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KBzine: the original kitchen and bathroom industry e-newssince 2002
15th January 2016

 

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Please note that you are viewing an archived issue of The KBzine.




International News
Products

'Sophisticated Showering' from Grange Design

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Exclusively available from specialist distributor Grange Design, this new Black Steel Shower Set by MGS is said to be a design first, being the only black collection for the bathroom designed and made from stainless steel.
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Caple's new AN900 Anoka chimney hood combines style, function and technology

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Caple's new AN900 Anoka chimney hood has a sleek, black glass and stainless steel finish.

Featuring an illuminated electronic touch control and 3W LED light bar, it offers Caple's latest advanced technology and measures 900mmW x 400mmD x 800-1200mmH.
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Max-Top makes its mark in Magnet

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Max-Top has been appointed as an official supplier to kitchen retail giant Magnet. The new contract will see Max-Top surfaces displayed and sold in all Magnet stores nationwide with immediate effect.
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Electrolux remains in the forefront of connected appliances

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Electrolux has joined Google's Early Access Programme for its Brillo operating system and Weave communications protocol for the Internet of things aimed at developing connected appliances for smart homes.
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Combating the problem of leaky showers with Elements Wetroom

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Avoiding the all too familiar problem of call-outs relating to leaking shower trays and wet rooms, the Elements Wetroom range from Abacus Manufacturing Group is an easy-to-install, tileable wet floor and wall board system for domestic and commercial applications. The components are developed and manufactured in the UK and include shower tray kits and seating.
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AHEC to hold its 2016 European conference in Copenhagen

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The American Hardwood Export Council is reviving its successful conference formula for an event planned for 20th & 21st October 2016 in the Danish capital Copenhagen.
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Abode launches two new 3-exit thermostatic shower valves

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Due to increasing demands from both retailers and consumers alike, Abode has launched two new 3-exit thermostatic shower valves. These new shower valves team up with two of Abode's existing bathroom brassware ranges - Zeal and Harmonie. All Abode concealed thermostatic shower valves are hand polished brass as standard, which provides that all-important finishing touch to a bathroom, en-suite or shower-room.
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Impey unveils new product offerings

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Wetroom specialist Impey has introduced an innovative suite of new products to add to its portfolio of UK designed and produced wetroom solutions - many of which come with a 'Lifetime Watertight Guarantee' and which are packed with impressive technology and installation benefits making them the ideal choice for installers and specifiers.
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German Design Award 2016 for Kaldewei washbasins

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Kaldewei has been honoured once more for its new washbasin segment, winning the German Design Award 2016. An impressive three Kaldewei washbasin series were awarded a 'Special Mention' by the German Design Council.
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Sublimated Trascenda is permanently patterned

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Glass mosaic and decorative solid surfaces specialist, Trend, has launched its new Trascenda agglomerate range, with integrated patterns inspired by the world's finest natural marble, vivid childhood memories and weathered materials at its 19th century Orsoni smalti workshop.
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Aestus presents wintertime heating solutions

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New to Aestus's Designer Italian Collection, by Graziano, is a wintertime collection of contemporary towel rails for the bathroom or kitchen.
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Gaia provides underfloor luxury to prestige river-side apartments

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Gaia's electric underfloor system has been used to bring warmth and comfort to a new apartment development overlooking the river at Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey.
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Fresh shower tray solutions fashioned from innovative new materials

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Duravit has increased its line-up of showering solutions with the introduction of the Stonetto and P3 Comforts shower trays. Fashioned from two new materials, DuraSolid Q and DuraSolid A, they combine performance with aesthetics and offer an attractive alternative to acrylic.
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Miele offers extended warranties on latest range of washing machines and dishwashers

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Miele is offering two extended warranty promotions across selected W1 washing machines and G6000 dishwashers.
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Just in - new photography of Caple's Holton range in stunning Moss & Stone and Storm Grey

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New photography from Caple's Holton range of bedrooms is further proof of just how versatile this range can be with a total of eight colourways to choose from.
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New sealing system is simple to install

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HydroHalt is a new upstand sealing system for sealing perimeter joints around shower trays and baths. Simple to install in both new and existing installations and ideal for regular, slimline and upstand trays and with liquid and mat waterproof tanking systems, it is both flexible and durable.
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Welcome to the

KBzine

Receiving the Blanco press release last week, heralding its participation at KBB Birmingham (see the release below), made me realise that it’s only a few weeks before the industry meets up at the NEC to network, examine the latest innovations, discover the most popular styles and trends and have a look at what the opposition is up to.

I can’t wait!

The organisers tell us that more than 400 leading suppliers from the UK and overseas will be exhibiting at the event, which takes place from 6th – 9th March, so there will be lots to see and play about with and plenty of people to meet.

You can register for your free ticket at https://registration.n200.com/survey/1yjdujk98ujp1 and if you’re exhibiting, do make sure you send us your press releases for a chance of being included in our exhibition preview. With everyone starting to get their visits and appointments booked in, it would be daft to miss out on the potential new business such publicity could bring, by keeping your news to yourself rather than sharing it with our readers, wouldn’t it?

That may sound a bit of a silly statement but John and I are always surprised at how much some companies are prepared to spend on their stands, hospitality and staff expenses when they exhibit at these shows, but who completely neglect the press relations side of the business. It’s all very well pushing the boat out when it comes to your exhibition space and stand team, but if you fail to maximise on the number and calibre of visitors to the stand, it can be money down the drain…

www.facebook.com/KBzine 

Yours,

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Jan Hobbs

 

 


This Week's News

Showers make a splash in bathroom industry

* abode-products.jpgNowadays bathrooms have become spa-like havens offering an escape from the rest of the world. Close the bathroom door and hop into the bubbles of a roll-top tub or Jacuzzi bath, and for half an hour or so you can escape the screaming children or the piles of paperwork on the other side of the door and be transported to a luxurious sanctuary....

The stresses of modern life have led many to seek this refuge in the home, and more bath lovers across the nation are transforming their functional bathrooms into relaxing spaces that rival spa and hotel facilities.
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Consolidation continues in the UK builders & plumbers merchants market

* plumbers-report.jpgThe builders and plumbers merchants market saw strong recovery during 2013 and 2014, following a period of relatively poor market performance, reaching growth of 6% in 2013 and 9% in 2014.

This, says a new report, was due to the housebuilding sector in particular starting to recover, with other key sectors that stimulated demand for merchants' products including offices, infrastructure, industrial and education. Indications are that growth was slightly lower in 2015 at 4%, though the overall trend remains positive.
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InSinkErator is steaming ahead with colour in 2016

* INSINK-WHITE-CHROME.jpgAs the New Year begins, and the home interiors world reflects on the shades Pantone announced as Colour of the Year, InSinkErator, a major player in steaming hot water taps and global leader and inventor of the food waste disposer, has been tapping into the latest colour trends with its striking range of 3N1 steaming hot water taps.

As the principal forecaster and influencer of colour trends in interior design, fashion and beauty globally, Pantone not only ventured away from bold, rich shades, but for the first time chose two colours instead of just one. Rose Quartz, a pale pink, and Serenity, a cool blue, are pastel shades that blend together in a warm tranquillity intended to induce feelings of comfort and relaxation.
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Zip Water UK: the new trading name for Zip Heaters (UK)

* ZIP.jpgZip has started the new year by announcing a change to its trading name. Following a re-positioning and new brand look last year, the company will now be known as Zip Water UK.
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Blanco - German perfection at its best - appearing at KBB

* Blanco-main-pic.jpgPictured is Blanco UK's Subline 500-IF SteelFrame sink with a flat IF rim, which will be on display on Stand I100 at the KBB show, 6th - 9th March 2016. The Silgranit bowl has an extra-flat, modern stainless steel frame and showcases the innovative material mix of granite and stainless steel. Thanks to the IF rim, Subline SteelFrame can be installed from above the counter. However, flush-mounted installation in stone or glass is possible too.

Blanco UK's passion for perfection is reflected in the UK's most comprehensive portfolio of high quality hobs, sinks, taps and extractor hoods. With a German pedigree, Blanco UK is well known for design flair and high quality products which cover all market requirements from the builders' merchant to the prestigious kitchen boutique.
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Time and energy go down the drain thanks to limited laundry capacity...

* Hoover-Household-Report.jpgHoover has released the results of a recent consumer survey which revealed that the average Brit carries out an additional 135 washes every year due to limited washing machine capacity.
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V-Zug completes home steam cooking offering with its first built-in vacuum drawer

* V-Zug.jpgV-Zug has launched its very first vacuum drawer, making it easy for budding home cooks to prepare, cook and store food like the professionals.

Many chefs use vacuum drawers to shrink-wrap food and liquid in air-tight bags. By stopping the food from being affected by ambient air or humidity, it helps to preserve its flavour, moisture, texture and nutrients.
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Leather counter tops chosen by three KBIS exhibitors

* leather-countertop.jpgEcoDomo tells us that its made-to-order leather countertops will feature in three displays at the upcoming Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (19th through 21st January 2016 at the Las Vegas Convention Centre, US).

If you're lucky enough to be attending this event, you can see the products first-hand at Hafele, Northern Contours and Perlick.
more


Easi-Plan simplifies bathroom tiling

* Tile-framework.jpgSimplifying the job of tiling, the Easi-Plan range of concealed installation frames from Abacus Manufacturing Group allows all aspects of sanitaryware and brassware - including WCs, basins and bidets - to be incorporated to create stylish bathrooms without any exposed pipes or awkward pipe boxing.

The ultra-flexible range of Easi-Plan frames removes the margin for error during installation and speeds the process without compromising quality. Once in place, the hidden pre-wall fixing system is easily boarded out to provide a sound and level surface onto which to tile with the minimum preparation.
more


Hafele's latest kitchen accessories directory now available to download or order

* Hafele-kitchen_directory.jpgHafele's latest kitchen accessories directory now available to download or order.

Showcasing the latest innovations in kitchen storage, stylish waste management and ventilation, it boasts over 1,000 kitchen fixtures and fittings and provides everything trade professionals and kitchen studios need to make high-end kitchen designs - including flexible systems for accessible kitchens.
more


Christian Smith takes on national account controller role at Whirlpool UK Appliances

* Christian-Smith.jpgWhirlpool UK Appliances has promoted Christian Smith to national account controller, responsible for AO.com. Christian joined the appliance giant almost seven years ago and has held various sales roles there, initially being responsible for the laundry category.

He has also held a role within the small domestic appliance team, responsible for the category's approach to the UK market.
more


Granite Transformations COO Danny and pal Bernie attempt Cook Strait world record

* swim.jpgDanny Hanlon, chief operating officer of the Trend Group's international Granite Transformations home improvements franchise, will celebrate his new year relocation from the UK headquarters in Tunbridge Wells, Kent to the corporate head office in Miami, Florida, in an unusual - not to say hazardous, fashion.

He will form part of a two-man relay, charity fund-raising team attempting to set a new extreme swimming record for crossing New Zealand's 26km (16 mile) wide Cook Strait, notorious for its immense tidal flow, icy water temperatures and occasional encounters with sharks.
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Kitchen manufacturer fined after worker's hand was caught in machinery

Northampton luxury kitchen manufacturer, Bespoke in Oak, was sentenced on Tuesday after a worker had two fingers amputated following an industrial accident. The incident occurred in October 2014 when the worker caught his dominant right hand on a revolving cutting block.

Northampton Magistrates' Court heard that the cutting block provided was not suitable for use in manual mode on a single-end toning machine. The machine was not guarded correctly and there was access to dangerous moving parts. Also the company had failed to adequately train the worker or supervise him sufficiently to use the woodworking machine.
more


The KBzine Archive Search

We keep an extensive archive of news stories and product information that have featured in past issues of The KBzine. If you would like to run a search of the The KBzine web site using the search tool below please just go ahead by entering in the name of the person, product or company or any other key words that you are looking for.

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How to contact us at The KBzine:
Jan Hobbs
Publishing Editor
Email:[email protected]
Tel: +44 (0)1372 811 307 
Mobile: 07980 288 373

 

 

 

 

John Austen
Publishing Director
Email:[email protected]
Tel: +44 (0)1580 755 863
Mobile: 07766 707 888
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People

New marketing appointment for Aqata

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With immediate effect, premium British shower enclosure manufacturer, Aqata, has appointed Kayleigh Priestley to the position of marketing executive.
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Marketing

Success for Grohe Work Smarter Tour 2015

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Grohe is celebrating the success of its 2015 Work Smarter Tour for installers, which took place in May and July. Over the two months, the company welcomed 800 industry visitors to its mobile showroom - the Cube - in over 21 locations around the UK, including two major trade shows, Installer 2015 and PHEX.
more


Literature

New Pier bathroom furniture collection optimises bathroom space

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Combining modern design with superior functionality, the new Pier furniture range from Bauhaus offers a practical solution for washrooms of any size.
more



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