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Edwin Loxley’s Joe Cavani points out that Kevin McCloud does have a point about pricing!
Published:  09 February, 2011

I agree to a certain extent with some of Kevin McCloud’s comments in his new book. We live in a society where we not only have freedom of speech but also a free market economy; Kevin can say what he likes and some kitchen manufacturers can charge vast amounts of money based on brand perceptions rather than actual substance - you can’t have it both ways.

Is an Audi better than a VW although they share the same engines, interiors and look very similar? I am sure Kevin appreciates that it’s as much about the brand kudos and experience as it is about the actual quality.

However, a high gloss modern looking kitchen from one of the DIY sheds costs six times less than a high profile European brand - which to the lay person, looks similar and is made from the same materials. Quite often, the reason for this over inflated price tag is that the dealer hides excessive margins, appliance discounts, high fitting costs, the cost of exotic worktops - and the chancellor’s lump - within the price. The result is furniture with a mid-market build quality and a premier division price tag.

Perhaps some of the manufacturers and their retailers for whom he struck a paranoid nerve, need to take an honest look at the quality of their offerings and pricing structure and refrain from using the cabinets to subsidise the sale of appliances and accessories?

Will we all still watch Grand Designs? Yes. Will Kevin McCloud’s comments affect sales? No.”







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