issue 7 - autumn 2016
theinstaller magazine
BREAKING NEWS
iKBBI ANNOUNCES HISTORIC DEVELOPMENT
INSTALLER PROFILE NEIL LITTLE
WIN A GROHE RAPID SL WORTH £400!
Contents
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BREAKING NEWS, iKBBI Rebrand
06
TRADEPOINT Renews Sponsorship
08
iKBBI NEWS
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INDUSTRY NEWS supplied by kbbdaily
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KATHERINE NEWTON, John Lewis
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BREAKING NEWS
18 SPONSOR NEWS, Franke
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20 GAS SAFETY AWARENESS
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INSTALLER PROFILE
22 SKILLS BANK OPPORTUNITY 24
INSTALLER PROFILE, Neil Little
29 COMPETITION 30 COMPANY PROFILE, Blum
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40
EQUIPMENT ADVICE
30 BLUM,
COMPANY PROFILE
OUR SPONSORS
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Welcome
Welcome ...
37 WASTE REMOVAL WARNING 40
EQUIPMENT ADVICE by Festool
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COMPANY PROFILE, Sirius Buying Group
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Q&A with Natasha Prajapati
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COMPANY PROFILE, CDUK
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BMA MATTERS
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TAX ADVICE by Dean Flood
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INSURANCE ADVICE
62
SOCIAL SCENE
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PRODUCT PORTFOLIO
A new chapter has begun for the organisation amidst exciting times for the industry. The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation is born from a rich decade of tireless growth and I’m personally delighted that we’ve yet again demonstrated courage to take the organisation forward. Our apprenticeship endeavors enters a new phase as the industry unites to work on the important task of education and development – not only for the installers of today, but crucially the newcomers of tomorrow.
68 DIRECTORY
29 COMPETITION
This will not be an easy journey, but importantly is something that’s showing signs of enormous potential. The fact that leading retailers are collaborating on the subject of education is not only important, but is historic. I’m incredibly proud to be leading the organisation and indeed the industry on this particular subject. I do hope you enjoy this issue of The Installer Magazine and please accept my gratitude in appreciation of your support to date. Be sure that we’re making the difference and that you are playing an important role. Thank you.
Damian Walters, iKBBI CEO
OUR SPONSORS
www.ikbbi.org.uk
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iKBBI News
BREAKING NEWS
iKBBI ANNOUNCES HISTORIC DEVELOPMENT The Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installers (iKBBI) announced today that it had been granted permission, by The Secretary of State, to change its name with immediate effect. The announcement comes as the government-sanctioned organisation celebrates its tenth anniversary, which was marked by a Parliamentary event in July attended by a host of industry dignitaries. The organisation has been renamed: The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) The change is hugely significant, as the introduction of the word 'British' will better reflect the institute’s ascendancy and acceptance within Great Britain, since its inception ten years ago. Along with the word 'Institute', the word 'British' is a protected term within UK Law; use is
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iKBBI News
restricted only to those organisations that represent their industry at the very highest level. Whilst the organisation is now operating under its new legal entity, it announced that it would launch the new brand on January 1st 2017, allowing its member’s time to introduce the branding to their respective businesses over the coming weeks, ready for the New Year. There are two key changes: “The introduction of the word ‘British’ demonstrates pre-eminence and will offer enormous marketing opportunities to both the organisation and importantly its members. A new logo is expected to incorporate a British theme,” according to Communications Manager Denise Mayell. The second change is the replacement of the word 'Installers’ in the title, to 'Installation'. Whilst professional installers will remain at the forefront of the organisations activity, the change to ‘installation’ more accurately reflects its engagement with the wider industry, to include manufacturers, distributors and retailers of KBB product – many of whom support the institute via corporate membership and sponsorship already. BiKBBI CEO Damian Walters comments, “This is a landmark moment in the history of the organisation and one that will propel us and our members into the next decade. I am incredibly excited to be leading this phase of evolution, especially considering our current initiatives, which include the development of educational pathways for both industry newcomers and indeed time-served professionals.”
Damian added : “The new brand will incorporate a very British feel, one that I’m confident our 4,500 plus members will be proud to associate themselves with and that I’m sure consumers will identify with too. With a plethora of badges in the marketplace, I’m sure our new status and branding will further allow us, and our members, to separate from the others.” Members will have access to free rebranding support, vehicle signage and digital downloads to help them prepare for the New Year change. The current branding will be phased out throughout the remainder of 2016, ready for a January 1st changeover. Final word goes to Damian: “Despite our rapid growth and recognition throughout the industry, we feel that whilst the iKBBI as a brand has served us well, it has reached a point where the organisation now requires a more accurate brand image. We are really excited as this change represents the beginning of a new and exciting chapter.”
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iKBBI News
TRADEPOINT RENEWS iKBBI SPONSORSHIP TradePoint, the national trade building supplies company, today confirmed its renewal of iKBBI sponsorship. Initially committing to a three year-deal in 2013, the company’s renewal of support will continue to bring massive cost saving benefits to members on a wide range of tools and building materials across their national network of depots with some deals above and beyond those of a standard trade account. iKBBI Membership Manager Lynsey Easom (pictured) commented on the renewal by saying: “Our members have quite literally spent millions of pounds with TradePoint over the last three years. Importantly though, our members have made significant savings over a wide range of products, from full kitchens to tubes of silicone.”
The iKBBI will be sending newly co-branded cards to members over the coming weeks, including new pricing that will bring further savings to installers nationally. TradePoint operates a national network of trade counters within B&Q stores. To find your local counter, click here.
"Our members have made significant savings over a wide range of products, from full kitchens to tubes of silicone.” 6
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Harmonique MD060
Sequel V TM006
UK TOWEL WARMERS & RADIATORS Vogue (UK) Ltd Strawberry Lane, Willenhall, West Midlands, WV13 3RS United Kingdom T: +44(0) 1902 387000 F: +44(0) 1902 387001 E: info@vogueuk.co.uk W: www.vogueuk.co.uk
iKBBI News
INSTITUTE CEO QUIZZED BY POLICE iKBBI CEO Damian Walters was subject to questioning by Essex Police recently, however, we're pleased to confirm only positive outcomes from the two hour investigation. Invited to speak to a group of Essex Police Youth Cadets at their weekly session in Southend, attended by 13-18 year olds, Damian spoke about the history of the iKBBI and particularly how the organisation has evolved over it's ten year history. Discussions on the topic of apprenticeships was had, as was, the opportunities the industry offers for those considering their current career options - "an ideal topic for this particular group of youngsters" said Damian Walters. Damian went onto say: "Essex Police are operating a great initiative with the cadets and I was incredibly impressed by their conduct and professionalism throughout the presentation. I was honoured to be invited to speak to this group of outstanding young citizens and I hope my presentation inspired them to think positively about their futures." Damian also spoke about the various fundraising challenges he's been involved in, to include the ascent of Everest in 2010 and his London-to-Paris cycling challenge in July. Essex Police Unit Leader Vicky De'ath commented by saying: "The voluntary police cadets are built on a foundation of teamwork and contribution to their local community. Damian's presentation showed them a different perspective of how he uses this ethos in both his industry and every day life. The cadets described this as an inspiring input and greatly benefited those destined to apply for job opportunities in different industries." The iKBBI are investing heavily in their educational programme, to include their newly launched iAcademy. Engaging local communities is an important element of the programme according to Damian.
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SLIPS, TRIPS & FALLS CONFERENCE 2016
The iKBBI was represented at last weeks Slips Trips & Falls Conference in London. Operations Manager Claire is pictured with a new and innovative anti-slip shower tray product by Senstec. Slips, trips and falls are the biggest cause of unintentional injury in the world today. The 2-day international conference shared the latest research and ideas to help develop solutions to reduce the incidence and impact of this ongoing problem.
iKBBI News
MEMBERS ANSWER A 'DIY SOS' CALL iKBBI member Brendan Turner, of Topfit Interiors Limited, appeared on the BBC1 prime time show DIY SOS with Nick Knowles and the team recently. The team was in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, with DIY SOS going for Paralympic gold to help build a home fit for a champion. Seventeen-year-old Scott Jones is a young disabled athlete who is already a world champion and who is eager to be self sufficient at home, but the house's
previous design was proving challenging. The DIY SOS team's ambitious build was a large side and rear extension to provide Scott with his own bespoke bedroom, wet room, access to an adapted kitchen and, most importantly an amazing, state-of-the-art gym studio set in the garden to help him achieve his dream of going to Tokyo 2020.
Installing a Wren kitchen, Brendan and his team worked tirelessly to help Nick and the SOS team adapt Scott’s home in time for the big reveal. The show is still available on the BBC iPlayer - keep an eye open for Brendan and the iKBBI logo! Big thanks to Brendan and to Wren for supporting the project - WELL DONE!
IN THE COMMUNITY As well as supporting national charities, including Care after Combat and The Furniture Makers Company, The iKBBI also work with a number of local children's initiatives. Wearing their new kits, with iKBBI logo proudly displayed, the boys & girls from Thurrock Rugby Football Club (pictured) are the latest to benefit from their support. The club work with over 200 children from a wide range of backgrounds and are at the heart of the local community. The iKBBI will also work with the club as part of its wider educational initiative, attracting and providing educational pathways into the KBB industry.
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iKBBI News
BMA CONFERENCE IS A CIRCULAR SUCCESS
The iKBBI attended The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) Annual Conference at The Belfry, West Midlands in October. With Guest Speakers including Harvard economic lecturer Chris Goodall and environmental consultant Julia Hailes MBE. The topic of the conference was "Sustainability and the Circular Economy." The guest speakers challenged the KBB industry around its environmental impact and explored ways in which we can work together to reduce our negative impact on the world we live in. Head of Sustainability at UK retail giant Wolseley, the parent group of The Plumb Centre, Tim Pollard spoke of the Circular Economy and how his business is tackling the subject through various innovative initiatives, including the groups new Sustainable Building Centre at Leamington Spa. Watch the conference video here.
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THE INDUSTRY ASSEMBLES The Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installers (iKBBI) today announced a historic assembly of key industry businesses to formulate a strategy on education and development within the KBB installation sector. Chaired by iKBBI Chief Executive Damian Walters, the new educational assembly will meet at Blum’s UK headquarters in October (2016) to map out plans for a broad strategy on education within the sector. The already confirmed participating members comprise senior representatives from a number of industry opinion forming businesses, including B&Q, Bathstore, John Lewis, Wickes, Wren, Homebase, Omega and Symphony in addition to key organisations including The Chartered Trading Standards Institute, Blum and the apprenticeship training provider PROCAT (Prospects College of Advance Technology). It is believed that this assembly, led by the government sanctioned institute, is an industry first collaboration on the specific subject of installation education and will focus on three key areas over the next 12 months - Apprenticeships for industry newcomers, Continual Professional Development (CPD) for time served professionals and retraining opportunities for those in other sectors wishing to join the industry.
iKBBI News
Speaking at Parliament in the summer, iKBBI CEO, Damian Walters, warned the industry of a pending, and unavoidable skills shortage within the KBB installation sector. Damian said "We are heading towards a crisis as KBB sales increase with an already noticeable lack of skilled installers to meet retail demand."
Bathstore Chief Operating Officer Dean Weston, who has committed to the assembly agreed by commenting, "We've recently ventured our own operation into the Middle East - a region that is ripe for premium products, yet it is a land without labour. Our industry challenge is to come together to work on education and we're proudly working with the iKBBI on a strategy to make this a reality." Damian added, "Generally, education within the KBB sector is extremely important, but none more so than for those actually installing the product, especially when you consider the growing complexity of installation, new regulations and the ever increasing expectations of the modern consumer." At the Parliamentary event, the iKBBI unveiled its new iAcademy, an online portal for CPD (continuous product development) in conjunction with a number of key organisations including The Bathroom Manufacturers Association and The Chartered Trading Standards Institute. It also announced a new retraining partnership with their veterans charities, Care after Combat and Prince Harry's charity, Walking with The Wounded. The iKBBI welcomes interest from anyone wishing to participate in individual or wider educational endeavours, please contact them via denise.mayell@ikbbi.org.uk
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Industry News
supplied by
EXCEPTIONAL INSTALLER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS ANNOUNCED The finalists for the Exceptional Installer of the Year category - sponsored by ALNO UK - in the ek&bbusiness Awards 2016 are as follows:
NICEIC CELEBRATES 60-YEAR MILESTONE
The K Team Brownhirst Joinery Limited The Property Team Limited J. Beach Joinery Mark McEvoy Interiors Splendid SP Ltd
festive extravaganza. It will be celebrating its first ever Awards & Review at The Brewery in London on 1st December.
Having been whittled down to just six finalists, the winner of the Exceptional Installer of the Year category will be announced at ek&bbusiness's
ek&bbusiness would like to thank ALNO UK for its sponsorship of the Exceptional Installer of the Year award.
GROHE PROMOTION OFFERS GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY FOR INSTALLERS Grohe launched its latest installer promotion on 1st September for its Eurosmart range, running until 31st December 2016. The promotion will see installers – who are members of Grohe's Smart reward scheme – in with a chance of winning a 100g gold bar worth more than £3,000 when they buy
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any products from Grohe's Eurosmart range. To enter the raffle, installers must scan the QR code of the Eurosmart range product they have bought to receive double Smart points and be automatically entered. One winner will receive the 100g gold bar at the end
of the promotion; furthermore a Eurosmart washbasin mixer will be awarded to installers who scan every 150th QR code throughout the promotion.
The National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting – NICEIC – has celebrated its 60th anniversary as a “leading body for electrical contractors” in the UK, having originally formed on 10th August 1956. According to the organisation, it now has 19,000 approved contractors and 9,000 domestic installers, making it “the UK's largest and most recognised voluntary body within the electrical industry.” “The 60th anniversary marks a significant milestone in the history of NICEIC,” said CEO Emma Clancy. “Much has changed within the industry during the last six decades but the values of safety and competence remain at the core of everything we do.” “The electrical contractor of today is very different to one from 1956,” she added. “They are able to carry out a range of different tasks relating to the change in consumer demands and the development of the industry over time.”
Industry News
supplied by
HOWARTH TIMBER HIRES KITCHEN CATEGORY MANAGER
Howarth Timber and Building Supplies has appointed Ratinder Sandhu as its new kitchen category manager, with Sandhu joining the merchant following 30 years as a kitchen specialist at Arnold Laver. In her new role, Sandhu will be focusing on strengthening Howarth's kitchen offering. She will oversee the merchant's kitchen showrooms and work with trade customers, as well as heading up development of the Howarth At Home website. “Howarth has a strong reputation all over the country, but kitchens are not something the company is particularly well known for,” said Sandhu. “We are working hard to build the firm's retail, trade and contract kitchen business.” According to Howarth, one of the first steps Sandhu has taken since joining the company is making it a corporate member of the Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Installers – iKBBI. “Being part of the iKBBI will help us to promote our products and it will link us with installers.”
MAX-TOP TO LAUNCH INSTALLER TRAINING COURSE IN DUBLIN Kitchen and bathroom surface company Max-Top is launching its installer training course at a new location in Dublin on a quarterly basis, alongside the existing monthly training courses held in Manchester and Reading. The company launched Max-Top Quartz in Ireland earlier this year with new partner The Panelling Centre. According to Max-Top Managing Director Stephen Moss, the company has already seen “sizable orders coming through.” “The natural next step in our Irish expansion is to deliver our bespoke training courses in the region to cater for our new business growth,” said Moss. “The half-day course
covers the benefits and structure of the unique surfaces in great detail. Attendees can also watch a live demonstration of the machinery and cutting equipment required for installation.” He added: “Attendees leave the course with profitable installation skills and comprehensive product knowledge, both of which are vital for confident selling. Each delegate can also purchase a discounted installation kit and obtain a free sample display box. This includes a full set of the ten finishes available as well as a cross-sectioned block of surface, which showcases its unique interior.”
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iKBBI News
FINDING INSTALLERS THAT COMPLEMENT JOHN LEWIS BRAND VALUES The Installer magazine has created a coup in arranging an interview with Katherine Newton who is the driving force behind the kitchen and bathroom installation teams at the John Lewis Partnership including strategy and recruitment. It is rare to meet someone so dynamic in this industry so we especially thank her for her highly-valued time and candid approach to answering our questions: Hi Katherine, John Lewis Partnership (JLP) is one of the most recognised and trusted brands in the UK and its rare for a business to connect so comfortably with the British public; but is the UK consumer aware of the fact that they can purchase a completely installed kitchen and bathroom from John Lewis? That's a good question. As a partnership, the loyalty and trust that our customers place with us is a huge responsibility. We are famous for connecting to our customers with our Christmas adverts but not so famous for our installation service, in fact most customers won't realise we have quietly been getting on with kitchen installation for over 80 years. Customers will only know about our bathroom installation service via word of mouth. It was a soft launch, so we haven't actually told our customers via any advertising method that we are offering the service yet, and how quickly word of mouth spreads! I am already looking at a 2nd installer recruitment wave for after Christmas. What did you see as the most immediate task? Getting launched in a short time frame was the biggest challenge. I joined the company in early November half 14
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iKBBI News
way through the project and it was an understatement to say that I hit the ground running. We had originally hoped to launch our first branch in February, a delay caused by IT meant that it was April before we could begin to offer the service; to be honest, I was glad of the breathing room as it added more time to the recruitment process.
"We recently launched our bathroom installation service in our full line department stores and have embarked on a massive installer recruitment programme. We have actively sought the help of iKBBI members as we need the best." If most customers were unaware that John Lewis installed kitchens, why have they embraced your installation initiatives so readily? They have because of the trust and reliable reputation that we have as a brand. Consumers can be wary of kitchen and bathroom installation due to bad press and rogue traders over the years, but John Lewis offers them a safe haven, this why our partnership with the iKBBI is so important as our values and standards dovetail perfectly and provide our customers with peace of mind, after all a new kitchen or bathroom is a considered investment.
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iKBBI News
What new initiatives can you tell us about? There is something really exciting just around the corner for us. We recently launched our bathroom installation service in our full line department stores and have embarked on a massive installer recruitment programme. We have actively sought the help of iKBBI members as we need the best. Furthermore, the institute was an amazing help as it also helped and advised with sourcing, vetting, recruitment, due diligence, legal and pricing events and installer induction. Can you elaborate please Katherine? John Lewis always strives to surpass customer expectation so everything that we do is tailored to each individual customer, from initial design concept to installation. We recognise that getting it right first time is part of that John Lewis ‘magic’ and our fantastic installers are integral to delivering the ‘magic!’ We all know the importance of recruiting great installers - it's tough out there right? I felt this was our biggest challenge when setting up our service, so I heavily invested in a robust recruitment process. We contacted over 500 installer teams that are local to the seven branches. Over 200 installers were invited to attend our recruitment open days across the country. I wanted to create something unique that installers hadn't experienced before. An opportunity for them to mingle with the branch teams, have a 1-2-1 interviews to find out about John Lewis and then plenty of time to talk to our suppliers so they could understand the quality of the product they would be installing for us. I really wanted to showcase our premium products offer to prospective installers.
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I am proud to say that we have successfully sub-contracted 47 new installer teams for our seven branches that offer bathroom installation. It sounds to me that you are also proud of your installation teams too? The value of a great installer is under estimated by so many, but not at John Lewis. I want our installer’s teams to feel like partners not sub-contractors. I am confident that we have invested in our installer relationships with the right rates and package, training at our premium suppliers, and most importantly induction
"I want our installer’s teams to feel like partners not subcontractors. I am confident that we have invested in our installer relationships with the right rates and package"
iKBBI News
events, so we could demonstrate and share with installers what makes John Lewis so special to its customers. What is most critical to this relationship is bringing together the installer expertise with our partner knowledge and experience. Creating the magic that is so unique to the John Lewis experience. Its early days but how do you feel its going? I've been out and about visiting our new teams during their installations and their customers are relaying to me about their professionalism, workmanship and how comfortable they are to have them working in their home. And of course, they look great in their John Lewis approved installer polos! What have you enjoyed most about this ‘journey’ so far? Finding the best installers in the business and personally meeting every single one of them especially when I deliver their induction days. It’s great to see how the installers become an integral part of the John Lewis family. I also get a buzz from witnessing first-hand their high-quality workmanship and watching them make our customer’s dreams come true. Are their any other initiatives in the pipeline, if you’ll pardon the pun? I've only just got started with bathroom installation really but there are lots of service offers that we will shortly make available to our customers. I promise that when we are ready to tell the Industry, the iKBBI and The Installer magazine will be the first to know. My next project is reviewing our kitchen installation service and making improvements for both our customers and our installer teams. It's a big job and
I mean business, so if you feel that you are the ‘crème de la crème’ of the installer world and want to improve your work/ business lifestyle then I definitely want to hear from you. In the first instance, register your interest via the BiKBBI Skills Bank. It sounds a bit cheesy I know but if you had a personal business mission statement what would it be? I look forward to supporting many years of installation excellence, securing loyalty and trust by providing outstanding choice, value and service. Finally, do you have any further plans to work with the iKBBI? Definitely, in fact I’m really looking forward to playing an active part in new iKBBI led Installation Education Assembly. I applaud initiatives like these because education, training and development are absolutely fundamental to the development of the industry and JLP’s future plans.
"My next project is reviewing our kitchen installation service and making improvements for both our customers and our installer teams. It's a big job and I mean business, so if you feel that you are the ‘crème de la crème’ of the installer world and want to improve your work/business lifestyle then I definitely want to hear from you" www.johnlewis.co.uk
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Sponsor News
FRANKE LEADS THE WAY WITH INSTALLER-FRIENDLY 4-IN-1 TAPS Franke’s innovative lever-operated Omni 4-in-1 tap range delivers filtered boiling water at 100°C, filtered cold water and standard mains hot and cold, all from a simple-to-install single tap mixer. The timeless swan-neck design of the Omni in hi-shine solid stainless steel marries impeccable looks and longlasting performance. Following the Omni’s instant popularity, Franke has extended its design choice with the Omni Classic. This provides all of the benefits of the 4-in-1 technology but with gentle curves and elegant white levers to cater for more traditional kitchen styles. The Omni range has been designed for fast and easy installation, in as little as two hours. The boiler connections and the flexible hoses are colour coded and assembly is simply ‘plug and play’, in conjunction with existing plumbing. The ‘no tool’ Nutrunna® technology on the hoses allows for hand-tightening so minimal plumbing or tools are required. A video showing how easy Omni’s are to install is available on Franke’s website www.Franke.co.uk/omni The tap can be retrofitted into a standard 35mm tap hole, so is ideal for existing kitchens as well as new ones. It’s also fully reversible, with one lever for mains hot and cold, while the other lever dispenses the filtered boiling and filtered cold water.
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The easy-to-fit Omni 4-in-1 tap can be installed in less than two hours and delivers filtered 100°C boiling, filtered cold and mains hot and cold from a single, lever-operated tap.
Sponsor News
The patented filter housing has two flow outlets built-in, cutting down complexity and plumbing time. Omni taps can be fitted with low pressure water systems producing better than average water flow and is suitable for most gravity fed supplies. The compact four litre stainless steel tank and filter fit neatly into the under-sink cupboard and will dispense the equivalent of eight cups of hot water or two pan fulls with a fast replenishment time. The 100°C boiling water function boasts triple safety features including a push and turn activation function, a springloaded shut off and an optional, unique child safety clip that prevents the tap from being accidentally turned on. Patented chassis engineering means that the tap
is never too hot to touch, even when producing boiling water. Premium filtration is assured with a separate tube to maintain the water’s integrity and an LED that tells you when a new filter cartridge needs fitting. The filter removes impurities but leaves in healthy minerals in the drinking water, while also reducing the build-up of limescale in the boiling water tank. Replacement cartridges are required every six to nine months and are as easy to change as a light bulb. Omni has a retail price of £1,349 inc VAT, highly competitively priced in its market sector for the benefits on offer. It comes with the assurance of a three-year warranty and is supported by a dedicated after-sales team. www.franke.co.uk
The Omni’s compact four litre stainless steel tank and filter fit neatly into the under-sink cupboard. The ‘no tool’ Nutrunna® technology on the hoses allows for hand-tightening so minimal plumbing or tools are required. www.ikbbi.org.uk
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Gas Safety Awareness
iKBBI SUPPORTS SAFETY INITIATIVE The iKBBI recently supported Gas Safety Week which is organised annually to raise awareness of gas safety and to highlight the importance of consumers taking care of their gas appliances. It is co-ordinated by Gas Safe Register with support from across industry including retailers, manufacturers, consumer bodies and the public. iKBBI CEO, Damian Walters, recently recorded a video explaining what the organisation is doing to support this important safety initiative: CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE VIDEO. He states “Twenty three million households in the United Kingdom, Isle of Man and Guernsey use gas for heating, hot water and cooking and yet we take it for granted that our boilers, cookers and gas fires are safe. Badly fitted and poorly serviced gas appliances can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning. All are deadly!” The following facts are really quite staggering: ● Every year thousands of people across the UK are diagnosed with carbon monoxide poisoning. It is a highly poisonous gas. You can’t see it, taste it or smell it, but it can kill quickly with no warning. ● Gas Safe Register estimates around 1.1 million gas jobs are carried out every year by illegal fitters. 3 in 5 illegal jobs inspected were found to be unsafe, with 1 in 5 having to be immediately disconnected, as they were deemed to be too dangerous. ● 3 in 4 victims of illegal gas work hired the worker following a friend’s
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recommendation and 1 in 4 found them through an advert, wrongly assuming they were registered. In all cases the householder did not check the credentials of the worker before the work was carried out – you should always check the official Gas Safe Register. ● Although there is awareness that gas appliances need to be safety checked annually, 43% of Britons don’t do it, and 10% have gas appliances which have never been checked (Gas Safety Week Research 2011). Final word to Damian who comments, “Consumers really do need to take heed of the Gas Safety Week message. Kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installers, and iKBBI members in particular, should make their potential customers aware of the importance and potential ramifications of ignoring the advice."
FITTERS OF BRITAIN, WE WANT YOU We want you to fit our products, but we’ll make it worth your while. You demand the best and we deliver the best products and the best support for fitters. We want you to have offers and freebies that help your business and make your life easier. We want customers to know you’re a cut above the rest. We want you to be part of something special. We want you to Fit Franke First. To find out more visit fitfrankefirst.co.uk
Skills Bank Opportunity
OVERWHELMING RESPONSE At the iKBBI event hosted at the Houses of Parliament in July, the iKBBI unveiled plans to launch an online portal for installers to register their details, thus allowing its Installation Standards Partners to make contact for new work opportunities. Installers were invited to register their details online, which they did in their masses. Over one thousand installers had registered before the magazine went to press; the majority comprised a mix of current iKBBI members, with around 40% non-members. The split is currently around 50-50 between bathroom and kitchen installers.
“This response is testament of our reach and I fully expect the number to continue growing over the coming months."
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iKBBI CEO Damian Walters said: “I must admit I was incredibly surprised by the initial uptake on registration.” Damian continued: “This response is testament of our reach and I fully expect the number to continue growing over the coming months. Our social media campaigning has proven successful for this particular initiative, as our Communications Manager Denise Mayell used Facebook and Twitter as a call to action for installation businesses looking for new work streams.” The Institute will work exclusively with its Installation Standards Partners, matching their installer requirements with the database of businesses now within The Skills Bank.
Advertorial
BLUM’S NEW TECHNICAL SUPPORT HOTLINE
The leading fittings supplier to the KBB sector in the UK, Blum, has implemented for fitters, designers and manufacturers, an extended hours technical support hotline: 0800 230 0898 The hotline offers 8am - 8pm support Monday - Friday, and 8am - 12 midday on Saturdays.
Blum realises that a strict 9am – 5pm contact availability is no longer adequate for today’s working environment and, with the new hotline, have proved that they are once again at the forefront of service to industry, exceeding expectations. The decision follows the results of a widely circulated questionnaire asking if out of hours support would be useful. Seventy five percent of respondents said “yes”.
Blum UK Sales & Marketing Director David Sanders said: “We realise that in today’s busy world, normal business hours no longer apply…and this is true of the KBB industry as any other. The most used service in our business is Technical Support so we are now meeting the demands of our customers by extending the hours that this service is available.” Blum UK 0800 230 0898 www.blum.com
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Installer Profile, Neil Little
Neil in the party mood
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Installer Profile, Neil Little
FROM BEECH WORKTOPS TO BEACH HUTS, SELFLESS NEIL IS AN INSPIRATION HE ENJOYS A PARTY TOO How long have you been installing? I started installing kitchens whilst an apprentice so I’ve been fitting for over 30 years, scary stuff. I left school at 16 and joined a local building/joinery company and in those days you had to work a year with the company before they would award you apprenticeship. My apprenticeship lasted 3 years and I also attended college 1 day a week, at this time I also had an opportunity to enrol on other courses so at one point I was doing 3 days of night school, try asking that of a modern apprentice!
“The iKBBI annual membership fee is really good value, in fact the very first enquiry I had through a lead supplied by the iKBBI led to a £24,000 job!"
What do you install? Kitchens and we also fit bedrooms and the odd bathroom. What geographical area do you work in? North Kent and South East London but we have worked as far away as Wales and have even flown to Scotland! Even then we were still on site by 8am and before the main contractors arrived! What's your specialty? I am carpentry/joinery trained and was awarded Master Carpenter/Joiner status in 2003 by the Institute of Carpenters, so my skills lie with everything wood. I do however, love learning about new products and retraining in professional installation. A good example is solid-
Neil and Josh
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Installer Profile, Neil Little
surface worktops which we began installing in 2008, and it has proven to be a good decision as this skill really helped us survive the recession. Do you install yourself etc.? I had always been quite happy to work on my own and seeking help when needed, but since 2008, I have been training apprentices, so there has since been a minimum of two on site. I have got used to having someone else around now and would miss the banter if I were to work on my own again. Where do you get your work from? Most of my work comes through recommendation but my website is really effective and generates at least 4 enquiries a week without me even having to pay for an SEO package. I also find other companies that offer free links for local installers, I sign up for these and they generate about 4 leads a month too! Tell us a funny installation story? It was back in 2001 around the time of ‘nine eleven’ and was working in a kitchen alone and trying to lift a 1000mm wall cabinet into a tricky position; so there I was, balanced with one foot on the ladder and another on the worktop, when a builder who was a friend crept in and pulled down my trousers and pants! I had a choice of saving the cabinet or my dignity, but always the professional; I saved the cabinet! From that day forward I have never gone to work without a belt securing my trousers in place. What you would be if you weren't an installer? I love the psychology that goes into selling, what to say and when to encourage the consumer to buy so if I
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Neil at his beach hut
Installer Profile, Neil Little
were to start out again I think I would be salesman, not telesales though as they do my head in! What has been your biggest challenge in business? I think each job has its own challenges and these differ from job to job, sometimes it's the customer other times the supplier or just the job itself. It's the challenges that make each day different without these I think I would get bored easily, I like problem solving and I feel like the A -Team when a 'plan comes together'. What has been your biggest challenge personally? I have had many of life's challenges over the years but since my parents passed away I am now responsible for overseeing my brother's care as he contracted
meningitis as a baby and has been severely mentally handicapped ever since. I often have to attend meetings and listen and deal with professionals relating to his care, unfortunately, my brother's disabilities are unique and he doesn't fit their tick boxes; as a result, his care can be mismanaged and I have to argue his case over and over again. It can be very frustrating when people don't want to listen or think they know what is best for my brother when clearly they don’t. Eventually they usually give up and go away by being transferred elsewhere in their organisation or have to concede and listen to me and his other carers. This all consumes valuable time and is very stressful for everyone on occasions. I now hold an annual garden party for my brother at his house complete with a marquee and band. Our family, friends and other service users are all invited and as this year was my brother's 50th birthday celebration, we went all-out to make it an extra special occasion. Guests were transported in Dr. Who's Tardis (which we made) back to the year of 1966 for a London themed street party. Do you have any concerns for the future of our industry? I have said for many years that the building industry needs investment, support and the public needs to be educated on how to avoid rogue traders. It’s frustrating to witness consumers going for the cheapest quote, irrespective of lack of qualifications and reputation, thus creating problems and bad press that tarnishes the whole profession.
Brother Keith and Neil
Any training/apprenticeships need to be of a high standard and you can't train people to do a professional job in 18 months, It takes at least 4 years to obtain the necessary know-how and skills to perform
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Installer Profile, Neil Little
most trades within the building industry. Sadly, given the current skills shortage this is certainly not going to be fixed overnight. A lack of government foresight and investment has been the biggest problem within the building industry. Why did you join the iKBBI? I saw the iKBBI stand at a trade show a few years ago and I spoke to the CEO Damian. I was impressed by his plans for the industry as a whole but I didn't have the cash to join at that time. Subsequently, I joined 2 years later. What I like best about the iKBBI is that it is not a scheme like others where I am paying for advertising, its actually trying to improve industry standards! The annual fee provides really good value, in fact the very first job enquiry I had through a lead supplied by the iKBBI led to a £24,000 job! I have now been a member for 3 years and have watched the iKBBI evolve and membership is a great selling tool; customers may not have heard of the iKBBI but once they have done their research they are definitely more confident when placing an order.
Neil's beach hut
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Family time at the beach hut
Hobbies and interests? I have very little free time as I have worked 7 days a week in the past and have struggled to find a good work/life balance but I do have my little projects. One of these was converting my old work van into a camper van after I had difficulty in selling it. When time permits we now go for weekends around the country, this also helps with my hobby of sea fishing but I find most of the seas we visit are empty of fish, it doesn't stop me trying though! I also play the banjo ukulele although I do need a lot more practice. I began playing before they became fashionable so until now it has always been a closely guarded secret to save me from ridicule. Although it can be quite entertaining if a customer has one at a job, the look on people's faces as I bash out my rendition of 'When I'm Cleaning Windows' George Formby style is priceless. I also have a beach hut on the East Sussex coast which we bought and renovated a few years ago. It is in constant need of repairs and we can't help improving it so this keeps me busy but I can't think of anywhere better to work, sun and sea: the perfect combination. My project for 2017 is creating a home cinema or ‘man-cave’ as they are called now.
WIN
A RAPID SL 4 IN 1 SET FOR WALL-HUNG WC INSTALLATION WORTH ALMOST £400 FROM INDUSTRY GIANT GROHE! The Rapid SL 4 in 1 set is part of a first-class installation system that offers superior functions and features. It comes complete with a 6 to 3 litre cistern and has an installation height of a metre. The Rapid SL system gives KBB installers the freedom to fit wall-hung basins, bidets, urinals and WCs easily. Available in three different installation heights, each frame comes pre-assembled with sanitary ware fixings and is subject to stringent testing, in fact, every WC frame is tested to hold 400kg. Design and technology as with all Grohe products, Rapid SL offers a host of other benefits. Its concealed cisterns are unbelievably quiet and this is enhanced when the cistern is fixed to an installation frame rather than the wall. They can be fitted with either dual or single flush plates that are designed to complement Grohe’s brassware collections. Grohe’s Rapid SL frame system ensures hassle-free bathroom installation. Frames can either be built into stud walls or placed in front of a brick or stud wall, so there‘s no need to spend time and money removing existing tiling. The frame is simply secured in place during the construction or refurbishment of your customers bathroom and concealed behind a wall. For your chance to WIN the Rapid SL 4 in 1 set, simply subscribe to the iKBBI Installer magazine by clicking 'Enter':
ENTER HERE
Company Profile, Blum
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Company Profile, Blum
PUTTING INSTALLERS FIRST Founded in 1952 by Julius Blum in the Austrian municipality of Hoechst in Vorarlberg, Blum established itself as one of the market leaders of the fittings branch. Everyone from furniture manufacturers, authorised dealers, furniture sellers, fitters and end users experience enhanced convenience thanks to Blum’s innovative fittings solutions.
The company’s UK headquarters in Milton Keynes
Employees – the basis of success Blum is a family-owned company that operates worldwide, specialising in the manufacture and distribution of furniture fittings. Its main product groups are lift, hinge and pull-out systems for furniture, predominantly in kitchens. Worldwide clients include furniture manufacturers and authorised dealers. Blum has roughly 6,900 employees all over the world today, with 5,300 in Vorarlberg alone. The fittings manufacturer operates seven plants in Vorarlberg which all have stateof-the art workplaces and high-tech production facilities, with sites in Poland, Brazil and the USA and 28 subsidiaries and representative offices. The company supplies more than 120 markets around the world. On 1 September 2016, 80 new apprentices started their technical training at Blum Austria. This means that from September 2016, the Blum Group will employ 306 apprentices, 13 of whom are based in the US.
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Company Profile, Blum
Quality of motion throughout the home Blum strives to achieve perfect motion with all its fittings solutions. Blum products make opening and closing of furniture a mesmerising experience and increase the quality of motion and user convenience throughout the home – in particular in kitchens. Consistent developments and innovative force are required to achieve this goal. Blum has been able to assert and maintain its position both as a reliable supplier to furniture manufacturers and an innovative market leader for many years thanks to consistent investment in R&D. This also includes continuous efforts to identify customer needs along the entire value added chain – from manufacturers, sellers and fitters to end users (i.e. kitchen buyers).
Refined fittings solutions by Blum bring enhanced convenience throughout the home
All product developments boast quick, easy and safe assembly and installation. Our origins When Julius Blum founded his own company in 1952 the one-man business focused on the manufacture of special horseshoe studs that prevented horses from slipping on ice or bad soil conditions. Business was good in the early 1950s. In 1953 Julius Blum hired his first employee followed by many others over the years. However, the decline of the horseshoe business became foreseeable when tractors found their way into Vorarlberg’s farming industry. Luckily, it came to Julius Blum’s notice that novel window, door and cabinet fittings were being manufactured in neighbouring Switzerland. His company had the suitable machinery but lacked the necessary manufacturing licences. So the young entrepreneur travelled to Zurich to meet the patent owner in person. As
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The start of manufacture of the Anuba hinge in 1958 marked Blum’s entry into the fittings branch
Company Profile, Blum
Blum’s main product groups are hinge, pull-out and lift systems
a result, he was commissioned with the manufacture of the Anuba hinges. Much later, Julius Blum described this step as “a milestone in the company’s history”. Convincing products Innovative fittings solutions by Blum bring enhanced convenience to furniture throughout the home – in particular to kitchens – and that a furniture lifetime. The storage space available is put to optimal use, large wall cabinets glide open at a single touch and heavily laden drawers and pull-outs (with a load bearing capacity of up to 65 kg) can simply be nudged open with your knee or toe (should your hands be full). This
opening ease is delivered by Servo-Drive, the electric motion support system by Blum. Furniture closes again softly and effortlessly with soft-close Blumotion. The latest motion technology in Blum’s range is Tip-On Blumotion. The fitting combines mechanical one-touch opening with soft and effortless closing thanks to Blumotion. Blum’s innovative fittings solutions and practical ideas make kitchens the wellbeing hub of the home. But that’s not all. All product developments boast quick, easy and safe assembly and installation. No matter whether furniture manufacturers, authorised dealers, fitters or end users – everyone benefits from Blum’s high-tech furniture fittings.
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Company Profile, Blum
Consistent developments safeguard Blum’s position The family-owned company has seven plants in Vorarlberg, Austria which all have state-of-the art workplaces and high-tech production facilities. Blum has been able to assert and maintain its position as a reliable supplier to furniture manufacturers for many years thanks to consistent investment in R&D amounting to 4% of the company’s annual turnover. “We apply for patents to protect all our latest developments which are designed to meet our customers’ existing and future needs. We’ve been ranked amongst Austria’s best patent applicants for many years. This also bears testimony to our innovative force,” says Jürgen Wilke (in charge of industrial property rights at Blum) about how the company utilises The Technical Room at Blum UK in Milton Keynes
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its innovative force and takes consistent measures to protect it. Blum UK’s brand new Experience Centre – with a dedicated room for Installers Blum UK has just launched a brand new immersive facility at its UK offices and warehouse in Milton Keynes. The Experience Centre is 11,500 sq ft of interactive experience: “A place where ideas and relationships are brought to life,” explains David Sanders, Blum UK Sales and Marketing Director. “It’s a stateof-the-art facility, where our partners can experience not only Blum’s products but also its services, its people, its heritage and culture.” www.blum.com
The Installers Choice There’s something a bit more satisfying when fitting something of unmistakable quality.
V-ZUG not only manufactures appliances that the enduser will enjoy but appliances that make it a pleasure for installers too. First of all there’s the sheer build quality of the appliance, we’re not talking low-end here, and then there’s the ease of installation with the support of a clear concise installation and fitting guide, on-line access including diagnosis for any rare problems and its all backed up by an unrivalled in house after-sales-service too.
Encourage your customer or retailer to take a look at V-ZUG. The best known secret in domestic appliances
Waste Care
WARNING! TAKE WASTE REMOVAL SERIOUSLY Following our fly-tipping feature in the summer edition of The Installer Magazine, the iKBBI conducted a national waste survey in September, asking members how they disposed of waste generated within their KBB refurbishment projects. Our previous article reported on The Bathroom Fitting Company, whose waste ended up being fly tipped in Essex, which led to a successful prosecution for Epping Forest District Council for fly tipping offences, even though the installer did not dispose of the waste himself. The prosecution concluded that the defendant had failed in his duty of care by not undertaking proper due diligence when appointing a third party contractor to clear the waste from a bathroom project in Waltham Abbey, Essex. The prosecution prompted the iKBBI to conduct a survey, which attracted feedback from 1,831 installers nationally. The survey’s first question asked whether installers had their own Waste Transfer Licence, or whether they
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Waste Care
employed the services of a third party waste transfer contractor. Of the 1,831 surveyed, 76% employ the services of a third party waste removal agent (WS1), with the vast majority using traditional rigid skips as a solution. Only 22% (WS4) knew exactly where their waste was disposed, and that a waste transfer receipt is required to fulfil their due diligence. 91% of those surveyed said they believed that the government has failed to educate tradespeople on the legal requirement around waste disposal, suggesting that installers may unwittingly be breaking the law. The law is very clear when it comes to waste disposal. Only those businesses that hold a valid Waste Transfer Licence, issued by The Environment Agency, are allowed to transfer waste generated in home improvement projects. This includes building waste, old products, which have been removed, as well as the packaging from new products. Additionally, it’s a legal requirement, that if an installer is utilising the services of a third party to dispose of waste, that the Waste Transfer Licence is viewed and recorded and that a transfer receipt is obtained, detailing the collection specifics and the destination. As part of its new educational portal, The iKBBI has worked with its sponsor HIPPO, to produce a straight talking, plainEnglish guide to waste disposal for the industry. View the guide online, here.
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Keep a clean sheet.
Festool dust extractors. For healthier work. For better results.
You´ll never work alone. A clean job is more than a perfect result. The Festool mobile dust extractors work discreetly in the background, but are immediately
Tools for the toughest demands
on site when they are needed. Sawing, sanding, routing. Perfectly matched to the tools, they extract the dust where it is generated. They thus guarantee not only health-friendly work, but also save you time and effort on time-consuming cleaning. For more information please visit www.festool.co.uk/dustfree or your retailer. www.festool.co.uk
Tools, Power Tools & Equipment Advice
CORDLESS PRECISION WITH FESTOOL Cordless machines have a reputation for lack of power and performance which can adversely affect the finished product. This can often mean that the user has to rework his job thus costing time and money. However, iKBBI sponsors Festool, ensures that there is no compromise in power or performance throughout the company’s entire cordless range no matter what the application. This is achieved by using brushless motors, a high quality battery and a charging system that cools the battery pack. So as an example, when a laminate based materials like a worktop needs to be trimmed on site, the TSC 55 Plunge cut saw will achieve a splinter free cut. The TSC uses a brushless motor so the Airstream battery system is used efficiently and as a result the machine that has the same RPM and performance as a comparable corded machine but with the convenience of freedom of movement. On occasions when a scribe is needed then the PSC420 Jigsaw can be used and like the TSC 55 Plunge Cut Saw will match in performance any corded version, it’s fantastically accurate and the cut is splinter free.
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Tools, Power Tools & Equipment Advice
So what makes a Festool Airstream battery so effective? Well, the machine can be worked very hard so the ‘draw’ on the battery is high which produces heat. The heat from the cells need to be dissipated and this is where the Airstream charger can be a real time and cost saver, for as soon as the battery is slotted into position the fan on the charger will pull air through the cells of the battery so it is actively cooling the battery. This means the cells cool and can be charged. It also helps to look after the cells within the battery so they perform for as long as possible. The Airstream charger will also display the length of time until the battery is fully charged. The use of a brushless motor in all of the 18v cordless machines from Festool means that the full range produce immediate torque so the performance if
high as soon as the trigger is pulled but it also means that the battery is used very efficiently so work can continue. Using cutting-edge technology to increase the performance of machines is an area where Festool excels so you can be assured of achieving the perfect finish with virtually any modern material. Its always worth KBB installers considering that as power tools are a big investment then any warranty policy needs to be considered at the point of purchase and therefore Festool is a safe choice as it offers an all-inclusive service, 15 day money back guarantee so if the model is not suitable for the application purchased, a ÂŁ100 theft insurance, 10 year spare parts policy, and all repairs covered over three years. Better still, even the battery is covered under the warranty policy. www.festool.co.uk
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Company Profile, Sirius Buying Group
GROUP APPEAL! 'SIRIUS' BENEFITS FOR KBB RETAILERS AND INSTALLERS Gordon Jones, Chairman of The Sirius Buying Group talks to iKBBI The Installer this month and explains what his organisation means to you, your customers and your business … As a major buying group in the electrical appliance retail industry, what sets you apart from the competition? As an installer, I know you pride yourself on a quality installation service and reputable aftercare to generate positive new business and the ability to retain existing customers. We have the very same principles at The Sirius Buying Group; a major buying group where its dedicated members provide a leading collection of home appliance brands across the UK. Currently comprising of more than 150 members, we advocate a network of over 250 retail outlets spanning the country, with a collective trade purchasing power of more than £100 million plus for you to benefit from… I believe our ‘buying power’ and industry standing has derived from our specially negotiated terms with a comprehensive range of preferred suppliers. This means that our members benefit from improved margins, which we all know to be essential in today’s competitive market place where increasing profitability is paramount.
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Company Profile, Sirius Buying Group
"As an installer, I know you pride yourself on a quality installation service and reputable aftercare" As an installer, to know that you’re dealing with a Sirius retail member will provide you and your customer(s) with great advantage. Offering the retailer (which ultimately means you) very competitive prices, Sirius members have the ability to offer a first-rate delivery service, installation and aftercare via its unique Care Warranty Scheme: a comprehensive and competitively priced service plan. Having been active since 2001, how do you feel you have cornered the market? Since first establishing the buying group back in 2001, our product reach has certainly amplified, seeing our members cater to Cooking, Laundry, Waste Disposal, Refrigeration, Sinks and Taps, Floor care and Visual technology. With a complete outline of the electrical appliance industry, we wish to branch out and meet the needs of the UK kitchen market. This will look to ensure that we can accommodate other products within our portfolio of leading brands and rightly welcome Furniture, Surfaces and Storage solutions too... With kitchens becoming more open to the living and dining area, appliance manufacturers have had to develop new technologies and electrical solutions to keep pace with current market trends. With that, manufacturers product portfolios now need to offer both
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Company Profile, Sirius Buying Group
integrated and freestanding appliances to ensure that our network of retail members and suppliers can effectively accommodate this new category of customer. Do you have any areas of the business that forecast growth and developments? Having positively gained support within the electrical appliance sector, we now want to facilitate more kitchen-led retail brands that are yet to benefit from our incomparable capacity, reach and services. Having recognised this need for development, we have instructed a long-term media partner to implement a concerted publicity drive to primarily target the kitchen retail sector. We hope through devoted brand support we will be able to effectively increase commitment from the kitchen retail sectors, to then pass on to you the latest products, innovations, aftercare service and savings direct from the retailer. Has there been any direct impact to your Buying Group following Brexit? Providing a simple, effective process for ‘the independent to compete’, is the foundation behind the group and as 44
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a representative for many leading UK and global appliance brands, Brexit is obviously a point of discussion. However, with little to no tangible change until Brexit officially comes into effect, we and many of our international brand providers are at the mercy of prolonged government legislation. Until the UK invoke Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, which gives the UK and EU two years to agree the terms of the split, we are unable to determine how the market will actually fare. Of course we have seen a decline in consumer confidence, across all sectors, but I do not believe this is a direct result of Brexit but instead to the rise in import costs, where smaller retailers have to bear the brunt of excessive mark-ups. This is a fundamental reason why professionals such as yourself, should buy from a Sirius retail member, to ensure you have the support of a highly dependable resource now, and in the future, where it will matter most.
www.sirius-buying-group.co.uk
The Finest Kitchens Deserve The Finest Food Storage Solutions. Liebherr is the perfect choice for nocompromise cooling products in your kitchen projects, with an unrivalled range of sizes, options and finishes all featuring award-winning innovation. • Built-in • Freestanding • Wine • Side-by-side • Designer Take a fresh look at the range of design options available to you only from Liebherr. Liebherr-Great Britain Ltd Tel: 03330 147 888 sales@myliebherr.co.uk
Q & A with Natasha Prajapati
Answering this issues Q&A’s is Natasha Prajapati who is the iKBBI’s Inspector Co-Ordinator and is responsible for the operational management and deployment of the field inspector team.
Q&A with Natasha Prajapati
You’ve recently joined the iKBBI, what are your first impressions? I am glad I have joined the iKBBI as the people I work with are great; they all work very well as a team and are very supportive. I have been welcomed into the fold with open arms, which is fantastic! The office is well run too, I have worked at several multi-national companies in London but I have never been invited to the Houses of Parliament, where the iKBBI's 10 year anniversary was held. It was very exciting and I was somewhat starstruck! What attracted you to your role with the iKBBI? Before I applied for the role, I'd heard lots of good things about the institute, how it’s the only one of its kind and how its growing all the time. I applied and thankfully got offered the role as Inspections Co-ordinator. I am enjoying my varied role and am building up a relationship with the iKBBI inspectors. Enough of business, tell us about yourself? I'm blessed to have a 5 year old son called Kaelan; he's a very loving, rambunctious little man who never ceases to amaze me every day! I am very close to my two younger sisters who I'm immensely proud of. I am currently studying a Counselling Diploma at South Essex College, which I love! In my spare time I enjoy swimming, going to the gym and live for my little trips away with Kaelan! What or who makes you laugh? My son makes me laugh, but most of the time I have to hide it as it involves him doing something mischievous! I love Reeves and Mortimer, Ricky Gervais and Russell Brand.
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Q & A with Natasha Prajapati
Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with? Matthew McConaughey! Not only is he easy on the eye but also he seems like a funny person to be around!
Favourite holiday destination? Where do I start? Nepal (my dad is Nepali), New York, Hong Kong and not to mention Orlando!! Prior to having my son, I went every year from 1995 to 2010!
What’s your favourite movie? That’s a tough one as I have a few in different categories! Girlie one, The Family Stone. Action one, Man on Fire. Comedy one, The Jerk and Dumb and Dumber. What song would most likely get you up in the dance floor? 90s dance or alternative songs, e.g. Higher State of Consciousness Josh Wink or Smells like Teen Spirit, Nirvana What makes you cringe? David Brent in The Office! I love it though!
Hopes for the Future? To stay healthy, happy and provide a good future for my son, my family and I.
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Company Profile, CDUK
SURFACE PARADISE. CDUK LEADS THE WAY As the only distributor in the UK focusing solely on selling solid surface solutions, CDUK can boast an unparalleled product and service. We have an experienced technical support team to help with Corian® fabricator questions and issues. And, we have an extensive range of products that you will only find at CDUK: as well as holding large stocks of Corian® itself you can get all the best quality solid surface tools and machinery. What is Corian®? Corian® is the original solid surface material. Created to last a lifetime it is a unique blend of minerals and acrylic which creates a stone-hard surface that can be shaped to meet any design or dimension. Corian® is an amazing material that is an advanced composite of natural minerals and pure acrylic polymer and is backed by DuPont™ with a 10 year Limited Installed Warranty. Corian® Products Thanks to the solid, homogenous nature of Corian®, and its ability to be cut and joined inconspicuously together using DuPont™ Joint Adhesive, there are virtually no limits to the size and shape of your design. Corian® sheets and shapes fall under the DuPont™ 10 year Limited Installed Warranty, when the product is used, fabricated and installed according to the
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Company Profile, CDUK
Training at CDUK
"Installers are extremely important to us and we believe that offering ongoing specialist training is an integral part of our service to them" Gary Baker, Managing Director, CDUK Ltd
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Company Profile, CDUK Thermoforming Corian®
guidelines and requirements set forward by DuPont Corian®. As well as Corian® sheets, CDUK also supplies Corian® sinks and basins, edging strips and other features to help make sure that your Corian® installation is as seamless as the material itself. Welcome to the CDUK Training Centre We set up the CDUK Training Centre to offer our customers access to high quality training for fabrication and installation of Corian®. As market leaders, CDUK’s team of trainers have been teaching fabricators the necessary skills for over 30 years. Our team are well known and respected in the solid surface industry for their excellent knowledge and service levels. As well as Corian® related courses we will be offering general joinery skills 50
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courses and linking up with Power Tool manufacturers to offer training days where you will have the opportunity to come and try out and learn about their products. City and Guilds Training CDUK not only train selected companies with the right skill base and standard of work to become Corian® fabricators, but we are also starting to focus on offering training courses to individuals. We have recently obtained certification for our fabrication and installation courses so that any fabricators or installers trained by CDUK will have gained evidence towards passing the City and Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Furniture, Interiors and Wood Machining Unit 229 Fit and Fix Worksurfaces through specialist training organisation, Webs Training.
Company Profile, CDUK
Training to match your needs Courses are limited in size to a maximum of 6 people to ensure a focussed training session that will be tailored to the needs and standards of the individuals on the courses. Latest Equipment As one of the leading power tool dealers in the country we are able to make sure that during your training sessions you are using the very latest in tools and equipment – quality power tools to ensure quality workmanship. Book Today! For more information please contact: Kim Firth on 0113 201 2243 or email info@cdukltd.co.uk
www.cdukltd.co.uk
Residential, commercial, retail and more
Craft CorianÂŽ for designer kitchens
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BMA Matters
ANOTHER ANNUAL CONFERENCE SUCCESS FOR BMA Behaviour change, sustainable products, change of mindset, digitalisation and globalisation were just a few of the topics discussed at this year’s Bathroom & Kitchen Business Conference. The annual event has been designed to expand the minds of its delegates and this year was no exception. The agenda, designed with the Circular Economy in mind, lived up to its promises with speakers carefully selected to inform, provoke reaction and inspire the audience. The conference, hosted by BBC News presenter Sophie Long, was kicked off by Chris Goodall, whose presentation focused on climate change and how business can become ‘green’. Chris informed delegates that consumer attitudes are the key to driving climate change. Chris was followed by behavioural scientist Marc Atherton, who examined how businesses can influence behaviour change in their consumers. “Companies need to make it easy, desirable, rewarding and habitual for consumers to buy sustainable products,” he told delegates. Tim Pollard, Head of Sustainability at Wolseley UK, spoke about the issue of Circular Economy from the view of a merchant. Tim noted that“ If you accept
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BMA Matters
there are finite materials, that demand WILL exceed supply - the circular economy gains momentum”. Tim also spoke of how the circular economy could change entire business models creating new jobs, new business opportunities, save the manufacturer money and reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. Tim was followed by Sustainability Policy Advisor for Construction Products Association – Jane Thornback. Jane focused on Megatrends and how the competition for resources is not going away. Rising standards, urbanisation, globalisation and digitalisation are changing the world we live in – “The Circular Economy is really just an understanding of how we use resources.” Professor Margaret Bates, a leading professor of sustainable waste management at the University of Northampton spoke on how waste management fits into the Circular Economy. Noting that the European Economy could save £630 billion each year through better use of resources. Julia Hailes MBE, business consultant and speaker on social, consumer and ethical issues closed the afternoon session with a stirring account of how “businesses must be committed to eliminating negative impact to the environment” stating that sustainability is good for business with a need for industry to look hard at the role they play in society. The full day of presentations was brought to a close with a keynote from motivational speaker Steve Head. Talking about making the “1% difference” and how rather than do one thing 20% better we should strive to do 20 things 1% better. By the end of Steve's presentation the audience were left with the mind set of
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BMA Matters
being the best person they can be and one number in their minds…149! The day’s events concluded with the annual Gala Dinner and Media Awards. Paul Massey, the BMA President took to the stage to announce the winners of this year’s awards which had been democratically selected by the BMA membership. A post conference survey has revealed that 93% of people will attend next year… Will you be there?
The winners were: Best Trade Magazine Essential Kitchen & Bathroom Business Best Consumer Magazine Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms Best Trade Journalist/Editor Tim Wallace Best Consumer Journalist/Editor Ruth Bell Best Digital Contribution KBBDaily Best Exhibition Sleep
www.bathroom-association.org
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Get hands-on with Corian ÂŽ
CDUK training courses are available now Our team of trainers have been teaching fabricators the essential skills for over 30 years, they are well respected in the solid surface industry for their excellent knowledge and service levels.
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Financial Advice by Dean Flood
TAX & ACCOUNTANCY TIPS In this issue, Dean provides details on a few topical matters that relate to KBB installers. Auto Enrolment We are now seeing many more small and micro employers reaching their staging dates for compliance with the new Auto Enrolment legislation regarding pensions. Some of the smallest employers and recently established businesses will not have staging dates until 2017 but it is strongly recommended that you attend to matters in advance, where possible, and at least familiarise yourself with the detail of the legislation. Some incorporated businesses may only employ directors, and where those directors have no implied or written contract, the company may be able to claim exemption from auto enrolment on the basis that it has no ‘workers’. Certain procedures still need to be followed however and any businesses that do employ ‘workers’ cannot ignore this legislation. The Pensions Regulator (TPR) has warned that significant penalties will be levied for noncompliance. Self-Assessment Tax Returns The deadline for filing hard copy tax returns to HMR&C for the 15-16 tax year will soon pass. Any tax returns filed after 31st October 2016 must be dealt with online and must be submitted by the 31st January 2017. Any remaining tax due will also need to be settled by that date. It is advisable to not leave matters until the last minute, if only so that you have some advanced warning as to tax liabilities that need to be settled.
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Dean Flood Chartered Certified Accountant and Partner at Rowland Hall www.rowlandhall.co.uk Tel: 01375 373 828 / 01268 696 878
Christmas Parties You may have already booked the Christmas Party and for some employees they may be fortunate to be wined and dined at the employer’s expense. In such cases, the employer will not need to declare the cost as a benefit in kind if certain conditions are met such as the amount falling below £150 per employee and all employees being invited to attend. The employer can also recover the input VAT and claim a tax deduction for the net cost. Be careful if events include attendance by customers as this may create some disallowance for tax purposes. Bogus Emails and Telephone Calls With the increased digitalisation of the tax system, fraudsters are engaging in more complex practices to defraud taxpayers by way of email or telephone calls concerning their tax compliance. If you receive any unexpected calls or emails from HMR&C, do not immediately reply. The legitimacy of the communication can always be checked by speaking to your agent or contacting HMR&C through the contact numbers on their website.
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Insurance Advice
UNRAVELLING THE NEW INSURANCE ACT The iKBBI Installer magazine asks iKBBI Non-Executive Director Vince Linnane to unravel some of the intricacies of the new Insurance Act and asks how it will effect iKBBI members.
Do you think the Insurance Act was needed? Yes. This Act is intended to reform and modernise business insurance and aims to make recovery from insurers simpler and fairer in the event of a claim and takes account of case law. However, these benefits are dependent on the insured making a ‘fair presentation of risk’. This replaces the general obligation to disclose all material facts which will be applicable to disclosure before the contract is concluded, for new contracts and renewals, as well as midterm variations. This includes putting a prudent insurer “on notice” that it needs to make further enquiries whilst material information must not be deliberately withheld. This includes the practice of convoluted presentations and “data dumping” where disclosure must be “in a manner which would be reasonably clear and accessible to a prudent underwriter.” It is accepted that this would depend on the knowledge of the insured. An insured must now carry out a reasonable search for information, and what is reasonable will depend on the size, nature and complexity of the business. The insured will be deemed to know what “should reasonably have been revealed by a reasonable search” and so information
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held by management or by any other person with relevant information (even those outside the company, such as the company’s agents provided this is not confidential). However, this is not a one sided affair. The Act also creates a positive duty of enquiry for the insurer too. An insurer “ought reasonably to know” something if it is known to an employee/agent who ought reasonably to have passed it on, or relevant information which is readily available and held by the insurer and they would also be presumed to know things which are common knowledge or which they would be expected to know in the ordinary course of business. Worth highlighting, provided the above is adhered to, is ‘the pay back’: It will be possible to ‘avoid’ the policy only where the insured’s breach of the duty of fair presentation is deliberate or reckless and so the claim would not be paid and premium retained. In other cases the insurer a scheme of proportionate remedies will apply based on what it would have done had the presentation been fair. For example, if the insurer: 1. Would have accepted the risk but charged a higher premium, it may
Insurance Advice
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Insurance Advice
reduce any claim proportionately; 2. Would have entered into the contract on different terms (other than the premium), it may treat the contract as if it contained those terms; 3. Would not have entered into the contract at all, it may avoid the contract and refuse all claims but must return the premium. In your experience are insurers fair when claims are made? Collectively, iKBBI members will probably have a more accurate picture on how fair insurers are. The key word here is ‘fair’ provided everything material, that is reasonable, has been disclosed there should be no reason to turn down a claim provided it was covered under the terms of the policy. What do you think KBB companies will do differently, if at all, when buying insurance? Generally it depends on the size of the firm and the insurances they have in place. For the larger firms there seems to be an understanding that this can be a complex area and so basing the onus on a fair presentation of risk both on the firm and underwriter may lead to a more collaborative approach. For many firms they won’t have made a claim and wouldn’t necessarily been aware that reform was needed. If anything it may result in more interaction between firms and their intermediaries to ensure they’re getting value for money. What do you think of the new obligations for insurers to pay claims not related to failures by the
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policyholder to do something (e.g. install a working burglar alarm when a claim for flood damage is made)? This is good news as previously whilst claims could have been accepted as a ‘gesture of goodwill,’ there is now a foundation stone to rely on where there should be less uncertainty. Previously the slightest breach of a warranty could discharge cover but now this depends on the relationship between the claim and any breach. Where there is this non-compliance, the insurer can’t rely on this as a defence providing the insured can demonstrate that such non-compliance “could not have increased the risk of loss which actually occurred in the circumstances in which it happened.” As you mention an example could be for flood insurance, no doubt under a broader policy, where there was a requirement to install a burglar alarm. If this was not installed the insurers will be unlikely be able to refuse a claim on that ground for flood loss. But I’d express some caution as this could be a potential grey area, if only to raise a dispute, for example it’s argued that the flood could have triggered the alarm which could have led to the emergency services turning up sooner to mitigate any loss. Any other comments? The full impact of the Act still needs to be experienced and we’ll be watching carefully to make sure the KBB industry is well represented.
Choice. Quality. Service. Value. Working alongside leading manufacturers, our wide selection of kitchens covers everything from the country house look through to stylish and sleek contemporary ranges. Kitchens in our Studio, Autograph, Linear and Laura Ashley collections have been provided by a manufacturer who has achieved the FIRA Gold Award accreditation, which tests the workmanship, strength and stability, finish performance and the effects of atmosphere on a product. VISIT OUR WEBSITE:
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Social Scene
A refreshing bath ... literally!
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Product Portfolio
Aestus, causing a 'Furore' with its latest designer heated towel rail Aestus, leading British manufacturer and supplier of high quality design radiators and towel rails, adds to its collection with a new contemporary towel warmer, Furore. A truly inspiring design, Furore breaks the mould from traditional towel rails with high impact serpentine bars in a black pearl finish. Furore is also available in polished stainless steel, and comes in 3 different heights of 800mm, 1000mm and 1200mm. It has a width of 700mm and comes with 6, 8, 10 bar configuration depending on height. Furore has a heat output of up to 2409 BTU’s (706 watts) and prices start at £909.60 including vat. www.aestus.co.uk 01902 387080
Crosswater's modern neutrals: The new look for bathrooms Blending crisp, gloss white surfaces with tactile hessian textures and bohemian-inspired prints, the new trend for modern neutrals is the perfect scheme choice for bathrooms. Offering a combination of modern functionality and classic aesthetics, the contemporary Design furniture range features a spacious storage drawer, ideal for bathrooms with limited space. Coupled with elegant matte aluminium handles and smooth soft-close mechanisms, the vanity unit also comes complete with an inset white vitreous china basin and is offered in three sizes to ensure a fit for any bathroom. To complete the look, team with a stylish illuminated mirrored cabinet. Featuring integrated LED lights, sensor ON/OFF switch and internal shaver socket, the spacious interior storage capacity is ideal for stowing away toiletries and clutter to maintain the fresh look of a naturally modern bathroom. Visit www.crosswater.co.uk Tel: 0345 873 8840
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Product Portfolio MGS unveils its practical NEMO RHA telescopic kitchen sink mixer Through ongoing product development, leading Italian brassware manufacturer MGS, has expanded its collection of NEMO kitchen taps with the new NEMO RHA which features a highly innovative telescopic function. It should prove to be the professionals choice thanks to its cutting edge telescopic spout with 270˚ free tap rotation. NEMO RHA has a retractable body which freely elevates up and down; a useful feature if installed by a window or restricted sink area. Not only will this practical design allow for greater free movement, it will also result in a highly adaptable yet contemporary look. Controlled by a single lever, the NEMO range of kitchen mixers is designed so you can easily adjust the water temperature, flow volume and direction in one swift movement. Manufactured from 100% stainless steel, the NEMO RHA by MGS is priced from £279+vat. www.mgstaps.com 01772 698 111 Perrin & Rowe, announce its brand new finish, Aged Brass A brand new darker finish welcomed into the portfolio. Presenting a rich and deep aesthetic, the mellow aged patina of this newly introduced finish. Each tap component is meticulously treated in a compound that mimics the natural aging process to create its uniformly distressed surface. Versatile by nature, Aged Brass will complement the most simplistic shaker style kitchen and in complete contrast, an industrial style modern apartment. The Ionian sink mixer with crosshead handles and ‘C’ spout is the classical choice for any kitchen and can be found in Perrin & Rowe’s Kitchen Collection. Dramatic in design, the Ionian’s clear-cut form is visually pleasing whilst retaining its practicalness as it is supplied with a useful swivel spout and optional pull-out spray rinse. The Ionian retails for £460+vat. www.perrinandrowe.co.uk 01708 526 361
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Product Portfolio
Daval, launches its Salcombe Bedroom Furniture Collection Fuelling the trend for ‘painted’ interiors, Salcombe combines the best painted wood effect finishes with contemporary slab door fronts. This unique laminate door has significant design advantages when compared to a standard wood stain or particle board fascia. Delivering a greater consistency of colour thanks to its impregnable laminate surface texture. Highly scratchresistant, this exclusive laminate by Daval offers the look and feel of authentically painted furniture without the extra labour and lead time associated with hand-painted products. Its available in Dove Grey, Charcoal and Rough Cut Oak. www.daval-furniture.co.uk 01484 848500
Refreshing product launch from V-ZUG V-ZUG's highly innovative Refresh Butler makes creased, musty clothes a thing of the past! Fashioned with a premium selection of cutting-edge modes and functions, the V-ZUG Refresh Butler is an industry first for the UK being the only personal laundry assistance specifically designed for the domestic home. The Refresh Butler refreshes and dries clothes, eradicates odours, reduces creases and eliminates 99.9% of bacteria. The Refresh Butler is equipped with a variety of practical storage fixtures and fittings, such as the highly practical fold-down clothes rail, accessory basket and luxury hangers to name a few. www.vzug.com
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0843 289 5759
Product Portfolio Vogue (UK) introduces its NEW Bright Nickel and Brushed Nickel finishes A part of the Metallic Finish Collection, the new Bright Nickel finish (seen here on a Focus towel warmer and featured in the userfriendly Ladder Rail Collection) should prove a commercial success for Vogue (UK). Adapting to any bathroom setting, this model is available in a choice of five heights ranging from 800mm to 1800mm. Manufactured from high quality mild steel, the model shown features 22 cross rails and measures 1200mm high by 500mm wide. Designed to deliver a maximum heat output of 1146 Watts or 3908 Btu/hr, the Focus Towel Warmer in new Bright Nickel finish is priced from £396 including vat. Curved models are also available. www.vogueuk.co.uk 01902 387000
All-in-one; Liebherr’s SBSes 7165 Liebherr is renowned for its innovative range of refrigerators, freezers and wine cabinets. Encompassing all three of these aspects is the SBSes 7165. This unusual side-by-side fridge-freezer uniquely incorporates a wine cabinet, meaning that it showcases all of Liebherr’s specialities in one appliance. This fascinating model is designed to be practical and versatile, in addition to showstopping. The stainless steel SBSes 7165 measures H185.2xW121xD63cm and retails from £4,349. www.myliebherr.co.uk. 03330 147 888
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Education. Standards. Support. The Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installers (iKBBI) represents over 3,500 installation businesses across the UK, as well as a network of local, regional and national KBB retailers, specialist suppliers, distributors and manufacturers. This year, the organisation celebrates its 10-year anniversary and is hosting a number of regional events to demonstrate how KBB businesses can get involved, including an event at The Houses of Parliament. To find out more about an event near you, or how you can view live broadcast, please email denise.mayell@ikbbi.org.uk or call 01375 659 524. The Chief Executive and the board would also like to take this opportunity to thank its members, retail Installation Standards Partners, associates, supporters and members of the press for their support over the last decade. Your support has been invaluable and is immensely appreciated. Thank you.
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