Premium, Deluxe, Style, Exclusive and Diamond for our latest brochure go to: www.flexxfloors.com
Duraline the brand which provides innovative results for your storage requirements. Organised, attractive, and easy to install. Duraline offers an extensive range of wall shelving, invisibly supported shelving, shelf supports, rail systems and storage racks in a style and finish that coordinate with current interiors styles. Duraline has the fashionable “Listen to Your Shelf” range for information on prices and availability email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com or visit www.duraline.nl/ home-en
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from Fetim Group UK
Fetim: the story For nearly 100 years Fetim Group have been innovators and leaders, always striving to find products that customers wanted and differentiated them from the competition. Today this experience has led to establishing an international trading company specialised in the design, development, marketing and sale
Founded in 1919 by Frans G.J. Beerkens, a visionary and entrepreneur that dared to do things differently. A man with a passion to be distinctive, and establish a business for future generations. Growing up in the Netherlands, under the threat of war, his working life started out selling wood and coal. A move to Randstad led to him working with the pioneer, Anthony Fokker and contributed to the construction of the aircraft, Fokker VII and developing his prudence for spotting an opportunity. Such an example of insight was securing the exclusive rights to sell a revolutionary glue that was both resistant to tropical heat and damp and used in the wing and outer shell construction of the Fokker VII.
of construction products, flooring, home decoration and bathroom fittings. The history is an interesting story of our adaption to change, ensuring Fetim stays at the forefront of developing products in line with latest trends and combined with modern technology, so our product
Following the end of WW1, rapid expansion of the waterways network and development of railways caused congestion and trading difficulties, particularly for a wood specialist. In 1932, Beerkens Senior made the decision to relocate to Rigakade in Amsterdam. This strategically placed location was proved to be a profitable move, clients were now closer and the transportation of trees, beams and planks could take place unhindered allowing the business to grow. Fetim secured the order to supply all highly prized timber to the Royal Tropical Institute for a huge project which would become known as the “Tropenmuseum�.
concepts help our customers be champions in their industry.
See more at www.fetimgroup.com/en
Fetim survived the Second World War, mostly due to the founder’s ability to secure wood supply from alternative sources outside of mainland Europe, and to harness new opportunities quickly. As Europe started to recover, construction was widespread and Africa was beginning to open up; and with that the import of logs, a wood that needed to be stripped and thus Fetim Bekol was founded.
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In the 1970s the DIY market became prevalent and again presented opportunities for the commercially astute Beerkens Senior to develop products and realise his dream of building a business for future generations. Fetim, having established close relationships with DIY and construction suppliers adapted its product range to include parquet flooring, laminate, window frames, staircases, doors and readymade furniture for kitchens. As the DIY market continued to grow, so did the Company. Two more sons, Frans and Willem Beerkens joined the family firm and as the company celebrated its 50th anniversary, its focus moved from wood products to processing synthetic materials and metals for commercial and domestic use. The company went from strength to strength, continually developing. It was with this in mind, 2nd generation, Willem and Frans Beerkens looked to ensure the legacy of their father was prepared for the long term. Further expansion, 30,000 sq.m. was added to the site in Rigakade and then in 2000 having expanded the product portfolio even further, the decision to relocate to the western port area of Amsterdam was made. The Amsterdam location is now Fetim Group headquarters, based at the purpose built Sales & Distribution centre with a modern infrastructure, to stock all product lines and meet the expectations of our customer and suppliers in Amsterdam. However, expansion has not stopped, through the last decade a number of acquisitions have taken place to shape an international business that operates in over 40 different countries. We have 600 employees, 25 individual brands, 15,800 products and we know 30 millions families have at least one Fetim product within their home, so we are making progress on our aim to have at least one Fetim product in every home!
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The overseas expansion has led the company to establish its own Fetim Group Outlets and nurture a presence in the local communities. All our European activities have been bought together under the Fetim Group identity but are managed by the local management team. The company continues to evolve, turn to page 20 to meet the newest members to join Fetim Group UK.
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Product Preview
Aqualux Launch New AQUA25 Low Profile UK Shower Tray Collection At Fetim we constantly monitor market and design trends. Current market forecasts value the UK shower tray market at ÂŁ37million. 25mm high trays have been on the market for just over three years and have quickly established themselves across the trade and retail markets, with predicted growth to 30%. This growth in the low profile sector is due to demand from consumers for a wet room look or walk in shower effect in their homes. In response to this growing trend and the shift towards low profile trays Fetim Group UK have launched an extensive range of stylish 25mm shower trays under the Aqualux brand. The Aqualux range of AQUA25 shower trays deliver both the quality, durability and design aesthetics that will meet all customer expectations both from a budget perspective and performance.
For more information on pricing and availability on the Aqualux Shower Tray Collection email: hello@uk.fetimgroup.com or call your Area Sales Manager.
Aqualux new 25mm low profile shower trays are technically advanced, particularly with regard to water drainage which makes them suitable for use with all shower types including power showers. They have undergone rigorous testing. The trays have been designed with a dedicated high flow, self cleaning vortex waste unit which is engineered to drain water away quickly and efficiently. All of the trays have been tested and have a flow rate of over 33 litres per minute. AQUA25 low profile trays are manufactured in the UK from the finest natural raw materials. There are no plastics or acrylics used in the construction of our trays just 100% pure natural stone resin. Each of the shower tray ranges within the collection have a tough high gloss get coat surface adding durability and making them easy to clean. The new Aqualux 25mm low profile shower tray collections are available in square, rectangle, quadrant and off-set quadrant designs providing real choice to the consumer. Manufactured in the UK, from 100% stone resin the shower trays are tested to over 33 litres per minute. They fully comply with EN274 European standard flow rates. Aqualux shower trays are supplied with a tough and repairable gel coat surface and come with a 12 year guarantee.
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Launching this summer are three new contemporary designs positioned in terms of good, better and best. The AQUA25 Collections are available in a choice of nearly 70 different options, which are suitable for both commercial and residential installations.
AQUA25 Sphere
An attractive 25mm minimalist shower tray has been designed with its own dedicated high flow 90mm chrome dome waste unit. It is available in 20 different sizes ranging from 800 x 800mm to 1700 x 900mm. AQUA25 Sphere has been designed for ultra low profile fitting but also has both a leg and panel set option for easy fit installation. Compatible waste available separately.
AQUA25 Reflection
Offers more advanced design technology. At 25mm high this well designed product can be fitted as a normal shower tray or flush with the tiled floor for level threshold entry, making it suitable for wheelchair access. Tastefully designed with a centrally located waste to give a symmetrical look, together with shallow fall angles create a virtually flat surface and provides a genuine wet room alternative without the associated costs and fitting issues. Available in a wide choice of sizes giving the customer greater flexibility to make the most of the accessible space. Shower trays are available in square, rectangle and quadrant shape designs. High flow vortex waste included.
AQUA25 Definition
Offers market leading design features in water entry and capture. It is beneath the unique 75 x 300mm stainless steel flush fitting waste grid that the superior technology of the tray is employed. Advanced micro water management directs the water flow at the correct velocity through a unique waster flange; effectively the water is drawn from the surface of the tray by the vortex created within the waste unit. The practically flat surface allows the shower tray to be installed flush to the floor for threshold entry and like all our 25mm trays suitable for wheelchair access. Available in a range of sizes.
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AQUARefresh Nozzels
Product Previews
Stylish Showering Solutions from AQUALUX As consumers demand more innovative choices to create their ultimate shower and bathing experience it is no surprise that Fetim have developed a range of showerheads, handsets, shower rails and brackets, which we have previewed for your interest. Aqualux have developed five new different hand shower ranges; CLIQ, STIQ, SELECTION, VIVE and SHINE. The diverse collection of quality showering products, inspired by European design have been produced to meet current interior trends and suitable for both commercial and domestic installations. Installing a hand shower provides both functionality and flexibility. They are perfect for family showering, adaptable to be used over the bath or in combination with a wall mounted showerhead.
Installation Kits – Fixings and Brackets At Fetim, we believe in designing good quality products that are flexible and easy to install in all types of locations, no matter the size or shape of the space available. It is part of our brand values, offering complete solutions. Our shower installation kits provide the key components you need to create the most amazing showering experience.
AQUACliq Hand Shower Collection
The new AQUACliq allows one handed operation to quickly move between the three spray functions at the press of the AQUACliq button. The button is located on the front of the handle naturally where your thumb lands for the easiest and most ergonomic use. The range also features an anti-scald handle and AQUARefresh anti-limescale nozzles to keep the handset looking perfect for life. AQUACliq AQUACliq Mono a practical hand shower which provides an uplifting Rain Air spray function.
Button
Anti-scald handle
Also available the AQUACliq Rail 700 and adjustable brackets for easy installation. The one handed AQUACliq click button gives flexibility and makes this easy to accommodate a range of user heights, from adults to children. For more information on the AQUACliq Kits email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com
AQUAShine Hand Showers
To complement the popular and affordable SHINE shower enclosure collection we will be introducing the AQUAShine Tri and Mono together with the AQUAShine 2. All AQUAShine hand showers are also supplied in ABS chrome with anti-limescale silicone nozzles and anti-scald inner tubes for increased safety. Also being added to this range are AQUAShine and AQUATwist Rails. For further details email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com
AQUAStiq Hand Showers
Offers an alternative in hand shower design, slim and straightforward to use with a single jet option. Ideal for small showering spaces and en-suites.
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AQUAVive Shower Heads In addition to the new collection of hand showers we have developed a limited range of stunning, slim line shower heads that will satisfy the design conscious specifier and the demanding consumer who requires the rainfall experience.
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New Modular Shower Panels from AQUALUX Imagination and vision are the only restrictions for future shower enclosure design as Aqualux previews its range of new products that will transform the wet room market. The collection of modular glass panels offers a completely bespoke solution whatever the bathroom size or shape. Combining convenience and style, the versatile Modular Glass Panels can be combined to create a spacious enclosure to suit any shape or size requirement, offering an easily accessible walk-in shower solution and are the perfect complement to go with the new AQUA25 low profile shower trays. Using the very latest technology, Aqualux’s technical department has developed a state-of-the-art solution that allows modular glass panels to be securely fitted to any wall. The range of six walk-in modular panels are available in 8mm toughened glass depending on which panel you choose.
AQUASelection Hand Showers
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For full product specification details and prices on Aqualux showering solutions email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com
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Trend Report Trendy Scandinavian At Fetim HQ in Amsterdam we have a dedicated team of Trend Scouts who visit European and International Trade Fairs, pore over Interior Design and Architectural magazines, monitor trend related websites, blogs and meet up with industry experts to ensure our products are current.
Our TrendLab is at the heart of pumping ideas and sharing our sources of inspiration to our Product Development Teams and Marketing Department and we will be sharing our trend views and news with you on a regular basis. In the first of our series of trend reports we have bought together Fetim’s diverse product offering and shown you how they work with different interior styles. We hope you find this helpful and we would welcome your feedback and any suggestions you might have. Please email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com
Next issue we will be looking at Bohemian Vintage.
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Creative shelving Clean lines, light and bright are what you typically expect with a Scandinavian interior, using white and neutral tones to resist the darkness that arrives so early in that part of the world. But, home owners are updating this cool look, by adding details and warmth particularly in the use of colour with wall and window decorations. Intensions, our collection of ready made window blinds are available in a wide range of colours and fabrics providing the perfect solution for any type window. Texture and warmth in the selection of furniture and flooring is also something that we are picking up. The neutral tone of Mist from our FlexxFloors Deluxe range complements the Scandinavian theme, and the Nordic and Alaska flooring from the Solidfloor™ Original range add warmth and character to any room.
A Fetim product in every home...
New for 2015: Easy Fix silver blade blinds
Sleek lines in the world of showering
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Why choose Fetim for...
your new bathroom? Fetim Group UK are specialist in the design and development of interior styling products, providing a total solution approach for both commercial and residential installations.
Owners of AQUALUX, the number one brand leader in the UK shower enclosure market we offer a wide choice of bathroom furnishings, from shower enclosures, taps, shower trays, showering solutions and designer drains to practical and flexible bath screens. HACEKA, our bathroom accessories collection is a European market leader and adds the perfect co-ordinated look to complete your bathroom scheme. You can choose from hooks, handles, baskets, toilet roll holders, brushes and dispensers in a variety of styles and finishes. The bathroom furniture, materials and style you choose are key in creating the look and feel you desire, but there are other elements to consider too; the flooring, storage and windows, all of which can enhance a beautiful, open and tranquil space. FLEXXFLOORS is a revolutionary flooring system that is made of high quality PVC and particularly suitable for bathroom installations. If your preference is for natural materials then choose Solidfloor™, another leading European brand available in an extensive collection of colours and textures. Having created your new gorgeous bathroom area, where you can both relax and re-energise, the last thing you want is clutter causing disharmony. The B!ORGANISED broad range of shelving materials, colours and styles is the ideal storage solution. Style and privacy need to be considered for the bathroom window, but you also need to think about the suitability of the material for wet areas. Window blinds are an impressive, yet affordable way to update your look. Chose from our INTENSIONS range that offers a wide variety of Roller, Venetian, Pleated or Vertical blind styles which you can customise to suit your room no matter what the size or shape giving you a truly wonderful window finish. You can be confident when you choose Fetim UK products for your bathroom you will find all that you need. We are passionate about developing quality and affordable products that are functional and flexible to suit every bathroom no matter how big or small.
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For more information on Fetim brands and products please email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com
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Insight Window Fashion by Rod Harrington
The UK Blinds Market is rapidly increasing year on year as interior trends shift from traditional nets and curtains to a more modern and contemporary look. In response to this emerging trend and growing consumer demand Fetim Group UK appointed Rod Harrington as UK Sales Manager for our Window Fashion division.
The UK Home Furnishing industry is predicting healthy growth, with particular interest in the window dressing sector which is currently estimated to be worth a massive 1.4 billion pounds at RSP. At Fetim we promote both ready made and made to measure blinds from both our Intensions and Leideco brands. Our Intensions range of ready made products gives homeowners a way to update their windows quickly and easily. Leideco with its wide variety of elegantly designed and technically advanced made to measure window treatments meet the functional and decorative expectations of our customers.
Rod gives us his views on what is happening in the UK market now and on what we can expect to see over the next 12 months.
Currently, we are seeing a shift with made to measure growing and consolidation in the readymade sector. Consumers are looking for inspiration so retailers must offer variety of styles and designs. Both Intensions and Leideco brands include a wide choice of window fashion options, from the warmth of wood blinds, classic venetian, to the smooth glide of roller blinds and the fashionable pleated look.
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Further opportunities in the window fashion market have been created with the growth of digital printing and this is driving the demand for customisation. Consumers are much more design aware and confident about styling their homes. They want to express their personal style, and customisation of window fashion is an affordable and less risky soft furnishing option. At mid market and entry level the market is very much price and fashion driven. The return of the Chintz with a more modern take is very much on trend. Also we can expect to see more technical fabrics, natural materials and woven textures appearing. The increased call for Scandinavian design, predicted by our own Trend Scouts (see page 12) for bright accents, timber blinds and natural textiles are super-hot right now and can transform almost any space into one that’s lively, bright and beautiful. Tropical is another trend appearing so I expect plantation style shutters and natural wood and bamboo will be a popular choice adding a modern feel to dining rooms as well as home offices. Designers and home owners are also aware of the added value that can be created when choosing the right window treatment. Clearly there is the positive influence of allowing as much natural day light into a room can have, both enriching the look and space but also the feel of a room. Light and temperature control can also provide cost savings, up to 12% on heating bills. Finally having asked Rod for his future predictions on the window fashion business, he commented “Motorisation is coming and it will be big. With the development of improved smaller longer lasting batteries, wireless technology and sound reduction, automatic control of blinds and shutters will be high in demand. But the most immediate growing trend in window fashion is the demand to create custom blinds that provide homeowners with their unique window solution.�
For further information of Intensions and Leideco window fashion brands email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com or call Rod Harrington on 07810 501437.
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Sales Team update Fetim have strengthened its UK sales and marketing management team with newly created appointments and promotions within its sanitary, flooring, window fashion and shelving sales channels. Mike Jones Sales & Marketing Director said: ❝We have strengthened our sales force in line with our increased turnover to ensure we deliver experienced customer and technical service levels that our customers have come to expect from us. This investment demonstrates our commitment to develop the UK market and reflects the home decoration opportunity we envisage both residentially and commercially. We are expanding our professional trade base and developing a sustainable and dynamic e-commerce platform.❞
Fleur Fowler is our National Specification Manager who previously worked at Grohe and Porcelanosa and has over twenty years experience in design and interiors. Fleur’s role is to increase business with architects, interior designers, hotel operators and high end new build projects. She will represent the Group through direct sales efforts including customer retention, identifying new and emerging markets, trade shows and hospitality related events. When asked about her role Fleur said: “I am delighted to be given this opportunity and am eager to embrace the challenge. Fetim Group have some fantastic brands, and I look forward to working with the A & D community and introducing their product offer which has an enviable reputation for superior design and quality.” Contact: f.fowler@uk.fetimgroup.com or tel: 07823 401 010
Rod Harrington joined us last November, as dedicated UK National Sales Manager to the Window Fashion Division, and brings a wealth of experience to the role having run his own business, worked within the industry gaining a detailed knowledge of both the UK market and international markets. Previously a Director at Hallis Hudson, Charles Bell Limited and East Light and Colour. Rod’s responsibilities will include the sale and marketing of Fetim Groups window decoration brands; Leideco® and Intensions®. When asked about his appointment he commented: “I am a business developer by nature and I can see that Fetim has tremendous opportunity, I intend to target key retail multiples and UK distributor channels to develop a significant market share here for the Group. It’s a great family business with really talented people all motivated to create success. The company is big enough to have great resource with a wide product offering, but small enough to be personal and individual.” Contact: r.harrington@uk.fetimgroup.com or tel: 07968 729 287
Chet Singh has appointed to the newly created role of Head of Digital. Chet has considerable experience in digital marketing communications both B2B and B2C having worked in a broad range of industries, including travel, fitness, flooring and plumbing industry. Chet joined Fetim Group UK from Wolseley, and is responsible for the development and implementation of the company’s digital and e-commerce development. Chet said “I am very excited about joining the Fetim Group; there are some great people here, all so helpful and friendly. I am working closely with sales, marketing, customer service and operations to implement our digital transformation throughout the organisation which will deliver real benefits to the business and our customers. We want to make it as easy and seamless as possible for our customers to order from us, and to ensure they have access to the latest product information whether it is pricing, specification, technical details or availability. Contact: c.singh@uk.fetimgroup.com or tel: 0121 395 2085
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Sandra Hyde Marketing Manager Fetim Group UK has over 20 years in marketing having worked across a range of B2B industries including roles at Brintons Carpets and the Waterford Wedgewood Group before joining Aqualux in 2003 as Marketing Manager.
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Bob Hay is Area Sales Manager for Scotland and Ireland. He has considerable experience having worked for nearly three decades in a variety of sales roles from Key Account Manager, Contracts and National Account Manager. He began his career with Fetim Amsterdam in 2004 to head up their UK Trade Division. Bob is responsible for selling all four product categories, Showering, Shelving and Storage, Flooring and Window Fashions to all Trade Accounts in his territory.
Sandra is responsible for the delivery and implementation of Fetim Group UK marketing activities in the UK for all four product categories; developing promotional campaigns for existing and new products across all media communication formats. Reporting directly to Mike Jones, her role has expanded to include account management supporting the UK sales channels in both retail trade and commercial specification markets.
Contact: b.hay@uk.fetimgroup.com or tel: 07771 701 048 KW
Sandra commented “I love the diversity of my role and the variety of challenges its presents. I find it inspiring and motivational to be able to work across the business, with sales, product development, customer service, technical and operations it keeps me in touch with our customer needs. It is also really stimulating to be part of a growing European organisation that really wants to focus on the UK.”
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Colin Grey is Area Sales Manager covering the Midlands and South Wales. Having joined the company in 2007 Colin started his career at Aqualux as the Manager of the Field Technician Team, he was promoted to Commercial Manager managing internal sales and then to UK Operations Manager. Colin’s current responsibilities include managing Key Accounts, Merchant Buying Groups and developing sales of all product categories through independent retailers.
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The North and South Sales Regions are currently vacant. Any enquires please contact Mike Jones email: m.jones@uk.fetimgroup.com
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Contact: c.grey@uk.fetimgroup.com or tel: 07799 384 061
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20 Hello
from Fetim Group UK
Investing in Customer Service Part of the Fetim philosophy is investing in people. The Sales Support and Order Help Desk Team play an important role in delivering reliable and effective customer service. ❝We believe in our people, their personal growth and development to fulfil their potential. We look for talented, enthusiastic people, who love a challenge and work in a team to continuously improve. More profiles of the team will be included in the next edition of “Hello” in the meantime I am pleased to introduce the latest members to join us and welcome back from maternity leave, Zoe Schaefer our Operations Manager. Investing in the customer service experience is part of our sales and marketing strategy. A positive customer experience can help make price less relevant, de-commoditise the products and services you sell, increase recommendations and ultimately improve the bottom line.❞ Alastair Murray, Financial Director for Fetim Group UK
Val Ridlington, Senior Demand & Project Manager is responsible for demand
forecasting and the Sales Support Team of Kelly Harding, Ben Courts and Marie Macmichael. Charley Tasker, Senior Sales Co-ordinator, together with Luke Round, Ben Gatfield and Gemma Allen make up the Sales Order Help Desk Team and they report to UK Operations Manager, Zoe Schaefer.
Charley Tasker, a naturally organised, experienced customer service advisor has been
recently promoted to Senior Sales Co-ordinator. Charley’s responsibilities include training, customer service issues and overall development and management of her team. Charley said “I really enjoy being part of a team and thrive on the day to day challenges that arise, its feels good when you can resolve customer issues and they are happy”
Rebecca Waldron who studied Levels 2 & 3 of The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), an internationally recognised and respected qualification is our Financial Administrator reporting to Alastair Murray. Rebecca said she is enjoying the new role, working with friendly people gaining experience in sales and distribution. Tom Giddings, a graduate from University of Nottingham has joined
Sales Support. Tom, who previously worked for Caterpillar Finance is dealing with day to day credit issues and assisting the Accounts Department. When asked what attracted him to the company, he replied that a friend who had worked here said it was a great place to work.
Marie MacMichael appointed as Sales Support Assistant joined us in January this year. Marie is highly organised and working on the new Argos Dropship project, reporting to Val Ridlington and Alastair Murray. She has a Law Degree and explained she was attracted to the business as it is global company with possibilities for career progression, Marie also added she really likes the team spirit and really believes in offering the best possible customer service experience.
Hello
from Fetim Group UK
Prestigious Projects
selected for opulent New York Huys project Piet Boon, the award winning Dutch designer, who joined forces with Fetim Group to create an exclusive collection of wood floor designs for their Solidfloor™ range, has selected one of the washed oaks for the Huys apartments. This high-profile project with 58 luxurious and elegant apartments on 404 Park Avenue South in the booming NoMad district in New York is collaboration between Kroonenberg Groep, internationally renowned designer Piet Boon and landscape architect Piet Oudolf, who was recently awarded the prestigious Prince Bernhard Culture Award. ‘We have selected this robust, washed oak floor for the pilot apartment, because it ties in beautifully with the solid character of the building. It has a beautiful, used and worn look and feel’, the designer explains. The Huys apartments, in one of the most beautiful locations in The Big Apple, are a former office building from 1917, built in the typical neoclassical style of the time. The building has been transformed to luxurious apartments befitting a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Quality and attention to detail, as well as a healthy dose of the typical Dutch
down-to-earth mentality, wilfulness, functionality and durability, all define the key features of the apartments. From the outset, the project was quite a sensation among the spoiled and designminded New York public and was talk of the town in various media, among others in the famous design magazine Dwell. It is therefore no wonder that practically all apartments in this unique project were sold in no time. The name “Huys” refers to the Stadt Huys, New York City’s first city hall that was built in 1642 by the entrepreneurial Dutch-born Willem Kieft. Almost four centuries down the line it’s once again the steadfast Dutch have taken this extraordinary step in this city.
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22 Hello
from Fetim Group UK
Prestigious Projects continued
Holland Park – Fetim Home
choose Aqualux for Holiday Inn Express worldwide The Incontinental Hotel Group, who have more than 674,000 guest rooms, within 9 hotel brands, serving over 150 million guests each year globally, selected Aqualux shower enclosures for the Holiday Inn Express brand. Fleur Fowler, National Specification Manager for Fetim UK explained the contract was awarded following the successful 6 month collaboration with IHG architects and Fetim product design team. “This is not the first time, that Fetim have created a bespoke product for IHG having supplied the original shower screen for them. On this occasion, IHG had originally wanted a small shower screen divider but there were issues with attaching the screen to a side wall. Following a constructive meeting in Athens, at the IHG Conference, our design team were able to overcome the technical issues and they were delighted with the solution.” A completely new concept was created with an 8mm reinforced glass shower door and custom glass blade panel for the Holiday Inn Express bathrooms. To find out more about commercial projects and custom design options email f.fowler@uk.fetimgroup.com
Interiors Options Programme Fetim successfully negotiated to supply a home interiors package for the prominent residential development of Holland Park in the Diemen district of Amsterdam. Work began last September to demolish the former office park Bergwijkpark North and transform it into a highly desirable urban environment with more than 3,000 homes. Fetim created 3 different home interior options, Silver, Gold and Platinum to meet the budgets and styles of the homeowners. The Fetim home interior schemes included a choice of flooring, laminate, vinyl or wooden parquet, fitted wardrobes, window fashion, bathroom furniture and shower enclosure. There are many benefits in having a prepared home interiors proposal: • The design selection has been made to harmonize with the interior scheme ensuring it will look both stylish and coordinated • It is available immediately, and convenient, all items are installed and ready for when the home owner moves in • Selecting a limited choice of home products enables volume discounts to be passed on making the options affordable and attractive • Working with Fetim, ensures quality and consistency of the products • The Fetim Home Interiors package can be purchased within the property mortgage, spreading the cost and giving great flexibility to the purchaser To find out more about the Fetim Home Interiors offer email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com or contact National Specification Manager Fleur Fowler on email f.fowler@uk.fetimgroup.com
Hello
from Fetim Group UK
SuperTrash
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chose Solidfloor™ SuperTrash, the Dutch fashion brand has ventured beyond the Netherlands to London to open its flagship store on Carnaby Street. 80 sq.m of Solidfloor™ oak herringbone was installed in the trendy two-floor store. Solidfloor™ floors are highly durable engineered woods, with a top layer ranging from 3 to 6 millimetres, making them very hard wearing, easy to maintain and an ideal choice for a busy boutique location. Solidfloor™ flooring is available in a range of grades and finishes and come with a 25 year guarantee. For more information on Solidfloor™ email hello@uk.fetimgroup.com or contact f.fowler@uk.fetimgroup.com
Awarded Global Agreement with Hilton Fetim Group have secured a global agreement with the Hilton Hotels & Resorts Hilton owners of 12 distinct brands; operate in 78 countries across six continents. Fleur Fowler, National Specification Manager, explained that two Aqualux Shower enclosure and tray designs have been specified for the Hampton by Hilton and Garden Inn brands. Aqualux shower enclosures were first selected by Hilton in 2007 when three custom designs were created. Fleur added “Having worked with the Hilton group for many years; we understand the needs of project managers and equally know what buyers expect. Hampton by Hilton has 1850 locations worldwide and Gardens Inn 530 for which they have chosen the Mondial and Continental enclosure designs. “The contract was won because of the quality and design of our shower enclosures, price and the fact we can offer branded bathroom accessories and flooring at competitive prices too. Hilton were looking for a total solution provider and we can deliver For more information on Aqualux commercial specifications that. Service and reliability are crucial in this industry email hello@uk.uk.fetimgroup.com or f.fowler@uk.fetimgroup.com and they know they can depend on us.”
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Hello
from Fetim Group UK
Look Out... for what is being featured in our next edition of Hello... from Fetim Group UK
Window Fashion Product Focus
New product update
E-Commerce Insight
Bohemian Vintage trends
Innovation and Technical enhancements... we explain why you can confidently select a Fetim product for your home
Why choose Fetim for your new living room?