The Ideal Bathroom Magazine Issue 28 by Ideal Bathrooms

Issue 28 | July 2019

THE IDEAL BATHROOM Essential information for bathroom retailers

New brand partner Introducing RAK Ceramics, our new brand partner

The Buzz The latest news from the bathroom industry

Essential Revealed, the new furniture ranges from Essential

CONCEPT AIR FITTINGS, DESIGNED FOR ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE AND CONTEMPORARY STATEMENT STYLING Complements Concept Air, Concept Space and Concept Freedom collections · Precision German engineering · Five year guarantee · Supplied with flow straighteners to maximise flow rates

Visit ideal-standard.co.uk for more information

WHAT’S INSIDE… 4 INTRODUCING DAVID GLEDHILL

Our new Managing Director discusses the industry

EXCITING DEVELOPMENTS, PORTFOLIO EXPANSION AND A TRIP TO REMEMBER Welcome to the Summer edition of The Ideal Bathroom. It’s a jampacked edition as we’ve got lots of things to tell you about, including new product ranges, digital news and industry updates. Firstly, I would like to give a warm welcome to David Gledhill, who has taken on the role of Managing Director of Ideal Bathrooms and Neville Lumb. David’s appointment comes as former MD, John Bagshaw leaves us to devote his full attention to further develop and grow International Decorative Surfaces. I would like to wish John all the very best and I’m looking forward to this exciting new chapter for Ideal Bathrooms.

THE BUZZ All the latest industry news in one place

A MARKETING OPPORTUNITY Exploring contracts in the bathroom industry

12 RAK CERAMICS

Introducing our new brand partner

THE IDEAL WEBSITE UPDATE Showcasing the new features of the site

IDEAL PROMISE Ideal’s Customer Service promise

20 ESSENTIAL NEW PRODUCTS Introducing the stunning new furniture ranges

28 TAVISTOCK FITTED FURNITURE Introducing the new fitted furniture range

I’m delighted to announce our new brand partnership with RAK Ceramics, becoming their new national distributor. We also see new additions to the growing collections of Essential and Tavistock with their new furniture ranges.

34 RACE TO THE ORIENT

On pages 8 – 10 we look at the benefits of contracts and why we believe it’s the right time for our customers to start investing in this lucrative market.

HAPPY RETIREMENT Richard Martin approaches retirement

SALAMANDER EVE New innovative Shower pump from Salamander

Our Race to the Orient winners enjoyed a trip to remember when they explored the ‘Land of Smiles’. Find out more about our guests’ adventures and view photos from the trip on pages 34 - 36 I hope you enjoy reading this issue and I would like to thank you all for your continued support throughout the year.

A look at what happened on the ‘Trip of a Lifetime’

42 A DAY IN THE LIFE...

See what an Ideal Bathrooms driver gets up to on a working day

Danielle Lillis Commercial Director

INDUSTRY RECOGNITION Alan Dodds, Roca, receives a lifetime achievement award

If you would like to contribute to The Ideal Bathroom please email lyndsey.bailey@idealbathrooms.com 0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

INTRODUCING DAVID GLEDHILL In this issue we welcome David Gledhill into his new role as Managing Director of Ideal Bathrooms. With a vast array of industry expertise, David takes over from John Bagshaw after 10 years at the helm. We wish John the very best and look forward to this new chapter for Ideal Bathrooms. Q. Congratulations on being appointed MD of Ideal Bathrooms. How does it feel to be taking the reins? I’m looking forward to the new challenge. The business is in good shape so I’m eager to explore how this can be maintained, developed and taken to the next level.

Q. With 17 years of experience as a Managing Director, how would you describe your management style? My approach is strategic and pragmatic. Experience has helped me carve out a clear approach to customer service which is crucial in any business. I’m also passionate about developing excellent people; I’m a firm believer that success comes down to having the right people in the right jobs within the right places.

to look at Ideal Bathrooms from a customer perspective and this viewpoint will be crucial to the future development.

Q. What’s first on the agenda in your new role? I want to understand every element of the business, the economic environment and the challenges ahead before developing my strategic approach. The most important part of this is getting to know the team.

Q. What motivates you about your new role? Facing up to challenges in the marketplace, including the changing nature of customer behaviour and buying habits inspires me and I’m excited to sink my teeth into new channels. In my opinion, evolution, not revolution is paramount to the future success of the business.

Q. Having spent the last 10 years managing Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant, you’ve worked with Ideal Bathrooms as a customer. What insight has this provided you? Having worked with Ideal Bathrooms as an internal partner for a long time, I have a strong knowledge of the products and suppliers, but equally importantly, I have the right industry connections. The insight gained from my previous role enables me

Q. Finally, the ‘B’ word; How is the impending Brexit impacting the bathroom industry? Brexit has created its own climate of uncertainty across all channels, commerce and business. It’s this uncertainty that is causing the fluctuations in trading.

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

THE BUZZ LATEST NEWS IDEAL BATHROOMS

Armitage Rugeley Staffordshire WS15 4BT England T: 01543 413311 E: info@idealspec.co.uk E: productinfo@idealspec.co.uk armitage-shanks.co.uk

Help is on tap...

A move to the dark side… For further assistance with all Armitage Shanks water saving products visit our website

Or call the Armitage Shanks Technical Helpline 0870 122 8822 Sales Office

0800 634 2600

www.ideal-standard.co.uk

CONCEPT

Scan with your smartphone to see full product details on idealspec.co.uk

Freedom Elongated Rimless Wall Hung Bowl 75cm Projection Suitable for: ISI Product Code

180

E819701

Domestic and commercial use Part of the extensive Concept suite

COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS FOR THE TRADE

760

Slow close toilet seat option 75cm projection

365 top inlet

Doc M compliant

150

Related Products

Additional Options

Contour 21 Standard Close Coupled 4.5L Cistern With Syphon No Lever for Use With 75cm Projection Bowl ISI Code S365401

Contour 21 Standard Toilet Seat And Cover Top Fixing Hinges - White ISI Code S406501

Spatula Cistern Lever ISI Code S4420AA Contour 21 Standard Toilet Seat With Retaining Buffers - No Cover - Top Fixing Hinges - White ISI Code S406601

Business & Leisure

Education

Hospital

Contour 21 Standard Toilet Seat With Retaining Buffers - No Cover - Top Fixing Hinges - Blue ISI Code S406636

210

870 450 480 outlet 102 OD

200

Contour 21 standard toilet seat with retaining buffers - no cover - top fixing hinges - Red ISI Code S4066GQ

Assisted Living

In Stock

concealed bracket (supplied)

575

3 Litres

WRAS Approved

20683 IDEAL RMI IDEAL BATHROOMS v2a.indd 10

Available in four of the most popular sizes, 690x500mm, 1110x500mm, 1110x600mm and 1703x600mm, these stunning towel warmers will add a statement feature to any bathroom and as well as being stylish they are also practical giving up to 45% more heat output than their comparable chrome counterparts.

415

Rimless

ARMITAGE SHANKS

Essential Bathrooms are delighted to introduce a range of new straight Matt Black towel warmers to their already extensive towel warmer portfolio.

COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS FOR THE TRADE - 2019 EDITION

www.essentialfromideal.com

2019 EDITION

Water Label Rating See p6 for full details

05/07/2019 15:54

New Armitage Shanks product guide available for trade Armitage Shanks, the UK’s expert provider of washroom solutions, has launched its new Commercial RMI product guide, an easy to navigate catalogue full of insight on its latest solutions for the trade. The Armitage Shanks booklet was created by the manufacturer to help trade counter teams and installers quickly find the information they need to complete their projects. It contains useful data and specs on washroom solutions used within repair, maintenance and improvement in the non-domestic market, including commercial offices, hospitals, entertainment & leisure, schools and more. Whether it is upgrading a tap, replacing a toilet or specifying a complete washroom, all the products needed and their related parts can be found in the guide. For more detailed information, QR codes can also be found alongside each product. The booklet indicates the products that are available from stock at Ideal Bathrooms. It is available as a printed copy or a pdf to download. For more information on Armitage Shanks visit www.ideal-spec.co.uk

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

myDay Bathroom Collection Geberit has introduced a new premium furniture collection, offering homeowners stylish ceramics and smart storage solutions ideal for creating a light and bright sanctuary space. The myDay range is available in two colourways, Taupe Gloss and White Gloss, with a wide variety of unit options available, from single and double vanity units to tall cabinets. Designed to invite users to take a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, myDay furniture boasts a host of clever design touches, including a soft closing mechanism, elegant internal LED lighting, inner storage compartments and non-slip interior mats. Its coordinating range of illuminated LED mirrors includes cutting edge anti-mist technology, ensuring the mirror never steams up. Its stunning aesthetics are matched equally in quality, with basins coated with Geberit’s unique KeraTect glaze to provide a durable, scratch-proof surface which is extremely soft to touch.

Showerwall’s new décors create a classic contemporary look in the bathroom Reflecting current colour and pattern trends in today’s home interiors, four stylish new décors in Showerwall’s Custom Collection bring a timeless yet contemporary aesthetic to the bathroom. Navy Herringbone (pictured) is one of four stylish new décors in Showerwall’s Custom Collection that embrace the current appeal of art deco and geometric designs, as well as bold blues and pink hues popular in the interior design market. Scallop Blush, Scallop Coral Reef and Geo Cube have also been added to Showerwall’s range of lightweight and easy to install acrylic panels, which are ideal for use in shower enclosures, around baths, behind basins and to create statement feature walls.

myDay is one of a series of new Geberit products launching this year, joining the Smyle and Xeno² collection, AquaClean Sela shower toilet and Sigma50 flush plate.

The Custom Collection comprises 18 décors, the total range of 69 décors also includes the Marble, Quarry, Mineral and Acrylic Collections which cater for all tastes, from polished acrylics and fully customised designs to luxuriously veined marbles, earthy stones and shimmering quartz.

For more information, visit www.geberitcollection.co.uk

For more information, visit www.showerwall.co.uk

Ideal Standard opens new £1M Clerkenwell showroom Ideal Standard has opened a new £1 million showroom in London’s design hub, Clerkenwell. Officially launched in June 2019, the new four-storey specification centre has been created to bring architects and designers together to experience the group’s evolving family of design-driven bathroom products. Ideal Standard recently announced its exclusive long-term partnership with renowned design studio Palomba Serafini Associati. The first ranges from this collaboration were showcased at ISH 2019. The new solutions take inspiration from previous iconic Ideal Standard products. They will be on display at the company’s new design hub, alongside innovative collections from the group’s family of UK brands: Armitage Shanks, Ideal Standard and Sottini. For more information, visit: www.idealstandard.com

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

Metallic Madness With metallic accents becoming more popular in the home, it was only a matter of time before this trend hit the bathroom industry. Inspired by offering a truly individual solution for every bathroom, Aqualisa Q™ Edition offers extraordinary showering with luxurious controller finishes. Rose Gold and Nickel embody modern elegance guaranteed to stand the test of time; with the burnished tones and industrial chic of these trending metallics, these accents can bring both interest and warmth to what can be considered a cold space. Not only are these finishes an aesthetic dream, Q™ Edition offers 6 pre-set experiences to enhance both your mood and lifestyle – customise options like flow, temperature and duration to create and save your perfect shower setting and return to it each time with the press of a lever. For more information visit www.aqualisa.co.uk and order at www.idealbathrooms.com

New Origin brassware and accessories collection from VitrA Subtle elegant design is the key theme of the outstanding new Origin brassware and accessories collection from VitrA. Origin presents retailers, designers and consumers with a complete and versatile co-ordinated collection that is the perfect partner for contemporary sanitaryware. All pieces are available in chrome, brushed nickel, copper and matt black finishes. Marketing Manager Margaret Talbot comments “The designfor-all ethos can be seen throughout with the choice of finishes, sizes and product types. It goes without saying that top quality materials have been used with cartridges that allow fingertip control and deliver an efficient flow rate. There are products to satisfy the most demanding specification of basin mixers, baths, showers, wet rooms, WCs and a complimentary accessory range. Origin also includes colour-matched traps, wastes and shut off valves”. For more information about VitrA products, visit www.vitra.co.uk

Armitage Shanks launches new DOC M campaign Armitage Shanks, the UK’s expert provider of washroom solutions has launched a new campaign to showcase its enhanced DOC M offering. The manufacturer, responsible for pioneering DOC M packs, has created a new online hub comprising a wealth of product and application insight. The revamped website hosts a range of in-depth brochures, videos and useful documents around DOC M for those wanting to make their washrooms more inclusive. DOC M, short for Document M, is a fundamental part of UK guidance created to make public and commercial buildings more accessible. Armitage Shanks’ offering has recently been enhanced to include new red toilet seats, grab rails, hinged arms, toilet roll holders and back rests. The colour is visually more distinctive than others, due to its innate properties. This means that users experiencing sight loss are more likely to see and recognise red solutions rather than other colours. For more information about Armitage Shanks extensive, enhanced DOC M offering, visit www.ideal-spec.co.uk

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

A MARKET OPPORTUNITY! WHY CONTRACTS OFFER A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR RETAILERS There are numerous opportunities for organic growth and success in the contract market. By taking on commercial and residential projects, bathroom retailers can build a long-term dependable income stream as well as growing overall sales.

The contract market is heavily dependent on the success of the construction industry and with England in the midst of a housing shortage the opportunities to win contract work are growing. Reports have suggested that more than three million new social housing properties alone will be needed within the next 20 years. The UK is already experiencing increasing numbers of small to mediumsized projects, which see developers building anything from four luxury properties to 40 houses on one site. New-build dwellings are in high demand and with housing developers’ minds shifting away from lowerpriced products to quality and durability, there’s never been a better time for bathroom retailers to explore this relatively untapped market. Regional and local developers account for over 90 per cent of UK’s housebuilder market, offering unique opportunities for bathroom retailers. With this in mind, we believe it’s the right time for our customers to start exploring this potentially lucrative market. Tapping into the contract market could benefit your business in numerous ways, some of which you may not have considered. Contracts for residential and low-level commercial projects offer a stable, dependable income stream for retailers, especially when showroom footfall is quiet. Albeit a more competitive sector than in retail sales, longer-term projects provide continuous revenue throughout the length of the contract, enabling businesses to make strategic financial and business decisions.

It’s important to pay attention to local restaurants, hotels and other businesses who are looking to refurbish their premises, as they are often searching for a company which can specify high-quality bathrooms, with a focus on design, a core competence of a bathroom retailer.

Gary Matthews, Ideal Bathrooms’ Sales Director

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

THE BENEFITS OF CONTRACTS: Sales growth Longer-term projects offer a dependable income stream Projects can be scaled up easily Potential for referrals and future contracts Strong partnerships developed

WHAT ARE HOUSEBUILDERS LOOKING FOR FROM A RETAILER? Product durability Quality over cost Retailers to be able to manage and hold large quantities of stock the Idealists can help with this Trustworthy relationships Advice and support A variety of brands to choose from

New, innovative products which meet the demands of the market

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

By working and building strong relationships with reputable residential property builders, retailers have the opportunity to showcase their experience, specialist knowledge, product offering and high-quality service, which could lead to business referrals and future contracts. In addition, projects are easy to scale up, providing further opportunities to increase sales. It’s understandable that many retailers are not currently investing heavily in the contracts market as they feel it’s time-consuming and requires a degree of focus to search for opportunities. It’s up to distributors, like us, and suppliers to help bathroom retailers enter this market so they can reap the benefits.

How can bathroom retailers discover this kind of work? It’s not as difficult as you might think to find contract work. It’s essential for retailers to pay attention to upcoming building developments and to start conversations with contractors, discussing what services they can offer. Developing trustworthy relationships is key to success in this industry; contractors often host ‘Meet the Buyer’ events ahead of local projects, giving attendees a chance to discuss work opportunities face-to-face. With hundreds of small housing developers in the UK seeking to differentiate their properties from national builders’ projects, many often look to specify high-quality bathrooms with a focus on design, which is where retailers can step in to help with their expert advice and variety of alternative brands. There are also further opportunities with restaurants, hotels and even business centres. The buildings often undergo refurbishment projects to update their branding and to stay on-trend. Talking to local installers and tradesmen can often lead to information that can be followed up by retailers too.

The Ideal contract service Ideal Bathrooms wants to support our customers who are interested in entering this market - that’s why one of our key objectives is to deliver transformational growth in contracts. We’ve established a dedicated team who are on hand to deliver an estimating service to retailers across 26 brands, helping them to build a competitive quote aligned to the end project needs. Our stock holding of over 11 million pounds worth of bathroom products is one of the largest in the industry, so our customers need not worry about the cost and risk implications of storing large volumes of product on their own premises. Delivery can be in one shipment or a number of smaller deliveries over a period of time. Our specialists in the estimating, sales and customer service teams are always on hand to support our retail customers at all stages of supplying small to medium contracts. Embracing contracts and the possibilities they offer makes perfect sense. We certainly believe this is a market to invest in for bathroom retailers who are looking to grow and increase sales.

Do you take on contract work or is this a market you’re looking to explore? Our Idealists would love to hear your thoughts Tweet us @idealbathrooms

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

VICTORIAN BATHROOM DESIGN REVISITED

Exclusive to Ideal Bathrooms

www.bayswaterbathrooms.co.uk

01376 319870

AN IDEAL PARTNERSHIP

WITH A PIONEER IN HI-TECH BATHROOM INNOVATIONS

Contemporary, luxurious and offering the ultimate in technology for bathroom suites, RAK Ceramics’ products are renowned for helping to build marvels in iconic buildings across the world. Ideal Bathrooms has announced its biggest brand launch of the year following the distributor’s new partnership with RAK Ceramics - a global leader in its field. More than 1,500 products comprising sleek basins, furniture and sanitaryware have been added to Ideal Bathrooms’ growing portfolio. From July the complete RAK Ceramics collection will be available through Ideal Bathrooms - as one of the largest ceramics brands in the world, RAK Ceramics is the perfect addition to Ideal’s market leading portfolio. RAK Ceramics’ full range of basins, furniture, sanitaryware and brassware, including the newest ranges – RAK-Precious and RAKJoy – will all be stocked and available for next day delivery from Ideal Bathrooms. As one of the largest ceramics brands in the world, RAK Ceramics specialises in sanitaryware, producing more than five million pieces a year at its 16 state-of-the-art plants across the United Arab Emirates, India, Bangladesh and Iran.

Innovation A pioneer in introducing hi-tech innovations, RAK Ceramics uses a range of technologies to create water-efficient and sustainable products.

RAK-Precious Wall Mounted Counter Wash Basin 1TH

Setting higher standards for hygiene, RAK Ceramics rimless water closets feature uniquely engineered flushing systems, which remove waste and help to keep bathrooms fresh. With no rims to harbour germs, these toilets are easy to clean and can reduce water usage by a third.

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

RAK-Joy Wall Mounted Basin Unit, Drop in Wash Basin 1TH, Tall Storage Unit and Mirror Cabinet

To help reduce water consumption, RAK Ceramics has developed a dual flushing cistern system which uses a lower volume of water to flush toilets. The system is used in both their close coupled and concealed cisterns and allows users to choose how much water they want to use; a full (six litres) or half (three litres) flush. The system can also be adjusted to flush with a reduced full flush of just 4.5 litres. Making visiting the bathroom more hygienic, a number of RAK Ceramics products offer a hands-free experience thanks to touchless technology. The new RAK Ceramics Touchless Flushing System has brought the same ease of use and minimal spreading of germs offered in commercial restrooms, to the home.

We are thrilled to have RAK Ceramics on board with us. RAK Ceramics has a hugely impressive portfolio that will really appeal to our customer base and in addition, we can clearly see the significant brand investment being made in the UK market. The strengths of both businesses truly complement each other and it is great to start the partnership at such an exciting time for the brand.

Danielle Lillis, Ideal Bathrooms’ Commercial Director

RAK-Precious Countertop Slab Type A (Behind Grey) with Sensation Basin

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

INTRODUCING THE NEW RANGES RAK-Joy 120cm Wall Hung Basin Unit, Drop in Wash Basin 1TH and Plain Wall Hung Mirror

RAK-Precious

Providing luxury solutions for the wash basin area, RAK-Precious features collections for floors, walls, bathroom furnishings and accessories. An alternative to the functional white ceramics, the collection includes a full range of porcelain tile integrated wash basins. The countertop slabs, counter and drop-in washbasins are available in four sizes - 600mm, 800mm, 1000mm and 1200mm and six finishes.

This really is an ideal partnership and I’m looking forward to working with one of the UK’s leading bathroom distributors. This is a very exciting time for RAK Ceramics, we have made significant investment in our portfolio, brand and infrastructure, which will all contribute towards our ambitious growth plans. Partnering with Ideal Bathrooms gives us the confidence that our service offering to the market will now be stronger than ever.

Alvin Biggs, RAK Ceramics Managing Director

RAK-Precious Countertop Slab Type A (Carrara) with Sensation Basin

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

Key information about RAK Ceramics: 1,500 products added to Ideal Bathrooms’ portfolio

Full range available includes taps, furniture, ‘sanitaryware’, baths, heating, accessories and more

New collections RAK-Precious and RAK-Joy

RAK-Joy Wall Hung Basin Unit, Drop in Wash Basin 1TH and Plain Wall Hung Mirror

New state-of-the-art showroom has opened featuring virtual rooms. If you would like to plan a visit, speak to your Area Sales Manager

In stock and available to order now

RAK-joy Functional and elegant, RAK Ceramics new furniture range has been designed to meet individual styles. With well-organised interior spaces and modern lines, RAK-Joy units can hold up to 50kg, have soft close drawer runners and hinges, and adjustable glass shelving. Available in four finishes in five sizes - 400mm, 600mm, 800mm, 1000mm and 1200mm - the new gloss material, LAMILAK, gives a striking, smooth surface appearance and is produced from PET recyclable material. TECHWOOD, another addition, looks and feels like real wood but is made from polypropylene recyclable material.

‘How to order’ feature Keeping the ordering process simple, RAK Ceramics has developed an effortless step-by-step method to place orders. Merely pick the size, select your preferred colour and finish by choosing product.

For more information about Ideal Bathrooms and to view the RAK Ceramics product range visit www.idealbathrooms.com or contact 0800 634 2600.

RAK Ceramics products are available to order now from Ideal Bathrooms, with next day delivery available to 97% of the UK.

Twitter: @idealbathrooms

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

RAK-Joy Wall Hung Basin Unit, Drop in Wash Basin 1TH and Plain Wall Hung Mirror

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

LET’S GET DIGITAL Ideal’s new Trade Offers and Clearance websites are launching this July

Helping retailers and merchants to flourish and making our customers’ lives easier has always been at the heart of everything we do here at Ideal Bathrooms. Following the launch of our trade website two years ago, we have continually developed innovative ways to enrich your digital experience with numerous userfriendly features, including a quick order form, stock check tool, and electronic invoices. We are once again improving our digital offering with additional platforms to support you further by helping you save valuable time and money.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THE TRADE OFFERS WEBSITE?

24/7 access to offers and ordering

Exclusive deals that aren’t available in the printed publication

Prompts to make sure you never miss a great deal

Stay up-to-date with the latest offers

Access to enriched product and technical data including images and videos

Build deals bespoke to you from your favourite brands and ranges

TRADE OFFERS Having been published and circulated for the last three years, we believed that now was an ideal time to take our offering to the next level. By popular demand, we have launched our Trade Offers online functionality, based on your feedback and suggestions! Our trade website will now allow you to take advantage of our fantastic offers and purchase these directly online. This will provide you with more visibility and opportunity to benefit from the offers available. As well as detailed product information, technical data and images, you will have the ability to filter offers by brand and offer type. Prompts throughout the site will alert you of any offers based on what you’re searching for. You will have the ability to build your own bespoke deals based on our mix and pack offers, which will allow retailers to choose from a range of selected products to fit your needs.

FACT TUB WHAT IS TRADE OFFERS? • Quarterly publication • Showcases a wide range of offers across our brand partners • Promotions include, product mix offers, discounted pack offers, price reductions and voucher offers

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE ON THE CLEARANCE WEBSITE:

Trade price/offer price comparison (Was and Now)

New clearance product additions and clearance banners

Enriched product data and up-to-date pricing

The latest clearance items across all of our brands

24/7 order capability

Stock check functionality across all clearance products

WEB UPDATE There has been 2500 new products added to our website available NOW for customers, including our new brand partner RAK Ceramics!

Look out for new Essential furniture ranges, as well as new Tavistock fitted furniture and new ranges from Vitra and Geberit also live on our website!

CLEARANCE SECTION To ensure that we as a business have the ability to hold the right products, in the right place at the right time, including new range and brand introductions. We have created a new clearance section on our trade website, enabling us to offer you great deals on a wide range of withdrawn or overstocked products all in one place. Giving transparency to our customers, the website will show a product’s previous trade price and its current clearance offer. As well as complete technical product data and imagery to help you to purchase the right product for your needs, all clearance products will include the current stock available but remember when it’s gone, it’s gone! The clearance functionality will be available to customers with an online trade account. Allowing you to place orders swiftly from the different sections of our trade website, utilising the standard basket and ‘quick order form’. Our clearance section allows retailers to add value to their businesses by purchasing products at a discounted price, achieving fantastic deals on some great products.

Visit

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

AN IDEAL CUSTOMER SERVICE PROMISE At Ideal Bathrooms our customers are our top priority; call us Idealists but we believe the businesses we work with deserve a perfect service. Over the decades we have listened to retailers and merchants, understood the pressures they face and what they need to help them grow - that’s why we’ve established our Ideal Customer Service Promise. Our Idealists promise to do everything within their power to help UK retailers succeed. So what is our promise and how will it benefit customers?

24/7 online ordering

Nothing is too much trouble for our team of 22 Idealists; they know your time is precious - that’s why they answer calls within seven seconds.

To ensure we’re available when you are, our opening hours fit around you: 7:30am – 5:30pm weekdays and 9am – 12pm Saturdays.

If our customers are successful, so are we; that’s why our sales team are focused on understanding your requirements.

Our frontline customer service team are our 54 delivery drivers, who ensure your order arrives on time and in full.

A team who understands your needs

We know that delivery could make or break a sale; that’s why we offer next day delivery to 97% of the UK on orders placed before 5pm.

Sales support

A wide collection of products from Europe’s top brands

From display support to showroom planning, our sales team work hard to help you achieve your goals. Sales Director, Gary Matthews, heads up our team of 10 Area Sales Managers, who are always at the end of the phone.

As one of the leading bathroom distributors we hold an impressive amount of stock across many ranges. With over 20,000 product lines from 26 top brands across our strategically placed warehouses. That’s an Ideal Promise!

We understand that our customers are busy. That’s why we’ve developed our Trade Website, enabling retailers to place orders online at any time. Not only has the website been designed to make dealing with us more convenient, we’ve made it easier for customers to access key information, enabling you to track orders and keep on top of accounts.

Dedicated customer service team

We are here for our customers to support them however we can. We believe calls should be answered quickly, by a human and that any problems resolved as soon as possible.

FACT TUB: •

Our Customer Service team answers 24,000 calls every month

•

Call quality monitoring is in place

•

1,200 orders are processed every day, with 44% of purchases made over the phone

•

The industry standard is 70-75% of calls answered within 10 seconds Our Team answer 87% within this 10 second timeframe

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

ESSENTIAL EXPANDS ITS STYLISH FURNITURE RANGE Renowned for its beautiful clean lines, effortlessly chic, contemporary styling and stunning high-quality finish, Essential Bathrooms offers retailers access to furniture ranges that allow their customers to create the most stylish bathrooms at desirable prices. Offering on-trend, innovative ranges, Essential has developed its collection with the introduction of Dakota and Colorado; two new furniture ranges featuring inspiring colours, soft-close functionality and scratch-resistant surfaces.

DAKOTA FACT TUB:

•

Two colours - six products in each colour

•

Supermatt, anti-fingerprint finish

•

Anti-scratch technology

•

Thermal healing of micro scratches

•

Simple surface scratch removal

•

Brushed steel handles

•

Woodgrain interior finishes

•

Available in double ‘his and hers’ basins

Dakota Marine Blue WC Unit

Dakota Available in trend-setting Marine Blue and Onyx Grey, the stunning Dakota collection is an elegant and modern range in both its eye-catching looks and refined design, offering a superior option to those customers wanting a little something extra. Boasting a Supermatt, anti-fingerprint finish, the aesthetics of the furniture and doors can also be preserved and protected. Thanks to anti-scratch technology, the doors offer an extremely robust surface finish ensuring that the bathroom stays looking as good as new for years to come. Small scratches can be removed easily with thermal healing by using a damp cloth and a hair dryer - perfect for removing scuffs from nails or jewellery. The units also feature an internal contrasting wood grain finish, adding an extra air of luxury. There are a total of 6 products available in the two colours, comprising basins, a WC unit and a tall boy. Without a doubt, the hero product in the new Dakota range is the 1200mm four-drawer, wall-hung double basin and unit - a stunning addition to any bathroom as well as an attention-grabbing feature in a showroom!

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

Dakota finish features: Anti fingerprint No more fingerprints on the surface for improved aesthetics

Silky touch Luxurious appearance and warm and wax like feel when touching the foil

Easy repair Thermal healing of micro scratches

High scratch resistance Extremely robust surface finish incorporating anti-scratch technology

Supermatt finish The new frontier of the lacquering technology for a WOW factor

Dakota Marine Blue Wall Hung Tall Boy and Wall Hung 1200mm Unit & Basin

Colorado Also featuring an anti-fingerprint and Supermatt finish, striking and distinctive curved lines of the new Colorado range brings a generous helping of luxury to Essential’s offering. Every one of the nine product lines is handle-less, featuring instead an original and stylish cut-out lip integrated into the body of the unit, a contemporary and modern touch which enhances the sophisticated look and feel of Colorado Each product in this range also combines anti-scratch and thermal healing technology and is available in either Graphite Grey or Matt White. Everything about the range is smooth and sleek, with its stylish curves and a wax-like feel. Bathroom retailers can find basin units, a WC unit and a tall boy in the range. These units are available as either freestanding or wall hung and come in three popular sizes, 500, 600 and 800mm, making this range a flexible choice to suit bathrooms of all sizes. Whilst creating the new ranges, Essential has also reviewed its current furniture offering against the new trends to ensure that retailers always have the most up-to-date styles on hand to make them the bathroom retailer of choice.

COLORADO FACT TUB: •

Two colours - nine products in each colour

•

Supermatt, anti-fingerprint finish

•

Anti-scratch technology

•

Thermal healing of micro scratches

•

Handle-less - recessed grips feature for the safety conscious

•

Smooth, curved edges and refined aesthetic

Colorado Matt White Wall Hung Midi Boy and Wall Hung 2 Drawer Unit & Basin

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

Colorado finish features: Anti fingerprint No more fingerprints on the surface for improved aesthetics

Silky touch Luxurious appearance and warm and wax like feel when touching the foil

Easy repair Thermal healing of micro scratches

High scratch resistance Extremely robust surface finish incorporating anti-scratch technology

Supermatt finish The new frontier of the lacquering technology for a WOW factor

Colorado Graphite Grey Wall Hung 2 Drawer Unit & Basin

Matt Black Towel Warmers Keeping with in-vogue designs, a Matt Black towel rail has also been added to the existing towel warmer collection. Complementing all ranges, this on-trend statement feature is available in four sizes, from 690x500mm to 1703x600mm. Offering up to 45 per cent more heat output than its comparable chrome counterparts, the welcome addition can be paired with corresponding Matt Black thermostatic valves to complete the luxury look.

Colorado Graphite Grey Wall Hung Midi Boy

Straight Matt Black Towel Warmer

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

But that’s not all... Not only has the Essential Collection expanded its range offering, it’s branding and marketing materials are evolving too!

ALSO NEW TO ESSENTIAL...

A fantastic new brochure is also being launched and it’s bigger and better than ever!

Essential Bathrooms are delighted to have teamed up with Niagara to offer a variety of their tap and showering lines as part of the Essential range.

A sneak peak at the new brochure

Stunning | Eleg ant |

Refined

DAKOTA

This new inclusion considerably expands Essential’s brassware offering, taking its previous range from 5 lines to 8 & now includes a choice of showers and wastes. Now that’s Ideal…

Comprising of all the new furniture & brassware ranges as well as the existing ones including furniture, sanitaryware, shower enclosures, baths and accessories, this inspiring and exciting new brochure will also incorporate Essential’s sleek new branding as well as a fresh new look with a landscape design, which will allow users to view the products at their best.

- Internal wood 50cm WC Unit Marine Blue WC Unit | EF605 MB | £204.05 W: 500 x H: 800 x D: 200mm

- Range of size

Tall Boy Marine Blue Tall Boy | EF606 MB | £383.14 W: 350 x H: 1400 x D: 250mm

grain finish

options

- Soft close doors and drawers

New colour added to our best selling Nevada range Dakota finis

h features: Due to the growing demand for coloured furniture, Essential has also introduced Indigo Gloss, to its increasingly popular Nevada range; which is available across all existing SKUs and at the same price points. Anti fingerprint

No more fingerprints on the surface for improved aesthetics

Silky touch

Luxurious appear ance and warm and wax like feel when touching the foil

Easy repair

Thermal healing of micro scratches with a simple iron

For suites see pages 4-21

High scratch resista

A creative addition to the existing Cashmere, Dark Grey and White 22 | Gloss, it is the perfect choice for customers wanting their bathroom to really stand out from the crowd. Visit essentialfro

nce Extremely robust surface finish incorporating anti-scr atch technology

mideal.com for

more information

For Spring wetrooms see page 60

Supermatt finish

The new frontier of the lacquering technology for a WOW factor

120cm 4 Drawer

Wall-Hung Unit

and Basin, Tall Visit essentialfro Boy Unit, WC Unit, mideal.com for Ivy BTW WC more information and Seat

DAKOTA

Stunning | Elegant | Refined

| 23

50cm WC Unit Marine Blue WC Unit | EF605MB | £204.05 W: 500 x H: 800 x D: 200mm

Tall Boy Marine Blue Tall Boy | EF606MB | £383.14 W: 350 x H: 1400 x D: 250mm

Dakota finish features: Anti fingerprint

No more fingerprints on the surface for improved aesthetics

Silky touch

Luxurious appearance and warm and wax like feel when touching the foil

Easy repair

Thermal healing of micro scratches with a simple iron

High scratch resistance

Extremely robust surface finish incorporating anti-scratch technology

Supermatt finish

The new frontier of the lacquering technology for a WOW factor

22 |

Visit essentialfromideal.com for more information

For more information about Essential’s new furniture ranges, visit www.essentialfromideal.com Nedvada Indigo Gloss 500mm BTW Unit, Basin Unit with 2 Doors and Mirror

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF WATER

GROHE Icon 3D

At ISH 2019 GROHE had a dedicated hall that welcomed thousands of customers from all over the world, with around 500 new models unveiled and on display and was undoubtedly the most successful to date for GROHE. GROHE Icon 3D GROHE launched perhaps its most innovative product yet, Icon 3D. The limited production collection of 3D metal-printed taps pushes the boundaries of conventional product design and were the first to be unveiled by a leading European sanitaryware brand. Firmly establishing itself as thought-leading innovators within the industry, GROHE celebrated many other launches around the key themes of sustainability, digitalisation and design personalisation.

GROHE Plus Characterised by a D-shape body that has been designed to complement both round and square bathroom styles, GROHE Plus is a bathroom range inspired by the digital age. With tap models featuring LED temperate displays due to become available later this year, users will always know how hot the water is, moment to moment, encouraging a more considered approach to water consumption and providing increased control and security in the bathroom. The basin mixer also benefits from an Eco Spray function delivering water at a sustainable 4 litres per minute which is activated via infrared. Meanwhile, lending itself from kitchen tap design, the Plus range also offers models with a swivel spout and pull-out hoses to make daily washing and cleaning of the basin simple and convenient.

GROHE Blue Pure Mono In the kitchen, GROHE’s Blue WaterSystem range has expanded with the addition of Blue Pure, a tap exclusively for enjoying the natural taste of filtered still water. Using GROHE’s unique Blue filter technology, ordinary tap water becomes deliciously fresh, removing all the substances that can impair its taste, such as limescale, metals and chlorine. The GROHE Blue filter cartridge can purify up to 600 litres of water before it requires replacing, which can be switched in just a few easy steps.

GROHE Blue Pure Mono

GROHE Plus

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

GROHE Plus

GROHE Rainshower SmartConnect

GROHE Colours

From Autumn 2019, GROHE will offer the Rainshower 310 SmartConnect shower head, a shower experience designed around personal preference. Connected via Bluetooth technology and operated with a round remote control which can be mounted within the shower enclosure, users can conveniently select between the soft Rain or revitalising Jet spray patterns.

GROHE is leading the way in the trend for coloured brassware, offering ten metallic colours and finishes within many ranges of its vast offering of taps, showers, accessories and flush plates. The introduction of coloured brassware into the bathroom is giving the customer complete freedom and ownership over the design vision allowing them to create an aesthetic entirely to their individual tastes.

Rainshower 310 SmartConnect marks the beginning of the digital renovation of the shower thanks to its compatibility with existing thermostatic systems and flexible mounting options onto existing shower arms.

GROHE Rainshower Smart Connect

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

GROHE Colours

BEST SELLERS EXCLUSIVELY FROM IDEAL BATHROOMS

NEXO

E1 | MAY

ROCA’S BEST SELLERS We’ve partnered with Roca, ensuring their best-selling sanitaryware and furniture ranges are available through Ideal Bathrooms and direct to you for next day delivery to 97% of the UK. With specialist knowledge of the bathroom market, sales history and the display base, a core range of the bestselling product lines has been selected from the Victoria Basic, Debba, The Gap & Mini ranges. All of which will be stocked in Ideal Bathrooms’ depots and found in our 12 page dedicated brochure.

Nexo compact close-coupled WC pan - 342642000 moulded back-to-wall

£197.58

Nexo compact close-coupled cistern 6/3 litre dual flush

341645000

£203.85

Nexo soft-close seat

80164B004

BEST

EXCL USIV ISSU

ELY F

2019

Nexo wall-hung rimless WC pan

34664L000

£277.13

Nexo soft-close seat

80164B004

£101.95

ROM

Victoria-N Base Unit, 600x460, 3 Drawers,

SELL IDEA

ERS

L BAT

HRO

OMS

Nexo close-coupled WC pan - open back

342640000

£177.20

Nexo close-coupled cistern - 6/3 litre dual flush

341643000

£180.35

Nexo soft-close seat

80164B004

£101.95

VICTORIA & VICTORIA-N

Victoria Basin Square 600

Retail Prices Excluding VAT Inspirational 55% Discovery 50% Non Displayist 50%

32799E000

£157.00

856677153

£362.77

Victoria Basic base unit 600 x 460mm, 2 soft-close drawers, Gloss White (excludes basin)

Victoria N Base Unit 600x460, 2 Drawers,

856575806

856672806

£201.10

£290.56

Gloss White Anthracite Grey Tel: 08 (excludes basin) (excludes 00 63basin) 4 2600 | Em Victoria N Base Unit Victoria-N Base Unit, ail: ne RocaB wor 600x460, 2 Drawers, estSe 600x460, 3 Drawers, 856672153 £290.56 £362.77 856677806 de rs@id llerGloss sNEW White ealbat Gloss Anthracite Grey 3_v5.in hr dd 1 ooms.cbasin) (excludes (excludes basin) om | ww w.idea lbathr ooms.c om Tel: 0800 634 2600 | Email: neworders@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

Victoria Retail Victoria-N Retail Prices Excluding VAT Prices Excluding VAT Inspirational 55% Inspirational 55% Discovery 50% Discovery 50% Non Displayist 50% Non Displayist 0%

Victoria Basic base unit 600 x 460mm, 3 soft-close 857074806 drawers, Gloss White (excludes basin)

£237.90

SELLEST ERS 3.

20/05/

2019

Grab your FREE copy 15:44

Call 0800 634 2600 or login to your online trade account to order and get your copy today.

HOW MANY RACES HAVE A FINISH LINE LIKE THIS? Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve still got time to make your Ideal dream come true. Keep checking your progress at dubai.idealbathrooms.com and make a trip to Dubai a reality!

VISIT dubai.idealbathrooms.com ANY QUESTIONS? PLEASE CALL YOUR AREA SALES MANAGER

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

AN IDEAL FIT FOR ALL Tavistock’s new fitted furniture collections are set to make a splash at Ideal Bathrooms

Leading bathroom distributor Ideal Bathrooms has further enhanced its offering, after adding Tavistock’s two new fitted furniture ranges to its extensive portfolio. Offering a variety of bespoke features, Tavistock’s two new fitted furniture ranges, Legacy and Calm, have been added to Ideal Bathrooms’ extensive portfolio. From basin to floor, back to wall units, mirrors and more, we are thrilled to enhance our vast collection with over 180 products. Tavistock has developed the sophisticated fitted furniture ranges, Legacy and Calm, to suit all tastes with traditional and contemporary designs, comprising a variety of units, mirrors and more.

The latest collections Legacy Suitable for any space, Legacy offers flexibility and versatility. Creating a unified, traditional look, the range comprises standard and slim depth basin unit, floor, back to wall and full height unit options with sizes from 200mm to 600mm.

Offering an element of luxury, the lighter colour of Metro Grey is particularly effective in a smaller bathroom and can help to establish a relaxed and calming period style, while Linen White presents a heritage feel, effortlessly combining traditional styling and thoughtful details to great effect.

With clean Shaker lines, the range delivers a timeless feel and the units are available in three door colours – Linen White, Metro Grey and Matt Dark Grey – with an oak carcass finish. Completely transforming the look of a bathroom, Matt Dark Grey has been created from a carefully selected palette of deep hues to add a sense of drama.

With a simple approach to bathrooms, Tavistock expertly develops functional and stylish products, helping to create the perfect relaxing sanctuary in which to start, or end, your day.

After working with Tavistock for 14 years, the team continue to develop outstanding products and we are thrilled to have strengthened our portfolio with the addition of these two on-trend furniture ranges.

Danielle Lillis, Ideal Bathrooms’ Commercial Director

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

We are incredibly proud of our new ranges and have worked hard to develop the collections to ensure we’re providing the highest quality products, which not only look good, and offer great value. It is great that Ideal Bathrooms have taken this new range into stock and we have every confidence our fitted furniture will be a huge success in the market.

Alan Ayers, Tavistock’s Sales Director

Calm Presenting modern designs with a sleek and minimal aesthetic, the Calm range offers a variety of options for those seeking a contemporary-style bathroom. The units, comprising wall cabinets, a mirror, basin, floor, back to wall and full height units, are available in sizes between 200mm and 600mm.

Key information about Tavistock’s fitted furniture ranges: Latest ranges Legacy and Calm 180 products have been added to Ideal Bathrooms’ portfolio A variety of on-trend finishes to choose from 10-year guarantee on all furniture Tavistock’s new fitted furniture collections are available to order now from Ideal Bathrooms, with next day delivery available to 99% of the UK.

Bringing a feeling of indulgence into the bathroom, the minimal form of Calm Gloss White provides a polished look. Calm Gloss Grey offers clean lines and a refined silhouette, making it the go-to solution for smaller bathrooms, while the richness of Kona’s wood finish offers luxury and minimalism for all.

For more information about Ideal Bathrooms and to view the Tavistock range, visit www.idealbathrooms.com or call 0800 634 2600.

Calm’s slab-style doors, which are available in three finishes – Gloss White with a White carcass, Gloss Light Grey and Kona with a Graphite carcass - make for a fresh look.

Twitter: @idealbathrooms

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

SHOWCASING BAYSWATER Bayswater has been overwhelmingly well received since its launch last year and can now be found in 200 showrooms across the UK. Retailers have embraced the brand guidelines to create showstopping displays that help to showcase the brand – with and without the help of our design team. Bayswater offers a free design service to Ideal Bathrooms customers that makes it easier than ever to achieve a unique but on brand display space. They can recommend wall colours as well as wallpaper and panelling options and can even design a bespoke foamex board to suit your specifications. And if you would prefer to create the design in house then the Bayswater street signs and small accessories are the perfect finishing touch.

2 Door Basin Cabinet and Tall Boy Cabinet

We are so thrilled that Ideal Bathrooms customers have responded so positively to the Bayswater brand. We have been blown away by the variation and creativity of the new displays that we are seeing installed and it really reflects the ethos behind Bayswater W2.

Darren Allison, Managing Director of Bayswater Bathrooms

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

Expanding ranges

2 Door Basin Cabinet, Mirror Wall Cabinet & Leinster Double Ended Freestanding Bath

2 Door Basin Cabinet, Mirror Wall Cabinet

Bayswater have added to their beautiful furniture collection smaller 1000mm curved and square units to cater for smaller master bathroom suites – all available in their signature colours. To promote the new units, Bayswater recently collaborated with Divine Savages, a London-based designer, and paired them with their stand-out wallpaper. View the four striking roomsets they created at www.Houzz.co.uk and the full range at www.bayswaterbathrooms.co.uk.

For more information on Bayswater POS packs and display information contact your local ASM

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

FLOORING INDUSTRY GROWING AT A PACE IN THE BATHROOM SECTOR

Over the last few years the luxury vinyl (LVT) flooring industry has been growing at a pace, particularly in the bathroom sector. It’s a material that offers high design, easy installation and low maintenance. We’re seeing more and more retailers now viewing LVT as a real alternative to the jobs where they would have traditionally laid a tiled floor. LVT flooring offers excellent functionality, being waterproof and high performance, durable and scratch-resistant, making it ideal for many rooms throughout the home, not just the bathroom. The vinyl tiles are easy to clean and relatively sound absorbent so are much quieter underfoot than stone or hardwood equivalents as well as naturally warmer to the touch.

Development of LVT flooring Investment has been poured into developing LVT flooring to mirror the natural look of stones, woodgrains as well as ceramic patterns with realistic, tactile surface textures. Available in plank, tile and herringbone formats, luxury vinyl answers the call from consumers for quality, design-led products that work in contemporary and traditional spaces. Improvements to installation methods have also gone hand in hand with design development, leading to the quick and easy options of stick-down planks or ‘click’ tiles,

both of which can satisfy customer’s desire to DIY should they so wish. It goes without saying that they are faster and easier to lay than tiles and grout. The next development phase for luxury vinyl flooring is to ensure its compatibility with water-based underfloor heating (UFH) systems. As an energy and cost-efficient way of warming homes, UFH is increasingly being chosen by housebuilders and homeowners as the preferred method of bathroom spaces.

Features and performance Malmo have been conducting thorough in-house and external performance testing by independent body Exova BM TRADA of our LVT products with water-based UFH systems and they have successfully passed. This paves the way for greater flexibility of application and a new growth era for the product.

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

RUNNING HOT New Managing Director Ideal Bathrooms are delighted to welcome new Managing Director, David Gledhill to the team. With 17 years of experience as Managing Director for Graham the Plumber’s Merchant, we know the business is in very capable hands!

The Ideal Partnership

Malmo has also been tested against BS EN ISO 10140 and BS EN ISO 717 standards, which measure the reduction of transmitted impact noise and impact sound insulation of a floor covering in buildings and building elements. The awarding of R10 slip resistance, and the HSE preferred Pendulum PTV +36 slip resistance rating, is another reason why Malmo can be used with confidence for a wide variety of residential and commercial applications The Malmo™ Rigid vinyl flooring collection combines design flair, easy fitting and high performance. 17 fashionable tile and woodgrain designs are available, all with the benefits of a built-in underlay and the Välinge 5G installation system for a versatile and hardwearing range. All designs come in 5.5mm thickness with a rigid PVC waterproof core, backed by a 15-year domestic warranty and seven years for commercial applications. The advanced Välinge 5G locking installation system, with push down end joints for extra stability, makes Malmo™ Rigid fast and easy to fit. It is suitable for DIY enthusiasts as well as commercial contractors, even when working in an awkward or restricted space. The built-in 1mm underlay offers time and cost saving benefits, eliminating the need for separate installation. There are three Malmo™ Rigid families available, Tile, Wide Plank and Narrow Plank, all in a contemporary matt finish. The six organic Tile colours each create the look and feel of real tiling; Wide Plank features four sophisticated woodgrains that reflect the natural knots and grains of solid wood; and Narrow Plank includes seven realistic woodgrains from classic oak to on-trend greys. Malmo™ Rigid is the latest addition to the Malmo™ luxury vinyl flooring collection, which also includes the 18-strong stick-down range.

62%

Ideal Bathrooms has announced its exciting new brand partnership with RAK Ceramics. A global leader in its field RAK Ceramics are renowned for their contemporary and luxurious bathroom suites coupled with pioneering technology. A warm welcome to the Ideal team, we are looking forward to working with you

Game Changer The Women’s 2019 World Football has brought women in sport to the forefront this summer, showcasing female athletes in a way they have never been before! There are some major women’s sporting events in 2019 including Wimbledon, the Netball World Cup and the Women’s Ashes, cricket. #girlpower

Congratulations Congratulations to Tim Pestell and his team at Saniflo on their 40 years in the business

RUNNING COLD Where has the summer gone? The latest news from the Met Office is that the UK’s weather temperatures are “way below average” for the time of the year as it appears that British Summertime appears to be on hold for now.

of our customers sell Flooring

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

AN ORIENTAL CELEBRATION For companies spanning across the whole of the UK, 2018 was set out with an aim of reaching personal sales targets and becoming winners in our Race to The Orient.

In March, 190 excited winners went on the trip of a life time to Thailand to experience our first ever two destinations Race to… Bangkok and Koh Samui. Arriving at Bangkok to glorious sunshine our guests were treated to a brief history of Bangkok on their way to the prestigious 5* Peninsula Hotel which would be our base to explore the wonders Bangkok had to offer. First was a boat tour along the Chaophraya River to see some of best sights in the beautiful city of Bangkok including the famous Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. They both sparkled in the sunshine providing everyone with plenty of photo taking opportunities! This was followed by a fast paced Tuk-tuk tour zig-zagging through the streets of bustling Bangkok, led by a police escort.

Wat Arun ‘Temple of Dawn’

That evening, guests were transported on traditional Thai boats heading to our Welcome Dinner venue, the amazing Sala Rim Naam. Welcome drinks on the terrace were followed by Thai musicians complimenting this stunning traditional Thai restaurant, renowned for its world class food and entertainment. After our whistle stop 24 hours in the city, it was time to turn the speed down a notch and take a quick hop to the island of Koh Samui, staying at the fabulous Ritz Carlton Koh Samui Hotel. That night guests were treated to a second welcome dinner; this one taking the form of a Thai market. It was a really colourful evening, with different carts serving a variety of Thai street food. After a day of relaxation, we treated our VIP guests to a day out at the Angthong National Park. Eight speedboats jetted our guests across the sapphire seas, travelling towards this absolutely stunning national park. Highlights included snorkelling in crystal clear waters, relaxing on our own private beach and a hike to a viewing point over a pristine lagoon for the more adventurous. Then came…

Arriving at the Peninsula Hotel, Bangkok

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

Outside Peninsula Hotel, Bankok

An Oriental welcome Welcome dinner fun

Fan-tastic entertainment

River views

All aboard

A Thai feast Put ‘em up!

Police escort

Mario cart race to the Orient edition

Winner

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

High kicks

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

THE GREATEST SHOW The Greatest People. The Greatest Night. The whole evening was a colourful extravaganza beginning to the sound of circus music; stilt walkers, clowns and pretty girls posed for photos with our captivated guests. Then, as the sky turned darker, sparks flew, with a spellbinding fire show that lit up the sand and the glistening waters beyond.

The Ideal ‘Big Top’

What next? Guests made their way through the red curtain, past two magnificent golden elephants where they were entertained by acrobats performing faultless routines on hoops and lengths of shimmering silk.

Welcome entertainment

Then, the ladyboys took to the stage, with their world exclusive performance of ‘This Is Me’, created especially for our night. Next was an act labelled ‘The Sensational Singer’ and sensational she unquestionably was as we watched her breath-taking performance of ‘Never Enough’. Finally, our DJ closed the show with a spectacular selection of songs that people couldn’t help but get up and dance to; the party continued well into the night.

Welcome to the circus Mesmerizing acrobatics

A magical time was had by all celebrating success with lovely people in some of the most stunning of places. Thank you to our Race to the Orient winners, for continuing to work with us at Ideal Bathrooms and for bringing their fun, energy and laughter to Thailand. It was a few days no one will forget in a hurry! Thank you also to our sponsors, for their ongoing support of our races and for being such fabulous company on our Thai adventure.

A picturesque setting This is me!

Now, it’s time to look forward, to Dubai, the destination for our next Race to. If you have registered, good luck!! You could be there with us to enjoy the high life and the sunshine in the Emirates next March – it will come around sooner than you think!

Sparks were flying Lady Marmalade

‘Thank you’ from everyone at Ideal Bathrooms

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

Where your bathroom story begins Pause a moment and think about what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for in the perfect bathroom. Beautiful clean lines, effortlessly chic, contemporary styling. A stunning high-quality finish. And unbelievably good value.

New furniture ranges available now

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

HAPPY RETIREMENT RICHARD MARTIN

Following 15 successful years in the bathroom industry, Richard Martin, Cavalier Marketing Limited’s Commercial Director, is preparing for his retirement in August. We caught up with him to discuss his career highlights and plans for the future.

Q. Looking back on your career, what achievements are you most proud of? The biggest achievement of my working life has got to be becoming the National Sales Training Manager of Colgate-Palmolive at the age of 35; it was an incredibly exciting time for me as a young businessman. I’m thrilled to have been promoted to Commercial Director for Cavalier Marketing Limited and to work closely with the Managing Directors. I’ve developed some great friendships, including members of the Ideal team, many customers and other people from the industry.

Q. What would you say is the biggest change you have witnessed in the bathroom industry during your career? The race to the bottom. A vast number of companies are battling to offer the cheapest products and prices but it’s incredibly difficult to keep up with low prices, which is why we’ve seen so many businesses cease to trade.

Q. If you hadn’t joined the . 5 .bathroom industry, what do . 5 .you think you would have . 5 .done instead? I would have stayed in the fast moving consumer goods industry. It was by pure chance that I entered the bathroom world but I’m very grateful I did, as it’s a very people-focussed and friendly environment.

Q. What mantra have you lived your working life by? To be as honest as possible, without being unpleasant. I know it can be difficult sometimes to be blunt but diplomatic but it’s important to be truthful.

Q. You’ve worked closely with Ideal during your time at Cavalier Marketing Limited, how have you seen the company develop over the years?

Q. Do you have a favourite moment from your career?

The Ideal team are fantastic. They are professional and offer a huge amount of support to their suppliers. The company has stepped up its marketing and PR and they truly are in a league of their own.

When I worked at Nestlé as a sales representative, I was awarded Salesman of the Year after being at the company for a year. I attended a dinner and received the prize from the European Managing Director. It was a brilliant evening and that’s when I realised that being in sales was the right career for me.

Q. When you retire what do you plan to do with all your spare time? My wife and I would like to go travelling, we’re currently thinking about Australia and America. I also want to make sure I spend as much time with my family as I can, especially with my first grandchild, and I’ll join the local golf club.

Q. What’s the best piece of advice you would offer to anyone joining the industry now? Always remember this is a people industry.

People buy people first.

From all at Ideal Bathrooms, we wish Richard a very happy, well-deserved retirement and all the best for the future.

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

THE ONLY SHOWER PUMP YOU’LL EVER NEED

With bathroom renovations growing in popularity and many upgrading their bathroom but not their heating system, Salamander Pumps has introduced an innovative new shower pump to provide homeowners with the water pressure and shower experience they would expect from a new bathroom. Aiming to overcome the issue of homeowners splashing out on a stylish new bathroom, only to find that their new luxury shower doesn’t give the performance they desire, Salamander has developed a first-of-its-kind shower pump to ensure the renovations live up to expectations.

Easy to specify EVE is a new, twin-ended universal shower pump, that has adjustable pressure settings – making product selection really easy – if you have a gravity fed system (where there’s a hot water cylinder in the airing cupboard and a water tank in the loft) then EVE will work. The pump features a sensor which monitors water flow and detects any changes, it then varies the speed of its brushless motor in order to maintain constant pressure, no matter how many outlets in the home are open at any one time. It’s EVE’s variable speed motor that means that the pump can be set to 1.5 bar, 2.0 bar or 3.0 bar, depending on user preference. Not only this, EVE is the first pump on the market to fit into both positive and negative head situations, without the need for a pressure vessel. The technology within the pump makes specification of the pump extremely easy and means that there is no longer a need for installers or homeowners alike to have to carry out difficult specification. EVE is also suitable for replacing existing shower pump installations to improve performance.

Increase pressure with the touch of a button The design of EVE allows for home owners to swap between bar ratings at any moment with just the touch of a button, even after installation. Featuring a touch selection on the pump, the interface allows customers to increase or decrease the pressure as they wish.

This means that homeowners can increase the setting of the pump up to 3 bar when they want a higher-powered shower, and can equally bring the pressure down to 2 or 1.5 bar just as easily. For more information, visit www.salamanderpumps.co.uk/EVE

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

MAKING WAVES The latest trends, influencers and thoughts from the bathroom world... NIAGARA MATT BLACK The dramatic look of Niagara’s matt black taps is ideal for making a sophisticated bathroom an achievable dream.

MRS HINCH’S CLEANING TIPS Social media influencer Sophie Hinchliffe, aka Mrs Hinch, is a cleaning guru and her ‘wipe and pine’ method for maintaining toilets is incredibly popular. Just wash the pan with Cif Power and Shine wipes and then use Harpic Active Fresh Pine bleach to finish.

BLUE IS THE NEW GREY Be bold with blue! This invogue colour is starting to be seen on baths, basins and more, and can make a splash in any bathroom, adding a touch of character and sense of luxury.

ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS

ESSENTIAL SUPERMATT FINISH Bathrooms will look perfect for years to come thanks to the Supermatt, no-smudge finish on Essential Bathroom’s new Dakota and Colorado furniture ranges. Surface scratches and scuffs can be easily removed with a damp cloth and a hair dryer.

Bathrooms revolve around water and it’s up to manufactures to help our planet, to save and conserve energy. Innovation is key as we start to see more and more eco-friendly products hitting the UK market.

PAMPERED PETS According to research, it’s not uncommon to wash your pet in your bathroom at home – 22% of dog owners bathe their canines in the bath. We ran a Twitter poll and discovered 17% of respondents don’t wash their pets in the house, and of those that do, 52% use the bath while 24% prefer the shower and the remaining 7% opt for the basin!

ROCA LIFE For top tips and design inspiration visit Roca’s blog, Roca Life, which offers advice and ideas to help you enjoy the most personal space in the home. www.uk.roca.com/rocalife 40

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

DOC M COMPLIANCE FOR EVERY PROJECT ONLY WE HAVE

thisability

Doc M isn’t just about making buildings more accessible, it’s about helping people live their lives more easily. At Armitage Shanks we believe everyone should be treated equally. So we’ve created ready-made Doc M room packs and fittings with the practicality you need to comply with regulations and the quality, service and heritage you’d expect from us. Each design exceeds every standard and meets every approval, so you can be sure of full compliance. Just as you can be sure our experts will be on-hand to help you at every stage.

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A DRIVER

Find out how our delivery drivers spend their day With a fleet of 50 vans travelling the length and breadth of the country our delivery drivers are a key component of our service promise. Our drivers are skilled at handling fragile bathroom products and are our frontline workforce building key relationships with customers. We spent a day with Rob Tyson who has been with the business nearly 4 years and got his take on his daily routine including deliveries, collections, traffic jams and beard maintenance advice!

5.45am

4.30pm

Arrive at Depot, grab a coffee and confirm deliveries for the day

Back to the depot to finish paperwork and view my potential orders for tomorrow

5 1:00pm

Lunch and then I’m on a collection. We always try to get these sorted as quickly as possible

As a driver, your target is always to be with the most competitive team possible

Sebastian Vettel

3:00pm

DID YOU KNOW? We may not be Red Bull, but our head office is on the same road in Milton Keynes...That’s Ideal!

Final Delivery of the day. Another happy customer! Now to head back to the depot

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

ROB TYSON

We took a few minutes out of Rob’s day to get to know him outside of the van!

Q. How long have you been an idealist? I’ve been an Idealist for 3 years now. I previously worked for Cooper Callas before their unfortunate demise, doing a similar job to what I do now.

Q. What’s the best thing about your job?

6:00am

No two days are ever the same!

Carry out my van check ready to hit the road

Q. How do you keep your beard looking so magnificent while out on the road? I comb it regularly out on the road and use some beard wax to keep it tame!

Q. What’s in your lunchbox? In my lunchbox today, I have some porridge which I make into a drink I can have on the road in the morning and also some cooked chicken from the Morrisons hot counter!

8:00am

First delivery in Shrewsbury. Goods are inspected as they are offloaded from the van

Q. What’s on your driving playlist? I listen to the radio a lot. The stations I usually switch between daily are Classic FM, Talk Sport and Radio 4.

Q. You start you day very early - what gets you springing out of bed? I just purchased a VW California Ocean, so I’m looking forward to the next adventure!

Q. Describe Ideal Bathrooms in three words

Friendly, ambitious and reputable

Q. What was your first job? The first job I had was at a Butchers!

Q. Bath or shower? Shower always wins. I recently refurbished my bathroom with the wonderful stock at ideal Bathrooms and decided to take the plunge and remove the bath, so my only option is a shower!

Q. Which town/city do you love to visit & why? I prefer a beach, forest or some mountains!

11:00am

Delivery to one of my many regulars who have become friends rather than just customers

Q. What is the first thing you do after a long day out on the road? I like to play my Xbox to unwind after a busy day at work. My favourite game at the moment is Gems of War, but I also play Battlefield 5 and Black Ops 4.

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

Left to right: Paul Lucas and Jordan Southan

IN FOCUS... PAUL LUCAS BATHROOMS

Bayswater 2 Drawer/Curved Door Basin Cabinet & Mirror Wall Cabinet

After 25 years as a bathroom fitter, Paul Lucas decided to move into bathroom retail, and so, in 2014, he opened his Essex showroom. Here he talks about recent developments within the firm and the ingredients for a successful bathroom retail business. Q. How did you get into the bathroom industry? After leaving school, I started my working life in the building and refurbishing sector as a fitter. This led to me spending over 25 years as a bathroom and kitchen installer but when I turned 60, I decided I wanted a change and I opened my showroom; however, I’ve not stopped fitting as over 95% of our business is bathroom installation and good installers are like gold dust.

Q. If you could start over with the knowledge you have now, is there anything you would do differently? Loads of things! If I could go back in time and if I could have predicted Brexit and the current state of the economic climate, I wouldn’t have grown our team of installers from two to six.

Q. How do you stand out from the crowd? We offer the full service for our customers. They only need to

make one call to us, and we can provide the products and install the bathroom, without the need to bring in any other contractors.

Essential Nevada Basin Unit with Doors & Nevada BTW Unit

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

Q. Do you believe it’s important to showcase a variety of brands and products in your showroom? If so, why? I believe it depends on the salesman as to their preference for what’s in the showroom. I personally prefer to have a small selection of staple products in the showroom and instead I use brochures to show customers products, helping them visualise what the item could look like in their bathroom. Stands are incredibly important too, as they don’t take up a lot of space and can effectively show the quality of the materials, without having the full product on show.

Q. What do you like about working with Ideal? It’s a one-stop shop for bathrooms, offering everything we need, not to mention the brilliant team. Our Area Sales Manager, Jordan Southan, is fantastic and a real asset to Ideal. We have built a brilliant working relationship and he’s always at the other end of the phone should I need his advice.

Q. How do you feel Ideal Bathrooms supports you as a retailer? The Ideal team are always on hand to help and support the business. From offering guidance to supplying brochures and providing discounts on displays, everything they do really helps the company.

Niagara Tap Stand

Q. Do you use social media? If so, what’s your favourite platform for business? I use Facebook for the business. I like to try to encourage customers to leave reviews on the page and I often run adverts on the platform to help increase awareness.

Q. What are the ingredients for a successful bathroom retail business? The main ingredient has got to be customers. If you have a

good footfall, your team is approachable and have extensive knowledge, then you can’t go wrong.

Q. How have customer habits changed? Over the last five years we’ve seen a lot of changes.

When I first started the business there would only be ourselves quoting for a job, but now customers tend to seek advice from numerous retailers, which is why we work hard to ensure our service and products are of the highest quality so we stand out from the crowd.

Q. What’s the most challenging part of being a bathroom retailer? At the moment it’s the unpredictable seasons. With the

uncertainty of Brexit there aren’t any set busy periods of business.

Q. Help us settle our debate… should you wash your pet in the bath or shower? If I had to wash my cat it would be in the shower. We actually

built a bespoke shower room for a customer for their dogs so they could wash them after a walk!

Essential Shower Enclosure

Website: www.plbk.co.uk Facebook: @paullucasbathroomsandkitchens 0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

EXPERTS IN DOC M, SO YOU DON’T NEED TO BE

DOC M, short for Document M of the Building Regulations is about making public and commercial buildings more accessible to everyone, helping people with disabilities live their lives more easily. In washrooms, showers and toilets, that usually means ‘functional’. But at Armitage Shanks, we take a different approach. We believe everyone should be treated equally. So our experts have created a wide variety of DOC M packs (56 in total) and fittings with the practicality you need to comply with the regulations, the style to co-ordinate with any of our bathroom ranges and the unrivalled quality, service and heritage you’d expect from the UK’s most specified DOC M brand. You’ll even find luxury options suited to the most prestigious projects. Each pack exceeds every standard and meets every approval, so you can be sure of 100% compliance.

Ideal Bathrooms has increased its stock holding of Armitage Shanks DOC M products by

25% in 2019

What exactly is DOC M?

DOC M compliance made easy

A requirement of the 2010 Equality Act is “to make any reasonable adjustment to any physical feature which might put a disabled person at a substantial disadvantage compared to a nondisabled person.”

Compliance with DOC M not only requires specifically designed fittings and components, but also pre-determined room layouts which will offer users ease of use depending on the location and type of facility in question.

Document M of the Building Regulations covers access and use of buildings particularly with regard to disabled people.

With its unrivalled expertise in DOC M Armitage Shanks provides guidance on what is required when designing washroom, toilet and showering facilities, and in order to make compliance simpler we have created a broad range of ready-made solutions that cover the majority of DOC M regulations you are likely to come across. These one-code packs contain all the sanitary fixtures and fittings required for the installation along with layout drawings and fixing positions.

Public and commercial properties vary in purpose, design and size. By complying with DOC M, and its different elements building owners can ensure their washrooms are suitable for anyone who uses them, no matter what the nature of the building, or the disability

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news

All of the tailored solutions from Armitage Shanks have been created in line with the highest manufacturing standards. This means the accessible environments these products are installed in benefit from longterm durability, reducing maintenance and replacement costs for facilities managers. Products Take a look at some of the product detail to understand how they meet the recommended standards and provide the long term durability you would expect from Armitage Shanks:-

New for 2019

2019 DOC M campaign

Shower pack with exposed shower valve

In addition to new products the 2019 DOC M campaign includes a targeted specifier communication campaign and a complete refresh of marketing materials:-

For inclusive bathing areas we have recently introduced exposed shower packs designed for use on solid walls where there is no duct or panel recess. Easy to install these packs include a Contour 21+ TMV3 thermostatic valve featuring cool touch body, fast fix wall fixings and DOC M compliant, easy turn lever handles for those with dexterity problems.

DOC M compliance made easy brochure:-

Toilets Available in all WC variants. With the CC cistern, the tank incorporates a securing bolt, ensuring extra security, particularly with users who might use the toilet as a support when transferring from their wheelchair. Toilet seats come with specially designed lugs that make sure the seat doesn’t move and helps the user feel more secure.

•

Trade Doc M brochure – A5 brochure covering the basics on DOC M and ‑ bestselling options – perfect for trade counters & installers as an easy reference guide

Grab Rails These help users feel safe and secure when moving from a wheelchair or manoeuvring around a washroom. We test our grab rails to cope with up to 200kg of weight. This is in excess of the minimum weight requirements. We also use aluminium, an extremely robust and water-resistant metal, to create our grab rails as we want to ensure they last as long as possible in a potentially damper environment.

Red Rail DOC M packs Our DOC M packs have been helping users of all abilities across the UK for decades. However, due to recent research we’ve conducted, we’ve now enhanced them to include new red products. The colour is visually more distinctive than others, due to its innate properties. This means that users experiencing sight loss or dementia sufferers are more likely to see and recognise red solutions rather than other colours. Our easy to specify DOC M packages now include red toilet seats, grab rails, hinged arms, toilet roll holders and back rests.

• Red Rails brochure – A5 brochure focussing on the new DOC M packs with red rails and seats •

Doc M specification brochure – A comprehensive guide designed for estimators and specifiers providing full information about the legislation and directions on how to comply.

DOC M video - covering the DOC M story and range of products Point of Sales - Poster, Brochure holder (takes A5 brochures)

Basins When it comes to basin design, all Armitage Shanks’ DOC M packs come with left or right handed variants, rather than with centre tap holes. Ensuring all users find it easy to wash their hands while seated. Brassware Our DOC M packs incorporate TMV3 thermostatic anti-scald valves for safety and have sequential operation with a long lever which makes them incredibly easy to use for the majority of disabled people.

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

For more information about Armitage Shanks’ extensive DOC M offering, visit www.idealspec.co.uk

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

WHO IS... DARREN PAXFORD VitrA UK’s National Sales Manager Darren Paxford tells us about his career journey, passions and love of cricket and gin.

up on emails. Others I can be on the road visiting retailers, understanding their needs and gauging their views on the market – all of which is valuable insight into helping us do what we do. Throughout every working day, regardless of where I am, I’m always on hand to support my team, working together to help the organisation run smoothly – a priority that stems from VitrA’s core family values.

Q. You’ve spent two decades in your role at VitrA, how has the bathroom industry changed in that time? Tremendously! When I first started 23 years ago, nearly every bathroom had a basin and pedestal, now furniture is the main focus of a bathroom with pedestals fast becoming a thing of the past. Not to mention a simple thing we all take for granted nowadays, soft close seats, which were unheard of twenty years ago. Innovation is fast becoming the norm in the industry and if you’re not producing innovative products you’ll get left behind.

Q. How has your role developed over the years? When I joined, VitrA comprised of seven people, so we’ve always been a close-knit team that has been able to learn from each other. I’ve gained valuable skills and knowledge by working across almost every position and part of the business, which also brings an understanding of and an appreciation for all the tasks needed to get the job done.

The industry is fast-paced and exciting – what has been the most remarkable change that you’ve seen during your career? The speed in which innovation has become a standard requirement in the marketplace. As trends tend to repeat themselves, designs often look quite similar and that’s why creating groundbreaking products is key to standing out from the crowd.

Q. What do you like best about the bathroom industry? The people. I know it’s a cliché but the industry does revolve around people. The team behind me are awesome and getting everyone pulling together in the same direction to achieve our goals is very rewarding.

Q. What does VitrA have in the pipeline? We have some wonderful new, on trend designs hitting the UK market and one range I would like to mention is Valarte. This isn’t a traditional product but a hybrid between classic and contemporary and we have received great feedback on the collection.

Q. Who has had the biggest influence in your career? Levent Giray, Managing Director of VitrA. He prised me away from Travis Perkins with the vision that VitrA would be a major player within the UK market and we have now built a brand that is recognisable. He taught me that you get out of the job what you put in and at VitrA it has been a perfect partnership.

Every day is different which is why I love what I do. Some days I can be tied up in meetings, on phone calls or catching

Q. Do you have any pets? If so, do you wash him/her in the bath or shower? I have an 18-month-old cocker spaniel called Buddy. I wash him with a bucket of cold water in the garden, but my wife thinks it’s too cold so she puts him in the shower.

Q. What’s one bathroom product you couldn’t live without? A power shower! Life is fast-paced, and a great shower is just what you need to get the blood flowing and ready for the day when you have a busy schedule.

Q. How do you relax outside of work? My family is everything to me, so I tend to spend a lot of my spare time with them. I do also enjoy a game of golf. It is a few hours of peace and I just love it.

Q. What’s your guilty pleasure? Like many people a nice G&T. We have a great little gin parlour in our town with over 100 different gins. I like to think I have tried them all…

Q. If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

Q. Describe your typical working day.

and wonderful food. I once even tried raw lamb’s brain – although I wouldn’t try it again…

I haven’t yet visited the Far East; Vietnam fascinated me! I like to explore and experiment, especially with food. I’d probably be a good candidate for ‘I’m a Celebrity…’ as I’m always trying weird

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

YOUR LIFE. YOUR RULES.

YOUR SHOWER. YOUR TURN. GROHE GROHE SMARTCONTROL SMARTCONTROL

Turn Turn up up your your shower shower experience experience with grohe.co.uk with three three showers showers in in one. one. grohe.com grohe.com

The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM

DATE SPLASH (from left to right) Steph McGovern, Alan Dodds, Jay Phillips, Hansgrohe Managing Director and Andrew Davies, Taylist Media Managing Editor

INDUSTRY RECOGNITION FOR ROCA’S ALAN DODDS —

The year is flying by and there are plenty of exciting things happening across the industry! We’ve put together some key dates so you can carry on doing what you do best without worrying about missing a thing! JULY

Due to his hard work and dedication to the industry he works in, Alan was selected by the kbbreview editorial team as the winner of the Special Achievement Award. Alan joined as Managing Director of Roca in 1999 after working for numerous building products brands, and the company has achieved year-on-year growth under his guidance. During this time, Roca has emerged as a major player in the bathroom sector. kbbreview Managing Editor Andrew Davies said: “Alan has been an incredibly important figure in the last 20 years of the bathroom industry in the UK. Roca has become one of the leading companies in the sector in that time, and his personal touch has been instrumental in that achievement. “He’s managed to do it by building rock solid relationships across all areas of the market and, in the most positive way, he’s done it by being one of the nicest, most affable and reassuringly diplomatic leaders out there. His commitment to the wider success of the bathroom industry has been considerable and he has helped shape some of its most significant initiatives.” Congratulations on your well-deserved recognition Alan, from the Idealists!

Essential’s NEW furniture ranges launch Essentials new furniture ranges launch, with some exciting additions featuring on-trend colours & funky finishes, it’s not to be missed!

New edition of Trade Offers We wouldn’t want you to miss out on our latest batch of offers, only available to our trade customers. JULY

Alan Dodds, Managing Director of Roca UK, was recognised for his outstanding contribution to the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom industry at the 25th annual kbbreview Retail & Design Awards, where he received a prestigious accolade.

—

JULY

Compliment your mirror day Give yourself a compliment while getting ready in the morning and encourage staff and customers to do the same!

Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge

july

A group of walkers from Ideal Bathrooms, International Decorative Surfaces (IDS) and Neville Lumb, all part of the Saint-Gobain group, will set off on a 12-hour adventure to tackle the Yorkshire Three Peaks in aid of Barnardo’s. august

Bank Holiday A great opportunity to take advantage of many potential customers being off work and possibly looking to spend! And if you’re lucky enough to have the day off – enjoy.

International Day of Charity Guaranteed to be trending on social media, this is a brilliant opportunity to highlight any charity work that you are involved with and celebrate your chosen causes. sept

sept

100% Design at Olympia, London - September 18 - 21 The UK’s largest design trade show; the destination for architects and designers to source the latest products, discover new interior design trends and emerging brands.

Customer Service Week - October 7 - 11

oct

The perfect opportunity to shout about how you add value for your customers and deliver the best possible experience. MAY

UK Construction Week show, NEC, Birmingham October 8 - 10 Join over 2000 construction companies for a engaging and thought provoking event.

The Designer Kitchen & Bathroom awards - October 10

oct

Now in its 17th year, this prestigious event will celebrate residential kitchen and bathroom design projects and products in the UK and worldwide.

oct

Global Handwashing Day - October 15

Where better to wash your hands than in a stylish bathroom from your showroom?

World Toilet Day - November 19 An opportunity to get involved in a worldwide campaign to ensure that everyone has access to that basic human right; a functioning toilet. nov

nov

ek&bbusiness Awards & Review 2019 - November 28 An event celebrating another fantastic year in the industry and presenting the distinguished awards, plus entertainment and a delicious meal!

0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com

Taking Flight to a new level.

Minimalism is everything when it comes to the NEW Mira Flight Level trays range. With its 25mm depth and discrete waste, creating a wetroom aesthetic has never been easier. For more information visit our dedicated online Professional Zone at www.mirashowers.co.uk/professional

We are delighted to be partnering with RAK Ceramics - a global leader in its field. A contemporary, luxurious brand offering the ultimate in technology for bathroom suites. A comprehensive range comprising of sleek basins, furniture and sanitaryware have been added to our market leading portfolio, with the range being stocked in depth.

Now available at Ideal Bathrooms visit www.idealbathrooms.com to view the full range