Progressive Housewares october 2024 by Max Publishing: Print, Digital Media + Events (London)

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OVER 1 MILLION UNITS SOLD COUNTLESS MORNINGS PERKED UP

WELCOME

It really was wonderful to see so many of you at the Excellence in Housewares Awards earlier this month to celebrate the 2024 winners, but also the entire industry as we come to the last quarter of another year.

What we found with the product entries this year, reflected what we had been hearing from retailers. After a challenging few years, the volume of entries was static compared to last year, but that was more than made up for with the quality. Almost every range entered was a strong contender for its category and our judges truly had their work cut out for them when deciding on finalists and winners.

Retail entries showed the dedication and hard work our cookshops, department stores, garden centres, multiples and independents put into the selling of those innovative products, with fantastic customer service, wonderful retail displays and endless enthusiasm for the sector. It was a pleasure to be able to celebrate your successes with you all and I’m already looking forward to next year’s event.

This issue has a round up of the winners and great photos from a fun-filled evening. We hope you enjoy reliving the event. And if you weren’t there, make sure to get your seats for next year when tickets are release – you missed a great party.

The evening was also a wonderful opportunity to introduce many of you to our new commercial manager, Jo Pilcher. Joining with many years experience in trade publishing, Jo is a fabulous addition to our team. If you haven’t already chatted to her, I can guarantee you’ll be on her list in the not-too-distant future as she is on a mission to know everyone in this amazing industry as soon as possible.

A special mention to our EIHA guest ‘Dragon’, Theo Paphitis, who gave us a great insight into his housewares career in a special welcome speech, before being surprised with the Outstanding Achievement Award – congratulations Theo.

Elsewhere in this issue, we take a look ahead to the all-important fourth quarter, with some predictions from retailers about how the season will go and what is set to sell well ahead of the big day.

We also take a closer look at the knives sector, looking at innovation, consumer buying habits and changes to retailing; as well as the cleaning, storage and utility sector, which continues to go from strength to strength as housework and organisation remains a key trend across social media and beyond.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

Kaie Robes-Ms Editor

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www.progressivehousewares.co.uk www.max-publishing.co.uk www.housewaresnews.net

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ISSN 2515-7493

Below: Jo Pilcher, Rob Willis and Katie Roberts-Mason.

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TOP STORY

OXO extends John Lewis activation

Following its successful launch into the London Oxford Street store in 2023, OXO has extended its shop-in-shop concepts into six new John Lewis stores.

The shop-in-shop concepts are now installed in John Lewis stores in High Wycombe, Bluewater, Kingston, Southampton, Welwyn Garden City and White City. The new installations are smaller, more compact fixtures than the Oxford Street version, allowing OXO to test and learn from different formats for retailers which have less space available.

OXO’s new installations have been created off the back of a successful trial in the retailer’s flagship Oxford Street store. Max VialeSole, sales manager for UK and Ireland at OXO, expanded: “The Oxford Street concept has been really successful for a couple of reasons. Firstly it’s driven sales, but it’s done that not just by volume, but also through multiple purchase, so the average basket size has grown.

“Secondly we’ve seen people trade into different products, depending what we’re showing on top of the units. We’ve put ‘glorifiers’, which talk about the product on top, and because that’s really visible, people are engaging with it. Whenever we’ve changed those around, we’ve seen sales fluctuate for those specific SKUs.”

The OXO team has also provided comprehensive training with all John Lewis product coaches with virtual and in-person sessions, as well as follow-up training for new season lines.

Max continued: “We’re booking in sessions with each of the six new stores with the new fixture to explain why we are doing it and how it

works. John Lewis partners have been really receptive to having the brand featurisation and are pleased with the store installations.”

Going forward there are plans to roll out the concept to independent partners, with one instalment planned with Selbys, part of the Morleys Group, later this year. Max commented: “We’ve already installed one into Camp Hopson and that’s performing really well - they are seeing double digit growth over the last 33 weeks since the installation of the fixture. So it’s a really really strong performance, which is why we’re now getting more uptake from the group.

“We’re in discussions with a range of other retailers, so I’m hoping you’ll see a lot more from us next year. John Lewis was very much a lighthouse retailer for us to start conversations.”

Trevor Mottram is named gia UK winner

Trevor Mottram was announced as the gia UK winner 2024/25 at the Excellence in Housewares Awards at the Royal Lancaster London earlier this month.

As it approaches its 50th anniversary in 2025, the retailer took home the award, winning a trip to Chicago for the Inspired Home Show 2025, where it will also be awarded its trophy at the gia awards night.

The gia (Global Innovation Awards) programme is organised by the International Housewares Association and the Inspired Home Show, with Progressive Housewares and Housewaresnews.net as the UK sponsor. The programme has been celebrating housewares retailers around the world since 2000.

Trevor Mottram, which was also a finalist in the Independent Cookshop of the Year category at the Excellence in Housewares Awards 2024, will now compete for the Global Honoree Award. Five of the awards are presented each year and are judged by a panel consisting of gia’s retail experts and international magazine editors, with submissions from over 30 countries.

Right: The new OXO shop-in-shop installation in the John Lewis Bluewater store.

Wood with the gia UK award.

STAUB partners with Buster+Punch for new cookware launch

French cast iron specialist STAUB has partnered with London-based hardware innovators, Buster + Punch on a new cookware collection.

As part of the collaboration, English rapper, Professor Green and Michelin-starred chef, Tom Sellers have come together to celebrate and elevate another cultural icon; the Full English Breakfast, which can be perfectly cooked and served straight to the table using the new pieces.

2024 is STAUB’s 50th anniversary, and to mark half a century, the company has collaborated with Buster + Punch to transform the timeless STAUB staples of the Cocotte and Frying Pan into something special, modern and new. The new collaborative pieces, made from black cast iron, feature embossed Buster + Punch insignia, injecting the London brand’s trademark solid metal refinement and creative verve.

Each piece also boasts bespoke Buster + Punch handles in solid metal (available in either brass or steel), featuring the label’s signature precision knurling. The knurled Tbar for the Cocotte is also sold separately, so STAUB fans can retrofit and elevate existing products.

"Cookware is an area that’s interested me for a while,” explained Massimo Buster Minale, founder and creative director, Buster + Punch. “Especially the idea that it can be an extension of your style that you’re proud to display rather than hide in a cupboard. Working with Staub has been a great project on so many levels. Buster + Punch and Staub share a real passion for crafting with solid metals, and we’ve unified our design identities into pieces that are elevated in style and function. The goal was an iconic set of future heirlooms celebrating the joy of gathering for food and conversation.”

Beatrix Biren, global brand lead at STAUB added: “It was a collaborative effort, and we were thrilled to see how they interpreted our products and elevated them with their unique touch. Our partnership opens up exciting opportunities to reinvigorate a passion for cooking by accessing design enthusiasts who are also conscious of the products that they engage with in the kitchen.”

Demonstrating the versatility of the pieces is the next-level Full English curated by two Michelin-starred London Chef, Tom Sellers, served from the Cocotte and frying pan to its own soundtrack from Professor Green. To replicate the meal, owners of the STAUB x Buster + Punch pieces will be able to download the recipe.

F&F launches its first homeware brand

F&F Home includes over 1,000 lines across home dining, glassware, rugs and footstools, bedding, soft furnishings and decorative accessories.

Tesco said the new brand has been created in response to the idea that many now see their home style as an extension of their fashion style. Tesco’s in-house F&F Home design team and trend experts have developed and curated the range, which starts from 50p, focusing on whites and neutrals.

F&F Home chief executive Jan Marchant said: “Fashion now does homeware. Our clothing customers always want to stay ahead of the latest trends and get great value for money, without compromising on quality.

“With this exciting first foray into homeware, we’re really pleased to be able to help deliver this same commitment in the home space, with both statement and staple pieces to work with all-manner of styles and tastes.”

F&F Home head of design, Donna Bridgeman added: “We’re really excited to launch F&F Home with our A/W 24 range, rooted in neutral palettes, timeless shapes, and tactile cosy fabrics.

“We’ve worked tirelessly to create pieces that hold longevity in their styles and can form the foundations of a restful, calm, and balanced home. The simplicity of using barely-there colours is our key focus for creating a contemporary cosy look, bringing warmth into homes for paired back effortless style in the winter months. I can’t wait to see how our shoppers style the pieces in their own homes.”

Above: F&F Home A/W 24 range is rooted in neutral palettes, timeless shapes, and tactile, cosy fabrics. next-level Full English, served from the Cocotte.

Housewares industry joins together to celebrate EIH Awards

The winners of the this year’s Excellence in Housewares Awards were announced at a lavish ceremony at the Royal Lancaster London on Wednesday 2 October, 2024, with hundreds of industry execs donning their finest attire for an evening of celebration.

Burton McCall kindly welcomed guests with a champagne reception, before the evening’s events were kicked off by comedian Ignacio Lopez, who was host for the awards.

The raffle then took place with star prizes of a £1,000 cheque and a race day experience in an Audi R8 LMS Ultra with The Stig himself.

Other generous donations came from the venue itself (Royal Lancaster London) who offered an overnight stay its 5 star venue, a generous shopping voucher from BHETA and Exclusively, homeware product ranges from Smeg, DK Household Brands, Find Your Glow and Laura Ashley, a champagne tasting experience personally donated by Rainy Day Trust ceo Bryan Clover, and the ever-popular ‘very posh hamper’ (Fortnum & Mason) generously donated by Le Creuset. The raffle raised over £4,500 for industry charities, The Rainy Day Trust and The Light Fund.

The award winners were then announced, culminating in entrepreneur, Dragon and Robert Dyas owner, Theo Paphitis, being

awarded the Outstanding Achievement accolade for his work in the retail and housewares sectors.

Guests then enjoyed a specially designed cocktail from Airtender, drinks from the OXO bar, casino tables courtesy of Expose Travel and airbrush tattoos from the on-site artist.

Turn to page 24 for photos from the evening and a run down of all the evening’s worthy winners.

Spring Fair 2025 launches 75th anniversary podcast series

Spring Fair, which takes place on the 2–5 February 2025 at the NEC, has launched a new Retail Insights podcast series for retail and by retail, to celebrate the show’s 75th anniversary, as well as to shine a light on businesses in the industry.

A first of its kind for a retail trade show, Spring Fair has collaborated with designer and TV personality Jeff Banks CBE, to create a series of 15 free podcasts, featuring interviews with industry figureheads which will run over a period of 14 weeks.

The series was designed to give a voice back to the retail community who have been a part of Spring Fair, to celebrate the rich heritage of Spring Fair. Featuring guests with a huge breadth of knowledge of the retail industry, the series will benefit retail businesses of all sizes.

The candid conversations reflect on the past, present and future of retail – the stories that come out of building a retail business or being part of a retail business, stories that will inspire and resonate with many in the industry.

Listeners will be able to hear Jeff in conversation with independent retailers – to include Nest,

Alligator Pear and Coopers of Stortford, as well as brands such as Enesco, Talking Tables and Candlelight, plus buying group EK Retail, along with The Giftware Association and the Greetings Card Association, (GCA) – as they discuss an array of insightful topics.

The interviews also reflect on what it means to be part of the retail community, how to keep your company relevant for over 30 years, the power of storytelling, and how to stay true to environmental strategies and make a profit.

“In honour of Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary, we’re shining a light on the incredible businesses that continue to make this a successful event for the retail industry,” explained Soraya Gadelrab, event director of Spring Fair. “As we embark on this milestone event, and reflect on the journey we’ve taken together, for the coming 2025 show we’ll be turning our focus outwards. After all, we can’t celebrate Spring Fair’s 75-year history without honouring the people and community who got us here.

“We are incredibly excited to launch this anniversary podcast series – which is available for

free to retail to help inspire. As a business leader or owner in retail this podcast is for you.”

Added Jeff Banks:

“Spring Fair is still one of the biggest trade exhibitions in Great Britain and I have spent many a productive and inspiring day at the show over the years – it has been integral to the success of my designer collaborations with brands exhibiting there.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to work with the Spring Fair team to create this thoughtful and stimulating podcast series to celebrate the show’s incredible 75 years and help champion the people and businesses that make up the Spring Fair community.”

Above: The winners of the Excellence in Housewares Awards 2024 with the Progressive Housewares team.

Above: The podcast series is hosted by designer and TV personality, Jeff Banks.

Dobbies to close 17 stores in restructuring plan

Garden centre chain, Dobbies, has announced it will close 17 of its 77 stores as its new owners look to return the group to profitability.

The company said it is seeking the approval of creditors for a restructuring plan designed to reduce its rent bill. The closures are planned by the end of 2024 and will include 11 large centres and all six of its Little Dobbies sites.

Dobbies was bought last year by Ares Management investment company. The group fell to a £105.2m pre-tax loss in the year ending March 2023, compared to a £7m loss the previous year.

Dobbies said: “The restructuring plan, and other strategic initiatives, are expected to return Dobbies to sustainable profitability through site rationalisations, rent reductions and other tangible cost savings, securing its long-term future and allowing access to future investment.

“Thereafter, Dobbies will operate 60 stores and continue to play a key role in the market, working constructively with stakeholders and suppliers, and having an active and committed role in the communities in which it’s based.”

IHA appoints new board members

Tupperware voluntarily files for bankruptcy

Tupperware Brands has filed for bankruptcy protection, citing mounting losses due to poor demand for its products.

Tupperware will seek court approval to continue operating during the proceedings and says it remains focused on providing its customers with its award-winning, innovative products.

The company will also seek court approval to facilitate a sale process for the business, to protect its brand and further advance its transformation into a digital-first, technology-led company.

Following the appointment of a new management team within the last year, Tupperware has implemented a strategic plan to modernise its operations, bolster omnichannel capabilities and drive efficiencies to ignite growth.

“Whether you are a dedicated member of our Tupperware team, sell, cook with, or simply love our Tupperware products, you are a part of our Tupperware family. We plan to continue serving our valued customers with the high-quality products they love and trust throughout this process,” said Laurie Ann Goldman, president and ceo of Tupperware.

“Over the last several years, the company’s financial position has been severely impacted by the challenging macroeconomic environment. As a result, we explored numerous strategic options and determined this is the best path forward.

“This process is meant to provide us with essential flexibility as we pursue strategic alternatives to support our transformation into a digital-first, technology-led company better positioned to serve our stakeholders.”

Five industry veterans have been elected to the board of directors of the International Housewares Association (IHA).

The new directors are Alexander Gransbury, founder and ceo, Dreamfarm; Lauren Greenwood, president, YouCopia Products; Henry Liu, president & ceo, Cangshan Cutlery; Pamela Stafford, managing director, Hestan Culinary; and Kelly Walsh, vice president, KitchenSupply. Their three-year terms begin on 1 October, 2024 and end 30 September, 2027.

Also elected were new board officers

Chairman – Paul Cosaro, ceo, Picnic Time Family of Brands

Vice chairman/chairman elect – Michael Otterman, president & ceo, Lodge Cast Iron Treasurer – Tom McMahon, president, JURA

All officers serve one-year terms from 1 October, 2024 to 30 September, 2025.

Retiring from the board are Steve Greenspon, ceo, Honey-Can-Do International; Yvette Laugier; Lisa Knierim, chief development officer, Creative Tops; Rob Michelson, president & cco, Bradshaw Home; Keith Mirchandani, founder and ceo, Trend Makers; and Luke Peters, president and ceo, NewAir.

Re-appointed for a second term was Glenn DeStefano, president, Storebound

DK Household Brands names new md

DK Household Brands has appointed Tom Hamer as its new managing director, UK & Ireland.

The appointment marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing transformation and growth strategy. Tom brings a wealth of experience in the retail sector and is expected to lead the company towards further innovation and market expansion.

Tom commented: “I’m excited to be joining DK Household Brands during this new era of growth and global integration. Our strategy is to enhance our effectiveness as a multi-brand company across all our markets, including Cole & Mason, Zyliss and AdHoc and to capitalise on opportunities to drive growth.

“Our focus is to provide retailers with a more innovative and diverse product range as well as enhanced support and collaboration.”

The appointment is part of DK Household Brands’ broader strategy to enrich homes around the world with high-quality products that extend beyond the kitchen into living spaces.

Tom will report to group ceo, Jacob Oesterhaab and play a key role in the group leadership team, as the company finalises integration of its companies into the new DK Household Brands Group.

Above: Dobbies new plans are designed to return the retailer to sustainable profitability.

Above: Tupperware is seeking court approval to facilitate a sale process for the business.

Right: Tom Hamer, managing director of DK Household Brands.

Above: (l-r) Alexander Gransbury, Lauren Greenwood, Henry Liu, Pamela Stafford and Kelly Walsh.

Dunelm sales up 4.1% in FY24 results

Total sales at Dunelm for the year ended 29 June 2024 were up 4.1% to £1.7 billion.

Digital sales also increased by 1% to 37% of total sales during the year. Gross margin increased from 50.1% in FY23 to 51.8% in FY24, while profit before tax was up 6.6% year-onyear to £205.4 million.

Over the year, the home retailer reported an increase in active customers of 5.1%, with growth across all age, income and geographic cohorts. Dunelm said its customers responded well to its relevance, value and choice with sales growth driven by volumes (+6.2%).

Looking ahead, the retailer says it continues to see a challenging consumer environment and the timing of a sector recovery remains uncertain. Dunelm expects sales growth in FY25 to be driven by volume and further market share gains.

Nick Wilkinson, ceo, commented: “This strong set of results is testament to the hard work of our adaptable and committed colleagues. In a period when consumers faced inflationary pressures and competing demands for their disposable income, we have continued to raise the bar on the relevance and value we offer at Dunelm. The continued delivery of volume-driven sales growth and further share gains in this softer market underlines this, and the strength and resilience of our business model.”

Fackelmann Brands UK acquires Apollo Housewares

Fackelmann Brands UK has acquired Apollo Housewares, a UK-based provider of value driven home and kitchen products.

This strategic acquisition will enhance Fackelmann Brands UK’s product portfolio and expand its market presence in the UK.

“We are delighted to welcome Apollo Housewares into the Fackelmann Brands family,” said Alexander Fackelmann, president, Fackelmann Brands. “Apollo’s outstanding reputation for quality value driven products in housewares perfectly complements our values. This acquisition will significantly broaden our product portfolio and strengthen our position in the UK market.”

Apollo Housewares UK is renowned for its quality, value driven assortment. The integration of Apollo’s portfolio with Fackelmann Brands UK’s extensive distribution network will create new growth opportunities and provide greater value to customers.

David Phillips and John Richmond, founders of Apollo Housewares stated: “Teaming up with Fackelmann Brands is a major milestone for Apollo. Our combined strengths will enhance customer service and drive further range developments focused on the UK consumer.”

The acquisition is effective immediately, with both companies committed to ensuring a smooth transition for customers, suppliers, and employees.

Housewares suppliers feature on the Big Christmas Wishlist

The Big Christmas Press Show has revealed the most coveted products ahead of Q4 on The Big Christmas Wishlist.

The industry event invites over 60 brands and retailers to showcase their latest products and innovations for Christmas 2024 to media and content creators.

The Wishlist Awards, now in its second year, gives insight into the top trends and products predicted to be a sell-out this festive season. The winners feature new products from some of the UK’s biggest brands.

Winners were chosen by an independent panel of judges which was carefully curated to offer a diverse range of expertise across TV and broadcast, business, social influence and consumer perspectives. Each category is represented by three winners.

Courtney Rogers, founder of CIJ Group and The Big Christmas Press Show said: “The Big Christmas Wishlist Awards not only showcases some of the most sought-after products on offer this Christmas but serves as a testament to the innovation and success of leading brands in the UK and beyond.

“It is always a privilege to collaborate with these exciting brands and retailers and I think you’ll agree that the judges have done a fantastic job of selecting the top Christmas gifts for 2024 and curating the ultimate Christmas Wishlist Gift Guide.”

Housewares suppliers featured in the following categories: Home

• Dualit Cocoatiser Hot Chocolate Maker in Copper

• NOTHS Kate Charlton’s Personalised Festive Plate

• Russell Hobbs Steam Genie 2in1 Handheld Clothes Steamer Food and drink

• Thermos Icon Straw Cup Tech and Gadget

• Morphy Richards Mico Microwave Toastie Sandwich Maker Big kids

• Uncanny Brands Harry Potter Hogwarts Checkmate Mini Waffle (from DKB Toys) Splurge

• Robert Welch Champagne/Wine Bucket Grand

TOP STORY

John Lewis reinstates Never Knowingly Undersold

John Lewis has reaffirmed its commitment to customers on quality products, brilliant service and competitive prices with a refreshed brand promise to reflect how customers shop today.

Never Knowingly Undersold is to be reimagined with a promise that matches prices in store and now online with 25 retailers including Amazon (on technology), AO.com and M&S.

The Never Knowingly Undersold brand promise was a hallmark of customer trust in John Lewis for nearly a century. It was paused two years ago after customers told the retailer the price promise was too complicated and the exclusion of online retailers did not reflect how they were shopping.

Following a multi-million pound investment, an improved and simplified price promise will use AI technology to check prices at 25 online and high street brands. If the price is lower, they will then be matched by John Lewis. The move gives customers peace of mind that they’re getting great value – with money back if they find it cheaper at one of those 25 brands within seven days.

Never Knowingly Undersold is one element of a comprehensive ongoing investment plan. The retailer also plans to reinvigorate the home offer – the heartland categories will lead the market with stylish products for every taste, underpinned by a quality assortment of everyday essentials.

Leading guarantees and warranties with a minimum two year guarantee are also now included on all electricals at no extra cost.

Peter Ruis, executive director at John Lewis, said: “We are reimagining Never Knowingly Undersold for how customers shop today – offering great quality, service and prices in store and online – and re-starting the conversation as to what it means to Live Knowingly in the 21st century.”

Nish Kankiwala, the John Lewis Partnership’s chief executive, said: “This is a significant and critical milestone in the modernisation of our John Lewis customer proposition. It represents further evidence of the retail focused transformation of our Partnership and is a very proud moment for our Partners and an exciting prospect for our customers.”

Sharon White, the John Lewis Partnership’s chairman, added: “Now is the right time for Never Knowingly Undersold to return in a form that will resonate with customers whether they’re shopping in store or online.

I’m delighted that Peter and his team are reinvigorating the John Lewis promise to our customers for the 21st century and I am excited to see the brand go from strength to strength, today as chairman and in future as a customer.”

Above: Dunelm has seen an increase in active customers of 5.1% over the year.

Above: Apollo Housewares is a UKbased provider of value driven home and kitchen products.

Above: As part of its plans, John Lewis will reinvigorate the home offering.

Above: The Thermos Icon Straw Cup was a winner in the food and drink category.

DK Household Brands and Divertimenti Cookery School recently held a launch event for their new partnership for the Zyliss brand of tools and gadgets, hosted by author and influencer Elly Curshen, aka Elly Pear.

RECIPE FOR

SUCCESS

Abetween DK Household Brands and Divertimenti Cookery School, has seen the supplier become an official kitchenware partner for the London-based school. As part of this, Divertimenti will integrate the company’s range of tools and gadgets into its cookery classes and events.

The partnership was launched this month with a class from Elly Curshen, founder of Bristol’s Pear Café, author of Sunday Times bestseller Fast Days and Feast Days and Elly Pear’s Let’s Eat and Waitrose Weekend columnist.

Elly used Zyliss tools to demonstrate recipes for Christmas leftovers, creating a quick and easy pickling recipe to preserve leftover veg and a cheese toastie creation to use up the last of the cheeseboard, before using frozen satsumas to grate over ice cream for dessert.

“In addition to the garlic press, he created the onion chopper and salad spinner,” Sheena said.

The current Zyliss team now works constantly to improve the products to include new, useful functions, as well as new product innovation. Sheena continued: “We are undergoing a brand transition, very much in line with Karl’s innovative spirit. Of course we’re constantly thinking about functionality, but we’re also trying to think about what else we can innovate to stay more focused.

“We’re thinking of materials we’re using, such as the wheat straw in our utensils, which recently won the Eco Award at the Excellence in Housewares Awards, which reduces the virgin plastic in our products.”

bring our distinguished houseware brands to an audience that values quality and innovation.

“We’re really looking forward to enhancing the cooking experience for attendees and creating unforgettable culinary moments, while showcasing the best of what our brands have to offer.”

Jules Kane, head of The Divertimenti Cookery School, commented: “We’re equally enthusiastic about this new partnership. DK Household Brands shares our passion for all things food and education. We host workshops and cooking demonstrations, featuring industry experts and renowned chefs.

“DK Household Brands’ high-quality products and dedication to innovation make them the perfect partner for our school. We look forward to working together to inspire and equip our students in our classes and workshops.”

Ellie was joined by Sheena Ohnemus, global brand manager, Zyliss, who talked through the history of the brand, as well as the DK Household Brands team.

Zyliss was founded in 1951 in Lyss in Switzerland by Karl Zysset, a pioneer in the kitchen space. Sheena explained: “Karl changed the way we prep food and cook food all around the world.”

Having worked in a bicycle repair shop, Karl came up with the idea of applying the principle of a bicycle brake to create the world’s first garlic press.

There is also a new knife collection launching with the wheat straw handles, packaged with only recycled and recyclable materials.

Elly also demonstrated the Zyliss airtight storage boxes which can be used in the oven, freezer and dishwasher, as well as various utensils including peelers, graters, mashers and more, each with their own unique features.

Heidi Thomas, head of marketing for DK Household Brands, said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Divertimenti Cookery School, a name synonymous with culinary excellence. This partnership allows us to

Inset: Author and influencer, Elly Curshen demonstrated Christmas leftover recipes using the Zyliss range. Below left: A selection of the new Zyliss utensils, featuring the wheat straw materials, along with the EIHA Eco Award.

Inset: Sheena Ohnemus, global brand manager for Zyliss, talked about the latest Zyliss innovation.

BHETA makes headway on EPR lobbying

BHETA’s lobbying campaign – joint with members - aimed at making DEFRA rethink its Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme in terms of proposed targeting, scope and costs, has seen its first result, a somewhat revised tariff level that will see an annual saving of £4.1 million extrapolated across the BHETA membership, against the figures announced in August.

Will Jones, BHETA’s coo commented: “The new reduced tax rates announced by DEFRA in September are a great first step and very much in the right direction, but it is only a first step. The jump in costs for all product suppliers who use packaging is still eyewatering, rising to an annual (revised scheme) £12.5m from the current £1.7m of packaging tax under the current PRN scheme.

“Also, the targeting of suppliers and own label retailers - and no-one else - is still inequitable. I welcome this news on tariff reduction, but the campaign is still very much on. We need acknowledgement of the wider issues and the remaining rise in costs, which is huge and unsustainable.”

The EPR scheme is an additional tax, which targets branded product suppliers and retailers of own label goods. It represents a shift in financial responsibility for the treatment of household waste and packaging, moving it 100% to suppliers and retailers.

To date, the cost of domestic kerbside recycling disposal is split roughly as 10% by producers through PRNs; 10% by retailers; 80% by the taxpayer. Under EPR, this will change to the whole cost of collection and disposal met by suppliers through modified PRNs.

Packaging producers affected are any business, subsidiary or group that is not a charity, with annual turnover over £2m and responsible for more than 50 tonnes of packaging in a calendar year. Any business with turnover of £1m+ and responsible for 25 tonnes or more of packaging in a calendar year, must report their detailed EPR data.

Thanks to business lobbying activity by individuals and trade associations such as BHETA, the reduction in tariffs announced by DEFRA includes a proposed 27% reduction in the Intermediate ‘Paper or Board’ packaging charge and a 17% reduction in the Intermediate ‘Plastic’ packaging charge.

Will commented: “As we can all see the potential saving is not insignificant and I’m delighted with the impact of BHETA lobbying so far. We will however, be keeping the pressure on DEFRA and urge all members to continue doing the same. The hike in costs is still very high despite DEFRA’s backdown to date.

“We also still have the unfair targeting issue to address as UK producers are being asked to pay the price of processing all products sold into the UK, from both UK and overseas suppliers.”

BHETA to host webinar of food service sector opportunities

BHETA is hosting a webinar with FEA (Food Equipment Association) on Thursday 24 October at 10:30am, presented by John Cunningham, chief executive of the FEA.

The FEA is the UK’s largest independent food service equipment trade association. It provides a unified voice for the commercial food service and catering equipment sector.

The webinar is suitable for housewares and SDA suppliers and has been designed to help BHETA members understand the opportunities within the HoReCa (hotel, restaurant, catering) sector.

BHETA’s sector manager for housewares and small domestic electricals, Seema Grantham commented: “With the reset of lockdown still in all our memories, it is fair to say trends in cooking and dining styles – whether in homes or in restaurantshave probably never been closer or more mutually influential. It’s something that BHETA embraces and is ever keener to work closely with the FEA as a result. This webinar is a great way for supplier members to explore the opportunities.”

BHETA welcomes VAGGROUP

Housewares and garden wholesaler, VAGGROUP has joined BHETA.

Founded in 2019 as a specialist in high quality pet care products from global brands, the company has transitioned into a wholesaler and distributor of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG).

Today, VAGGROUP’s portfolio spans from pet and veterinary to garden and farm supplies, home and kitchen goods, food products and sports goods.

Each category has been chosen with the intent to provide quality and value, ensuring every new offering meets the evolving demands of customers.

Based in Northampton, the company’s plans include leveraging technology to enhance distribution networks, exploring eco-friendly and sustainable product options, and expanding reach into export.

The wholesale programme is open to retailers, resellers and distributors.

Supplier clients now include 200 brands including the likes of Braun, LG and Dyson.

Seema Grantham, BHETA’s sector manager for housewares said: “VAGGROUP provides excellent warehousing and inventory management processes which our housewares and garden clients may well find valuable. I am delighted to welcome the company to BHETA.”

Above: VAGGROUP is a wholesaler and distributor of FMCG products.

Inset: The EPR scheme is an additional tax, which targets branded product suppliers and retailers of own label goods.

Inset: The webinar will explore the opportunities within the HoReCa sector.

The Autumn Statement - What indies need

As we approach the end of 2024, the retail sector eagerly awaits the Autumn Statement from our new Labour government. BIRA's ceo, Andrew Goodacre, shares his thoughts on what independent retailers need and expect from this crucial fiscal announcement.

The past year has been one of significant change for the UK. With a new government at the helm, there's cautious optimism about fresh approaches to long-standing issues affecting our high streets. However, the challenges facing independent retailers remain formidable.

As we've seen in previous years, the Autumn Statement can have farreaching implications for our sector. This year, we're calling on the Chancellor to deliver certainty, clarity and stability for independent traders - elements that have been in short supply recently.

One of our primary concerns is business rates. For years, BIRA has lobbied for a comprehensive review of this outdated system. We believe that reducing business rates for all high streets would inject muchneeded confidence and stability back into bricks-and-mortar retail. This isn't just about helping individual businesses; it's about revitalising our town centres and communities.

Energy costs continue to be a significant burden for many of our members. While we welcomed previous support measures, we need a long-term strategy that addresses the unique needs of small businesses. We're hoping to see targeted support for those most affected, coupled with incentives for energy efficiency improvements. This approach would not only help reduce costs, but also align with broader sustainability goals.

The labour market presents another challenge. Many are struggling with recruitment and retention. We're looking for measures that support skills development and make it easier for small businesses to invest in their workforce. This could include enhancements to apprenticeship schemes or tax incentives for training programmes. Consumer confidence is, of course, crucial to our sector's success. We're hoping for policies that put more money in people's pockets, encouraging spending on our high streets. This could involve adjustments to income tax or National Insurance contributions. However, it's not just about direct financial measures. We need policies that recognise and support the unique value of independent retail. This could include funding for high street regeneration projects, support for local business communities, or initiatives to encourage 'shop local' campaigns.

Digital transformation remains a key issue. While many independents have made great strides in this area, particularly since the pandemic, more support is needed. We'd welcome measures to help smaller retailers enhance their online presence and integrate digital technologies into their operations.

Sustainability is another area where government support could make a significant difference. Many of our members are keen to adopt more environmentally friendly practices, but find the initial costs prohibitive. Incentives or grants in this area could help accelerate the sector's green transition.

As we await the Autumn Statement, it's clear that the decisions made will have a profound impact on the future of independent retail.

As we await the Autumn Statement, it’s clear that the decisions made will have a profound impact on the future of independent retail. ” “ Andrew Goodacre

At BIRA, we remain committed to being a strong voice for our members, ensuring that the unique challenges and opportunities of our sector are understood and addressed at the highest levels of government.

Independent retailers are the backbone of our high streets and local communities. They bring diversity, character and personal service that can't be replicated by large chains or online giants. As such, supporting them isn't just good economic policy - it's essential for maintaining the vibrancy and uniqueness of our towns and cities.

We look forward to analysing the Autumn Statement in detail and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the needs of independent retailers are met, both in this fiscal event and beyond. Our sector's resilience has been tested time and again, but with the right support, I'm confident that we cannot just survive, but thrive in the years to come.

Introducing our new durable storage solution! Easier to clean thanks to a seamless design, the new OXO Silicone Bags replace single-use plastic food storage. Ideal for the kitchen and beyond, these leakproof bags keep your food fresh while reducing waste.

Holly Wilson’s From The Frontline

The f quaer

or reason to it - but I’m not complaining. We didn’t even have a huge amount of new stock. September was okay, too. Everyone is back in the swing of things post-holiday and trade has returned to a more traditional pattern, with quieter weekdays and busier weekends. But the weather, as ever, is keeping everyone on their toes.

We are building our stock now ready for Christmas. We didn’t do Maison et Objet in Paris as it was the same week as the kids going back to school and my son starting secondary school. He is still talking to me in public for now, but we will see how long that lasts. I did briefly visit Top Drawer, but there really isn’t much for a cookshop there now, so that might be my last visit. So I’m buying from my existing suppliers - taking on new lines and also getting some good Christmas stock from Faire. It’s still so great for small drops of something new.

Staffing has still been giving me a headache at PREP. We pushed through the summer with a motley crew of existing staff, friends and acquaintances and they all did a wonderful job, but I'm ready to have a more stable team for peak season. September has all been about interviews and trial shifts. I’ve done so many interviews that the cafe opposite has a reserved table for me. But I think I’ve cracked it for now. My friend is staying on until the New Year and I have taken on a new weekend team member, who has lots of retail experience, so I’m hopeful. The last few weeks have therefore been about tidying and reorganising the shop; finding stock that’s hiding in the stock room, having been overlooked by the ever-changing hands of cover staff; and generally just getting things ready for all the stock that is pouring in and for the next stage of training new staff and preparing for Christmas.

We are currently planning our annual Stoke Newington Halloween and Christmas community events to make them bigger and better than ever. Halloween will follow its usual format but with more shops joining in, we hope to be able to collect even more food for the Hackney Food bank.

The Christmas event is planned and being put into motion, with some fun new ideas. I’ve been too tied up so far to have much involvement, but hoping now that my recruitment drive is over, I will have some

time back to dedicate to this.

In Primrose Hill, the traders are starting the battle with the council for parking spaces. During Covid a huge amount of parking spaces got taken away to make way for ‘streeteries’ so people could dine outside during restrictions. This made it more challenging for the shops, but we were happy to support each other, so we all survived.

swapped for wooden planters. But now the council have decided to make them permanent and to remove almost all of the parking on the street. In an ideal world this is a great idea - cafe society, beautiful planters and wider pavements, great environmental benefits.

However for the businesses on the street, this means a huge reduction in footfall. Most of our customer base drives from nearby areas and I’m not saying that’s right, but it is the facts. They do not travel by bus, they are not that demographic. So if they can’t drive, they don’t come. With all the will in the world, the council are not going to persuade these people that giving up their cars is a good idea. We hear from our customers all the time that they can’t find a space, so can’t stop to spend time on the street when they want to. It’s frustrating. We will see how successful we are at petitioning this change.

I’m hopeful for a decent last quarter if I can get all my stock in and my staff trained. I hope everyone is feeling hopeful and that you have a great run up to Christmas.

Post Covid, these got made semipermanent when the plastic barriers were

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

Inset: Stock is beginning to arrive for the busy Christmas period. Below left: Holly is hopeful for a strong fourth quarter in the stores. Below right: Holly is joining other Primrose Hill traders in a battle for less parking restrictions around the Richard Dare store.

Over 260 years of across the whole kitchen ACCURACY & PRECISION

Starting in 1760 and best known for weighing scales, Salter’s accuracy and precision cannot be doubted. Now, with over 260 years of reliability and heritage, the Salter brand’s expertise stretches over multiple categories, with products to take you from morning until night.

‘The lunch bell’

The lunch menu options are endless thanks to Salter’s wide array of kitchen gadgets that make lunchtimes quick, easy and healthy. As soon as the clock strikes 12, consumers can look to Salter for simple home cooking that will keep things varied and interesting, no more packet sandwiches. For busier homes who require lunch on the move, these products are perfectly positioned to help with batch cooking and meal prep too. From panini makers to health grills,

‘Good morning’

Begin each morning with a smile thanks to Salter, which has developed all the tools needed to cook up the ideal breakfast. A (rapid-boiled) cuppa, alongside a perfectly poached egg and a slice of toasted sourdough; this expert-level breakfast doesn’t happen by chance. When it comes to a mid-morning coffee, there’s choice aplenty; frothy cappuccinos, silky smooth lattes or rich espressos. From coordinating kettles and toasters to cookware and coffee machines, Salter can make the perfect morning routine look easy.

to soup makers and slow cookers, with coordinating blenders and mixers.

Health grills to snack makers

‘Afternoon tea’

When it comes to baking, there’s nothing more important than accuracy and precision. With over 260 years of experience, Salter products are the perfect partner to home baking routines. Offering coordinating bakeware, cookware, scales and baking appliances, choose Salter for style as well as performance when it comes to homemade cakes, and breads.

‘Dinner

is on the table’

The

kitchen is the heart of every home, and sharing that countertop space with Salter makes consumers feel like an expert, everyday.

Cooking a home-made meal from scratch can sometimes feel unfeasible for many busy family homes, which is why Salter has developed time-saving food prep gadgets, energy-saving air fryers and versatile microwaves to keep mealtimes simple. With lots of different products to provide flexibility and versatility to consumers, Salter know it’s important to get delicious and healthy food on the table promptly.

Scales to bakeware

Air fryers to microwaves

Contact our sales team sales@upplc.com to find out more.

PARTY TIME

Excellence in Housewares Awards. Here’s a snapshot of yet another great party.

Top: The winners of the Excellence in Housewares Awards 2024, along with comedian, Ignacio Lopez and the PH team – Jo Pilcher, Katie Roberts-Mason and Rob Willis.

Left: Retailers and suppliers alike enjoying the Airtender cocktails.

Right: Sainsbury’s Victoria Owen and RKW’s Rob Sutton enjoying Burton McCall’s welcome drinks.

Below left: Pure Table Top’s glow sticks went down a storm.

Left: Special guest and Outstanding Achievement winner, Theo Paphitis with the Robert Dyas team.

Right: Kuhn Rikon’s Edward Margetts and Paul Marchant celebrate with Potters Cookshop’s Alison Hobbs and Tom Carter.

Inset: Flip flops for tired feet, courtesy of Beldray

Inset: OXO provided the post-awards bar for guests.

Above right: L-r: John Lewis’ Diana Brown, Lisa Rutherford, Harriet Fern, Jessica Youngs, Angela Jimenez and Mepal’s Linda Barnaart.

Right: The DKB Toys & Distribution team (l-r) Edel Siddle, James Luff, Grace BurtonRees and Chris Lohmeyer.

Top left: L-r: Hayley Malinowski (Eleanor Bowmer), Jillian Gornall, (Pure Table Top) designer Eleanor Bowmer and Raven Sprague (Pure Table Top) celebrate their win.

Above: Ultimate Products’ Jenny Stewart, Tracy Carol and Duncan Singleton party with Bents’ Emma Kelly (far right) and husband Marc Kelly, md of Cuddleco (far left).

Left: BHETA’s Will Jones and Pendeford’s Lee Parkin.

Below left: Burton McCall head of sales, Mohamed Hajat, with Gia UK winner, Sarah Wood, owner of Trevor Mottram. Bottom left: The lucky winner of Beldray’s £1000 raffle prize –Harrods’ Margaret Osei-Bonsu.

Below: L-r: Lifetime Brands’ Claire Budgen, Paul Felix, QVC, Mike Cook of Choice Marketing and Lifetime’s Laura Cartner.

Above: The Ambiente team – Ben Broadhead, Erdman Kilian and Thomas Kastl.

Below: The Clean & Tidy Home Show founder, Penny Moyses gets an Airtender cocktail from Rui Santos.

BEST SUPERMARKET RETAILER

CRITERIA: This award recognises a supermarket’s efforts for its house and home offer in store and/or online.

Sainsbury’s

Initial Reaction: “We were totally blown away to be announced as this year’s winner of the Best Supermarket Retailer.

“I am personally so proud to be part of such an agile, dynamic and passionate team at Sainsbury’s and it was an absolute honour to accept this award on behalf of all our home colleagues. This award is testament to all the hard work that goes into the product ranges from our suppliers, so many head office teams, through to our store colleagues, all doing the right thing for our customers.

“We couldn’t be more delighted and it certainly was a night to remember.”

Victoria Owen, senior cookshop buyer, Sainsbury’s

BEST GARDEN

CENTRE RETAILER

CRITERIA: This award recognises garden centre retailers – both independent and multiple - who have paid particular attention to the house and home sector.

Garden & Home

Initial Reaction: “What an incredible achievement. We are delighted to have been presented with this award, which recognises our achievement in what is an increasingly competitive market. Our colleagues work extremely hard to ensure we deliver the Bents’ difference at all times and this award is a fantastic way to thank them for all they do.”

Emma Kelly, commercial director, Bents Garden & Home

Above: Sainsbury’s senior cookshop buyer, Victoria Owen and Christina Thornton, assistant buyer took to the stage to collect the award from Jenny Stewart.

Far right: Commercial director for Bents Garden & Home, Emma Kelly was delighted to accept the award.

Below: Horwood Housewares managing director, Rob Jones, opened the golden envelope.

Left: Ultimate Products commercial director, Jenny Stewart revealed the evening’s ﬁrst winner.

EXCELLENCE IN ONLINE RETAILING

CRITERIA: Nominees had to be retailers of housewares which use the internet as a highly signiﬁcant route to consumers.

Initial Reaction: “We feel so honoured to have won this award, especially up against so many big names, the competition was deﬁnitely not easy. The entire team at Sous Chef constantly works really hard to ensure the shopping experience is a joy for all our customers. From website, to product range and customer service. It feels fantastic to have all our hard work acknowledged by the industry. Thank you.”

Lohse, buyer, Sous Chef

EXCELLENCE IN

RETAIL TRAINING

CRITERIA: This award is for a retailer’s approach to training for its team. This can be an on-going training programme or speciﬁc training initiative that has been instigated (or been particularly signiﬁcant) in the last year.

Winner

John Lewis

Initial Reaction: "We are all absolutely thrilled to have won two Excellence in Housewares Awards, one for retail training and one for best department store. The competition is always tough with so many great brands and retailers being nominated, so to come away with any award feels like a real achievement."

Lizzie Batchelar, buyer at John Lewis

Right: Chris Gee, managing director of Peugeot UK revealed the winner of the Excellence in Online Retailing category.

Left: Buyer, Kristin Lohse and the Sous Chef team joined Chris on stage to collect their trophy.

Far right: Simon presented the trophy to Lisa Rutherford, John Lewis’ category lead for cookshop.

Below: .The winner was revealed by Simon Oliver, RKW’s commercial director.

Sous Chef

Kristin

DISPLAY – INDEPENDENT

CRITERIA: Nominees had to be independent retailers for their window and/or in-store displays which are either speciﬁc to one product range or of a more generic nature which demonstrate originality and maximise visual impact.

Initial Reaction: “We are really thrilled to win Excellence in Retail Display as this award has a special place in our hearts. This is only possible with the fantastic effort the team puts in with Alison being the star designer.”

Carter, director, Potters Cookshop

EXCELLENCE IN RETAIL DISPLAY - MULTIPLE OR DEPARTMENT STORE

CRITERIA: Nominees had to be multiple retailers, department store chains or branches, or independent department stores for their window and/or in-store displays which are either speciﬁc to one product range or of a more generic nature which demonstrate originality and maximise visual impact.

Initial Reaction: “I had the pleasure in attending the Excellence in Housewares Awards on behalf of Blue Diamond and was delighted to win the award for Excellence in Retail Display - Multiple or Department Store category. This award recognises the achievements of our store teams who work tirelessly to create a clear and enticing display to enhance our retail environment for our customers in homewares.”

Ali Buchan, category manager for homeware

Tom

Left: Potters Cookshop’s director, Tom Carter and visual merchandiser, Alison Hobbs were thrilled to collect their award.

Below right: The golden envelope was opened by Claire Whalley-Livesey, managing director for Meyer Group.

Blue Diamond

Above: Accepting the award from Chris was Blue Diamond’s category manager for homeware, Ali Buchan.

Left: Managing director of DKB Toys and Distribution, Chris Lomeyer, revealed the winner.

EXCELLENCE IN RETAILER INITIATIVE

CRITERIA: This award is for a single recent initiative to promote the sale of housewares products and/or raise the proﬁle of the retailer and foster customer loyalty (from any housewares retailer, whether independent or multiple).

Winner

Robert Dyas

Initial Reaction: “The Robert Dyas team and I are delighted to have won the award for Excellence in Retailer Initiative. We couldn’t have done it without the talent of our fantastic team and, ultimately, our great product range which can help save our customers money.”

Donna Jackson, marketing manager for social media and creative, Robert Dyas

RETAIL EMPLOYEE

OF THE YEAR

CRITERIA: Nomination of retail employees who make a difference with their enthusiastic, attentive and knowledgeable service, their passion, and dedication to their retail business.

Jason Somers

Initial Reaction: “Winning the Retail Employee of the Year award is an absolute honour. I feel very lucky to work within the housewares industry with its vibrant suppliers and fellow retailers. Which makes it incredibly rewarding to be recognised for a job I absolutely love. I’m truly grateful for this recognition.”

Jason Somers, general manager, Divertimenti

manager for social media and creative at Robert Dyas was delighted to accept the award on stage.

Right: Revealing the winner was head of Gastroback UK, Marcus Lux.

Right: Jason Somers, general manager, Divertimenti, was thrilled to accept the trophy. Left: Senior national accounts manager for Smeg, Matt Balm, joined the stage to reveal the winner.

BEST DEPARTMENT STORE– INDEPENDENT

CRITERIA: Nominees had to be individual independent department stores or branches of a small group of up to three stores, showing excellence in areas across the retail spectrum, including: product range, product knowledge, staff training, customer care, marketing and promotion, display and (if relevant) multi-channel retailing.

BEST DEPARTMENT STORE

– MULTIPLE OR GROUP

CRITERIA: Nominees had to be speciﬁc branches of a department store chain or group of above three stores showing excellence in areas across the retail spectrum, including: product range, product knowledge, staff training, customer care, marketing and promotion, display and (if relevant) multi-channel retailing.

Right: Lisa Rutherford, category lead for cookshop at John Lewis was joined by the John Lewis team on stage.

Left: Previous winners of the Outstanding Achievement Award, Richard and Anthony Joseph from Joseph Joseph, were on hand to reveal the winner.

Above: Alison Farrell collected the award on behalf of Arnotts.

Lewis

Lizzie Batchelar, buyer at John Lewis

Est.1872

Above: Opening the golden envelope was Beldray brand director, Tracy Carrol.

MULTIPLE OR SMALL GROUP

RETAILER OF THE YEAR

CRITERIA: Nominees had to be specialist or non-specialist retailers of housewares with four stores or more (excluding department stores, garden centres and supermarkets), showing excellence in areas across the retail spectrum.

Winner

Initial Reaction: “Thank you Excellence in Housewares Awards for arranging a fantastic event. We are delighted to have won the multiple retailer of the year award and would like to thank all our supply partners for continually supporting us. I would also like to say thank you and well done to the amazing team at Dunelm for their hard work, dedication and support... this is for you team.”

John Tranter, category director, Dunelm

INDEPENDENT COOKSHOP

OF THE YEAR

CRITERIA: Nominees had to be independent bricks and mortar retailers with up to three stores, whose main business is that of a cookware shop, showing excellence in areas across the retail spectrum.

The Kitchen Range

Initial Reaction: “We were up against some fantastic independents from around the UK, so we were absolutely thrilled to be crowned the winners of this award. “All our team work so hard all year round to make this happen and it’s great to be recognised.”

Andrew Johnston, managing director, The Kitchen Range

Left: Announcing the winner of the category was George Mann, national sales manager, UK and Ireland for Le Creuset.

Right: Joining George on stage to accept the award was Andrew Johnston, owner of The Kitchen Range in Market Harborough.

Right: Tom Hamer, managing director, UK and Ireland for DK Household Brands revealed the winner.

Left: John Tranter, category director for Dunelm and his team were delighted to accept the trophy.

EXCELLENCE IN COOKWARE

CRITERIA: All cookware and bakeware products in metals, glass, ceramic, silicone, plastic or any other material, which were launched at UK retail or modiﬁed between June 2023 and June 2024.

2024 Winner

Winner

Space FROM

Initial Reaction: “On behalf of the Joseph Joseph team, we’re thrilled to have won two prestigious awards at this year’s event.

“Five years in the making, our ﬁrst cookware range embodies the Joseph Joseph DNA of intelligent design. It was created for cooks, yet made for storage and we are delighted to have won the Excellence in Cookware award so soon after launch.”

Marie Kenyon, retail marketing manager

Above: Bhavika Pattni, head of growth at Hyve, organisers of Source Home & Gift revealed the ﬁrst of the product category winners.

JOSEPH JOSEPH

SPONSORED

Right: Joseph Joseph duo, Richard and Anthony Joseph joined the stage to collect their award.

TOP TOOL OR GADGET AWARD

CRITERIA: Any gadget, tool, utensil or range of the same - whether practical, aesthetic or fun (includes mills), which were launched at UK retail or modiﬁed between June 2023 and June 2024.

2024 Winner

Initial Reaction: “PROUD. Just six years ago we started developing this great company, brand and product line. It’s truly a great honour and even a bit unbelievable to already be compared with the best housewares brands in the world. When I asked Rob Willis if he thinks we had any chance of winning he said: “come on let’s be realistic, no”. Say what?! But we forgive him now, haha. Love you Rob. Special thanks to: Katie Roberts-Mason, Jo Pilcher, Rob Willis, Carly Willis and Mark Grayson. Congratulations once again on a fantastic event.” Dalibor Borjanin, Founder & CEO, Airtender

Winner

Right: PR Direct’s managing director, Sarah Selzer was on hand to open the golden envelope.

Wine Aerator FROM AIRTENDER

Above: Airtender’s ceo, Dalibor Borjanin was thrilled to accept the trophy.

“We are over the moon to have won the award for Excellence in Home Organisation for our Beldray SpotBuster Pro. At Beldray, we really understand how busy life can get and that’s why we focus on developing products that help those everyday tasks to feel less of a chore.

“All Beldray products aim to make looking after a home quicker and easier; the SpotBuster Pro is a great example of where we have identiﬁed a problem and developed a product to swiftly help consumers to overcome it. No more sofa spills and carpet marks,

Jenny Stewart, commercial director at Beldray SPONSORED

Ranges that help clean and organise the home. Includes ﬂoor care, laundry and cleaning products and tools including electrical, home storage across all domestic areas and organisational ranges such as dish racks,

Above: Jenny Stewart, commercial director at Ultimate Products was joined by the Beldray team to collect the award.

PLUGGED IN AWARD

CRITERIA: All products which have an electrical plug and whose use is concerned with the processing of food/drink or the carrying out of household tasks, and were launched or modiﬁed between June 2023 and June 2024.

2024 Winner

Initial Reaction: “We always have a fantastic time at the Excellence in Housewares Awards and it is even better to win. We are so pleased to win the Plugged In award with our product, the Tower Air Wave Pro 2-in-1 Air Fryer and Microwave. We strive to be a business that fosters innovation and it means a lot to have this recognised. We congratulate the other nominees and winners and always love the opportunity to see the best in industry celebrated.”

Simon Oliver, commercial director, RKW

Tower AirWave Pro 2-in-1 FROM RKW

Left: Last year’s Outstanding Achievement award winner and director for sales at Exclusively, Seema Grantham, joined the stage to announce the winner.

Above: It was a thumbs up from RKW founder and managing director, Rob Sutton and team.

TOP OF THE TABLE AWARD

CRITERIA: All tableware, glassware, tabletop accessories, serveware and tabletop textile products, which were launched at UK retail or modiﬁed between June 2023 and June 2024.

2024 Winner

Initial Reaction: “What a feeling it was for all of us at Lifetime for Mikasa x Tipperleyhill to be crowned Top of the Table at the Oscars of the housewares industry.

“Competition was ﬁerce and as always the evening highlighted the innovation and dedication within our fantastic industry; it's an unbeatable feeling to be part of it. We knew when we partnered with the fabulous Tipperleyhill artists that we were onto something special. Together we've created something completely unique to Mikasa and the runaway success of the range speaks for itself. Being able to share the win across the business has been a great moment to reﬂect.”

Claire Budgen, commercial and marketing director, Lifetime Brands

Winner

Left: Thomas Kastl, director for dining, Ambiente ﬂew in from Frankfurt to announce the winner.

Mikasa x Tipperleyhill FROM LIFETIME BRANDS

Right: Laura Cartner, senior buyer at Lifetime Brands joined the stage to collect the trophy.

CUTTING EDGE AWARD

2024 Winner

Initial Reaction: “Naturally we are delighted to have won this award in a category with such strong ﬁnalists. It is testament to Kuhn Rikon’s policy of designing and developing products that function brilliantly at a price accessible to all.”

Above: Kuhn Rikon’s managing director, Edward Margetts and business development manager, Paul Marchant were delighted to receive the award.

Paul Marchant, business development manager, Kuhn Rikon

Winner Kitchen Shears FROM KUHN RIKON

CRITERIA: All knives, scissors, cutting equipment, allied storage items, chopping boards and sharpeners, which were launched at UK retail or modiﬁed between June 2023 and June 2024.

Left: Bhavika Pattni, head of growth at Hyve, organisers of Spring Fair & Autumn Fair returned to the stage to present the Cutting Edge trophy.

The Perfect Christmas Gift

Celebrating 70 years of innovative blending with Bamix: from first immersion blenders to today’s versatile, reliable kitchen companions. Timeless quality, unmatched performance.

A Bamix is the perfect Christmas gift, blending practicality and luxury. Its versatility suits all culinary needs, ensuring lasting use. Gifting a Bamix shows appreciation for quality and attention to detail. It’s a timeless, thoughtful present for anyone special.

DeLuxe

Superbox

Swissline

EXCELLENCE IN HOMEWARES

CRITERIA: Kitchenware products not covered in other categories that assist in preparation of food and drink, such as storage containers, scales, measuring equipment and household products that assist in cleaning, laundry, utility storage and waste disposal, which were launched at UK retail or modiﬁed between June 2023 and June 2024.

2024 Winner

Winner

Stanley Quencher FROM BURTON MCCALL

the award for

Initial Reaction: “On behalf of the entire Burton McCall team, I am incredibly honoured to receive this prestigious award for Excellence in Homewares. This achievement would not have been possible without the support of our amazing retailers and the team at Stanley, who created the quencher and a franchise of amazing products to help us keep hydrated in every situation.

“The quencher quickly became a phenomenon through a combination of design, trendy aesthetics, viral social media buzz and a commitment to create a more sustainable, less disposable life and world.

“Here’s to pushing boundaries, breaking records and continuing to deliver and represent exceptional products and brands.” Mohamed Hajat, head of sales, Burton McCall

Above: Collecting

Excellence in Homewares, was Mohamed Hajat, head of sales for Burton McCall.

Right: Mark Chapman, UK office representative for the International Housewares Association announced the winner.

SPONSORED

THE LICENSING AWARD

CRITERIA: A speciﬁc product or range that is either officially licensed or celebrity endorsed which were launched at UK retail or modiﬁed between June 2023 and June 2024.

2024 Winner

Winner

Eleanor Bowmer collection FROM PURE TABLE TOP

Initial Reaction: “We are really proud of our partnership with Eleanor Bowmer. From the moment we had our ﬁrst meeting, we knew that it was a collaboration of dreams. So much work has gone into the Electric Coast collection, we wanted to bring Pure’s passion for quality and design to the offer and we think this really shows in the range. It has been such a fun range to develop and now that it has been recognised with the Licensing Award, it’s the cherry on the top.”

Raven Sprague, senior brand and sales manager, Pure Table Top

Above: Raven Sprague, senior brand and sales manager for Pure Table Top was joined by Eleanor Bowmer, director of Eleanor Bowmer on stage to celebrate.

Right: Pink Key Licensing founder, Richard Pink opened the golden envelope for The Licensing Award.

THE ICON AWARD

2024 Winner

Paris Salt & Pepper Mills FROM

Initial Reaction: “On behalf of Peugeot I was delighted to receive the icon award. The timing is perfect as Peugeot celebrates 150 years since the ﬁrst peppermill - this very year. Equally delighted to present Sous Chef with their award as sponsors of the Excellence In Online Retailing award. Another great evening with our industry celebrating together, thanks to our dynamic trade publication, the team at Progressive Housewares.” Chris Gee, managing director, Peugeot UK

Above: Peugeot’s managing director, Chris Gee and key account manager, Craig

Beesley were thrilled to receive the coveted Icon Award.

Left: Richard Walker, managing director at Eddingtons was straight back up on stage to present The Icon Award.

PEUGEOT

by material

handles with up to 50% wheat straw material replacing virgin plastic by nature

packaging components are made with recyclable materials only by function

selected items have ﬂexible silicone edges leaving no valuable food in the pot by quality

5 years guarantee because nothing is more sustainable than durability

THE ECO AWARD

CRITERIA: Products that cut down consumers' use of single-use plastic/waste and/or whose main features promote sustainable living which were launched at UK retail or modiﬁed between June 2023 and June 2024.

2024 Winner

Initial Reaction: "We are delighted to win The Eco Award for our range of utensils from our Zyliss brand. We are very happy that Zyliss is being recognised for its outstanding products and commitment to sustainability."

Heidi Thomas, head of marketing, DK Household Brands

Winner

Zyliss Utensils FROM DK HOUSEHOLD BRANDS

Above: Tom Hamer, managing director UK & Ireland, DK Household Brands was joined by his team to collect the award on stage.

Below: Products of Change’s editor and content manager, Kathryn Brand.

THE INNOVATION AWARD

2024 Winner

Initial Reaction: “Absolutely, delighted to receive the Excellence in Housewares Award for Innovation for our Fissler Phi Cookware. We were honoured to be nominated across ﬁve categories, but this one was super special, recognising real foresight and manufacturing excellence of Fissler in the resulting product range.

“This years’ event was brilliant and special congratulations should also go to Theo Paphitis for his Lifetime Achievement Award and his contribution to the industry.”

Richard Walker, managing director, Eddingtons

Winner

Fissler Phi FROM EDDINGTONS

Top left: The Innovation Award winner was revealed by Nivtar ceo and founder, Nishant Gupta.

Top: Richard Walker, managing director at Eddingtons joined the stage to receive the award.

THE SUPPLIER AWARDS

Criteria: To arrive at the ﬁnalists (and winners) for these three awards, PH conducted a comprehensive poll of housewares retailers asking them to state which housewares suppliers they feel deserve recognition when it comes to marketing, product development and service.

EXCELLENCE IN PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Criteria: A supplier that has achieved excellence in innovation and product development over the past year.

Initial Reaction: “Synonymous with clever design and masterful functionality, we pride ourselves on disrupting the status quo with problem-solving household innovations, so winning the Excellence in Product Development award was icing on the cake.

“Most importantly, we’d like to congratulate all other participants and winners for 2024 and thank the EIH awards judges for their kind commendations.”

Marie Kenyon, retail marketing manager, Joseph Joseph

Winner

EXCELLENCE IN MARKETING

Criteria: A supplier that has demonstrated excellence in marketing over the past year, resulting in increased sales and/or brand awareness. This can be for a speciﬁc campaign or for on-going strategies over the last year, and can include advertising in all its forms, public relations activities, point of sale and in-store promotional material.

EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE

Initial Reaction: “We at Le Creuset are thrilled to have been recognised with the Excellence in Marketing award. A huge thank you to everyone who voted for us. Our goal is to continuously create exciting and engaging campaigns throughout the year, supporting our retailers both in-store and online. A special thanks to all our retailers, not only for the nomination but for bringing our marketing vision to life.”

George Mann, national sales manager, Le Creuset

Criteria: A supplier that has excelled itself in providing a great service to the housewares retailer over the past year.

Initial Reaction: “Everyone at Le Creuset is thrilled to have been nominated and received this award for the second year running. It takes the dedication of every individual across our organisation to deliver best-in-class service and we strive to do just that, making day-to-day interactions as seamless as possible for our customers. We promise to continue working hard to uphold this standard and we are incredibly grateful for the recognition. Thank you.”

George Mann, national sales manager, Le Creuset

Winner Winner

Left: Joseph Joseph’s ceo Richard Joseph and coo Anthony Joseph returned to the stage to collect their second trophy.

Left: Le Creuset’s national sales manager, George Mann was thrilled to receive the Excellence in Marketing Award.

Left: George Mann, Le Creuset’s national sales manager, returned to the stage to collect the company’s second award of the evening.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

CRITERIA: This very special award is presented to an individual who has contributed greatly to the UK housewares industry. Nominations are invited from across the industry.

SPONSORED BY

2024 Winner

Winner

Theo Paphitis, Robert Dyas

Initial Reaction: “These awards reinforce what a fabulous industry housewares is, which was evident from the breadth of brands attending and the nominees in all categories.

“I am incredibly touched by the lovely words and tribute and, of course, the award presented on the night. Congratulations to all of the worthy winners.”

Theo Paphitis, retail entrepreneur and owner of Robert Dyas, Ryman, Boux Avenue

The award presentation followed this speech by Max Publishing’s coo and joint owner, Rob Willis

“Sure, there are giants and he is one of them. But this is a retailer who ﬁghts for ALL shopkeepers, as he’d gently refer to them – including himself. He loves independents and will gladly offer any support he can, even if you’re two doors up from him. He’d rather everyone got something, than he got everything.

“He has used his position to slam the government for its “disappointing” attitude toward the retail industry’s signiﬁcance and publicly called them out for ‘kicking the can down the road’. He is public in his forthright view that retail contributes to local communities, local economies, and that retail stores – of all sizes – should get a fair deal on business rates as well as other help and support for what they do.

“In fact, when interviewed earlier this year, he told us: If I had a superpower for one day, I’d go back to the 1500s and abolish this not ﬁt for purpose taxation system. He is on record stating that UK retailers are being taken advantage of, and he won’t back down until they listen.

“He also isn’t afraid to say it how it is against companies avoiding UK tax by shipping directly from China. He’s ﬁghting for all of you in this audience, whatever side you’re on – he wants to keep business here, in the UK, fairly priced and with a chance of good fortune. You can’t ask for more than that.

“On a positive note, he also said in the same interview: Don’t stop dreaming. Dreaming is an integral ingredient for success because it can spark that ﬁre in your belly, giving you a sense of purpose and direction.

“As a retailer and a product man, he sees both sides of that dream.

“With his own purpose and direction, he bought Robert Dyas in 2012 and has made it a stalwart of housewares retailing. As an industry, we should thank him for using his success as a platform to speak for all of us, not just for himself – it’s a true credit.

“As another of his nominees said: He truly deserves to be acknowledged for his passion and love for the retail sector.

“I confess, and will no doubt get a b******ing from him, I did get him here under the false pretences of a welcome speech this evening. But I was pushed very hard by my industry peers to ensure he got the recognition he deserves.

“The Excellence In Housewares, Outstanding Achievement Award winner for 2024, is the one and only Mr Theo Paphitis, owner of Robert Dyas.”

Right: Lifetime Brands’ commercial and marketing director, Claire Budgen, presented the ﬁnal award of the evening.

Below: Theo Paphitis, winner of the Excellence in Housewares Awards 2024 Outstanding Achievement Award.

SOMETIMES MORE

IS MORE

MIKASA – TABLETOP & GIFTING ALL WRAPPED UP

In the wake of the relaunch last year, Lifetime has continued to breathe newness into the Mikasa brand across both dine and gift categories. The offering is both comprehensive and one of a kind. Each of the ranges is unique with stand-out designs and the team continues to develop in this way as the market demands it.

Claire Budgen, commercial and marketing director explains: “When it comes to tableware, independent retailers are able to offer a treasure trove experience that provides consumers with that must-have ‘found it’ feeling.

“Shopping tableware is like shopping homewares – to many consumers it’s an experience to be indulged. Influenced by social media and the

With the golden quarter in full focus, Lifetime's commercial and marketing director Claire Budgen talks us through the brands that mean business. From Mikasa tabletop to KitchenAid prep and the larger than life S'well Tumbler XL, Lifetime offers everything needed and more for peak season and beyond.

The

desire for stunning tablescapes, consumers want more than just off the shelf product. They want the complete journey – inspiration, unique pieces and the whole story from cutlery, to ceramics, to textiles. The potential this offers is huge, and we’ve made sure that Mikasa plays into this perfectly.”

Mikasa tableware, cutlery, glassware and textiles mix and match to create bespoke tablescapes. From the art deco inspired Luxe Deco collection, to cottage-core inspired Cranborne, the brand offers something for all tastes, carrying the strap

Above: Ranges across the Mikasa brand can be mixed and matched to create bespoke tablescapes.

Inset:

new Mikasa x V&A Alice in Wonderland collection showcases the illustrations inspired by Sir John Tenniel’s artwork.

S'WELL - THE ORIGINAL HYDRATION BRAND

“It was a sip of warm water that inspired S’well’s founder over a decade ago – and so began one of the fastest growing global brands. Now S’well products are sold in more than 75 countries worldwide” says Claire.

On the surface S’well is simply hydration, but there’s a reason celebrities such as Kim Kardashian have been snapped carrying a S’well bottle. While there have been arguably hundreds of iterations of hydration bottles since the launch of S’well, its brand personality can’t be replicated.

“We continually innovate and evolve the S’well brand and range,” Claire explains.

“Everything we make has a ‘reason for being’, which is backed up by strong sell-through for our partners.”

Most recently Lifetime Brands launched the Tumbler XL, with a triple-layered, vacuuminsulated construction, designed to keep drinks cold for 50 hours, hot for 10 hours and ice cold for up to four days. Plus it’s made from 91% recycled food grade 18/8 stainless steel, with a condensation-free exterior that won't sweat in hands or on tabletops.

“More than just a means to quench thirst; these larger than life hydration bottles are a fashion statement, a personal accessory, and a reflection of individual style, and they’re at the top of every consumer wish list,” says Claire.

The launch comes complete with a retail solution in the form of a S’well Tumbler XL shaped FSDU – for brand impact that can’t be beaten in-store.

There are always new innovations at the ready and the spring summer launch will be no different with a new designer collaboration the team is particularly excited about.

line ‘style your Mikasa your way’.

Claire says: “The complete offering creates compelling storytelling at point of sale that captures the imagination of the consumer and ultimately converts into sales.”

Staying in is the new going out, so every kitchen needs beautiful dinnerware – it’s easy to see why gifting in tableware is such an important focus. Lifetime Brands continues to support this with a steady stream of launches within the Mikasa brand.

The company has continued its partnership with the V&A museum, collaborating on a new Alice in Wonderland tableware collection, which has just launched in perfect time for autumn winter gifting season. Claire tells us: “The new collection showcases the intricate illustrations inspired by Sir John Tenniel’s renowned Alice in Wonderland artwork, plus we’ve added a touch of modern flair with on-trend pastel colours and the V&A’s signature floral designs.

MASTERCLASS – A LEGEND IN THE BAKING

The MasterClass bakeware brand has earned the trust of retailers and consumers alike. Claire comments: “Our 1mm thick carbon steel bakeware is one-of-a-kind. It will never bend or warp for bakeware that lasts a lifetime. Put simply, it can’t be beaten.”

Lifetime Brands has ensured that with MasterClass, consumers have a bakeware brand that does it all. Consumer feedback and reviews confirm this. It’s all underpinned by a lifetime guarantee and one phrase – buy once, buy smart. Claire furthers: “It’s in the DNA of everything we do. It’s why MasterClass has become the key go-to bakeware brand, plus we offer an amazingly comprehensive range of traditional and innovative items, catering to diverse consumer preferences, along with baking tools and gadgets, so customers can purchase everything baking related from one brand.”

KITCHENAID – A BRAND THAT NEEDS NO INTRODUCTION

Brands that get consumers through the door are what matters. KitchenAid is one of the most recognised brands globally and products across Lifetime’s KitchenAid tools and gadgets range are some of the most highly-rated kitchenware products sold today. Claire says: “We will be celebrating 25 years of KitchenAid tools and gadgets in 2025 and our new launches are something special to mark the celebration. All will be unveiled in the new year, so watch this space.”

“The packaging in this collection forms an integral part of its giftability too, with cut out intricate details within the giftbox for a fantastic unboxing experience.”

Similarly Lifetime Brands has extended its gifting collaboration with UK-based artists, Tipperleyhill, to include key tableware pieces such as side plates, cups and saucers, each of which feature Tipperleyhill’s much loved quirky animal illustrations.

“And to wrap it all up, every Mikasa range is complete with beautiful gift box packaging that’s both recyclable and drop ship ready.” Claire explains. “We are the only drop ship ready tableware brand.

SUPPORTING YOU

“We are committed to supporting our trade customers with inspiration, product choice and serviceability. Working as part of a global organisation gives our partners the reassurance that we will continue to deliver cutting edge products at exactly the right time.

“We can promise a constant stream of new product ideas and launches, marketing support, reliable stock levels, rigorous quality control and exceptional customer service. It’s simply what we do.”

Inset: The 1mm thick carbon steel bakeware from MasterClass will never bend or warp.

Inset: The S’well Tumbler XL is a fashion statement, a personal accessory and a reflection of individual style.

Inset: Lifetime will celebrate 25 years of KitchenAid tools and gadgets in 2025

ABOVE

A CUT

One of the key tools of any kitchen, home or professional, knives make up an important part of the housewares landscape. While consumer trends perhaps don’t change a great deal from year to year in this sector, innovation is ever-present. PH finds out about the latest launches and what drives sales.

The continuing trend during the costof-living crisis is one towards value for money. Consumers are looking to invest in products which last and provide true value. This consideration is particularly prominent in knives, as finding durable knives that remain sharp is key.

Michael Robbins, marketing manager at ZWILLING, explains: “Consumers are ever more focused on

value for money; that doesn’t mean cheap, it’s much more about quality and something that will perform well and will last, along with the peace of mind of a strong manufacturerbacked warranty.

“This combination really helps to reassure the consumer when they’re investing in new kitchen equipment and is something that ZWILLING provides right across our family of brands.”

Katie Cryer, Robert Welch national account manager – UK trade retail, furthers:

“Customers need to know they are buying a knife made of the best German steel with a long-lasting edge retention, that stays sharper for longer.

It’s all about the quality and making a purchase to last a lifetime.

“Robert Welch knives are in the top 1% of kitchen knives in the world tested for edge retention based on an ISO 8442-5 test. Customers also expect a lifetime guarantee, and rightly so – this is applied to every Robert Welch knife.”

Education is vital for consumers when it comes to

Inset: The Global brand is to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2025, with the launch of specially selected sets, each of which include the newly designed 15cm Kiritsuke Knife.

Below right: The new Tormek T-1 Morakniv 1891 comes fully assembled with a solid birch handle in the unmistakable red from the Morakniv Classic 1891 series.

Inset: On the back of the new Professional knife range launch last year, Robert Welch is bringing out three different knife sets in the collection in time for Christmas.

Inset: ZWILLING’s new SharpBlock 2 is a modernisation of its self sharpening knife blocks, which hone the cutting angle of straight edge knives each time they’re withdrawn from and returned to, the block.

WÜSTHOF has recently introduced

making the right purchase. Carl Branigan, country head, UK & Ireland, WÜSTHOF, says: “It’s about selecting the right knife for the job. Whether that be an all-rounder, such as a chef’s knife, or something more specialist such as a boning knife. The consumers should consider the performance of that knife both in the short-term and in the years to come. Will it still be as strong, robust, reliable and consistent in what I need it to do as it is on day one, long into the future?

“For retailers, aligning the choice consumers have, across the category, with a ‘good, better, best’ strategy is key. Then through marketing materials and product knowledge, making sure the consumer is informed, enabling them to make the most suitable purchase. One other consideration should be depth of range. Of course, the core knife types should be available, but there remains a huge opportunity to showcase more specialist knives.”

Joseph Joseph identifies a range of factors that consumers are looking for. Richard

Consumer groups

Joseph, co-founder and ceo, outlines: “The key factors are ergonomic design, sharpness and durability. Consumers are looking for knives that feel comfortable, offer precision and can withstand regular use. Safety features are also a growing concern.”

Hugo Öhman, digital marketing and PR, Tormek, agrees: “Budget, performance and design – not necessarily in that order. Tormek has over 50 years expertise in tool sharpening for woodworkers and over 35 years in knife sharpening for commercial kitchens. Creating the first premium kitchen knife sharpener for the home – at an accessible cost – was a natural progression for us.”

Ben Grunwerg, managing director of Grunwerg, furthers: “Consumers have always liked a mix of price, design, function and quality. Given the rise of ecommerce, consumers are looking to use products that they can build an emotional connection with, certainly with a tool as intimate to cooking as a knife.”

While the functional considerations are arguably the most important, innovation has led to designs to target all ages. Simon Rees, head of sales UK at Fackelmann, explains: “The Samura product development team

Amefa breaks down consumers to discover what each ‘group’ is looking for. Zora Rudolph, national account manager explains: “When identifying key purchasing factors for consumers, we try to understand their needs by grouping them into ‘everyday’, ‘enthusiast’ and ‘expert’.

“Everyday users look for value for money and are driven by a balance of design and affordability, whereas enthusiast users look towards purpose, versatility and quality, ensuring that the knives selected will deliver the users aspirations in the kitchen.

“Expert users focus more on blade material, performance and construction, while relying on brand reputation to ensure they are purchasing the best quality product available for their intended use.”

Richard Sharp, head of marketing at Horwood, sees a similar audience distinction between brands: “We see different factors driving purchase from our two brands. For Judge, it’s very much about finding a tool to do the job at a sensible price point. For Stellar, it’s more considered – consumers want to buy into a range which gives them the option of extending and growing their collection over time, so having a comprehensive offering is important.”

blends over 30 years expertise with the fresh perspectives of Gen Z innovators. This dynamic mix leads to extraordinary brainstorming sessions, yielding not only top-quality knives, but also designs that captivate and appeal across all generations.” The principles are similar at WÜSTHOF. Carl outlines: “Despite being founded over 200 years ago, WÜSTHOF has innovation at its core. Whether that be proprietary

Below:

the Classic Colour series in six colours – Velvet Oyster, Coral Peach, Purple Yam, Tasty Sumac, Pink Himalayan Salt and brand new Wild Blueberry – pictured.

Inset: Joseph Joseph’s Elevate Steel Knives Bamboo Five-Piece set follows the company’s aim to create knives that are not only high-performance, but also look good on a kitchen counter.

INTRODUCING THE LIMITED-EDITION 40TH ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION:

To celebrate the 40th anniversary milestone, Global Knives, in collaboration with Grunwerg, proudly announces the release of an exclusive limited-edition collection. Every knife crafted by Global carries with it a legacy of excellence, a promise of unmatched sharpness, balance, and design that has captured the hearts of millions.

GS-110 15cm Kiritsuke Knife

Traditionally, the Kiritsuke knife is the prized tool of Japan’s master chefs—a blade revered for its precision and the skill it demands. Global’s modern interpretation of this esteemed knife artfully combines tradition with innovation, featuring a subtly curved blade and reduced size that endows both versatility and enhanced precision.

GS-458110AN

3 Piece Knife Set

This set is a carefully curated selection of Global’s finest knives to create the perfect starter knife set, including the G-4 18cm Oriental Chef’s Knife, the GS-58 11cm Oriental Cook’s Knife, and the GS-110 15cm Kiritsuke Knife.

G-52AN7-A

7 Piece Knife Block Set

Housed in the brand’s iconic ‘ship shape’ block, this set showcases six of Global’s most popular and trusted knives; G-4 18cm Oriental Chef’s Knife, GS-110 15cm Kiritsuke Knife, GS-58 11cm Oriental Cook’s Knife, GS-38 9cm Paring Knife, G-97 20cm Bread Knife, and GS-55 12cm Fluted Oriental Santoku Knife. This collection is the ultimate tribute to Global’s craftsmanship and dedication to quality.

With limited quantities available, don’t miss your chance to be a part of history, and to own a piece of Global’s legacy.

No fads

Comfort is the current focus for Horwood. “We’re currently improving the handle design on one of our biggest ranges to ensure it’s as comfortable to use as it possibly can be,” explains Richard. “Continuous improvement is essential, but for us, innovation for the sake of it isn’t the objective – we try not to chase fads or gimmicks.”

Katie agrees: “Our Signature range has been in the marketplace since 2007 and the sales speak for themselves. The new Professional Knife range was launched last year and is a heavier steel than the Signature and does a lot of the chopping work for you.

“Robert Welch isn’t about fads and the latest trends. We design and perfect products to last forever.”

Inset: Horwood is currently refreshing the packaging and brand identity of all its core knife ranges making it secure and safe and reducing plastic.

Precision Edge Technology (PEtec), pioneering handle composition, or precision double-serrated blades, WÜSTHOF continues to align with the ever-changing expectations of chefs around the world.”

The R&D team innovates across ranges at ZWILLING. “Whether it’s our fully-forged knives made in Germany, or new Japanesemanufactured knives under our MIYABI brand from our facility in Seki, there is always something new coming to elevate a position, fill a gap or to simply renew or extend an assortment,” comments Michael.

Materials are important in innovation. Zora tells PH: “Being informed on the use of

Retail challenges

modern alloys and materials, as well as technological treatments and coatings to ensure superior edge retention and corrosion resistance is key for maintaining the level of performance expected from Richardson Sheffield.

“Continuous improvements in knife design help us to ensure that our knives are not only functional, but also comfortable and safe to use.”

Aesthetics are also important. “Design is also key for us,” says Richard. “Our knives are crafted to be not only high-performance, but also aesthetically appealing pieces that enhance the cooking experience and look good on the counter.”

Sustainability continues to be an area for development. “We follow trends and try and apply these to our own brands,” explains Ben. “We are constantly launching every year, new products that reflect drives for more environmentally friendly packaging and materials.”

When it comes to supporting retailers in the sales of knives, suppliers agree that training is of the utmost importance. Hugo explains: “Training is key. We strive to deliver the best materials and training – in person and online – to ensure our retail partners have the necessary skills to sell the range.”

Richard continues: “We believe in a strong partnership approach with retailers. We provide them with detailed product training so their staff can effectively highlight unique features and benefits of our knives to customers.”

“Recent changes within the legislative requirements of retailing knives have made it difficult for retailers to confidently and effectively merchandise and grow sales,” begins Zora. “Amefa has therefore developed a plastic free packaging solution that fully secures the knife’s blade, allowing the handle to be tested by the consumer, but designed in a way that prevents forceful removal, therefore ensuring compliance with safe retailing requirements.”

Richards furthers: “Obviously retail activation in the category is challenging so we’re looking to our re-packaging project to elevate our offering, improve communication of key features and benefits and give them standout appeal, even when locked in cases or behind store counters.”

Robert Welch is employing other methods. “We supply customers with ‘try me’ cards to display on the shop floor rather than the knives themselves,” says Katie. “We also offer knife display cabinets with a set of knives in each range to showcase the different types of knives available, along with all manner of POS to help the retailer boost sales.”

Simon concludes: “We provide comprehensive training programmes for retail staff to ensure they are well-informed about the unique features, benefits and selling points of Samura knives. This includes product knowledge sessions, why buys and hands-on demonstrations.”

In a sign of the times, much of Grunwerg’s retail support has moved online. Ben explains: “In the past we offered free display units, merchandise support and demonstrations.

“These days, we have internal photographers and videographers to make the best photos and videos for customer websites. We invest heavily in digital marketing to drive demand for our products through our customers’ websites and we have devoted a significant part of our advertising budget for 2025 to TikTok.”

Inset: Amefa’s new Richardson Sheffield Uta 5-Piece Knife Block combines a hammered blade and a Japanese inspired pakkawood handle.

Inset: Fackelmann will launch a mini version of the Samura hero product –the Mad Bull. The mini knife retains the versatility of the original while offering greater ease of use, especially suited to smaller hands.

ARE YOU A BRAND LOOKING TO GROW ONLINE?

Handle container freight and import into the UK

Make it personal with engraving

Real time reporting

Integrate with multiple marketplaces and platforms

Create excitement via TikTok

Expand your customer base

Ship quickly, cheaply and more sustainably

Seamless fulfilment for your ecommerce

Design unique bundles

Amazon store creation, brand registry and fulfilment solutions

BUILDING MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS

Rayware - Helen Parr

We have a long established relationship with Nishant and his team dating back to the origins of his family run business in retail. It’s been exciting to see the emergence of the Nivtar fulfilment arm of the business. They are a great team to collaborate with and we look forward to continuing our work with them on future projects.

Pure Table Top - Raven Sprague Nivtar have been instrumental in our ecommerce growth over the last 6 months, helping us spread brand awareness to new retailers and helping us expand our offer with current retailers. Sarah is fantastic at getting our product in front of the right people and is super proactive when we launch newness. We are excited about what the future holds for our partnership! Thank you Team Nivtar.

Discover new retailers like Next, Tesco, Debenhams

Dayes - Nick Squire

Nishant and his team have proven to be a wise partner choice. Small enough to care, look after our needs and ensure our products arrive on time, in good condition, at the right price. Large enough to manage and assist in our aggressive development plans, ensuring we don’t need to look elsewhere in the future. I have no hesitation in recommending Nishant and his excellent staff as a reliable, knowledgeable and dependable partner.

D2C, B2B and B2C solutions

Multichannel ecommerce fulfilment made simple

Amazon solutions through FBA, SFP and Vendor

1: Classic Black Chef’s Knife

The WÜSTHOF Classic Black Chef’s Knife, remains the ‘go to’ knife for professional chefs and food lovers the world over who want a true kitchen workhorse that delivers exceptional performance day after day. WÜSTHOF is one of the longest established premium knife brands in the world, producing highquality knives as well as products for the sharpening, storage and care of premium blades.

WÜSTHOF

T: 07795 364352

E: c.branigan@wuesthoft.de

W: www.wusthof.co.uk

2: Trebonn Artu Cutting Board With 20cm Bread Knife

More than just a kitchen accessory, Trebonn's Artu cutting board is a versatile and stylish tool for every meal - whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Its iconic design allows it to transition effortlessly from the kitchen to the table, adding both function and elegance to your dining experience. The bamboo surface is not only eco-friendly, but also highly durable, providing an ideal cutting surface for all types of food. The included 20cm bread knife features a serrated blade that cuts cleanly through crusts without squashing bread, or other baked goods.

Haus

T: 01782 572910

E: info@inthehaus.co.uk

W: www.hauswares.co.uk

3: AnySharp Evo Knife Sharpener.

For effortless and safe knife sharpening, look no further than the AnySharp Evo Knife Sharpener. Designed with innovative features, the Evo transforms dull blades into razor-sharp tools in seconds, making it a must-have for every kitchen. Its PowerGrip suction base ensures handsfree sharpening by securely attaching to any flat surface, preventing accidents. The enhanced suction cup offers an even stronger grip, while a handy tray catches metal filings, ensuring a clean workspace. Evo sharpens all types of knives, including hardened steel and serrated blades, and does so with minimal effort, thanks to its pre-set 20-degree angle.

AnySharp

T: 01382 800683

W: www.anysharp.com

4: Salter Two-stage Knife

Sharpener

Offering a quick and efficient solution to dull and blunt knives, the Salter Two-Stage Knife Sharpener restores even the bluntest blade edges to sharpness and precision. The two-step sharpening system, including the ceramic rod section, ensures blades are smooth and ready for any precise cutting and slicing tasks. Complete with a non-slip base to ensure stability when sharpening and an easy-grip handle to guarantee comfort during use.

Salter

W: www.salter.com

E: sales@upplc.com

5: Sabatier 20cm Provencao Chef's Knife

The 20cm Ideal Provencao Cook's Knife is a standout piece from the renowned Ideal collection by Lion Sabatier, a signature brand synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. Designed for versatility, this 20cm Cook's Knife effortlessly handles a variety of kitchen tasks - from mincing and chopping herbs to carving vegetablesmaking it indispensable for food preparation. The Ideal Provencao Cook's Knife reflects the brand’s heritage, combining precision and durability to meet the needs of both professional chefs and home cooks alike.

Haus

T: 01782 572910

W: www.hauswares.co.uk

E: info@inthehaus.co.uk

6: ‘La Table au Soleil’ (the table in the sun)

New for autumn/winter from French heritage knife and cutlery manufacturer Opinel is ‘La Table au Soleil’ (the table in the sun) – a range of knives and forks featuring olive-wood handles. The set is a new move for Opinel, combining forks from the Sylve olive-wood range and four matching olive-wood handled knives from the Bon Appétit range. Made in France, the new set comes boxed with a hanging tag and will be available from November 2024 from exclusive Opinel UK distributor Whitby & Co. Opinel

T: 01539 721032

W: www.whitbyandco.co.uk

E: sales@whitbydistribution.com

Products New Cutting Edge

Introducing La Table au Soleil!

1: The SAMURA Mad Bull

A bold reimagining of the Serbian chef's knife, the Mad Bull is a single-layered beast at heart, forged from the finest AUS-8 steel. A textural, hammered steel finish is also available. This exceptional steel boasts a remarkable 58-59 HRC hardness, ensuring it can cleave through even the most daunting ingredients. The fulltang construction ensures perfect balance, while the blade is meticulously honed using convex sharpening procedures. This combination transforms the Mad Bull into a veritable kitchen guillotine, a precision instrument for the most demanding chopping, slicing, and dicing tasks. Available in a range of G-10 handle options –black, black and blue, and black and red. Fackelmann Brands is the exclusive distributor and partner for Samura in the UK & Ireland.

Samura

T: 01922 743586

E: sales@fackelmann.co.uk

W: www.fackelmann.co.uk

2: Forest & Forge Knives

Representing the best of British knifemaking, Dexam’s range of Forest & Forge knives are crafted from top-quality steel and a range of native Yorkshire hardwoods. Made in Sheffield, England’s steel capital, these beautiful blades are forged from a high-chrome, high-carbon steel specially selected for optimum hardness and longevity. As a result, each knife sharpens beautifully and keeps its edge for longer, withstanding the rigours of professional and home kitchens alike. Made to perform and covered by a ten year guarantee, these hardworking blades will be reached for daily.

Dexam

T: 01730 811811

E: sales@dexam.co.uk

W: www.dexam.co.uk

3: The SAMURA 67 Damascus collection

The SAMURA 67 Damascus collection stuns with 67-layer Damascus steel blades, reminiscent of legendary swords. Precision-balanced for comfort and boasting 60-61 HRC hardness, these blades handle any task. The Micarta handles ensure durability and a confident grip, making every cut a masterpiece. Fackelmann Brands is the exclusive distributor and partner for Samura in the UK & Ireland.

Samura

T: 01922 743586

E: sales@fackelmann.co.uk

W: www.fackelmann.co.uk

4: Kuhn Rikon Shears

The new Kuhn Rikon range of shears cover almost any household cutting task. The design department in Switzerland went right back to square one to design four models that will be perfect for kitchen, crafting, general and DIY use. For the kitchen, all shears are excellent for cutting packaging and foodstuffs, stripping herbs and opening bottles and the Pro models will cut through chicken bones easily. In the home, the Pro shears will cut a range of things such as carpet tiles, and garden hose. Beautifully made and brilliantly packaged to enable prospective purchasers to feel the handles and the action of the shears. The safe and colourful packaging also provides lots of product detail. A counter top CDU is available to Kuhn Rikon

T: 01902 458410

E: sales@kuhnrikon.co.uk

W: www.kuhnrikon.co.uk

5: Salter 4-in-1 Knife Sharpener

The versatile Salter 4-in-1 Knife Sharpener restores knives and scissors effortlessly. Suitable for all kitchen blades, it revives, sharpens, and polishes using four sharpening elements. Featuring adjustable tungsten steel to revive blunt knives, a diamond rod to finely sharpen blades, a ceramic rod to polish dull edges, and a diamond sharpening slot to restore kitchen scissors; it helps maintain blade sharpness and precision. Compact in design, it can be stored away with ease after use.

Salter

E: sales@upplc.com

W: www.salter.com

3 Products New Cutting Edge

COMPANY PROFILE: GRUNWERG

2025 is set to be a big year for Grunwerg as the company celebrates its 80th year, and the Global brand marks its 40th anniversary. PH catches up with managing director, Ben Grunwerg to find out more.

YEAR A MILESTONE

Fin 1945, Grunwerg is a family business, which is what the team believes has been the key to its longevity as the company readies for its 80th anniversary.

Ben Grunwerg, managing director, explains: “Grunwerg is a family business, which gives us some special advantages; long term planning,

consistent decision making and loyalty towards our staff, which allows us to offer better service and stability over the long term.”

Over the 80 year period, highlights have been many, Ben outlines: “There have been so many pivotal moments over the years, each shaping Grunwerg’s direction and

1945:With a family tradition of working in the cutlery industry going back to the early 20th century, Otto Grunwerg was first drawn to Sheffield in 1939, though was called into the RAF soon after. Following the end of the war, Otto returns to Sheffield and begins to use his cutlery connections to trade from a premise on Cambridge Street and a factory on Carver Street.

1950:‘The Pinking Shear Company’ is established by Otto with the help of German engineer, Hans Sandkaulen. The company produces pinking shears and scissors in Sheffield, originally starting in a factory on Wellington Street later moving to a larger site on Malinda Street. In the same year, members of the Royal family visit the Grunwerg stand at the British Industries Fair.

1959:‘The Pinking Shear Company’ is sold and the Grunwergs again move offices to Leavygreave Road to trade in local and European cutlery.

1963:A desire to once again be involved in manufacturing leads to the purchase of George H Lawrence and associated companies on Nursery Street. The manufacturing of razor blades under the brand name of ‘Laurel’ commences, as well as the production of kitchen knives, sharpening steels, tailors shears, kitchen scissors and other cutlery items.

1966:Charles Grunwerg enters the business after graduating from Liverpool University.

1968:The early sixties saw the first contact with Japanese cutlery manufacturers which is followed up by Charles and younger brother David in a trip to Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan in 1968. The visit includes attendance at the Osaka World Trade Fair, to which several new products are purchased and released into the UK’s hesitant market.

1970:Manufacturing at the George H Lawrence factory ceases, creating a factory with additional space and capacity to begin importing more products to meet growing demand.

identity. Two standout moments include the closing of our Sheffield factory in the 1970s, and becoming the exclusive UK distributor for Global Knives in the 1990s. This move significantly raised Grunwerg’s profile, solidifying our position in the premium kitchenware sector and establishing a reputation for high-quality, sought-after products.

“The business has changed further in the past five years. More recently, in 2022, I took over from my father, David Grunwerg and we transitioned into a new building, out of Sheffield, and I am still proud of our roots in cutlery and stainless steel, which remain the focus of our products.”

Along with the highlights, of course, come difficulties. “The past year has presented challenges, we have felt the impact of interest rate rises and a slowing house market, both have which have affected consumer spending,” expands Ben.

1971:David Grunwerg officially enters the business after graduating from Cambridge and Essex Universities.

1980:In January, Otto passes away, leaving Charles and David managing the business. The Laurel works factory can no longer provide the storage and space required, so additional storage facilities are purchased on Bailey Lane.

1984:Four years of working in two separate premises was far from ideal, so the Grunwergs moved to Rockingham Street, into a building adjoining the Bailey Lane storage. The site features a warehouse and office space, creating 30,000 sq ft of storage.

1988:Grunwerg celebrates the “Golden Teaspoon Anniversary” to commemorate the sale of 50million teaspoons.

1990:Princes William and Harry become one of the hundreds of children whom own Grunwerg’s Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles children’s cutlery sets. The craze sweeps the nation, bringing in a great amount of publicity.

1993:The adjoining land and buildings to the Bailey Lane and Rockingham Street sites are purchased. An ambitious programme commences to build a new Grunwerg site with 75,000 sq foot of storage.

Inset: In 1963, the company purchases George H Lawrence and associated companies on Nursery Street.

Left: Ben Grunwerg, managing director.

Inset: L-r: Alex Beattie, financial director; Ben Grunwerg, managing director and Tom Basaford, sales director. Left: Founder of Grunwerg, Otto Grunwerg.

“Opportunities are always made during a recession though. These conditions have encouraged us to look inward and focus on improving the business internally, identifying ways to refine our processes, cut costs and enhance efficiency. We will go into 2025 in a strong position to grow, with a streamlined, stronger business model.”

Part of the strength of Grunwerg’s business model is the constant innovation, with new lines being launched regularly. Ben comments: “Keeping our product range fresh and relevant is a core focus at Grunwerg. Each year we release around 200 new SKUs to meet evolving consumer demands.

“We closely monitor trends, which we try and incorporate into our new ranges. Most of our new ranges have an ‘environmental’ aspect; ensuring sustainability and environmental responsibility is considered in production by removing the plastic from the packaging, furthermore, we are trying to use recycled materials where possible in new products.”

As part of monitoring the trends, the company has seen huge changes throughout the housewares industry over its 80 years in business. Ben furthers: “The nature of our business and the housewares industry has completely changed. Grunwerg started just after World War II, initially producing pinking shears to meet consumer demands during a time of scarcity.

“By the 1970s, under my father’s leadership, we transitioned from manufacturing to becoming an importer, broadening our product range to cater to an expanding market.

“As the internet and international

1995:Grunwerg celebrates its Golden Anniversary. The company sources products from 15 countries, supplying goods throughout the UK and into more than 20 different export markets. With Charles and David still leading the business, there is definite interest from the younger generations; Rachel, Simon, Daniel, Adam, Sarah, Benjamin and Anna.

2000:The Roux Scholarship is established by Albert Roux and sons – a culinary competition. The Roux family, whom actively use Global since the 1980’s, receive support and sponsorship from Grunwerg.

travel have made the world smaller, the company’s customer base and demographics have changed. Today, we connect with customers worldwide, focusing heavily on digital media to market and grow our brand awareness. The shift has enabled us to reach a wider audience.”

Having recently celebrated Global’s 40th anniversary with a successful event at Restaurant Sat Bains, as well as launching

new anniversary lines, Grunwerg is now exploring various ideas to commemorate the major milestone that is its 80th anniversary. Ben concludes: “We’re looking forward to revealing our plans in the new year of how we will pay tribute to our journey and all who’ve been part of it.”

2001:Grunwerg extends its office and meeting room facilities to include a showroom.

2005:Global knives celebrates its 20th birthday and 20 years of import and distribution by Grunwerg. Anniversary sets are produced, including one limited edition knife retailing at £20.

2006:Rachel Grunwerg, Charles’ eldest daughter joins the company following a degree at Nottingham University to look after the national account customer portfolio. In 2009 she extended her role to head up the marketing department.

2007:Two talented chefs choose to use Grunwerg products. Heston Blumenthal, the 3 Michelin star chef who owns The Fat Duck and The Waterside Inn begins his relationship with Tojiro.

David Everitt-Matthias, the 2 Michelin star chef of La Champignon Sauvage, begins to use Masahiro knives – a traditional Japanese knife range with a razor-sharp blade.

2009:Ben Grunwerg, David’s eldest child, joins the company following a degree at Warwick University. Ben starts his career in various sales, merchandising and buying roles before eventually taking over the buying role.

2010:Grunwerg celebrates 60 years in business with Charles and David still firmly in charge and Global knives celebrate its silver anniversary with a new website (www.globalknives.uk) and limited edition collectors’ knives.

2015:Global Knives celebrates its 30th anniversary with a collection of special edition knives, blocks and sets.

2018:Charles Grunwerg retires after a 52year career. Charles handled the company’s cutlery purchasing and oversaw the catering side of the business. Furthermore, Mino Tsuchida (Mr Global) celebrated his 80th birthday at Le Gavroche in London with friends, customers and international Global distributors.

2019:Having sold Silversteel House, Grunwerg moves business premises for the first time in 30 years to Silversteel Manor, offering the business more room for growth.

2021:Grunwerg scoops a double award at the annual Excellence in Housewares Awards. David won the Outstanding Achievement Award, while Adam outsmarted 300 people in the room winning in ‘higher or lower’.

2022:I Grunwerg unveiled its new look management team. Anna Grunwerg, Alex Beattie and Tom Basford joined Ben Grunwerg and Adam Grunwerg as directors and board members. David steps down as managing director of I

Grunwerg having led the business for over 50 years and overseen the development of the company from manufacturer to importer and distributor.

2025:Grunwerg will celebrate its 80th anniversary under the leadership of Ben. Furthermore, Global Knives will mark its 40th anniversary with the launch of exclusive limited-edition products.

Above: In 2019, Mino Tsuchida (Mr Global), opened the new Silversteel Manor premises. Top right: The Pinking Shear Company was established in 1950.

TIS THE SEASON…

As we move into the all-important fourth quarter, Progressive Housewares finds out what retailers’ expectations are for Christmas 2024 in the housewares sector, as well as what products are set to be hot this year.

, BUYER,

SOUS CHEF

ANDREW JOHNSTON MANAGING DIRECTOR, KITCHEN RANGE COOKSHOP, MARKET HARBOROUGH

PH ASKED THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS TO HOUSEWARES INDIES:

1. Now that the economic and political environment are a little more stable, are you expecting spending to return to more normal levels this Christmas?

2. What do you think the trends will be in housewares during the Christmas selling period? What are consumers looking for

“At Sous Chef we're hopeful that this Christmas will be successful. We have seen a trend of customers still wanting to spend and celebrate Christmas as the environment becomes a little more stable.

“We can see that our customers love a product that is made to last. Especially for the products that you use a lot every day in the kitchen. Big hitters for Christmas sales are always kitchen knives, frying pans and simple multi-use gadgets.”

“Here at The Kitchen Range Cookshop we are expecting our normal busy Christmas sales period this year.

“As usual Le Creuset items are many customers’ favourite gift choices, be it cast iron, 3-ply, TNS or Stoneware, all the ranges are popular. Also Robert Welch knives are always a popular purchase.

“Ulster Weavers textiles are a great present for anyone - aprons, oven gloves or tea towels. On trend are the Stanley water bottles and travel mugs in lots of fantastic colours.”

Andrew Johnston (centre) receiving Kitchen Range’s Independent Cookshop of the Year Award at the Excellence in Housewares Awards.

Kristin Lohse, Sous Chef

Christmas season. However, if it is a very cold winter, I think we might be impacted by the cost of heating for our customers and the removal of the Winter Fuel Allowance. Being in the far South West corner of the country, we will be less affected than those in the North.

LIZ LAWSON, MANAGING DIRECTOR, LAWSONS

“I expect Christmas sales will depend on the October budget. Certainly we have seen a decrease in spending and I would think that this is because most of our customers are older and they may have been affected by the withdrawal of the Winter Fuel Payment and they are concerned about what the budget will do to pensions and savings.

“However after such a dreary year, I would hope everyone will want to come together and celebrate this Christmas. We are still seeing an increase in everything tabletop from cutlery, to placemats and glasses; so people are definitely eating around a table again.

“We have seen an increase in electrical items such as air fryers (still selling well), slow cookers and stand mixers. Cooking with real food continues to be a theme, so a return to home baking, casseroles and even preserving - who doesn’t love a festive gin?”

PENNY LEGG, MANAGER AND BUYER, HOBBS COOKWARE SHOP

“What is a ‘normal’ level? We’ve had so much disruption over the last few years, it is difficult to predict or see a clear pattern. We were quite badly affected by the December election in 2019 and then Covid.

International uncertainty has increased lately and that is likely to impact customer confidence.

“This year has been very good for us so far and I’m optimistic for a good winter and

“Sustainability will continue to be important for our customers. People are asking about where things are made and are interested in the green credentials of the companies supplying us. Christmas is a time for indulgence and a bit of silliness and our customers usually look for stocking fillers that are useful as well as fun.

DIRECTOR, COOKMATE WORCESTER

“Cupcake/muffin tins have been slower, although special occasion cakes are still a must. We’re expecting Nordicware Bundt tins to be strong.

“High quality that lasts rather than throwaway and cheap. Vibrant colour has been making a comeback - there’s a definite move away from ‘millennial grey’. Green has gradually been taking over from blue as our bestselling colour.

“We know the route to better health starts in the kitchen. Vegetarian and vegan home cooks are less niche now. Flexitarian diets are more common through all demographics and the cookware purchases are reflecting that. A frypan to sear steaks is no longer a priority. Preserving and jam making has moved over to fermenting and kefir.”

“I was very optimistic that post-election, the economic and political environment would stabilise and confidence would start to return.

“During our first financial quarter - June, July and August - we finished on an increase every month averaging 14% increase over the three months. This gave us hope.

“Then October arrived, normally a good start to our second quarter. We are up on last year, but we anticipated a bigger increase. Are they waiting for the budget, we ask ourselves? I think I need to give up on what’s going to happen, as it’s so difficult to predict. We still have hope that the sales will happen and we are working really hard on giving our customers a knowledgeable, but above all fun experience and boy do they need it with the current world affairs.

“Trends… goodness – gone are the days when piling up roasters would bring them in. We haven’t felt that customers are necessarily in Christmas mode yet, but recent trends have been geared towards bread making, so bannetons, dough scrapers, and pasta making, so pasta machines.

“We have got a great cheese area, which has started well, camembert bakers, platters, plates and knives. Let’s hope people will dust their pans down, realise they need new and start cooking again. Ever hopeful.”

Penny Legg, Hobbs Cookware Shop

Caroline Gregory, Cookmate Worcester

Liz Lawson, Lawsons

The trend for keeping homes clean, neat and tidy continues apace and suppliers throughout the housewares industry are launching innovative new products to satisfy consumer demand. PH finds out what’s new and what’s influencing consumer purchasing in the sector.

CLEAN ROUTINE

Cleaning, tidying, organising and sorting have come into the spotlight in recent years, meaning that something that was once seen as a household job by most, is now seen as a pastime for many. With videos such as ‘clean with me’ and ‘Sunday reset’ trending on

TikTok, there’s a huge appetite for cleaning, storage and utility products.

Martin Wilson, category director for utility and outdoor at RKW outlines: “Social media has transformed the way cleaning and organisation trends are perceived. While cleaning was once seen purely as a chore, it’s now being recognised as a mindful activity that supports mental wellbeing. It allows busy individuals to focus, tidy their homes and create a peaceful environment.

“Despite these shifting attitudes, many consumers still trust traditional methods when choosing cleaning products. That’s where we come in. Our products blend the reliability of classic techniques with modern enhancements. As lifestyles get busier, consumers increasingly seek efficient cleaning solutions. Our products are designed to prioritise convenience and

speed, addressing this need for quick and effective results.”

Feeding into the quick and efficient trend, is an increasing desire for products which tackle various tasks. Richard Joseph, co-founder and ceo at Joseph Joseph, explains: “We’re seeing a significant shift toward multi-functional products in the cleaning and storage categories and innovation is key.

“Consumers are seeking versatile products and design solutions that simplify their routines for everyday tasks, freeing up time and making the process more enjoyable. Smart storage systems that optimise space in smaller living areas are leading the way.”

Lucy Williams, marketing manager, Scrub Daddy Europe and UK agrees: “In cleaning, multi-functional products are a big trend. Consumers want solutions that serve multiple purposes in the home and Scrub

Inset: Joseph Joseph’s new Space cookware features Swinglock technology that allows the pan’s handles to fold in.

Inset: The new ReBorn bathroom range recently launched in John Lewis, features the world’s most eco-loo-gical (pardon the pun) toilet brush.

Below right: Mepal’s latest innovation was Easyclip – a one-clip storage solution you can prepare, cook and freeze food in.

Daddy’s temperature controlled FlexTexture offers exactly that, with different textures for various cleaning tasks.

“The influence of social media, particularly platforms like TikTok, has also sparked interest in unique and innovative cleaning products. People are drawn to visually appealing, fun designs that make cleaning more enjoyable.”

Black + Blum is seeing two major influences. Managing director, Nick Cornwell explains: “Firstly people want to purchase products that ideally have more than one use or function. That is for space saving, cost and sustainability reasons.

“Secondly, there is a fast-growing trend in the area of meal prepping, which is leading to consumers wanting to purchase the ideal storage containers to help with this. Our stainless-steel Multifunction food boxes and bowls have therefore proved to be a winner.”

Space is a premium for many homes, so organisation is an important trend in the sector. Joe Stalder, country sales manager, UK, Mepal, tells PH: “Over the last couple of years – pushed by the Marie Kondo hype –we see a continuation of the general trend towards organising your home. However, the lack of space and storage in the home is making people become more creative with how to use space, looking for organising ‘hacks’ and finding aesthetically pleasing solutions, which they then share the before and after situations.

“A storage container does not have to be boring and organising can be fun and is becoming an increasingly important part of home design.”

Max Viale-Sole, sales manager for UK and Ireland at OXO, agrees: “Space optimisation is another major trend, driven by the rise of hybrid working. Consumers want smart, space-saving storage options that combine functionality with style, both at home and on the move. Modular and stackable designs that keep cupboards, countertops and fridges tidy are especially popular.”

Energy saving

Design also plays a part in purchasing decisions.

Amit Juneja, managing director of Benross Marketing continues: “Storage solutions are shifting toward modular and stylish designs, such as space saving narrow bins and vacuum storage bags, that maximise space while complementing modern décor. These solutions now come in sleek designs with matt black and grey finishes.

“Similarly, basic utilitarian products, such as toilet brushes and sink caddies are receiving an aesthetic and practical facelift, increasing hygiene and durability, but now available in minimalist, matt finishes that match contemporary decor.”

Consumers searching for products which offer value and durability is a move seen throughout housewares, including the cleaning, storage and utility sector. Laurence

With energy prices soaring again and increasing challenges around fuel payments, Benross is seeing an increased focus on products that help reduce household costs, particularly in the laundry department.

Amit explains: “Products that assist with reducing costs and lowering household overheads are becoming a go-to solution, offering a cheaper and more energy-efficient way to dry clothes, declutter or clean unwanted mess.

“Indoor drying solutions such as clothes drying racks are also growing in popularity, offering an economical alternative to energy-intensive appliances. Paired with products like dehumidifiers, which help speed up drying times, these solutions allow consumers to save money, by avoiding high-cost, energy-draining methods during colder months.”

comments: “Consumers and retailers are looking for reliability of product to do a good job, a fair price and additional features and benefits.”

Lucy agrees: “Consumers are prioritising quality and value for money. Durability is essential – they want products that last and offer consistent performance over time.”

The cost-of-living crisis has placed an increased focus on the value of products. Martin expands: “Economic challenges also influence purchasing decisions. We remain focused on providing high-quality, affordable products that stand out. Consumers are willing to invest in better products and we offer trusted brands, backed by guarantees, to ensure lasting value.”

Richard continues: “Durability is a huge factor, especially for retailers, as they need to meet the evolving expectations of their customers.

“Shoppers want products that last longer and perform better so that they don’t need to replace them. At the same time, there’s a growing demand for items that offer convenience, such as ergonomic designs and compact storage options.

“The ongoing economic challenges have impacted

Above: RKW’s new Duo Compact Spin Mop features two separate compartments –one for clean and one for dirty water – ensuring a more hygienic and effective clean. Inset: Benross offers a range of space-saving, energy efficient heated airers to suit any space.

Inset: Black+Blum has just added two new variants to its Multifunction food boxes in the form of 1.1l and 1.4l square versions.

remained resilient in the face of economic

some areas in housewares, there has been

remained resilient. The continual container and distribution prices going up does add

Nick furthers: “Thankfully the area of food storage appears to have been immune to recent economic challenges. The quarterly

consumer purchasing data produced by BHETA consistently shows the food storage product category as outperforming the overall housewares market.

“This is driven a lot by consumers using food storage products to save money by avoiding food waste, as well as using them for meal prepping – another good way to economise. For these financial benefits, consumers are happy to invest in products.”

The cost-of-living crisis has also changed the retailing approach in the sector. Brian concludes. “There’s a continued drift towards more promotional activity in the category as retailers and manufacturers chase sales and share in a relatively flat market.

“This is especially true in the second half with Black Friday, holiday season and the rise of more retailer-fuelled ‘mini-peak’ events, such as ‘back to uni’ in AugustSeptember and ‘Recycling Week’ in October.

“For the long-term health of the category, it’s vital that retailers and manufacturers also focus on innovation and consumer needs and trends, beyond just price and promotions.”

As pet ownership has increased, particularly following the pandemic, Ultimate Products has seen an influx in demand for cleaning tools that tackle the messes associated with pets.

Emma Rawley, trading director, tells PH: “Consumers are looking for products that can specifically target these common clean ups, whether that be fur on the sofa, or muddy paw prints. With this in mind, we have extended our bestselling Beldray Pet Plus range, offering a collection of antibacterial

Some of the most popular items in the range include the Reusable Gel Lint Roller, and Furresh Cleaning Blade, for removing embedded pet hair from carpets.

“Increasingly consumers are seeking durable products amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which is something we have considered during development,” explains Emma. “Many of the tools are rinseable and reusable, extending the lifespan and eliminating the need for disposable alternatives. Additionally an anti-bacterial coating on each of the items prevents bacteria growth and helps them

1: Elliott 480ml Glass Spray Bottles

The Elliott 480ml Glass Spray Bottles are ideal for laundry tasks and watering plants. Their reusable design helps reduce plastic waste, and the adjustable nozzle allows for both mist and stream options. They are the perfect sustainable alternative! Available from Dayes. Dayes

T: 01728 833400

E: customer.service@dayesuk.com W: www.dayesuk.com

2: A super stylish Dressboy

Brabantia’s Linn Dressboy is a smart rack that leans stylishly in hallways, bedrooms or bathrooms whilst airing clothes. It has a rounded shoulder-like frame to hang jackets and blouses, a handy hook at the top for clothes hangers, and three hanging bars. It’s Cradle to Cradle certified at silver level, with a steel frame and is made from 38% recycled material and is 99% recyclable after use. The Linn Dressboy also comes with fixing materials and non-slip, non-skid caps to protect interior surfaces.

Brabantia

E: sales.uk@brabantia.com W: www.brabantia.com/uk

3: EKO Hana Recycler

Introducing the new EKO Hana RecyclerEKO’s first range all made from post-consumer waste. The slim design fits perfectly into any home or office, saving space without compromising on style. There are six stickers included, so users can customise their bin with the correct label for waste and recycling. Available in a choice of matt black and dark grey and in either 30L or 45L sizes.

EKO

T: 01525 611001

E: sales@ekohome.co.uk

W: www.ekohome.co.uk

Modula storage box range

The Modula range from Mepal with its functional design and transparent lid allows users to focus on what’s inside instantly. Making it easy for users to know what to stock up on next time they go to the shops! The different sizes match the standard dry food packages perfectly and the stackable boxes make for a tidy kitchen drawer. The Modula storage boxes are made in The Netherlands and give a clear overview in every kitchen.

Mepal

E: j.stalder@mepal.com

W: www.mepal.com

5: Beldray Deep Clean Collection

Target tough grime and deep clean hard to reach areas with the Beldray Deep Clean collection. Featuring 15 multifunctional cleaning tools, the range includes a Scrubber Turbo Brush, which combats hard to clean areas including grout, taps and hobs. Featuring four interchangeable heads of different sizes, the electric scrubber is suitable for a variety of cleaning tasks. The range also includes a three piece Bottle Brush Set, which contains a variety of brushes designed to clean delicate items; a wide brush for wine glasses and teapots, a long brush for narrow bottles and vases, and a shorter brush for water bottles and drinking glasses.

Ultimate Products

E: sales@upplc.com

W: www.beldray.com

6: National Trust Plant Based Cleaning Cloths

Eddingtons continues its collaboration with the National Trust - Europe’s largest conservation charity - by producing a stunning new range of plant-based cleaning cloths that feature watercolour illustrations of countryside scenes, native flora and fauna, as well as animals and insects; reflecting the conservation work undertaken by the Trust and its’ team of rangers.

Eddingtons

T: 01488 686572

E: sales@eddingtons.co.uk

W: www.eddingtons.co.uk

Products New Cleaning, Utility & Storage

4 2 3 5 1

Get well-organised

The Mepal storage solutions organise your kitchen to make it look super sleek.

The colourful all-rounder Cirqula is designed for the complete ‘circle of use’. Prepped ingredients or meals, as well as leftovers can be stored air and aroma tight in the fridge or freezer, heated up in the microwave (with a separate microwaveable lid) and then be served at the table. And once you have finished, they can be put in the dishwasher, ready to start another ‘circle of use’!

The Modula range with its transparent boxes and lids give an instant view of what’s inside, so you know what to buy when you next do the shopping. The stackable rectangular and square storage boxes make it easy to organise your kitchen drawers and cabinets.

Whereas the Omnia space-saving boxes can be nicely stacked on the fridge shelves and the transparent containers allow you to see what’s inside. The airtight seals and solid lids are airtight and aroma free, keeping food fresher for longer.

To discover more about Mepal’s storage range, or other product ranges, contact j.stalder@mepal.com or call 07384 317364

1: Beldray Pet Plus AntiBac Collection

Rid homes of pet hair with the Beldray Pet Plus AntiBac range. Featuring a range of tools designed to combat pet fur and mess, the Beldray team have further improved their best-selling range through the addition of an antibacterial coating that prevents bacteria growth and keeps items fresher for longer. Highlights from the range include the Reusable Gel Lint Roller, which features a squeegee blade to lift stubborn hair, and has a sticky gel coating to capture pet hair effortlessly. It can be rinsed and reused for long lasting results!

Ultimate Products

E: sales@upplc.com

W: www.beldray.com

2: Full Circle Fuzz Off Bamboo 2-in-1 Lint Remover

The Fuzz Off Bamboo 2-in-1 Lint Remover from Full Circle has a compact design and combines a lint remover and a microfiber fuzz eradicator. Due to its size, it can be taken anywhere! To open it simply twist and align the flat edges and then pull. To lock it, reinsert brush, realign flat edges, and twist closed. Eddingtons

T: 01488 686572

E: sales@eddingtons.co.uk

W: www.eddingtons.co.uk

3: Easy airing

Brabantia is taking refreshing clothes that little step further with the new Clothes Hook with Suction Cup - ideal for airing between wears! This smart hook can take on three hangers and up to two kilograms. Just stick it to an open window, door, or tiles. It offers a conscious choice too, as airing clothes saves on washing, energy and water. Available in black or light grey, this handy device is 100% recyclable after use and comes with a two year guarantee. Users will be hooked in no-time!

Brabantia

E: sales.uk@brabantia.com

W: www.brabantia.com/uk

4: CrushGrind Basel Toolbox

The CrushGrind Basel Toolbox is a versatile and stylish storage solution perfect for any room in the home. Made from a sustainable bio composite material, it features a beautiful oak wood handle for easy carrying. This toolbox is ideal for organizing and transporting essentials like spice grinders, oils, and vinegars for outdoor cooking, or for keeping the bathroom, kitchen, or bedroom tidy. Available in green and white pepper, the Basel Toolbox combines functionality with a sleek design, making it a practical and attractive addition to any home. Its eco-friendly construction and thoughtful design reflect CrushGrind’s commitment to quality and sustainability.

Burton McCall

T: 0116 234 4611

E: sales@burton-mccall.com

W: www.burton-mccall.com

5: New for Autumn 2024 from Greener Cleaner

Greener Cleaner is extending its high-performance eco-friendly cleaning range with some great new additions including the Slate Grey Dual Ended Detail Brush. It has strong bristles which clean effectively and are suitable all around the home. It has a long, narrow handle for cleaning all areas with a wide brush end for larger surfaces and a narrow brush end for awkward areas. Made from 100% recycled plastic and dishwasher safe.

Greener Cleaner

T: 07796 610453

E: Laurence.smith@vitalityhouse.co.uk

W: www.greenerc.co.uk

6: New Telescopic Microfibre mop

Also new for autumn 2024 is the Greener Cleaner Telescopic Microfibre Flat Mop. Made from 100% recycled plastic, it has a three part telescopic handle for easy storage, which extended to 1.8 metres. The washable mop head is easy to apply and remove and removes dirt, grease and bacteria from any hard floors, or tiled surfaces. It has a 100 machine wash guarantee and is approved by Allergy UK. Greener Cleaner

T: 07796 610453

E: Laurence.smith@vitalityhouse.co.uk

W: www.greenerc.co.uk

4 2

SCRUB DADDY’S SMILING SUCCESS

Scrub

Daddy’s rapid UK growth in

2024

Scrub Daddy is supercharging the scourer category by attracting new customers who are switching to the premium brand. Lucy Williams, marketing manager for Scrub Daddy Europe and UK, tells PH: “This shift is not only benefiting Scrub Daddy, but also giving the entire category a transformation. Remarkably, research shows 80% of Scrub Daddy’s growth has powered the overall scourer market, resulting in 2.7 million sales.”

But what is Scrub Daddy's recipe for success? Lucy answers: “Winning over new shoppers and turning them into devoted fans. Many consumers are ditching their old sponges for the smiley face of Scrub Daddy now. 3.5% (1 million) of UK households have at least one Scrub Daddy product and are enjoying Scrub Daddy's magic.”

Scrub Daddy’s global vision in action

Scrub Daddy announced its merger with Evo Lifestyle Products/Scrub Daddy BV in March 2024. This merger promises numerous benefits, including a unified company which streamlines logistics and launches new products across all markets. By leveraging combined expertise and best practices, the merger aims to optimise

operational efficiency and accelerate delivery times, significantly enhancing the overall customer experience.

“With a proven track record of rapid growth in the EU, this merger is poised to further strengthen Scrub Daddy's market position and enable more customers to enjoy its products,” explains Lucy. “Together, as a unified entity, the company looks forward to an exciting journey of growth and innovation, bringing smiles to households everywhere.”

Scrub Daddy, the innovative sponge, is causing a stir in the UK market. With its infectious smile, remarkable 123% growth and market spend, Scrub Daddy is surging ahead of the category with 5.2% growth. This rapid rise highlights Scrub Daddy’s vibrant market presence and its growing popularity among consumers.

“In challenging times, consumers look for reliable products and Scrub Daddy delivers on that front,” furthers Lucy. “Its growing popularity has solidified its place as a key player in the UK market. With its innovative designs and focus on customer satisfaction, Scrub Daddy is transforming the cleaning experience into something efficient and enjoyable.”

Scrub Daddy meets costconscious consumer needs

Amid the cost-of-living crisis, Scrub Daddy has observed a noticeable shift in how consumers approach purchasing cleaning products. Lucy expands: “People are more mindful of their choices, seeking items that provide greater value for money. This shift has worked in our favour, as our products, known for their durability and odour resistance, offer long-lasting performance.”

Scrub Daddy sponges can tackle a variety of cleaning tasks, making them a costeffective option. Consumers are investing in high-quality products that save them money and Scrub Daddy fits the bill.

Scrub Daddy prepares for a festive Christmas

Scrub Daddy is gearing up for an exciting Christmas season, a festive surprise in store that is sure to delight its customers. While keeping specifics under wraps, the brand has confirmed the launch of special, limitededition product perfect for a stocking filler. Additionally, Scrub Daddy will be rolling out fun, holiday-themed marketing campaigns designed to spread plenty of seasonal cheer. Lucy concludes: “Shoppers can expect the brand's signature bright colours, smiley faces and the lively energy that Scrub Daddy is known for.

“Whether it’s for gift-giving or getting homes ready for holiday guests, Scrub Daddy is set to be a star player in the festive cleaning routine this season.”

Inset: Scrub Daddy announced its merger with Evo Lifestyle Products/Scrub Daddy BV in March 2024. Below: Scrub Daddy offers a wide range of cleaning

in a variety of retailers.

Get gifting Ready

Captivate your customers with this season's most wanted gifts. Order now in time for Christmas

DESIGNED SUCCESS

for

Design powerhouse, Captivate Brands is set to unveil new SS25 ranges for its best-selling licensed brands line-up at the spring round of shows. That includes a whole new selection of product for its original best-selling licence, Mary Berry.

For AW 2024, and showcased at Exclusively in June, the Captivate Brands in-house design team created yet another strong portfolio of designs for the business’s other top licensed brands Cath Kidston and Yvonne Ellen. The latest licensed design to join the line-up, Maxwell & Williams tabletop from Australia, has seen huge success with repeat orders as soon as it hit the shelves.

Kevin McKay, managing director at Captivate Brands says it has been another incredible year. “Our licensed brands are

performing phenomenally, but we also have a really strong portfolio of in-house brands that are going from strength to strength. Like Woodbury Lane tabletop and giftware, which we had a brilliant reaction to at the summer shows and Luxe, into which we have now added utensils to sit alongside the bakeware.

“The licensed designs are integral to our business and will continue to be so. But it’s all about getting the right partners –licenced brands which have a commercial as well as a creative eye. That is something we have learned and has meant we move into 2025 with a solid line-up of licences including new partners.”

‘New for 2025. Orla Kiely and The London Pottery Co’

AW2024 and Christmas

Founded in 2013, the Yvonne Ellen brand combines on-trend colours and subtle hints of gold, for an elegant aesthetic and the partnership with Captivate Brands continues to result in tabletop and giftware with a twist of nostalgia.

YVONNE ELLEN

Above and right: The Yvonne Ellen range offers on-trend colours with subtle hints of gold.

MAXWELL & WILLIAMS

This year saw this leading Australian brand find its new home with Captivate Brands. The beautiful collections use high end materials, ensuring exceptional quality whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a dinner party banquet.

LUXE KITCHEN

Fast becoming one of Captivate Brands

best-selling ranges, Luxe Kitchen features all the kitchen kit consumers need – from heavy gauge bakeware, to superior gadgets and utensils. Consumers can feel confident that birthday bake or Sunday roast will turn out perfectly, thanks to Luxe Kitchen.

One of the latest in-house designs from Captivate Brands, Woodbury Lane perfectly combines a traditional rustic feel with contemporary lines, shapes and colours, across tabletop and kitchenware like gingham mugs, a wooden egg house and dinnerware. The range was a real hit at the recent summer shows.

WOODBURY LANE

Inset and left: The Luxe Kitchen collection offers a range of superior gadgets and utensils.

Inset: Woodbury Lane is one of the latest in-house brands from Captivate Brands.

Inset: The Caviar Granite collection from Maxwell & Williams.

As energy costs continue to rise and place increasing pressure on households across the UK, consumers are more conscious than ever about finding ways to save money. PH finds out about the latest launch from Benross Marketing’s BLACK + DECKER range.

HEAT WAVE

The need for energy-efficient appliances is especially pressing with the recent removal of the winter fuel allowance for pensioners, causing additional concerns about heating costs and utility bills. In this challenging landscape, affordable, energy-saving solutions are not just a luxury—they're a necessity.

Launching in 2024, the brand-new BLACK + DECKER X-Airer, designed and developed under licence by Benross Marketing, is set to revolutionise laundry drying. Amit Juneja, managing director, tells PH: “With its unique, patented x-frame design, the X-Airer is built to deliver not only superior stability during use but also a compact storage solution when not in operation.”

The innovative design means the X-Airer takes up minimal space, making it ideal for homes where storage is at a premium.

“However, what truly sets the X-Airer apart is its efficiency,” explains Amit. “With a modest energy consumption rate of just 300W and running costs as low as £0.07 per hour, this modern airer offers a far more cost-effective alternative to traditional drying methods.”

In today’s cost-conscious climate, the BLACK + DECKER X-Airer provides a solution that balances convenience with energy savings, making it the ideal choice for households looking to reduce their utility bills without sacrificing performance.

Amit futhers: “For pensioners who are particularly affected by the removal of the winter fuel allowance, energy-efficient

Inset: The BLACK + DECKER X-Airer saves on bills and conserves space.

Below right: Benross offers a wide range of heated airers including three-tier and winged designs.

solutions like the X-Airer can offer welcome relief by reducing household running costs. The modest power usage and low operating costs make it easier to manage drying clothes even in colder months, without incurring high energy expenses.”

Whether consumers are looking to save on bills, conserve space, or simply adopt a smarter drying solution, the BLACK + DECKER X-Airer is an innovative and practical choice. As the UK continues to adapt to rising costs and changes in energy support, Benross Marketing’s X-Airer ensures that households have access to an affordable, reliable and energy-efficient option for laundry care.

In addition to the X-Airer, BLACK + DECKER offers a wide range of heated airers already available on the market, including popular three-tier and winged designs.

1: Vacu Vin Electric Wine Opener

Wine lovers can experience the ultimate convenience with Vacu Vin’s Electric Wine Opener, designed to effortlessly uncork bottles of wine at the touch of a button. This fully automatic opener eliminates the hassle of traditional corkscrews, removing and ejecting the cork in seconds. With premium craftsmanship it can open up to 35 bottles on a single charge, making it perfect for gatherings, or regular use. The long-lasting battery ensures reliability, while the included foil cutter makes seal removal easy. Stylish, efficient, and user-friendly, this wine opener is the ideal companion for any wine lover.

Haus

T: 01782 572910

E: info@inthehaus.co.uk

W: www.hauswares.co.uk

2: STAUB Ceramique Mugs

These new ceramic mugs from STAUB come in a zesty Citron yellow and a calming Eucalyptus green, adding a splash of subtle colour to any kitchen. Available in five shapes, from mini espresso to a large, bowl-shaped mug, with perfect sizes for cappuccino, latte and hot chocolate in between, this new range has something for everyone. It is great to collect, mix-and-match, or gift for the tea or coffee lover in your life. The mugs are dishwasher and microwave-safe, temperature-resistant up to 300°C and are stackable, making them easy to use, clean and store.

STAUB

T: 0330 363 0005

E: sales@zwilling.co.uk

W: www.zwilling.co.uk

3: National Trust Nature Organic Cotton Tea Towels

In addition to the already available National Trust nature and Alfriston clergy collection of glass worktop protectors, Eddingtons has produced a new range of organic cotton tea towels. The range features illustrations of the hare and pheasant, dragonflies, bees, butterflies, puffins and a kingfisher and are made from 100% organic cotton.

Eddingtons

T: 01488 686572

E: sales@eddingtons.co.uk

W: www.eddingtons.co.uk

4: Limited Edition Black Range

The new Black Edition from Black+Blum brings a timeless colour to some of its most popular designs. The range is available now for the stainless steel Explorer Bottle, Insulated Water Bottle, Insulated Travel Cup, Food Flask and Stainless Steel Lunch Box. Each product is built to last a lifetime and now with the new black colourway, they will never go out of style. Only available whilst stocks last. Black+Blum

E: sales@black-blum.com

W: www.black-blum.com

5: Bamix Celebrates

70th Anniversary

Products New

2 3 5 1

This year marks the 70th anniversary of bamix hand blenders. These hand blenders come with versatile attachments like the multi-purpose blade, beater, and whisk, making them perfect for blending, whipping, and chopping. The powerful motors ensure consistent performance, while the ergonomic design provides comfort during use. Celebrating seven decades of excellence, bamix continues to be a trusted name in kitchens worldwide, combining durability, efficiency, and style.

Burton McCall

T: 0116 234 4611

E: sales@burton-mccall.com

W: www.burton-mccall.com

6: New Yvonne Ellen Collection

For autumn/winter 2024, and showcased at Exclusively in June, Captivate Brands is launching the new Yvonne Ellen collection. This collection is perfect for Christmas with its subtle hints of gold, which combined with on-trend colours, is a key feature of the elegant aesthetic created by the licensed partnership with Captivate Brands. The collection features tabletop and giftware with a twist of nostalgia.

Captivate Brands

T: 01386 421622

E: info@captivatebrands.co.uk

W: www.captivatebrands.com

Golden anniversary

Trevor Mottram celebrates 50 Years in 2025. Owner Sarah Wood says: “The shop has expanded several times and contracted once in that time. Trevor was my uncle and he had a very strict idea about cookware - no colour so black, white and steel. This has definitely had to change over the years and largely when silicone was introduced into our products.”

Recipe for success

“The key ingredients for longevity I think, are good, better, best and beautiful products - well that's what I think of when I buy,” explains Sarah. “Also staff, training and longevity - we have very little staff turnover and even our Saturday staff stay with us all the way through university.”

The best thing

“Our building is quite amazingfive floors (only one retail) but that does give us tons of storage. It’s hot in the summer and freezing in the winter - love an old building. And it’s listed, so we’re not able to change much about it. We also finally have a stock control/epos system that works.”

Recent changes

“During lockdown we were approached by Interior Design Masters (with Alan Carr) to have half of the shop 'made over'. It was a great experience and we were very happy with the results - although a control freak like me didn't give them a total free hand.”

SHELF PORTRAIT

TREVOR MOTTRAM

Trevor Mottram first opened the doors to his iconic cookware shop in 1975. Trevor became one of the first pure cookshops in the country. In 2000, Trevor and his wife retired to France and sold the business to niece Sarah and her husband Alan Wood, who continue to run the shop today. They run the business with the same ethos and inspiration and have extended ranges to suit the demands of the modern cook.

Facts and stats

l “The shop is over 3,000sq ft, but retail space is a little over 1,000 sq ft…”

l “…In which we have about 11,000 SKUs. Madness I know.”

l “Trevor Mottram's granddaughter is our Saturday girl - we've had almost whole families work for us over the years - my son has worked here with myself and Alan, too.”

l “We’re planning lots of events for our 50th birthday next yeardemonstrations and competitions mainly.”

Current trade

“Trade is very odd - some weekdays trump a Saturday - I

think we have to forget everything we knew about trade patterns and encourage new ones - and new consumers.”

ON THE WAY UP

“Scanpan and Wusthof are still top sellers for us, with Kuhn Rikon coming up fast. We sell a lot of loose knives as opposed to sets and the same with cookware.”

UPS AND DOWNS

“Rarely do we offer sets of knives or cookware - I find them too restrictive for the customer.”

Big spender

“Our biggest sale today so far was a Scanpan medium classic roaster with lid and rack - for a chap’s outside kitchen, that came to approximately £175.”

Old and new suppliers

“Our newest supplier is Rinkit - but we have been using quite a few very small suppliers on Faire. Our longest standing supplier is probably Dexam - going right back to the Rushbrooke days.”

Marketing mix

“We do promote the shop, but through the social media channels mainly.”

Inset: Sarah Wood, owner of Trevor Mottram, at the recent Excellence in Housewares Awards, where the retailer was named the Gia UK winner, courtesy of the International Housewares Association.

Above: Trevor Mottram celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025. Right: The shop uses mainly social media to promote itself, including seasonal offerings.

Inset: Dexam is Trevor Mottram’s longest standing supplier.

Nivtar Distribution offers an online fulfilment and distribution service for a growing range of suppliers in the housewares industry, from running the fulfilment for D2C sites, to providing UK warehousing and much more in between. PH sits down with ceo and founder, Nishant Gupta, to find out more.

AT YOUR SERVICE

“So when I joined, as well as looking at the accounting and processes of the business, I wanted to expand the online operation.”

Nishant Gupta grew up surrounded by housewares as his parents owned and ran traditional housewares stores across London. After gaining his accountancy qualifications and pursuing a career in business restructuring in the city, Nishant returned to the family business. Nishant, now founder and ceo of Nivtar Distribution, tells PH: “I always had it in mind that I wanted to be in business, or to join the family business and I finally did that in 2009. At that time, the online side of the business had already started and Amazon had begun and was growing fast.

In the beginning, products sold in the shops were listed on Amazon and eBay and were shipped directly from the shops. Before long, the business took on a small warehouse to store products and ship online orders from.

“As the years went on, we started to sell to Groupon, which was even more volume,” Nishant explains. “The Groupon business helped to make the relationships we had with brands more substantial and more commercial and we started to do bigger deals, partnering with them to offer things to Groupon.”

In turn, this led to Groupon referring Nivtar to brands that it wanted to work with, making the company a name for getting goods to market effectively.

eight and 10 containers each week.

The premises now house a team of around 35 to 40 staff, who manage around 20,000 SKUs.

Now Nivtar only trades online as a service for its clients, offering B2B and B2C fulfilment with all the key retailers. Once working with a business, Nivtar is able to open up new services quickly and efficiently. Nishant explains: “For example if our clients are at trade fairs and a retailer is asking about drop shipping because they don’t want the stock in store, we want our clients to be able to say ‘yes, we can’. If we’re not already integrated, we can do so within a few days and ensure our clients can secure those listings.”

The services offered by Nivtar open up new opportunities, while removing the risk in a challenging environment: “Retailers don’t want

Over the coming years, Nishant grew the online side of the business and expanded the company’s capabilities for carrying out the fulfilment side of the deals. “This is how we became a useful intermediary for getting goods to market effectively,” reflects Nishant. “That’s how this whole thing really began. In time, we began doing more and more online and we were constantly growing our capabilities for doing the fulfilment side of things, finding the right products at the right prices and sourcing and eventually we began to close our shops.”

At the time, bricks and mortar retail was becoming increasingly challenging, with rent and rates rising, so the move to being an online-only operator quickly followed. The business now operates from its HQ in North West London, as well as the warehouse in Duxford and an ‘overflow warehouse’ where shipments are landed, receiving between

Inset: Nishant Gupta, founder and ceo of Nivtar.

to invest in buying stock any more because they know the risk association. Many of them don’t want to give orders for a year in advance.”

Other options include the management of self-fulfilled Prime (SFP) on Amazon. Nishant comments: “SFP is growing, because it enables our clients to control their own sales. They set their own price, but they still get the Prime badge and customers still get the Prime delivery service.

growing. Despite uncertain consumer spending, Nishant is keen to grow the client base. “We try and work with brands that have interesting, unique and innovative products, which are nicely packaged and have a strong brand identity and presence,” he explains. “Those brands will be the ones which will always come through because they’re offering something unique.

“We also try not to work with pure price competitors, or products that don’t have a unique aspect and are purely price driven.”

“Amazon is such a huge part of the ecommerce landscape, we’re recommending brands should engage with the platform, but on their terms. Make sure you’ve got the brand page, listings and service levels and then you can establish your brand how you want on your website, through your stores or other retailers, but maintain Amazon as part of that landscape. So we get increasingly involved in managing Amazon stores, doing the listings, the brand stores and the registry.”

While working primarily in housewares, Nivtar has expanded into complementary categories, such as gifting, luggage, lighting, outdoor furniture and more on an international basis. “Anything we can store here, we can do the fulfilment for,” says Nishant.

The can-do attitude is supported by the facilities in the warehouse. “We create right-size packaging for every single order that goes out. We have a couple of box making machines here. One of which makes standard size boxes, while the other allows you to enter the exact dimensions and will provide a blank cut out of the box. That capability enables us to be really flexible in the items we can handle.”

Bespoke packaging also helps Nivtar’s sustainability effort as it reduces waste to a minimum by using the right sized boxes while also negating the need for void fill. With all this in place, the business is steadily

Once those brands are on board - and they currently include the likes of Pure Table Top, Pyrex, Joseph Joseph, Thermos, Brita, Villeroy & Boch, Black + Blum, Grunwerg and many more - Nivtar offers a unique service. “We’re not purely a fulfilment company, we’re not purely a distributor, we’re a hybrid of the two,” Nishant continues. “So the speed at which we can get products to market with the major retailers is refreshing. Once we’ve got the goods in the warehouse and we’ve got the relationship established, it can be very quick, so I think we’re adding value on both the selling and the buying side.”

As brands experience the Nivtar service, word of mouth is bringing in continued new business. “Most of the business we get is by

referral,” Nishant comments. “We’ve got exciting new brands and channels coming in. We’ve just gone live on Tesco and we’ll be adding a couple of others before Christmas.”

As well as new channels, Nivtar already works with some key players including Next, Amazon, H&M, Debenhams, Dunelm, Robert Dyas, Wayfair, eBay and many more. And that list is set to grow internationally, too.

TikTok shop

Nivtar is planning on expanding its services into TikTok shop fulfilment in the coming months. Nishant explains: “TikTok is on the horizon with a couple of clients here. I think it is going to be huge. It's an example of how these channels make themselves easy to integrate with and easy to be added on as part of a range of other channels.

“I think the days where a particular channel thinks that they are the only channel that you should be selling through have gone. The channels that are growing aren't trying to commit you to just buying from them. They understand that they're part of a wider picture and actually, a consumer might buy from you, but they might buy somewhere else. But you could equally be the beneficiary of somebody seeing content somewhere else and buying from you as well. It works both ways.”

Nishant expands: “We're also going to start doing fulfilment from Germany. So we're going to start with Amazon fulfilment in Germany for some of our clients. And then we're going to look at other services in Europe in the early part of next year.”

The powerhouse behind much of the seamless service is Nivtar’s software. “The way that we manage 80 clients, 20 channels and individual websites is through our software which we spent many years integrating, modifying and customising. And we are continually developing.

“The ERP software manages billing, inventory and custom bundles for various retailers. We’ve also just launched a customer portal so that our clients can look at their inventory, follow the tracking, etc.”

While the software is integral to the smooth running, it’s clear that Nivtar thrives on a formula of great brands, a clear understanding of the retail landscape, great brands and a strong team, allowing it to react quickly and efficiently at all times.

Inset: Two bespoke packaging machines enable Nivtar to take on virtually any product.

1: Cirqula multi bowl

The Cirqula collection is the colourful all-rounder which has been designed for a complete ‘circle of use’. The food in these bowls can be stored in the freezer or fridge, heated up in the microwave (replace the lid for the Mepal microwave lid) and can then be served at the table. And once finished with, they can be put in the dishwasher, ready to start another ‘circle of use’! The lid is flexible, airtight and leakproof, so food will stay fresher for longer, and the transparent window allows the contents to be seen. A rectangular version is also available.

Mepal

E: j.stalder@mepal.com

W: www.mepal.com

ReBorn Bathroom range

Hot on the heels of the successful kitchenware range launched in 2023, the new ReBorn bathroom range is available in either Light Stone or Graphite Black. The range includes an easy-to-use one-handed soap dispenser (refillable with 250ml capacity) and a clever toilet brush, with a robust & replaceable 360° hourglass head which gets into nooks and crannies. ReBorn is breathing new life into waste – transforming it into stylish and useful homewares. All products are circular by design, so everything is repairable, replaceable and recyclable at the end of its life.

ReBorn

T: 01525 611001

W: www.reborn.homes

3: Insulated Travel Tumbler

Made from high quality 18/8 stainless steel, the 600ml Insulated Travel Tumbler from Black+Blum features an innovative lid lock that makes it 100% leak proof – creating a vacuum seal so it won’t spill a drop. It keeps drinks ice cold for eight hours and piping hot for six and fits neatly into car cup holders. Available now in three colours.

Black+Blum

E: sales@black-blum.com

W: black-blum.com

4: Mikasa x Tipperleyhill

Tipperleyhill are two talented UK based artists, Abi and Roz, who work together to create quirky animal illustrations. Abi paints the animals and Roz adds the colourful pattern to their shirts and accessories. The duo met working at a textile design studio in New York. Roz confessed she didn’t like drawing and Abi replied she didn’t like colouring-in, so this dream-team was created! The fun they have in their friendship and the joy they have in painting together infuses their humorous characters. New items have been added to this collection to include key tableware pieces, such as side plates, cups and saucers, each of which feature Tipperleyhill’s much loved quirky animal illustrations.

Lifetime Brands

T: 0121 6046000

E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.com W: www.lifetimebrandseurope.com

5: S’well Tumbler XL

Introducing the S’well Tumbler XL for more sips and more style. Featuring Therma-S’well Technology with a triplelayered, vacuum-insulated construction, designed to keep drinks cold for fifty hours, hot for ten hours and ice cold for up to four days. Made from 91% recycled food grade 18/8 stainless steel, with a condensation-free exterior that won't sweat in hands, or on tabletops and a leak proof lid. Everyday S’well sets out to bring style, innovation, and joy to sustainable living. It believes something as simple as buying a beautiful reusable bottle can make a big difference and everything it makes is designed to perform beautifully and offer more ways to help use less.

Lifetime Brands

T: 0121 6046000

4 2 3 5 1

E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.com W: www.lifetimebrandseurope.com

6: STAUB Citron Cast Iron Cookware

As STAUB celebrates its 50th year, four cast iron cocottes in the new Citron colourway are now available. Bring some warmth and brightness to any kitchen and dining table with this vivid, sun-kissed tone. As with all STAUB cast iron cocottes, the Citron range features the matte black enamel interior cooking surface which acts as a micro-grill, helping to caramelise ingredients to develop exceptional flavour. This surface is also scratch-resistant and easy to clean. The cocottes also have the self-basting lid where picots, or little spikes, on the underside of the lid ensure steam evenly condenses over the dish, keeping it succulent; thus enhancing texture and preventing what is being cooked from drying out.

STAUB

T: 0330 363 0005

E: sales@zwilling.co.uk

W: www.zwilling.co.uk 6

1: STAUB x Buster + Punch

The Anglo-French partnership of STAUB and Buster + Punch is a thrilling meeting of French culinary heritage with London’s masters of metal. STAUB’s cast iron frying pan and cocotte are elevated by Buster + Punch’s signature design — the cross-knurled handles — embodying London’s energy and attitude and bringing it onto any table. The range includes 24cm and 28cm cocottes, each with the Buster + Punch knurled Tbar handle in brass or stainless steel, and a 28cm frying pan with long Buster + Punch handle, again in brass or steel.

STAUB

T: 0330 363 0005

E: sales@zwilling.co.uk

W: www.zwilling.co.uk

2: Scanpan To Go Colourways

New Pastel Colourways of the To Go bottles by Scanpan are thoughtfully crafted to blend style, practicality, and sustainability; making them an essential companion for those who lead an active lifestyle. Built with high-quality, durable materials, the To Go bottles ensure that cold drinks stay refreshingly chilled for up to 24 hours, while hot beverages remain warm and enjoyable for up to twelve hours. This exceptional temperature retention is made possible by advanced doublewall insulation technology, which prevents heat transfer and condensation, keeping drinks at their ideal temperature without sweating, or leaking.

Haus

T: 01782 572910

E: info@inthehaus.co.uk

W: www.hauswares.co.uk

3: KitchenAid Tools & Gadgets

This is the ultimate kitchen tools, gadgets and accessories range. It covers everything for preparation, stirring, straining and serving, with both soft-grip and hard handled options, as well as ranges in stainless steel and birchwood. The Universal range includes all the accessories you would expect to use alongside the tools; including mixing bowls, measuring jugs, scales, tongs, knives and cutting boards. The range recently extended into sink ware and two additional items for autumn 2024 have been a pull cord chopper and stainless steel salt and pepper mills. A variety of retail display solutions are available including seasonal opportunity FSDUs.

Lifetime Brands

T: 0121 6046000

E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.com

W: www.lifetimebrandseurope.com

4: Mikasa x V&A Alice in Wonderland

Lifetime Brands has extended its Mikasa x V&A Alice in Wonderland collection to showcase the iconic illustrations by Sir John Tenniel from Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale, and added a dash of contemporary style with on-trend pastel colours. Wonderfully giftable and sustainably thought through, gift box packaging is recyclable and drop ship ready. Each box is adorned with beautiful illustrations and contains a surprise on opening – a memorable unboxing experience inspired by the magic of Wonderland. The team have taken the fun through to printed point of sale too with small and large scale cut outs of the characters - ideal for bringing the displays to life. A tried and tested gifting hit.

Lifetime Brands

T: 0121 6046000

E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.com

W: www.lifetimebrandseurope.com

5: Woodbury Lane from Captivate Brands

One of the latest in-house designs from Captivate Brands, Woodbury Lane, was a real hit when it launched at the recent summer shows. It perfectly combines a traditional rustic feel with contemporary lines, shapes and colours. The range covers tabletop and kitchenware and includes check mugs, wooden egg holder and dinnerware. It joins other popular in-house brands at Captivate include Luxe Kitchen, &Again and Just The Thing.

Captivate Brands

T: 01386 421622

E: info@captivatebrands.co.uk

Products New

W: www.captivatebrands.com 4

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