KBzine: the original kitchen and bathroom industry e-news - since 2002
3rd April 2019
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International News
Products Free up kitchen space with Fonda hob/extractor combination from Blanco by Gutmann
Perfect for small or large kitchen design schemes and flexible in terms of installation and location, the Fonda sits quietly and discreetly in a streamlined, functional space. Beko launches AutoDose Connected Dishwasher
Launched at ISH this year Equal explores the fusion between the organic shapes found in nature with the architectural lines present in an urban environment. ViClean-I 100 combines purism with technology and comfort
ViClean-I 100 boasts clear lines and a minimalist look, accentuated by the ultra-flat toilet seat. Add to that the intuitive use and convenient shower functions and the new ViClean-I 100 becomes a subtle centerpiece in any purist bathroom. LDL to offer L&S Italian lighting range
LDL is delighted to be the official UK distributor and to represent such a well-established and innovative brand. |
I came across an interesting press release this week and have been wondering whether any organisations in this sector run schemes such as this or whether they're considering doing so...
The survey of 1,096 UK workers by the workplace incentives and rewards provider, encompassed employees from different age groups, genders and industries and revealed that 52% of UK workers in the trades industries and 50% in retail would feel more motivated to work hard and 20% would increase their performance if their employer introduced a points-based rewards and bonus system. The technique works by setting small rewards for desired actions and then inviting workers to repeat that behaviour, which they do in anticipation of the same result, and 26% UK workers in the trades industries said they would work harder to unlock rewards and bonuses in this way. There are also clear softer benefits of gamified rewards systems, with the perception amongst workers that this would also increase their happiness at work and make them feel more engaged with their company, while making work more fun. "In SMEs, finding the budget for a rewards scheme can be tough, but gamified rewards can be more flexible in some ways and they don't have to involve large budgets," says the company. "While some might think these kinds of rewards are more complex to implement, this isn't necessarily the case. As we can see from the survey data, and the sheer number of workers who said that the implementation of a gamified reward system would make them work harder, the cost of implementing this kind of rewards could soon be recouped by the increased productivity employers would benefit from." I've always been someone who does my best at whatever I've set out to do - whether it be a personal task or work-related, but I can see that we're not all made the same. And with UK Plc's productivity levels being renowned for being low these days, I'm thinking that this type of scheme may well be worth investigating... Yours,
This Week's News
BMA says a voluntary label and changing consumer habits is best way to save water The Bathroom Manufacturers Association has responded to a recent statement from Sir James Bevan, chief executive of the Environment Agency, on ways to reduce average water consumption in England from 140 litres per person per day to 100 litres, by claiming that a voluntary - not a mandatory - water label is the best solution. BMA CEO Yvonne Orgill said: "Whilst the Environment Agency is right to raise this issue and we support its efforts, the BMA does not believe that a mandatory water label scheme and controls via building regulations will lead to the required changes in consumer behaviour. A bathroom mirror isn't just a mirror anymore now it's loaded with so much style, choice and technology. An illuminated mirror has therefore become a real must have for any new bathroom. Trade rewards scheme launched by online builders' merchant A leading builders' merchant has launched a new trade arm offering rewards for customers of its specialist online superstores. Trade customers of cmostores.com will be able to benefit from the company's new loyalty programme which offers a wide range of rewards from luxury holidays to supercar experiences, or they can opt for an annual rebate if they prefer. Having seen almost 50% growth last year, cmostores.com is now having a major impact on the trade market. Nuance bathroom wall panelling celebrates new patent with new dedicated showroom Bushboard, the renowned worksurface and bathroom panelling manufacturer, has secured a patent for its innovative, trim-free waterproof bathroom panelling system, Nuance. Invented by the Bushboard team, the Nuance brand leads the way as a more aesthetically pleasing and easier to install alternative to tiling. Nuance is a 100% waterproof, trim-less wall panelling system available in a range of innovative decors. It's cleverly designed to look virtually seamless thanks to its smart jointing and preformed edges. Cosentino Group announces another record breaking financial year The Cosentino Group has enjoyed another record breaking financial year, maintaining its leadership position in the global market.
The organisation has continued the expansion of its sustainable business model in international markets, the diversification of its products and distribution channels, as well as the creation of jobs. Throughout, the Group has continued to emphasise innovation and the importance of the circular economy. Königquartz - 28 colours to keep kitchens on trend With a pedigree in supplying top quality materials with a top-quality service, Königstone is proud of its growing range of quartz worktops: Königquartz. 2019 Statement of Intent from Rotpunkt In the wake of the Brexit vote for EU withdrawal, award winning designer and manufacturer of quality German kitchen furniture, Rotpunkt, is fortifying its market position with a statement of intent for 2019/2020. With the sole aim of minimising the possible impact of Brexit for its UK retail network, Rotpunkt has invited over 200 of the finest KBB retailers to its headquarters in Germany throughout Q4:19, so it can demonstrate its latest developments set to provide stability for its dealers and significant opportunities for new growth in 2020. LDL prioritises training and customer service LDL has declared its mission to prioritise training and customer service. Recognising the crucial importance of comprehensive product knowledge, the company is now running three product training sessions each week in the new dedicated design room at LDL's headquarters in Glossop. As LDL's managing director Simon Ogden points out: "Exceptional product knowledge is what sets us apart. We take great pride in sharing that expertise with our customers, assisting them with practical advice and clear and concise answers, whenever and however they need it." RangeMaster to exhibit at Euronics Showcase 2019 Rangemaster will be exhibiting at this year's Euronics Showcase, which will take place on 7th and 8th April 2019 at the NEC, Birmingham.
During the event, the manufacturer will display a wide range of its appliances, from range cookers to fridge freezers and induction hobs to extractor hoods, providing visitors with an extensive overview of the company's trade offering. KBSA experts to meet consumers at Grand Designs The Kitchen Bathroom & Bedroom Specialists Association has announced that two retail members will be presenting at Grand Designs, which takes place at ExCel, London, from 4th - 12 May. Keith Myers from The Myers Touch and Robert Guinan (pictured) from Jacob Roberts Interiors will be presenting in the Design & Build Forum, where visitors can find dedicated advice for every aspect of their home renovation or build. Keith will be speaking twice on Saturday 4th May and again on Wednesday 8th May on 'Creating Kitchens with Light Space and Laughter'. Reduce water waste with InSinkErator Over two billion people worldwide are still living without access to safe water in their own homes, however in the UK, each household needlessly and unintentionally wastes gallons of water every day. InSinkErator is encouraging consumers to think more about the water they waste and offers consumers solutions to reduce water waste in the home. IDS hires two new members in marketing team expansion IDS has expanded its marketing team by hiring two new members, Paul Ricci as the digital marketing coordinator and Megan Abbotts as marketing assistant. "We're excited to be expanding the marketing team with the additions of Paul and Megan - particularly as this year IDS celebrates 20 years of business," says John Bagshaw, managing director. "It's a great opportunity to look forward, invest in talent and find the best ways of supporting our 17-strong branches nationwide to deliver the best service to customers. Increasing our marketing output is just one of the ways we're doing this." 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. How to contact us at The KBzine:
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BMA announces date and venue for 2019 Conference
Entries now open for KBSA Designer Awards 2019
Unified Water Label can help combat climate change
Yvonne called for the industry to support the UWL, in response to the Committee on Climate Change's 'UK housing: Fit for the future?' recently published report. Literature
Karonia updates Mistral worktop brochure
New Dealer Inspiration brochure from Blanco is beautifully illustrated
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