I predict a tough year ahead but by continuing to focus on our niche market and our white glove service of providing individual extraction solutions for each customer I anticipate sales growth from Westin Design’s innovative products to be launched at KBB Birmingham 4th-7th March 2012- feel the magic!!

Comment by Ann Phillips, Sales and Marketing Manager,Westin Design

There is no doubt that 2012 is set to be a challenging year and consumers will be extremely mindful of how they spend their money. In terms of tapware product design, in 2012 we’ll see the softer aesthetic coming through with a desire for smaller taps and simple, paired back interfaces.

Comment by Vicki Newsome, Senior Product Manager, Methven UK

Despite the tough trading conditions in 2011 Siemens Domestic Appliances enjoyed solid growth both in terms of revenue and volume.  Consumers are becoming more receptive to the environmental message and this is reflected in the growing popularity of our energy-efficient appliances.   Consumers are now, generally speaking, far more careful with their money and as a result we believe they are choosing to buy appliances that offer great value for money over the life of the product.

Comment by Paul Tyler, Sales Director, Siemens Home Appliances

Blum found 2011 tough as did many businesses in the K&B sector, but the quality, diversity and range of products and services they bring to the market helped them maintain a steady trading momentum. A major highlight of 2011 was a lot of early morning rugby – although with England, Ireland and Scotland all making premature exits there were a few low-lights as well!

In 2012 Blum will be improving their ability to tailor support to suit each manufacturer’s requirement. However, through a newly created specialist retailer support team, they will also be able to offer help and training through the entire supply chain. Roll on the Six Nations!

Comment by Vicki Newsome, Senior Product Manager, Methven UK

Comment by Mark Richardson, MD Blum UK

I think 2012 will be when people will spend more time at home rather than going out and they will learn to use their kitchens more. We have seen a strong growth in the use of wine cabinets in the kitchen and this tells us that people are entertaining more at home.

Comment by Danny Lay, Sales Director, Caple

From a business perspective, 2011 has been a challenging yet successful year as we unveiled a complete re-brand of Vogue (UK) Ltd, which also coincided with the release of our latest brochure and the launch of a new range of innovative designs. On a lighter note, as a British manufacturer of towel rails and radiators it was rewarding to have been able to share a rare taste of community spirit on the day of the Royal Wedding.

Comment by Steve Birch, National Sales Manager, Vogue (UK) Ltd

The highlight for 2011 has been the rapid rise of our Malmo handle-less ranges - there is something extremely gratifying about seeing such a wide range of customers pick-up and run with a product that is new to the market. This has been our fastest growing product ever, which is exceptionally pleasing, especially in such poor market conditions. 

Comment by Ben BurbidgeManaging Director, Burbidge

The drop in house building activity over the past five years had a knock-on effect throughout the home products market and I’d be foolish to pretend this will be sorted in 2012. However, kitchens and bathrooms are still selling in large numbers and we see consumers and retailers focusing on the stability and long-term performance of products to ensure the best possible value.

Comment to Richard Fitzmaurice, Marketing Manager, Ellis Furniture

Comment by Ann Phillips, Sales and Marketing Manager,Westin Design

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