Kitchens and Bathrooms News September 2023

KBN

HOTH KITCHENS

“We’re the biggest kitchen showroom in The Cotswolds”

CONTENTS

NEWS

& VIEWS

5First word Editor’s comment

7News

Round-up of industry headlines

17People Appointments and promotions

19Last word

MD of Hill’s Panel Products (HPP) Keith Wardrope on the important of business succession

20MHK Conference

We offer an overview of the annual conference in Berlin and what retailers can take away from the event.

SHOWROOMS & SUPPLIERS

22Retailer focus

Owner of Hoth Kitchens Rich Stone talks about opening his second Caple studio which is reportedly the biggest kitchen showrrom in The Cotswolds

26Supplier profile

Following its recent acquisition by SanSwiss, Kudos explains how it will accelerate plans to become the UK’s largest shower enclosure and tray supplier

30Interview

Barry Custy, general manager of radiator manufacturer Carisa, on the company’s focus on independent retail following the launch of its Luxury collection

KITCHEN TRENDS

33Filtered water taps

How filtered water taps are saving the planet, pleasing the palate and reducing long-term costs for consumers

36Just out

Latest kitchen products

38Q&A

Sales director of Omega James Bishton says now is the right time for the launch of a new handleless kitchen brand

BATHROOM TRENDS

41Luxury baths

Why luxury baths are not all about the freestanding tub

44Just out

Latest bathroom products

46Bathroom furniture

Floorstanding furniture continues to flourish, despite the popularity of wall-hung.

RETAIL BUSINESS

48Company matters

SME advice offering support across sales, management, financial, marketing and social media

49Apprenticeship column

Learning and development manager at the Builders Merchants Federation Kerry Wilson offers practical tips on how to take on an apprentice

New From Design Series

Introducing our brand new collection of Zara and Layla furniture and sanitaryware. With their unique design elements, the stepped features of Zara bring a sense of architectural elegance and geometric precision, while the curves of Layla soften the overall look, adding a touch of fluidity and organic beauty. This combination creates a balance between sharp lines and graceful curves, resulting in a visually captivating and balanced design.

It was American business magnate and, reportedly, the world’s first billionaire John D Rockefeller who said: “Don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great”. And in line with his philosophy, you may have noticed some recent changes to Kitchens & Bathrooms News, with an abbreviated name and a revised look. So welcome to KBN, which now features an elegant and highly aspirational aesthetic.

Reflecting change in the interiors and design movement, the time was right to revise the magazine. It not only brings KBN into line with the visual language of our website, but the timeless design ensures we will meet readers’ needs for years to come. However, KBN will also hold true to its original values, to deliver the latest trends, products, ideas and opinions. Most importantly, KBN will continue to be THE magazine to help retailers be the best business they can be, by arming them with business advice from industry professionals.

Our changes closely mirror the wider KBB industry, with suppliers, retailers

and designers adapting their strategies to define and enhance their businesses. It has seen new brands enter the market, enhanced online services and improved lead times, all to support KBB retailers. While the retail market has seen new showroom openings, expansion into new markets and consideration of new technologies and new ways to do business.

All of which means, despite the economy, optimism abounds in the KBB sector, as challenges also present opportunities. Against the backdrop of an economic downturn, the independent

retail sector is resilient, with KBB retailers and designers showcasing their agility and ingenuity to tap into the wider consumer trends of digital business acceleration and increasing expectation.

From online or Augmented Reality configuration and Virtual Reality CAD, social media marketing and Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital will become ever more important for KBB retail and design. It will help meet higher consumer expectations, by providing more immersive and memorable shopping experiences from initial keyboard search through to showroom visits and even aftersales care.

In fact, independent retailers and designers are perfectly positioned to meet the demands of the most demanding of consumers by providing a truly personalised project design service.

retailers will welcome change and, by doing so, will continue to thrive.

Editor

Philippa Turrell

e: pturrell@hamerville.co.uk

Designer Donna Booth

Group Production Manager

Carol Padgett

e: carol@hamerville.co.uk

Group Advertisement Manager

Craig Jowsey

e: craig@hamerville.co.uk

Advertisement Manager

Marcus Hooper

e: mhooper@hamerville.co.uk

Digital Manager

Jasmine Smith

e: jsmith@hamerville.co.uk

Digital Assistant

Lydia McFarlane

e: lmcfarlane@hamerville.co.uk

Printer Stephens & George Ltd

Kitchens & Bathrooms News, Hamerville Media Group Ltd, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF.

Editorial & Sales Enquiries

Phone: 01923 237799

ABC total average net circulation 13,505 (for 11 issues distributed between January to December 2022)

MAKING HEADLINES

reaches £40million Harrison Bathroom reports “record” £40m turnover

Distributor Harrison Bathrooms, and owner of the Scudo brand, has reported a “record” turnover of £40million, for the last 12 months up to and including July 2023.

Formed in 2013, the Yorkshire-based company supplies bathrooms to retailers throughout the UK & Ireland.

According to the company, it has experienced continued yearon-year growth since its formation and has featured in the Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 league table twice, once in 2018 and again in 2020.

This year has seen the

opening of two new offices and warehousing facilities, packing, and tracking locations in North Leeds and Seacroft.

It enables the 130-strong company to fulfil 24-hour delivery from over 200,000sqft of warehouse and £9million stocking facility.

This expansion has allowed the business to service market demand, and its decision to import more products from Europe than China has helped streamline its supply chain and stabilise pricing.

Additionally, Harrison Bathrooms recently signed an

exclusive deal with Ideal Bathrooms to distribute its Scudo brand.

Commenting on its financial results, managing director James Harrison said: “We are proud to achieve such an outstanding result despite challenging market conditions.”

Back in 2019, we set the bold target to reach £40 million by 2023, and I’m pleased to report

Legal restrictions on administration decision Mereway kitchens reports

Managing director of Mereway Kitchens Mark Mills has announced it is business as usual, following the company’s decision to call in administrators.

Mark Mills commented: “I wanted to take a moment to directly address recent events and provide clarity on the current state of affairs here at Mereway Kitchens.

“First and foremost, let me assure you: it’s business as usual at Mereway Kitchens.

“Unfortunately, due to legal constraints stemming from ongoing discussions, we couldn’t share our decision to file a notice of intention for administration as promptly as we would have liked.”

He continued: “I sincerely apologise for any uncertainty this may have caused.

“Please understand that this decision was made after careful consideration, with our

we have surpassed this ambitious milestone.

“Since our launch in 2013, our focus has always been on delivering growth; this has accelerated, and turnover has doubled in the last few years.

“I want to thank our forwardthinking, committed team and valued retail partners for their continued support. We could not have done it without you.”

“business

valued customers and partners in mind and we’re working diligently to ensure minimal disruption as we navigate this path.”

Mills thanked customers and staff for their support, during this time, and said the company would be announcing “positive” developments shortly.

“Our top priority has always been to uphold the strong relationships we have with our customers and to that end, my area sales managers, customer service teams and fellow directors have contacted all key customers to provide assurances that orders are still being placed and delivered.

“We are overwhelmed and grateful to our customers and our staff for their unwavering loyalty and support.

As we look ahead, there are more positive developments that we have been

as usual”

diligently working towards which we hope to announce next week.

“In conclusion, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your continued support.

“The KBB sector thrives on the strength of our relationships, and I’m confident that by working together, we’ll overcome any challenges that come our way”.

Established in 1986, Mereway Kitchens recently rebranded with a new visual identity to position the company in the luxury sector.

Distributor

IN BRIEF

Founder of bathroom

specialist D rummonds,

D rummond Shaw passed away at his home in D orset, on June

2 8, 2023 He set up

D rummonds Architectural

Antiques in 1988 and it

became known for supplying

antique bathroom fit tings,

which it restored for sale in its own workshops Today

D rummonds is a leading

bathroom specialist with

showrooms in London and New York Read the obituary at www.rdr.link/KS001

Kitchen distributor

Waterline now offers a benefits package, including discounts and credit terms, to retail members of trade association the Kbsa. It follows on from the distributor becoming a corporate member of Kbsa to help support independent retailers. Waterline will offer a minimum credit of £5,000 to Kbsa members, as well as discounts on selected appliance, worktop and lighting brands Read the details at www.rdr.link/KS002

KBB distributor PJH has

announced £1mil lion sales

from the first 12 months of its

agreement with high- end

appliance manufacturer Miele

The distributor offers 200

SKUs from Miele spanning

cooking, dishwashers,

refrigeration and laundry

models Read more at www rdr link/KS003

F o r m e r M i e l e s a l e s d i r e c t o r j o i n s N Z a p p l i a n c e m a n u f a c t u r e r

Fisher & Paykel names new COO

New Zealand luxury appliance brand Fisher & Paykel has appointed Stephen Rickersey as its chief operating officer for the UK, Ireland and Europe Rickersey has joined the company from Miele, where he held a senior leadership position as sales director, and prior to that worked as head of sales at Whirlpool Corporation

With over 17 years of

consumer goods experience in customer and category management, he wil l steer Fisher & Paykel to cement its position “as the appliance brand of choice” in the luxury market

Commenting on his appointment, Stephen Rickersey said: “I am joining Fisher & Paykel at a hugely transformative

time for the company

“The business is on the cusp of many great things in multiple channels, and I am thrilled to be leading a team with values of trust, curiosity, generosity, sustainability and innovation at its core

“These values are what drew me to the brand, as wel l as its rich New Zealand heritage that is synonymous with a deep connection to food and wine care in the appliance design world ”

According to Fisher & Paykel, 2023 wil l be a pivotal year with product launches to appeal to kitchen retailers, architects, designers and premium house builders

It wil l also see the opening of the company’s first UK Experience Centre in London

Q u a r t e r o f a c e n t u r y e x p e r i e n c e w i t h c o m p a n y

Furthermore, Fisher & Paykel has plans to invest in teams to influence designer, architect and builder communities, over the medium to long-term, with an apprenticeship scheme to provide young people job opportunities

Whirlpool UK appoints Goldsmith MD

W hirlpool UK Appliances, parent company of Hotpoint, has announced the appointment of James Goldsmith as

managing director, UK and

Ireland

He has succeeded Lena

Henry who held the role, having

joined the company in July 2022 James Goldsmith brings a wealth of experience of the domestic appliance industry to his new position, having worked for Whirlpool for over 25 years

Having started his career at

Indesit, Goldsmith covered several positions with

increasing responsibility in the

regional head office in Italy and the UK

In the UK, his previous responsibilities included both marketing director and commercial director roles

In 2016 Goldsmith moved to KitchenAid EMEA, based in B elgium, where the business doubled during his tenure as

general manager James Goldsmith, managing director, UK and Ireland, Whirlpool UK Appliances Limited, said: “I’m extremely proud to return to the UK and embark on a new chal lenge with the company “I look forward to applying the knowledge and experience that I have acquired throughout my career to build upon and further strengthen our retail relationships, drive our brands and services forward and nurture even more col laborative and engaged teamwork moving forward together”

IN BRIEF

Bathroom supplier HiB has announced Home-Start UK as its first corporate charity partnership, with a £20,000 donation The charity offers practical help and emotional assistance during times of need As part of the partnership, HiB held a charity football match, with funds donated to the charity alongside other local causes www.rdr.link/KS004

Ahead of its return in March 2024, biennial trade exhibition kbb Birmingham has announced the launch of its

Innovation Awards, in partnership with Blum Now in its sixth year, the awards recognise new methods and

ideas or products that demonstrate innovation with the winners announced at the show. D iscover more at www.rdr.link/KS005

Glazed titanium steel bathroom manufacturer B et te has celebrated a milestone of producing

100,000 products made from ‘green’ CO2 -neutral steel By using green steel, the company, reduced its

CO2 emissions by10% percent in 2021 and nearly 40% in

2022 Read more about the company’s plans at www.rdr.link/KS006

B a t h r o o m f u r n i t u r e m a n u f a c t u r e r F D t a k e s r e i n s

Woodstock Trading appoints new MD

L uxury bathroom furniture business Woodstock Trading has appointed Alex Seaborn as managing director He succeeds Mark D oouss who has assumed the role of CEO, while CEO B en D oouss has transitioned to chairman

Having spent two years as financial director of Woodstock Trading, Seaborn has led the finance, IT, HR, and purchasing functions of the business Prior to that he worked for six years at Forest Garden as group financial director, during which time the business doubled in size

With a background in finance and understanding of market dynamics, Seaborn is poised to lead Woodstock Trading toward achieving its growth targets

Alex Seaborn commented on

his new role: “I’m exceptional ly excited for the future of Woodstock We have al l the right ingredients in the business from supportive owners, leading brands, products and service levels, a robust infrastructure, and a fantastic team of people

“I’m looking forward to building on the achievements over the last 20 years, helping Woodstock to continue to grow ”

Chairman of Woodstock Trading B en D oouss commented: “We are delighted to appoint Alex Seaborn as our new managing director

“His extensive commercial experience and commitment to growth make him the perfect fit for leading Woodstock Trading’s next phase

“We remain steadfast in our

dedication to providing outstanding levels of service and delivering market-leading luxury bathroom furniture as we embark on this exciting journey ”

Established for 20 years, Woodstock Trading provides Calypso and Veldeau bathroom furniture brands and is currently expanding its warehouse to meet demand

Expected to be completed by the end of the year, the warehouse expansion will double its capacity.

A p p l i a n c e g r o u p h a s 1 7 0 f a c t o r i e s a n d s e l l s t o 1 6 0 c o u n t r i e s

Haier Europe highlights growth

A ppliance group Haier Europe held its annual 1 Vision Conference at the Rum Warehouse in

Liverpool, under the theme “D ream, B elieve, Achieve” The conference enabled the company to demonstrate its recent growth of Haier, Candy and Hoover brands, as wel l as highlight its future ambitions Haier Europe CEO for the UK and Ireland, D avid

Meyerowitz opened the event stating the company’s growth had been “phenomenal”, with 170 factories, selling to 160 countries, serving 1 billion customers,

through 140,000 retail partners

He also pointed out the company is number 1 in washers and washer dryers with fast growth occurring in the cooling

market

“By 2025, 100% of our sales wil l be connected appliances, ” he said and “they wil l focus on

the “ ultimate user experience ”

With a global turnover of €32

bil lion, Yannick Fierling CEO of

Haier Europe stated the company now has a worldwide market share of 17%

Yannick Fierling stated smart appliances driving sustainability was a key focus for the company, by updating its appliances through its hO n app

In addition, partnering with O ctopus Energy, it al lows Haier to inform users when they can capitalise on cheaper energy

IN BRIEF

WEX Trade has become the official distribution partner for Formica, in a move to improve efficiencies and customer access to products. Formica previously worked with a number of distribution partners in the UK including WEX Trade, IDS, Deralam UK and Potter Cowan. Formica will continue selling to Deralam which distributes in the UK, and Potter Cowan covering Ireland. View the story at www.rdr.link/KS007

Livingetc has honoured KBB retailers and manufacturers in its recent Style Awards. There were 10 awards presented across kitchen and bathroom categories, including Best Bespoke Joinery awarded to Blakes London, Best Kitchen presented to Sola Kitchens and Best Bathroom Collaboration which recognised the Grohe Private Collection. For a full list of winners view www.rdr.link/KS008

Family-owned furniture fittings business Blum has recorded a drop in turnover of 12% to €2.3m million for the 2022/2023 financial year ended 30 June 2023. Following a period of “above-average” growth, including an 11.6% increase in  2021/22, managing directors Martin and Philipp Blum said it was an expected and foreseeable development. www.rdr.link/KS009

Keynote speaker focuses on how AI can enhance KBB retail AI

expert joins Kbsa Conference

Trade association the Kbsa has added an AI professional to its speaker programme at the KBB Industry Conference, which takes place  on September 27 at the Belfry Hotel and Resort in the West Midlands.

Mike Bradley, founder of Josef.network, is an Oxford graduate, with over 20 years’ experience of working with renowned global brands on digital innovation, strategic planning and technology adoption.

He currently leads a team providing end-to-end AI solutions and personalised experiences for clients.

His talk “Building Success: How AI Can Enhance Your

Business”, will explore how to unleash potential for inspiration and innovation through artificial intelligence.

Bradley will share insights into how AI can be implemented to transform businesses and highlight opportunities for AI to spark ingenuity and enhance experiences.

Kbsa chair Richard Hibbert said: “AI is an important addition to the programme. It is such a hot topic, not yet fully understood, and often perceived as a negative for business that we wanted to have the opportunity to dispel the misconceptions, and shed some light on the positives.”

The KBB Industry

One in 12 employees have been an apprentice

Conference 2023 will be hosted by the journalist and broadcaster Juliet Morris, followed by an awards dinner in the evening.

Award winning comedian, presenter, actor, author and scriptwriter Russell Kane will host the 2023 Designer Awards..

Howdens celebrates “record” apprentices

Trade kitchen supplier Howdens held a graduation ceremony to honour 215 apprentices who completed their apprenticeship in 2022 – a record for the business – at the NCC in Birmingham.

The apprenticeship programme covers roles across its business including within its 800-strong depots, logistics, manufacturing, engineering and IT.

Howdens achieved 34th place in the Top 100 Apprentice Employers table 2023.

Graduates from across Scotland, England and Wales celebrated with their friends and family, with the ceremony

hosted by two former apprentices, and talks from Howdens’ CEO Andrew Livingston, regional director Wales and West Tim Mason and operations director Julian Lee.

Since 2009, Howdens has employed over 4,300 apprentices and currently one in 12 Howdens’ employees started out as an apprentice.

In addition, almost 80% of graduates, who completed the apprenticeship programme last

year, remain in the business in a permanent role.

Early careers manager at Howdens  Emma Leech said: “We are delighted to have been able to honour our apprentices at the graduation ceremony.

“At Howdens we are very proud of the graduates and our apprenticeship programme. We know it is the ideal way to develop people and to prepare them for a happy, productive, and rewarding career.”

Win

Qube furniture from Utopia

Scoop this double drawer washbasin unit in new Indigo Blue with ceramic basin, tap, mirror and tall storage unit worth £2,072 RRP.

To celebrate the launch of its all new Qube Collection, now available with free despatch within 48 hours, Utopia is offering one lucky winner the chance to win the bathroom furniture shown here.

Utopia has refreshed and extended Qube, its range of wall mounted and freestanding bathroom furniture, with the introduction of a second design style, new on-trend colours, complementary accent handles and trims and a host of supporting ancillary items.

Strengthening and broadening the range, Qube is now available in a choice of Qube

Glide, the original handleless doorstyle, and new Qube Edge with the option for a top mounted handle.

Four brand new door colours join the collection, including deep Indigo Blue and verdant Wild Green reflecting current trends in interior design for bold colours alongside two new matt finishes – Matt White and Matt Grey. The four new colours join White Gloss and two existing textured finishes, Anthracite Strata and Sorrento Walnut, samples of all finishes are available free of charge.

Further extending the choice, Qube now includes a new ceramic cloakroom basin

option and a new tall toilet unit, new mirror options plus a host of new push button and flush plate options available in Chrome, Matt Black and Brushed Brass with new coordinating basin overflow rings.

Also extended is the choice of worktops to complement Qube furniture. The existing 22mm laminate range now includes three new options, Matt Grey, Cararra Marble and Marquina, and a new 12mm compact laminate range of natural stone effects has been added.

Enter the competition at www.rdr.link/KAS011

Aw a r d s p r e s e n t e d a c r o s s s e v e n c a t e g o r i e s

Hafele UK names Studio Partner Award winners

M anufacturer and distributor Häfele UK announced the winners of its seventh annual Studio Partner Awards, at a circus Big Top -themed event at Warwick Castle The Häfele Studio Partner programme is a network of independent kitchen studios, selected by the company, based on customer service, business excel lence and growth Awards were presented across seven categories, with 17 studios vying to be named the winners

T h e s e i n c l u d e d B e st S h owro o m Ex p e r i e n c e, B e st Fu n ct i o n a l S p a c e, Ki tc h e n

D e s i g n o f t h e Ye a r, B e st S a l e s a n d

Ma rket i n g In i t i at ive, R i s i n g S t a r a n d c ovete d S t u d i o Pa r tn e r o f t h e Ye a r In addition, Häfele also recognised its own sales team, with the category Area Sales

Manager of the Year

The winners were as fol lows:

Studio Partner of the Year

In2 Group

B est Sales and Marketing Initiative

D uncans of Grantown

B est Showroom Experience

– Regal Kitche ns

B est Functional Space

- Kettle Co Kitche ns

Kitchen Design of the Year

– Hugo & Co

Rising Star Award

– Alexande r Paul Kitche ns

Hafele ASM of the Year

– Carol D owling

Newly-appointed managing director Richard Curtis used the opportunity to thank its Studio Partners, during what has been a chal lenging time for the business, fol lowing a c yber at tack earlier

E x p e r t p a n e l p o i n t s t o s h a r e d d u t y

S ustainability is a col lective responsibility and there needs to be more support for retailers to help consumers make bet ter decisions, was the view of an expert panel at a Lecico

Bathroom event

The Future of Sustainable

Bathrooms was held at Country

Hal l in London, with a panel discussion chaired by head of marketing Sean Foley

It included managing director of Lecico Bathrooms

Antony Thompson, CEO of the

Bathroom Manufacturers

Association Tom Reynolds and

head of sustainability at

Byggfakta, parent company of

Glenigan and NBS, Lee Jones

Tom Reynolds pointed out there needed to be greater col laboration between

Government and water

companies to address issues such as low water pressure, which impacts the ability of

manufacturers to create water-

this year

He said, “Nearly five months have passed since Häfele suffered a c yber-at tack and I’m very pleased that we’re now back to next- day delivery

“I can’t express how grateful we are for your patience and understanding

Curtis continued, speaking about the importance of partnerships in a chal lenging environment: “If we can show that [same] level of support, that level of partnership together, I

think we can ride out the next 1218 months, because there is no doubt it’s going to be a tricky period ”

Speaking about the awards, sales director at Häfele UK Gareth Bevan said: “From the calibre of the entries, it is clear that the Häfele Studio Partners are some of the best in the business

“

O ur 2023 winners, as wel l as the other 11 studios shortlisted, should be enormously proud of their achievements Congratulations to al l. ”

efficient products

While MD at Lecico

Bathrooms Antony Thompson said: “the promotion of water efficienc y could be bet ter promoted in retail showrooms, with greater emphasis in displays and enhanced training ” S p e a k i n g o n b e h a l f o f

b a t h r o o m m a n u f a c t u r e r s , h e s a i d : “We’ve got to do more to help the retailer, help the

consumer make bet ter choices ” He also said consumers must

play their part and take responsiblity for making considered decisions Tom Reynolds added: “Everyone has a shared responsibility from the manufacturer through to the consumer and we’ve al l got to learn to communicate the credentials of products – al l the way through ”

Sustainability is collective responsibility, reports Lecico event

L a u n c h e d a l o n g s i d e I n s t a l l e r S H O W

Kitchens & Bathrooms

Installer to launch in 2024

Organiser of Instal lerSHOW, Lyrical Communications wil l debut Instal ler Kitchens & Bathrooms, at the NEC in Birmingham from June 27-29,

2024

Instal ler Kitchens & Bathrooms wil l showcase the role technology and innovation play in shaping the kitchens and bathrooms of the future to an expected 20,000 -strong audience of instal lers, specifiers, designers, developers, manufacturers and retailers.

Launched alongside the

Instal lerSHOW and featuring its own dedicated content programme, the aim of Instal ler Kitchens & Bathrooms is to bring the industry together, with education, knowledge sharing

and networking.

The themes covered by Installer Kitchens & Bathrooms will include water and energy efficiency in both domestic and commercial buildings, design innovation, sustainable and smart technology, and changing legislation and regulation

Managing director of Lyrical Communications Mike Costain said: “Having successful ly established Instal lerSHOW as the key meeting place in the UK for the bathroom sector, we are delighted to have partnered with

BMA and BIKBBI in extending our proposition to the kitchen industry

“Specifiers, instal lers and retailers from the kitchen and bathroom industry wil l no doubt

flock to the event in 2024 to see the latest technologies and solutions on the exhibition floor as wel l as hear from key names in our content programme ”

CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association Tom Reynolds said: “The launch of Instal ler Kitchens & Bathrooms is great news for the industry.

“The buzz around Instal lerSHOW has real ly been gathering momentum for the last few years, with more and more BMA members exhibiting and the introduction of a bathroom zone

“A hal l dedicated to the

H o u s e o f R o h l b r a n d s o w n e r b u i l d s m a n u f a c t u r i n g p l a n t w i t h t r a i n i n g c e n t r e

exciting future of kitchens and bathrooms wil l boost that momentum even further BMA is excited to be involved ”

Damian Walters, chief executive of the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathrooms

Installation (BiKBBI), added: ” BiKBBI welcomes the evolution of InstallerSHOW, which will soon include a kitchen and bathroom hall for the first time

“We’re delighted to support the development of the programme and we look forward to being part of the 2024 plans ”

Fortune Brands invests in UK manufacturing

USA-based Fortune Brands Innovations has started building a manufacturing centre of excel lence in South Staffordshire, UK

The “significant” investment in British manufacturing wil l support its luxury kitchen and bathroom brands and act as the company’s HQ for Europe, Midd le East and Africa Water Innovations portfolio

The company owns House of Rohl brands – Victoria + Albert, Perrin & Rowe, Shaws of Darwen, Riobel – as well as Aqualisa.

Located at the i5 4 Business Park, the 270,000 sq ft facility wil l include a Customer

Experience Centre and Training Facility

D ue to be operational by the end of the year, the company expects to create nearly

250 new jobs with the opening of the facility

General manager Steve Geary commented: “This investment reflects our continued commitment to the luxury ceramics and brassware sectors and we are hugely excited about the project

“This new facility wil l al low us to bet ter service our customers and facilitate future growth ”

Council lor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council D eputy Leader and

Cabinet Member for Inclusive City Economy, speaking on behalf of the i5 4

Partnership, said: “The arrival of Fortune Brands Innovations at the i5 4 South Staffordshire western extension is fantastic news for the county and Wolverhampton

“This is a major multi-national

organisation that wil l sit perfectly alongside our other high- calibre employers on what is one of the most successful business parks in the UK ”

POSITION FILLED

Appointments and promotions across the industry

VITRA BATHROOMS

Bathroom manufacturer VitrA has made key appointments across its sales and marketing teams. Sam Cooke has joined the business as retail sales director, succeeding Darren Paxford who headed sales for 27 years. Amanda Raine has been announced as marketing director, taking over from Margaret Talbot who retired after eight years with the business. Cooke joins VitrA from distributor Davroc, where he was director of sales. With over 10 years’ experience in the bathroom and construction industries, Raine joins VitrA Bathrooms from her role as head of brand and communications at the Bristan Group.

MASTERCLASS KITCHENS

British manufacturer Masterclass Kitchens has appointed Mark Quinton as area sales manager role for East Anglia, Essex and North London. He joins Masterclass with a wealth of knowledge, having worked for a number of kitchen manufacturers, as well as having spent time in the retail sector. On joining the company, Mark Quinton said: “I’m looking forward to this exciting new chapter, meeting and working with our like-minded retail partners, and driving the brand forwards in my region.’’

SONAS BATHROOMS

Irish brand Sonas Bathrooms has appointed Peter Vaughan as area sales manager for the Southwest of England and South Wales, as part of an expansion of its UK team. Vaughan brings over 25 years of sales experience to the role, gained at companies such as Novellini, Jacuzzi, and Wellis.

Showreels

We produce exclusive videos for kandbnews.co.uk, interviewing industry leaders about industry-wide issues and retail initiatives, as well as providing showroom tours. Here are our latest, just in case you’ve missed them.

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND KBSA CONFERENCE AS A KITCHEN DESIGNER

Award-winning retailer Belinda Dangerfield of Qudaus Living explains why kitchen designers and bathroom designers should attend the Kbsa Conference 2023. She says it provides throught-provoking debate and a not-to-be-missed networking opportunty for emerging designers and retailers. Watch www.rdr.link/KAS013

TWO-MINUTE TOUR: BAGNODESIGN SHOWROOM

We take a quick tour of the Bagnodesign showroom in Clerkenwell, London, which opened during Clerkenwell Design Week. The twofloor showroom has been designed for architects and designers to network, discuss ideas and plan for future projects. It also includes a dedicated meeting room and entertainment area, with a built-in bar. View www.rdr.link/KAS014

TEN YEARS AFTER FIRST DISRUPTING THE UK KBB RETAIL MARKET, WHAT’S NEXT FOR KBBG?

MD of the KBBG, part of Der Kreis. Bill Miller explains the journey of introducing a buying group to UK KBB retail. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary in the UK, he explains how it has expanded membership and suppliers. He also discusses the current state of the KBB retail market and why he’s optimistic about future kitchen and bathroom sales. See www.rdr.link/KAS015

TWO-MINUTE TOUR: CLERKENWELL 2023

We take a look around the resident showrooms participating in Clerkenwell Design Week 2023. Around 160 showrooms revealed product launches and activations during the three-day show, which this year saw a record number of visitors. We check out the bathroom and kitchen events of interest to designers and specifiers. Discover the highlights at www.rdr.link/KAS016

The importance of succession planning

MD of Hill’s Panel Products

Succession planning is one of the most difficult challenges you will ever face in your career, but probably the most rewarding. Whilst it’s one of the fundamentals of good business management, there comes a time when you have to plan for your own retirement, and how you approach that time makes the difference between a seamless transition and continued success – or not. My approach to this is totally transparent, relaxed, confident and one to look forward to. You have to take yourself out of the day-today picture, look at the company and the people within it and never build the company around yourself.

Gradual retirement

Don’t get me wrong, retirement doesn’t mean suddenly riding off into the sunset, it’s a gradual process. In my case, I now work three days a week and circumstances permitting, I’ll reduce that to two days and then I’d like to provide consultancy. That’s part of the succession; other people now have to make decisions when I’m not there, but still be relaxed enough to know they can call on me if they need a bit of help and

advice. My strategy has always been to plan for the future and a succession plan is a five to seven-year process, or even longer. If you’re a supervisor and want to become a manager you can’t until you’ve found someone to replace you. That applies at every level.

Choosing recruits

Here at HPP, I started to take notice of potential successors as along as 10 years ago, looking at who’s doing well and earmarking and keeping an eye on how they develop, and then you start working closely with them to mentor them. The people here who have been earmarked for succession to directors have worked really hard to get there and are doing a brilliant job. They’ve known the process they’re in, and nothing has been handed to them on a plate – in fact, I’ve probably worked them harder than I would work myself.

All of this is a gradual process. Have faith in your team and enjoy the transition, helping others is really rewarding. There are always younger people coming through the ranks, they will have more drive, determination and energy to do it when their time comes.

Bigger picture

Take a step back and look at the bigger picture, are the people coming through better at some things than you are – and don’t be scared by that. You can’t be the best at everything all the time. You have good knowledge, but you have to give it to others and then they can bring in their own ideas. Let them make small mistakes and don’t micromanage people when you’re mentoring them to a different level. Relax, if you’re needed, you’re still there.

And while you’re going through this mentoring process, if you’re happy with the outcomes tell them they’ve done a great job and encourage them even more. The key is having a close relationship and trusting them 100% and, hopefully, they trust you 100%.

As easy as I’m making this sound, it is difficult to hand over responsibility. I remember coming in a few months ago and there was a meeting taking place. My first thought was why are they having a meeting without me? But you’ve just got to get over it and understand it’s the process you’ve put in place, so you shouldn’t be surprised by it.

If you do this right, it should be one of your greatest career accomplishments!

(HPP) Ltd Keith Wardrope explains why older business leaders should not be afraid to let go of the reins.

MHK praises resilient retailers for its growth

Despite a backdrop of difficult trading conditions, MHK

praised resilient retailers for its

growth in 2022. The group

reported a turnover of €9.7bil lion in 2022, up

9.1% on 2021. Speaking at its annual

International General Meeting in B erlin,

newly appointed CEO Vol ker Klodwig

reported: “The drop in our partners’

turnover was much lower in the first four

months of this year than expected ” And the group stated sales from its 3,87 7 membership, from April, was 4 5% above its annual plan

Ma r ket s i z e

While the core kitchen market declined in Germany by 6%, sanitaryware, heating and air conditioning grew by 20% Volker Klodwig added: “If you neglect the special economy

that came into being in the years of the Corona pandemic and take the result from 2019 as a reference, with a view to the longterm development, we were able in the first four months of 2023 to achieve clear and disproportionately high growth of more than 46% in the kitchen market ”

According to an online survey undertaken by MHK, in Germany, over 75% of consumers buy through specialist retailers when planning a purchase or renovation of

kitchens or bathrooms In addition, MHK reported consumer wil lingness to invest, as the survey found over the next two years

20% of people intended to spend more than

€25,000, with a further 18% intending to spend between €15,000 -€25,000 Vol ker

Klodwig at tributed the sales success of MHK resilience to its retail partners, where the average value of a kitchen sale in 2022 was €17,5 70, up 16% on the previous year, as wel l as the competences of MHK

Joining retailers from across Europe, design director of the UK retail business Kitchen Consultancy Shanti Panchani attended the MHK Intenational General Meeting in Berlin It included an exhibition spanning around 7,000sqm and boasting 107 brands, which attracted 3,580 guests from across Europe. He explains it enables him to see the variety of suppliers and services, provided by the wider buying group – including Asko, Briget te, Schul ler and AEG< and discover European manufacturers who want to enter the UK market Shanti exclaims this year

“was bigger and the product offering was bet ter There was far more people both from Europe and the UK”, and he adds: “You need to at tend if you ’re going to be part of the group and understand what they can do for your business You always find a new service they are offering, every time you go, from planning software through to own-brand cabinetry ”

Having worked in the kitchen industry for the past 30 years, Shanti Panchani joined the European buying group when it launched into the UK five years ago It followed his decision to leave the In-toto retail franchise and

become an independent kitchen retailer He explained MHK allowed him to open accounts with a variety of suppliers, although he can open his own accounts with manufacturers who aren’t part of the buying group, and to feel part of a larger organisation with support from retail members. However, he also points to the financial benefit of becoming a member

early payment set tlement, and with guaranteed payment to the manufacturer, he says his retail business also benefits from the buying group’s credit limit He adds MHK also “gives you the best conversions because they also own a bank” And topping it off, because retailers are also stakeholders in the buying group, each year MHK issues a bonus for those who reach a sales threshold set by the manufacturers, plus a profit share payment based upon total retail revenue in the UK “I’ve got the equivalent of my joining fee back every year”

C a s h fl ow a n d c re d i t Shanti explains MHK enables bet ter control of cashflow in his business, as manufacturers invoice MHK directly, rather than retailers

It means retailers can have 30 day payment terms, while stil l receiving the benefit of

E n c o u ra g i n g a l l ret a i l e r s “It has exceeded my expectations”, Shanti says speaking about his becoming a member and he encourages retailers to “think differently” So which retailers would benefit most from becoming a member of MHK – a new or an established business? “I think it benefits both”, says Shanti “When you’re a newbie, you have no baggage, you come with a fresh mind While the one that knows it, has done it, owns the t-shirt, what is the advantage of not joining? And if you think it must be a con, ask one of the 75 retail members in the UK ”

D i r e c t o r o f K i t c h e n C o n s u l t a n c y : “ I t ’ s e x c e e d e d e x p e c t a t i o n s ”

Marcel Crezee

Q&A

M anaging director of MHK- UK and export director of MHK Marcel Crezee explains the buying group continues to support retail members and its plans for growth

QHow did it compare to previous events in terms of size and scale?

A : Every five years we have an International

Congress similar to this one, with guest speakers, exhibition, gala evening But this

year it was bigger…more suppliers on the fair and more members because we have a huge growth since last event

QHow is the kitchen retail business and how does the UK market compare?

A : The main difference between Europe and UK in the kitchen market, is that in Europe almost al l kitchen entrepreneurs are in a buying group and in the UK hard ly anybody! D on’t ask me why You don’t lose your independence but use the skil l of the group

QAre retail sales what you expected at the beginning of the year?

A : The biggest chal lenges are to find the right fit ters, who actual ly implement what our entrepreneurs have agreed with their customers That is why MHK also invests in its Europe Academy, where we train technicians who can help our affiliated entrepreneurs instal l their kitchens.

QHow, as a buying group, are you helping retailers meet challenges and embrace opportunities?

A : We d o a l o t fo r e n t r e p r e n e u r s , s u c h a s

3 0 - d ays p aym e n t te r m wi t h r e te n t i o n o f p aym e n t d i s c o u n t , a b i l i t y to u s e o u r CA RAT s o f t wa r e sys te m , b e i n g a b l e to o ffe r t h e r i g h t p u r c h a s i n g c o n d i t i o n s , u s i n g t h e s i z e o f M H K O f c o u r s e, U K r e t a i l e r s c a n a l s o u t i l i s e t h e k n owl e d ge a n d ex p e r i e n c e f r o m s a l e s d i r e c to r Pa u l W h e e l e r, s a l e s m a n ge r D avi d Mo r r i s a n d a c c o u n t m a n a ge r

A n t h o ny D avi s

Q

How good was it to be back to a physical event - what does that mean to MHK and its retailers?

A : It was fantastic Everybody was so pleased to be back and there were a lot of connections being made between both key players in the industry and newer retailers

A : We are happy with the sales levels, because most of our members are sel ling kitchens above €15,000 There is stil l money to invest in this target group, but the competition is of course extremely fierce

QWhat have been the biggest challenges affecting kitchen retail sales?

Q What can we expect of MHK going forwards, particularly in the UK?

A : We stil l growing step -by-step We are not interested in quantity, but we prefer quality of retail members We don’t want to be the biggest, but we want to be the best

“We’re the biggest kitchen showroom in The Cotswolds”

With a playful nod to Star Wars, Hoth Kitchens has opened a planetary-sized Caple Studio in Gloucestershire. Owner Rich Stone explains its customer experience is out of this world

Adding to its Caple Studio in Royal Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire, owner of Hoth Kitchens Rich Stone has just opened a planetary-sized showroom in nearby Lechlade, Gloucestershire. Measuring 7,500sqft, it hosts 12 displays, and Rich says: “We’re by far the biggest kitchen showroom in The Cotswolds. It allows us to show a good variety to customers, with all the displays carefully chosen to show how quirky we can be and how we can bring a room to life.”

Even the name of the business is unusual, as Rich Stone comments: “Professionally and officially, it stands for Heart Of The Home.” However, for those familiar with Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back film, featuring

the ice planet Hoth, he confesses there is a connection. “Unofficially, I’m a massive Star Wars fan - even dotted around the showroom is Star Warsmemorabilia, which includes original Star Wars action figures, through to a life-sized Han Solo.”

Second showroom

It’s interesting to find out, then, that a sequel wasn’t part of his original business plan. “I didn’t set out to open two showrooms. However, the Royal Wootton Bassett showroom was performing really successfully”, says Rich. He adds: ““Caple were so impressed with my brand, they suggested I open another showroom. They have been supportive of my vision and

invested into the furniture and appliance displays.” Opening a second showroom could even be considered quite a daring move, particularly when he states starting the business was “probably the bravest thing I’ve ever done”, having opened his first showroom two years’ ago, just after lockdown.

Choosing Caple

Rich says the benefit of being a Caple Studio is not only dealing with one company, but that it is also located nearby. “Caple are based in Bristol, which is great if you need any replacements during the fit.” He also points out the advantages of the services it offers: “Caple supplies direct to the customer’s house, so I don’t need a storage facility.” With

a variety of furniture, sinks, taps and appliances from Caple, Rich says he’s not limited in his offer to suit the needs of customers, but adds if a consumer has bought another appliance brand, he will fit them He believes it offers a higher level of customer service “It’s about asking ‘is there a different way and is that a better way?”, Rich explains

S h owro o m l o c a t i o n Having decided to open a second showroom, Rich explains his original intention was to look for a location west of Bristol However, he continues: “My girlfriend has a boat moored around the corner and when we were driving through Lechlade to reach it, we drove past this lovely showroom – al l glass fronted – and ready to go I thought that it was in a perfect location ” Researching the locality and looking at the position of competitors, Rich discovered the nearest kitchen showroom was in Cirencester, around 15 miles away “I’m a massive believer in fate, and driving past that day it was obviously meant to be” , says Rich

However, opening the second showroom wasn’t al l plain sailing, as Rich reveals it has taken nearly a year to reach its current state: “It had a lot of leaks and took a long time to get the building works right So, the investment into the building has been a lot” , He adds: “We’ve put air con in to improve the facilities and we’re even looking at creating an outdoor presentation area, as wel l as using Virtual Reality headsets, to show designs to the customers ”

And what is he particularly pleased about his new showroom? “The reaction of customers when they come in and their feedback is exactly what I dreamed of at the outset They say it’s different to every other showroom I wanted to show people you don’t have to go down the route of standard colours or designs We are trying to do things a little bit differently to everyone else and offer customers experience on a different level ”

C u sto m e r b u yi n g j o u r n ey

It is this focus on customer experience which is a key differentiator of the Hoth Kitchens

1 CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Showing an array of handles, worktops and doors allows consumers to mix and match, making it an experiential process

2 HOTH KITCHENS OWNER

Rich Stone has 23 years of experience in the kitchen industry and owns two studios

3 LARGE SHOWROOM

Measuring 7,500sqft, the glass-fronted showroom provides space for 12 large kitchen displays

brand Having started out working for multinational kitchens, with the likes of Moben and Magnet, before working in a field sales role in Australia, Rich says it was always his ambition to open his own showroom Although appreciative of his experiences working for national kitchen retailers, “after al l that is how I got to where I am now” , he continues “but in the back of my mind I always thought there is a bet ter way”

So, for his business, he has opted for an informal, relaxed style Rich explains: “I really dislike formality I want it to be a really fun process from the outset. The design and sales process should be all about the customer and they should have an exciting journey We have a ‘mixing desk’ area where consumers can mix and match the doors, the worktops, the handles It’s really creative; it’s fun No one is sat behind a desk in a suit It’s a journey ” And he continues: “It means people buy from us for the right reasons – because they want our designs and they want the service that comes with it The customer feedback has been immense ”

G rowi n g b u s i n e s s

Unsurprisingly, then, Rich states both showrooms are reporting good business, adding: “The start of the year was a lit tle bit slow, and other retailers in the industry reported that as wel l, but footfal l is great and probably a lit tle bit busier than we expected ” In fact, he sold kitchens from the Lechlade showroom before it even official ly opened B a s e d i n a n a ff l u e n t a re a , R i c h s ays h e h a s a l re a dy n o t i c e d t h e ave r a ge s a l e s o rd e r i s h i g h e r o u t o f t h e n ew s t u d i o “ Roya l

Wootton Bassett has an average order value of around £24,000, whereas Lechlade is around £30,000. But we will sell kitchens anywhere from £15,000 up to £70,000.”

Rich says he doesn’t want to place an expectation on the new showroom, particularly given the current climate, adding: “You can never know what’s around the corner”, but has social media marketing plans and magazine case studies at the ready, should the market falter. But he isn’t going to rely on large sales discounts to attract new customers, and in fact says he would rid the kitchen industry of them, if he could: “Because, for me, the customer doesn’t believe they are genuine anyway. I always say to customers we’ll give you good value over a long period of time.”

In fact, Rich explains Hoth Kitchens even encourages consumers to shop around before coming back and placing an order. But isn’t that dangerous? “We express how much we’d love the customer’s business, but if the customer is buying from us for the wrong reasons that will either result in a cancellation or a bad review at the end of it. If the customer is making an informed decision to buy from us, they will be happy at the outset to part with their hard-earned money”, says

focus on the customer. But with its fresh approach to retailing, has been able to level up in terms of service for the independent sector.

Rich. And he states happily: “We’ve never had a cancellation. I’m really proud of that and hopefully it shows we do look after people.”

4. DESIGN JOURNEY

Having resolved water leaks and added air conditioning, the showroom took 12 months to complete before opening

5. DISPLAY VARIETY

The showroom has been designed to encourage bravery in consumer choice

The directors of Kudos explain how its acquisition by SanSwiss will support its investment in British manufacturing

When British bathroom manufacturers are bought by larger, global players, it can often signal the end of production in the country. But that’s not the case for Cumbrian-based Kudos Showers Although it has recently been acquired by shower surround manufacturer SanSwiss

Group, Kudos continues to invest into its UK production Most recently it has renewed the lease of its Sand bach warehouse and showroom for the next 10 years

Sales and marketing director Nick

Gravil le says its new owner has a long-term view of the business Part of the Ronal group, SanSwiss has six business units, including two production plants, and is present in over 15 countries He points out: “The Ronal

Group sees the UK market as a big opportunity We are experts in what we do, here, and we have a good, core business ”

Ac q u i s i t i o n d e c i s i o n

Established by Bruce Ledwith in 1999, who took a step back from the business, Kudos has a senior management team led by managing director Mark Hill Explaining why the

enclosure and

company looked to an acquisition now, he comments: “We just felt the time was right for the senior management team and the time was right for the business. But it was very important that we found the right company. We were never going to choose private equity ” Using Sentio (a corporate finance company) to seek a buyer, Hill admits, “It was strange when we saw the initial interest from Ronal because when you research it, we found it was an alloy wheel company Then we saw it owned SansSwiss for the past 25 years and its target is to really grow that area of the business through acquisition and organic growth ”

In fact, Hill says the family-owned SanSwiss company, which manufactures framed, unframed and partially framed enclosures, in standard or custom sizes, shares the same values as Kudos These he points out as product design, quality and service Mark Hill adds: “The acquisition gives security that Kudos will continue grow ”

nd 60,000sqft finished goods warehouse in Sand bach, Cheshire This has created space for additional capacity at its Cumbrian factory. Head of operations Kei Hitchcox comments: “When I joined the business a decade ago, the flat pack line was 15 people strong It used to produce 800 units a week With our semi-automatic fast lines, we can produce up to 3000 units a week with only six people Every 30 seconds we can pack a product ” He c o n t i n u e s : “ W h e n t h e b u s i n e s s wa s st a r te d t h e s i te m e a s u re d 5 ,8 1 3 s q ft T h e e n t i re s i te i s n ow 75 ,0 0 0 s q ft a n d 6 0,0 0 0 s q ft i n S a n d b a c h , c u r re n t ly ” He m o o t s t h e c o m p a ny p l a n s fo r fu r t h e r g row t h , wh i c h i s c l a r i fi e d by Ma rk Hi l l : “ We ’ re l o o ki n g to ex p a n d t h at by a n o t h e r 1 9,0 0 0 s q ft o f wa re h o u s i n g We a re j u st fi n a l i s i n g b u i l d d et a i l s o n t h at We h ave i nve ste d h e avi ly, i n o u r m a n u fa ct u r i n g fa c i l i t y, wh i c h g ive s u s a c a p a c i t y to g row a n d e a s i ly d o u b l e t h e b u s i n e s s B u t i f yo u s e l l m o re, yo u n e e d m o re sto c k a n d t h at ’ s why we ’ re i nve st i n g i n t h e wa re h o u s e ex te n s i o n at S a n d b a c h ”

And the company is also investing in its stone resin shower tray capacity, having won

“We want to be the biggest shower

tray manufacturer in the UK”

more tenders Mark Hil l explains: “O ver the last three or four years we’ve probably grown

25% There’s two reasons for that – we have the trays and the service There’s been a lot of uncertainty over supply in the market, so we have taken a lot of market share and it’s an area we continue to grow We’re going to make further investments in the shower tray facility. ” Kie Hitchcox expands: “We wil l be tripling our tray manufacturing by the end of the year.”

U K sto c k h o l d i n g Experiencing double digit growth, it’s perhaps no surprise Kudos has continued to invest Kie Hitchcox says the company holds 3,500 SKUs, including seals manufactured at a facility in South Africa It has stock holding of three months and spare parts for its enclosures for 10 years, which are available from a third party storage and dispatch Mark Hil l adds: “At Sand bach we try and hold around eight to 10 weeks of finished good stocks and our distributors hold similar mass It’s very important for us as a business to have plenty of stock ” With such a focus on stock availability Kudos has also amended its hybrid model of direct and distributor sales to improve logistics The shower enclosure manufacturer now sel ls solely through distribution partners including Barwicks, Claygate, D el l, Formula Bathrooms and, MD Ireland

Pre m i u m p ro d u ct s

Yet Kudos hasn’t just focused on growing the volume of product sales, but also looked to broaden the choice for bathroom retailers too It has bolstered its existing Pinnacle 8 with level access enclosures, and added a Red

D ot award-winning inward/outward opening door to its Ultimate 10 range But it hasn’t stopped there, as the company also plans to introduce a Pinnacle level access quad and auxiliary products to its Ultimate range, such as inwal l channels In fact, the company’s product launches have been so prolific Nick

Gravil le says the most frequent comment from retailers is “I didn’t know you did that?”

B oth the Pinnacle 8 and Ulitimate enclosures are part of its Premium col lection which is only available to displaying retailers Mark Hil l continues: “We wanted to support bricks and mortar retailers, so to be a Premium Col lection retailer, part of the trading criteria is they don’t sel l online and it’s gone down real ly wel l, as you would expect ” And Kudos also prides itself on its after- care service, not only with its spare

\3

1 BRITISH MANUFACTURER

Cumbrian-based Kudos was established in 1999 and manufactures shower surrounds and trays

2 SANDBACH SHOWROOM

Housing its finished stock in a central location, Kudos opened a warehouse and trade showroom in Sandbach, Cheshire

3 DIRECTOR TEAM

Head of operations Kei Hitchocox, managing director Mark Hill and sales and marketing director Nick Graville

4 ULTIMATE ENCLOUSRE

\4

parts but also a 10 -strong team of retail support managers who work alongside retailers to assist them with display instal lation, product training and technical help if required

sales, by adding an expanded offer for the merchant and contract sector It wil l see the company bring price conscious models from SanSwiss into the UK branded as Kudos Nick Gravil le gives an overview: “ There are 44 SKUs in the range, which offers 1,526 combinations” , while Mark Hil l adds: “I think it’s an important message that the product

we’re introducing is the same high end, product that you would expect from Kudos.”

Speaking about why the company is now targeting the contract sector, Mark Hill continues: “We are quite dominant in the retail market and are doing a lot around new product development, which will grow that business and take further market share The acquisition now gives us the ability to more very, quickly into merchant and developer markets ” Kudos plans to support this with a dedicated sales team featuring national accounts support, area support and contract specialists However, Kudos doesn’t believe it wil l just be one -way traffic, as Mark Hil l adds: “There’s products we’ve got, that SanSwiss may be interested in sel ling into Europe ” Certainly, expanding into the merchant and contract sector wil l provide volume growth, and move Kudos closer to its ultimate goal Mark Hil l clearly states: “We want to be the largest shower enclosure and tray business in the UK ” In value terms the company believes it is currently the fourth largest in the UK, but

wil l be able to claim the number one slot within the next five years.

S u st a i n a b i l i t y d r ive

Of course, as with the entire bathroom industry sustainability is a focus for the company going forwards, explains Kie Hitchcox Kudos has already achieved IS O 9001 and now has an eye on IS O 14001 It has invested in a packaging machine which reduces cardboard use by 30% and, by creating bespoke packaging, also minimises polystyrene padding by 65% Now the company is looking to reduce single use plastics, as Kie Hitchcox says: “At the moment, the majority of our product is packaged in a plastic bag We are going to move to banding all of our products with a bespoke machine from Japan We currently use around 42 tonnes of plastic a year and this will reduce to less than one tonne a year ” The banding machine will also help the company reduce its overall energy consumption using 0 3 kilowatts, rather than 60 kilowatts per hour

5 CONNECT2

Connect2 trays feature an offset dual waste outlet to avoid standard joist spans

6 PINNACLE ENCLOSURE

Adding to its Pinnacle8 enclosures are sliding door models designed without the need for a bottom rail, providing a level access

7 TRAYS INVESTMENT

Forming part of the £3 5m investment, over the past three years, Kudos installed a second shower tray line and plans to triple capacity

O p t i m i st i c o u t l o o k

While the overal l bathroom market may have slowed year- on-year, fol lowing the pandemic,

Kudos is buoyant about sales, not only in contract but also through its retail channel Nick Gravil le says this quieter time has given retailers the opportunity to review their business and showroom, which they may not have been able to do for the past three years He adds: “I think people feel it is slower than it real ly is because they have forgot ten what it used to be like Supply and fit retailers are stil l booked up months in advance So I think there’s a lot of positivity out there ” And Mark Hil l is equal ly optimistic about the future, despite the chal lenging economy, stating the company is readying itself for sales growth next year “We’re stil l busy We’re stil l doing real ly wel l ”

For more information visit www rdr link/KAS017

Turning up the temperature in retail

Having outgrown its premises in Rochester, Kent, Carisa Radiators has moved north to Manchester, into premises which are three times larger than its previous site The location provides more space for warehousing, which has al lowed for greater stockholding of over 5,000 products plus a showroom It al l forms part of the company’s strategy to further tap into the market for KBB retail showrooms, with the launch of its luxury range

Building a brand

Founded 40 years ago in Turkey, the familyowned business (now in its second generation) started life manufacturing steel vessels that would withstand pressure, like a gas bot tle, before moving into residential radiators “When the now ubiquitous chromed steel ladder rails came to the fore, the company was among the first to manufacture that kind of product” , explains general manager of Carisa UK Barry Custy

Exclusively manufacturing for UK OEM, at the beginning, Custy continues: “D ue to a commercial shift in the market and pressure from Chinese imports, the best way we could assure our business in the UK was to be our own distributor and create our own brand Carisa was born, eight years ago, as a vehicle to manage the company’s own destiny and that is when I was brought on board as a sales agent before taking charge of the UK business ”

Targeting retail showrooms

The majority of its heritage business is stil l through internet retailers So how is the company planning to satisfy bricks and mortar retailers targeting the mid to top - end?

Interestingly, and somewhat at odds with

online retail, the company already lays claim to manufacturing the world’s most expensive radiator at £16,000+VAT “We’ve not found one more expensive” , says Barry Custy But have they sold any? “We have sold six With two sold to homes in New York, two have

been sold to the Midd le East, and there’s two in London. ” Tel lingly, he adds “But we didn’t sel l them online” , which perhaps explains why Carisa Radiators has further introduced a 26 -strong range of luxury radiators (although not carrying the same pricetag,) targeted specifical ly for high- end retail showrooms

With the internet open to online discounting, how can Carisa assure retailers providing valuable display space that they’re not entering a price battleground? Barry Custy is not oblivious to these concerns and explains:

“We know that the barrier to us getting bigger in the showroom market previously has been because we’re strong online But we are now offering a portfolio for retail showrooms with products providing exclusive margins, so pureplay retailers can compete and sell with confidence in their showroom In reality, the luxury products are more in line with showrooms We want to sell to mid to highend showrooms, that understand the product and want to sell the products ”

General manager of Carisa Radiators Barry Custy talks about the company’s focus on independent KBB retail showrooms, with the launch of its new luxur y range.

1 MANAGING DIRECTOR

Barry Custy has vast experience of the radiator market and leads the Carisa business in the UK

2 ADAGIO

According to Carisa, Adagio is the world’s most expensive radiator, priced at £16,000+VAT

3 ALVEOLE

Made from stainless steel, Alveole measures 500mm wide and is available in three heights

4 MANCHESTER-BASED HQ

Carisa Radiators has moved north to Manchester, into premises which are three times larger than its previous site in Rochester, Kent

Storytelling improves sales

As part of this, he believes there is a greater need for storytelling, to help educate clients particularly with a view to the growing sustainability agenda Custy believes KBB retailers are well-positioned with their expertise to tap into the market for sustainable heating “That story is really hard to sell online”, says Custy With the bulk of its products made from aluminium, he says customers need to know they use up to 80% less water but provide up to 26% greater heat output, hence reducing energy bills, to counter price differentials from steel: “People may say it’s a bit more expensive but, actually, you can have a smaller model and get the same heat output as a steel radiator If you’re in a showroom and a customer is going to spend £20,000 on the bathroom, that’s a nice little story ” He explains the luxury models are also fully supported by a brochure, customised point of sale and photography and video assets for retailers to use on their social media

Design innovation

A

c h a p te r by d eve l o p i n g a ra n ge d e d i c ate d fo r t h e K B B ret a i l m a rket “ G o i n g fo r wa rd , a s o u r b u s i n e s s d eve l o p s , we wi l l d e s i g n p ro d u ct s s p e c i fi c a l ly fo r ret a i l . ” In fa ct , C u st y re p o r t s d e s i g n i n n ovat i o n a s o n e o f t h e U S Ps o f t h e c o m p a ny

Carisa introduced Smart Electric radiators at ISH 2023 They included D ry Smart Electric with no boiler or heating connections and Hybrid Smart Electric Radiators which are plumbed into the central heating system, but unlike traditional dual fuel systems, rather than heating the volume of water inside use ceramic plate technology and heat a hidden radiator plate when the central heating is switched off And al l these can be operated by apps and voice control

Meeting customisation

Custy also points to the company’s colour offering, including PVD finishes, and ability to bespoke radiator models, tailoring height, width and hue of each model He exclaims around 17% of the company’s sales are for radiators which are non-standard and boast a lead time of 4- 6 weeks “I think that wil l grow

with this retail approach Everybody likes to say this is our radiator and no - one else has got one that size or that colour. People do like to be able to do that. Specifiers also might have a specific space and require specific heat output So, we’l l design products that wil l fit and operate as they want them ” And Custy continues stating the luxury radiators can also offer add- on sales for KBB retailers, as they can expand sales beyond the kitchen and bathroom and throughout the home

C e r t a i n ly, C a r i s a Ra d i ato r s h a s a m b i t i o u s p l a n s fo r g row t h fo r i t s U K b u s i n e s s , fo re c a st i n g 3 0 % u p t u r n i n 2 02 3 , a n d i t a i m s to g row to a n et wo rk o f 10 0 ret a i l s h owro o m s t h i s ye a r B a r r y C u st y c o n c l u d e s : “ We ’ ve go t m a s s ive g row t h p l a n s fo r t h e b u s i n e s s at t h e m i n u te, a n d i f we wa n t to p e r fo r m i n t h i s s e cto r we ’ re go i n g to n e e d at l e a st 10 0 s h owro o m s to get t h e g row t h to d o i t If we c a n g row ret a i l i n t h e s a m e way t h at we g rew o n l i n e, o r i g i n a l ly, t h e n I ’d b e d e l i gh te d wi t h t h at ”

Find out more about its products at www rdr link/KAS018

Pure & Simple

We look at how filtered water taps can save the planet, please the palate and enhance wellbeing, all while reducing long-term household spend

There is no one reason why a consumer chooses to buy a filtered water tap, instead and happily for kitchen designers there are many From concerns about protecting the environment, to enhanced wel l being through hydration, and even costcut ting (as bot tled water prices bite in the current climate,) filtered water taps provide a solution for a wide variety of clients A move towards a home - centred lifestyle has accelerated the focus on water supply, which industry experts say has benefit ted filtered water tap sales Managing director of Q uooker, Stephen Johnson points out:

“There has been a significant shift in interest for and purchase of filters for our taps Whilst some consumers stil l purchase filters separately, our CUBE accessory includes filtered water as standard alongside the sparkling and chil led modes, sales of filters have dramatical ly increased over the past couple of years O n average, 70% of al l our sales in the UK & Ireland now include some sort of filtration, be it as a standalone filter or as part of our CUBE accessory ”

Pleasing the palate

But why choose filtered water at all, when the source is on tap and - despite media headlines about water companies polluting the sea and rivers - is healthy to drink? It’s simply a matter of taste According to consumer research by filter system supplier Tapp Water, half of respondents (49%) use a filter or drink bottled water, with the most common complaint about tap water being taste (32%) Sales and marketing director of Franke UK Jo Sargent comments: “While UK legislation ensures drinking water is safe and drinkable, the taste and make-up of it does vary across the UK and having a kitchen filter tap gives the user reassurance about the purity of the water they are drinking every time ”

Interestingly, there is a tendency to associate filtered water with cold water drinks, but it also plays a part in enhancing hot beverages too Product manager of Abode Dan Biddle points out: “An interest in artisan teas and gourmet coffee grounds has placed new importance on making the perfect cuppa at home using the latest hot water tap technology, [such as 3-in-1 or 4-in-1 taps] which is filtered for improved taste ”

The Cube accessory adds filtered alongside chilled sparkling water to Quooker taps Read more details at www.rdr.link/KAS019

2. FRANKE

The Vital Capsule filter has ‘above the worktop’ design for ease of installation Watch the video at www.rdr.link/KAS020

Health and hydration

Certainly, there is a growing appetite for drinking water, as people are recognising the health benefits of being hydrated Drinking water not only improves energy and cognition levels but also sleep And along with an increasing number of people choosing not to drink alcohol, around a fifth of UK adults in 2017 according to the Office of National Statistics, and possible concerns by the World Heath Organisation about aspartame, water may become the ultimate go -to health drink Dan Biddle of Abode agrees: “Going alcohol free or being sober curious is on the rise as a lifestyle trend, so refreshing and pleasantly tasting water on tap is set to become increasingly important for more and more consumers ” It is also reflected by the growth of sales of bottled water

Banning the bottle

4. GROHE

GROHE Blue Home provides filtered and chilled water and choice of sparkling Discover more at www.rdr.link/KAS022

D espite a growing move towards reducing single -use plastic bot tles on the move, with water bot tles a common companion, home seems to be slightly different D an Bidd le of Abode comments: “We can see that overal l UK shoppers are drinking more and more bot tled water and according to Statista this is expected to hit 49 2 litres per person per year in 2023, up from 45 6 litres in 2020 ” He continues: “In fact, Statisa research suggests that by 2027, 39% of bot tled water wil l be consumed in bars and restaurants, which indicates that 61% wil l be enjoyed at home –suggesting there is a significant market for kitchen retailers to contemplate when it comes to filtered water taps.”

And as the mortgage crisis and inflation continues to bite, filter taps can provide costsaving for bottled water consumers Dave Mayer, MD of Reginox UK, explains: “With a filtered tap, consumers have an endless supply of fresh, filtered water at their fingertips, resulting in long-term cost savings ” And Leader of product management at LIXIL EMENA and Grohe UK Ronke Ugbaja puts some meat on the bones: “By calculating the cost of filtered water compared to leading bottle water brands, retailers can demonstrate that families can save up to 60% on drinking water costs over time ”

Trade-up taps

So the market for filtered water taps remain strong, enabling a trade up from standard mixers However, Jo Sargent of Franke UK reminds kitchen designers and retailers “not al l filtered water taps are created equal” She explains: “

he quality of the cartridge

1. QUOOKER

3. CAPLE WRAS -approved, the FOSSO 4in1 Filtered Steaming Hot Water Tap comes in a choice of finishes Download information at www.rdr.link/KAS021

The Atlas Aquifier, offers filtered water as well as standard hot and cold supplies. View product information at www.rdr.link/KAS023

6. REGINOX

Aquadzi provides standard hot and cold water, filtered water and boiling water. Download a brochure at www.rdr.link/KAS024

technology can vary greatly, between those that offer intelligent filtering by removing bacteria, sediment and viruses, while leaving all the healthy minerals in place, as opposed to those that simply strip or treat the water.”

Whatever the price point and perfect model for the consumer, from filtered water alone through to chilled and sparkling, accomplished designers will ensure they stay on top of the market for filtered water taps.

5 ABODE

1. V-ZUG

Premium appliance manufacturer V-ZUG has introduced the Wine Cooler V4000 45, its most compact model. Part of the Excellence series, it boasts a 17-bottle capacity and comes complete with a tilting lower shelf for presentation. The wine cooler has a handleless door with TouchOpen technology and a soft close function. Read all the technical details at www.rdr.link/KAS025

JUST OUT

2. BUSHBOARD

Bushboard has re-imagined its Omega collection of laminate kitchen worktops, which span wood, marble and stone finishes, with the choice of square edge or slight postformed edge. The 25-strong collection also features four premium finishes including the metallic-emulating Brushed Bronze and three anti-fingerprint Touch surfaces, where micro-scratches are reported to be repairable. View more information at www.rdr.link/KAS026

3. FRANKE

Sink, tap and appliance brand Franke Home Solutions has launched Maris ovens and hobs aimed at the mid-market segment. The Maris range includes two 600mm, 71-litre ovens in pyrolytic and hydrolytic options, a compact combi-oven, two induction hobs and two gas hobs. Hero of the launch is the Maris Pyrolytic Oven (shown) which features electronic controls, 11 cooking functions, pyrolytic cleaning and an A+ energy rating. Read more about the Maris range at www.rdr.link/KAS027

5. ABODE

Kitchen and bathroom brassware and sink supplier Abode has introduced its Althia taps in a range of contemporary colours. Available in four paint hues, Althia Colours are designed to capture the latest interior trends, with a take on warm neutrals and earth tones. Althia Colours are exclusively available for single lever mixer taps and extend finishes of the collection from six to 10 options. Read more at www.rdr.link/KAS029

4. STOVES

British appliance brand Stoves has announced the launch of its Deluxe range cooker collection with zoneless induction – which it claims to be a world’s first for range cooking. It provides a full-surface cooking area, with pan tracking and pre-programmed settings for melting, simmering, and keeping food warm, alongside ovens with digital thermostats. The zoneless induction is offered on Richmond Deluxe, Sterling Deluxe and Precision Deluxe range cookers. Read more at www.rdr.link/KAS028

6. NEFF

Kitchen appliance brand Neff has refreshed its Collection ovens, including the N90 and N70 with touch screen and Twist Pad Flex control. All 15 ovens in the Neff Collection are available in Flex Design, with a choice of trims and handles in four finishes: Brushed Bronze, Anthracite Grey, Metallic Silver and Deep Black. The four trims come in a choice of seven different lengths, to match a variety of oven combinations. View all the oven features at www.rdr.link/KAS030

NOVUS

Director of retail sales at Omega PLC James Bishton explains why now is the right time to launch its Novus brand of handleless kitchen furniture

QWhy did you decide to launch the Novus brand and where did the name come from?

A: Latin for ‘new’ Novus is a dedicated brand of handleless kitchens and sits alongside English Rose, Mackintosh, Sheraton and Chippendale. Omega has both a traditional and modern Shaker offer with an element of contemporary kitchens, and now we’ve bolstered that with the Novus brand. We want to attract the retail partners who specialise in contemporary-style kitchens, highly predominant in the Southeast, but also across the UK.

QWhere are you positioning the brand in terms of price bracket?

A: It’s targeted at the core independent retail specialist market in the UK, which covers quite a breadth on the price ladder. We are able to meet that spread with our Novus products from painted to cut and edge MFC doors and everything in between. It really fills the gap in our proposition to offer a true handleless kitchen. It’s the same specification as the rest of our kitchens, glued and dowelled true rigid furniture. At one end of the price scale, retailers can win volume contract business on price through our MFC

collection, while at the other is smooth painted doors, with super matt finishes. We’ll be talking to existing customers where they see the opportunity for sales and new customers where we have got geographical gaps in our network. We’ve been known as a solid operational business for many years, with good service levels and capability. But from a trends perspective, this now completes our offer and makes a very compelling, comprehensive range.

QWhat is the size and scale of the Novus range?

A: It’s vast because it’s made to order. We’ve got 22 painted colours, and non-painted doors in various colours, styles and ranges, which we hold in stock in our new warehouse. There are 100% recycled doors, super matt in a choice of six colours and all our MFC doors in plain and woodgrain finishes. In phase two, we’re

looking to add a made-to-measure custom panel as our research found it was something our customers would like. It will be introduced towards the back end of 2023.

QWhat are the USPs of Novus and buying from Omega?

A: We have stability of business and reliability of service. We also feel there is an opportunity with our speed of supply. So the lead time is 2-3 weeks for Novus non-painted kitchens and 3-4 weeks for painted. Retailers can also make amendments to their order up to 10 days prior to delivery. So, from a retailer’s point of view, we can provide operational advantages and deliver the kitchen when they need it. We can enhance

QWhy have you decided to launch the Novus brand now?

A: We are launching it now because we have invested in the plant and built the capability in the factory. We are not saying this is a new concept to the market, but it’s new to Omega. We know there’s a growing need for kitchens of this style and our retailers want them delivered right first time, complete, with a swift, efficient service.

QWhat is your ambition for the Novus range?

A: We’re building a platform for 2024. It’s about taking the business forward. We reached £60million turnover last year and we want to continue growing beyond that. We’ve always had the operational strength but now we’ve got highly aspirational products to significantly grow Omega business, and we are continuing to develop. There’s no reason why Novus can’t become a very strong part of the mix and, in time, provide up to a third of the sales potential.

QHow do you see the kitchen market developing?

A: Whether the market grows or not, it doesn’t mean you can’t increase your own market share. So, our current focus is to develop products that appeal to independent kitchen specialists. There’s obviously cost of living impacting the market at the moment, and everyone is feeling the pinch in mortgages, food bills etc. It’s just about when pent-up demand potential can be released, then we’ll be in a position to capitalise on that with our ever-growing offer.

Discover more about the Novas brand at www.rdr.link/KAS031

1. INDUSTRIAL AESTHETIC Novus is shown in Super Matt Jet with Natural Oak but is available in 22 colours across 25 modern slabs and six Shaker styles

2.JAMES BISHTON Director of retail sales at Omega Plc

3. LAYERING TONES Designers can layer tones, such as Spitfire Blue and Graphite, with Novus doors guaranteed for 15 years and its cabinets and drawers boasting a 20-year warranty

4. MODERN SHAKER

The five-piece Monarch Shaker is shown in Painted Sea Mist and comes with a choice of three cabinet colours and Grass V8 drawers.

\1

Immersion therapy

It’s difficult to contemplate a luxury bathroom without the inclusion of a bathtub. It’s not simply about the aesthetics but the ability to provide bathing rituals of relaxation and rejuvenation. But what truly constitutes a luxury bath? Is it simply the price tag? Is it a euphemism for a freestanding tub? Or is a luxury bath solely defined by the experience it offers a bather? Certainly, bathroom designers need to embrace luxury baths as the 2023 UK Houzz & Home Study reports the search term ‘luxury bathrooms’ has grown by 109% and ‘spa bathroom’ by 61%.

Freestanding first

Few designers would argue the freestanding tub has historically been the go-to to for a luxury spa-like bathroom. Managing director of BC Design Darren Allison states: “There are some great examples within bathroom design of built-in baths delivering on the style stakes, especially when they have been tiled, but that

would highlight that it is often the tiles that are adding the luxury element. To be truly luxurious, a freestanding bath is what delivers.” It would seem to be supported by his company sales, which report 15% year-on-year growth.

In fact, such is the continued popularity of freestanding models, Bette has recently introduced the BetteSuno bath, created by Barber Osgerby, and Victoria + Albert has introduced the Lussari bath in a freestanding model. However, and interestingly, the Lussari bath also includes a corner and backto-wall bath and the Voss bath from Acquabella is also a back-to-wall model with a freestanding look. So perhaps the freestanding bath, although still significant, is no longer the sole choice when creating a luxury bathroom.

Differing views

“Luxury doesn’t have to mean a freestanding model, although there is something inherently generous and indulgent about a freestanding

bath as a bathroom centrepiece”, explains brand manager of House of Rohl Emma Joyce. She adds: “The best luxury baths are design statements, beautifully sculpted yet supremely comfortable for a long soak. Comfort is subjective, and different baths suit different people.”

Her views are echoed by marketing manager of Cabuchon Bathforms Jordan Petts who agrees people have differing views of what constitutes a luxury bath and indeed bathroom space: “In our experience, consumers are moving away from the traditional idea of ‘luxury’ being a freestanding bath placed in the middle of the room as a centrepiece. We recognise that different people have different views of what luxury means and, for a lot of them, it means having a bath that suits their own particular lifestyle and needs. For many –perhaps the majority of buyers – the bath will often be a component of a broader, luxurious bathroom experience.”

It could mean the addition of

We take a look at luxury baths, discover it’s not all about freestanding tubs, and why sales will remain buoyant despite a tightening market

Created by British design duo Barber Osgerby, the BetteSuno collection includes basins and freestanding bath View all the information at www.rdr.link/KAS032

2 VICTORIA+ALBERT

Lussain baths come in freestanding, back-to-wall and corner models View at www.rdr.link/KAS033

hydrotherapy through water jets or music through concealed speakers in the tub, or even colour “With our wide range of colourcordinated options, a soft grey or warm beige bathtub that matches the washbowl and shower tray, gives the feeling of a luxurious bathroom in a designer five -star hotel” , states head of Kaldewei Sales UK Adam Teal

Sunken revival

Shaping the bathroom experience has been a recent revival in 1970s interior design and could be the next big thing for luxury bathrooms It is supported by the 2023 UK Houzz & Home Study which has revealed online searches for ‘sunken bath’ have more than doubled at 117% growth Jordan Pet ts of Cabuchon Bathforms says this trend is reflected in Cabuchon Bathforms’ sales figures: “We do sel l the classic ‘centrepiece’ freestanding baths, but the great majority of our sales [more than 90%] are now soaking tubs That’s because they offer a luxurious experience that suits more people’s homes and lifestyles ”

3. ROPER RHODES

Contemporary–style Note baths come in back-to-wall, cormer and fitted options www.rdr.link/KAS034

4 ACQUABELLA

Part of the Aquawhite family, Voss is a semifreestanding bath with one side set against the wall, and is suitable for smaller spaces View all the technical information at www.rdr.link/KAS035

Compact bathing

B u t wi t h a g rowi n g l e g i s l at ive d e m a n d o n wate r e ffi c i e n c y, a n d t yp i c a l ly s m a l l Br i t i s h b at h ro o m s , wh at d o e s t h at m e a n fo r t h e fu t u re o f t h e l u x u r y b at h – s o a ki n g, f re e st a n d i n g – o r o t h e r wi s e ? Jo rd a n Pet t s st ate s : “ D e e p s o a ki n g t u b s ge n e ra l ly h ave a s m a l l e r fo o tp r i n t t h a n c o nve n t i o n a l b at h s a n d u s e c o n s i d e ra b ly l e s s wate r S u b st i t u t i n g d e p t h fo r l e n g t h , t h ey p e r m i t a l u x u r y b at h i n g ex p e r i e n c e eve n wh e n s p a c e i s at a p re m i u m ”

T h e re a re a l s o l u x u r y t u b s ava i l a b l e fo r s m a l l e r fo o tp r i n t s , f ro m st yl i s h b a c k- to -wa l l b at h s b a s e d o n t h e l o o k o f f re e st a n d i n g m o d e l s , t h ro u gh to s m a l l e r s c a l e ve r s i o n s

Head of product development at Roper Rhodes Rob Shean comments: “Whether by design or necessity, homes are smal ler than ever before, and consumers, designers and retailers are learning to rethink at titudes to modest spaces Available in both traditional and contemporary styles, our 1500 freestanding baths were designed to meet this growing demand - offering luxury with a

more compact footprint ” He continues: “The same can be said for less conventional and more versatile baths, such as back-to -wal l and corner bath options, that give the appearance of a freestanding tub while maximising on available space.”

Buoyant market

While the market may have toughened fol lowing the pandemic, with cost- of-living crisis in ful l affect, manufacturers point out a luxury bath is an investment and adds value to a property D arren Al lison states: “We know there is a mortgage and interest rate crisis happening right now and so, for those locking into a lower interest rate, we’l l see these individuals look to renovate rather than move. Adding in a freestanding bath has been shown to increase saleability and value of a home and so we expect more people to invest in one when it comes to bathroom renovations ” So take a look at the market for baths, particularly those with luxury appeal, as they could be highly profitable for future bathroom projects

1. BETTE

JUST OUT

2. AMBIANCE BAIN

Bathroom furniture manufacture Ambiance Bain has recently unveiled Sumiko. There are seven colours in the range which can be matched to the countertop basin and shower space. In addition, designers can choose the furniture handles in finishes of Chrome, Matt Black or Matt Gold. View the entire collection at www.rdr.link/KAS037

1. VILLEROY & BOCH

Expanding its bathroom portfolio, Villeroy & Boch has introduced its own range of tap fittings. German designed, there are 12 collections spanning entry Newo through to the premium-priced Mettlach fitting (pictured), named after the town where Villeroy & Boch is headquartered. Villeroy & Boch bathroom taps are complemented by universal and combinable shower fittings and accessories. Discover more details at www.rdr.link/KAS036

3. LECICO

Adding to its Design Series,  Lecico has introduced Layla and Zara, created to be mixed and matched. Layla offers curved edge furniture, with a choice of compact laminate worktops, vessel, tap-deck or inset slab basin with rimless WCs, freestanding bath, shower enclosures, plus bath screens. Whereas Zara furniture is straight-lined and comes with a stepped basin, so it can be used semi-recessed or with a pedestal, and a choice of countertops. Download the brochure at www.rdr.link/KAS038

4. CROSSWATER

Bathroom supplier Crosswater has expanded its shower enclosure range with the launch of the Optix 10 Quadrant and new Clear 6 finish. The Optix 10 Quadrant is available in five colours, including Brushed Bronze, which is also the new finish for the Clear 6 collection of enclosures. All enclosures are treated with an ‘easy-clean’ finish. Read more on this at www.rdr.link/KAS039

5. HARRISON BATHROOMS

Bathroom supplier Harrison Bathrooms has introduced a Fluted Glass Wetroom Panel, part of its Scudo 17 collection. Made from 8mm toughened glass, the panel is treated with Acqua Shield cleaning technology, claimed to resist the build-up of limescale and dirt on the surface. It is available with five profile finishes and comes with a Lifetime Guarantee. Read more on this at www.rdr.link/KAS040

Wall-hung

Stand & deliver \1

While wall-hung modular furniture may be the go-to for consumers, who desire the look of a boutique hotel bathroom, there has been a revival of floor standing furniture. Alongside wall-hung vanities and tall units, enter the Mid-Centuryinspired washstand and a choice of contemporary-style fitted cabinetry. Marketing manager of Harrison Bathrooms Peter Woodward comments: “Freestanding and fitted furniture are rising in popularity and can bring some serious storage solutions to a bathroom.” And between the two styles, they answer the interior trends for cohesion at one end of the scale and eclecticism at the other.

Freestanding favourites

Commercial director of Brandt Design Julia Steadman explains the popularity of freestanding furniture, commenting: “Freestanding furniture is becoming desirable as a custom way to add character and provide ample storage in bigger spaces. As the master suite concept develops, with generous bathrooms and dressing areas off the master bedroom, we are seeing that armoire-style storage is in demand to store towels, toiletries and cleaning products away from the wet zone.” It provides the design advantages of being easier to plan, as head of marketing at

Utopia Helen Clark states: “Freestanding furniture solutions have always been very popular, a little easier to plan and install than a fully fitted run of furniture but also very easy to drop in as a quick upgrade without having to redirect and change any water supplies that come up through the floor.”

While Karen Jervis, chartered marketer, at Ambiance Bain, points out freestanding furniture could also be a more eco-conscious choice if furniture pieces were reused in the bathroom: “Freestanding furniture, if created using recycled furniture, offers a sustainable alternative to buying new. However, this will not be suitable for everyone.”

Fitted advantages

Whereas fitted furniture offers planning advantages in difficult to design areas. Senior category manager of Tavistock Bathrooms

Keith Alcock points out: “Fitted bathroom furniture is the ideal solution to awkward bathroom layouts and makes good use of nooks, corners and disused space. Likewise fitted cabinetry is a great way to conceal unsightly pipework to give a clean, uncluttered and a cohesive bathroom look.”

However, interestingly, it also offers retailers an advantage over DIY competitors, as more design expertise is required to plan the space and it also opens up additional sales, as

1.

Provence features a country-style Shaker fascia and is shown here with a curved door in Safari. Discover more about the range at www.rdr.link/KAS041

2.HIB

Genesis furniture offers units, suitable for wall-hung and floorstanding schemes, with open and closed storage, infill, end panels and plinths. View the online brochure at www.rdr.link/KAS042

3.

The Scudo Classica freestanding furniture range is shown here in Silk Stone Grey. Discover all the technical details at www.rdr.link/KAS043

bathroom furniture does not answer the need of all UK customers, as the popularity

AMBIANCE BAIN

HARRISON BATHROOMS

Keith Alcock of Tavistock states: “For the retailer, fitted furniture is a good opportunity to upsell complementary products such as brassware, mirrors and bathroom lighting.”

Growing popularity

In fact, such is the popularity of freestanding and fitted furniture, Keith Alcock reports: “Our fitted offering makes up about 36% of all sales of furniture and Tavistock is seeing a growth of 30% year-on-year in this category ” While Karen Jervis of Ambiance Bain states fitted furniture accounts for 40% of her company’s sales One thing is for certain, freestanding and fitted furniture is not just holding firm but actually growing in sales. Head of marketing at Roxor Jon Walker states fitted is a “significant” portion of its furniture sales, adding: “While we have a wide variety of modular options, our focus on expanding the fitted furniture range reflects its increasing popularity ”

Contemporary colours

While often associated with more classical schemes, there has been a rejuvenation of freestanding and fitted furniture designs Just as Shaker styles have moved across into the wall-hung modular ranges, fitted furniture collections are now available with handlessless doors and drawers, a wide range of colours, soft matt textures, and open shelving

Cabinetry customisation

In addition, fitted furniture has also embraced the trend for personalisation through customisation, as Jon Walker of Roxor Group reports: “Our Fusion collection stands out as the most popular fitted range, with consistently growing sales year after year Fusion furniture offers a high degree of customisability, allowing customers to choose from six colours, including gloss greys and woodgrain finishes It also provides multiple options for worktops and basins.” And sales director of HiB Ash Chilver has also found the demand for customisation driving sales of its Novum Fabrica range, offering wall-hung and floorstanding units: “Because the customer has the opportunity to choose the unit and finish, handle type, basin style, worktop and brassware, the range has really offered the design customisation of fitted in a modular configuration and it has been one of our fastest-growing ranges in recent years ”

Mix and match

Of course, it may not simply be the case of choosing one style of furniture over another. Manufacturers have worked hard to create styles and palettes that work together, complementing

and contrasting, to create furniture that can suit the individual needs and wants of consumers

Jon Walker of Roxor Group continues: “Both fitted and modular furniture can be installed together in the same bathroom scheme The only limitations are the available space and the customer’s design vision ” Whatever furniture or combination of furniture is chosen by a customer, the importance is that storage is included in a bathroom scheme, as Keith Alcock concludes: “The addition of furniture into a bathroom for the retailer represents a larger sales value per bathroom and so it is in their interest to maximise that whilst also being a huge, practical benefit to their customer ”

Reflecting the trend for black interiors is the Stockholm floorstanding unit in Matt Black Download the brochure at www.rdr.link/KAS044

5 TAVISTOCK BATHROOMS

Calm fitted furniture is shown in a 1500mm length and in grey gloss, with a white vessel basin. Read more about the range at www.rdr.link/KAS045

6. UTOPIA

Qube Edge is available in a choice of four colours and is pictured in Wild Green Watch the video at www.rdr.link/KAS046

4. SONAS BATHROOMS

Freestanding and fitted furniture are rising in popularity and can bring some serious storagesolutions to a bathroom

COMPANY MAT TERS

Offering support for independent kitchen and bathroom firms because your business is our business MANAGEMENT

Reinvent leadership and business

R es po nding t o t o ug h t im es wit h em pa t hy, kindnes s a nd po s it iv it y will wo rk wo nders s a y s P et er J o nes , fo under o f F o y ne J o nes R ecruit m ent a s he urg es us a ll t o be lea ders in bus ines s

With rising inflation and a consumer slowdown predicted, this is a great time to show your dedication as a leader Whether you are running a business, working as an employee or a self- employed contractor, remember that you are always leading yourself through change If you ’ve ever got married, divorced, lost a job or got a new one, you have reinvented yourself It’s what humans do In fact, we are designed to evolve and change, even if we don’t always want to! We al l know that our industry is changing Manufacturing processes are constantly upgraded, and the majority of admin is now done online As we react to changing demographics and trends, this means both

redundancies and new opportunities

Support change

If you are helping someone through change I have learned if you show empathy, listen and give advice, you can build confidence and leave people feeling inspired In my experience, success is an inside job and unique to the individual We al l measure success in different ways, so drop your judgement Simply being a friend ly ear for your col leagues, friends and family can make a massive difference B eing open is at the heart of reinvention This is why I applaud employers who bring in new initiatives such as flexible working to

How online configurators help KBB sales

Cra ig R o t hwell, bus ines s dev elo pm ent direct o r o f Onfig r, ex pla ins o nline co nfig ura t o rs pro v ide a v irt ua l s ho wro o m , ent ice purcha s es a nd help ups ell o r clo s e a dea l

I think we can al l agree there are end less possibilities when it comes to kitchen and bathroom design, and that the end user can often feel overwhelmed when navigating the different elements

As consumers look to the expertise of KBB brands and businesses for guidance and product intel, there’s a natural expectation they’ll be able to deliver the most up-to-date solutions to meet an end users’ brief However, a retail space is not a warehouse offering capacity for huge volumes of stock, so you need to have a bolt-on system that gives access to products without the square footage, and drive customer enquiries through to your sales teams

Helping convert customers

With this, and the current state of the economy in mind, there is a strong need to convert design conversations into copperbot tomed sales as quickly and accurately as possible Investing in a configurator can serve as a virtual showroom thanks to photo realistic 3D graphics In my experience, configurators are extremely effective in helping customers figure out what they want before moving onto the next level of the design and purchasing c ycle

Upsell using technolog y We are finding consumers are becoming more

support and nurture their teams. Why? In a nutshel l, wel l being leads to wel ldoing – a happier workforce with lower absenteeism leads to higher productivity and stronger profits Ha r n e s s i n g u s e r- f r i e n d ly te c h n o l o g y i s a n o t h e r way o f b e i n g o p e n to c h a n ge T h i s m i g h t m e a n u s i n g W h a t s A p p o r Fa c e b o o k g ro u p s fo r wo r k i f i t fe e l s a p p ro p r i a te S o c i a l m e d i a i s n o t go i n g to d i s a p p e a r s o i t m a ke s s e n s e to s e e i f i t c a n d o s o m e h e avy l i ft i n g fo r yo u

Nuturing talent

Never assume that once you have onboarded an employee this is the end of the journey A good employer is like a gardener, always in touch with the lie of the land and keen to grow a healthy business For too long, the onus has been on the employee to keep their skil ls sharp and keep proving their worth We are now in a position where respect is a two -way street between managers and their teams, as wel l as between ourselves and our

sophisticated in their tastes as the trend for personalisation permeates every part of the market It therefore makes sense to plan how you can upsell your customers and best showcase your design skills Think about how having a panoramic view on the screen could show customers the possibilities of installing a window seat, adding a bootroom or simply seeing both sides of an island unit And consider how much time you’d save by making real-time adjustments to a blueprint while on a site visit!

Not only can you help your customers reimagine their home, you wil l also find it easier

customers

In fact, we need to reinvent what being a leader stands for Fundamental ly it is about delivering the very best service to your people, team, clients, end users and industry With this in mind, we must al l try our best to lean into change, so harness your team’s creativity and stay resilient I believe in you!

Visit Foyne Jones Recruitment at www.rdr.link/KAS050

to upsel l products and offer bespoke elements at the touch of a but ton to help elevate the scheme and fat ten your profits

P l a n fo r f u tu re I urge our industry to look at the latest configurators with an entrepreneurial eye and do the maths to see how quickly upfront investment can be recouped, with licensing and set up typical ly costing the equivalent of a new bathroom

Aberdeen Group Study reports there is a 20% average increase in revenue for companies that have configurable products online, and so by harnessing a configurator you will speed up decision making, which in turn will accelerate the sales process and impact the number of projects commissioned

Not only wil l a configurator inspire new levels of creativity within your business, but it wil l also help to save unwanted design costs

Can you afford not to make the change?

Find out more at www rdr link/KAS051

Learning and development manager of the Builders Merchant Federation Kerr y W ilson offers advice on how to embrace apprentices in your business

I often have discussions around finding the right candidate, the weighted stigma around apprenticeships being for 16 –19 -year- olds and how best to support an apprentice when they are in the business So here are some top tips on how to start your talent succession pipeline through apprenticeships as the route into the industry

Starting with School leavers When we consider students preparing for work experience open your doors, give them a buddy and al low them to start to understand what you do. When they are due work experience, usual ly in their last year of schooling, invite them back, offer them regular Saturday work or holiday work, as this wil l get them starting to think about the career journey they can embark on with you Give them the opportunity of an apprenticeship upon leaving school

Apprenticeships for all

It’s real ly important to highlight, that there is no age limit for someone starting an apprenticeship Apprentices are learning and earn opportunities for people to develop new skil ls, knowledge and behaviours Therefore if an individual is looking to change career, move into a new job role or change companies, an apprenticeship could be the right choice for them to build the new skil ls required D uring an apprenticeship they wil l have protected learning time and coaching to

support their journey, as a business you should be able to put the measures in place to support the journey U s e ava i l a b l e f u n d i n g With mil lions of pounds every year of unspent apprenticeship levy we need to do more I can guarantee there is a programme to support the development of new col leagues or to upskil ls your existing workforce Let’s start with a showroom, sales person, manager, designer, you guessed it there are apprenticeship opportunities for each of them; Level 4 sales professional, level 3 fit ted furniture design technician, level 3 team leader, level 5 operational / departmental manager to name a few

Consider ‘growing’ your own instal ler, with the ‘fit ted interiors’ apprenticeship, an opportunity to develop someone and grow your own business With over 500 Apprenticeship standards listed on Ifate

institute of apprenticeships There are many to choose from

Understanding apprenticeship funding can feeling complex or the key thing to remember apprenticeships are available for everyone If your annual wage bil l exceeds £3 mil lion you wil l already be paying into the levy, 0 5% of your wage bil l, use this to train through apprenticeships If the wage bil l is under £3mil lion you wil l have access to claim up to 95% of funding

Visit BMF at www rdr link/KAS052

WEBSITE STORIES

What has been driving Kitchens & Bathrooms News website traffic?

Here are the top three stories with the biggest hits in July on www.kandbnews.co.uk

HIDEALOO

London startup Hidealoo has launched a discreet, moveable WC frame to ease the installation of toilets in small and hard to fit spaces. Hidealoo’s steel mechanism allows a toilet pan to be swivelled through 90º, meaning it can be hidden inside a wall or cupboard when not in use. Manufactured in Britain, Hidealoo has been designed to work with any standard UK wall-hung ceramic pan and tested to hold 400kg in weight. Discover more at www.rdr.link/KAS047

BLUM

Family-owned furniture fittings business Blum has recorded a drop in turnover of 12%

LECICO BATHROOMS

Following three years of “record” sales, Lecico Bathrooms has made six sales appointments to support its growth in the UK. Eric Adam has been appointed as specification manager, while Ronnie Moses and Dean French have been named specification account managers. William Berry has joined Lecico Bathrooms as commercial specification manager, while Ashleigh Grant has been named key account

ADVERTISEMENT

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.

BIKBBI (inside back cover)

www.rdr.link/KAS100

Burlington (page 24)

www.rdr.link/KAS101

Caple Ltd (page 13)

www.rdr.link/KAS102

CM Group/Senstec (page 43)

www.rdr.link/KAS103

Cosentino UK/Silstone (page 11)

www.rdr.link/KAS104

Crosswater (page 43)

www.rdr.link/KAS105

Crown Products (back cover)

www.rdr.link/KAS106

Franke UK Ltd (page 35)

www.rdr.link/KAS107

Hill’s Panel Products Ltd(page 29)

www.rdr.link/KAS108

Howdens Joinery Ltd (page 25)

www.rdr.link/KAS109

Lecico (page 4)

www.rdr.link/KAS110

Omega PLC/Novus (page 9)

www.rdr.link/KAS111

Perrin & Rowe (inside front cover)

www.rdr.link/KAS112

Quooker UK Ltd (page 32)

www.rdr.link/KAS113

Roper Rhodes Ltd (page 40)

www.rdr.link/KAS114

STH Westco (page 17)

www.rdr.link/KAS115

Utopia Bathroom Group Ltd (page 6)

www.rdr.link/KAS116

to €2.3m million for the 2022/2023 financial year ended 30 June 2023.  Following a period of “above-average” growth, including an 11.6% increase in  2021/22, managing directors Martin and Philipp Blum said it was an expected and foreseeable development. The company reported the furniture industry has been experiencing a sharp decline in demand since the second half of 2022. View the whole story at www.rdr.link/KAS048

manager and John Wightman has been appointed lead generation executive. Read more on this at www.rdr.link/KAS049