Kitchen specialist, Franke, has recently appointed two new distributors – Leaker Direct and Cooper Callas. Both distributors offer Franke’s full range of sinks, taps, hoods and kitchen solutions, and Franke is confident that both companies will deliver high service to meet the exacting standards of Franke.

21st January 2010. Novellini, Europe’s largest producer of bathroom and showering products has announced the appointment of Ken Mercer, formerly regional contracts manager (SE) for Roman Ltd, as sales manager SE for Novellini UK Ltd. Ken brings 15 years experience of the industry and swells the national sales force at Novellini to twelve.

The KBSA has announced that Scotland’s leading independent kitchen retailer, Kitchens International, is the latest company to join the association.

Kitchens International is an award winning retailer with four showrooms in Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Broxburn. They won a national KBB award for Master Kitchen Retailer in 2008 and designer Claire Lovell has recently been shortlisted for the Young Designer Award for Kitchens 2010.

“2010 will be the year when water efficiency in the bathroom really takes off,” says Yvonne Orgill, chief executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association.

“Our members have been pushing hard over the last eighteen months to ensure that their portfolios are at the leading edge of water efficient bathroom design. They are now well placed for the expected rapid uptake of these eco friendly products. Now is the time for bathroom retailers to get involved and register with the scheme, for free, to show the public that they have the products and can offer advice and guidance on water efficiency in the bathroom.”

IDS has unveiled a smart update to its vehicle livery that underpins the company’s dynamism with its use of bold colours in conjunction with its iconic tree symbol. The design clearly communicates its flooring, worktops, panel, laminates and solid surfacing products, as well as contact details with the new IDS Webstore emblazoned across the back doors of its 100-strong fleet.

Zehnder Retail Division is strengthening its operation in the UK merchant and showroom market with the introduction of the Zehnder brand to the retail market. This will incorporate the current Acova product portfolio from 1st February 2010.

Zehnder will focus on distributing innovative, well designed, towel radiators and heating products through bathroom and kitchen showrooms and the merchant network. The exciting portfolio will incorporate products previously sold as Acova as well as new additions from the Zehnder range. Bisque, acquired by ZGUK in 2007, will continue to offer design-led products to premium showrooms under its own brand name.

Award-winning BSH Customer Service now offers dealers individually branded business cards for use by customers of its prestigious Bosch, Siemens and Neff appliance brands.

The cards provide brand-dedicated phone numbers and website addresses for several customer services, including arranging an engineer visit, ordering replacement spare parts and purchasing accessories.

20-20 Fusion, the UK market-leader in design and visualisation software has appointed Jade Allen as area sales manager for the North of England.

Jade comes from a sales background, having worked for a Manchester-based PR agency where she learned the value of nurturing strong business relationships with clients and customers.

Metris, PWS’ premium contemporary kitchen collection is now available in Northern Ireland from McAuley Kitchens who have selected Metris for their flagship premises in Belfast. With over 50 years experience, McAuleys have the largest dedicated, independent kitchen showroom in Northern Ireland and have chosen the ergnomically designed peninsular and fitted curve designs for their Metris display area.

Market leading software provider, EQ Software (formerly know as EasyQuote) has strengthened their sales team with the appointment of Justin Dubiel as Area Sales Manager for the South West. Dubiel will be responsible for developing relationships with existing customers and expanding the brand and client base within his region.

While you are selling the kitchen or the bathroom don’t forget to add value to the sale by selling the tiles. Don’t just limit this to the rooms you are dealing with. Why not get clients to extend the tiling throughout the ground floor of the house. This is the perfect time of the year to sell floor tiling.

Manufacturers such as Four Seasons which explored new avenues and continued to invest in new products and its brand despite the tough economic situation are looking forward to what is hoped will be a much healthier year ahead in 2010.

Metris, PWS’ luxury contemporary kitchen collection has been met with unqualified praise for its quality and innovation and 12 months on from the launch, the network of outlets has grown to 31. In recognition of PWS’ commitment to Metris, Richard Gates has been appointed to the new position of Metris Brand Manager.

The Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA) has increased its selection of benefits for members through its LogBuy system.

LogBuy allows KBSA members to access a web portal from their dedicated area of the KBSA website, where they can then obtain discounts on many products and services. The additional new discounts include cheaper HP computers and Viking stationery, plus cuts on many more business costs.

At the forefront of water conservation initiatives, Impulse Bathrooms welcomed the Building Regulations Part G which were due to come into force in October. This would limit potable water usage on new build to 125 litres per person per day (compared with an average current consumption of 150 litres).

Adding to its strong health and safety record, in October IDS recorded one million working hours without a single lost time accident (LTA), representing 15 months or 320 working days.

When the Mayor of London speaks a lot of people listen and in his recent pronouncement Boris Johnson pleased members of the BMA with his unrestrained support for the Water Efficient Product Labelling Scheme.

A new training course in renewables for specifiers, housebuilders, teachers, architects and installers has been introduced at the AGA Training Centre at Telford. Delivering an overview of current renewable systems including solar, heat pumps, biomass and wind power, the course is aimed at those who want to increase their knowledge in this ever-expanding industry.

Specialist in decorative furniture hardware, SFA Marketing, has been appointed as the exclusive sales agency in UK and Ireland for Union Knopf.

Geman-based Union Knopf is one of Europe’s leading decorative hardware manufacturers for the furniture industry and boasts an exciting range of cabinet handles.

First class customer service and complete trust in the performance of the brand’s materials, is why Aquastone choose Ultra Tile time and time again.

Aquastone, specialists in tiling installations within both the commercial and domestic sectors, have recently completed a 2000m2 tiling project in Tunstall. The project, part of the prestigious Alexandra Park development, was a new DW Sports Fitness Club which is a two storey complex consisting of a fully equipped gym and a sports retail store.

Mirco Tschenett has tested two spiral saws from RotoZip, fighting off worldwide competition to become World Champion Wall and Floor Tiler at the 39th Worldskills International, held in Shizuoka, Japan. Established in 1950 as a platform for vocational skills across global industries and designed to encourage higher standards, the competition attracts skilled tradesmen from every industry.

Shower enclosure manufacturer, Simpsons, has increased its distribution power by adding three new 7.5 tonne trucks to its fleet.

The new trucks, which increase Simpsons’ fleet to a total of 21 vehicles, significantly improve our loading capacity and will operate nationwide.

The Tile Association Awards are the “Oscars” of the wall and floor tile industry. Each year the industry rewards the best people, the best companies, the best projects and the best products with a prestigious TTA award. They are, simply, the best!

Market leading furniture door and components manufacturer BA Components has announced the successful purchase of BLP from administration.

Established in 1990, BA Components has grown steadily to become a major industry player and this acquisition is a logical step in its progression.

In 2009 VOLA launched three new products. Two of these products, the new VOLA towel warmer, T39 and the new VOLA free-standing shower, FS3 won the 2009 GOOD DESIGN Award presented by The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design and

The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.

Aqua4ma, a new product by Kudos Showers, has been launched to save up to 30% on the cost of creating a fully watertight wet room without compromising on style or functionality, whilst also being 75% less time consuming to install.

Typically innovative, VitrA’s Delphi shower/bath is an engaging design that fits a bathroom corner with angular edges while the external dimensions partially follow the “body” curves of the internal space. A chrome pillar hinges a glassed half shower door which is also curved to replicate the ceramic base and gives a sleek, elegant finish to the whole installation.

The Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA) held a number of regional meetings throughout the UK, which were run in conjunction with this year’s BCG xl Tour. KBSA members were invited to their nearest meeting, which took place throughout October 2009.

Metris by PWS has been awarded the Designer Magazine’s 2009 Gold Award for product innovation for its contemporary, ergonomic curved kitchen system. Barry Stubbs accepted the award from architect and TV presenter George Clarke, host of the awards ceremony at Lord’s Cricket Ground on 6th October. Over 350 invited guests were brought together to witness the event - a ‘who’s who’ of the kitchen industry and media.

Introducing the friendly face of Aaron Green, Planit Fusion’s talented new Support Officer.

With a wealth of IT and software experience at his fingertips and a helpful, friendly attitude, newly appointed Support Officer Aaron Green is already an essential member of the Planit Fusion support team.

MHS Radiators has supplied 5,219 sections of its classic cast-iron Ionic and Burlington radiators, as well as 120 Carat flat panel radiators, 114 towel rails and 340 sets of valves to one of the UK’s most luxurious spa hotels – Luton Hoo. In addition MHS also supplied Carat radiators and electric towel rails to The Warren, the stable block and the golf complex which form part of this beautiful and impressive hotel and golf complex on the Hertfordshire/Bedfordshire border.

Jason Reed has been appointed as the new Regional Sales Manager for prestigious UK shower specialist Aqata.

James Hardy joined the Kaldewei UK team as Sales Representative on December 1st, responsible for the South West of England and Wales. This latest appointment is significant as all retail trade accounts up to now in the region have been managed by sales agents. From his base in Poole, Dorset, James’s role will be to provide a dedicated sales focus for Kaldewei across the entire trade customer base including independent bathroom retailers, merchants and key distributors.

Roca is delighted to announce that the ground-breaking W+W was a Gold Winner at this year’s Product Innovation Awards – the new product category for the Design Awards 2009.

The Design Awards is an ongoing scheme to promote excellence in design in the home, organised by the publishers of Designer magazine and supported by over 30 leading UK suppliers. The Product Innovation Awards, which are at the heart of the scheme, celebrate and reward products that demonstrate real innovation, and highlight the vital role of manufacturers in driving innovation in design in the home.

The recent upgrade to the Water Efficient Product Labelling Scheme (WEPLS) has received a warm welcome and rave reviews from all sectors of the bathroom industry. The relaunch, timed to coincide with the Annual Bathroom Conference, is set to be the catalyst to take the industry forward in its development of bathroom products which are both stylish and water efficient.

Colin Seaton is returning to Planit Fusion as its new Area Sales Manager (South).

Having first joined the kitchen and bathroom industry in 1976, and stuck with it ever since, Colin Seaton will be a familiar name to many. In fact, prior to a seven year foray running his own business as an import agent for kitchen and bathroom products, including a CAD system, Seaton spent four happy years working for Planit Fusion.

Following hard on the heels of the addition of two new sales team members, Impulse Bathrooms has now invested in larger premises in line with its ambitious growth plans for the next 5-years.

REHAU’s furniture products are the focus of the polymer group’s re-launched website occupying the home page at www.rehau.co.uk with a series of inspirational images. To celebrate this, the company is running a competition to win £50 in High Street vouchers.

Hüppe’s international sales management team, including UK General Manager Mike Kelly, joined their eastern European colleagues in Moscow recently to celebrate the opening of Hüppe’s new Russian showroom at which the company’s plans for 2010 were also revealed.

Aqualisa has won the coveted ‘Best Packaging of a New Product’ award for its Midas 100 shower and its accompanying fixing bracket at this year’s UK Packaging Awards. The prestigious awards were held last month at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London, with Aqualisa proudly triumphing over a shortlist of contenders that included household names.

Actress Tina O’Brien has teamed up with Indesit to celebrate the launch of its new Prime range of appliances. New research from Indesit shows that the average Brit wishes they had an extra 107 minutes of fun in their day and Tina is on a mission to show you how you can ‘Make the Most of Your Prime’.

The Tile Association are so confident of their members’ workmanship that they have introduced an insurance backed warranty scheme especially for TTA fixers working in the consumer sector. Because the scheme is insurance backed, if the TTA Fixer were to go out of business and The Tile Association Warranty has been provided, the consumer will have an insurance policy to rely on.

Power tool specialist RotoZip has supplied precision cutting solutions to a firm of professional Tilers working on a 5-Star Luxury Cruise Liner.

German-based company Fleisen Verlege Union, provide specialist tiling services on cruise liners worldwide and have used a range of RotoZip power tools and accessories for their latest project involving repairs to a swimming pool and honeymoon suite.

Two CDA dishwashers and one integrated washing machine have been chosen as Recommended Appliances by the Energy Saving Trust.

The CI394 integrated washing machine, VW80 integrated intelligent dishwasher and integrated slimline dishwasher CW448 from CDA now display the Energy Saving Recommended logo, a clear sign to consumers that these appliances are the most efficient in their category and offer valuable savings on the use of energy, detergent and water.

As the managing director of one of the UK’s leading kitchen manufacturers, Ben Burbidge is used to going the extra mile in order to stay off competitors and remain at the forefront of the industry. Next March, however, he will face a challenge of a different kind as he prepares to take part in the Dallaglio Cycle Slam.

Crosswater took part in the recent "Wear it Pink" day, part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and raised £350!

The team, based at Crosswater's headquarters in Dartford, Kent, wore pink to support the charity; some members of the team really got into the spirit of the day by dressing up in pink cowboy hats and Fame-inspired leg warmers!  

Coventry based bathroom manufacturer Showerlux UK has pledged its support to Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance (WNAA) by sponsoring a charity clay pigeon shoot and black tie fundraising dinner.

The charity event, held recently in Northamptonshire, had an ambitious target of raising £10,000, however, due to generous support from local companies such as Showerlux UK the event raised a staggering £11,250 for the WNNA.

Fired Earth, one of the UK's leading premier kitchens, bathrooms and interior design brands, has launched a new and exclusive website for trade customers. Giving access to exclusive trade-only deals, as well as technical help guides and newsletters and a prestige project section, the website can be reached at http://trade.firedearth.com.

System Six Kitchens based in Exeter jumped at the chance to join a Devon charity fund-raising campaign spearheaded by Deborah Meadon of the Dragon's Den TV programme, called The Dragon's Challenge.  

Malcolm Scott has been announced as the new corporate vice chair of the Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA).

KBSA CEO Graham Ball welcomed him on behalf of the board and said that he would make a positive contribution towards moving the Association forward.

Planit Fusion has welcomed high-end appliance brand Gaggenau to the Fusion software, with the inclusion of its 2009 appliance catalogue.

Recognised dealers using the Fusion application can now enhance their customers' kitchen designs by selecting from Gaggenau's exclusive range of built-in ovens, microwaves, hobs, extractors, dishwashers and cooling appliances at just the click of a button.

When Barratt Homes was looking for a shower enclosure suitable for the bathrooms of two luxury £1.5m penthouses on the Capital East development, Simpsons was able to provide the perfect solution.

In a drive to increase the specification of its natural stone products and roofing slate, Cumbria-based Burlington has unveiled a dramatic redesign of its popular web site.

Leading kitchen designers love Parapan® and no-one more so than award-winning kitchen company Mowlem and Co. who recently used Parapan® in their re-designed London showroom.

With an increase in VAT just around the corner the last couple of months of 2009 are destined to be the best time ever to buy a new bathroom suite and the BMA is urging its members to make the most of it with one last push, selling their bathrooms at bargain- basement prices.

Seven colleagues from Carron Phoenix recently ventured forth on a memorial walk for Nicola Mateer, marketing co-ordinator at the company who died from cervical cancer at the untimely age of 32 in May this year. They raised £8,050 from friends, family, customers and suppliers which will be split between Cancer Research and Diabetes UK at her family's request.

Kermi were delighted to receive the Gold Award for their inspirational new Diga Shower Enclosure range presented by Architect and TV Presenter George Clarke.

Diga is designed to fold away against the wall when not in use providing total freedom in the showering area with the added benefit of it being really easy to clean.

Michael Powell, Managing Director of Blum UK, won the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the tenth annual Designer Awards ceremony held at the famous Lord's Cricket Ground in London.

Hansgrohe has re-launched its Aquademie showroom and launched a newly built Aquatech training facility at its head office in Esher, Surrey.

A highlight of the newly-styled Aquademie is the first UK display of the Hansgrohe Axor Urquiola complete collection including bath, basin and heated room divider.

Domestic & General has announced the winners of its renowned Total Excellence & Quality (TEQ) Awards. Five white goods repairers from across the UK have been recognised at the 2009 events held in Scotland, Reading and Leeds, for outstanding commitment to customers. The Award is based on the responses to over 420,000 questionnaires distributed to consumers after a repair was carried out.

The Tile Association has published an advisory note on travertine in response to the high volume of the product currently available on the UK market.

Travertine, although often sold as a marble, is technically a limestone and is characterised by the presence of voids within the matrix which can vary hugely, both in the quantity in which they occur and in the form that they take. Traditionally travertine has been used to clad walls and within the marble trade has been considered a difficult material for flooring as the weakness that results from the voids can cause problems.

Triflow Concepts has been awarded Gold in the Product Innovation category at the Design Awards 2009 for its revolutionary new kitchen and bathroom taps designed by Zaha Hadid.

Mike Kelly has been appointed General Manager of Hüppe UK Limited to succeed Rod Goodier, who is retiring as Managing Director at the end of the year after more than 20 years with the company.

Hundreds of children enjoyed decorating tiles donated by Tile Depot, the UK's largest independent tile and stone retailer, at three Playdays held over the school holidays in the London borough of Hillingdon, Middlesex.

With 14 stores across London and the South East, Tile Depot was ideally located to supply the tiles to Hillingdon Play Association as just one of the activities on offer at the free Playdays, which proved extremely popular with over 2,500 people attending and children of all ages from across the borough and beyond taking part.

GROHE is delighted to announce that its Partner Club initiative has been a huge success with showrooms, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response. The GROHE Partner Club (GPC) was launched in early 2009 and continues to gain momentum.  It is a cash incentive scheme designed to support and reward GROHE'S most dedicated and knowledgeable showrooms. 

The KBSA has confirmed that they will be joining corporate member BCG XL on their Big Tour 3 exhibition in October.

Redesigned to reflect the major business PJH Group is today, its new corporate web site has been developed to cater for all its customer groups offering more information and a greater understanding of the scale of all PJH's services.

The team at Kent-based Umbermaster is celebrating after scooping PWS' national award for Second Nature dealer of the year. Facing stiff competition from over 200 PWS Second Nature dealers across the country, Umbermaster rose to the challenge taking top honours as the overall national winner.

Roca has announced the name of the winning project of the 3rd edition of the International Contest Jump the Gap, chosen from 382 project presentations and coinciding with the opening of the 100% Design Exhibition in London. The chosen project was Breathing Bathtub by the young Chinese designer Xi Li.

Martin Russell has been appointed as Managing Director for Kaldewei UK, based at its head office facility in Surbiton, Surrey. With a wealth of skills and a proven commercial track record, Martin also brings a fresh perspective to the business coming from outside of the bathroom sector.

BA Components has announced a complete upgrade of its On-Line BA Live service. With improved access and the facility to see the comprehensive BA product range in full colour, it is even more user friendly than before.

Leading bath manufacturer Victoria & Albert will be showing at KBB2010 at the NEC Birmingham in March next year - and promises some exciting new products and additions to the range.

Scalding, through the use of uncontrolled hot water, is an accident which can ruin lives.

Its devastating effect on the skin can be irreversible and lifelong scarring and disfiguration can result. In fact, almost 600 accidents and an alarming 30 deaths a year result from scalding accidents. You don't normally expect such terrible results from using a bathroom. Fortunately, scalding has come under the scrutiny of our legislators and from this month new laws will help prevent it.

Surface materials distributor IDS has just chalked up another impressive achievement in its Health and Safety record, for an entire 12 month period without a single Lost Time Accident.

Momentum for BCG's Big Tour 3 has stepped up a gear this year with a whopping 1600 retailers & merchants having already registered for the event, looking likely to make this year's tour the biggest and most successful yet.

Contractors have been shown how to find the best way to cut fuel costs, with ‘Six Golden Rules' produced by The Fuelcard People.

Prestigious UK shower specialist, Aqata, has appointed Nick Barton to the newly created position of Technical Manager. With a professional engineering background and over 30 years experience in a similar role for a leading bathroom manufacturer, Nick brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the position.

Impulse Bathrooms General Manager, Gary Hawkins, together with Logistics Manager John Green has recently completed 1,000 miles in 24 hours motorbike endurance challenge ride for charity.

Mira Showers has carried out a major overhaul of its Web site - www.mirashowers.co.uk - to provide retailers with not only more useful content but also quicker and simpler access to it. The upgrades include a dedicated area for the trade and new installation videos.

A consumer, let's call her Mrs Smith, plans to spend £25,000 refurbishing three bathrooms in her home. She chooses large format ceramic tiles and buys them from a TTA retailer but decides not to use their fixing services. She obtains a quotation from a contractor who can undertake both the sanitary ware installation and the tiling. The quotation is high, so Mrs Smith thinks that this means they are a good quality contractor and agrees to the quote.

Crosswater Holdings, which encompasses brands Crosswater, Simpsons and Bauhaus, has created a stunning new showroom in Dartford, Kent so that retailers, as well as architects and specifiers, can see and feel the exciting, innovative portfolios in comfort. Its easy location, just off the M25, means that it is accessible to all.

Specialist in kitchen technology, SFA Marketing, has been appointed as the exclusive sales agency in UK and Ireland for Gera Lighting.

German-based GERA is one of Europe's leading lighting system designers for the kitchen furniture industry, with customers including Bulthaup, Miele, Poggenpohl and EWE.

James Theobald's, the Maidstone based Kitchen and Bathroom Distributor has had one of its Kitchens chosen for the hugely popular UKTV makeover series ‘Love The Place Your In'.

The programme, hosted by top interior designer Gordon Whistance, shows homeowners how to get creative in their own homes by turning their existing home into the havens and sanctuaries they had always dreamed of.

As part of its drive to bring professional tradespeople the best range of business products in the market, FairTrades has teamed up with Simply Business, an online provider of professional business insurance, to offer great value Public Liability Insurance (PLI) and Employer's Liability Compulsory Insurance (ELCI).

Prestigious UK shower specialist, Aqata, has appointed Steve Gent to the newly created position of National Sales Manager. This significant step provides a dedicated sales focus at senior level within Aqata with a key responsibility for management of the existing team of 8 nationwide sales agents.

BA Components, bespoke frontal supplier and manufacturer of the Bella Kitchen & Bedroom Collections, has announced a complete upgrade of its On-Line BA Live service.

With a new showroom and a host of new products, Profile Showers certainly have something to shout about.

September sees Carron Phoenix reach a momentous milestone in the company's history, celebrating 250 years of Carron heritage at its Falkirk site in Scotland.

Omega Tiles & Bathrooms is one of Ultra Tile's official stockists, regularly purchasing a selection of paste, powder and grout products. Following the supply of a sales lead generated by Ultra Tile's marketing activities; Omega Tiles & Bathrooms was able to secure a substantial sale of Ultra Tile adhesives to J & A Tiling Services.

easyquote the KBB industry's leading supplier of business management software has appointed Alastair McPheat onto its board as a Non Executive Director.

Planit Fusion, the leading supplier of CAD software to the kitchen and bathroom sector, is hitting the road this autumn as it takes part in BCGXL's The Big Tour 2009, with regular demonstrations taking place throughout the roadshow enabling visitors to see the software in action.

Robert Lee Distribution Ltd, one of the UK's largest independent distributors of bathrooms, have appointed David Ground to the position of Sales & Marketing Director.

Refrigeration brand, Lec, is set to see one of its fridges light up the big screen after landing a starring role in the film version of best-selling book, Round Ireland with a Fridge.

The KBSA has launched a new insurance policy that will allow members to continue to provide 100% cover for all contracts signed since the cover was reduced on 20th May, when the original providers of the ConsumerCare Plus insurance HCCI withdrew from the scheme.

Water efficiency is in the spotlight nowadays and the use of water in our bathrooms has come under increasing scrutiny by our legislators. And rightly so. The Code for Sustainable Homes and Building Regulations Part G were recently revised and the decade-old Water Regulations are now under review.

Planit Fusion, the leading provider of design software for the kbb industry, is further bolstering its commitment to delivering a quality CAD product with the appointment of James Wilson to the position of Product Director.

Famed for its quality, craftsmanship and inspiring designs, leading manufacturer of kitchen frontals and accessories, Burbidge, is celebrating a quarter of a century in the British kitchen industry this month.

Putting the needs of its customers at the heart of its business, the latest Fusion Care seminars held by leading CAD software specialist Planit Fusion were incredibly well received by all who attended. As well as providing customers with the perfect platform to get to grips with the latest version of the market-leading software for the kbb industry, the seminars also gave Planit Fusion customers the opportunity to learn more about the fantastic new training programmes now available to them.

The Mereway Group of Companies are delighted to announce the release of their new fleet of greener trucks for their distribution network. Proud to operate their own fleet, Mereway have 11 vehicles across the Group, servicing all of the UK and Ireland.

To further strengthen its team, Ideal Bathrooms has recently recruited two new people who will bring experience coupled with fresh ideas to the company's sales support activities.

The Tile Association are so confident of their members' workmanship that they have introduced the TTA Warranty Scheme especially for TTA Registered Fixers working in the consumer sector. The Tile Association has used its power as the lead body for the industry to team up with a national insurance company who will back their fixer members' work.

All 150 bathrooms in the re-launched boutique Kensington Hotel in London, part of the prestigious Doyle Collection, have been fitted with demista^TM heated mirror pads. The additional luxury of having steam free mirrors in the stylish new bathrooms, allows guests to shave, do hair and makeup, with an unspoilt view at all times. The pads are very low energy consuming around 1p per day.

The latest brochure from Ceramic Tile Distributors (CTD) is now available as part of Planit Fusion's flagship software. The new Gemini brochure from CTD is the latest catalogue to be integrated into the software, enabling designers in kitchen, bathroom and tile showrooms to offer visual representations of tile applications to their customers. The style-driven catalogue imagery offered by Gemini combined with the powerful visualisation, design and layout tools associated with Fusion allows designers to create genuinely photorealistic visuals for their customers and to clinch that all-important sale.

BA Components, the leading bespoke frontal supplier and manufacturer of the Bella Kitchen & Bedroom Collections, have announced a complete upgrade of their On-Line BA Live service.

Always committed to supporting its dealer network and promoting their brands, BA Components have improved, updated and streamlined the very successful and popular BA Live interactive on-line facility. Now with improved access and the facility to see the comprehensive BA product range in full colour, BA Live is even more user friendly than before.

Euroline Sales & Marketing, the sole UK specialist importer for the premium Italian kitchen brands Barazza, Bertazzoni, La Germania by Bertazzoni and Falmec, is pleased to announce the appointment of Holly Smart as Communications and PR Manager. This newly created position forms part of Euroline's growth strategy and will allow the company to further enhance its brand positioning and support already rising sales.

This month Leaker Direct are about to launch their New Product Guide August 2009 and are pleased to announce that Franke sinks and taps will be added to their portfolio. Franke have secured their position as market leaders in their industry by providing kitchen specialists with a world-class range of sinks, taps and accessories. Leaker Direct are concentrating on giving kitchen specialists a high quality service and will stock the complete Franke range to give customers swift lead times.

The KBSA (Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association) has announced a new initiative that will help members appeal against their current business rating assessment, with average savings of 15% if the appeals are successful.

Bauhaus is taking to the road with its exquisite range of bathroom furniture. A new bespoke show van has been developed so that a selection of Bauhaus's products can be transported throughout the whole of the UK so customers can touch and feel the products.

Premier tile and sanitaryware manufacturer RAK Ceramics is delighted to be expanding its workforce by appointing a new Area Sales Manager.

A clutch of outstanding speakers have been lined up for this year's Bathroom Conference. More details have been announced by the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, who organise this increasingly important occasion.

Kohler Mira and Kitchen & Bath UK has appointed leading industrial designer Simon Browning to the position of Studio Director.

Trevor Herbert, Technical Sales Manager for LDL (South) Ltd, is to retire on 28 July 2009 after 46 years in the furniture fittings industry.

A Technical Working Group of The Tile Association in co-operation with Ceram has prepared a technical document, "Large Format Tiles in Internal Tiling". Every TTA member will receive one free copy. Members and non members can order additional copies by downloading the order form from TTA website at www.tiles.org.uk.

A pair of three-oven, custom-made, AGA range cookers are at the heart of BMI's newly opened International Lounge, BMI Number One Heathrow within Heathrow's Terminal 1.

A specially selected collection of 37 new tile designs, featuring technically innovative and stunning surface effects, has been brought together in the latest Craven Dunnill Renaissance brochure, just published. This latest collection reveals an emerging trend towards bolder and more dramatic style statements for mainstream tiles.

Despite the current economic climate Moores is forging ahead with the appointment of two new Area Sales Managers who will join Moores' newly-formed, fast-growing and dynamic Retail division. The appointment of Sarah Grew and Julia Chisholm will make the team even stronger and represents just one aspect of how Moores is shaking things up in these new and exciting times for the company.

At Robert Lee they obviously like to play as hard as they work. This May, they decided to join the fantastic "Race For Life" cancer research campaign. With crazy socks and ridiculous gloves the girls proudly strolled the 5 km course raising money for cancer research. Joining in with over 2,500 others participants.

Hobsons Choice, Swindon's premier retailer of contemporary interiors, played host to a customer open evening revealing a re-designed, innovative showroom featuring bulthaup's state-of-the-art kitchen systems and inspiring bathroom displays featuring products from suppliers such as Villeroy & Boch, Duravit, Dornbracht and Hansgrohe

For the second time in less than a year, Andy Sutton Business Development Director at IDS, has donned his running shoes for the British Heart Foundation.

Tony Wakefield and Gary Leigh have been appointed as new sales agents for the South West of England for Aqata, Britain's leading independent producer of shower enclosures. With over 25 years experience in the industry between them, Tony and Gary work together for the same agency where they have developed a well-established reputation across the South West region. Their role will be to increase Aqata's brand awareness with existing customers and develop new business opportunities by promoting the company's innovative range of quality shower enclosures, trays, showers and bathroom accessories.

Bristan has teamed up with the National Schools Partnership to launch an innovative new classroom pack aimed at educating primary school children about the importance of saving water.

According to a recent survey by leading kitchen manufacturer, Burbidge, the current recession has sparked a fast-growing trend for patriotism in consumption. While more than half (56%) of Brits questioned said they have always preferred to buy British, over two thirds (68%) are now even more inclined to do so as a result of the current economy.

The value of editorial press coverage for the Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA) has risen by 24% in comparison to the same period last year, according to recent figures released by the Association.

The country was swamped with political news in June so the publication of the Revised Part G of the Building Regulations was knocked from the headlines. But the new regulations are great news since they will help prevent almost 30 scalding deaths a year.

Kronospan has further strengthened its environmental credentials by achieving the CARB accreditation. The certification, awarded by the California Air Resources Board, demonstrates low levels of formaldehyde within products and has been awarded to the company's MDF range.

Last year Ideal Bathrooms acquired the Glasgow based bathroom products distributor Inline Distribution. The acquisition provided Ideal Bathrooms with the opportunity to envelop some new brands and to strengthen key markets and product sectors. Roca and Shades were two important brands that formed part of the Inline stockholding. Now, in keeping with their key brands philosophy, Ideal Bathrooms is delighted to confirm that these brands have been incorporated into its stock portfolio and are now available throughout the UK for all Ideal Bathrooms customers.

The Tile Association has organized a series of technical seminars to be given on two dates in July. For those in the South the seminars will be held at the offices of N&C Nicobond, Chadwell Heath on Thursday 16th July and for those in the North at the offices of Ceram, Stoke on Trent on Thursday 23rd July.

Hydropanel, Marley Eternit's dry construction building board, has been used to carry out remedial work on Matter nightclub in the O2 Dome.

Leading providers of showering and kitchens to the elderly and disabled AKW MediCare are pleased to announce that they now offer a lifetime warranty against manufacturing and material defects on all non electrical catalogued items.

In response to increasing consumer concern about hygiene in the home, Evo-Stik has launched anti-germ, a unique range of tiling solutions and sealants that kills bacteria and stops mould and fungi growth.

Hobsons Choice, Swindon's premier retailer of contemporary interiors, played host to a customer open evening to reveal a re-designed, innovative showroom featuring bulthaup's state-of-the-art kitchen systems. Also on show are inspiring bathroom displays featuring products from suppliers such as Villeroy & Boch, Duravit, Dornbracht and Hansgrohe.

Staff at shower designer and manufacturer Aqualisa dusted themselves down and rolled out the red carpet on Tuesday, May 26th when they welcomed HRH the Duke of Kent. The Duke's visit followed Aqualisa receiving a coveted Queen's Award for Enterprise last Summer.

George Letman has been appointed as Chief Executive of the Aqualisa Group.

Bathroom and kitchen retailers nationwide are welcoming the growing success of www.tilerworld.com The new free service bringing consumers and tilers together. By entering their location, consumers can call up a list of up to 20 trusted tilers in their area. They can then pick up to five and request quotes for tiling.

2009 is a very special year for PWS as it celebrates 100 years in business. This landmark in PWS' history celebrates its legacy of innovation and achievement, and offers the opportunity to define the company's development in the decades to come. The centenary coincides with the first anniversary of the new granite factory and the company's most dynamic and comprehensive product launch.

The Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA) has continued its investment in promoting the benefits of choosing a KBSA retailer by attending two national consumer exhibitions this spring.

We are delighted to announce that the GROHE Ondus Digital Bathroom Collection won Best Bathroom Product in the Grand Designs Awards 2009.

Dansani, the market leading brand in contemporary bathroom furniture design, is currently enjoying European sales success as well as UK growth, despite the economy, with some of the biggest orders they have seen for the last 15 years.

The award recognises the importance of the environment and sustainability within the tile industry. Sarah Rose, Instarmac's Marketing Manager, said: "We are absolutely delighted with the award win. The optimum use of materials and consumables is not a new concept but it is one that Instarmac has implemented and maintained successfully. To win the award for the second year running is an amazing achievement and one that we all feel very proud of."

The SMART System is the market-leading business and operational management software for the KBB sector. Endorsed by leading players in the industry, SMART is the system of choice for the professional business.

Last year Ideal Bathrooms acquired the Glasgow based bathroom products distributor Inline Distribution. This was an important strategic acquisition which gave Ideal Bathrooms an established distribution centre in Scotland, the chance to gain new customers, the opportunity to take some of the Inline brands to a national level and incorporated the valued and experienced staff at Inline, into the Ideal Bathrooms family.

Whitwell Hall Country Centre is an independent charity set up to educate less fortunate youngsters about the countryside and the environment and to help their development into socially responsible people

The bathroom has seen some remarkable changes in recent years. Shapes, styles and technology have all received attention from the designer's critical eye. Showering, in particular, has come in for radical treatment and shower enclosures are now more advanced than ever before.

Introduced into the UK in 1999 Parapan® enjoys an enviable reputation as the number one choice for high gloss acrylic. Always a firm favourite with leading kitchen companies, Parapan® is now specified by innovative designers in a wide variety of unusual and imaginative applications both domestically and commercially.

It's great news all round as PWS' new granite factory exceeds targets in all areas, with an exceptionally strong performance from the template and fit teams

The news that the Communities and Local Government department announced last month, changes to building regulations that will enhance hot water safety and efficiency measures for all new homes has delighted bosses at Staffordshire based Intatec, the anti-scald bath tap, shower and valve manufacturer who have campaigned for the introduction of anti-scald legislation for more than five years.

David Hill has been named Managing Director, Kohler Mira and Kitchen & Bath UK, with effect May 2009. He reports to Jeff Mueller, President, Global Faucets; with a ‘dotted line' to Giorgio Pitzurra, President, Kohler Europe.

Victoria & Albert's completely refitted display vehicle is off on a tour of Europe and the UK. The van will be visiting southern England in June, then on to France and Switzerland in July and finishing in Northern England and Ireland in August and September.

When you sell a bathroom or kitchen you haven't completed the job until you have sold the tiles. Tiles can add significantly to the overall value of the sale and if you include all possible ancillary items, which the customer will have to buy from somewhere, you could increase the tile element of the sale by as much as 50%.

Number 1 cooking brand Belling has gained a place in Guiness World Record History alongside 100 UK school children, and celebrity, Liz McClarnon, after setting a new world record for most people cooking simultaneously.

Recognised cooling specialist Lec, is officially the fastest growing refrigeration brand in the UK combined cooling and freezing sector.

The Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialist Association (KBSA) has welcomed a number of new members over recent months, who are reaping the benefits of association membership.

Knauf Aquapanel is the latest in a long line of top performers to pass through the doors of one of London's most famous hotels, the Savoy. The iconic hotel celebrates its 120th anniversary this year at the end of a massive 18 month restoration that includes installation of Knauf Aquapanel in the new bathrooms of its 268 luxury rooms and suites.

Leading international fittings manufacturer Blum will use the occasion of Interzum 2009 to unveil an exciting and long awaited new innovation in hinge technology. In line with the exhibition slogan of "Perfecting Motion", the new product will accompany important other new developments including the introduction of the automatic opening system SERVO-DRIVE coupled with their superlative AVENTOS lift systems for overhead cabinets. The Blum stand at Interzum is now a "must visit" for any manufacturers wishing to distinguish their products with the most advanced new furniture technologies.

Gary Longstaff has been promoted to the newly created position of Manager of UK Distribution & Merchant Sales for Carron Phoenix. Gary is a familiar face in the industry with more than ten years service with Carron Phoenix as an area sales manager and has extensive experience of both the retail and contract sink / tap markets.

In such times of financial turmoil it's always reassuring to hear about home grown business success stories like British bathroom fittings and accessories manufacturer Croydex, which celebrates its 90th birthday this year. Ninety years of profitable business means the company has weathered economic storms, recessions and even two world wars! Such an illustrious history provides solid foundations for pushing towards even greater heights of success in the future.

The design of bathroom furniture has come a long way in recent years and staff at the BMA are always delighted to see the latest trends when one of the BMA members launches a new range.

Despite all the prophesies of doom and gloom which abound, there are those who do not let such negatives get in the way of progress.

Ideal Bathrooms has begun an investment programme updating its delivery fleet to enable them to further improve their customer delivery service for their retailers around the UK. Fifteen new vehicles have just been delivered - 9 new 31/2 tonne Sprinter vehicles and 6 new 71/2 tonne lorries.

Hometyre, the mobile tyre fitting service, has selected The Fuelcard People as its new fuel cards partner to help franchisees reduce and control vehicle running costs.

In this world of built-in obsolescence, Franke is nevertheless endorsing its high quality craftsmanship, innovation and design by extending the guarantee against manufacturing on all sinks to a remarkable 50 years.

Caesarstone Quartz Surfaces has launched a brand new website www.caesarstone.uk.com designed specifically for the UK and Ireland featuring a wealth of information, including new colours and a comprehensive product gallery with a ‘view similar products' function. www.caesarstone.uk.com offers clear and easy to find information and includes ‘success stories', an extensive colour collection section and technical product information making the process of choosing CaesarStone simple.

Building on the growing success of its granite template and fit expertise PWS has extended the service to timber worksurfaces.

The Tile Association Awards are the Oscars of the wall and floor tile industry.

Best Use of Tile in a Domestic Environment recognises the impact that a well designed project can have in an individual home. This award was sponsored by Bathroom & Kitchen Update Magazine

The Four Seasons brand looks set to go from strength to strength following its acquisition by Moores Furniture Group in February of this year. As part of the company's ambitious plans for the brand, Moores is delighted to report that production of Four Seasons kitchens has moved from the old BGH premises in Bolton to Moores' state-of-the-art factory in Wetherby, where the first Four Seasons products have just rolled off the production line.

Tile Shapes, one of the UK's leading ceramic tile stockists and installers, has changed all its tile backing boards to Hydropanel - Marley Eternit's new multi-purpose fibre cement board.

Leading bathroom, kitchen and heating distributor BCG has announced the dates for its 2009 Big Tour and aims to build on the success of previous Big Tours which in 2008 visited venues across the UK.

Aquatalia is a brand new UK-based company offering a stunning range of designer-look shower enclosures made and designed in Italy. The launch comes at a time when the UK is crying out for fashionable Continental-style showering products with an affordable price tag.

Range cooker specialist Britannia is enhancing its portfolio of hoods adding two ultra modern designs to the collection whilst renaming the existing range, swapping the old code references to more customer- friendly names inspired by Italian music terms.

Robert Lee's new website (www.rlee.co.uk) really is an invaluable tool to both customers and suppliers and includes links to supplier websites for the latest products and industry news(COSHH, WRAS, Building Regs), plus a Recruitment section and press page.

Ray Walls has joined the Ideal Bathrooms board of directors as New Business Development Director. Formerly Commercial Director at southern based bathrooms distributor Farmiloe and Farmiloe, Ray is an experienced industry professional and is very well known within the bathrooms business having spent 40 years working within our industry.

Vogue (UK) Ltd - The Heated Towel Rail Company recently expanded its Sales & Marketing team with two new appointments.

Instarmac Group - the renowned spearhead of the Ultracrete, Ultrascape, Ultra Tile and Ultra Floor brands has officially been named in this year's TIME TOP 100 companies to work for!

It would be ridiculous to start talking about ‘green shoots of recovery' since, as we know, the UK is well into its recession and it will be some time before we climb out of it. But it is a fact that over recent weeks some members of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, particularly those in the consumer RMI sector, have reported some increase in commercial activity. Other members, those exhibiting at the recent ECObuild in London, say that they have had a "great show."

Roca, is excited to announce the launch of its new, redesigned website, www.roca-uk.com.

tc bathrooms has defied the economic downturn by reporting increased sales in 2008. This was achieved whilst also moving into their new, purpose-built, state of the art, 200,000 square foot premises in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire.

Metris®, PWS' new premium, contemporary kitchen brand has achieved registered design status on 4 key curved elements within the collection. The culmination of 2 years' product research and development, the beauty of the 1200mm corner system is that unlike other curved units on the market, this one size creates three distinctive schemes. It's because of this originality and distinguishing feature that registered design status has been awarded.

Leading Polish appliances manufacturer, Amica, has been honoured with a Product of the Year award for the second year running, by the Polish edition of Reader's Digest.

In-House Inspired Room Design marks the 5,000th Schüller kitchen sold in the UK. Kitchens 24-7 sold the Schüller kitchen to a customer at its Leicester showroom on the 2nd March 2009. Sukhvinder Channa received a certificate and a bottle of champagne from In-House Area Manager Paul Cameron.

Craven Dunnill, the major ceramic tile distributor and retailer, has appointed Steve Whitehurst as Sales Director. He joined the company in 2007 as Marketing Director and has since focussed his efforts on delivering market-driven promotional tools including a new website, retailer catalogue, commercial prospectus, and targeted PR and advertising activity. As Sales and Marketing Director Whitehurst will work closely with Craven Dunnill's Managing Director Peter Howells, who previously directed the Sales function.

Use of tile in the domestic environment can make the difference between an average and an awe inspiring home. This award recognises the impact that a well designed project can have in an individual home.

Andrew Lawson has joined Baumatic as its Commercial Director, following an illustrious career in the industry that spans 25 years. His CV includes an MBA in Business and stints as field manager at Currys, sales director at Siemens and, most recently, director of sales for the Kitchen Retail Channel at Hotpoint. With experience like this, Andrew will be an invaluable member of the team and Baumatic looks forward to a long and happy business partnership with him.

Showerlux UK has revamped its website - www.showerlux.uk.com, to give it a fresh new look and compliment its stylish range of minimalist and contemporary shower enclosures. Simple to navigate and with an array of new functions, the website is tailored to the needs of its end-users, installers and retail customers.

When it came to selecting a contemporary kitchen design to juxtapose the distinctive Queen Anne style architecture of his 1870's home, furniture designer Rod Ward knew he had a tough criteria to meet.

Bathroom specialist, Simpsons, has three new delivery vans added to its fleet of vehicles which travel the length and breadth of the UK.

The Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA) is urging members to continue with the same level of advertising through the credit crunch in order to survive, and has introduced a number of measures to help its members do this.

With so much gloom about maybe now is the time to try to relieve it all and introduce a little more colour into our lives! 

In a strategic move, Moores, a highly successful part of the $12b, Fortune 500 Masco Corporation, has entered the independent retail kitchen market, acquiring some product stock from PWC who is managing The Bernstein Group through administration. Under the terms of the deal Moores will be able to use the Four Seasons and Lifestyle brand names.

A major nationwide distributor of quality fittings for the UK fitted furniture industry has been formed by the linking together of Bristol-based Lord Distribution Limited and Glossop-based OML Limited.

Bathroom specialist, Crosswater, has added a new display vehicle to its fleet of vehicles, which travels the length and breadth of the UK.

Appliance specialist CDA has been awarded IS0 9001 accreditation.

Last year brought unprecedented floods to the UK and many home owners are actively looking to minimise the risk of damage to their homes.  Some house insurers insist on replacing existing floor coverings with tile when compensating for flood damage.  You can actually make a floor completely waterproof so the water doesn't seep into cellars or foundations.   Waterproofing systems can be used in areas that may suffer water ingress such as hallways or for the whole of your ground floor.   When you are selling that bathroom why not talk about the ground floor for added sales and profit.