Progressive Housewares March/April 2022 by Max Publishing: Print, Digital Media + Events (London)

March/April 2022

RE-BREWED FOR 2022 Authentic design by coffee experts for coffee lovers

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Our iconic salad spinner, now in glass

From kitchen to table The classic OXO Salad Spinner is now available in durable borosilicate glass. Featuring our one-pump design and patented brake for drying salads and greens with ease, the elegant glass bowl seamlessly transitions from the kitchen for prepping to the table for serving.

For more information: T: + 44 114 242 0405 E: info@oxouk.com www.oxouk.com IFC_HW_March April 2022.indd 4

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WELCOME

EDITOR’S COMMENT

Inset: PH’s Jo Howard met The Hairy Bikers on ESG’s stand at Spring Fair.

e are thrilled to bring you yet another jam-packed issue, bursting with industry views and inspiration, including our International retailer focus on the gia Global Honorees, Shelf portrait of Quince & Cook, and News about ways the industry has stepped up to support Ukrainians. There are lots of great insights from the latest PH Retail Barometer, with plentiful signs of buoyancy for independent cookshops and housewares retailers, including the continued support for local shops. As the findings reinforce, the last year has seen another marked shift towards online sales for indies. Of course, the shift to online also includes suppliers’ direct sales to the consumer, and, for the first time in 17 years of Retail Barometers, indies cited suppliers as their biggest threat. The massive impact of stock shortages and supply chain issues in 2021 may have exacerbated the competitive threat of these B2C direct sales. Sharing their views in the Barometer submissions, several indies highlighted the frustrations from customers’ admissions that unable to make purchases in their shops due to stock shortages, instead brought directly from suppliers’ websites. One area that retailers and suppliers have worked well together is in adapting their sales procedures to ensure all are compliant with the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 (OWA2019), well before the enforcement of its statutory guidance this month. However, the inclusion of cutlery (blunt table knives) has been a

confusing issue, challenged by many, including participants of BHETA’s Responsible Knife Sales Steering Group, at the forefront of discussions. Even on March 21, when the Expert Panel on Age Restrictions held a special meeting on the OWA2019, one Home Office representative said: “In terms of bladed products, we [The Home Office] had in mind larger knives capable of greater harm, such as chef knives, combat knives, hunting knives”. However, the wording of the law does not exclude blunt cutlery knives, and Bira has advised retailers to ensure age verified sales for all loosely sold cutlery knives. This has been a recent hot topic on HousewaresNews.net, our thrice weekly digital newsletter while the coming weeks will see exciting news about the launch of The Excellence in Housewares Awards 2022, as well as the gia Top Window Award 2022. It was a great pleasure to see Harrods receive its gia Top Window Award for 2021 at the gia Awards in Chicago last month. This coincided with The Inspired Home Show – one of this year’s joyfully received face-to-face shows (see News). Finally, our team line-up no longer includes the fabulous Emma Cain, who has left us after 20 years of commitment to the housewares industry, working on PH and The EIH Awards. Multi-talented Emma is now using her exceptional managerial and communication skills to be a driving force behind the scenes at the NHS. I am sure you will join us in wishing her every success in this new chapter in her life.

Max Publishing Ltd, United House North Road, London N7 9DP T: 020 7700 6740 F: 020 7607 6411 www.progressivehousewares.co.uk www.max-publishing.co.uk www.housewaresnews.net Subscriptions Subscribe online at Max-Subscriptions.net While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in Progressive Housewares, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions.

ISSN 2515-7493

@Prog_Housewares #HousewaresAwards22

MEET THE TEAM

editor JO HOWARD

editorial director JAKKI BROWN

editorial contributor SUE MARKS

publishing director ROB WILLIS

creative director MARK GRAYSON

advertising manager JOHN BARRY

joh@max-publishing.co.uk

jakkib@max-publishing.co.uk

sue@suemarks.co.uk

robw@max-publishing.co.uk

markg@max-publishing.co.uk

johnb@max-publishing.co.uk

PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

EST.

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CLASSIC GRADE ★ 25 YEAR GUARANTEE ★

EXCEPTIONALLY HIGH-QUALITY 18/10 STAINLESS STEEL SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE STAY COOL HANDLES THICK IMPACT BONDED BASE FOR EVEN HEAT DISTRIBUTION CAN BE USED AT HIGH TEMPERATURES AND RETAINS HEAT TO COOK FOOD EVENLY OVEN SAFE TO 210C AND DISHWASHER SAFE

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Dayes B.V. 6921 RN Duiven, NL | Dayes Ltd. Leiston, UK, IP16 4JD

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CONTENTS 36

45 21

50 48 WHAT’S INSIDE

6-13

News

BHETA news

Bira news

Holly Wilson’s From the frontline

Rainy Day Trust: Bryan’s Blog

25-33

Retail Barometer The Vital Stats Unveiled

36-39

50-53

Market Focus: Cookware

International Retailer Focus: The gia Global Honorees

Shelf Portrait: Quince & Cook Perth

48-49

Retailer Profile: Marks & Spencer

54-57

59-64

New products

60-61

Visibility New Products Galore

Market Focus: Barware and Glassware

SAVE THE DATE! #HousewaresAwards22

Wednesday 5 October 2022. Royal Lancaster Hotel, London PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

PH NEWS_March April 2022.qxp_5/7/8-9/13/15/16-17/19/20 10/04/2022 17:51 Page 6

NEWS

Brilliant Curated Meetings Denby Retail’s buying and events manager Erica Coombes was among those taking part in Spring Fair’s new ‘super-charged and game-changing’ Above: The Curated Meetings programme was Curated Meetings. Erica launched at Spring Fair. told PH that she had “found new products we would otherwise have missed.” Describing her experience as “brilliant,” Maritia Osipova, buyer at Wallace’s Homevalue & Garden Centre, Ireland said: “I’ve met with nine companies all in one day. It’s great, really energising. I’ll be placing orders and I would 100% join Curated Meetings again.”

TOP STORY

Spring Fair success Housewares exhibitors and buyers enjoyed a successful Spring Fair (NEC Birmingham February 6-9), described as “a truly extraordinary four days” by Julie Driscoll, divisional managing Above: Captivate Brand’s Tim director for Spring Fair & Moda. Yeadon with Yossi Gliksman of “There was palpable excitement in the atmosphere,” reflected Upstairs Downstairs. Below: Thumbs up from RKW’s managing director Rob Sutton. He elaborated: “I have RKW at Spring Fair. been exhibiting at Spring Fair for over 30 years now, and the number of visitors we had this year was truly unprecedented.” Launching 600 new products, Kevin McKay, md of Captivate Brands told PH: “We’ve never been so busy on a show stand and never written so many orders at a show, including lots of new accounts.” Likewise, Jenny Handley, head of marketing at T&G said at the show: “Retailers are happy to engage and see and hold products. We’ve opened a lot of new accounts as well as re-opening returning ones.” Meanwhile, at Ultimate Products, commercial director Jenny Stewart commented: “We were delighted to meet our dear customers in person and there was a great buzz on the stand.” Many buyers took to social media to express their happiness to be back at Spring Fair. “We were delighted to see much newness at Spring Fair to bring to you very soon!” tweeted independent cookshop Hargreaves & Son, Buxton, while Potters Cookshop, Hockley enthused: “Fantastic to be back at Spring Fair, sourcing lots of new, exciting and wonderful products.” Samantha Marshall, buying business manager at Leekes was among the enthusiastic throng, exclaiming: “So happy to be back at a busy Spring Fair. Great to see loads of beautiful newness.” Victoria Owen, senior buyer for Sainsbury’s concurred, stating: “Always love to see suppliers face to face, and meeting some in person for the first time!” (See linked stories).

Above: The Hairy Bikers chatted on the ESG stand.

Gift of the Year’s housewares finalists

The Hairy Bikers’ favourites “We’ve taken time to build a tried and tested brand with added value and a good price point – we want people to buy it and it’s got to last,” stated Dave Myers and Si King, aka The Hairy Bikers, launching a wide range of new products with ESG at Spring Fair. Testing each design personally in their own kitchens, Dave pointed out: “We use it all on a regular basis.” He enthused: “The new bakeware is great – it is so substantial,” with ridges “so nothing sticks.” Meanwhile, Si highlighted the new brightly coloured oven to tableware, which makes “food look really good,” as well as marble effect frying pans, “with a metal handle that can go straight in the oven and high sides for deep sauteing.” The Hairy Bikers were also excited to present their branded Naked Pre-seasoned Pure Carbon Steel range of cookware and bakeware, which builds up a natural non-stick coating as it is used and has a lifetime guarantee. “The carbon woks are really good for heat distribution,” said Dave. Longevity is something the chefs feel strongly about, as well as affordability. Noting the squeeze on personal finances in the current inflationary climate, Si emphasised: “It’s tough for families now, so our kitchenware has got to last.” Dave confided that he still uses his Mum’s Yorkshire pudding tin, dating back to the Second World War, commenting: “I like to think some of our stuff will be around that long.”

Relaunch for linen Ulster Weavers launched its new branding and contemporary kitchen linens at Spring Fair, as well as linen cloths, which hark back to heritage products for sustainable cleaning methods that appeal to today’s ecoconscious consumers. The company also showcased its sustainability plans, which include bringing more manufacturing back to Northern Ireland. New products include tea towels, tablecloths, aprons, oven gloves and bags with an eco-focus.

Innovative housewares and foodie gifts are strongly represented in the Gift of The Year (GOTY) 2022 finalists. Organised by The Giftware Association, the live judging day took place at Spring Fair. The six finalists in the Kitchen & Dining award are: Ambit Mugs and Beakers by Sue Ure Maison, Art in a Glass from Original Products, Halo Cotton Dish Covers by Clayspoon, Insulated Snack Pot by Puckator, Ocean Olive Wood Coasters by Samantha Lois Illustrations and The Tableware Collection from Concrete & Wax. Puckator’s ‘on the go’ innovations also feature in the Contemporary Gift category, where the Reusable Folding Water Bottle is a finalist. Meanwhile, Faye UK’s Eco Chic Thermal Coffee Cup is in the new International Award. The Pet Gift category is dominated by home baking, featuring three different kits to make homemade dog treats. The GOTY winners and highly commended products will be announced at The Gift Awards at London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel on Thursday 12 May. See www.thegiftawards.com Below: Judges looked at Kitchen & Dining entries at the GOTY judging during Spring Fair.

Above: The Ulster Weavers team presented an exciting array of new kitchen linen.

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NEWS

Liz joins Ride London

TOP STORY

Liz Lawson, md of Devon housewares retailer Lawsons has signed up for Ride London (May 29) to raise funds for The Rainy Day Trust. She says: “When I was offered a place by the Rainy Day Trust for Ride London to cycle 100 miles in 8 hours I jumped at the chance; not only is it a great cycling challenge but I Below: Liz Lawson is can help raise money preparing for Ride London. for a charity that can make a real difference to those who are struggling right now.” To support Liz, go to https://ridelondon.enthuse.com/pf/liz-lawson

Left: Eco Cool by Thermos UK.

New life for bottles Thermos UK has launched Eco Cool, a new range of sustainably designed lunch kits and cool bags made entirely from recycled PET bottles (rPET). Eight bottles are recycled to create each of the smaller cool bags, while the largest uses 27. Nick Kime, md at Thermos UK states: “Not only does this recycling use up to 50% less energy than making PET from scratch, but by reusing existing bottles it is also keeping waste out of landfill.”

Trends at Top Drawer Kitchenware and tableware were among the mix of on trend products curated by The Better Trends Company at Top Drawer (February 1922, London Olympia), including those addressing calming ‘Slow Rituals’ and boldly coloured ‘Positive Reinforcement.’ Meanwhile striking tableware from Concrete & Wax was among the conversation provoking products in the show’s Launchpad section. Top Drawer says it will build on the success of its new Meet the Maker sessions, which included celebrity ceramicist Keith Brymer Jones. Also attracting crowds, RetailFest gave expert inspiration and advice for businesses, covering a range of topics from product photography, digital marketing, and building brand loyalty. See www.topdrawer.co.uk

Left: Finding new products at Top Drawer.

Suppliers’ direct sales to the public is biggest threat to indies Some 62% of independents reported an upturn in trade in 2021 thanks to the continued rise of home cooking, new customers, the popularity of local shopping and increased average spends according to the findings of the PH Retail Barometer (pages 26-29). Now in its 17th year, the annual survey analyses data from independent cookshops and housewares retailers across the UK. Some 42% of indies are expecting to see business growth this year, while over half of the Retail Barometer respondents are positive about the next three to five years for cookshops and housewares stockists. The last year has seen a continued shift to online sales, with 41% of total sales of respondents occurring online versus 29% in 2020. It is no surprise that the most detrimental factor affecting business for indies in 2021 was stock shortages and supply chain delays. With stock scarcities, there has also been a groundswell of feeling about suppliers that are selling directly to retailers. In fact, suppliers’ direct sales are regarded as the biggest threat to independents. “Once again, The Retail Barometer provides fascinating insights into the Threat 32% 32% achievements and challenges of our independent sector,” states PH’s Direct Netural 4% 4% Jo Howard. action How do you view The product categories that saw growth housewares suppliers 64% Serious Threat 64% selling online direct to for the majority of respondents (60% and the public? 61% respectively) are knives and glassware (also featured in this issue, pages 40-41).

Suds up with Scrub Daddy Fans of Scrub Daddy are welcoming the brand’s new smiley-faced soap dispensing Dishwand to their sinksides. Like Scrub Daddy sponges, the FlexTexture foam head is soft in warm water and firm in cool for more cleaning power. The Dish Daddy joins the Scrub Daddy Family, along with its new Power Flower shapes and recently launched instant bestselling Damp Duster. Above: The new Dish Besides providing practical and cheery cleaning solutions, Scrub Daddy has Daddy Dishwands. also become a collectors’ item for some consumers. Lucy Childs, marketing manager for Evo Lifestyle Products (UK partner for Scrub Daddy) acknowledges: “We have customers who collect Scrub Daddies and keep them in their packaging and never use them!” • Evo Lifestyle and Scrub Daddy UK recently donated 23,000 Scrub Daddy sponges to In Kind Direct.

It’s the Bees Knees Dexam is adding new products to its Bees Knees collection, which contributes 2% of the retail price to the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. The Trust’s senior fundraising officer Tessa Brooks states: “Dexam’s support has helped the Trust to continue our conservation activities across the UK as well as developing and launching innovative ways to engage and inspire environmentally- minded people to take action.”

Delivering for Ukraine Ultimate Products is among the housewares company providing support for those fleeing from the war in Ukraine. The company arranged for its logistics partner De Boer Transport to take a lorry loaded with donations to Poland. The 33 pallets on the lorry included an entire pallet donated by UP employees along with donations gathered by The Ukrainian Centre in Manchester. Meanwhile, The Dexam Trust has made a considerable donation to The Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal led by the Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC). Bryony Dyer, Dexam’s managing director comments: “We are a people-orientated company and in times of crisis, we do what we can to support those who need it the most through The Dexam Trust.” John Lewis, Dunelm, M&S, Tesco, Asda and Ocado are among the major housewares retailers that have made monetary donations. Morleys Group is donating proceeds for the sales of its shopping bags. Meanwhile The Rainy Day Trust has asked its supporters and business partners “to keep collective ears to the ground” in case the charity can help refugees from Ukraine that have worked in the home improvement industry.

PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

NEW! The NEW Scrub Daddy Damp Duster is an instant bestseller amongst cleaning fanatics!

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Easy to clean – simply wash the sponge with water to remove dust and grime Perfect for use on blinds, vents, baseboard, railings, mirrors Requires no, or minimal, chemicals for a quality clean

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NEWS Below: PH’s Rob Willis congratulates Kelly Burrows, Dreamfarm’s head of international sales.

Dreamfarm’s gia delight Dreamfarm scooped two of the IHA Global Innovation Awards (gia) Global Honorees for Excellence in Product Design, presented in Chicago on March 5. The brand (distributed in the UK by Forma House) won The Kitchen Hand Tools + Cutlery Award for its Brizzle – a scoop and drizzle basting brush, as well as the Kitchenware Award for its Spina, a spin and strain colander. Cate McDermott, Dreamfarm’s special projects manager said: “It's incredibly special to be chosen as gia winners again, but we're especially proud to be the only brand taking home awards in two categories.” The company was also delighted to share the gia Awards spotlight with one of its stockists, Make Designed Objects (see pages 52-55). The other gia Global Honorees for Product Design included ZoomBroom’s Tornado (Cleaning), Jura Z10 (Personal Electrics) and Georg Jensen’s Sky Drinking Bottle (Sustainable Products)). Exhibiting in The Inspired Home Show’s Inventors’ Corner, The Wine Grasp Company’s wineGrasp Single won the Home Décor + Gifts category. Congratulating the winners, Derek Miller, IHA president and ceo commented: “Our world-renowned gia programme is the premier awards event in the industry, honoring excellence in both housewares retail and product design.” See TheInspiredHomeShow.com/awards/giaproduct

What consumers want Show highlights included the keynote presentation by Tom Mirabile, principal of Springboard Futures, and Leigh Ann Schwarzkopf, founder of Project Partners Network, discussing the 2022 Value Equation Index - new research about consumers’ purchasing. The research suggests that price is less important to consumers in 2022 than the previous year. Compared to 66% in 2021, in 2022, 47% of respondents said price was “extremely” or “very important” when considering the purchase of a home or housewares product. When it comes to convenience, the duo talked about “Endemic Urgency.” Tom stated: “Everything’s an emergency now.” Pandemiclevel services have become expected as the baseline, and the value of in-stock items is elevated. “Consumers are tired of the supply chain issue,” Tom added. “It doesn’t matter to them that it’s still an issue (for the industry).” For an audio recording of this and other presentations go to Theinspiredhomeshow.com/education/ #keynotes.

TOP STORY

‘Best show ever’ in Chicago “Buyers from 84 countries came to Chicago to meet with 1,016 exhibitors from 40 countries,” says Derek Miller, president of the International Housewares Association (IHA), reflecting on The Inspired Home Show (March 5-7 Chicago). “While the Show was smaller than in previous years, the benefits for those attending were tremendous.” UK buyers in attendance included Tesco, Sainsbury’s/Argos/Habitat, Harrods, Next, TK Maxx and Borough Kitchen. Lakeland was also out in full force, with buyers Ellie Jones and Amanda O’Rourke telling PH: “It’s been a joy for us to get back to trade shows and connect with the products, brands and people that we already know and enjoy working with - plus the ability to source new ranges first hand. A real reminder of the value of quality trade events.” Having come together in Chicago for the first time since 2019, many participants described the event as their “best show ever”, Derek Miller elaborates: “Many exhibitors expressed they connected with key retailers like never before,” while “retailers expressed that they found new companies, brands and products not seen in the past.” (See linked stories). The Inspired Home Show 2023 will be March 4-7 at Chicago’s McCormick Place. Right: Pantone ColourWatch display See TheInspiredHomeShow.com. at The Inspired Home Show. Below: Lakeland buyers Ellie Jones and Amanda O’Rourke at The Inspired Home Show.

New and Trending The Inspired Home Show’s popular New Exhibitor preview featured London-based W10, showing its Oxford Power Cup – a stainless steel vacuum-sealed cup with wireless charging and a detachable power bank. Spanish brand Roll’eat enjoyed its Chicago debut with its range of reusable wraps and bags with trendy designs (available in the UK through PHA KitchEssentials). Vaccaro, owned by Below: Our products have design couple Sheila and Joe Vaccaro, showcased a dishrack with a the ‘wow’ factor,” said pull-over ‘handle’ that you can slot the stems of wine glasses on to, sisters Meritxell and Anna Hernandez from Roll’eat. stand-up edged chopping boards and an expandable paper towel holder so it fits all sizes of roll. The theme for the Show’s Trending Today event was Healthy@Home, which included hydration but also brands with a sustainable angle like ChicoBag, with its to-go cutlery, reusable shopping bags and bottle holders (distributed in the UK by Whitby & Co). Meanwhile, Swiss brand Nuts Innovations featured vegan wraps as well as bees wax and eco-friendly food storage including denim-look bags.

Celebrating student innovation The Inspired Home Show’s reputation for showcasing outstanding innovation was exemplified by this year’s line-up of young designers in the IHA Global Innovation Awards (gia) Student Design Competition. The first place winner was Madeline Gerst for her WAVE UV-C Breadbox, Above: PH’s Rob Willis with which uses ultra-violet light to sterilise pathogens on the surface of bread, gia Student Design significantly extending its shelf life and eliminating the need for harsh Competition winner Madeline Gerst. chemical preservatives and single-use plastic packaging. Madeline told PH: “Globally, 900,000 tons of bread are wasted annually, which is around 24 million slices every day.” In joint second place was Rose Kirby for her Osmo Evaporative Refrigerator that uses only the power of water to store fresh foods in a cool and humid environment. Rose told PH: “Having a project that has no electricity at a homewares show feels like something to be proud of.”Austrian graduate Nikolaus Potapow shared the second place for his Rufus User Relationship for Extending Appliance Life. Rufus is a rotary-drive food mixer with several blender attachments, which can be repaired by the user.

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Visit fizzcreations.com or email sales@fizzcreations.com Fizz Creations, 6 Commerce Way, Lancing, West Sussex, BN15 8TA

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NEWS TOP STORY

Cutlery is age restricted

Above: A view of the Dining sector at Ambiente 2020.

Ambiente confirms new layout Returning from 3 to 7 February 2023, Ambiente has announced a new hall layout with its Dining section in the western halls of Messe Frankfurt across halls between 8 and 12. These include Cook & Cut, Clean Home, Kitchen, Accessories & Baking, Table and Table Select, HoReCa (including the HoReCa Academy) and Global Sourcing Dining. The show will continue to offer the biggest sourcing platform for volume business outside China. Ambiente 2023 will be held simultaneously to two other leading consumer goods trade fairs Christmasworld and Creativeworld. Under the new motto "Home of Consumer Goods," the redesigned offering promises a unique, comprehensive portfolio of products and solutions.

Enforced from April 6, The Offensive Weapons Act 2019 (OWA2019) has implications for retailers of kitchen knives and cutlery. Bira has issued a statement emphasising that retailers that sell loose cutlery knives should ask for 18+ age verification. The association also warns that Trading Standards and the Police are likely to be making more in-store visits to check age related sales. “Due to the way the legislation is worded, any item that could be described as a knife – including cutlery knives - are technically included,” sums up Steve Richardson, marketing manager of BHETA (which has coordinated and hosted the Responsible Knives Sales Above: Cutlery knives are technically age-restricted sales. Steering Group with leading suppliers and retailers and worked with the Met Police since 2019). He explains: “This has been the case since 1988 but largely ignored as irrelevant as most cutlery knives are not used in youth knife crime. The new OWA2019 regulations has reminded everyone that cutlery knives are technically an ‘age restricted sale’.” The Home Office has stated: ‘The legislation in relation to sale of bladed articles to under 18s is silent in relation to whether the blade is blunt or not. Therefore, a knife with a blunt blade or rounded end is still a knife and subject to age verification.’ However, BHETA has highlighted the views of Trading Standards representatives regarding blunt cutlery. Trish Burls, Trading Standards manager for the London Borough of Croydon has voiced the opinion of many members of Trading Standards departments and the Police, stating: “In relation to test purchasing of knives, a test purchaser in Croydon would not be directed to attempt a purchase of a piece of cutlery (ie a ‘table knife’ which tend to form part of a knife, fork and spoon set). These are not, in my opinion, appropriate items to test and I would struggle to understand … why anyone would think otherwise”. (See linked story on challenges of OWA2019 below).

Legislation will cause challenges

Above: John Lewis’ executive director Pippa Wicks.

John Lewis drops tagline After nearly a century in use, John Lewis is to drop its ‘Never Knowingly Undersold’ pledge this summer and replace it with ‘Quality & Value.’ The retailer will build on the success of its ANYDAY range - the most successful brand launch in its history - which includes housewares. It has promised a £500m investment ‘to give John Lewis quality at great value prices.’ “Customers are tightening their belts and we’re responding so John Lewis is more affordable for every customer, every day whether shopping in-store or online,” explains Pippa Wicks, executive director of John Lewis.

BHETA’s chief operating officer Will Jones acknowledges that the OWA2019 legislation “is undoubtedly restricting sales of new kitchen knives where retailers have taken them off sale.” Some retailers have been put off by extra costs for the installation of instore storage systems, staff training needs, and (particularly for those selling online), the cost of bespoke age-verified sales systems and age-verified delivery services. Importantly, highlighting the positive influence that the OWA is having, Will reports: “Undoubtedly retailers have improved their knife retailing practices which will minimise theft and reduce the number of underage sales. Both these outcomes are good for the retailers and society in general.” However, Will recognises that the extent to which the OWA will prevent knife crime remains uncertain, as the legislation cannot change the societal reasons for knife crime and the fact that millions of knives can easily be picked up in kitchens. “The limited data BHETA has seen suggests that the majority of knife crime involving kitchen knives is undertaken using items Above: There are an estimated 400+ sourced from the 400+ million knives estimated to be in kitchen million knives in kitchen drawers. drawers,” states Will. “Knife crime is relatively rarely undertaken using items purchased or stolen from retailers with that intent. BHETA does acknowledge that there are cases where recently purchased knives are used in crime, but they are few and far between.” Looking ahead, the enforcement of the OWA presents several challenges for online sales of knives in the UK, including the likelihood of price escalation to cover the cost of age verification systems. On the plus side, Will reflects: “With more people cooking from scratch, knife sales are currently holding up reasonably well, and many online retailers have had systems in place for some time.” Will points out that, with the enforcement of the OWA, it is a legal requirement for all online sales of knives to display a label on the exterior package stating: “contains a bladed product.” This could be problematic as it “advertises to criminals in the postal and courier industries which parcels to steal.” Competitively priced knives dispatched to UK consumers from other countries present a further challenge. “To stop online sales from overseas suppliers will require significant effort and intelligence from the UK Border Force and it is questionable whether the resources are available,” notes Will.

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Lexngo has a mission for the environment – a brand manufacturer in Singapore, which develops innovative products to reduce disposable and single-use items. Welcoming partnerships across consumer products, household necessities, gifts & promotions.

Lexngo has offices in Singapore and Hong Kong, production lines in China and Vietnam. With a great team of experts providing concept, R&D, small batch manufacturing, trial samples support, quality assurance, IP protection, products certiﬁcates, ASEAN and China Sales Channels development. The key elements that encompass Lexngo’s business motto of

BUY BETTER - BUY LESS. By incorporating innovative product design and the 3Rs –

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE. Lexngo was recognized for design excellence & creative innovation at the First Silk Road Women’s Innovation Design Competition 2017 and was awarded “Sustainable Product Supplier” in 2019 and 2020. MICROWAVABLE STAINLESS STEEL CONTAINERS

COFFEE GROUND PASSION CUP

l Stainless steel that can be safely used in microwave oven l Leakproof PP lids and removable silicone seal rings l Nestable design which helps save space l Lighter, safer, and durable l FDA & LFGB Foodgrade

l Made from used coffee grounds l Double wall insulated travel cup l Suitable for both cold and hot beverages l FDA & LFGB Foodgrade and BPA free

RPET CUTTING BOARD

SILICONE FOOD WRAPS

l Made from recycled PET bottles l Silicone corners on both sides for the board to stay ﬁrmly on all worktops l Hanging hole to allow hanging on hook l Juice grooves to reduce spills while cutting l FDA Foodgrade and BPA Free

l Silicone is non-toxic, durable, ﬂexible, and elastic. This is a reusable alternative to replace single use plastic wrap and foil. l FDA & LFGB Foodgrade

PLA CHILDREN LUNCHBOX l Uses sugar taken from plants and transform it into Poly-Lactic Acid (PLA) l Biodegradable, compostable & reusable l Customizable print on lunchbox cover l FDA & LFGB Foodgrade and BPA Free

E: carlotta@lexngo.com W: www.lexngo.com.sg w ww.facebook.com/LexngoASEAN w ww.instagram.com/lexngosg

PH NEWS_March April 2022.qxp_5/7/8-9/13/15/16-17/19/20 10/04/2022 17:47 Page 13

NEWS

NEWS IN BRIEF l Bedding and linen retailer Julian Charles

has announced ambitious plans to open 30 stores over the next 18 months, with a company-wide rebrand to Julian Charles Home. The company is expanding into housewares, with plans to become a distinctive destination for homewares . l The Keen Home Cook winner of Inspiring

Culinary Generations - the national cookery competition sponsored by Teflon non-stick coatings - is Sofia Gallo of Milton Keynes. Eight outstanding home cooks created their signature dishes for judges headed up by celebrity chef Lesley Waters on March 31. l Samuel

Groves’ British made cookware has been used on series 17 of BBC 2’s Great British Above: Samuel Groves’ Dominic Fraser. Menu. Lee McDonagh, managing director of Birmingham-based Samuel Groves states: “It’s an honour and a privilege for our cookware to be used and be seen by the very best chefs.” l OXO has won a prestigious Red Dot

Design Award 2022 for its Steel kitchen tools comprising Y Peeler, Swivel Peeler, Etched Grater, Slotted Cooking Spoon and Cooking Turner – all made from durable stainless steel with OXO’s signature non-slip grip. l Reusable was a buzzword at The London

Coffee Festival (March 31-April 3), whose supporters include KeepCup. Visitors with reusable cups were encouraged to sample coffee from various sustainable brands. l With an overall positivity rating of 83%,

ProCook has been ranked among the UK’s Best Workplaces for Wellbeing (2022) by Great Place to Work, a global authority on workplace culture.

Atkinsons’ 150 years Housewares stockist, Atkinsons of Sheffield is celebrating its 150th anniversary, with its long history recognised in a recent BBC news story. Having started out in 1872 as a small haberdashery on The Moor in Sheffield city centre, Atkinsons was bombed in 1940 and is now the city’s only department store after the closures of John Lewis and Debenhams. Recognising Covid-19 as the biggest challenge of the current century and praising his staff, managing director Nicholas Atkinson told the BBC: "We've adapted and changed enormously over the last few years.” In March, Atkinsons held an in-store only ‘£Million Anniversary Event,’ where customers were treated to special discounts over two weeks. These included 15% off purchases across the Cookshop department.

TOP STORY

DMD’s Diamond celebrations When it comes to product design, “You’re born with a touch,” says David Cowan, the founder and chairman of David Mason Design, celebrating its 60th anniversary. Claiming to be the oldest person in Hall 8 of the recent Spring Fair, David (now aged 90) attended the first ever Spring Fair in Birmingham and its precursors in Blackpool. In 1954, when in his early 20s, David took over Cole & Mason - founded by his father Julian in 1919 - and subsequently designed the world’s first clear Acrylic Salt and Pepper Mills among other innovations. With his sharp “eye for product”, David introduced the spice jar set in the late 1950s: the first wooden rack Above: DMD founder and chairman David Cowan and with jars filled with culinary herbs and spices. “We sold sons and company directors Richard and Nicholas with PH’s Jo Howard at Spring Fair. lots of these to TV prop companies and would see them on the kitchen sets in classic shows such as The Good Life and Morecombe and Wise,” David reflects. Establishing his new company David Mason Design (DMD) in 1962 (and eventually selling Cole & Mason in 1995, when Snowline Housewares was also acquired), David recognises decades of evolution within the housewares industry. A landmark moment was recognition for international success in 1986, when the company was presented with the Queen’s Award for Export. Meeting Prince Philip on his visit to the Palace, David noted: “We supplied the royal family with mills and Prince Philip enthusiastically picked one up when we were talking – he was a great character, and we had a long chat.” In the past 20 years, David acknowledges DMD’s growth in ceramics and tableware – with current bestsellers by The English Tableware Company and Ashley Thomas – and the establishment of an office in Hong Kong five years ago (which has bolstered the company’s strong links with its manufacturers). He enthuses about the Artisan Sunflower range, launched at Spring Fair: “It reminds me of France and seeing sunflowers turn their heads towards the sun.”

What More hosts Keir Starmer What More UK recently hosted a visit from Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour party and Lisa Nandy, the shadow secretary of state for levelling up. The visitors spent several hours at the manufacturing site in Altham. Sir Keir - whose father was a toolmaker and Lisa sought the views of a range of different employees, including ex apprentices, current apprentices and engineers in What More’s state of the art machine shop. "During the visit we underlined that manufacturing Above: The team at What More enjoyed isn't a political issue, but a national necessity and as such, talking to the Sir Keir Starmer and Lisa Nandy. should expect cross party concentration and cross-party support,” explains company director Tony Grimshaw OBE. “Sir Keir listened to this comment and was very interested to see what we do here and speak to lots of different team members.” • What More UK has acquired local toolmaker Canteen Smithy Engineering, boosting its manufacturing capabilities. The acquisition also brings the company towards self-sufficiency in its mould making.

Tributes to Hargreaves’ Cliff Coles Customers, fellow retailers, and industry colleagues have sent a deluge of tributes following the death of Cliff Coles, head of the family business, Hargreaves of Buxton, recognising that: “Buxton has lost a true gentleman.” His family describes Cliff as: “a stalwart of the local community, a pillar of the town and always ready with a cheery greeting and pride in his town, Derbyshire, and this shop.” Championing service, value and choice, Hargreaves’ Martin Coles-Evans says: Above: Hargreaves of Buxton’s “Now we carry his legacy onward, in loving memory.” Cliff Coles 1940-2022.

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00 BHETA.qxp_23 10/04/2022 14:37 Page 1

Conference highlights gains and perils of international trade Hosted by BHETA jointly with fellow trade associations Gardenex and PetQuip, The Future for International Trade Conference (March 17) focused on opportunities and challenges for housewares suppliers. Its presentations highlighted that, while export is likely to outperform the home market in the coming year, it is vital for both importers and exporters to ensure they are not dependent on any one territory for either sales or supply chain. Current and novice UK exporters gained insights on current challenges and opportunities, and advice on how to proceed successfully. Speakers included UK government insiders (covering the government’s current views on international trade opportunities and threats), market analysts, and legal, financial and compliance advisors as well as successful exporters. Above: A varied supply The key points were, firstly, that there is continued growth opportunity in chain has become vital. home and garden improvement, thanks to macro-factors such as home-based Photo by Tom Fisk. work and play, privacy, security and wellbeing. Secondly, it is likely that well-managed export will prove more buoyant than the home market in 2022/23, owing to the squeeze on disposable income in the UK. Thirdly, there is a crucial need to become less dependent on any one source, supply chain or geographic market as ‘economic warfare’ (ie sanctions and cessation of trade) becomes a reality across the world and not just in relation to the current Ukraine-crisis. Commenting on the significant opportunities for housewares suppliers “with informed good practice,” BHETA’s chief operating officer Will Jones said that the conference also demonstrated that: “while the challenges of Brexit remain, there are other hurdles being presented by the pandemic and by military and economic warfare that should be addressed urgently.” Urging suppliers to take a proactive approach, Will added: “These hurdles are surmountable but planning for a different world should start immediately for any UK company reliant on import, export or both.”

Membership grows with inventive brands The latest housewares companies to join BHETA include Queen’s Award for Enterprise winner Aydya and Italian brand Trebonn. New electrical members are Strix and Lloytron. A family business, Trebonn was founded by father and sons, Cesare, Federico and Niccolò Bonardi. The company’s mission is to reinterpret everyday objects by freeing itself from stereotypes and conventions and mixing innovative designs with enriched functionality. Its portfolio includes cooking pods, colourful kitchen knives and utensils. Based in Dundee, Aydya is an ethical company which owns and operates innovative brands (including Ion8 and Anysharp) that offer simple, high quality, value for money products. Its Ion8 leakproof water bottles have lockable hygienic spout safety covers and open with ‘one touch’ for spill-free hydration on the go. Anysharp has been hailed by users as ‘The World’s Best Knife Sharpener.’ New BHETA member Strix UK is the world’s leading Above: The Laica Dual Flo Kettle and manufacturer of kettle controls. The company is based in Chester One-Cup Dispenser from Strix will be with its head office in the Isle of Man as well as an SDA highlight at Exclusively. premises in Hong Kong and China. Formerly Castletown Thermostats, it became Strix in 1982. Strix now has a series of established partnerships with brands, OEMs and retailers and has a 38% global share of kettle control market. Exhibiting at Exclusively in June, Strix will be showcasing its consumer brands Aqua Optima and Laica, with award-winning water filtration and small electrical appliances. Meanwhile, new member Lloytron supplies household electrical products to the retail, wholesale, internet and mail order markets. These include kitchen SDAs such as air fryers, cooking pots, kettles and toasters. Working alongside its China and Hong Kong offices, the company sources from a global network of suppliers, focusing on imaginative products with outstanding value.

PROGRESSIVE

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Growing with Dobbies Dobbies’ chief executive officer Graeme Jenkins and chief financial officer Debbie Harding addressed BHETA members in the association’s latest retailer networking webinars on April 5. Graeme and Debbie’s covered Dobbies’ background history, its new ownership and Wyevale purchases, and its store refurbishment programme. The duo also discussed the impact of Covid-19, frustrations with ERP and payment issues, current trading, and their future vision for the business, including opportunities for housewares suppliers. The well-attended webinar followed the recent Meet the Buyer event with Very Group. Below: Jeremy Pang pictured with Dexam’s Bryony Dyer at Exclusively in 2019.

Jeremy Pang at Exclusively Celebrity chef Jeremy Pang from the School of Wok cookery school has become a business service provider member of BHETA with his video company Curious Crab Productions. Jeremy’s Curious Crab team will attend the Exclusively Show (Business Design Centre, Islington on June 14-15), working with BHETA and exhibitors. Curious Crab Productions specialises in food, drink and travel subjects, combining product animation with lifestyle film. Its objective, according to Jeremy, is to entertain and engage today’s audiences with irresistible video content for social media and online. At Exclusively, Jeremy and team will be helping exhibitors to create promotional material and developing content for the Show itself for use in 2023. • Exclusively 2022 will host over 130 companies and more than 300 brands. The show will include expanded versions of all its most popular features including the Brand Showcase, the trend tours, displays and seminar programme, and The Launchpad.

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17 Bira.qxp_23 10/04/2022 14:32 Page 2

Fuelling localism With the incredibly underwhelming Spring Statement which was revealed towards the end of March by chancellor Rishi Sunak, it's hard to see light at the end of the tunnel in terms of managing costs in a business, let alone at home. While the basic rate of income tax is being cut by a penny, from 20p in the pound to 19p, there Inset: Bira ceo Andrew was very little support for indie retailers, and Goodacre with Jayne limited help on rising costs to the business. Weldon, ecommerce manager for Neartoo There were support cuts in fuel duty and an increase in National Insurance allowance, however this was nowhere near enough to offset the 300% increases in energy, 100% increases in rates and double digit increases in the cost of employment. So, it is now the time to look at the sustainability plans to both reduce energy usage and to improve the customer proposition for the business. Increases in product costs are easier to pass on to the consumer, but these rising overhead costs are not, which ultimately means a very difficult year for small retailers. Retailers really need to start to push the link between driving sales both in store, and online, and showcase the importance to their community of shopping local. Bira recently launched its online trading site Neartoo.co.uk for this very reason: to support the High Street in getting back on its feet and driving more sales (see linked stories). Not only does the platform allow traders both on and offline to have more access to shoppers in their area, but for shoppers to also help them explore more local shops to where they live or are visiting - and encourage them to visit on foot, rather than by car. And most importantly, it helps in creating a hybrid model of working for all which is vital for the economy, while keeping their individual profiles and continuing to push local and independent. We want to help independent retailers trade up against other multinational online trading stores, help push sales, and increase footfall, which will ultimately help in all areas.

Andrew Goodacre, ceo, Bira (The British Independent Retailers' Association)

Neartoo’s national launch Bira officially launched its new online trading site Neartoo to consumers across the UK on March 7. Dedicated to independents, the unique site enables shoppers to find out what they are near to. It aims to help high streets recover from the pandemic by responding to consumer desires to support local shops. The Woodbridge Kitchen Company in Suffolk, Cutlers Home Store in Nottingham, Papyrus in Glasgow and Coppers Direct in Norfolk and Suffolk are among the cookshops and independent housewares stockists that have signed up to the platform. On launching the site, Jayne Weldon, ecommerce manager for Neartoo acknowledged: “It’s so important that we support the high street especially now restrictions have been lifted as it will give our local businesses that added boost they need to get back on their feet after what has been a very turbulent two years.” See neartoo.co.uk (and linked story).

Mixed thoughts on bounce back Bira gave a mixed response to the BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor for February 2022, which showed 6.9% growth for non-food on a likefor-like basis over the three-months to February. Welcoming the increased sales and the return of enthusiastic consumers to physical shops, Bira’s Andrew Goodacre also highlighted the uncertainty resulting from rising inflation, rising business costs and the war in Ukraine, and the “real pressure on consumer spending.” Despite the good figures at the start of the year, Andrew warned that the costs of running retail businesses could be rising at a faster rate than sales.

Inset: Outdoor drying by Beldray from Ultimate Products.

Fresh air thinking Independent cookshops and housewares stockists that are part of Bira Direct are enjoying offers that are part of the group’s Great Outdoors Campaign in its promotions hub. Member’s offers are updated on a weekly basis and Bira Direct users can get the latest promotions delivered to their inbox. The wide range of outdoor products include picnic ware from Dexam and laundry care, outdoor dining, cooking and entertaining products from Ultimate Products. Jeff Moody, managing director of Bira Direct comments: “Bira Direct’s Great Outdoors campaign is a fantastic opportunity for retailers to benefit from competitive offers from a wide range of suppliers. With new offers added to the promotions’ hub every week, it’s an unmissable opportunity to save money on all your product buying outside the home.”

Why we’ve signed up “We jumped at the chance to sign up to Neartoo,” enthuses Cathy Frost, who stocks Inset: Claire Leigh inside Two dining products along with home fragrance, Ducks, which is now trading ceramics and gifts in Loveone, Ipswich and via Neartoo. online. “It’s really important that small indies are able to have their profile raised and have a platform and extra voice out there. It will bring the High Street to more customers, especially if more people are working from home as they are facing blended working from the office,” notes Cathy. Claire Leigh, owner of housewares stockist Two Ducks in Woking concurs, stating: “Neartoo will give us access to a much wider national market through its marketing than we can afford ourselves and its commission is really reasonable for an independent store.” She adds: “The back-end of the system is really simple to operate, and we get exposure locally as well as more broadly.” Two Ducks has been trading via its own e-commerce website for over two years. Shops can sync their existing online sales platform or create their own through Neartoo in a costeffective way. With individual profiles for every retailer, the platform provides contact details and directions to independent shops. Meanwhile, shoppers can earn Neartoo Local Rewards that can be redeemed with all Neartoo Sellers.

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From the front line.qxp_Layout 1 06/04/2022 15:22 Page 1

Holly Wilson’s

From The Frontline

Spring is in the air

Inset: Sunny day at PREP Cookshop.

Isn’t it glorious to see the sun shining? It is certainly putting a spring in our step here at PREP and Richard Dare.

rade has started at a fairly sedate pace! We did our stock take and refurb at PREP, which, as ever, we got carried away with and did more than we thought. However, after seven years it was long overdue and now Inset: Inside PREP looks fresh and more Cookshop. spacious with the new layout. We also celebrated seven years of PREP, which seems to have gone in the blink of an eye! Lots of suppliers still remember me pushing baby Archie round in his buggy at Exclusively while I was planning my opening. We also did our stock take at Richard Dare at the end of which my longest standing member of staff Mayte moved onto pastures new. And there began the hunt for new staff at both stores. And I’m still searching, but hoping that I will have finalised someone new to join the team at PREP as I write this week. But gosh, it has been hard! So many businesses on the street are looking and there just doesn’t seem to be anyone around! We did find someone great to join the team at Richard Dare, so that was a relief, but I can feel the impact of Brexit strongly. We headed up to Spring Fair, but I have to say I was underwhelmed - sorry! It was busy and the stands we spent time on were doing a roaring trade, but we didn’t find anyone new who we aren’t already working with which was disappointing. And then due to staff

shortage and the proximity to half term I couldn’t make it to Top Drawer which I think was the first time. I’m holding out for Exclusively and M&O in September to give me lots of newness. Which brings me on to my resourcing drive which is ticking along. I have started to use Ankorstore and Faire as they are making it very easy to buy small quantities from suppliers outside the UK at affordable prices. Currently they are covering shipping and duty, so it makes it a no brainer for now. But that model is already changing so I’m making hay while the sun shines. As a stop gap it has been great to get some new and different stock in while I resource some of my bigger categories. One of the shops in Stokey organised a big donation drive for the Ukraine. It showed yet again what a wonderful place we have our store in. Over three days we collected enormous amounts of donations nappies, formula, sleeping bags, torches and batteries etc. The generosity was overwhelming and it took a team of us a whole day to sort. We collected a Luton van of supplies which we took to a central point that was then sending lorry after lorry out to Poland. Small things, but it

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made us feel like we are at least doing something. In Primrose Hill they are finally starting to take away the barricades where the restaurants were able to have outside seating. It was a lifeline for those businesses, but we are all rather sick of the sight of the red and white plastic eyesores and the locals want their parking back. Hopefully this will bring a few more folks back to the street who have been avoiding it because they can’t park. Overall, trade has been up and down. It has remained stronger in Primrose Hill with good figures so far, but PREP has been quieter. It is hard to pin it on any one thing in particular, but being low in stock hasn’t helped. We have just got to make sure that we can get enough stock in. Supply is still quite patchy in places which makes planning hard and managing customers’ expectations harder. But the sun brings out the browsers so let’s keep everything crossed that we continue to get a good dose of it! Left: Breakfast products in the window at PREP.

Holly Wilson is the owner of two award winning North London cookshops: PREP in Stoke Newington and Richard Dare in Primrose Hill.

The UK’s premier showcase of housewares, tabletop and small electrical brands Run by the industry for the industry

www.exclusivelyshows.co.uk

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Rainy Day Trust.qxp_Layout 1 06/04/2022 15:35 Page 2

BRYAN CLOVER IS CEO OF THE RAINY DAY TRUST, THE INDUSTRY CHARITY FOR THE HOME IMPROVEMENT AND ENHANCEMENT SECTOR.

BRYAN’S BLOG

COME ON YOU,

OUTSIDE

o you remember your Mum and Dad telling you to go and play outside because the fresh air is good for you? Have you said the same thing to your own kids? Well it turns out it’s pretty much true, but not in the way that they thought. Then it was all about not being cooped-up indoors. Now we know that the mere act of walking, just putting one foot in front of the other, works in a completely different way. It helps our brains to process and understand stress in particular. Neurons fire back and forth. The left side of the brain working the right side of the body and vice versa. Whether you believe that life is more complicated now than it used to be doesn’t really matter. What does matter is that we understand why walking is good for us. We understand that something so simple can make a difference. At the Rainy Day Trust we have been running our MadMarchMillion as a fundraiser, getting small teams out there every day to run, jog or just walk their 10,000 steps a day, all adding up to 1 million steps by the end of the month. We did it last year and every team that took part said that when the month was over, they missed being compelled to get outside for a bit of exercise. For me, walking has always been a bit of a sanctuary. It is a place where my mind empties of everything that is worrying it. I just take in what is going on around me; the

Do you remember your Mum and Dad telling you to go and play outside because the fresh air is good for you? Have you said the same thing to your own kids? Well it turns out it’s pretty much true, but not in the way that they thought. wildlife, the weather, the road, the people going the other way. It is a way to buy some peace, not just from work or background noise, but from the stress and pain in my head. I’ve never hidden the fact that I need a multitude of coping strategies after my daughter died, and walking and longdistance hiking are just that; a way to cope. I can probably drag up a whole bucketload of statistics and data from some PhD student somewhere, backed by some whizz-bang-neuro-science on how it works, but you know what, for me it does work. I do relax and that is good enough. There are the physical benefits too which are just a bit more grist to the proverbial mill – you burn about 100 calories a mile, more if carrying a load or going uphill. So, to put some value to that, a two-hour walk burns through a couple of pints of beer. Do that every day and pretty soon, you will be toning up the muscles in your legs and you generally feel better about stuff. You’ll feel better about yourself too

which is incredibly important. The quiet benefit though is that your brain will be quietly processing whatever is niggling away at you and you’ll think clearer too. You could join in our next MadMarchMillion if you wish and help us raise the money that we need, or you can just head outside and go for a walk. Maybe leave the car behind when you need to post a letter or buy the milk that you forgot earlier that day. It doesn’t matter what the reason is, just give it a go. You never know, you might just enjoy it! Blimey, now I do sound like my Dad!

All businesses in the housewares sector should be aware of what the RDT can offer. Whether you can support us or use our services – which are there for your teams, please do find out more about us at www.rainydaytrust.org – or contact Bryan directly – bryan@rainydaytrust.org

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PH RL DPS 2.qxp_Grid 19/04/2022 15:02 Page 1

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

GLOBAL VISION RL Industry, a leading Hong Kong manufacturer of high quality, non-stick bakeware and cookware, has been supplying major retailers and multinationals on a global stage for almost 20 years, with the company currently looking for further expansion in the UK. Progressive Housewares caught up with co-founder and managing director Daniel Aharon to hear more about the company’s latest launches and plans for 2022.

ust shy of two decades, RL Industry is continuing to go from strength to strength, achieving an immense global reach thanks to its wide range and variety of products which are constantly evolving. The company was co-founded by Lily Zheng and Daniel Aharon in 2003, when they discovered a small bakeware and cookware factory that was not doing well financially and decided to purchase it. “I not only saw great potential for the company, but recognised that I could bring my vast experience in the houseware industry to turn the business around,” explains Daniel. “Since then we’ve been investing in, and developing a wide range of fresh, new products to bring to market. Through our presence at major international housewares trade fairs such as Ambiente in Frankfurt, The Inspired Home Show in

Inset: The Advanced range. Below: Classic Cookies.

Chicago, and the Canton fairs, we’ve come into contact and built relationships with some of the biggest names in housewares retail.” He says that right from the very beginning, the objective has always been to give value to RL’s international customers, providing them with quality cookware and bakeware that’s exceptionally durable, while maintaining the highest standards of eco-friendly and environmentally safe materials. “We have perfected the

New 2022 Launches RL Industry’s exciting launches for 2022 include a large range of cast aluminum fluted tube pans as well as a newly designed heavy gauge range of bakeware. “We are launching many more lines throughout the year, so keep an eye out for them!” enthuses Daniel. In addition, the company is very excited to have recently received the licence to manufacture and sell bakeware under Oreo’s brand, with plans afoot to launch two new Oreo bakeware ranges later this year.

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use of carbon steel, aluminised steel and aluminium in our bakeware,” states Daniel. “Across both bakeware and cookware, we constantly look to add value, as well as bringing the newest and best technology, designs and concepts to all our products. We offer a vast range to satisfy bakers of all levels, from amateurs to professionals, with the objective being to make products that everyone will enjoy using.” Staying with amateur bakers and cooks,

PH RL DPS 2.qxp_Grid 19/04/2022 15:02 Page 2

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE for many people, baking and cooking became a vital, important part of the day during the pandemic. “Because of the lockdowns, when people were not allowed to go out to work, or to socialise, the home became a focal point, with restaurants too, having to close their doors,” comments Daniel. “Consequently, this led many households to turn their attention to home cooking and baking, with people increasingly seeing it as a hobby and a form of entertainment, rather than as a necessity.” Continues Daniel: “Furthermore, as there were many layoffs due to the financial effects of the pandemic, home cooking was also a way to effectively save money during this period. These factors, along with the very strong growth and trend of homemade baking on social media, has very much strengthened our global sales,” he confirms. In terms of the company’s most popular products, Daniel points out that with RL currently selling to more than 90 countries, with each country’s market having different tastes and preferences, there are nevertheless basic items that are popular everywhere, to include baking sheets, roasters and springforms. “All I can say is that during the pandemic, everything was selling like hotcakes!” he quips. In addition to overseeing worldwide sales, Daniel also oversees product development. “I’m always looking to see how we can create the best, freshest, contemporary products for our customers, as well as satisfying their everevolving needs,” he confirms. “We invest substantial resources in research and development, and work hard to meet changing market demands.” Currently, RL is working with several major retailers in the UK – Tesco, Asda, Wilkinson, B&M and Costco among them - to bring more of the company’s products into the British market. “There are many bakers who would love our products,” Daniel stresses. With global climate change a strong concern for many around the globe, RL is putting a big emphasis on eco-friendly and safer to use kitchenware. “All of our products are safe to use and fully comply with international regulations and standards,” confirms Daniel. “As a business, we are constantly evolving and looking for more environmentally friendly ways to make not just our products, but also our production

Above: Amour fluted tube pan. Right: Daniel Aharon, RL Industry’s co-founder and managing director.

more eco-friendly. For example, we are now developing safer and more environmentally friendly ceramic coatings for our bakeware with ILAG, and are also replacing polybags with paper for our packaging, which is natural and biodegradable, to address these current trends.” In addition, the company is always looking to improve technologically. “Our new production facility incorporates the latest technology to promote both safe and efficient production across the board. We have implemented automated coating lines and unmanned pressing and punching lines to eliminate on-site injuries and achieve a higher quality and consistency of products,” Daniel highlights.

Above: Oreo Bakeware Line.

As for ongoing challenges, he says that the most significant remain global logistics and supply chain management, along with raw material cost increases, due to Covid, affecting all industries around the world. “Despite this however, we are continuing to offer competitive prices to assist our customers during this challenging time,” confirms Daniel. Meanwhile, the company is looking forward to being able to explore and reach more Inset: Deep cup muffin tin. customers and international PROGRESSIVE

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Daniel Aharon: The Lowdown l What’s your career background? “I’ve been in the housewares industry for almost 30 years and founded RL 19 years ago. Prior to that I was a general manager and shareholder of a large housewares importer in the US for ten years.” l What do you enjoy most about working in the cookware and bakeware industry? “I’m very creative and love the process of the development of new products. From conceptualising and designing to engineering, and all the way to production, it’s a really amazing process that I never get tired of. “I also love filling gaps in the industry, whether it be with new features, new combinations, new materials, etc. I love being able to provide customers with the freshest and best products possible, and am always on the lookout for what’s new.” l Are you a home cook/baker? “To be honest, I’m very dedicated to work so I don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen, but I absolutely enjoy home cooked meals with my family made, of course, with our own RL products.”

markets with Baker’s Secret, a brand that the company acquired two years ago. Currently celebrating 50 years, the brand has a strong, rich heritage. “Along with our recent licensing partnership with Oreo, Baker’s Secret affords us a great opportunity, as there’s a huge global market that loves the iconic cookie, as well as baking,” Daniel points out. Summarising, he emphasises: “As always, our aim is to bring excellent quality bakeware and cookware to consumers on a worldwide stage – product that’s both affordable and enjoyable to use. Plus, we see all our customers as business partners who are very much a part of the RL family.”

I N T RO D U C I N G T H E A C A C I A R A N G E Cole & Mason brings the potency of nature to your home with a new range of high quality acacia wood kitchen essentials. The new range is beautifully designed with clean lines and features a tablet/recipe book stand and specialised boards for chopping and carving. Progress Lunar half page HR.pdf

02/03/2022

Available now from DKB Household Ltd. 14:45 Contact us on: 01252 828055 or email: cust.serv@dkbrands.co.uk

Introducing...

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THE 2022 RETAIL BAROMETER READINGS

LOCAL

HEROES

Inset: Home cooking boosted sales for 81%.

The continued rise of home cooking and baking, the Shop Local mantra, new customers and increase in average customer spend all contributed to 62% of indie cookshops and housewares retailers reporting an upturn in their trade in 2021 compared to the year previous while 42% are expecting to see further growth this year. These are among the findings of PH’s 17th Retail Barometer, which gathers responses from independent cookshops and housewares retailers from different locations across the UK. Indies were asked to reflect on 2021 and look forward into the year ahead, creating a fascinating picture of another exceptional year of challenges and opportunities. BRICKS AND CLICKS

GROWING GAINS

According to the findings of PH’s previous Retail Barometer, 64% of Matching the previous Retail Barometer, 68% of this year’s respondents sell online (to varying degrees, with just 5% purely online). A quarter independent cookshops and housewares retailers were anticipating of respondents have started to sell online over 2020 and 2021. growth for their business in 2021. Happily, this number pretty much However, there has been a further shift towards online sales in 2021 when 41% of sales of Retail Barometer respondents were online matches reality, with 62% saying that their overall trade was better in and 59% in physical stores, compared to 29% online and 71% in 2021 than in 2020 (see comparison table). In fact, this is the highest stores in 2020. upward swing for growth; looking back over previous Retail Barometers, the nearest to this figure was the 52% who experienced growth in 2010. Going into more detail, the cookshops and housewares stockists who said their business was better in 2021 were up 24% on average, while those who saw a decline were on average said they experienced a decline in sales. Moreover, 41% said sales Inset: Part of a bright 12% down. declined significantly over this period. window display at Rossiters, Bath. Completing the survey during On the upside, the rise of home cooking and baking has continued to the first half of March 2022, of have a positive impact on housewares retailing. Of course, the course independent retailers have experienced another extraordinary phenomenon started in 2020’s lockdowns and an overwhelming 81% year, shaped by the Covid-19 pandemic. The lockdown between saying that home cooking and baking also increased sales in 2021 (see January 2021 and reopening dates in April 2021 saw the closure of the Home Cooking pie chart). most physical There is also positive independent cookshops news about average How has your business fared over the last year? and housewares spends. These are PH looks back at five years of Retail Barometer data: stockists. When asked continuing to increase about the impact of this for most respondents: 2021 vs 2020 2020 vs 2019 2019 vs 2018 2018 vs 2017 2017 vs 2016 lockdown, over half 23% say these have Better 62% Better 39% Better 37% Better 26% Better 31% (55%) of Retail risen significantly and Same 14% Same 15% Same 26% Same 28% Same 16% Worse 24% Worse 46% Worse 37% Worse 46% Worse 53% Barometer respondents a further 45% report a PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

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07/04/2022 14:13

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THE 2022 RETAIL BAROMETER READINGS

THE POSITIVES: REACHING

Right: Consumers have carried on baking. Image shows a display at independent housewares stockist Quince & Cook (see page 45).

NEW CUSTOMERS The trend for shopping locally tops the chart of positive influences for the second year running. Half of the independents in the survey say this was the main or second strongest factor that had a positive bearing on business last year. Website (ecommerce growth) moves up from third to share second place with Government support (such as the furlough scheme, business rates freeze, loans or grants) and was the top positive factor for 36% of respondents. New customers leapt from ninth position in the previous Retail Barometer to fourth place, above the increase in home cooking and baking. Of course, the rise in home cooking has doubtless prompted new customers. Click and collect stays in the same place at number six. This shopping option Above: New shoppers have enabled many independents to serve their been a positive factor. community during lockdown months. Interestingly, there is a new entrant in the top ten positive influences reflecting consumer demand: the ‘shift toward gift-able cookshop products’ shares seventh place, along with social media (dropping from fifth place) and promotional activity. In many ways, this list reflects the extraordinary impact of the past two years. Looking back at the Retail Barometer survey that was completed just before the pandemic (reflecting on 2019), the top three positives were eco-friendly products, new customers and staff. Prior to that, staff topped the list in the Retail Barometer that referred to 2018. The last time that new housewares products appeared in the top ten list of positive influences was in the pre-pandemic Retail Barometer, as the seventh most beneficial factor for business back in 2019.

small increase in basket values in 2021 (see Relative Values pie chart). Moreover, these positive figures build on the increases of the previous year, when 26% had seen significantly higher average spend and 50% had seen slightly higher. Unfortunately, independent cookshops and housewares stockists were substantially hit by stock shortages and supply chain problems in 2021 (see The negatives). Meanwhile, the strength of feeling has grown markedly when it comes to suppliers who are selling directly to the consumer (see Feeling Threatened section). It is against this backdrop of challenges and opportunities that Retail Barometer respondents came up with a wide variety of words when asked for one term to describe the UK housewares industry today. The most common descriptor is “challenging” or “challenged” followed by “uncertain” or “unpredictable.” Negative adjectives include “struggling,” “stuck,” “weak,” “inconsistent” and “selfdestructive.” The word “boring” sounds like a plea for some newness. Upbeat descriptors include “friendly,” “supportive,” “solidarity” and “resilient,” while the word “essential” (followed by exclamation marks) sums up the reaction of many indies to the classification of cookshops and housewares stockist as non-essential during the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021.

Independent view: “We are up on the previous year partly thanks to our investment in higher levels of stock. We are also a tourist destination, so we had more visitors who were staycationing rather than travelling abroad. I don 't think we'll see the same numbers of visitors in 202 2.”

Same 18%

18% 14%

Declined 14%

Relative values How did the average spend per customer in 2021 compare to 2020?

45%

23%

Increased significantly 23%

Increased slightly 45%

Marginally Increased 29%

29%

14%

Home cooking

g to see Independent view: “It will be interestin rs’ ture how profits are impacted by manufac y itabl inev price increases in 2022. Margins will ling trave shrink. As people go back to work, start to s start again and the increased cost of living hit, will they still choose to spend locally?”

No influence 5%

What impact has a rise in home cooking and baking (resulting from the pandemic) had on your housewares sales?

52% PROGRESSIVE

Increased slightly 14%

HOUSEWARES

Significantly increased 52%

Advertorial RL Industry.qxp_Grid 19/04/2022 14:58 Page 1

ADVERTORIAL: BAKER’S SECRET Inset: Baker’s Secret Cast Aluminum Collection. Below left: Daniel Aharon, RL Industry’s cofounder and managing director. Below: Baker’s Secret Superb Collection.

CELEBRATING

50 YEARS

Bottom: Baker’s Secret Enhanced Collection. Bottom left: Baker’s Secret Granite Collection.

In 2020, RL Industry purchased acclaimed nonstick bakeware brand Baker’s Secret, which is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary. RL’s co-founder and managing director Daniel Aharon, tells Progressive Housewares why the brand is a perfect fit for the company.

was the appeal of Baker’s Secret’s Q What Q What’s Baker’s Secret to USP? What makes it RL Industry? “Since I started my business Baker’s Secret was an iconic brand that I wanted to produce to, and I had always imagined that one day I would own the brand. When the opportunity arose, I knew it was the right thing to do. The company was founded in 1972 by ECKO - a long established Chicago bakeware production company whose roots go back to the 19th century - with Baker’s Secret a household name since its inception, specialising in non-stick bakeware for homes around the world.”

does Baker’s Q How Secret fit with your other brands? “We have had licensing for Betty Crocker for five years, and recently acquired the licensing for Oreo to offer a range of bakeware brands.”

stand out head and shoulders in the bakeware market place? “We have, by far, the largest range of kitchenware which suits all types of bakers, from novices to professionals. We also provide the newest and freshest concepts, with the latest innovations in design and technology. We strive to give our customers the best product possible.”

the secret of Q What’s Baker’s Secret’s success and longevity? “With its heritage and quality, people always remember it as being passed down from generation to generation. At RL, we constantly keep up with market trends, along with new technology, fresh designs and new coating.”

are you Q How celebrating the brand’s 50th anniversary this year? “We have huge promotions and lines ready to be launched for this spectacular year, with newly designed collections coming out every month for the rest of 2022.”

PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

have you Q What launched so far? “We’ve already launched a beautiful fluted tube pan collection with many gorgeous designs, along with a heavy gauge bakeware range. With ILAG Coating we are also developing safer and more environmentally friendly ceramic coatings for our bakeware, and are also replacing polybags with paper for our packaging, which is natural and biodegradable, to address current trends.”

25-27-29-31-33 Retail Barometer 2022.qxp_Grid 06/04/2022 15:49 Page 5

THE 2022 RETAIL BAROMETER READINGS Inset: Shipping issues have had a major impact.

What were the main factors that had a positive effect on business in 2021?

THE NEGATIVES: IN SHORT SUPPLY In the chart of negative influences on independents’ business, the overwhelming factor has been stock shortages and supply chain issues. This knock-on effect of the pandemic has meant shortages around the globe, although for the UK, post-Brexit procedures and adjustments have added to some delays. Hence 86% of respondents cite stock shortages and supply chain issues as their first or second ‘main factor that had a detrimental effect on business in 2021.’ One respondent highlights a recent problem with quality, as – in their view manufacturers “are rushing to produce or using new factories.” With Covid-19 in third place, price increases – a new entrant to the list – is the other major negative factor: half of respondents cite this as the foremost or second most significant ‘negative’ for business in 2020. When it comes to competition, suppliers’ practice of selling directly to consumers is by far the most mentioned. Regarded as less detrimental, competitors’ websites drop down the chart to ninth place (from fifth and second places in the previous three years of Retail Barometers). Housewares in garden centres and supermarkets (classed as essential retailers during Covid lockdowns) were considered more detrimental than competitors’ websites in 2021, but less than suppliers’ direct sales. Despite the power of Zoom and Microsoft Teams, face-to-face meetings are deemed worthwhile for an indie’s business. Visits from sales reps and agents were missed during 2021, with this cited as one of the detrimental influences on business last year.

SHIFTING PRIORITIES When it came to making changes, 76% developed their websites in 2021, which continues the upward trend highlighted in the previous Barometer when the figure was 65%. Over half of the Retail Barometer respondents (52%) have had partial refits (for example, new shelving) in the last year. A third have forked out for new computer equipment, and nearly a third have invested in new shop signage. Talking about getting noticed, web advertising has grown: half of the independents in the survey engaged in this way in 2021 (compared to 26% in the pre-pandemic Retail Barometer, which reflected on 2019). Collaboration with other retailers also continues to gather momentum as a means of promotion, involving more than a third (compared to 20% in the pre-pandemic survey). There was more involvement with traditional promotions in 2021 (an understandable come-back following the restrictions and closures of 2020). Participation in press advertising, leaflets and discount promotions were all up compared with 2020. However, none of these have yet returned to their pre-pandemic levels; for example, 49% of Retail Barometer respondents did press advertising in 2019 (compared with 32% in 2021), and 69% did discount promotions (compared with 50% in 2021). Social media remains the most popular means of promotion for indies, as it has been in the previous two Retail Barometers. Facebook stays top of social media platforms, used by 55% of respondents. However, it is losing share to Instagram, now used by 45% (up from 26% in the last Retail Barometer).

PROGRESSIVE

1 – Shop local trend 2 – Government support 3 – Website (ecommerce growth) 4 – New customers 5 – Increase in baking and cooking at home due to lockdowns 6 – Click and collect 7 = Social media 7 = Promotional activity 7 = Shift towards gift-able cookshop products 10 – Enhanced window displays 11 = Staff 11 = Diversification outside housewares

What were the main factors that had a detrimental effect on business in 2021? 1 – Stock shortages and supply chain issues 2 – Price increases 3 – Covid-19 4 – Suppliers selling directly to consumers 5 = Housewares products in supermarkets 5 = Housewares products in garden centres 7 = Other Brexit related issues (eg extra paperwork) 7 = Lack of visits from reps/agents 9 – Competitive retailers’ websites 10= UK economy/inflation 10= Lack of trade shows 10 = Housewares in discount/deep value retailers

Independent view: “It would be great if independents could be highlighted and celebrated more as I still believe we are the heart of the industry.”

Getting noticed What promotions and/or advertising did you run in 2021? (with % of those engaged in them, and comparison with 2020)

1 – Social media 73% (similar to 74%) 2 = Web advertising 50% (up from 44%) 2 = Discount promotions 50% (up from 38%) 3 - Collaboration with other retailers /businesses 36% (up from 32%) 4 = Press advertising 32% (up from 26%) 4 = Free gift promotion 32% (up from 23%) 4 = Leaflets 32% (up from 24%) 5 - Competitions 27% (up from 21%) 6 = Loyalty cards 18% (down from 29%) 6 = Charity fundraising 18% (new)

Independent view: “We are a little disappointed as to the number of suppliers whose sales teams (both telephone and physical) are still working from home. Getting answers to queries is taking ages. Meanwhile, we (their customers) have been out there with the Covid ridden public for almost two years!” HOUSEWARES

PLAN YOUR 2022 MARKETING NOW! The features list is now set for Progressive Housewares in 2022 – you can find this at ProgressiveHousewares.co.uk or contact us to find out more.

Don’t forget, HousewaresNews.net is the NEW digital resource to the trade. Since launch it has generated huge open rates.

STAYING AHEAD.

Plus, plans are afoot for the Excellence in Housewares Awards 2022, with plenty of opportunity to be involved. Get in touch to find out how we can help make it a great year ahead for your business.

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CH_2101_AZ_003_Teflon_Advert_UK_ProgressiveHousewares_RZ_92x271.indd 1 30_HW_March April 2022.indd 1

Advertising and commercial opportunities: John Barry advertisement manager johnb@max-publishing.co.uk

Editorial and content opportunities: Jo Howard editor joh@max-publishing.co.uk

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THE 2022 RETAIL BAROMETER READINGS

Below: Indies are reusing packaging for customer orders.

Inset: Wax Lyrical’s Botanic Garden infuser.

SPOTLIGHT ON SECTORS

SUSTAINABLE SELECTIONS For independent retailers, sustainability continues to be key to business practises. Some 73% ordered products that reduced single-use, continuing the momentum over the previous two years. Half of respondents are improving energy efficiency in their shops; the figure has nearly doubled from the previous Retail Barometer. Some 64% are using paper bags; again, up on the previous year. The number of independents who are ordering products with less packaging has grown from half to 59%. Moreover, 41% state they are ordering products with less carbon footprint. One retailer is: ‘Reusing vendor packaging for customer orders, and shredding cardboard into filler material for consumer orders.” Another respondent highlights: “I will be challenging my suppliers on their supply chains and packaging.” Meanwhile, half of the independents in the survey say that environmental concerns made a marginal influence on consumer choices in 2021 (similar to 54% in 2019) and 14% think they made a significant influence. The latter was down from the prepandemic 31% in 2019, when eco-friendly products topped the list of positive business influences and appeared to be more noticeably front of mind.

WISHFUL THINKING If independent retailers were given a magic wand with the chance to change just one thing about the housewares industry, the most frequent wish (for 35%) is to stop suppliers selling directly to consumers. One respondent exclaims: “Stop suppliers selling against us; they aren’t suppliers for long when they do.” This comes above sorting out stock shortages and shipping delays. Compared to previous years, there are notably fewer mentions of wishing away internet sales or eradicating online price slashing. Varied wishes include “tax Amazon proportionately in the UK,” “more UK manufacturing,” “reverse Brexit,” “declare housewares as ‘essential’ to our day-to-day life,” “stop selling cheap goods in cheap chains and supermarkets,” and “the ability to attract the right staff and keep them in the industry once they join.”

FEELING THREATENED Significant concerns about suppliers who are selling directly to consumers is evident when independent retailers were asked about areas of competition. The highest figure to date: an overwhelming 96% said that housewares suppliers that sell online directly to the public are a threat, with 64% going so far to see it as a ‘serious threat’ (see pie chart). Some 91% regard major online operators (such as Amazon) as a threat. While this is the same figure as in the previous Retail Barometer, this time 41% stipulate “serious threat” - fewer than last year, when it was half of all respondents. Slightly fewer than previously, 77% regard supermarkets’ continued expansion into housewares as a threat - with 18% categorising this as a “serious threat,” down from the 35% who thought so previously. With lockdowns now hopefully a thing of the past and the Shop Local trend riding high, some 23% of indies now feel neutral about supermarkets. The numbers regarding garden centres’ growth in housewares as an adversity have decreased. A total of 59% regard this growth as a threat (compared to 82% in the previous Retail Barometer, when many garden centres sold housewares during lockdowns), with 18% specifying ‘serious threat,’ compared with 29% last time. Far more independents (41%) now feel neutral about their garden centre competitors. When asked to pick the biggest threat, for the first time, nearly half (48%) of respondents pick suppliers that are selling directly. This is greater than those selecting Amazon and online giants as the biggest threat – comprising a third of independents this time – far less than the 70% in the last Retail Barometer.

PROGRESSIVE

The previous Retail Barometer (reflecting on 2020) saw some dramatic growth in several sectors, most notably bakeware, which grew for 73% in 2020, and knives, which grew by 64% as more consumers cooked from scratch during lockdowns – and this growth has continued. It is impressive that, in 2021, bakeware sales continued to grow for 45% of independent cookshops and housewares stockists over the last year and remained stable for a further 50%. Even more remarkable is that 60% of respondents saw their knives sales increase in 2021 indicative of the continuation of home cooking. (See Category performance table). The highest percentage sector for growth in 2021 was glassware, with an unprecedented 61% of respondents who reported an upturn in sales. Undoubtedly there are various contributing factors such as the rise of home bars and tablescapes, the return of home entertaining, and, of course, product innovation (see pages 56-58). Barware has continued to be a strong sector, with 81% of indies seeing growth or stability in 2021, compared with a total of 86% in 2020. Cookware sectors also held up well in 2021, with 50% of independents experiencing growth for stainless steel (building on the 41% that experienced growth in 2020), and a further 45% seeing stability. Non-stick cookware grew for 48% of indies (as it did in 2020). Most strikingly, cast iron has continued to see a resurgence, having previously been a sector that was tracking declining sales in prepandemic Retail Barometers. In 2020, some 39% saw growth in cast iron, while the recent responses show this product area has surged for 47% in the last year. Textiles is another sector that performed well in 2021, with 55% reporting growth – perhaps due to washing up with tea towels after home cooking, investing in oven gloves to get a hearty casserole out of the oven, or dressing the dinner table with attractive tablecloths. Meanwhile, ‘on-the-go’ (food storage and hydration bottles) declined for most Retail Barometer respondents - reflecting that more people worked from home and spent less time out and about. Prior to 2021, this innovative sector enjoyed growth. The most common area for diversification outside housewares is home fragrance, including candles and reed diffusers, as well as other gifts. These are followed by products for the garden. For example, one respondent notes strong demand for gifts for tourists such as local cards, tea towels and chocolate. Another highlights successful diversification into outdoor products such as plant pots and firepits.

Threat 32%

32% Direct action How do you view housewares suppliers selling online direct to the public?

HOUSEWARES

4% 64%

Netural 4%

Serious Threat 64%

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THE 2022 RETAIL BAROMETER READINGS

Category performance in 2021

PRODUCT CHAMPIONS

Category

Growth

Stable

Decline

Bakeware Barware Cake decorating Cast iron cookware Casual dining Ceramic-coated cookware Children’s products Glassware Knives Mugs Non-stick cookware ‘On-the-go' food storage, bottles etc Oven to tableware Preserving Small electricals Stainless steel cookware Textiles Tools and gadgets Waste management

45% 38% 29% 47% 37% 12% 24% 61% 60% 37% 48% 15%

50% 43% 29% 35% 53% 44% 41% 33% 35% 58% 47% 30%

5% 19% 42% 18% 10% 44% 35% 6% 5% 5% 5% 55%

17% 28% 33% 50% 55% 38% 19%

83% 61% 56% 44% 35% 57% 62%

0% 11% 11% 6% 10% 5% 19%

The top product heroes for 2021 were Masterclass Cast Aluminium Casseroles from Lifetime Brands Europe and the ever-popular Kilo Scrubby from CKS. The latter was one of the runner-up heroes for 2020. Other brands and suppliers cited among 2021’s heroes include Le Creuset (including cast iron cookware), The DRH Collection (glassware), Quail (wall vases), Robert Welch Designs (knives), Samuel Groves (British made cookware), Scanpan (cookware), Smeg (kettles) and Zyliss (knives). Licensed product heroes include Emma Bridgewater by Elite Tins and Peanuts by Magpie Wholesale. When asked for the top chef, cookery programme or food related social media platform that is influencing sales of kitchenware, the majority of respondents say none! After that, MasterChef is the top influencer that comes to mind. Various other suggestions include Saturday Kitchen, The Great British Bake Off, Mary Berry, James Martin, Jamie Oliver plus Instagram and TikTok.

18%

Weak 18%

27%

Neutral 27%

Longer term How do you view the future of independent cookshops and housewares retailers in the next 3-5 years?

Marginally increase 55%

Significantly increase 9%

No influence 9% Unsure 27%

Very positive 9%

46%

Positive 46%

Carry on cooking

55% 9%

How do you think the rise in home cooking will influence your sales in 2022?

FORWARD THINKING Looking at the year ahead, expectations are lower when it comes to business growth. This is understandable given the vast number that said business had grown in 2021. As shown earlier, 62% said trade was better in 2021, compared with 2020, with its multiple Covid-19 lockdowns. A total of 41% expect growth (albeit mostly marginal) in 2022. The same number expect a slight decline, and 14% expect to remain on a par with 2021 (see The Year Ahead). The benefits of the home cooking renaissance appear to be lessening a little this year, but the majority (55%) think that continued interest in home cooking will marginally increase their sales this year. A further 9% anticipate significant increases (compared to 23% in the last Retail Barometer), and almost a third (27%) admit they are unsure how the home cooking trend will influence sales this year. When asked for their biggest ambition for their business in 2022, most respondents say this is to grow or retain the same sales figures (citing either or both in-store and online sales). If growth or parity is too ambitious, respondents just want to survive! Additional comments made by cookshops and housewares stockists recognise the challenges of 2022: rising costs putting the squeeze on consumer spending, the return of foreign holidays and going out (for those that can afford to). More specific ambitions for the year ahead include ‘increasing customer retention by 40%,’ ‘to fine tune systems and purchasing processes,’ and ‘build and start running our cookery school.’ One independent simply hopes ‘to get back to some sort of normality.’ Longer term, the future continues to look bright for most respondents. Compared with the previous Retail Barometer, over half of indies (55%) reveal that they are positive about the next three to five years for cookshops and housewares stockists (similar to last year’s Retail Barometer). Optimistically, the number that regards the future as ‘weak’ has dropped from almost a third last year to just 18%.

Slight decline 41%

41%

9% 27%

Significant growth 14%

14% The year ahead

Independent view: “2022 will be challenging as many people will stop focusing on their homes and instead want to go on holiday or spend on going out. Added to this is massive inflation - the like of which we have not seen for 20 years - and rising household and fuel costs, meaning less disposable income.” PROGRESSIVE

What are your expectations for business in 2022?

Marginal growth 27%

27% 14% 33

HOUSEWARES

Major decline 4%

About the same 14%

34-35 Lifetime brands dps.qxp_Grid 10/04/2022 14:08 Page 1

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

Right: The new Pisa range of cafetières.

RE-BREWED

FOR 2022 Coffee is king, and the continued growing consumer desire to emulate the café experience at home presents a golden opportunity. Recognising La Cafetière’s global heritage, the brand has been revitalised and ‘Re-brewed’ for 2022, with new styles, beautiful shapes, mindful textures and, of course, the performance you can expect from La Cafetière. Lifetime Brand’s commercial & marketing director, Claire Budgen, unveils what’s new.

“In 1967, La Cafetière created its first French Press style coffee maker. A whole lot of love went into that first product and it’s grown ever since,” states Claire Budgen, Lifetime Brand’s commercial & marketing director. “We know that people talk about coffee, over coffee, wanting and needing coffee, and this brand essence is bolstered by market trends.” Continues Claire: “Coffee is the UK’s national hot drink, with sales passing the £1.5bn mark for the first time. High street coffee shop sales are not expected to recover fully until 2025, and shops have increased their prices to cover costly overheads. Coupled with the rise in home working, we can expect to see a continued desire to replicate the coffee shop experience at home, with a huge rise in brewing equipment for home use,” adds Claire.

Below: New brand centric packaging.

Inset: From cafetières to espresso makers, grinders, frothers, accessories and mugs, La Cafetière has everything needed to brew authentic coffee at home in style. PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

34-35 Lifetime brands dps.qxp_Grid 10/04/2022 14:09 Page 2

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

Sustainability – reuse, reuse, reuse “We’re conscious of many things – the environment, our retailers and consumer expectations,” says Claire. “Sustainability and origin are hugely important trends within the coffee and tea market, with shoppers now five times more likely to buy sustainable products. Instead of making everything recyclable, we believe in making it last the distance.” Designed for years of use, many of the La Cafetière products have lengthy guarantees. All cafetières feature thermal shock and heat resistant borosilicate glass and espresso makers feature long lasting silicone gaskets. “If something does go, we’re stocking a selection of spares,” Claire emphasises. “From meshes, plungers, knobs or jugs – consumers can simply replace rather than throw away. In addition to this, through an ongoing partnership with Earthly, we are also offsetting the carbon impact of shipping from source.”

Authentic design by coffee experts for coffee lovers “The market is growing, changing and experimenting. There is more drive for innovation and sustainability so we have created a new collection of products which capitalises on trends and consumer demand. Our products are for bringing people together, creating moments to enjoy or to relax with a brew. Brewing is ritualistic and calming and our products sit at the heart of these experiences. Touch points, tactility and ease of use is always considered.” Cafetières in the latest designs and colours emulate modern café culture and their features keep the flavour authentic. Functional clean lines contrast with comfortable curves and mindful textures on the new Pisa cafetière range. The bestselling Monaco shape is redefined in on-trend colours, and Roma boasts a simple design for straightforward brewing in classic style. Venice espresso makers feature natural textures for a distinctively different look. “Our signature plunger is curved to match a user’s palm for plunging, and their grip for pulling back up,” points out Claire. “It is distinct and recognisable, with utility and ergonomics at the heart of its design. Our cafetières are further unified by our signature lid filter which can be rotated to keep the heat in when needed, savouring the moment for longer.”

The brand in café culture As well as new product and packaging, the La Cafetière offering supports retailers and, in turn, consumers with inspiring and engaging content and communication. “Point of sale has been designed to help our retailers create the La Cafetière café culture in-store and to simplify in-store buying for consumers,” Claire starts. “Our planogram options group product types together using shelf strips with clear messaging to help consumers find what they are looking for. Wobblers draw out unique features and aisle fins help to create a defined and branded zone.” She continues: “In addition to this we have developed rich lifestyle imagery and video content, designed to engage with the La Cafetière consumer, to educate and inform, and create those café culture moments. All of these assets are easily downloadable via Market Place, our online trade ordering platform.”

Right: La Cafetière also ticks the box for infusion brewing.

Making change an opportunity “Built to last, innovative and exciting, our products will never stop getting better,” says Claire. “Our ambitious growth plans for the brand also include significant consumer advertising campaigns, all with the goal of further generating brand awareness to support our retail stockists. “Plus, we have invested heavily in stock of all of the new ranges, as well as our ongoing bestsellers. The complete brand offering, plus our entire Cook, Serve and Enjoy range, can be viewed in our Birmingham showroom – we’d love to see you for a La Cafetière brew!”

PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

Above: The POS tool kit enhances the La Cafetière offering in-store for instant brand recognition.

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MARKET FOCUS

BRAISING

EXPECTATIONS Inset: Serenely green: Bamboo is Le Creuset’s newest colourway.

With more cooking from scratch at home, there is increased demand for cleverly designed, durable cookware that also looks good on the hob. Meanwhile, healthier lifestyles and the move towards sustainability continue to be front of mind. PH considers what is influencing new and recent cookware introductions. Right: Nadiya Hussain with her cookware collection by Prestige.

nderstandably, there have been some meteoric shifts in lifestyles and consumers’ priorities over the last two years, with a refocus on cooking at home as well as reinvigorated pride in making the kitchen a personalised, welcoming space. Alongside changes resulting from pandemic lockdowns, home working and desires to stay connected, there is also the ongoing movement towards sustainability, and, of course, all of this has an impact on cookware development. Take, for example, the views of Samantha Judge, senior buyer at Ultimate

Products, who states: “We’ve noticed a real shift in the homewares sector towards sustainability and have spent some time developing ranges with a focus on being greener.” She explains: “Our recycled aluminium cookware range, launching this year under our Progress brand, is sure to answer the consumer demand for more eco-friendly cookware. Retailing at an affordable price point, the cookware is made from 100% recycled materials and is also fully recyclable.” Samantha also highlights the cookware’s 10-year guarantee, and eco-friendly ceramic non-stick coating, helping consumers “to achieve healthy, low fat cooking.” Aesthetics continue to be an important feature too; the new range

At home with Nadiya Having launched her own cookware with Prestige (from Meyer) last year, tv chef, author and presenter Nadiya Hussain enthuses: “There’s lots of things I love about this cookware and bakeware range. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for such a long time; it’s super special. And this is why I know everyone is going to love it. Because it’s little things like the beautiful texture in the base of the tins, the universal lid, the stackable cookware and the colour.” Nadiya sums up: “Everything in this collection is something that I would use in my kitchen. This range is useful, fun and affordable.”

comes in “a delicate green hue that will bring any kitchen up to date, and also PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

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MARKET FOCUS features an FSC beechwood handle,” Samantha notes. Moreover, the Progress Plant Promise means that a tree is planted for every pan sold. With the recent introduction of Prestige’s EarthPan range, Meyer Group’s product and sourcing director Adam Kavanagh acknowledges: “Consumers around the world are becoming much more environmentally focused, joining forces against unnecessary waste; the idea of a throw-away society is becoming increasingly unacceptable in all walks of life. The cookware industry is no exception and is being influenced by the movement. Customers are wanting more sustainable products that provide quality and present good value while helping to reduce environmental impacts.” Adam emphasises: “We challenge ourselves to find sustainable solutions, at every stage of the journey. From the recycled materials we use, to the energy efficient manufacturing process, and beyond this, by ensuring everything is recyclable when products reach the end of their natural lives.” Besides the commitment to delivering responsibly produced cookware, Adam highlights the importance of encouraging consumers to make sustainable changes in their daily lives. He emphasises: “We believe that if you buy better, it will last longer. We encourage customers to choose cookware that stands the test of time, and rather than throw away yesterday’s pans, recycle them for tomorrow.” Made from 100% recycled aluminium cans (collected in Europe), Kuhn Rikon’s New Life cookware was The Excellence in Housewares 2021 Eco Award winner. This is just one of multiple cookware ranges recently introduced by the brand, which, with significant investment in product development, has positioned itself as a cookware expert. At Spring Fair, Kuhn Rikon showcased 17 different sets of cookware across a “good, better, best” spectrum, with a UK “lifetime guarantee upgrade,” showing the company’s commitment to durable products that are “well made and look good,” notes key account manager Paul Marchant. With many cookware ranges manufactured at the factory in Rikon, Switzerland, Paul confirms: “We have lots in development; it’s an exciting time to be at Kuhn Rikon.” At Eddingtons, commercial director Richard Walker highlights the advantages of European manufactured cookware.

Inset: One pot attraction: Nori Tajine from Beka.

Cookware has been produced by Fissler since 1845 and continues to be manufactured at its plant in the Rhineland. Richard states: “We are delighted with our Fissler partnership; fast short lead time deliveries from Germany mean there is no frustration with container port transitions often associated with longer lead time

Boxing clever “Making range navigation intuitive for more savvy shoppers is key,” emphasises Richard Sharp, marketing manager at Horwood. He explains: “Many consumers are emerging from the lockdown era much more attuned to home cooking. They’ve spent a lot of time in the kitchen discovering new recipes and techniques, so expectations have also been raised in terms of what they look for in kitchen equipment and cookware. As well as focusing Stellar plans on developing new products with the best possible performance, we’re also updating our packaging and product hierarchy so that consumers can shop our range much more easily and identify the products which have the right attributes for them. “

deliveries from the far east. No inflated container cost pricing too.” Recognising consumer demands for longevity, Richard adds: “Fissler is a brand for this era – buy once, last a lifetime, with modern innovation applied to traditional cooking methods.” The brand continues to blend technology, ergonomics and style in its new product development, for example with the Kitchen Innovation Award winning Levital+ Comfort Pan. Moreover, 2022 sees an overhaul of the worldwide bestseller, the Original Profi Collection whose encapsulated base retains heat and is “great for serving at the table and family style dining,” notes Richard. New features include improved stay cool handles and useful internal measurement guides, and pieces will be added to the collection this year. Richard also acknowledges a trend for pressure cooking, addressed by award winning technology from Fissler. The brand’s Vitavit Premium Pressure Cooker has also received one of Germany’s prestigious Kitchen Innovation Inset: A tree is planted for every sale of Progress’ new recycled aluminium cookware from Ultimate Products.

PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

15 YEARS

OF HEALTHY COOKING

• THE ORIGINAL: healthy ceramic non-stick since 2007 • THERMOLON ™ COATING: leader in innovation, outstanding performance • ALWAYS PFAS-FREE: no harmful PFAS-chemicals

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT US: Neil McIntosh: Country Manager UK I neil.mcintosh@cookware -co.com Jason Kirk: Head of sales UK I jason.kirk@cookware -co.com

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MARKET FOCUS Awards. Recognising the nutritional advantages of pressure cooking, as well as the speed, Richard reflects: “We are seeing more use on tv cooking competitions where time and flavour are of the essence; pressure cooking can produce a fine stock in minutes.” He also points out that Fissler’s steamer setting is a “go-to feature for the modern household; cooking using this setting keeps a wonderful healthy crunch to vegetables and a splendid colour too.” Meanwhile Samuel Groves continues to explore new opportunities for its UK manufactured cookware by talking to retailers and the hospitality trade. Managing director Lee McDonagh reports: “Many consumers made dinners into special occasions during lockdowns, and many first-class restaurants developed cooking kits and delivery services of full and part made meals as a way of surviving lockdowns and meeting consumer needs.” Noting that “the new going out is staying in,” he continues: “Home cooks and aspiring chefs now create fantastic restaurant style meals at home, but they were crying out for the tools to replicate restaurant service and style.” Lee highlights Samuel Groves’ new Mini

Inset: Part of the cookware manufacturing process at Kuhn Rikon’s factory in Switzerland.

Getting the look

Inset: Above: Tower

Cavaletto in Jade. “Forecasts have predicted an increased demand for fashion-forward housewares, accelerated by younger consumers and new homeowners desiring trendy, ‘Instagrammable’ products,” notes Simon Oliver, commercial director for Home and Outdoor Living at RKW, who also observes that consumers are “seeking more value from cookware, not just looking at key benefits, but a combination of style, quality and functionality.” Having pioneered the success of coordinated housewares and SDA collections with its Rose Gold range, Tower’s popular Cavaletto range has now become its “biggest selling collection by volume with record engagement on social media,” says Simon. “We’re soon launching Tower Cavaletto cookware in response to this success, with colours including Black, Grey, Midnight Blue and Marshmallow Pink – all accented with our signature Rose Gold that continues to stand the test of time as one of our most popular cookware colours,” he reports. Jade Green and Optic White, with Champagne Gold accents are new colourway introductions. Simon reflects: “Influenced by the SS22 Reset trend, which focuses on the colours of the natural world, spiritual healing and enhanced wellbeing, Jade Green presents a nature-inspired, gentle hue with familiar and reassuring qualities.” Also embracing an uplifting shade of green for cookware in 2022, Le Creuset’s Bamboo is “a versatile, verdant evergreen shade inspired by the tropical grass and ideal for mix and matching with other colours on the tabletop and in the kitchen.” Bringing natural hues, the colour is “in keeping with consumers’ increasing eco-awareness,” notes Le Creuset marketing manager Natalie Wade. Forest is a deep shade of green that features in Jomafe’s wide range of cookware. “Traditionally, there has been so much black and grey in cookware that now many consumers want a point of difference to make a more personal style statement in their kitchen, for example, with our Forest Green or contrasting Velvet Red,” explains Paul Therese, managing director of Jomafe UK. Style hungry consumers will be thrilled by The Cookware Company’s introduction of Kitchen Aid Cast Iron casseroles in the iconic Kitchen Aid colours. Neil McIntosh, UK country manager for The Cookware Company reports: “The objective has been to create a much more accessible price point for younger, design conscious consumers who want to buy their first cast iron cookware.”

Copper Pans, which “are just one of the many products that help consumers achieve fantastic results.” He explains: “The copper pans are lined with stainless steel to ensure the style and service of Michelin restaurants in the comfort of your own home.” Beka’s marketing manager Elise De Paepe has noticed an increase in slow cooking “as people enjoy taking more time to cook, experimenting with ingredients and flavours in

one-pot dishes.” She explains: “That’s why we recently launched the heat retaining Nori Cast Iron Cocotte and Tajine, which are beautiful eye-catchers on the table.” For those who are venturing outside to cook, Beka’s new Mandela Frying Pans can also be used on barbecues, with its wooden handles turned away from the flames. Whether indoors or outside, more than ever before, cooking itself has become the occasion and not just the means to the meal.

Pioneering GreenPan turns 15 Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, GreenPan (from The Cookware Company) continues to drive innovation, launching Infinite8, the eighth generation of its Thermolon ceramic non-stick coating, across all products. UK country manager Neil McIntosh explains: “In comparison to our seventh generation Infinity Professional Diamond coating, the new Thermolon Infinite8 offers 50% higher non-stick durability, 60% more abrasion resistance, 90% greater resistance to dishwashers and 100% more resistance to salt.” He confirms: “The result is a longer lasting non-stick and a better experience for our customers in terms of technology and functionality of their GreenPan cookware.” Inset: GreenPan This year also sees the launch of “new premium, high performance GreenPan Barcelona Pro: a hard anodised aluminium Barcelona Pro range with Balance Pro technology to keep the base of the pan perfectly flat, which means oils and butter will stay in the features the centre of the pan.” new Thermolon Reflecting on the past 15 years, Neil comments: “Since the business was founded by Jan Helskens and Wim De Infinite8 coating. Veirman in 2007, the world has seen a transformational change as consumers have become more aware of eating and cooking healthily.” In Neil’s view, this change includes increased recognition of PFAS-free ceramic as “healthy, non-toxic, non-stick cookware.” Elaborating on recent developments, Neil reports: “Over the last 12 months we have witnessed a strong, irrepressible movement in Europe to ban PFAS - which include the PTFE that is used in some non-stick coatings – because they include so-called ‘forever chemicals,’ some taking as long as 1000 years to break down and decompose completely.” He speculates: “The groundswell of ongoing media coverage from online news outlets in UK (BBC, The Guardian) and across the European mainland reflect a growing movement worldwide to eradicate PFAS non-stick cookware potentially within the next three to five years.” In Neil’s opinion: “A key message often overlooked when thinking about ceramic non-stick cookware is that being PFAS-free doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality or performance – or be more expensive.” He points out that GreenPan covers a wide range of price points, and offers the benefits of durability and ease of cleaning.

PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

UNRIVALLED COOKWARE & K I T C H E N E X P E R T I S E SINCE 1926

19 RANGES, 27 SETS, 232 COOKWARE SKUS

ENTRY LEVEL TO PREMIUM, IT'S ALL AVAILABLE AT KUHN RIKON sales@kuhnrikon.co.uk | 01902 458410 40_HW_March April 2022.indd 1

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New

Products Cookware

1: Tower Cavaletto Cookware Cavaletto saucepans, fry pans and cookware sets are coming soon. The superior Cerasure non-stick coating is three times stronger than other cookware coatings, providing healthier low oil cooking and easy food release. Made from high-quality pressed aluminium with expert heat transfer and ergonomic Softtex handles for comfort. Available in the signature Cavaletto colours with timeless Rose Gold accents. New Jade Green and Optic White with Champagne Gold accents will be the must-stock colours for 2022/23. Tower T: 0333 220 6070 E: sales@rkwltd.com W: www.rkwltd.com

2: Simply Supreme Boil, sauté, bubble and roast your way to culinary success with Dexam Supreme; a quality single walled stainless steel cookware range. The range includes saucepans, roasters, fry pans and more and for 2022, three new items have been added including a jam preserving pan and two non-stick chef’s pans. They are suitable for all types of hob, including induction, and are oven and dishwasher safe. A lifetime guarantee is also included. Dexam T: 01730 811811 E: sales@dexam.co.uk W: www.trade.dexam.co.uk

3: Kuhn Rikon Kuhn Rikon put cookware front and centre at the recent Spring Fair, including this new 5pc set added to its best-selling Allround range. Featuring three saucepans, 24cm non-stick frypan and the new 16cm double-lipped milkpan. The company has one of the most comprehensive cookware offers on the market, with 19 ranges, 27 sets and 232 cookware skus. From entry level to premium, Kuhn Rikon has it covered. Kuhn Rikon E: sales@kuhnrikon.co.uk T: 01902 458410

6: SAVEUR Selects Voyage Series. Excellence in Housewares Award 2021 Finalist SAVEUR Selects® beautifully collates style with innovation. Upgrading conventional enamelled cast iron with unique double-walled stainless steel lids, the Voyage series benefits from reduced overall weight and increased cooking efficiency. Self-basting condensation rings and drip ridges built into the lid lock in flavour and redistribute moisture. Large signature textured handles provide extra grip and contribute toward an heirloom quality finish, impressing your guests before you reveal what's been cooking. SAVEUR T: +447531134899 E: William@winningtonhousewares.co.uk W: www.winningtonhousewares.co.uk

5: Tala Performance Superior Grade Cookware

4: The Black Collection Cookware

High Quality 18/10 Mirror polished stainless steel for long lasting and superior performance. These pans are manufactured entirely in Portugal and come with a 25-year quality guarantee. With convenient internal litre markings for measuring liquids for immediate use. The thick impact bonded base provides even heat distribution and can be used at high temperatures, retaining heat well and cooking food evenly. Safe for use on all stove tops including induction. With stay cool handles. Dayes T: 01728 833400 E: sales@dayesuk.com W: www.dayesuk.

The Black Collection from Tramontina comprises an outstanding selection of items which ooze a dark rustic style and create a striking balance between indoor and outdoor use – especially complementing the barbeque culture. The collection offers high quality, durability, convenience, and style throughout, and one of the many stand-out elements is the comprehensive range of pre–seasoned cast iron cookware, with a host of items from the griddle pans, skillets and casserole to woks, sizzle platter, Dutch oven and more. Tramontina T: +44 (0) 20 3176 4557 / +44 (0) 20 3176 4558 E: contact.tuk@tramontina.com W: www.tramontina.co.uk

PROGRESSIVE

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Eddingtons Ltd Export Director Finn Gram-Jensen 01488 Export Director Finn Gram-Jensen fgj@stelton.dk / +45 20 91686 46572 00 sales@eddingtons.co.uk fgj@stelton.dk / +45 20 91 46 00 www.eddingtons.co.uk Visit us at Top Drawer Olympia London Feb 20th – 22nd 2022 (Stand F29) 24/01/2022 15.12 24/01/2022 15.12 24/01/2022 16:25

Available in a fun and tantalising range of colours, bring the party to the kitchen with the brand new Sorbet range from Giles and Posner. Featuring a chocolate fountain, popcorn maker, waffle maker, snack maker and more, it’s the perfect range to keep kids and adults entertained!

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If you want to join the pastel party, contact our sales team at sales@upgs.com

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PH SHELF PORTRAIT Quince & Cook.qxp_Grid 06/04/2022 16:16 Page 1

THE TOP

6 SHELF PORTRAIT

RECENT BESTSELLERS:

l Signature Knives by Robert Welch Designs l Opinel Knives from Whitby & Co l Cast Iron Cookware from Le Creuset l Stainless Steel Tri-ply from Le Creuset l Kitchen Textiles from Thornback & Peel l Mini Measuring Jugs from KitchenCraft

RETAILER PROFILE

QUINCE & COOK Cookware and kitchen accessories compliment range cookers and gifts at Quince & Cook, opened by keen cooks Sophie and Neil McEwan in Perth in 2020. PH talks shop with Sophie.

Below: Cast iron at Quince & Cook.

ON THE WAY UP Inset: Tables are stocked with cook and dine products. Photos by Ruth Segaud. Below: Husband and wife duo Neil and Sophie outside the shop.

“We have seen an increase in demand for kitchen storage solutions. Our range of acacia wood glass canisters have been very popular with people looking to spring clean and refresh their pantries.”

How it started “Before launching Quince & Cook, Neil and I ran a small business in Perth dedicated to the installation of stoves and range cookers. While running this business I launched an online interiors and gift shop called Quince Living. With wood burning regulations increasing and demand slowing we made the decision in 2019 to combine the range cooker side of our business with Quince Living to create Quince & Cook – a mini modern day department store complete with a cookshop and zero waste department.”

UPS AND DOWNS “We have seen a decrease in bread making supplies, with it peaking during lockdown and gradually dropping to a steady level with sales in bannetons, dough knives and loaf pans plateauing to a normal level. ”

Facts and stats l Quince & Cook is 204 square metres and set out in a U shape with one side dedicated to cookware. The other side is interiors, homeware, gift and refill shop. l The shop stocks around 450 kitchenware and tableware SKUs. l Quince & Cook has a flourishing Instagram page, with an “amazing community” of followers, as well as promoting products through Google, Facebook and Pinterest, as well as word of mouth.

The best thing? STAR CUSTOMER “We recently had a lovely customer who was a longtime user of cast iron but was struggling with the weight. New Masterclass Cast Aluminium in Lavender was the perfect solution. She left with four casseroles.”

Tried and tested

“The best thing about our shop is that there is something for every budget, from entry level designs to well established heirloom pieces.”

Adding on “Recently we have extended our range of consumable products, such as locally made coffee to pair with our PROGRESSIVE

cafetieres and drippers along with tapenades, olive oils and salsas to sit alongside our tableware. This creates a product story and encourages add on sales. We have also introduced the opportunity to make a voluntary contribution to the British Red Cross after checkout as well as a donation direct from Quince & Cook for every sale made online.”

HOUSEWARES

“Robert Welch was the first brand we chose for the shop, as 11 years ago we received a full set for a wedding gift and they are still going strong. This allows us to talk passionately and offer our customers first hand advice on which knife would be best for their needs. Our newest range is stylish Origami coffee drippers which are made in Japan.”

The sunny side “With this being our first spring with the shop doors open we are taking every day as it comes. We have felt a drop in sales since Christmas, as expected. With the better weather approaching we have seen sales gradually begin to pick up instore as people venture out into the spring sunshine.”

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M&S DPS_GF.qxp_Grid 08/04/2022 16:50 Page 1

RETAILER IN PROFILE

AT THE HEART Inset: Exterior view of M&S at Kingsley Village Retail Park, St Columb. Below: Heidi Woodhouse joined M&S as director of Home and Furniture in May 2020, having been at Dixons Carphone for 11 years. Below: Style ideas for the dining room as featured on M&S.com. Below right: View of M&S Home, Banbury Gateway.

Over the past two years, Marks & Spencer’s director of Home, Heidi Woodhouse has been instrumental in the reshaping of M&S Home. PH asked Heidi about the evolution of its Cook & Dine department and why consumers are seeing the iconic British retailer as a “go-to destination for all things Home.”

“Without a doubt the whole of the home market has changed dramatically through the pandemic,” acknowledges Heidi Woodhouse, director of Home & Furniture at Marks & Spencer. “I think that people view their homes differently now – as a place to work but also a key venue to entertain. People have spent more time cooking and preparing meals, and I don’t think this will change.” Part of a re-energised focus for M&S’ Cook & Dine sector is to enable consumers to prepare and cook food more quickly and easily for family and their outdoor spaces more as an friends. An example that sets the extension of their homes, to host scene for easy home entertaining is the and entertain.” own-brand retailer’s “amazing oven-toRecognising that the retailer has “huge tableware, which opportunities to grow in is not only the Home market,” Heidi As customers tighten their beautiful but acknowledges that M&S’ belts with the pressures on also really reputation for trusted finances, our customers will lightweight, so quality puts it in a strong be looking at both value and you don’t need position for the sustainability more than ever huge muscles!” challenges of 2022 too. notes Heidi. She “As customers tighten also observes that, when it comes to their belts with the pressures on finances, demand for Cook & Dine products: our customers will be looking at both “Outdoor entertaining is also big on the value and sustainability more than ever,” agenda - people are having fun dressing she reflects. “I believe M&S offers a their tables inside and out and utilising fantastic range of products at great prices

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RETAILER IN PROFILE

Remarksable Home Following the success of its Remarksable food campaign M&S launched its homeware campaign for Remarksable in February, putting the spotlight on entry price point Home product such as tea towels, mugs, dinner sets and cookware. More Cook & Dine products will be added to the Remarksable range in September. Heidi reports: “Our sales since the launch of Remarksable have been really promising and are not impacting our other ranges. They are a very different proposition, but we are definitely attracting new customers to M&S Home through this range.” However, Heidi emphasises “Good value exists throughout all our ranges. Different customers have different wants and needs, and we are clear that we want to have something for everyone.”

that will last and last. My mother-in-law still has been incredibly has her M&S plates from the 70s!” successful and is really Moreover, there is potential for growth from resonating. We are also encouraging consumers who shop other reviewing how we bring sectors to buy into Cook & Dine products. these fantastic brands to As Heidi points out: “M&S has an incredibly life in store, alongside broad customer base – including 22 million our own fantastic customers who have never purchased from homeware.” Summing M&S Home. As set out at a recent investor up, Heidi adds: “We want morning, taking just 10% of these to ensure we are customers’ spending with Inset: Lifestyle table settings are providing consumers with ideas for how to bring products key competitors would be together. Photos of M&S Home at Banbury Our customers would love worth £150m to the brand.” Gateway Retail Park. to see how their plate started M&S Home has also “begun Below: “We are always trialling new things - our store off as a hand painted picture display is a fundamental part of the customer buying to design into four key journey, so we want it to be impactful,” states Heidi by one of our designers house styles, which Woodhouse. complement the way our customers live,” Heidi reports. bringing our customers the best of the Also contributing to growth in the kitchen Growth also includes introducing more best, bringing on-board brands who have and dining market is M&S.com’s introduction categories that consumers want to shop, as real authenticity in this space, with of inspirational ‘Shop by trend’ pages - as well well as “building better products.” Heidi amazing product ranges which can as social media content that is connecting highlights how her team “has made the big complement our own.” with new audiences. “We are getting amazing bigger” – for example, with engagement from customers,” states Heidi. investment in the in-house home Moreover, the retailer is tapping into the trend fragrance brand Apothecary, which for dressing tables for key events such as is now worth £20m annually, and Easter and Christmas. M&S is also providing successful relaunch of M&S’ lighting new ways to shop via trials of virtual category, with 22,000 units sold in appointments with Home experts. More the first half of the year. consumers are discovering M&S’ homewares Putting the spotlight on portfolio and the “competitive pricing and exceptional value lines in Cook & outstanding value” that Heidi regards as “the Dine is another recent focus (see foundation of our offer.” ‘Remarksable’ breakout), along with the introduction of third-party The provenance of products brands. As in other areas of the “As an own-brand retailer, we are uniquely business, adding a few “strong positioned to work in partnership with our trusted third-party brands” into the Home suppliers to innovate to find new and better ways of doing things – whether that’s making choices mix has been an exciting that help reduce emissions, cut waste, improve development on M&S.com, workers’ lives, or sourcing more responsibly,” featuring big names including reflects Heidi, who is keen to demonstrate M&S’ long-held commitment to sustainability as well as Joseph Joseph, OXO and Kilner. share the stories behind many Home ranges. “As With more brands in the pipeline, a business, we want to invite our customers to look a bit deeper and to think about how as well as some “really exciting the M&S products they buy were made. That’s collaborations,” Heidi why we’re inviting customers to look behind the label and discover the sustainability stories acknowledges that, although M&S behind our products, giving them the power to make good choices.” Moreover, she confirms: has strong expertise in many of the same “We are absolutely seeing customers taking more of an interest in where they are buying their categories: “customers don’t shop products from and the process behind our manufacturing and sourcing.” Heidi admits: “When I first started at M&S, my biggest surprise was the outstanding design exclusively with one brand,” and can now capability and the processes that we go through to design these amazing ranges. The talent is “buy brands they love from their beyond what I could have imagined. I think our customers would love to see how their beautiful duvet cover or plate started off as a hand painted picture by one of our designers.” favourite retailer.” She reports: “The recent launch of Denby

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INTERNATIONAL RETAILER FOCUS

WONDERS OF

THE WORLD The gia Awards night during The Inspired Home Show in March revealed five remarkable gia Global Honorees for 2022, and two further special award winners. PH enjoys some armchair travelling across four continents to visit this year’s world champion housewares retailers.

Inspiring the senses Taiwan: Hengstyle, Taipei Dating back to 1960 (as a distributor of cameras), Hengstyle is now a “lifestyle brand,” states chairman Jay Chen, with a concept store in Taipai stocking small electrical appliances and kitchenware. Hengstyle’s store design involves “tunnels in a living gallery,” with visual merchandising that is “meant to bring shoppers to a wonderland,” says Sarah Chen, senior manager. Merchandising themes change to match the content of the quarterly Hengstyle magazine. Providing a multi-sensory experience for its customers, the retailer plays relaxed jazz, chill out and lounge music, and uses citrus and woody fragances that “brighten the mood and evoke a warm feeling in store,” states Sarah.

Marketing activity includes fine dining pop-ups and “inspirational immersive experiences including gastronomy, wellness, home decoration and lifestyle.” In-store classes range from “Reading the Food” (cooking with ingredients inspired by a travel book) to “Stretch your Mind” (combining yoga and bowl singing). The store also has a “dynamic library” for its customers - showcasing 1,000 books in collaboration with a renowned bookstore. There is also space for customers to relax and socialise in Hengstyle’s bar, which boasts a “creative drinks menú”. The Hengstyle store is known for its instant repair service, where customers can have their Dyson vacuum cleaner repaired in just one hour. Customers can also make reservations for personal service with instore experts. Below: Part of the small electricals area of the Hengstyle store. Right: “Distinctive and unique” displays of kitchenware and tableware at Paul French Gallery.

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Inset: “Tunnels in a living gallery” is part of the design concept at Taiwan’s Hengstyle store.

Distinctly different Argentina: Paul French Gallery, Buenos Aires Established in 2010, Paul French Gallery in Buenos Aires “inspires a way of living.” Kitchenware displayed with the feel of a “vintage, disorganised bazaar” and tableware set out with different inspirational table settings, the home store “changes every week, almost completely,” explains María Cosentino, sales and commercial manager.

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With no windows, the retailer provides curious shoppers with a journey of discovery. Entering via an alley, visitors find a plant shop, leading on to a winery and coffee shop, as well as Tealosophy, a tea shop and the ground floor, including cook and dine products. Paul French Gallery’s main merchandising table changes around every fortnight, while the store dedicates different areas to distinctive styles, such as urban, organic, beach, Provence, and eclectic. The retailer opened a second store in 2013 in Punta del Este Uruguay, focusing on beach style. The pandemic has generated significant online growth and Paul has made good use of social platforms including WhatsApp to maintain communications with customers.

Addressing the “phygital era” Brazil: Westwing Brasil Established in 2011, Westwing Brasil describes itself as a “shoppable magazine,” selling products for the home through editorial content online. The retailer also presents ideas and products in a print magazine with trends, interviews and articles focused on home decoration, design and lifestyle. With an engaging social media presence – and the biggest House & Decor Pinterest account in Brazil - Westwing has its own studios and a dedicated video team, creating unique content, “based on stories, such as makeovers of celebrities’ houses,” explains Renato Grego, chief marketing officer. Meeting demands for “fast shopping,” the

Inset: A view of one of Westwing’s physical stores. Below: Tableware and kitchen linens in Westwing’s green themed product mix. Bottom: Natural wood and earthenware are central to one of La Maison Pernoise’s lifestyle displays.

retailer’s Westwing Now concept runs over 2,500 campaigns per year, with one-off ‘flash sales’ (mostly House & Décor products) sent out to approximately nine million customers. The retailer has also created its own Westwing Collections brand, and often does exclusive collaborations with Brazilian celebrities.

Interiors destination France: La Maison Pernoise, Pernes-Les-Fontaines La Maison Pernoise attracts customers from all over the world to the small provincial village of Pernes-LesFontaines. The store is the creation of Lau Dejente, who previously managed an IKEA store in Lille after a career at a global advertising company. Lau converted a characterful old barn into a unique interiors store spread over two floors. The barn’s central areas are occupied by product “scenographies” created by the store's professional stylists and inspired by trends and travels, with new scenographies designed every three weeks. • For the full story of La Maison Pernoise, see the April issue of Progressive Tableware Worldwide.

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Consumers’ focus on the home during the pandemic has been a catalyst for Westwing’s worldwide growth. Prior to the pandemic, the retailer had 300 employees, whereas it now has more than 650. Anticipating “the beginning of the phygital era,” – ie that consumers would “search for physical spaces associated with online buying with the end of the pandemic,” Westwing opened four physical stores in 2021, and aims to launch ten more this year. “The new Westwing stores allow a greater interaction with our customer, who’s already very loyal,” notes Renato. “We are a company that was born in digital, so the idea is that the channels complement each other and deliver the greatest possible convenience and a differentiated shopping experience.”

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INTERNATIONAL RETAILER FOCUS Jamie Butler started her business in 2013 in a mobile truck, which soon became a popular feature at her local farmer’s markets, as well as her local gym, where she showcased kitchen tools and gadgets and cookware at the beginning of its Boot Camp challenges. Jamie also took her truck to bridal showers as a one stop shop for guests and outdoor events, as well as parking up on roadsides wherever she felt she could build her clientele. When opening her bricks-and-mortar store in 2015, Jamie wanted to make her store a hub for the community, as well as stocking it full of tableware, cookware, gadgets and home décor. Besides hosting cooking classes and product demonstrations, The Butler’s Pantry has teamed up with a local yoga instructor for “yoga and brunch” events. People attend the yoga class in the park across the street from the store and then make their way into The Butler’s Pantry for mimosas and a tutorial on brunch boards. On Tuesdays, Jamie invites remote workers, self-employed home workers and independent contractors into her store to share some human contact. She calls this “The Inspired Table” and provides her visitors with water, coffee and WiFi. The Butler’s Pantry is located in a former butcher’s premises, but, with experience in interior design as well as buying and merchandising, Jamie has integrated her unique personal style with historic features such as wooden floors and the track on the ceiling, where meat was hung. The shop is separated into three large rooms, with muted colour palettes and a homely feel, so that customers can visualise how products will look in their homes. Instagram works well for Jamie’s social media posts and she also works with local bloggers, giving them product samples, which they follow up with tags in their stories or posts. She has also hosted bloggers and local personalities for live Instagram stories in the store. Complimenting the successful brick and mortar shop, the mobile truck is still part of Jamie’s business, taking The Butler’s Pantry to new customers.

Upwardly mobile USA: The Butler’s Pantry, Escalon, California

Elevating housewares The Inspired Home Show and the International Housewares Association (IHA) are the global sponsors and organisers of the IHA Global Innovation Awards (gia) programme. Since the launch of gia in 2000, there have been close to 500 gia retail award winners, from 50 countries on six continents. Progressive Housewares is the exclusive sponsor of gia UK, one of the trade titles that co-sponsors the gia progamme with the IHA. The UK national gia winner is chosen from the retail winners of The Excellence in Housewares Awards, with Jarrolds of Norwich being the most recent gia UK winner. The gia Awards night on March 5 also saw the presentation of the Martin M Pegler Award for Excellence in Visual Merchandising to HomeTown – by Praxis Home Retail of India, for its stunning instore and window displays. Meanwhile, the gia Digital Commerce Award for Excellence in Online Retailing to MAKE Designed Objects of Australia. • The latest gia national winners and Global Honorees are recognised in a gallery at TheInspiredHomeShow.com/Awards/giaRetailing.

Inset: Tableware in motion in one of HomeTown’s dramatic window displays. Below: Kitchenware and gifts are featured on MAKE’s award-winning ecommerce site.

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Inset: Mugs, teapots, storage tins and candles on display at The Butler’s Pantry.

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LOOKING

GLASS Inset: Ritzenhoff Optic from EP Brands.

Home entertaining is back, home bars are here to stay, and consumers are treating themselves to distinctive glasses for everyday use as well as dinner parties. PH pops a cork and considers the latest developments in the glassware and barware market.

lassware is meeting consumer demand for “affordable luxuries for the home,” observes David Holmes, managing director of The DRH Collection, who is noticing “very little price resistance” for stand-out pieces. A pioneer of ranges that contribute to dramatic tablescapes, David emphasises: “We have used the term ‘table theatre’ for years.” He elaborates: “Upscaling glassware makes sense because it is so visual thanks to its height above other tableware. Also, the first thing people generally do when they sit down at the dinner table is to pick up their glass and drink, and it’s often the last thing too.” According to David, DRH has “gone down a route directly inspired by fashion for the first time with our launch of Bloom, a floral pattern designed in-house by Cat

Left: Duralex’s iconic Picardie glass comes in various sizes from 9cl up to 50cl.

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Nguyen-Walker, who has a background in fashion.” At the recent Spring Fair DRH launched its glamorous 1920s-invoking Cubic glasses (also designed by Cat), with a striking 3D pattern, while David predicts that DRH’s be-dazzling Galaxy range will be a bestseller this winter. Industry expert Steve Platt, managing director of crystal and glassware specialist distributor EP Brands also reports on the evolving market, reflecting: “During the first two years of the pandemic, we saw a significant rise in glassware to fulfil the desire to match the dining out experience at home.” He continues: “In 2022 we are seeing a progression of this trend, and consumers are demanding more statement and conceptual glassware.” Rather than the “wine glasses to suit the occasion,” consumers are now “demanding wine glasses that turn heads at their home entertaining occasions.” In Steve’s opinion, “two statement conceptual designs have emerged with prominence.” The first of these is “the optic or scalloped effect that can be seen in Villeroy & Boch’s Rose Garden, Ritzenhoff’s Sternschliff and Riedel’s Performance.” Steve explains: “This design concept demonstrates how we can add a twist to existing styles; adding a new inner component within an existing mould reinvents a product to meet ‘head turning’ consumer demand.” The second example that Steve highlights

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MARKET FOCUS Inset: Villeroy & Boch’s new Rose Garden. Below: Rose tinted glasses: Bloom by The DRH Collection.

is the Power range from Stölzle Lausitz, with “a conceptual flat bowl base that has taken the UK market by storm.” After winning an International Design Award in 2018, the range has expanded with the addition of a coupe, adding to the opportunities for a design-led wine drinking experience with friends. Steve also reports that Stölzle Lausitz continues to build on its strong position in the crystal and glass market, with a new ceo Leopold Grupp, who is keen to develop the ‘Born In Fire’ brand. Moreover, continuing its progressive expansion, Stölzle Lausitz is due to start production in a new factory for crystalline from January 2023. Meanwhile, Tradestock prides itself on preempting and addressing trends with its latest collections, including Freeform Taste, with three sizes of

versatile, gift-boxed, fine crystal glassware that are suitable for all types of occasions and drinks from beers, wines, and spirits to cocktails, mocktails and fizz. Keith Nye, managing director explains: “Beautifully crafted with soft sleek contours, these ontrend, stemless glasses feature a small ‘boot’ base which allows the glass to sit perfectly in the palm of the hand – a lovely design feature.” Keith also highlights the bestselling Optic range in Tradestock’s iStyle, with its “beautiful optic shaped bowl, suitable for numerous drinks, complemented by a chunky stem and available in a choice of five colourways as well as clear.” When it comes to colour trends, Keith recognises the prominence of green across interiors and welcomes the introduction of green tumblers and wine glasses in the iconic Napoleon Bee collection from La Rochère, which are “perfect for both indoor and outdoor entertaining.” Likewise, iconic French brand Duralex

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continues to expand colour options in its classic Picardie design. Last year, the brand was acquired by Pyrex’s parent company International Cookware, bringing fresh opportunities for UK retailers to stock up across ranges of the French-made heritage brands. Duralex’s UK marketing manager Alexandra Blyth acknowledges: “Coloured glassware is coming into its own, whether it’s something nice to use as an everyday treat or to make unique and beautiful table settings as we enjoy home entertaining again.” She highlights new Sapphire Blue, as well as popular Marine – “inspired by the Riviera” – and Amber, “which provides a great contrast to Grey.” Duralex also recognises the popularity of cocktails at home, with its Jazz glass, “which almost reflects the piano keys in a jazz bar,” and Manhattan, “which depicts the New York skyline,” notes Alex. Established in 1945, the brand has some impressive credentials

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Year-round demand Barware specialist Jeray Original Products is celebrating its 70th year, with its managing director Paul Spencer reflecting: “We have seen a lot of drink trends come and go; three cocktail booms are just one example!” Focusing on current developments, Paul states: “Cocktails are certainly on trend now and we’ll be launching both classic and fun accessories for autumn.” Paul reports that Jeray’s top 20 list by value for 2021 “is still filled with our classic decanters, ever-popular bottle wrap, drying rack, electric corkscrew and the iconic pineapple ice bucket.” He adds; “So far in 2022, it is distinctive glassware such as our Ship or Shark in a Glass (a Gift of the Year finalist), Cactus Shots and Smoking Pipe Glasses that have gained publicity, with some exciting whisky accessories to follow.” At Lifetime Brands Europe, marketing director Claire Budgen observes: “The start of 2022 is proving that barware was not just a Covid fad or indeed something just for Christmas and New Year, but it is here to stay. As a result, we are constantly adding new products to our dedicated BarCraft brand, which covers everything from cocktail shakers, corkscrews and glassware through to disco ball drinks jars, ready to mix cocktail infusions and pineapple cork holders!” The brand has been evolving for around 20 years to cover an increasingly diverse portfolio. “Cocktails continue to drive interest, alongside glassware, while specialist items such as brandy glass warmers and whisky gift sets are becoming as popular, as these drinks start to rise in popularity,” confirms Claire. “Recently hip flasks have seen a resurgence (just the right size for a nightclub clutch bag as Covid restrictions are lifted). We’ve focused on our new products ensuring that they are all Insta and bar trolley worthy as that’s what consumers really want. So, while some items may seem eclectic, they are in fact as much for display as they are for use.” She concludes: “Meet eclectic paradise – perfect for all year-round parties and get togethers.”

when it comes to sustainability. Alex reports: “Duralex tempered glassware is composed of natural materials sand, limescale and sodium carbonate with 90% of all Above: Jeray Original ingredients sourced Product’s Art in Glass Gift near to Duralex’s of the Year 2022 finalist. Below: BarCraft ‘s Seven factory at La Piece Hammered Cocktail Chapelle. Besides Gift Set from Lifetime Brands. being long-lasting (with resistance to mechanical stress and thermal shock), it is also fully recyclable.”

Taking time and considering wellbeing

Maintaining our physical and mental health has also become of upmost importance especially over the last year. In short, people have used recent events to create space on our internal hard drives. This whole emphasis on mental and physical wellbeing has had an important impact on what consumers are drinking; they are demanding access to great food and drink without having to compromise on health. The rapid rise of the no-lo drinks category has been led by consumers who didn’t know they needed a quality alcoholfree alternative until they had one. They were joined by people who simply didn’t want to drink alcohol as a religious or lifestyle choice, plus people who need to cut their intake for health reasons. In addition to this, there are some people who are certainly drinking less often but they want to consume quality drinks. So, they may have a delicious wine with their meal but an alcohol-free drink as an aperitif and are prepared to invest in good quality glassware.”

Clare Holland, brand manager at Meyer Group acknowledges that the impact of the pandemic and resulting shifts in lifestyles and consumers’ priorities has had a positive impact on the glassware category. She comments: “As a result of the last two years, as a nation, we have been brought together by a collective need to pause and reset our daily lives. Research found that 53% of us feel the pandemic has acted as a ‘reset button’ in our busy lives. So, as millions are now working from home, this has transformed everyday acts such as cooking and drinking into more meaningful rituals that divides home and working life. These mealtimes have now become pivotal parts of the day in which you take time to sit down as a family (sometimes even remotely) and perhaps take time to chat and socialise Above: Attracting good sales with its elegant design, Luigi Bormioli over a glass of wine.

Optica from JWP (part of Meyer Group) is a retro-look fluted design inspired by 1920s glassware. Right: CellarDine’s ChillCore alongside glasses by Tradestock.

Cheers to a perfect partnership “Having beautiful glassware is one thing but being able to offer outstandingly creative barware accessories alongside it is quite another, and our recently announced partnership agreement with CellarDine allows us to do just that,” states Tradestock’s managing director Keith Nye. He elaborates: “There is an array of lines from CellarDine that form the perfect partnership with Tradestock glassware, from on trend cocktail and wine accessories, to the iconic Zap Cap, creating a marriage made in heaven centred around barware and glassware.” Picking a perfect example, Keith says: “ChillCore solves the problem of warm wine, water or any soft drink. After charging in the freezer, simply place ChillCore inside the bottle to chill. It can remain in the bottle when pouring and ensures consistent temperatures.” He adds that for red wine lovers, “the Rouge O2 ensures perfect pouring and breathing directly from the bottle to the glass.” Adds Peter Dunne, managing director of CellarDine: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Tradestock for our independent retailer customers. Tradestock’s extensive experience and knowledge within the glassware category fits superbly with our collection. This partnership provides excellent opportunities for range extensions, merchandise adjacencies and product development, not just for UK customers but internationally.”

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1: Taste Glassware (packaged) by Freeform When it comes to glassware trends, Tradestock’s latest collections offer an inimitable choice for any occasion. Taste, which comes gift boxed in pairs, is an exquisite new range of fine crystal glassware from the Freeform brand comprising three sizes aimed at discerning wine buffs but also hugely versatile and suitable for no end of drinks, while offering the utmost in chic style. Beautifully crafted with soft sleek contours, these on-trend, stemless glasses have the lovely design feature of a small ‘boot’ base which allows the glass to sit perfectly in the palm of the hand for you to enjoy any drink from beers, wines, and spirits to cocktails, mocktails and fizz. Tradestock Ltd. T: 01823 661717 E: sales@tradestockltd.co.uk W: www.tradestockltd.co.uk

2: Final Touch For weddings and summer drinking Final Touch has designed stunning champagne flutes in the ‘twisted’ Conundrum range made of durable borosilicate glasses. Available in a two or four set, and tumblers to follow for hard seltzer: the latest on-trend drink from America. All presented in premium quality packaging and first-class imagery. Original Products T: 01494766566 W: www.originalproducts.co.uk

3: Zoku Barware Chill your favourite drinks with the ZOKU barware collection. Ice Ball Moulds create the perfect sphere of ice, great for liqueur tumblers. Meanwhile the versatility of the Mixology Mould Set is ideal for chilling any drink: containing three silicone ice moulds for creating jack, ball, and cube shapes. Simply fill the moulds, freeze, then easily open to remove the ice. Their simple and easy-to-use design perfects the balance of form and function. The Jumbo Ice tray set contains two spacesaver, stackable silicone trays with six large ice moulds each, plus two flavour guard lids. The Cool Moji, Naughty/Nice, Cheers, Party, Iceberg and Love Ice Moulds add fun as well as frozen flavour to your drinks. Burton McCall Ltd T: 0116 234 4611 E: sales@burton-mccall.com

4: ChillCore 3 in 1 by CellarDine ChillCore solves the problem of warm wine, water or any soft drink, without dilution due to ice cubes – ideal for what will, hopefully, be a long hot summer ahead. A unique air flow system allows the ChillCore to remain inside the bottle when pouring the wine, which ensures consistent temperatures and ease of use. When finished the ChillCore has a built in stopper for keeping the wine fresh for a few days. Easy to use, simply pre-charge in the freezer for a minimum of four hours and place inside the bottle. After 10 minutes the drink will be sufficiently chilled so you can sit back and relax. The ChillCore 3 in 1 system of chilling, pouring and preservation is an ideal gift for the wine enthusiast and for optimum enjoyment pair with one of the many glassware choices available throughout the Tradestock collection. Tradestock Ltd T: 01823 661717 E: sales@tradestockltd.co.uk W: www.tradestockltd.co.uk PROGRESSIVE

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5: Wheel ‘n’ Glass The Wheel ’n’ glass has an authentic rubber tyre base and a mirror insert to enhance the colour of the drink. A circular photo or message can be added in the base to personalise the glass at home. There will be a tumbler, highball, and beer version, as well as a golf and football theme ready this spring. Original Products T: 01494766566 W: www.originalproducts.co.uk

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1: The MindSet Collection Brabantia’s new bathroom collection, ‘MindSet,’ has been designed with your morning routine in mind. The wonderful fifteen-piece collection consists of bathroom essentials such as soap dispensers and toilet brush holders to tactile mineral coated tools, like a bathroom caddy to help organize your home spa and ease your mind. All items are available in Mineral Infinite Grey or Mineral Fresh White. Effortlessly keep your bathroom organised and allow yourself the space to reset your mind. Brabantia T: 01275 810600 E: sales.uk@brabantia.com W: www.brabantia.com/uk

2: Pink This Spring Hang clothes with pride with Brabantia’s Lift-O-Matic Rotary in new limited edition Spring Pink. This spirit-lifting steel rotary can hold up to four loads of washing across a generous 50M of hanging space. A proud statement of sustainable living, this bold rotary comes with a weatherresistant cover as well as a peg bag (with pegs included!). A great companion to hang out withwhat more do you need? Brabantia T: 01275 810600 E: sales.uk@brabantia.com W: www.brabantia.com/uk

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The Damp Duster makes it simple to wipe away dust and debris with the rippled sponge holding dust to it when wiped, rather than letting the dust fly away in the breeze. The sponge can be washed after every use, re-used, and can be applied anywhere in the home – from windows to fences. It is also available in two colours, yellow and silver. EVO LIFESTYLE PRODUCTS T: 0330 2200671 E: info@evolifestyle.co.uk W: evolifestyle.co.uk

Lexngo’s microwavable stainless steel container is an interesting new product that can be safely used in aby microwave oven. Featuring leakproof lids and removeable silicone seal rings as well as its Nestable design which helps save space. It is light, safe and durable with food-grade FDA and LFGB acceptance. Lexngo E: Carlotta@lexngo.com W: www.lexngo.com.sg/

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Manufactured from superior quality stainless steel with a mirror polished finish, each piece from the range is in a matching classic design and includes essential items knives, forks, teaspoons as well as cheese knife, serving spoons, cake servers and espresso spoons. An elegant design to fit any kitchen, perfect as a starter cutlery set or for when extra guests arrive. The items are all available in striking Tala Performance packaging, ready to retail. Tala, from Dayes T: 01728 833400 E: sales@dayesuk.com W: www.dayesuk.com

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1: Typhoon Botanics Set of 2 Cake Tins The Typhoon Botanics Set of 2 Cake Tins is perfect for storing your fresh bakes. With a lovely flower design, the set comes with a medium and large tin for extra storage and can be neatly nested on top of each other. Made from tin to keep contents fresh, the set helps to save space and looks beautiful for any afternoon tea setting or kitchen. Rayware T: 01514861888 E: customerservice@rayware.co.uk W: www.rayware.co.uk

2: Peugeot Appolia Range Clean and contemporary, Peugeot’s Appolia line of bakeware is designed for practicality. Square, rectangle, round, and oval vessel shapes, as well as Ecru and Slate colour options, means the Appolia range can cater to all tastes. The range supports freezing temperatures, allowing you to safely pass directly from the freezer to a preheated oven, without risk of a thermal shock (from -25° to 250°C). Once out of the oven, the dishes retain heat and keep food warm for up to 30 minutes, making them ideal for oven to tableware. All ceramics are also dishwasher and microwave safe. Specialist dishes, including meat pie, loaf pans, terrine and tarte dishes, makes Appolia your culinary companion from entrées through to desserts. Burton McCall Ltd T: 0116 234 4611 E: sales@burton-mccall.com

3: Kiln' by Denby Beautifully uncomplicated, Denby’s new ‘Kiln’ pattern is a true celebration of British craftsmanship. The calming palette of chalk white and hues of oatmeal and grey sit at ease against a unique freckling glaze effect which makes each piece unique from the next. The asymmetrical shape and hand-thrown features of the serving bowls and platter look characterful alongside functional place setting items. 'Kiln' includes home fragrance items such as ceramic candle pots and diffusers. Denby T: 01773 740770 E: sales.admindept@denby.co.uk W: www.denbpottery.com/trade

4: Studio Grey Accent The serene tones of Studio Grey have been recreated using layers of glazes that softly flow into each other to form a beautiful effect which was created by Denby's past masters. The new pieces perfectly enhance the Studio Grey collection as stunning additions for eating drinking and serving, but alone offer a whole range of possibilities to dress the table and the home. The new Studio Grey Accent pattern is available in Plates, Mugs, Serving Bowls and Tray and Oblong Platter and are hand-crafted at Denby Pottery using high quality, locally sourced clay. Denby T: 01773 740770 E: sales.admindept@denby.co.uk W: www.denbpottery.com/trade

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5: Tetris™ Stackers Storage Containers Check out the brand-new range of Tetris™ inspired storage containers from Fizz Creations, available in three different sets of three colourful Tetrimino shaped tubs. Each tub has holds 0.8L and can be used for food, stationery, crafts... in fact anything. Available from April. Fizz Creations T: 01903 327006 E: sales@fizzcreations.com W: fizzcreations.com

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New

Products

6: Mr Creation’s Ice Cream Station Coming this May in time for summer – Mr Creations Ice Cream Station! This super cute range gives a nostalgic nod to seaside visits for a delicious soft serve ice cream. The line includes an Ice Cream Maker and four accessory packs including sauces, ice cream mixes, sprinkles and paper cups – fun for all the family. Preorder now. Fizz Creations T: 01903 327006 E: sales@fizzcreations.com W: fizzcreations.com

7: MasterClass Smart Stack bakeware This premium collection of MasterClass bakeware can be stacked vertically for space efficient storage, easy access and clutter free cupboards – ideal for kitchens of any size and hits the consumer desire for organised, smarter and hassle free living. Each piece of bakeware in the collection can be stacked vertically in cupboards using the large, study lip. The lips ensure stable stacking and ensure it is easy to remove pans without others falling, so kitchen cupboards are kept organised and mess free. Lifetime Brands Europe T: +44 (0) 121 604 1111; E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.co.uk W: www.kitchencraft.co.uk

8: Design Toaster Digital 4S 10: La Cafetiere La Cafetière is re-brewed for 2022. New Pisa cafetières from La Cafetière feature contoured curves with natural textures for mindful moments. Designed to stimulate the senses with a blend of natural textures and modern functionality, the range is available in a selection of trend and perennial bestselling colours in a matt finish as well as classic silver and copper. The bestselling Monaco shape is redefined in ontrend lavender, mint, navy and grey. Lifetime Brands Europe T: +44 (0) 121 604 1111; E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.co.uk W: www.kitchencraft.co.uk

9: Brand New Slush Puppie Machines Get set for a summer of celebration as Fizz Creations launches three new kitchen gadgets as part of its iconic SLUSH PUPPiE collection. The two slushie machines will be joined by an Ice Cream Machine, a Milk Shake Maker, and a Soda Machine, all of which work with the classic syrups. The collection is ready to ship now with more product due soon – secure your stock now to avoid disappointment. Fizz Creations T: 01903 327006 E: sales@fizzcreations.com W: fizzcreations.com

PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

The GASTROBACK® comes in a modern stainlesssteel housing with removable crumb tray, its extrawide toast slots allow four slices of bread to be toasted at once. Rolls, croissants and muffins can also be easily warmed up using the integrated roll rack. It features seven toast programmes with preset toasting times, which can be selected via the user-friendly LCD display. A countdown timer shows the remaining toasting time on the display, and includes a four memory functions. Three additional buttons allow separate selection of warm-up, defrost, and stop functions. Automatic switch-off and energy-saving mode complete the many practical features of the Design Toaster Digital 4S. GASTROBACK E: marcus.lux@gastroback.de W: www.gastroback.co.uk

Greats 2022 SAVE THE DATE.qxp_Layout 1 14/01/2022 11:50 Page 1

SAVE THE DATE THURSDAY 12 MAY 2022 ROYAL LANCASTER HOTEL, LONDON 6:45pm UNTIL LATE, BLACK TIE

UNITING THE GIFT INDUSTRY Max Publishing in partnership with the Giftware Association Marking a significant unified step forward for the UK gift industry, the GA’s Gift of the Year (GOTY) awards and The Greats gift retailer awards are to join forces, with the winners of both awards programmes to be announced at a shared lavish black tie evening event. The two award programmes will see both gift product excellence and retail prowess recognised and rewarded at an awards event to make the whole industry proud, attended by hundreds of gift suppliers and retailers. The ownership and running of the Gift of the Year product awards, now in their 45th year, will remain under the stewardship of the Giftware Association while The Greats gift retailer awards, now in their 20th year, will continue to be wholly owned and run by Max Publishing (publishers of Progressive Gifts & Home magazine and giftsandhome.net). Both parties will work closely together to create an enjoyable and uplifting evening event that will truly celebrate the industry’s achievements, both on the product and retailing fronts.

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.THEGIFTAWARDS.COM

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ATTENTION SUPPLIERS…

Please do contact us about being involved in the next edition. These pages are managed by John Barry, who you can reach on johnb@max-publishing.co.uk

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Retailers love shiny new products, they really do. And they love to read about them here, in each issue of Progressive Housewares. For what is probably too small a sum, at just £125, you can showcase your latest innovations to our lovely loyal readership of cookshop and housewares retail buyers.

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New

Products

1: London Pottery Helping consumers maintain a sense of wellbeing while spending time at home with products that support healthy daily habits for body and mind is more important than ever. With new afternoon tea ranges as well as additions to bestselling Globe and Farmhouse teapot shapes, London Pottery ticks the box for mindful brews, everyday cuppas and infusion friendly brewing. Each London Pottery collection has been designed by celebrated ceramist David Birch, with features developed over years from drip free spouts to ceramic filters and lids designed to stay put while pouring. Lifetime Brands Europe: T: +44 (0) 121 604 1111 E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.co.uk W: www.kitchencraft.co.uk

SH FRES NEST HON COFFFEE

2: Toolbar Mixing bowl and colander set Introducing the toolbar™ mixing bowl and colander. These multi-functional nesting sets combine two staple pieces of equipment into an ideal spacesaving meal prep and baking companion for compact kitchens. With durable 18/10 stainless steel constructions, they are great 'BUY BETTER' alternatives to plastic. Cleverly designed precision drilled micropores, plus 180ml of drainage space prevent berries and salad leaves from going soggy, making these the perfect kitchen tool for summer. Available in 18cm and 21cm sizes. Winnington Housewares T: +447531134899 E: William@winningtonhousewares.co.uk W: www.winningtonhousewares.co.uk

38: New BUILT Pet Introducing BUILT Pet – petware that offers style by day and safety by night. On-the-go means on-thego with a four legged friend for a whole generation of pet lovers whose passion is fuelling demand for fashionable, functional accessories. BUILT petware goes the extra mile with a range of NightSafe™ reflective accessories. Made from patent pending durable polyester webbing, with custom designed reflective threading for safety at night, the NightSafe™ pet products weave reflective threads into the fabric, allowing the materials to remain flexible and colourful. The range includes dog collars and leads in three sizes. Lifetime Brands Europe T: +44 (0) 121 604 1111 E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.co.uk W: www.kitchencraft.co.uk

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BARIS T AANDCO TRADE.COM

012 02 619 500

PROGRESSIVE

HOUSEWARES

sales@baristaanndco.com

Engineered for design, Engineeredand for performance. design, innovation innovation and performance. Chosen by leading chefs and Chosen by leading chefs and home cooks all over the world. home cooks all over the world. High-Performance High-Performance Japanese Stainless Steel Japanese Blade Stainless for edge Steel and Blade forretention edge and sharpness sharpness retention

Tech Edge Blade Tech Edge Blade Innovative reverseInnovative wedge handlereversedesign. wedge handle design. Unique handle locks handle locks intoUnique the hand to reduce into the hand to reduce slip towards the blade slip towards the blade and hand fatigue. and hand fatigue. Designed with and Designed with and for professional chefs for professional chefs and home-cooking and home-cooking enthusiasts enthusiasts

Superfine Superfine cutting edge for for cutting edge “out-of-the box” box” sharpness Optimised Optimised bolster bolster design design allows allows full length length of of the the blade to be be easily easily used used to and sharpened sharpened and

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For more details on the Füri range, please For more details on the Füri range, please contact: Furi@fackelmann.co.uk contact: Furi@fackelmann.co.uk IBC_HW_March April 2022.indd 58

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Brabantia UK Limited sales.uk@brabantia.com 19/03/2022 16:01