Issue 32 | August 2021
THE IDEAL BATHROOM Essential information for bathroom retailers
Ideal Standard’s new Retail Collection is being brought to life... Find out more on page 16
NEW MONTANA FURNITURE
FEATURES: • Stylish and sleek • 2 textured colour finishes available • Pre-assembled units with ceramic basins included • Soft close doors & drawers • 10 year guarantee • essentialfromideal.com
Full range is available now, for more information please contact your ASM or visit essentialfromideal.com
WHAT’S INSIDE… WORKING WITH THE NEW NORMAL
4
THE BUZZ All the latest industry news in one place
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RAK CERAMICS Design-led bathroom inspiration from RAK Ceramics
10 IDEAL’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY
Take a trip down Ideal Bathrooms memory lane
Welcome to the Summer issue of The Ideal Bathroom magazine, with a look at what’s new in the bathroom world.
14 ESSENTIAL
It’s a very special year for us this year; 2021 marks our 40th anniversary, and we had lots of activities across the business to celebrate. We’ve also been catching up with our directors to find out more about their careers with Ideal Bathrooms, as well as getting them to share their visions for the next 40 years. Find out more about our 40 years of Ideal Bathrooms on pages 10-13.
16 IDEAL STANDARD
In such a special year for Ideal Bathrooms, we’re delighted to have added a number of new ranges to our portfolio, including the space and cost-saving Montana range to our Essential own-brand – see pages 14-15 for more details. To make sure we’ve plenty of room for all these new products, our Yorkshire depot has recently moved to a new site, giving us 20,000sq ft more space than our old site, as you’ll see on page 22. Prompted by Covid-19, we’ve also been taking a look at why retailers are upping their digital game over the next 12 months. A social media presence or a website is crucial to get brands’ names out there, pandemic or not, and we’re pleased to note that the majority of retailers are on board with digital trends. Read more on pages 33 and 34. We’ll also meet some of the faces behind the names in this edition as we catch up with Dave Barber of Ideal Standard in Who is… and chat to Adrian Lount, of York’s Bluewater Bathrooms in this edition’s Showroom Focus.
Happy reading!
Danielle Lillis Sales & Commercial Director
A spring in Essential’s step
Bringing Ideal Standard’s new design vision to life
20
SALES TEAM CHANGES TO SUIT YOU Sales team restructures to further benefit you
22 OUR NEW WAKEFIELD DEPOT Take a look at our NEW larger Wakefield depot
26 PANELSTYLE
Introducing the extended range from PanelStyle
28 GEBERIT
Victoria Thornley is Geberit’s new ambassador
33 THOUGHT LEADERSHIP Embracing digital
36
SHOWROOM FOCUS
38
WHO IS...
Bluewater Bathrooms share their story with us
Dave Barber, Managing Director of Ideal Standard
If you would like to contribute to The Ideal Bathroom please email Hayley.Acres@idealbathrooms.com 0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
THE BUZZ LATEST NEWS M I NI
FOR HYGIENE SOLUTIONS.
1
The Brand New Bayswater Website
New Hygiene BlueBook Mini launched Armitage Shanks has published the definitive guide to its hygiene solutions in the first of a series of Blue Book Minis. From taps and flushplates to WCs and urinals it’s full of information on how Armitage Shanks can help you pick the right products for your projects and offers advice on creating more hygienic washrooms. COVID-19 has put hygiene at the top of everyone’s agenda. This guide can help with support and advice on the regulations and how to meet them, as well as touch-free taps and flushes, and full solutions for healthcare environments. Hygiene solutions is the first of a series of Blue Book Minis to be launched in 2021 – Watch out for more to follow. For more information on Armitage Shanks visit idealbathrooms.com, where you can also download a copy of the new Hygiene BlueBook mini.
Bayswater W2 are very excited to announce the launch of their brand-new consumer website. The website has been completely reworked to improve the customer journey and provide inspirational content to homeowners as well as retailers. Expect to find trend articles, the latest company and product news as well as their product portfolio like you have never seen it before. “We knew we had to find a way to showcase our products in the right way, for example, where the customer can see how their Bayswater vanity unit will look like in all combinations. The new website aims to make it even easier for the buyer to find what they are looking for as well as any extras” says Sally Cutchie, Marketing Manager.
The new Bayswater W2 website has launched along with some beautiful new products, including some very special freestanding baths. Check out the new website at bayswaterbathrooms.co.uk
The Power in the Shower with Stuart Turner Putting the power in the shower with Stuart Turner, the ideal solution for improved shower performance. Pump specialist Stuart Turner have launched its NEW Showermate range of bathroom and shower pumps. “Our new Showermate range marks a great start to 2021. The previous range had grown over several years and it was time to bring them all together under one platform” says Richard Ballard, National Training Manager. The new design comes with all the quality and reliability associated with Stuart Turner and offers a high performing, shower pump. Available in 3 performance options; 1.5, 2.0 and 2.6 bar, universal, standard, twin or single models to choose from. As with all Stuart Turner products, Showermate is designed to be simple to install and is classified as ‘Quiet Operation’, anti-vibration feet are included in the design to reduce noise transmission further. The pumps are continuously rated, feature automatic switching and come with flexible 15mm x 205mm, push-fit anti-vibration hoses with ¾ BSP threaded connection to the pump. The new Showermate range carries a three year warranty and are available nationwide.
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New additions to Bayswater’s bath range In keeping Bayswater’s vision of bringing heritage bathrooms into the 21st century, the two new baths include a Slipper Boat Bath and Double Ended Boat Bath, styled with a new and unique plinth design. Bayswater boat baths are available in Gloss White as standard or can be hand painted to order in either Plummett Grey or Stiffkey Blue to complement the Bayswater furniture range. The painting process takes place in Bayswater’s own workshop by a highly trained artisan team of experts. Each bath is treated with care and painted with the optimum number of coats of specialist eggshell paint. The new baths are in stock at Ideal Bathrooms now. For more information, visit idealbathrooms.com
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
The new Dream Concealed Thermostatic Shower Mixer is here... Shower mixers are a huge opportunity to achieve success in the shower category, especially with major brands like Aqualisa that offer the product quality and added value service support levels that are such key factors when buying a shower. Right on cue, Aqualisa has introduced a new Dream concealed thermostatic shower mixer range, incorporating more style options and improved installation benefits. The new Dream range includes a single, dual and, for the first time, a triple outlet valve which provide different shower and bath fill combinations, depending on available space, family needs and, of course, personal preference. Contemporary square dials or a more classic round design, backed by an ultra-low profile wall plate can stylishly match any chosen brassware motif. Aqualisa’s marketing support will focus on new Dream as a ‘one valve’ shower and bath solution with a key campaign message of ‘Drench, Bathe, Spray’. Showroom POS includes striking graphic boards, en-suite displays and the high-quality range brochure. Contact your local ASM for more information on showroom POS.
Together World Tour Ideal Standard invite you to joint them on their Together World Tour, a series of events during 2021 which merge design, art and architecture. Taking a creative and thought-provoking approach, the first event, held digitally, in Milan in April encouraged attendees to consider the impact that interior design has on modern living. The event focused on Italian cultural influences on architecture and design. Berlin was the next stop in June. Showcasing the Extra basin collection, this event focused on the beautiful architecture, design and culture within the iconic German capital, Berlin. Local and international architects, Sir David Chipperfield, the founders of Studio GRAFT, Hartmut Dogerloh, general director and CEO of the Humboldt Forum Foundation, were guides around this vibrant city. The next stop on the Together World Tour is London on 22nd September, followed by appearances in Paris, Dubai and Shanghai. Each event will be streamed on the digital platform togetherworldtour.com, where viewers can watch past events, register for upcoming ones and also access exclusive, inspirational content around each destination of the journey, and the new collections.
A NEW Essential Brochure for 2021
OSMORE
BRASSWAR
NEW NEW
| Crisp
Wall Mono with Click Basin Mixer Clack Waste ET1004 | £182.62 5.6L/min
Basin Pillar Taps (Pair) ET1005 | £97.16
13.3L/min
NEW NEW NEW
Bath Pillar Taps (Pair) ET1006 | £113.54 14.4L/min
Mono Bath Mixer ET1007 | £149.83
14.4L/min
Mono Bath Filler ET1008 | £168.55
37.5L/min
E
NEW
NEW
Bath Shower Mixer ET1009 | £228.26 33.0L/min
Essential by Francis Pegler brassware includes more than 60 brassware options. Offering round, square or traditional designs, the collection offers something for every style of bathroom. Find out more about the new ranges on page 14.
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Flow restrictor
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Features: - Smooth, cur ved design - 2 colour options - Pre-assemble d
- Ceramic basins included with units
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- Soft close doors and drawers
Contem
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- 10 year gua rantee
Tall Unit Dark Grey £415.08 m | x D: 225m EF406DG x H: 1200 W: 350
Tall Unit White £415.08 Gloss 6WH | | EF40 225mm Tall Unit x H: 1200 x D: W: 350
y Dark Gre ite Gloss Wh
To order your copy of the brochure, login to your trade login or contact the sales office and quote ESS001. For more information on the full Essential Bathrooms range, visit essentialfromideal.co.uk
NEW
Tall Mono Basin Mixer with Click Clack ET1003 | £169.74 Waste 5.3L/min
5.3L/min
Essential Bathrooms new brochure for 2021 has been launched. The brochure features the full range including the new Spring 8 showers, Essential brassware by Francis Pegler and Montana Furniture.
The Spring 8 showering range is an extension of the current Essential Spring showering range and includes 16 new SKUs with 8mm toughened safety glass. Montana is an innovative range comprises 12 all-in-units, each combining a basin, storage and a flat surface, making it perfect for modern bathrooms and en-suites where space is at a premium. Montana is available two stylish finishes, painted white and urban grey. View the range on pages 22 of the Essential brochure
Cool | Clean
NEW
Basin Mixer with Click Clack Waste Mini | ET1001 | £92.47 5.3L/min Mono| ET1002 | £113.56
ls Bath Pane | £181.10 Dark Grey EF412DG £189.03 | Front | EF413DG 1700mm Front | £91.21 9DG | 1800mm End | EF40 DG | £99.14 700mm End | EF410 DG | £105.75 750mm End | EF411 plinth 800mm with 560mm H: 450/
ls Bath Pane | £181.10 White Gloss EF412WH £189.03 | Front | 1700mm EF413WH £91.26 Front | 9WH | 1800mm End | EF40 WH | £99.14 700mm End | EF410 WH | £105.75 750mm End | EF411 plinth 800mm m with 560m H: 450/
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36 | Visit
Mirror 56 Dark Grey 7DG | £166. | EF40 18mm 450mm x H: 600 x D: £166.56 W: 450 8DG | 18mm | EF40 600mm x H: 600 x D: W: 600
Mirror White £166.56 Gloss 7WH | | EF40 18mm 450mm x H: 600 x D: £166.56 W: 450 8WH | | EF40 318mm 600mm x H: 600 x D: W: 600
Panels e Bath L Shap | £189.03 Dark Grey EF414DG 1 Front | DG | £91.2 1700mm End | EF415 plinth 700mm with 560mm H: 450/
For suites see pages 4-21
For NEW brassware see pages 50-55
Panels e Bath 03 L ShapWhite WH | £189. Gloss | EF414 1 Front l WH | £91.2 1700mm End | EF415 plinth 700mm with 560mm H: 450/
Back-To-Wall Unit with
Ivy Back-To -Wall Pan, 60cm Visit Basin Unit essentia with 2 Drawer lfromide al.com for s, more 60cm Mirror and Tall Unit information
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THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
THE BUZZ LATEST NEWS
New contemporary collections from BAGNODESIGN
Volatility in the UK Tray market
BAGNODESIGN launched contemporary sanitaryware, stand-out furniture and sumptuous bathing to our collection at the beginning of 2021. The extension of our BAGNODESIGN range introduces a variety of colours and textures allowing you the creativity to design with top trends in mind. With Matt Black and Matt White sanitaryware you can create hotel inspired bathrooms – the Bagnotec stone Matt White bath is a showpiece for all styles, that is versatile to pair with any furniture range. Harlem Furniture delivers Industrial designs with the American Oak finish – complete with Matt Black handle for coordinating to Matt Black brassware and sanitaryware. Monroe furniture dazzles with drama offering metallic pizazz with shimmering Platinum or golden Oro Brushed Nickel or Lacquered Zanzibar brassware is a perfect pairing. Bagnodesign have introduced a lacquered finish to their famous Zanzibar brassware range to offer an extended warranty of 5 years with the new Lacquered Zanzibar finish. Visit idealbathrooms.com for more information.
MX Trays manufactures more than half a million shower trays annually. The last six months have seen an increase in raw material prices, never experienced before. Each week MX extrude between 28 and 30 tons of ABS granules, which makes up roughly 80% of the sheet requirement to make our trays. Currently ABS granules are in short supply globally which has not only slowed production, but also increased costs. Each tray also requires DCDP resin to complete and we use 9 tons per day. Our bulk storage tank holds 28 tons and needs refilling 3 times a week. This enables our production to make 110 trays per hour. Worldwide resin production and heavy cost increases further effected our manufacturing process. Industry has had to suffer Covid restrictions and Brexit, both of which has seriously affected costs and supply yet despite these serious problems MX has continued manufacturing and reduced its backlog of orders. We proudly point out all our range is still available, and it is the largest portfolio available supporting you. The last 6 months have proven extremely difficult for business and all MX employees have kept the supply chain going for our customers. We hope the raw materials market will begin to settle in the months ahead, and as the world slowly gets back to some form of normality, so will we. Visit idealbathrooms.com for more information.
New Armitage Shanks 2021 Commercial Solutions product guide – Now available Armitage Shanks, the UK’s expert provider of washroom solutions, has launched its new 2021 Commercial Solutions product guide, an easy to navigate catalogue full of insight on its latest washroom solutions for the trade. We have the solution – Whatever type of project you are working on, you can trust Armitage Shanks to have the right products – and be confident that they meet or in most cases exceed regulations. Focusing on the most popular and relevant products, the 90 page product guide was created by Armitage Shanks to help trade counter teams and installers quickly find the information they need to complete their projects. The guide 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. Produced in partnership with Ideal Bathrooms, the brochure usefully indicates the products that are available from stock at Ideal Bathrooms. Visit idealbathrooms.com where you can also download a copy of the new Commercial Solutions product guide.
6
COMMERCIALSOLUTIONS
FOR OUTSTANDING COMMERCIAL WASHROOMS.
PART OF THE IDEAL STANDARD GROUP
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
NEW July 2021 Ideal Bathrooms literature We are delighted to launch our July 2021 Price Guide, EDLP and our Q3 July-September iDeal offers publication. The July price guide has some exciting additions. Ideal Standard have launched their new Retail collection, Roca have launched new Gap furniture, BAGNODESIGN have a new laquered Zanibar finish on their brassware & Bayswater have added new baths. These are just a few of our exciting updates to our portfolio. For an overview of all changes, please refer to the product updates pages at the back of the Price Guide. Our new iDeals booklet features offers across from a range of our market leading brands, and several different product ranges, giving you the best value for money on your favourite products. As well as new iDeals offers, we also bring to you some additions to our EDLP offering. All EDLP products are listed in our Price guide under a newly created EDLP tab, making it easier for you to see what we have on EDLP. To order your copies of the literature, login to your trade login or contact the sales office to place your order.
And the winner is… The Malmo™ Senses Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring range has been named the overall winner at the Tomorrow’s Contract Floors Awards, scooping first place out of 50 finalists spanning the UK flooring sector. Malmo™ Senses was launched in 2019 to become one of the first rigid LVT ranges available in the UK to combine the look and feel of real wood with the technical hard-wearing properties of vinyl. Featuring excellent functionality including wear and R10 slip resistance, compatibility with underfloor heating and sound absorbency, Malmo™ Senses offers wide potential for use in the bathroom. Gail Alcock, Flooring Director for Malmo™, says: “We’re delighted that Malmo™ Senses, a relative newcomer to the LVT market, has been recognised by Tomorrow’s Contract Floors for its use of innovative registered embossed technology which has helped to revolutionise the vinyl flooring market.” Malmo™ Senses is part of the comprehensive Malmo™ LVT flooring range which offers 57 designs in plank, tile and herringbone formats across Rigid click and Stickdown installation options. Visit idealbathrooms.com for more information.
Introducing Sensorflow E: Easy to install touchless taps from Armitage Shanks Armitage Shanks has launched Sensorflow E, its new range of touchless brassware. The hygiene-led products have been designed to meet growing demand for hands-free washroom technology, and can be easily installed to replace existing fittings. Sensorflow E has a modern design and is the ideal choice when it comes to RMI projects and customers looking to quickly boost washroom cleanliness across their commercial premises. The range includes rim-mounted, wall-mounted and panel-mounted basin fittings. Installers can give their customers a choice between mains powered and battery powered versions, as well as models that allow for the water temperature to be adjusted manually. Sensorflow E taps incorporate narrow waterways to reduce the build-up of bacteria, and are perfect for offices, restaurants, education facilities and other public buildings. End-users also benefit from innovative water-saving technology, such as the 3.8 litres per minute flow straightener and automatic water shut-off.
Sensorflow E is the first of a number of new touchless fittings being introduced by Armitage Shanks. For more information, visit idealspec.co.uk
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
7
The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
DESIGN-LED BATHROOM INSPIRATION FROM RAK CERAMICS RAK Ceramics has everything needed to create dream bathrooms that are as big on luxury as they are on practicalities. From WCs and basins to baths, furniture and brassware, everything is taken care of to the very highest standards of quality, with design-led ranges that position the bathroom as a centrepiece of the home.
Form meets function with RAK-Des RAK-Des is a bathroom suite that features minimal lines for a sleek and streamlined finish. RAK-Des features a versatile range of bowls and freestanding washbasins, ensuring a solution for every bathroom. These can be combined with RAK-Joy vanities and RAK-Precious countertops for perfect harmony in the bathroom. With hidden fixations, the RAK-Des WC can be wall-hung or installed back-to-wall and features the latest in flushing technology for the ultimate in bathroom hygiene. Using just 4 litres for the full flush and 2.5 litres for the half flush, water usage is reduced by a third and with no rims to harbour germs, cleaning is quick, easy and more hygienic.
RAK-Des Wall Hung Wash Basin & RAK-Joy Wash Basin Unit in Urban Grey
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RAK-Des Wall Hung Wash Basin & RAK-Joy Wash Basin Unit in Moka Walnut
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
The 7 brassware ranges from RAK Ceramics
RAK-Petit is big on style in small bathrooms Created in collaboration with award-winning Italian designer Maurizio Scutellà, RAK-Petit is a collection of small washbasins for compact spaces, from cloakrooms and en-suites to small family bathrooms. The collection includes deep-based washbasins that can be installed alone or combined with RAK-Joy vanity units, as well as freestanding washbasins that are statement pieces in their own right.
Brassware styling on tap With brassware being an integral part of any bathroom design, as a major supplier in this market RAK Ceramics has recently introduced seven new ranges. With a solution for every installation and finishes to meet every design requirement the latest RAK Ceramics brassware ranges offer the opportunity to bring individual flair to this most personal of spaces. Each of the seven new ranges can be chosen in one of four finishes – Matt Black, Brushed Nickel, Brushed Gold and Polished Chrome.
RAK-Joy Uno Drop In Wash Basin in Urban Grey
Minimalist RAK-Joy Uno RAK-JOY Uno is the latest addition to the furniture range offered by RAK Ceramics. Functional, elegant, spacious and modular, RAK-Joy Uno is the natural evolution of the successful story of RAK-Joy. A minimalist design that will enhance the style of your bathroom, by giving you a one-drawer only contemporary solution.
RAK-Petit Round Wall Hung Basin Unit Left Ledge & RAK-Joy 400mm Wall Hung Basin Unit in Scandinavian Oak
Innovative, high-quality and with exceptional details, RAK-Joy Uno is available in 5 different finishes and is fully compatible with the washbasins, suitable for the existing RAK-Joy range, it can be combined with all the RAK Ceramics countertop solutions.
For more information about RAK Ceramics’ new ranges visit idealbathrooms.com or call 0800 634 2600.
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
9
The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
1981
Ideal Bathrooms was formed by Fowzi and Isaac Baroukh
1984
IDEAL BATHROOMS TURNS 40!
Ideal Bathrooms moved from a small shop to its first warehouse in Kingston Upon Thames
1989
Ideal Bathrooms opened a new warehouse in Milton Keynes
1994
Ideal Bathrooms opened a warehouse in Wakefield
2000
Ideal Bathrooms moved to Tilbrook, Milton Keynes
2003
Centralised Credit Control, Purchasing Ledger and Call Centre controlled from Milton Keynes
2005
Ideal Bathrooms acquired by Saint-Gobain
2007
Started our own brand Essential Bathrooms
2008
Ideal Bathrooms celebrated its 40th anniversary last month!
Warehouses relocate from Kingston Upon Thames to Hayes & 4th distribution centre acquired in Glasgow
2021 is the year Ideal Bathrooms turn 40! Over the past 40 years, we have continued to grow and provide a best in class service, whilst continually striving to improve in all aspects of the business. We wanted to look back to see how far we have come and share the key milestones we have had with you, as well as hearing from of our fantastic directors who have led the business to where it is today. To celebrate our 40th birthday, we had various activities in the month of July for our customers and staff. Turn to page 12 to read about these activities.
Kim Kirby-Earnshaw with Ideal’s Diamond Award for Health & Safety
Cultural activities at 18 Race To the Cape in 20
David Kilby, Managing Director
Kim Kirby-Earnshaw, Operations Director
Q. How does it feel to see the company reach its 40th birthday?
Q. What has been your favourite company highlight from the past 40 years?
Since the acquisition by Saint Gobain in 2005 we have been able to invest more in EHS and have achieved results by creating a safer working environment. The business has evolved so much over the last 40 years, meaning that we have been able to adapt to change and remain the market leader.
For our 30th Anniversary, we were able to hold a fantastic event at a monastery in Manchester and we’ve also had great success from the launch of the Race To initiatives, which has given us the opportunity to build and improve the relationships with our customers.
Our People, their commitment, dedication and passion for delivering the best they possibly can from all teams is also something I am greatly proud of.
Although I have only been involved with Ideal Bathrooms for the past 8 months, I know that we have built a solid reputation in the marketplace and that our business is well respected by customers and suppliers alike. This is the result of 40 years of hard work and I am very proud to be Managing Director at the time when we achieve this milestone.
Q. What can we expect to see from Ideal Bathrooms in the future?
10
Well we already have some exciting developments this year, with the new warehouse in Wakefield, a new Transport Management Software system being rolled out and some fabulous new product initiatives, so I am very confident that we will continue to grow and invest in the business. Here’s to the next 40 years!
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Danielle Lillis, Sales and Commercial Director
Activities on the beach at Race To Mauritiu s in 2016
2012 Achieved Millionaire Safety status - Ideal Bathrooms had 1 million hours without any work related incidents
2013
Diamond Award for Health & Safety achieved
2015
Launched our first Race To customer incentive
2016
Q. What has been your favourite company highlight from the past 40 years?
Performers at Race To The Orien t in 20
19
The Race to incentives are certainly a highlight that stands out to me, particularly in these still difficult times. It feels surreal to think we took hundreds of customers to destinations in the UAE, Mauritius, Thailand and South Africa. On reflection these memories seem even more special and I’m sure our customers feel the same.
2020
David Kilby joined Ideal Bathrooms as Managing Director
2021
Partnered with Virtual Worlds and launched our 40th Anniversary Rewards customer incentive
Q. Are there any key company achievements which have remained prominent in your mind?
Whilst on the topic of the Race To incentives, winning a B2B marketing award for our Race To campaign was a fantastic achievement for our team.
I also believe that a diverse management team is something to recognise, particularly as the bathroom industry still has a long way to go in attracting more women to the industry. Ideal Bathrooms is a stronger business, with a gender balanced team driving the vision and strategy for the future.
Acquired 25,000sqft Milton Keynes DC2 site
Q. Please can you tell us about your career journey with Ideal Bathrooms?
2017
Launch of our Market Leading Trade website
John Bagshaw was Ideal Bathrooms’ MD in 2009-2019. He is now solely Managing Director for International Decorative Surfaces
I actually started off as a supplier to Ideal Bathrooms and the then Managing Director Martin Carroll asked me to join Ideal Bathrooms as Commerical Director and the rest is history. It was a fantastic move for me, and I will always be thankful to Martin. I feel that it has helped that I had worked for a manufacturer prior to making the move to distribution as I have been at both ends of the scale and hope that has helped shape how we work to ensure the best results for our branded partners.
The first Race To event in 2015 where customers won a trip to Duba i
Steve Gillespie, Finance Director Q. Can you tell me how the business has evolved since it was established in 1981?
Q. How does it feel to see the company reach its 40th birthday?
Operational excellence has been a USP since the business was founded in 1981. The strategic locations and significant investment in our infrastructure has been critical to our success, as well as the investment in digitalisation and ensuring we are the market leader within our sector.
Q. Can you tell us about your career journey with Ideal Bathrooms?
I joined in 1990 in the newly created team of 2 Sales Co-ordinators and by 1995 I was promoted to Area Sales Manager. After this, I eventually changed to Branch Manager, then Commercial Manager before taking the role of Operations Director in 2008.
Being part of a company with longevity and sustained success over 40 years is something I am proud to be a small part of. Many businesses can have a few good years, but sustained performance is the true mark of a great business.
Q. What can we expect to see from Ideal Bathrooms in the future?
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
Ideal Bathrooms has a bright future and is in a great position to continue to lead in the market as the number 1 bathroom distributor, due to our continued longstanding partnerships with leading brands and exciting additions to come. With the great people we have working for Ideal Bathrooms, I can see only further success.
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
IDEAL BATHROOMS TURNS 40! To continue the celebrations of our 40th Birthday, we also gave more opportunities for customers to get involved and win some prizes.
Danielle Lillis, Sales and Commercial director says “It’s such a special year for Ideal Bathrooms turning 40, I’m grateful that we were able to include our loyal customers in our exciting birthday celebrations and I hope that we can continue our success for years to come”
Virtual game
Between Friday 16th July and Friday 30th July we had an exciting promotion running on our website for customers to get involved in. For all our customers that are registered for our trade website, we hid 400 birthday related images around the site for customers to find for the chance to win prosecco (a £10 Amazon voucher for customers in Scotland) or to be entered into a prize draw to win a 55” TV.
We recently partnered with Virtual Worlds to bring the Essential brand onto their platform. Following on from this partnership we worked with Virtual Worlds to launch our very own virtual reality game, offering retailers and merchants a unique experience and the chance to win prizes, to celebrate the partnership and our 40th birthday.
Firstly, customers were challenged to find 5 ‘Ruby’ balloons on the website and submit the SKUs they found them on via the claim form, to be entered into a prize draw to win a 55” TV!
Throughout July, entrants had 60 seconds to ‘sling shot’ as many Ideal Bathrooms balls into various items in an Essential bathroom. The top 3 scores had a chance of winning a price.
Secondly, customers had to find 10 standard birthday cake images on the website, and submit all 10 products via the claim form and prosecco would be on its way to those customers. In addition to these, for our 40th Anniversary Rewards program registered customers, we also doubled the boards they received, so for every £1,400 they spent with us, they received 2 boards instead of 1, doubling the chances to win prizes. We hope our customers enjoyed celebrating our 40th birthday with us.
SCORES: The top 3 on the leaderboard* of our virtual reality game. *Scores correct at time of print.
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1. LEE - 553
IES) PLUMBING SUPPL (THAMES VALLEY
2. JACK - 544
IES) PLUMBING SUPPL (THAMES VALLEY
3. JACK - 538 S) (BLISS BATHROOM
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Internal celebrations As part of our 40th Birthday celebrations, we ran various activities throughout the first two weeks of July for all staff across all depots to enjoy. Some of the activities included:
40,000 step challenge All staff were challenged to walk 40,000 steps per week (between Monday-Friday) to win a pack of prosecco to enjoy at the weekend. All staff had to do was post their step count onto Totem on the Friday to prove they made 40,000 steps that week!
Treasure hunt
Our new internal engagement app!
With a checklist of 40 items to find whilst out and about, staff had to find as many items as possible throughout the 2 week period. Items included a Santander bike, solar panels & a double decker bus. The items were grouped into 5 groups, group 1 being the easiest items to find and group 5 being the most difficult. The top 3 people with the highest amount of items found by Friday 16th July won a £25 Amazon voucher!
At Ideal Bathrooms we’re always looking at new ways to improve what we do and how we communicate internally to our hardworking staff is no different. Embracing digital technology is one of our core values and in line with this we have recently invested in Totem, a smart phone app which enables us to communicate to all staff in all areas of the business, across the whole of the UK. Our new Totem App allows us to communicate news, key business announcements and brand updates, while providing a simple to use platform to bring everyone together in a more informal social environment. Whether it’s a driver in Glasgow, a member of our sales office in Milton Keynes or Warehouse staff in Wakefield, everyone can be in the know! The response from Ideal Bathrooms employees has been extremely positive and we hope that Totem will help to streamline our business and boost collaboration across departments and depots improving our internal performance, allowing us to continue to give the best level of service possible to our customers.
Hayleigh Maxey with a Starship delivery robot in MK
Sian Harding found not 1, but 2 Santander bikes!
80s theme fancy dress Ideal Bathrooms was established in 1981, so to celebrate our 40th birthday the business will be having an 80’s theme fancy dress day. Here’s a blast from the past photo of our last 80s day!
Ideal Bathrooms 80s fancy dress day in 2015
Ideal Bathrooms Bake Off Who doesn’t love cake to celebrate a birthday? We will be challenging the staff at Ideal Bathrooms to bake a birthday cake for our 40th Birthday. Staff will vote for their favourite entry via our new Totem app so every depot can get involved! Keep an eye out in our next edition to see what delicious creations our staff create!
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
A SPRING IN ESSENTIAL’S STEP Essential Bathrooms continues to take the brand from strength to strength, with the launch of budget-friendly furniture, a new brassware range and an extension to its popular Spring collection. Essential Montana Following the successful introduction of Maine Furniture in 2019, Essential has now launched Montana, a one-stop solution for the smaller bathroom. The innovative range comprises 12 furniture units, each combining a basin, storage and a flat surface, making it perfect where space is at a premium. Montana is available in two finishes; Painted White for an air of tranquility, and Urban Grey, and it is available in widths of 1000mm, 1100mm and 1200mm, with a left or right-handed design. This new furniture collection features in our Everyday Low Prices booklet and in the back of the Price Guide. Essential Montana Basin Unit in Urban Grey
All units can be personalised with the new collection of Essential brassware by Francis Pegler, for a truly bespoke look in any bathroom.
Andrew Cotterill, Category Manager of Essential, said: “Montana offers real innovation for the smaller bathroom market, as we that know many consumers are looking for a full complement of storage, handwashing capabilities and flat surface space, all on a conservative budget.”
We are so excited to now have our products accessible on Virtual Worlds, especially when we see the effect it has on our retailers.
Andrew Cotterill, Category Manager of Essential
Essential Montana Basin Unit in Painted White
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THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Virtual Worlds Essential Bathrooms has gone virtual this year, with the entire range being added to the Virtual Worlds catalogue, enabling customers to see how an Essential bathroom would look in 3D and 4D.
Francis Pegler by Essential brassware Complementing all of our Essential range is the newly-launched range of Francis Pegler by Essential brassware. With more than 60 SKUs in the range with a 10-year guarantee, the collection offers something for every style of bathroom. The range of taps and showers are available in eight designs, offering a choice of sleek round styles, stylish square options and traditional designs. The range is available in two finishes; Chrome and Matt Black. Furthermore, all brassware is WRAS-approved and Unified Water Label rated. Andrew said: “We’re delighted to be able to bring the prestigious Francis Pegler name to the Essential brand. The range combines style with practicality. Products are designed, developed and manufactured using the best materials available, with stringent quality control standards to ensure outstanding reliability and the assurance of a long and robust working life.” To showcase the new collection, a freestanding tap display stand is now available which holds 10 Francis Pegler by Essential basin mixers in your showroom. For showrooms with limited space, consider a countertop display stand to display 6 Francis Pegler by Essential basin mixers. For further information about the display stands available, contact your local Area Sales Manager.
The full range of Essential products of over 600 SKUs were made available to view on the software from 21st June, allowing customers to use the products to design and display bays for their showrooms or their customers. The software also enables retailers to showcase more of the range than their showroom can hold. Andrew added: “We are so excited to now have our products accessible on Virtual Worlds, especially when we see the effect it has on our retailers. We’re delighted to be doing all we can to help retailers drive their sales and this software allows us to support them even further.” To celebrate the launch of the partnership, we are offering retailers a 40 per cent subsidy to those who sign up to the Virtual Worlds’ offering. Contact your local ASM to enquire for further details.
Francis Pegler by Essential Brassware Pisco Mini Basin Mixer
Virtual Worlds is an industry-standard CAD tool used to create 3D and 4D bathroom environments, giving customers the chance to immerse themselves in their chosen designs.
For more information about Essential’s new ranges visit essentialfromideal.com or call 0800 634 2600.
Spring 8 Spring 8 by Essential embraces the fundamental elements of the modern-day bathroom; offering an extensive range of exquisite shower enclosures, wetroom panels and bathscreens. The current Spring range has been extended with 16 new products all with 8mm toughened safety glass. Spring 8 is CE-approved and comes with Essential’s 10-year guarantee as standard.
We also launched our very own virtual reality game, offering retailers and merchants a unique experience and the chance to win prizes, to celebrate the partnership and our 40th birthday. Throughout July, entrants had 60 seconds to sling shot the Ideal Bathrooms balls into various items of an Essential bathroom to have the chance of winning a prize. Turn to page 12-13 to see who were the top 3 on the leaderboard! Essential Spring 8 Pivot Door Shower Enclosure
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
BRINGING IDEAL STANDARD’S NEW DESIGN VISION TO LIFE Tesi Vanity Basin & Unit in Silk Black
Ideal Standard has launched a renewed focus on design for 2021, led by its new Atelier and Retail collections, with exciting product lines announced throughout the next year via a unique series of events known as the Together World Tour. The fresh approach means that the Sottini brand will be absorbed into Ideal Standard in the retail market, although several key product lines will be transferred over to the new Retail Collection, part of Ideal Standard’s Bathroom Collections range. The new collections will be exclusive to retail showrooms, with preferential terms for those meeting the display criteria. The withdrawal of Sottini from the UK retail market will be complete by the end of 2021 and Ideal Standard and Ideal Bathrooms sales teams will be working with existing Sottini retailers to aid the transition over to the new collections. Ideal Bathrooms has now ceased distribution with Sottini.
Connect Air Cube Vessel Basin, Unit & Wall Hung WC
Danielle Lillis, Ideal Bathrooms’ Sales and Commercial Director, said: “We’re so excited by the culture of design and innovation running through all of Ideal Standard’s ranges this year. We’re delighted to be working with them to support customers through the transition from Sottini over to the new collections, giving them access to a more consolidated range with the choice and quality they have come to expect.”
The new Bathroom Collections range
Adapto Console & Base Unit with 1 Drawer in Light Brown Wood, Base Unit with 1 Drawer in Dark Wood
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Supported by a new brochure, The ‘Bathroom Collections’ retail range features some familiar Sottini products, given new names to reflect the brand’s refreshed vision. The collections also benefit from a range of supporting products, including Idealform Plus+ baths, ultra-flat trays, brassware and showering solutions, all available exclusively to retailers.
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Strada II Washbasin & Unit in Gloss White Connect EQ Vanity Basin & Unit in Dark Walnut
Key Suites within the Retail Collection
Key facts about Ideal Standard Retail Collection:
Connect Air The popular Ideal Standard Concept Air range is now known as Connect Air and joins the Retail collection. The versatile offering, created by Robin Levien, is weightless and works beautifully in modern bathrooms. Key pieces include a variety of basins and four types of WC, along with bathing and furniture options in five finishes.
Exclusive for retail showrooms
Strada II Fusaro is now known as Strada II, featuring geometric shapes and refined lines to create soft angles, and including a variety of vessel, vanity and semi-countertop basins in numerous size options. Complementing WCs, both wall-hung and back-to-wall, are also available.
Tesi Sottini’s Mavone has been absorbed into Tesi, featuring a range of vanity basins from 50 to 100cm wide along with one and twodrawer basin units and column units. The furniture is available in three finishes - gloss white, gloss light grey and matt dark taupe - with silk white and black finishes available soon for vanity basins and WCs.
New Silk Black finish available in selected ceramics and vanity units, brassware, showers, accessories, shower enclosures and screens Ideal Standard’s popular Concept Air is now known as Connect Air
Connect EQ The newer Caffaro and Rienza ranges join forces to create Connect EQ, a comprehensive ceramic and furniture suite in a stylish square design. Key pieces include a choice of WCs and washbasins, along with matching furniture in two lacquered and two wood finishes.
Sottini brand has been absorbed into the Retail Collection along with a range of supporting products from Ideal Standard
Adapto Adapto furniture, previously known as Ippari, is a modular furniture system that allows customers to personalise their space with tailored configurations. The extensive range comprises consoles along with basin, base and column units, all available in four finishes - gloss white, light wood, dark wood and grey stone. Meanwhile, the Adapto range of freestanding baths is the new collective name for the Cristolo, Rotaldo and Bormida ranges.
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
Danielle Lillis, Sales and Commerical Director at Ideal Bathrooms
We’re delighted to be working with Ideal Standard to support customers through the transition from Sottini over to the new collections, giving them access to a more consolidated range with the choice and quality they have come to expect.
Ideal Standard’s Together World Tour event
Cerafine O Basin Mixer in Silk Black
Coming soon - Silk Black
A refreshed Clerkenwell showroom
Black never goes out of fashion, and to further enhance the collection Ideal Standard has selected some of the most popular models from its portfolio to offer in Silk Black, including selected Tesi ceramics and vanity units, brassware, showers, accessories and shower enclosures. Products are also fitted with Ideal Standard’s most innovative technologies, such as the Firmflow cartridge and Aquablade flush technology.
To support with this new vision, Ideal Standard is opening the doors of its fully renovated Clerkenwell showroom. This new-look space will showcase the brand’s vision, as well as the Atelier Collection.
The Atelier Collections We’re delighted to reveal that the new Atelier Collections, by Palomba Serafini Associati, will be coming to Ideal Bathrooms in September. Taking centre stage, these striking new ranges feature pieces that strengthen the brand’s renewed design philosophy, looking back to its heritage while inspiring bathrooms of the future.
To find out more and how you can become a displaying partner, contact your Ideal Bathrooms area sales manager or Ideal Standard Regional retail sales manager.
Find out more about all of Ideal Standard’s NEW ranges at idealbathrooms.com or call 0800 634 2600.
Further product ranges will be introduced throughout Ideal Standard’s Together World Tour, events which merge design, art and architecture. The first event was held digitally in Milan in April, with the next stop being London on September 22nd, followed by appearances in Paris, Dubai and Shanghai. Each event, translated into four languages, will be streamed on the digital platform togetherworldtour.com, where viewers can watch past events, register for upcoming ones and also access exclusive, inspirational content around each destination of the journey, and the new collections.
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In addition to exclusive terms for retail showrooms meeting the display criteria, both the Bathroom Collections and Atelier Collections have a full support package. Stunning POS, finish samples and a Look Book featuring display configurations are just a few of the highlights.
Together World Tour
Showroom support
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
FOR HYGIENE THAT’S AHEAD OF THE CURVE.
SENSORFLOW E
TIME FOR TOUCHLESS. With hygiene standards higher than ever, touchless fittings are now an essential in any washroom. Our new Sensorflow E range allows you to replace existing fittings with minimum disruption and deliver the cleanliness that customers expect.
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
SALES TEAM CHANGES TO SUIT YOU As you know, customer service is our top priority here at Ideal, and we’re always looking for ways to improve and innovate. To do this, we’ve recently made some changes in our sales team, to ensure our customers continue to get the very best levels of service. We caught up with Sales and Commercial Director Danielle Lillis and our newly-appointed Southern Regional Sales Manager Steve Densham, who told us all about the changes and their new roles.
Danielle Lillis, Sales and Commercial Director Q. Congratulations again on your new role as Sales and Commercial Director! What are you looking forward to the most in your new role? I’m excited by the changes I have already implemented, such as the creation of two new roles – Regional Sales Managers for the North and South – which will enable us to be closer to our core customers. It’s also great that the appointment of Steve as the Regional Sales Manager in the South is an internal promotion; I’m passionate about career progression and think it’s important that talent is able to progress.
Q. There have been several structural changes within Ideal Bathrooms, can you tell us more about these changes and the reasons for them? Every business is continually evolving, even more so during the last 18 months, and Ideal Bathrooms is no different. The changes to the sales team made perfect sense - Sales & Marketing have always been linked and having both teams under the same leadership means our focus on customers is even stronger.
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Q. Will these developments within Ideal Bathrooms impact customers, and if so, how? We have a lot of changes on the horizon to shape the business through the next decade, so investing in our customer-facing team is critical. We have all embraced technology over the past year or so – I’m a huge fan of the advancements in digital but I know our industry will continue to thrive on developing human relationships. It’s a balancing act between the newer and more traditional ways of working, and we’ve invested in both sides!
Q. What have you learned through the pandemic? We can all feel very fortunate that our industry has been extremely resilient, especially in comparison to other sectors. However, this won’t always be the case, therefore I’ve learned to value your team - people count more than any business asset, so look after them through the tough times. For example, you can’t furlough a team one week and then expect them to work at 125% the next when sales volumes ramp up.
Sales & Marketing have always been intrinsically linked and both teams under the same leadership means our focus on the customer journey becomes stronger
Danielle Lillis, Sales and Commercial Director
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
SOUTHERN REGION AREA SALES MANAGERS
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
YOUR NEW SOUTH CENTRAL ASM
Steve Densham, Regional Sales Manager, Southern Region
South Central James Manuel: 07710 684099 james.manuel@ idealbathrooms.com
James Manuel joins Ideal Bathrooms with a wealth of experience and knowledge obtained while working as a showroom manager within the Grafton group and most recently with Wirquin as key account manager covering the South Central area of England.
Q. Congratulations on your appointment as Southern Regional Sales Manager. How does it feel? I am thrilled to be working alongside a great Ideal Bathrooms Southern team. The team has great camaraderie and I’m looking forward to continuing to forge many positive relationships, as well as working together to give our customers the very best service.
South East London Jordan Southan:
West Midlands Charlotte Jefferies:
07824 604899 jordan.southan@ idealbathrooms.com
07789 696578 charlotte.jefferies@ idealbathrooms.com
South West George Mclelland:
North West London Gary Pusey:
07702 723145 george.mclelland@ idealbathrooms.com
07771 782571 gary.pusey@ idealbathrooms.com
Q. What are you most looking forward to getting stuck into in your new position? I’m really looking forward to travelling around the region – from central London to the rural South West, I’ll be able to build relationships with our existing customers, as well as bringing new ones on board. I’m also excited about the opportunity to share my years of industry experience with the rest of the team, as well as learning from their customers. With the industry always changing, the best place to understand the next trend is inside our customers’ businesses.
Q. You have been an Area Sales Manager for many years but how do you hope your new role will help to support your team? We already have a very strong team in place in the Southern region, and so my role will be to support them and their customers on a day-to-day basis. This will include helping with planning their days, offering support with joint customer meetings and encouraging them to think and act in a more entrepreneurial way – taking the initiative, coming up with fresh ideas and always innovating. I will also be able to act as a single point of contact for both team members and our customers in the Southern region.
Q. How will your new position benefit bathroom retailers and merchants? I think the biggest benefit for our retailers will be having more regular face-to-face contact with a member of the Ideal Bathrooms team. I will be visiting our customers across the region daily, both in conjunction with their local area sales manager and on an individual basis.
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
UK map showing ASM areas by post code
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
WAKEFIELD DEPOT DRIVING THE NORTH But don’t just take our word for it; we’ve spoken with some of our dedicated Wakefield staff about the move and what this means to Ideal Bathrooms. Driver David Newton said: “It’s very exciting for the future, especially being able to utilise all the extra space for more stock. To see such significant investment in the North, particularly after a year of such disruption thanks to the pandemic, is a real testament to the company’s growth. I’ve worked for Ideal for 26 years and this latest move is just in keeping with the way I’ve seen the company adapt and develop over that time.”
The sites reopened in May 2020, with a number of measures introduced to ensure our teams’ safety, including limiting the workforce on site, the creation of one-way routes in all warehouses and offices, the introduction of sanitiser stations and provision of PPE.
All this extra room - 20,000ft of it - will allow us to continue to develop and honour our next-day delivery promise on a wider range of items for our Northern customers. The move is especially welcome after a year in which we were forced to close our four UK distribution centres, after the coronavirus lockdown came into force.
Warehouse Supervisor Neil Young is also grateful for the extra room. “The move has been challenging but it will be worth it in the long term, as we’ll have the ability to hold a bigger stockholding. This means we’ll be able to, more often than not, meet customers’ needs straight away without having to wait from stock from other branches. The commitment to the new location has also given us a sense of security after the uncertainty of the pandemic.”
This year has been an exciting one for Ideal Bathrooms, not least because we’ve moved our Wakefield warehouse to a new 45,000sq ft location.
Shane Cooper, transport lead at the Wakefield depot, added: “I can’t wait to utilise the new space and provide more stock for customers, all of which means that Ideal Bathrooms can continue to grow. We were running out of room in the old site, so it’s great to have this new warehouse to ensure that we can continue to provide great customer service to our customers.”
The new Wakefield warehouse features LED lighting throughout, which creates an improved working environment for staff and allows us to reduce our energy consumption. Our teams will also benefit from improved facilities, five dock-level loading doors for the safe unloading of containers and improved world-class manual handling equipment.
I can’t wait to utilise the new space and provide more stock for customers, it’ll mean that Ideal Bathrooms can continue to grow.
Shane Cooper, Transport lead at Ideal Bathrooms Wakefield depot
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Bathroom Collections
A JOURNEY OF UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS REGISTER NOW TOGETHERWORLDTOUR.COM
The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
THE NEW GAP A MODERN BATHROOM FURNITURE CHOICE FROM ROCA Renowned for its contemporary and functional style, The New Gap range is specifically designed to optimise the bathroom space. For practical and customisable bathroom furniture, discover the new possibilities The New Gap has to offer. Designed for a wide range of different users, The New Gap furniture offers a contemporary and varied combination of shapes, finishes and dimensions with Roca’s outstanding level of quality, comfort and resistance.
The New Gap Basin Unit in Gloss White
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Wide range of models to choose from Whether it’s a compact vanity for a small bathroom that is needed, or a family model that meets the storage needs of several people, The New Gap offers an extensive range with 31 different models. There are no less than 24 options of base units with basins available and 7 alternatives of vanity units with over countertop basins to choose from.
Finishing touches To meet the needs of modern bathroom designs, The New Gap offers real versatility with different finishes to suit a wide range of preferences and decor. Available in an extensive range of colour choices including Gloss White, Anthracite Grey, Arctic Grey, Nordic Ash and textured City Oak, the look can be perfectly finished with a handle in Matt Nickel or in Gloss Aluminium to complete the look.
The New Gap Basin Unit in Gloss White
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Roca are active in 170 markets Over 20 brands within Group
Key facts about Roca:
Manufacturer of over 35 million ceramic products and 6.5 million brassware pieces annually Existing for over 100 years
The Gap CC Pan and The Gap Back-To-Wall Bidet
Different dimensions to suit all bathroom spaces The New Gap range offers cabinets with a width ranging from 500mm to 1200mm, so the right dimension can easily be found for every bathroom space. There is a choice of a standard depth of 460mm or a compact version with a reduced depth of 380mm. Designed to make storage easier regardless of the available space, the lower drawers of The New Gap are also higher than conventional ones, allowing users to store bulkier objects and make the most of their capacity.
Configurations for every preference In order to adapt to the needs and preferences of every person or household, The New Gap range offers the choice of different storage configurations and ways of installing the basin. Customise the cabinet with two or three drawers or by combining drawers and one side door. Homeowners can choose from an over countertop basin or a Unik vanity version, with the option of placing the bowl in the centre, on the right or left hand side or even have two bowls. Due to its great versatility, The New Gap bathroom vanity is compatible with Roca over countertop basins, both in vitreous china and in Roca’s innovative Fineceramic®.
Accessories for easy storage
Find out more about The New Gap at idealbathrooms.com or call 0800 634 2600.
To make it even more practical, The New Gap bathroom cabinet can be finished with accessories such as a side towel rail or convenient organising boxes that make storage in drawers easier. Finally, for those homes that need additional storage space, The New Gap base unit can be complemented with a 1500mm high column unit featuring two folding doors in a modern and extremely functional ensemble.
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
The New Gap Basin Unit in Nordic Ash
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
PANELSTYLE LAUNCHES NEW LOOK BROCHURE TO SHOWCASE EXTENDED RANGE The PanelStyle portfolio comprises Splashpanel waterproof wall panelling, Proplas panelling and the Proplas Tile range
The PanelStyle PVC wall and ceiling panelling collection has launched a new look brochure to reflect the addition of two new ranges and a total of 13 new decors, which offer an attractive, cost effective alternative to tiles, paint or wallpaper.
The PanelStyle collection is 100% waterproof, quick and easy to fit and comes in a range of thicknesses to suit every budget - and with so many designs to choose from, it’s the perfect solution for any bathroom. All formats of these hygienic wipe-clean surfaces carry a five year warranty and can be recycled at any local recycling facility.
The 40 page brochure showcases the full PanelStyle collection which includes a total of 60 decors across its Splashpanel, Proplas and Proplas Tile ranges. It features inspirational lifestyle photography, and new foldout 3 page overview of all PanelStyle designs, a handy key highlighting the benefits of each of the ranges and technical information. It also features larger format panels on the décor pages to aid with consumer selection. The brochure also reflects the expansion of the PanelStyle offer with the addition of a Premium design collection into Splashpanel, as well as extensions of the popular Metro Tile designs and brandnew Textured decors within the Proplas range. Splashpanel Premium is a collection of exclusive designs that replicate natural materials such as marble, stone and quartz, offering a choice of gloss or contemporary matt finish. The colour palette is in keeping with the ever increasing grey trend, ranging from the white of Calacatta Marble right through to Pietra Anthracite. Last year’s introduction to the Proplas Tile range of Metro Tile in white recreated the popular Subway Tile design look with no grout lines to clean and faster installation compared to ceramics, is now being updated with two new colour options, Light Grey (pictured) and Dark Grey. Aimed to mimic the look and feel of tiles without the time consuming installation and upkeep of individual tiles, it makes them the perfect choice for any bathroom.
Splashpanel Premium - Calacatta Marble Gloss
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THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Proplas Tile - Light Grey Metro Tile Proplas panelling is also getting an update in the form of an additional 4m length option in popular White Matt, as well as the introduction of a textured range which boasts three on-trend mosaic designs in a matt textured finish. Note all of these new panels measure 250mm wide and are suitable for walls and ceilings. Steph Harris, Product Manager for PanelStyle, says: “The eyecatching new PanelStyle brochure effectively showcases the vast design scope of the newly enhanced range and highlights the many benefits of the waterproof and hygienic PVC wall and ceiling panels. It will act as an effective sales platform for retailers while supporting consumers with their decision making.” The new brochure is part of a wider PanelStyle rebrand which will also include an updated website and new marketing and point of sale materials. Backed by a five-year domestic use warranty, PanelStyle products are 100% waterproof, low maintenance and offer hassle-free, fast installation with no wet trades required. They can be fixed over existing surfaces like tiles, making refurbishment or renovation projects fast and easy.
Find out more about PanelStyle’s ranges at idealbathrooms.com or call 0800 634 2600.
Splashpanel Premium - Quartz Stone Gloss
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
NEW AMBASSADOR FOR GEBERIT Victoria Thornley, Olympic Silver Medallist and European Rowing Championship, is the new ambassador for the Geberit AquaClean. In the lead up to the Olympics, we’ve sat down with Victoria Thornley and discussed how the bathroom provides a sanctuary for her rest and recuperation whilst training. She discusses her top three considerations when deciding on a new bathroom and her favourite Geberit product.
Q. What are your top 3 key considerations when deciding on a new bathroom, and why? 1. Use of space. Bathrooms can often be the smallest rooms in a house so making use of the space with a good idea of the design and function is important. I would definitely say technology is a huge part of a good bathroom, how it works sleekly is very important and the style that goes alongside that is key. 2. How I want to feel when I spend time in my bathroom. For me it is more than just function, it is somewhere I wish to spend time relaxing. This would determine what products I installed, as well as the layout. The lighting is important to aid this, so nice bright lights in the morning and then softer lighting in the evening to relax. 3. The colour, ambience and theme. The wall colour and tiles are a key part for designing a bathroom for me. They are what finish off the whole room. They must be well thought out and finished perfectly. I also quite like some plants within the bathroom and things like that, it just helps to create a feeling of serenity.
Geberit Monolith
Q. What is your favourite Geberit product and why?
My favourite Geberit product is the AquaClean shower toilet and I definitely think my favourite feature of it is the heated seat – I spend a lot of time training in the winter and it’s really cold and icy outside, so it’s very welcoming to come in after a cold water session to use the toilet with a heated seat.
The Geberit AquaClean toilet remote is great at simplifying my bathroom routine, it’s really easy to use and that technology I take as importantly in my rowing as well, it’s about the marginal gains every day in my performance, so technology plays a key part in my life.
Sleep is a really important part of my training because it helps me recover but often in the night I do get up to go to the toilet due to having to try and be hydrated all the time, so when I go to the toilet the orientation light of the Geberit AquaClean shower toilet is really helpful in helping me to get the toilet safely but then also it doesn’t wake me up too much in the process.
The Geberit Monolith is fantastic too. There is flexibility in its design and function. While maintaining the Geberit clean lines design, it enables you to fit a Geberit toilet in your bathroom without disturbing the existing wall. It also comes in different colours so you can match it to the style and theme of your bathroom.
Geberit AquaClean
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0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
EXCEPTIONALLY BRILLIANT GEBERIT AQUACLEAN. THE SHOWER TOILET.
Experience a completely new feeling of freshness and cleanliness with Geberit Aquaclean Mera: the shower toilet that cleans you with a jet of warm water at the touch of a button. Additional information regarding the versatile shower toilet models at www.geberit-aquaclean.co.uk WHIRLSPRAY SHOWER TECHNOLOGY
AUTOMATIC WC LID
RIMLESS CERAMIC PAN WITH TURBOFLUSH
SEAT HEATING
The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
How are we doing in 2021?
LETS GET DIGITAL
We have had
over
13,000
The 2021 Ideal website update
orders through our
quick order form
We have had over
50,000
searches
product stock through our
stock check tool
As the world begins to open back up, digital technology and online ordering continues to be ever more important. Our 2020 Industry Report showed that whilst word of mouth is the most popular method of acquiring business, having a functioning and user-friendly website is the second most popular method. We strive to ensure our website is as up to date and user friendly to give you the best customer experience from start to finish.
As our website is
24/7 capable,
We know how important it is to provide you with as much information as possible to make sure you get the most out of your time. 2021 will hopefully be the year we can get back to normality, so we wanted to share with you our plans for the year ahead and give you an overview of our successes so far.
1498
out of hours orders have been placed
The website features over
20,000
MOST POPULAR FUNCTIONS USED ON OUR WEBSITE
products with
fully enriched
data
79% Stock check
View invoices
Product information
Contact details
Online ordering
Showroom profile
Literature download
Contracts form
2311
Quick order form
45% 38%
registered customers
now have full access to all of our great features online, including our
14%
30
12%
12%
showroom locator
8%
3%
2%
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
SEE HOW EASY IT IS TO USE OUR STOCK CHECK TOOL
Coming soon in 2021 Ideal bathrooms 40th Anniversary We had some fantastic 40th anniversary celebrations that you got involved in on our website in July! Firstly, we challenged customers to find 5 ‘Ruby’ balloons on the website and submit the SKUs they found them on via the claim form, to be entered into a prize draw to win a 55” TV!
Start typing a sku from our big yellow Price Guide into our quick stock check tool
Secondly, customers had to find and submit 10 standard birthday cake images on the website via the claim form to receive a bottle of prosecco .
Route Planning software We will be integrating our new 121 route planning software on our website, allowing you the ability to view EPOD’s and track your orders at the push of a button through your trade login.
Website Refresh Look out for a fresh new look on our website coming this year! We strive to make our website simple to navigate and up to date with the latest trends, so watch this space!
Intelligent search will give suggestions based on the initial characters typed
Swatches We will be working on getting colour swatches added on our website, starting with our Essential own brand products and eventually rolling out through all of our other brands. This will allow you to select different colour swatches for each products easily, without having to retype a product code.
Once you have selected a product code, you can see how many are in stock
Don’t have a trade login? 62% of our customers are already benefitting from the website, and you could be too!
Visit
register.idealbathrooms.com
View depots to see a breakdown of how much stock is in each depot
or scan the QR code below
When product is selected, click on ‘view product’ to register for your free online account today
The Ideal Bathrooms website is super simple and by far the easiest to navigate of all our supplier’s websites
On the product page, you can view all of our in-depth product data
Martin, h2o Bathroom Design Co. 0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
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P L ED NOW EVEN MORE EVERYDAY LOW PRICES Keep an eye out for our extended Everyday Low Prices (EDLP) sections. 100s of great value products from your favourite brands available to you anytime. EDLP are simple nett priced products, highlighted in a separate section in The Big Yellow Price Guide. These products are easily identifiable by the yellow page header and new EDLP icon. EDLP Products are now available for:
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THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
EMBRACING DIGITAL: WHY BATHROOM RETAILERS NEED TO FACE THE FUTURE It could be argued that the digital revolution has been ongoing for decades, but one thing is for certain – 2020 was the year it truly came into its own.
95%
As the world locked down and stayed in, for many businesses (and people) the only way to continue working and socialising was virtually. From Zoom meetings and online audiences to test and trace apps and e-commerce, for much of the past 12 months, if you couldn’t do it online, you couldn’t do it at all.
of respondents have a company website 1% on last year
be used for 5% can online purchasing 2% on last year
With more and more consumers choosing to browse online even before the pandemic, this all goes to highlight why it is imperative that bathroom retailers and merchants make their presence felt. Earlier this year, Alex Ainge, Managing Director of Compusoft, considered the future of bathroom retail in a piece for KBB Review, coming to the conclusion that it did, indeed, need to be digital. He wrote: “Retailers have had to be inventive to attract potential clients. From online appointments and virtual showroom tours to connecting on other online platforms, retailers’ determination and creativity has been great. “And while, at some point in the future, things may go back to how we remember before the pandemic hit, there is also a chance that some of the changes brought about by Coronavirus, might stay with us for the long term. If this is the case, how do we adapt to the ‘new normal’ and continue to thrive?”
To be seen According to our 2020 Industry Report, while 95% of respondents had a website, only 5% of those could be used to make online orders. That’s because, particularly in pre-pandemic times, a website is a key way for potential customers to find out about businesses. Social networks are a fantastic way of boosting business, however as we get more digitally savvy, there are many more tools that can be used. A website gives off a far more professional image, tailored, with your own branding and fuller details of what you offer. It can also be used to add value to your brand, with longer-form content such as blogs on bathroom trends, testimonials and case studies to add weight to your expertise.
Feeding social That’s not to say social media isn’t important; it is, and in 2021, we would argue that a presence on at least one platform is vital.
Virtual meetings are taking place instead of face-to-face
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
61%
of respondents have increased their use of digital technology during lockdown
Sites such as Facebook and Instagram offer a direct route to your customers, as well as an interactive space to communicate and spread awareness. Customers can interact with you in real-time, asking questions and, most importantly, leaving feedback. Being open in this way and encouraging customers to interact with you is also a valuable way of creating a sense of trust and openness for your business. You can also use your social media feed to link back to your website, sending much-needed traffic to it which will boost your SEO rankings to help you appear further up in Google search results.
Virtual Showroom options from Virtual Worlds
Buy, buy, buy While most of our Industry Report respondents had a website (95%) and a social media presence (91%), there was one aspect in which many were lagging behind – e-commerce. And, while bathroom products may not lend itself to online retail in the same way as clothing or toiletries, we believe e-tail is the next digital revolution the industry needs to get behind. Our research found that nearly 60% of bathroom retailers made none of their sales online, although it will be interesting to see how this figure changes as we adapt to new ways of working and shopping.
the digital technology respondents invested in in 2020 31%
And, beyond the impacts of the pandemic, an e-commerce site can open up a whole new market for retailers. No longer limited to those who can travel to a showroom to make an in-store purchase, online sales mean the country is your oyster. The world has become digitised, and the pandemic has only heightened the effect.
28%
To keep up with competitors and consumers, it’s important that bathroom retailers are not left behind when it comes to moving forward.
18%
Key facts from the 2020 Ideal Industry Report: While 95% of retailers have a website, most of them still aren’t using it to make sales
Social media use is popular with more than 90% of retailers having a presence on at least one platform
Confidence across the industry remains high, despite the pandemic
Other
Internal System Improvements
Social Media
6%
Online meetings
Transactional website
Informational website
6%
12%
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0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
The silent floor.
pure. This ultra-quiet floor reduces sound by 50% in comparison to other vinyl floors on the market. It’s also super easy to install, thanks to the innovative DreamClick® locking system – all you need is a Stanley knife! DreamClick® allows you to get creative by mixing and matching different wood and stone looks, planks, and tiles. Determine your own style with this water-resistant, temperature-friendly, and easy-to-clean floor that’s ideal for all spaces. For further information or to place an order please contact your Ideal Bathrooms ASM.
sssh floor
lightweight & rigid
DreamClick®
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com www.berryalloc.com
lifetime residential warranty
vinyl planks & tiles.35
The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
IN FOCUS... BLUEWATER BATHROOMS Left to right: Adrian Lount, Dominic Rogerson, Andrew Shepherd, Anthony Hewson (ASM), Paul Lount, Mark Robinson
Bluewater Bathrooms is a York-based bathroom supplier and installer. We spoke to Adrian Lount, who runs the business with fellow director Peter Reynolds, about how he got started – and what he thinks the future holds. Q. How and when did you get into the bathroom industry?
I started working as an apprentice bathroom installer, quite by chance, in 2006, and quickly learned the ropes – within 18 months I was ready to go it alone. The showroom opened in 2010 and we’ve never looked back.
Q. You established Bluewater Bathrooms over a decade ago; tell us the story about the creation of the company.
Peter and I were working together as installers, which had given us plenty of experience of bathrooms, and, to be honest, we just dived into it. We chatted about the idea for a while, and realised that there weren’t any other companies doing the whole process – from supply to installation – in York, so we went for it.
Q. We can imagine that a lot has changed in the bathroom world throughout your career; what has been the most significant shift for you? Tavistock 600mm Compass Double Drawer Freestanding Unit
One of the biggest changes is the scale of the choice available now, and Ideal Bathrooms really help us with this. The Ideal range is so extensive, which gives us as a showroom a much better chance of booking jobs, as we tick every box. Customers come in and don’t feel the need to look anywhere else, as they can see we offer absolutely everything.
The other shift we’ve noticed, is that trends are cyclical. When we started, creams and beiges were fashionable; now that’s old hat, and the trend for colours is back in – just like the Seventies!
Q. Having a digital presence has never been more important; how has technology helped Bluewater Bathrooms, and your customers, throughout Covid-19?
We used video calls to help our customers choose bathrooms by walking them through the showroom, so they could see everything. This allowed them to still progress with the project that they were planning, despite not being able to visit the showroom in person.
It helps that we knew the right questions to ask to narrow their choices down, so we could then just show them the relevant products, although that’s how we work in person anyway. Asking the right questions makes it easier for them and for us.
Essential Dakota 1200mm Wall-Hung Basin Unit - Marine Blue
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0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
RUNNING HOT Ideal Bathrooms turns 40! We had some exciting celebrations that you got involved in. Turn back to pages 12-13 to read all about them.
Euro 2020 Bayswater Fitzroy Cistern & WC, Slipper Bath and Clifford Towel Warmer
Q. You offer a fantastic and informative website for clients and the company has a presence on social media. Why did you decide to invest in these platforms?
It’s vital for getting our name out there. When we started, it was all about ads in local magazines, where maybe 100 people would see it. Now, with social media, you have access to a huge audience. You could have 200 people a day seeing your business, rather than 200 a month.
Q. What would your advice be to a bathroom retailer who perhaps hasn’t considered a website or having social media platforms for their business?
It’s a really important tool when it comes to spreading awareness of your business, letting people know who you are and what you do.
Q. Bluewater Bathrooms has worked with Ideal Bathrooms for over 10 years; how does our partnership help you to meet customers’ needs?
We’ve been working together from the very start, from when we launched in 2010. In fact, I remember our very first meeting; it took place in my first ever house, as we didn’t even have the premises set up then! The Ideal product range helps us give our customers the best possible choice, and the friendly service and speedy delivery are the icing on the cake. We have a good working relationship with our rep, too; we know how each other work and he’s always on hand if we need something urgently.
Q. Which bathroom trend do you see making the headlines in 2021?
I think the big one is all the vibrant colours coming out, the blues and greens. People like that because they’re looking for something a bit different, more individual.
With the greys and the beiges, we’re finding that a lot of people are wanting to make a bit more of a statement. We make sure to use coloured products in the showroom; it pays off because clients can see it in situ, and they can judge how it looks in real life – it helps to visualise their own bathroom.
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
England got to the finals in Euro 2020! A big well done to the England team for getting that far and bringing the nation together.
Covid Restrictions lift: As restrictions have begun to ease and we’re continuing with our “new normal”, we’re delighted to see so many of our customers continuing to thrive after such unprecedented times. With the help of the vaccine rollout, we hope we can continue to get back to normality.
Ideal Standard new retail strategy: Ideal Standard have launched a new Retail collection. The collection includes the renamed Connect Air, formally Concept Air. We are also excited to announce the Atelier Collection will be coming soon. To find out more about the collection, contact your local Area Sales Manager.
RUNNING COLD Ideal Standard Sottini As a result of the new Ideal Standard changes, Ideal Standard’s Sottini range will no longer be available in the UK market and Ideal Bathrooms ceased distribution of this range as of 30th June 2021.
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
WHO IS... DAVE BARBER In this edition of The Ideal Bathroom, we caught up with Dave Barber, Managing Director of Ideal Standard UK, to find out all about his experience in the bathroom industry.
Q. You’ve led a very successful career in the bathroom world; how did you get into the industry? I learned about the sector through American Standard Group UK in 2003, as they were known back then. I was Managing Director of a subsidiary called Edwards Logistics Ltd, before moving to Ideal Standard in 2006 as UK Finance Director.
Q. Congratulations again on your promotion to managing director! You’ve been part of the Ideal Standard team for over a decade, how has the industry changed in your eyes over the years? The biggest change I’ve seen has been technology and globalisation resulting in a massive uplift in the volume of products on the market, giving wider choice and bringing more competition. Digitalisation has also changed the way retailers interact with consumers, with e-tail growing to be one of the biggest channels for purchasing. The other major change is sustainability. It’s become a priority for us, and we know we can make the most impact by incorporating intelligent water-saving technology across our ranges.
Q. What was your first job? My first proper job was a trainee accountant at British Gas. More interestingly, at school I was a door-to-door Betterware salesperson, which provided some great experiences with customers!
Q. Describe a typical day in your life Once I have my first coffee, I check emails on my phone, followed by Teams calls with my leadership teams, then maybe a customer call, and there are some calls with my European colleagues too. Before you know it, the day is over and it feels like all I’ve done is video meetings!
Q. We’d love to know what you are passionate about! Can you tell us what your greatest passion is?
People. My family is hugely important, but my passion for people also applies to my professional life. I find it valuable to check in with everyone - by spending time with colleagues at the sharp end you really get to understand the business. You spend a lot of your life at work, so it’s important you support each other and make people feel valued.
Q. Bathroom retailers and merchants have been fighting through the pandemic for over a year. Now businesses are back open, what would your key piece of advice be to keep companies thriving? I think consumers will expect both the services offered throughout the pandemic and the return of standard services. Although this has been a difficult time, there’s been a lot of innovation, with many businesses having to adapt.
Q. Ideal Standard was one of our first initial partners, how has our partnership supported your brand? Ideal Bathrooms has always been a key distribution partner for Ideal Standard, as seen with the support for our Sottini range. I’ve no doubt they’ll play an important role as we bring our new portfolio to market, with our Bathrooms Collections at the forefront.
Q. What can we expect to see from Ideal Standard over the next year? Firstly we will continue growing our portfolio with the above collections, following our partnership with renowned Italian studio, Palomba Serafini Associati. We’ll also be investing in our retail network and helping promote our partners’ footfall with advertising later in the year.
Q. What three things would you want to have with you if you were shipwrecked on a desert island? Number one would be a toothbrush and toothpaste; I couldn’t manage without clean teeth! Second, I’d take a fully-loaded Kindle. There’s so much knowledge you can gain from a reading and I’d have plenty of time.
Q. Who have been the biggest influencers on your career?
Finally, I’d take sunglasses. It’s going to be sunny and my wrinkles are bad enough already!
One of my biggest influencers was an American boss I had called Carlo, who promoted me to my first managing director role. He told me that “the person who presents the information makes the decision”, which has stayed with me.
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Q. What is your guilty pleasure? It has to be bikes. I’ve got five now but I’m always wanting to add to my collection. They say the formulae for how many bikes you need is “n+1”, where n is how many you already have!
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | idealbathrooms.com
Stunning colours Full variety of shapes and sizes
The only shower tray you will need... Upstands
Optional waste covers
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