“Game-changing”
5First word
Editor’s comment
7News
Round-up of industry headlines
9People
Appointments and promotions
11Last word
Strategic sales and commercial business manager of Kaldewei executive board Roberto Martinez says don’t be fooled by greenwashing - seek out certification
12Supplier profile
Luxury appliance brand Fisher & Paykel has opened its first European Experience Centre, in London, and offers a new product line-up to provide retailers full kitchen suites
14Retailer focus
Head of showrooms at Just Add Water Charlotte Schofield talks about re-establishing and elevating the bathroom retail brand, with its boutique showroom in Buckhurst Hill, Essex.
17The Sustainability Issue
In recognition of Earth Day (April 22), which demonstrates support for environmental protection, KBN offers an overview of how sustainability is impacting KBB retail.
22Kitchen furniture
We take a look at how kitchen furniture has evolved, so it can meet a variety of roles and adapt to needs throughout the day
24Just out
Latest kitchen products
27Shower enclosures
How the continued demand for spacious showering areas is influencing the walk-in shower market.
30Just out
Latest bathroom products
32Company matters
SME advice offering support across sales, management, financial, marketing and social media topics.
Environmentally conscious interior design used to be for niche projects on the likes of TV programmes Grand Designs or Ben Fogle’s New Lives in the Wild. Composting toilets and reclaimed railway sleepers may have been the design brief for off-grid dwellers but it wouldn’t be found in your average kitchen or bathroom refurbishment. But how the notion of eco-design has changed – and how quickly! There has been a radical shift in the mindset about sustainability. It is now an integral part of the design process, which is reflected in the vast array of products available on the market.
Whether overtly, through product launches, or more subtly through business reliability, sustainability was a theme of the recent Kbb Birmingham. And what a show! We will be featuring a full report from the exhibition, in our May issue. But in line with Earth Day (April 22), we decided to focus on just one element from the exhibition –sustainability – and how it is impacting KBB retail.
There are a raft of eco products now available for the most design-led kitchens and bathrooms – from water-saving brassware, to recycled ceramics for tiles or basins. Reducing material waste and resources is no longer considered as offering a lesser experience in kitchen or bathroom projects. Rather, it could be considered more desirable as it provides an additional, thought-out level of design detail – a feel good factor of ‘doing the right thing’.
Undoubtedly there are some consumers already on the sustainability journey. However, for those still on their
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path to become eco-conscious, who don’t ask about the environmental credentials, perhaps retailers and designers can take charge? In fact, it could be argued they have a duty of care to help customers minimise their impact on the environment and ultimately make better choices.
Interestingly, it may already be a process of a designer which hasn’t been vocalised –selecting products for longevity to stand the test of time – or ensuring reduced resource use by specifying watersaving brassware. Preferably it could be a combination of the two.
Certainly sustainability is only going to grow in importance for the KBB sector, with the Government soon to introduce a mandatory Water Label for kitchen and bathroom products, which highlights water use. Now scientists are calling for microplastic filters to become law in washing machines to reduce pollution. So consider how your KBB retail business could benefit by becoming an authority in eco-design for the home.
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Director of Magnet George Dymond has been appointed executive vice president and head of region UK.
He succeeds Kristoffer Ljungfelt who was recently appointed as president and CEO of Nobia.
Dymond will become a member of Nobia Group’s management team and will assume his role by July 1, 2024.
Having joined the company in 2023, he has two decades of experience from senior leadership roles in the retail industry across the UK, Australia and the US.
According to a statement issued by Nobia: “George has
been instrumental in driving a positive change in the UK business and is a key contributor to the UK management team.
“He has a track record of successful turnarounds, great leadership abilities and is well equipped to continue to drive the transformation and further develop the UK business.”
President and CEO of Nobia Kristoffer Ljungfelt succeeds Jon Sintorn and will transition to the CEO role by no later than July 1, 2024.
His immediate focus will be to ensure the completion of the upcoming right’s issue and an “orderly” transition of the UK
leadership to his successor.
Ljungfelt joined Nobia in 2013 and has held senior positions within the company, including Group CFO, director of Sigdal in Norway and financial director Nobia Nordics.
Before joining Nobia, he held various senior positions at Electrolux.
Chairman of Nobia Jan Svensson commented: “Kristoffer has deep understanding of the kitchen industry and Nobia based on his previous roles in the company.
“More recently, he has been instrumental in the transformation of the UK business.
Kristoffer Ljungfelt added: “I’m both proud and excited that the Board has given me the opportunity to lead this company.
“With the successful ramp-up of our new, state-of-the-art factory in the Nordics and a turnaround in the UK, we will be in an excellent position to realise our full potential going forward.”
Bathroom brand Villeroy & Boch has completed its acquisition of all operating companies of the Ideal Standard Group.
Ideal Standard will be integrated as a separate part of the Villeroy & Boch Group.
Villeroy & Boch AG’s Management Board will remain unchanged under CEO Gabi Schupp. Jan Peter Tewes will continue to manage the Ideal Standard business and will report to Gabi Schupp.
The joint company will retain its established brands.
Mettlach will remain the headquarters of the Villeroy & Boch Group, while Ideal Standard will continue to be managed from Brussels.
“With the acquisition of Ideal Standard, we are systematically pursuing our strategic growth path, expanding our core business and enhancing our international presence. We firmly believe that the two companies will also be a good cultural fit.
“In addition to our traditional brands, we share common values, including a dedication to quality and service, an appreciation for exemplary design and the constant pursuit of innovation. We would like to welcome our new colleagues and we look forward to shaping our future together,” commented Gabi Schupp, CEO of Villeroy & Boch.
Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Villeroy & Boch
“The integration will enable us to increase our resilience in a consistently challenging market
environment, leverage synergies and establish optimal foundations for future profitable growth,” CEO of Ideal Standard International Jan Peter Tewes stated: “We are looking forward to working together as part of the Villeroy & Boch Group.”
Part of the international furniture fair Salone del Mobile.Milano, EuroCucina and The International Bathroom Show will return to the Rho Fiera in Milan, with a revised layout. The 62nd edition of the show, which takes place from April 16-21, will feature an “optimised” layout and visitor paths to be more intuitive, simpler to navigate and easier to remember. Read more at www.rdr.link/KAX001
Luxury KBB retailer
Nicholas Anthony triumphed in two categories at the International Property Awards, held at the Savoy Hotel in London. Adjudicated by a panel of over 80 industry experts, Nicholas Anthony was presented Best International Bathroom Design Award and Best in Europe for Bathroom Design Award. View the story at www.rdr.link/KAX002
Bathroom retailer Victorian Plumbing has reported a dip in average order value, as consumers turn to own-brand products. Providing an update on trading for the first 21 weeks of FY24, it said customers are purchasing “proportionately” more own brand products, resulting in a 3% reduction in average order value year-over-year. However, its year-over-year order volume up 4%, offset the reduction. See more at www.rdr.link/KAX003
Kitchen supplier Howdens has expanded into the fitted bedroom market, to provide its customers with more opportunities to win work and expand their business.
In what it hails as a “significant” milestone for the company, Howdens has introduced five ranges, in multiple decors, to suit a variety of customer budgets.
The bedroom furniture spans Shaker-style finishes, through to more modern sleek styles, and can be viewed at either of Howdens’ Expo sites in Raunds, Northamptonshire, or Howden, East Yorkshire.
Stock is carried at each of its 800+ depots and the bedroom furniture comes with a 25-year cabinet guarantee.
Tradespeople will also be able to use Howdens free planning and design service, which has been expanded to include the
bedroom category.
Head of design at Howdens Ady Heaton said: “This addition to our product offering enables our trade customers to win work beyond the kitchen, with a choice of bedroom designs all available from local stock.”
The acquisition of Harvey Jones by a fund managed by RBC BlueBay Asset Management was facilitated by way of a pre-pack administration.
Chris Pole and Ryan Grant, from financial advisory firm Interpath, were appointed joint administrators of Harvey Jones Limited on February 23, 2024.
Immediately following their appointment, they concluded a sale of the business and its assets to the fund.
All of the Company’s circa 140 employees have transferred to the purchaser as part of the recent transaction.
According to the bespoke kitchen manufacturer and retailer, the investment will accelerate the transformation of
the Harvey Jones business in 2024 and beyond, with further product and omnichannel development in the kitchen space, as well as reaching other areas of the home.
In addition, it reports brand awareness will be further strengthened with ongoing support and collaboration with its new strategic brand partners across both consumer and trade.
The investor will work closely with the management team at Harvey Jones to support the development of the brand.
Harvey Jones CEO Vince Gunn said “We are delighted to be working with our new owners and investors who will provide us with the support and expertise to accelerate our
business transformation and realise the profound potential that underpins the much loved Harvey Jones brand.”
Managing director of Interpath Advisory and joint administrator Chris Pole said:
“We are pleased to have been able to secure this transaction which will provide the business with a stable financial platform upon which it can move forward.”
Kitchen furniture manufacturer Rotpunkthas welcomed John McWhinnie as sales manager covering the north of England. With over 37 years’ industry experience, he has an understanding of retail and has built relationships during that time. His previous roles include national product training manager at Nolte UK, senior designer at Häcker Kitchens in Dubai, and showroom manager at SieMatic.
Irish manufacturer Sonas Bathrooms has promoted head of marketing Louise Murphy to the position of marketing director. Having a wealth of experience and a track record as head of marketing, Murphy will play a role in driving brand awareness across UK and Ireland. Prior to this appointment, she held a range of marketing roles across motoring, sport and hospitality.
Premium Scandinavian appliance brand Asko has promoted head of sales Michael Hardwick to business director and Jag Sandhu joins as ERT national account manager. Hardwick will be responsible for leading the brand and growing the network of customers.Sandhu, will be responsible for managing accounts in electrical retail.
Bathroom furniture manufacturer Woodstock Trading Co has added to its sales team, to enhance support for retailers. Martin Voisey has stepped into the role of head of independent sales, joining the company from One of One, where he was sales director. Joe Donofrio has been appointed as head of national accounts, having previously worked as showroom director for Wolseley.
LAST WORD
The topic of sustainability in terms of architecture and design is arising with more and more frequency, from passive houses, to eco or green homes, through to creating a new kitchen or bathroom. However big or small the project, clients want the assurance the end result will not only be visually appealing but will not cause untold damage to the planet.
At this point many designers will look to brands for support, as these companies will have their own identity and will be telling their own ‘story’, enabling them to connect emotionally with the consumer. However, this is when the topic of sustainability becomes a sticky subject, it’s become something of a buzz word. with thousands of brands now marketing themselves as being eco-friendly without the credentials to back up these claims. It is crucial the design industry doesn’t rely solely on established brands, but actively seeks out more information and demands strict independent certification from reliable, third-party sources.
Designers need to understand that sustainable practises are not one-size fits all and must not pass the responsibility of sustainability entirely on to the brands. Whilst many will engage in sustainable initiatives, most brands will offer a comprehensive range of different products, in
a variety of categories, which will in turn be manufactured in a range of materials. It then follows that not all will be made using the same production method or even in the same country, which will impact the environment and society in some way.
The topic of sustainability becomes a sticky subject, with thousands of brands now marketing themselves as being eco-friendly without the credentials to back up these claims.
Designers need to understand these nuances in production and actively participate in the decision-making process to ensure that specific needs and product sustainability are in alignment within their project. The good thing is today everything is measurable; and many companies are now much more transparent, accountable, and ethical in their business operations.
Businesses are also striving to achieve net zero carbon emissions, and in recent years there have been more companies making a net zero claim. This doesn’t mean they are going to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to actual zero, but that they are going to reduce some and fund an offsetting project to deal with their remaining emissions for which there is a real need.
Many brands use carbon offsetting as a way of reducing their carbon footprint, for example you can offset carbon emissions by buying carbon credits. This payment is put towards projects such as developing existing technologies or creating new ones. Carbon offsets can also be used to help conservation and sustainable development. However, if this is not done properly, both the projects and emission reduction can fail.
It’s not all negative, though, as there are ways as a designer you can reduce the carbon footprint of your project, such as avoiding air travel, for you and the products you are sourcing, fitting an eco-heating system, using water-saving technology and sustainable, recyclable products as part of the intrinsic design.
Again, this means that you as the designer need to check the credentials of the companies supplying the products. An EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) is a valuable tool for designers when making decisions, as it is a standardised, independently verified report that provides transparent and reliable information on the environmental impacts of a product throughout its life cycle.
Going forward, we need suppliers to present their green credentials and their data in a way that designers can understand. This is important as it forms a platform from which questions can be asked to other brands, starting a conversation on sustainability, helping us to offer clients the most eco-friendly options.
Strategic sales and commercial business manager of Kaldewei executive board Roberto Martinez says designers don’t be fooled by greenwashing –seek out certification
At the opening of its London Experience Centre, chief operating officer for UK, Ireland & Europe Stephen Rickersey states now is a time of transition for Fisher & Paykel. Part of a global roll-out of Experience Centres, it is the first in Europe, and showcases a new product line-up. It allows the brand to offer retailers a full suite of kitchen appliances – including cooking, laundry and wine coolers. All of which goes towards its long-term plan, to quadruple the UK business in five to 10 years.
Welcoming both walk-ins and appointments from customers, retailers, architects and designers, the Experience Centre is manned by a team of five, led by manager Sasha Joseph. They help build relationships, assist the purchasing journey, and refer clients to the best point of contact – whether retail sales or the design development team that influences specifiers, designers and architects.
The two-floor space has been created to
reflect the philosophy and heritage of the New Zealand company. As part of the experience, guests are offered a cup of Kawakawa tea at the entrance. Stephen Rickersey says “the space is about design and lifestyle but we will also use this as an opportunity to introduce the brand heritage of New Zealand.” However, the architecture is also indicative of London, as it uses local materials; Elm, Portland Stone, and glazed tiles, in a subterranean kitchen with a vaulted ceiling, reminiscent of the London Underground and brick-clad waterways which intersect the site.
Head of product Jo Jackson comments on the design of the space: “To come into a space like this, you get the sense of what we’re about. It is the way we perceive our appliances in the world of design.”
Rickersey gently rebuffs any suggestion that being the most recent appliance manufacturer to join Wigmore Street meant Fisher & Paykel felt pressure to deliver, as the opening was slightly delayed. He said it was simply to meet the level of design required, which took longer than expected.
Measuring 230sqm, the Experience Centre features key areas, which include a Minimal Kitchen with built-in cooking, wine coolers and refrigeration. This is joined by an Apartment kitchen and a social dining space, with a full-time chef, for events. “Some of the product here is prototype and will be available later in the year. We’re known for our refrigeration and our DishDrawer, but a lot of the products are part of a new range that has recently launched to market’, explains Rickersey.
This transition into providing a full suite of kitchen appliances is reflected in the layout of the space, as Jo Jackson explains it is intentional the first appliances on view when entering the showroom are cooking. She adds: “There’s no other Fisher & Paykel Experience Centres that have these handleless ovens and wine coolers. We can showcase products that are coming six maybe nine months ahead, to allow retailers to see and touch before making a selection for their showroom.”
The company has also introduced laundry with the likes of its high-end laundry companion with one control for both washing machine and dryer. Stephen Rickersey comments: “Luxury retailers are not just doing the kitchen, they’re creating a bootroom, a bar, the utility room, the prep kitchen. So we need to be relevant in all those spaces.”
And Jo Jackson agrees: “We are all playing in new spaces and creating opportunities where everybody can benefit.” This has seen Fisher & Paykel introduce even more integrated solutions, dishwashers to complement its DishDrawer, and undercounter wine cabinets with the same
wine care technology as its larger columns –to offer more choice to retailers and add value to projects. And that choice will be key for Fisher & Paykel sales growth, to encourage its 500-strong kitchen and electrical retailers selling its DishDrawer and CoolDrawer, to extend into additional product categories.
To come into a space like this, you get the sense of what we’re about. It is the way we perceive our appliances in the world of design.
Becoming a more generalist, luxury appliance brand how does Fisher & Paykel propose to stand out? “We have some unique product types to us – so we can talk about our ‘human centred’ design of these products”, says Rickersey, adding: “And in areas like cooking, for example, we have all the functionality of our competitors. We have models with soft close opening and closing, and could spend all day talking about 26 features on the oven, but we feel our brand has to be experiential, led by design and lifestyle. The way we will talk about the story is temperature as the constant link between products.”
This spans the importance of temperature in food storage with fridge freezers featuring three temperature zones, through to the ideal heat for a particular dish. It is also at the heart of the Mastery of Temperature culinary experience held in the Social Kitchen, and which retailers can offer to their customers.
So how is Fisher & Paykel finding the
market? “It’s normalising isn’t it?” replies Rickersey. “There was a period of volatility through Covid but fundamentally the number of kitchens sold in this market, if you look back for 10 years, has been fairly stable. The feedback we’re hearing from the trade coming in here is the sales leads are starting to pick up again.” However, Rickersey also points out: “We don’t consider the market as a barometer of success for us. Our task, and the investment in this place, is to focus on growing overall category value with our retail partners by offering added value to their projects.”
While Jo Jackson cites the London Experience Centre as “game-changing”, Rickersey is also keen to point out the company, as part of the equation, has also invested in operational support for growth. “We have a 59,000sqft warehouse in Northamptonshire. We now have 18 fully employed technicians covering the whole of the UK and Ireland, and a Trustpilot rating of 4.9. Our service is exceptional.” And Rickersey continues: “This is a transition point for us. It’s not coincidental the London Experience Centre has happened now. It’s at the same time as we’ve got an awesome product range lined up and behind-thescenes set-up to grow. It’s all part of a broader plan. We have a five-to-10-year plan to quadruple the UK business. We’re ambitious but we’re realistic because we now have a full kitchen suite of appliances to sell.”
London Experience Centre
Head of showrooms at Just Add Water Charlotte Schofield talks about re-establishing and elevating the brand, with its refurbished boutique showroom in Buckhurst Hill, Essex.
Just Add Water has recently refurbished its Buckhurst Hill showroom in Essex to create a boutique-style space.
However, its beauty is more than skin deep. The transformation of the two-floor space has been tactical, in line with the market, moving the retail business to a more prestigious position, and acting as a footprint for the Just Add Water brand.
Head of showrooms Charlotte Schofield said she made the proposal to the board of directors to upscale the bathroom showrooms, as the lower mid sales started to tighten. “We had to dress the showrooms for the people buying bathrooms, with a strategy to elevate the brand.” And certainly, it is reflected in order value, as Charlotte says “We have seen the average order value lift significantly with the introduction of the new products used in the refurbishment.”
The refurbishment of the flagship showroom, has seen an investment of around £60,000 including a new lighting scheme. The ground floor space, which had an open plan office shared with its parent company Fayers, has been divided to create a boutique consultations area with TVs for design presentations along with coffee machines and cold beverages available to customers. “It’s completely changed the experience for the customer”, says Charlotte who points out they are assisted by a three-strong sales team with decades of experience between them.
Key to the re-launch, Charlotte needed to carefully re-design the supply strategy, to avoid like-for-like comparisons, offer return on investment for each display space, and to create a Just Add Water brand. She continues: “I don’t like our team having to compete with quotes that are cheaper online or with competitors in the local vicinity. I made a conscious effort to push forward with different suppliers to other local showrooms to reduce this from happening. My key driver was to differentiate our customer proposition in every way possible.
“I like the teams to enjoy their whole sales process, from sitting with the customers, exploring the showroom together, offering our design service, and creating mood boards. It’s
Charlotte Schofield has worked for the company for 12 years and has been responsible for refurbishing its flagship showroom in Buckhurst Hill, Essex
The supplier strategy was developed upon choosing product not available locally
an excellent visualisation of what consumers are going to end up with and a great way to have customer interaction and experience.”
The showroom has always housed many leading brands, but Charlotte says it meant Just Add Water lost some visual identity. So, alongside the brand, she focused on suppliers which partner the aims of Just Add Water,
Charlotte says: “I first focused on the suppliers we already had solid relationships with such as Crosswater, Hansgrohe and Catalano. We planned their areas out to give the best visibility in the showroom of their brand, but whilst ultimately elevating our own brand at the same time. Our suppliers have all showed us real dedication about wanting to work with Just Add Water as a brand. We want to be a destination for every customer wanting a new bathroom, that’s why it was so important for us to offer a good, better, best proposition across the showroom.” Charlotte adds: “The refurbishment saw us introduce exciting new brands into the showroom, all chosen for specific reasons to suit current and future trends in the industry – ultimately supporting wider more exciting choice.”
Charlotte admits the 7-month transformation took longer than expected. She explains “We started downstairs, then moved upstairs. The midpoint of transition was highly emotional and frustrating, as nothing was finished. I wanted quick results, but it taught me that taking the time to get it right is far more important than rushing to the finish line.” Now, she is overwhelmed with the end result: “This always felt like it needed this to happen, to reach its full potential”
I think what we’ve done is create a massive opportunity. We have raised the quality of products and elevated our customer experience.
Just Add Water offers a design and supplyonly service, with recommended installers, Charlotte explains “they bring us customers and in turn we recommend them to our new customers.” But she points out the company manages the entire bathroom project. Around 60% of the Buckhurst Hill customers remain professional “regulars”, which work on £2million+ houses and have projects of anywhere in-between 5 to 7 bathrooms. However, Instagram has spawned a new customer base, with Charlotte both looking after the marketing and the sales from that channel. “I deal with all the Instagram customers, it’s both an exciting and rewarding platform for us. It also allows us to reach wider than the local areas we are based in. I do anything from Virtual Worlds designs to Q&As. It’s perfect for customer interaction and gathering market research.” Interestingly, she adds sustainability has moved higher up the design agenda: “We get asked about it
more now than ever. We always want to promote water-saving brassware, and energysaving products saying it’s going to save money and you can feel greener at the end of the day.”
So what is next for Just Add Water? “I think what we’ve done is create a massive opportunity. We have clearly raised the bar and quality of products and elevated our customer experience. We understand our brand and our DNA and can do a ‘copy and paste’ somewhere else with the understanding of what matters to us”, says Charlotte, hinting at future plans. Director Nick Horton also points out: “There’s still a lot more to do. We are freshening everything up. I listened to the dream, bought into the dream, and convinced the shareholders this was where we needed to invest money. The local area is now so aligned and receptive to what we have created.”
What comes through is developing relationships will continue to be key to the success of Just Add Water from its suppliers, through to customers, and its staff. Nick concludes: “The key thing in the showroom is the staff. They are our differentiator. It’s how we sell someone their dream, here, which is so important.”
In recognition of Earth Day (April 22), which demonstrates support for environmental protection, KBN offers an overview of how sustainability is impacting KBB retail. Here, we have gathered headline stories and garnered opinions of industry leaders to consider how sustainability is not only influencing the choices retailers make when designing kitchens and bathrooms, but the way their businesses are run too.
Consideration of the environment through the choice of materials, methods of manufacture –reducing energy use, CO2 emissions, single use plastics – as well as efficient logistics has increasingly come to the fore. So much so, sustainability is not only recognised but championed in the industry. It’s perhaps no surprise, then, the shortlist for Kbb Birmingham Innovation Awards featured products with sustainability at their core. The key, then, is educating consumers about those that are energy-
“The biggest difference we can make is to ensure clients are educated”
Managing director of Ripples Paul Crow on partnering with the Unified Water Label Association to educate consumers on water efficiency in-store
Sustainability has never been a more important topic than it is today and at Ripples, we are taking steps towards becoming a more sustainable business. As specialists within the industry, there’s no doubt the biggest difference we can make is to ensure our clients are educated on the financial but more importantly environmental benefits of using less water. The product selection we have on offer
efficient, water-efficient and made in a sustainable way at point of purchase.
The Unified Water Label has long been a tool in the armoury of a KBB showroom, to help advise and guide consumers to making more efficient choices – and Government is already mandating for labelling to become law by next year. There may also be legal requirements for microplastic filters in washing machines, to reduce pollution, if tech firms and scientists have their way.
Sustainability is no longer an option for the ecologically avant garde, but is integral to the success of KBB retail. It’s a collective responsibility and suppliers need to support retailers so their customers make better buying decisions.
today has never been better suited to creating beautiful bathrooms which don’t negatively impact the environment. From taps with flow restrictors to showers which use air technology to reduce water usage, clients can now benefit from water-saving technologies, without compromising on look or performance.
The biggest step we’re taking to educate our customers is an upcoming partnership with the Unified Water Label Association. We’ve been aware of the good work of the UWLA for some time but this has recently gained momentum due to the increasing pressure the UWLA’s MD Yvonne Orgill is rightly putting on the industry to implement
a water-labelling solution on bathroom products before the government mandate one. We’re currently working behind the scenes to trial the implementation of a Water Label in a selection of our showrooms, to understand the intricacies of how it looks and more importantly how it works to educate our customers. After the initial test, we’ll look to roll out the label scheme to all of our showrooms.
At a franchisee level, we’ve been working more closely with our suppliers to offer our franchisees and designers training on the subject of sustainability and eco products. Despite sustainability being higher on the public’s agenda, the reality is that customers don’t always ask us about sustainable products when designing their new bathroom. This is usually only a factor when the project is for a new build home where legislations are regulated. By educating our franchisees and designers about the ecofriendly products available, they can make sure the subject is on the client’s agenda. Our designers have a really important role here as the new bathrooms they design should last our clients in excess of 10 years. So they’re designing the bathrooms of the future. The products specified today give us an opportunity to reduce water and carbon usage for the following decade so there’s a real importance to selecting the right products.
Tech companies have called for washing machines filters to be fitted by law, supported by findings the majority of consumers are concerned about pollution.
According to a survey commissioned by Xeros Technology, 80% of consumers in the UK are concerned about the impact of microplastics on the environment and human health. In addition, it found 60% of people do not feel the UK Government is doing enough to tackle plastic pollution, including that of microplastics. A separate poll, commissioned by Matter, found 78% believe microfibre filters should be made mandatory on all new washing machines sold in the UK. And nearly two thirds of consumers (58%) would be willing to pay more for a washing machine that comes with a microfibre filter.
The opinion polls were conducted ahead of the launch of a white paper challenging the Government to do more to tackle microplastic pollution by mandating for filters in all new washing machines. “Filtration as an effective and near term solution to reduce the release of microplastics in the
The kitchen and bathroom retail market has become increasingly focused on sustainability as consumers continue to seek eco-friendly, solutions for their home renovation projects. It’s imperative showrooms are aware of the green credentials of the products they’re selling so consumers can make more informed purchase decisions.
At Symphony, our knowledge and resources help showroom staff better guide customers looking to make the more sustainable choice. Being able to recommend energy-efficient and waterefficient appliances, taps and technology to go with their new kitchen is welcomed.
environment” has been co-authored by A Plastic Planet, Matter, PlanetCare, Xeros Technology, and the 5 Gyres Institute, and will be presented to Government.
It estimates UK laundry alone generates an average of 17,234 tonnes of microfibres each year, weighing the equivalent of around 1,500 double-decker buses. Based on current trends, the whitepaper reports the amount of synthetic microfibres entering the ocean between 2015 – 2025 could accumulate to more than 22 million tonnes. Yet the Xeros poll revealed around 60% of British people are unaware of the fact that microplastics shed from clothes during washing.
Co-Founder of A Plastic Planet Sian Sutherland said: “The British public could not be clearer. People are extremely worried about what plastic is doing to our health and the world around us. Fortunately, we have at our fingertips many of the solutions we need to tackle this crisis decisively.
“Business can be the greatest force for change and innovation the world has ever known.But business has to take its lead from Governments delivering the kind of legislation the British public are calling for. This General Election year it’s clear there is not a moment to lose.”
Samsung recently won a KBB Product Innovation Award for its microfibre filter.
Sustainability analyst at Symphony Group George Burtoft explains how it helps retailers provide greener solutions for kitchen refurbishments
We have always taken our responsibilities to the environment seriously, and are committed to playing our part by implementing sustainable actions. One of these actions is working with our supply chain to better understand the credentials of our products.
Our collection includes 70% recycled PET foil made from recycled plastic bottles. We have also recently launched our Ocean handles which are made using recycled plastic from the maritime industry. All of our timber-based materials are FSC certified, while all plastic cabinet legs are made from 100% recycled plastic and all of the cardboard boxes we use for packaging are made from 100% recycled materials. One of the statistics we’re most proud of is that 0% manufacturing waste is sent to landfill! Symphony also allow products to be
‘Repaired, Not Replaced’, saving damaged cabinets from being sent to landfill. And for retailers updating a showroom, Symphony is a partner with The Used Kitchen Company, who will find an ex-display kitchen a new home, and encourages consumers to do the same.
We take a look at how kitchen furniture has evolved, so it can meet a variety of roles (including socialising) and adapt to needs throughout the course of a day
Open-plan living has seen the evolution of kitchens, not only in terms of aesthetics, but parameters extending far beyond the cooking and casual dining space. While the kitchen was once designed to blend into adjacent living spaces, it could be argued ground floor design now emanates from the kitchen.
We are spending more time in the kitchen and expecting it to perform a variety of tasks that change throughout the course of the day.
So much so, kitchen furniture manufacturers have now introduced cocktail bars, dressers, seating and media areas, as part of their portfolio, to make a social space. Rather than simply planning a kitchen, designers now need to consider creating a home, and this was evident at the recent Kbb Birmingham exhibition.
Managing director of Daval Simon Bodsworth comments: “In my opinion, it all comes down to ‘custom comfort’ when it comes to supporting user-centred, social kitchens which are ergonomic and tailor-made by design. In fact, the interiors market is going to be defined by artisanal qualities as UK homeowners are keen to enhance their surrounding with highly personal design elements to create home environments which are flexible enough to work, rest and socialise in!”
With dining room popularity in decline, over the past 10 years, according to property website RightMove, it has put more emphasis on the kitchen to create a place to eat. Enter breakfast bars, lower level table extensions off kitchen islands, and banquette seating. Kitchen category manager of LochAnna Kitchens Sinead Trainor explains: “The practicality of social seating transforms the kitchen into a space that encourages all members of the household to dine together, fostering a sense of family time, and has the added benefit of creating extra storage space… such as lift-up seats or built-in drawers.”
Now you see it, now you don’t with the FurniSpin which can be used in the kitchen, office or living space from small glass display through to floor-to-ceiling furniture. Find out more at www.rdr.link/KAX005
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The Concepta III from Hawa is a slide and pivot door, available in half-height and floor-to-ceiling designs, as well as for wall units. Watch the video at www.rdr.link/KAX006
Bringing together people also extends to family and friends, as developments in kitchen design have recently seen it become a place of entertainment. “A YouGov poll revealed that 65% of UK adults prefer to stay in, rather than going out. We have found that staying at home more has completely transformed home entertaining and by virtue the social kitchen experience, with integrated home bars becoming a welcome addition in the kitchen,” says Simon Bodsworth of Daval. LochAnna Kitchens has recently introduced the Thistleton Drinks Pantry to its portfolio, and design manager at Symphony Kitchens Josie Medved added: “At Symphony, we have developed some new styles of unit including home office furniture, pantries and bar pantries along with different styles of islands to help consumers create more social spaces.”
Interestingly, then, with the requirement for the kitchen to fulfil a variety of roles, there is a greater need to create an element of privacy. Perhaps changing from a functional working kitchen and office in the day, to a quieter socialising space in the evening. The ability to conceal and reveal has become a key element of kitchen interior design.
Head of UK operations at Rotpunkt Matt Phillips adds: “Balancing the public and private aspects of the ground floor is key to the relaxed social kitchen, so developing specialist laundry and utility furniture solutions has been a growth area for us, recently, in addition to our kitchen living core collections.”
Managing director for Euromobel/Sachsenkuchen Bodie Kelay explains how this has affected his company’s product development: “Sachsenkuchen has developed a new ‘passage door’ system to create a hidden storage zone, perfect to use as a walk-in pantry, utility, or prep kitchens.” It offers the opportunity to create additional sales, as retailers can create an adjacent room off the main kitchen space, which can be closed off.
But is this trend for social kitchens simply for large areas or can it be diluted into smaller spaces? Josie Medved of Symphony comments: “It can be harder to create seating and social areas in a small kitchen but it not impossible! Sometimes a small seating area can be created from an awkward corner of the kitchen. Or, it might be possible to fit a narrow island into a small kitchen, which can
Turin is available in Charcoal, Hunter Green matt finishe as well as Dark Stone and Dark Walnut. Media units complement the kitchen furniture and you can request a brochure at www.rdr.link/KAX007
Showcased in a choice of Light Grey, Dark Grey and Desert Pink Durham furniture, LochAnna Kitchens offers banquette seating. View the range at www.rdr.link/KAX008
be achieved with our reduced depth units.”
Understanding the products on the market, which optimise space, can help a designer create a smaller social kitchen. Matt Phillips of Rotpunkt adds: “I’m a big believer in the democracy of design and small can definitely be beautiful with clever storage solutions, such as inset kitchens.” And he cites a handleless one-wall unit, as a solution for a smaller space. Most recently, Hettich has developed the FurniSpin, where a rotating column can be used to display or conceal contents, while pocket doors can slide and hide a number of units.
However, it’s not simply the form of the design but also the selection of finishes,
which create a social space. Nature-inspired colours in matt finishes, timber and woodgrain effects, interrupt the kitchen paradigm. Sinead Traynor of LochAnna Kitchens states: “Incorporating wood into the overall kitchen design not only adds depth and warmth but also introduces a natural element that transforms the kitchen into a relaxing, social haven. We expect to see solid timber kitchens taking centre stage within 2024, as homeowners desire durability in equal measure to style.”
Undoubtedly, this continued evolution of the ground floor space – with social kitchen, home bar, dedicated office space, boot room, laundry and walk-in – will offer kitchen designers more profitable sales opportunities.
Answering the ongoing consumer desire for black accents in home design, Franke has unveiled Mythos Black Line premium kitchen a ppliances. The built-in range spans ovens, hobs, hoods, sinks, taps, coffee machines, warming and accessory drawers. In terms of cooking, it includes the Mythos Pyrolytic Oven and Mythos Combi Compact Oven, complemented by a Warming Drawer, Mythos Vertical Pro Hood, Mythos Induction hob in additional 900mm width, and Mythos Black Coffee Machine. See the range at www.rdr.link/KAX009 \2
Premium kitchen water place specialist Blanco has introduced a new Colour Components system with matching tap, waste and accessories. The Colour Components system offers kitchen designers the option to first select a sink without drainage components, then choose their tap and Blanco InFino drain, plus overflow and accessories, in matching finishes. Designers can choose from the new Satin Platinum and Satin Dark Steel colours, through to Matt Black and Satin Gold. Discover more at www.rdr.link/KAX010
Surface material manufacturer Egger has introduced Decorative Collection 24+, a rolling collection for distributors, designers, architects and fabricators. It will be updated with decors and texture combinations every two years. In the UK programme, there is 102 new decors and six textures, with 25 matt surfaces, including PerfectSense lacquered chipboard in solid colour and woodgrain reproductions. Read more details at www.rdr.link/KAX011
Kitchen specialist Caple has introduced a black glass finish for cooking and specialist drinks appliances. The finish is available on single and double ovens, combi steam ovens and microwaves, as well as coffee machines, warming drawers and wine cabinets. Designed to suit a variety of kitchen styles, the appliances can be used to blend harmoniously into a dark scheme or act as a focal point for lighter tone spaces. Discover more details at www.rdr.link/KAX012
British kitchen supplier LochAnna Kitchens has launched two new ranges, Newbridge and Lifford, under its new LochAnna Handmade sub-brand. Following the continued trend for painted kitchens, LochAnna is set to meet this demand with handmade bespoke offerings. Made in Ireland, the bespoke doors offer up to 270 choices in terms of colour and style. Read more at www.rdr.link/KAX013
manufacturer
include
Find out the technical specification at www.rdr.link/KAX014
The walk-in enclosure has been a staple style for the bathroom specialist for the past two decades, but sales show no sign of slowing. With its ability to suit a range of consumer needs, its minimal aesthetics with step-free access is as welcomed for its highend interior appearance as it is for its practicality to suit all ages and abilities.
Showering product manager at Bathrooms to Love Tanna Molyneux continues: “Their seamless and open design resonates with a wide array of customer types, particularly the multi-generational household looking for ease of access, safety, on-trend style and low maintenance.” In fact, such is the demand, marketing director of Sonas Bathrooms Louise Murphy comments: “In recent years, the demand for walk-in shower enclosures has experienced a significant increase, with Sonas Bathrooms reporting an impressive threefold surge in wetroom panels sales.”
A go-to for showering spaces in larger bathrooms, experts point out retailers could be missing a trick by not specifying a walk-in for smaller spaces. Managing director of CRL Europe Simon Boocock states: “Walk-in showers make effective use of floor space, making this a suitable option for compact bathrooms. A floor-to-ceiling frameless shower screen creates an almost invisible divide in a small bathroom, so the room doesn’t feel cramped or closed off.”
In fact, Sonas Bathrooms recently introduced its Aspect Wetroom Panel range in sizes from 300mm, extending up to 1400mm, for smaller spaces.
The variety of sizes in walk-in enclosures are equally matched by the choices of design now available on the market. Whether framed or
The Reflexion Iconix Fluted Glass Wetroom Panel is made from 8mm glass, shown here with a Brushed Brass profile, and comes in four widths. Discover its wetroom panels at www.rdr.link/KAX015
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Part of its Kinedo brand Ekinox+ is available in single and duo options with coloured profiles such as Brushed Cobalt Blue (pictured). Read more at www.rdr.link/KAX016
frameless, with coloured or textured glass, designers can choose a walk-in to suit a wide array of bathroom styles and interior design tastes. It’s no surprise, then, experts state walk-in enclosure collections that provide a broad offer are the most popular. Managing director of Matki UK Nicholas Cunild cites its EauZone wetroom panel as its most popular walk-in product: “This has a vast range of options in terms of finish, size, framed or
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frameless and glass designs. It is also available bespoke.” Marketing manager of Saniflo UK Amanda Mills says demand for variety is also reflected in her company sales, as she points out: “Among the popular models, the Kinedo Ekinox+ stands out due to its versatility with numerous configurations, allowing for customisation to fit various spaces and preferences. Kinequartz also offers different glass types.”
However, a look that has recently launched on to the market is fluted glass, offering opacity for modesty and providing texture in a space otherwise dedicated to hard surfaces. Tanna Molyneax of Bathrooms to Love by PJH comments: “With fluted design as one of the biggest trends this year, it’s no surprise that soft fluted glass screens are the ones to watch over the coming years. Incorporating textured or ribbed glass into walk-in showering design is steadily increasing, striking a perfect balance between visibility and privacy.” And Louise Murphy of Sonas Bathroom agrees fluted glass is gaining traction: “The Sonas 2024 Collection introduced the Mirage Wetoom Panel range, which features slimmer frame designs and offers enhanced privacy through options like fluted or smoked glass.”
It is these design elements, along with material qualities, which can help bathroom retailers upsell a consumer. Sales and marketing director of Kudos UK Nick Graville states: “Glass thickness and price point are the obvious differentiating factors but when you get into the detail and compare entry/mid/mid-to-upper and premium walkIn enclosures then you really start to see some key differences that would assist retailers when trading their clients up. For example, our Ultimate range includes easy fit wall posts and deflector panels which require no silicone. When you compare this with ranges with a lower price point, they will need to be siliconed which adds time (and therefore cost) to the installation.” And Amanda Mills of Saniflo says it all forms part of one-to-one consultations with clients:
3. CRL STONE
Offering bespoke shower spaces, CRL provides hardware in a choice of finishes including Chrome, Antique Brass, Brushed Nickel, Matte Black and Polished Copper. Find out about the range at www.rdr.link/KAX017
4. MATKI
The Matki EauZone Arch Wet Room is made from 10mm glass - in clear, tinted and frosted options – and 11 Swadling Brassware Special finishes. View all the technical specifications at www.rdr.link/KAX018
5. KUDOS
Ultimate Walk-in shower enclosure is shown in smoked glass with a white stripe, with a stability bar for larger sizes. Discover the range at www.rdr.link/KAX019
“Bathroom retailers can encourage clients to trade up by highlighting the benefits of premium walk-in enclosures, such as durability, aesthetic appeal, and additional features. Personalised consultations and showcasing the latest designs and innovations can incentivise clients to invest in higher-end options.” In fact, Nicholas Cunild of Matki Showers has found design details have been responsible for an uptake in his company’s walk-in sales: “Matki sales of wetroom walkins have been driven upwards by the introduction of new, exciting designs such as fully brass framed models in many finishes, metallic mesh glass and the new EauZone Arch panel.”
In recent years, the demand for walk-in shower enclosures has experienced a significant increase, with Sonas Bathrooms reporting an impressive threefold surge in wetroom panels sales.
But showering experts also issue designers a word of advice when specifying walk-in enclosures, which are focused around spatial challenges and water ingress. Nick Graville of Kudos states: “There are a few key elements that can sometimes be overlooked, potentially driven by the consumer’s needs. Some examples include creating a walk-in in too small of a space, which can result in more overspray than is necessary.” To help mitigate the issue of overspray, designers can look to the use of deflector or ‘flipper’ panels. Louise
6. SONAS BATHROOMS
Part of its Sonas Bathrooms 2024 Collection is the fully-framed Mirage in a choice of smokey and fluted glass. View its range of wetroom panels at www.rdr.link/KAX020
Murphy of Sonas Bathrooms explains:
“Designers can strategically position showerheads or ‘flipper’ panels with wetroom panels to minimise water ingress risks.” However, she also encourages designers to consider the space around the walk-in enclosure, and advise clients on the use of wetroom panels to serve as protective barriers to safeguard the likes of nearby furniture.
Whereas in difficult to fit spaces, managing director of CRL Wetrooms Simon Boocock advises designers look for customised solutions to better fit the space. “When walk-in shower areas are created in awkwardly shaped rooms – under the eaves in a loft room being just one example – straight out of the box glass frame and surfaces may not be ideal, as there will be difficulty in getting it to fit flush within the space, running the danger of water leaking. Opting for a bespoke shower solution, with glassware and wall surfaces cut to size to fit the space is really the best way to create a seamless finish.”
Certainly the walk-in shower surround market shows no sign of slowing, as it provides the coveted look of a wetroom with the structure and safety of showering with a barrier. And with such an extensive choice of sizes, glazing and finishes, bathroom designers can create design-led, personalised showering spaces for all customers.
Head of marketing and product development at Bette Sven Rensinghoff says shower trays offer security against water leakage and slipping in the space Consumer demand is for larger, flatter and flush-to-floor shower trays that give the look of a wetroom, without any worries about water leakage, and with a shower floor that is easy to clean. There is also a growing demand for shower trays that coordinate with flooring to help make the room appear larger.
Retailers can benefit from selecting a manufacturer whose products have advantages that can be communicated to consumers, such as strong sustainability credentials, use of ‘green’ steel and warranty. Bette glazed titanium-steel, products, including its shower trays, are 100% recyclable. Retailers who sell Bette’s glazed titanium steel products can communicate the benefits of the material, such as ease of cleaning and scratch resistance.
Retailers can offer customers the latest advances in flush-to-floor shower trays, such as the BetteAir shower tray, which has a thickness roughly equivalent to a large format tile. It can be installed flush with the floor, providing the advantages of a tiled floor.
There is also the opportunity to offer customers an almost invisible and easy-toclean, anti-slip finish, such as the BetteAntiSlip Sense, which can bring added safety, particularly for those who are less mobile, or for families with children.
Retailers can benefit from selecting a manufacturer whose products have advantages that can be communicated to consumers, such as strong sustainability credentials, use of ‘green’ steel and warranty.
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Shower surround manufacturer Lakes
Showering Spaceshas extended its Wave range to include a Hinge & In-Line enclosure. Designed for wider enclosed spaces, the Hinge & In-Line model adds to sliding doors, quads, bi-fold door and a walk-in panel. Manufactured from 8mm glass, it comes in a range of sizes, from 1000mm up to 1700mm wide, and is available in Silver, Black andBrushed Brass. Read all the technical specifications at www.rdr.link/KAX023
Kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture manufacturer Symphony has introduced Amalfi furniture, with a classic Shaker style and contemporary aesthetic, to its Aquadi fitted bathroom collection. Manufactured from super matt foil with a narrow frame, for a Shaker look and feel, Amalfi spans tall floor-to-ceiling cabinets, vanity units and under-basin storage, WC cabinetry and wall cabinets. Amalfi is available in Charcoal (pictured), Hunter Green and Pebble. Request a brochure at www.rdr.link/KAX022
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Bath manufacturer BC Designshas launched Gio, a minimalist and contemporary egg-shaped bath, as part of a series of designs. Measuring 1645mm in length, the curved design creates a visual rhythm that provides a softer feel to a bathroom project. Offering a 160-litre bathing area, Gio is made from Cian solid surface and is available in polished white, matt white and eight colours, as part of its ColourKast range. www.rdr.link/KAX024
Bathroom brassware brand Aqualla has introduced a range of mirrors, including colour changing temperature LEDs and Bluetooth technology. The six-strong range spans round, three quarter circle, abstract and rectangular designs and includes: Horizon, Pebble, Studio, Gallery, Solaris and Vision. Horizon is a three quarter circular design, backlit with LEDs, and comes in two sizes: 800 x 746mm and 1200 x 1120mm. Discover more at www.rdr.link/KAX025
Adding to its portfolio of stone, freestanding tubs, Waters Baths of Ashbourne has unveiled the Essence collection for smaller bathrooms. The four-strong, luxury collection boasts the curves and scoops of its full-sized counterparts. It includes Escape, Aurora, Azure and Mist II, all in a matt or gloss finish. Find out more about the range at www.rdr.link/KAX026
Director and founder of brand and performance marketing agency
Door4 Leon Calverley explains why businesses are increasing marketing spend in 2024 and advises on how to balance performance marketing with brand building.
A recent report into UK-wide marketing spend has shown, in general, marketing budgets are increasing. But against a backdrop of raised advertising costs, consumers looking to spend less on nonessentials and changes to how marketers can target audiences in a cookieless world, how should businesses operating in the kitchen and bathroom sector approach their marketing strategies in 2024?
During challenging times, you might think that it’s time to be cautious with marketing spend, or just focus on short-term promotions. However, insights from the latest IPA Bellwether Report, the quarterly study of marketers’ confidence, reinforce companies have taken learnings from previous difficult trading periods and are investing in maintaining their brand’s presence.
Rather than just focusing on short-term performance marketing, the report shows businesses are allocating their marketing spend with a longer-term lens, to safeguard market share and build brand loyalty. This is evidenced by more investment in media advertising and events, as well as optimism that consumer confidence will return by the latter part of the year in 2025.
By channel, five of the seven sectors analysed in the Bellwether Report recorded positive net balances during the last quarter of 2023: Events (15.9% of businesses indicated they
upwardly revised their budgets for events), direct marketing (12.6%), PR (1.9%), main media advertising which spans TV, online and Out Of Home (1.9%) and sales promotions (1.4%).
And this strategy makes sense for kitchen and bathroom retailers where customers aren’t always in the market for ‘bigger ticket items’, but for when they enter the consideration phase of their journey you’re front of mind. The key, even during a cost-ofliving crisis and recessionary headwinds, is to optimise marketing strategies that balance short-term gains with long-term brand building and business growth.
Investment should be placed in future demand channels and attention-rich media to continue to nurture brand building and customer loyalty from the perspective of driving business growth.
68% of home and furniture shoppers research brands using search engines, whilst 38% use the brands’ website. With this in mind, budgets for search and proactive website optimisation should remain a strong area of investment in 2024.
Just over a quarter (27%) of home decor and furniture shoppers use social media to research brands. Meta, which is Facebook and Instagram, still reigns supreme in this space despite the growth of newer platforms such as TikTok. Spend should therefore continue to be focused on these proven channels which are backed by audience insight.
Video and YouTube are also valuable for kitchen and bathroom retailers. How-to guides, product walk-throughs, and case studies can all play a crucial role in longer-term brand building whilst boosting search visibility.
Your budget may stretch further than you think in traditional channels such as radio, TV and Out Of Home advertising and these could provide the perfect opportunity to steal a march against your competitors.
Of course, with any marketing strategy, it is crucial to continually measure, learn and adjust campaigns for the best results. ROI is nonnegotiable. So, too, is a strategy that can adapt to fluctuating consumer spending habits as well as your competitors’ marketing efforts. Discover more about Door4 at
Just as you focus on your showroom to find the right product mix for your business, independent retailers should pay the same attention to seeking out the best people. So, have you considered open door recruitment? Very simply, it’s opening the door to potential new hires with a well-planned open day for your business.
It doesn’t have to be an all-singing, alldancing, fully catered event, but a dedicated morning or afternoon at your premises to attract local talent. You and your team can informally assess people. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure that every local customer knows you’re there!
You can invite speculative applicants who you may already have on file, to see if there’s real potential. You can involve your whole team by asking them if they know anyone who might be a good fit. This is a win-win situation, as not only are you involving your
people in the future of your business, but you’re also giving them more ownership and showing them their viewpoints count.
Reach out to any relevant local and regional colleges and training providers too. In fact, if you really want to get maximum impact from your event, I strongly advise you collaborate with a specialist recruiter, as they have access to jobseekers in line with your needs.
And, for me personally, I would go straight on to my LinkedIn profile to publicise the event, invite connections, and ultimately spread the word on social media.
LinkedIn research tells us a whopping 87% of all active and passive candidates are open to new job opportunities. The number one reason people do change roles is because they want more career opportunities. With this in mind, an open day will allow you to demonstrate how you can provide career
longevity, and even start an impromptu questions and answers session if you feel it worthwhile!
We all know that events need a beginning, middle and end, so think about what will work best for you and your team. It’s also worth noting that no-one wants a formal presentation –your guests are there to get a taste of your business – so I highly recommend the use of video to introduce yourself and the company in a dynamic, engaging and far more memorable way. It could include videos of your employees and even your suppliers. And don’t forget to create content for your company’s social media, as capturing the buzz of your open day with photos and short videos will work as great promotion during and after the event.
Find out more about Foyne Jones recruitment services at www.rdr.link/KAX028
What has been driving KBN’s website traffic?
Here are the top three stories with the biggest hits in February on www.kandbnews.co.uk
Swedish furniture group
Nobiareported net sales declined by 19% to SEK 3,050m (3,780) in its year end report for 2023. It stated the kitchen market had declined “significantly” during 2023, following a period of high inflation, increased interest rates, and “substantially” lower housing construction activity. As a consequence, Nobia said consumers were less confident and more hesitant to invest in capital goods, such as new kitchens. Read the story at www.rdr.link/KAX029
German kitchen franchise Kutchenhaus has appointed James Slater as its head of central operations. Joining from Magnet Kitchens, where he was UK central operations manager, Slater brings a wealth of experience to the role. He has worked in the kitchen industry and wider retail for over 20 years, such as the Co-op, Lidl and Tesco. Read more at www.rdr.link/KAX030
Manufacturer Aquadart Bathrooms has been placed into administration. Anthony Collier and Martyn Rickels from FRP Advisory Trading were appointed as joint administrators. The shower tray manufacturing section of Aquadart Bathrooms was transferred to Yorkshire Shower Trays, operating from the company’s premises at North Dean Road, Keighley. While the distribution business has transferred to Aquadart Brand Sales Limited. View the story at www.rdr.link/KAX031
Here is a useful summary of all the adverts that appear in this issue of Kitchens & Bathrooms News. Each is listed with its page number and a direct URL that will get you straight to the relevant online information.
Aqualla Brassware................................................................(page 9)
Burlington............................................................................(page 31) www.rdr.link/KAX101
Blanco Ltd..............................................................................(page 4) www.rdr.link/KAX102
James Latham......................................................................(page 10)
House of Rohl/Victoria & Albert......................(inside front cover) www.rdr.link/KAX104
KBSA....................................................................(inside back cover)
www.rdr.link/KAX105
Kudos Shower Products Ltd..............................................(page 26)
www.rdr.link/KAX106
Neolith..................................................................................(page 18)
www.rdr.link/KAX107
SFA Saniflo UK Ltd..............................................................(page 16)
www.rdr.link/KAX108
Symphony Group PLC........................................................(page 21) www.rdr.link/KAX109
The Kitchen Depot................................................................(page 6) www.rdr.link/KAX110
Waterline Ltd..................................................................(back cover)
www.rdr.link/KAX111
