Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

Slate shower tray from Cumbria

March 22, 2022

Kudos has introduced a slate effect finish into its Connect2 shower tray collection. The eye-catching dark grey tray features an exclusive surface pattern, taken directly from a piece of locally sourced slate, to ensure an authentic finish.

There’s a growing trend for adding colour and textures into the bathroom space and this natural slate effect is particularly relevant as the tray is made in the Kudos factory just outside Kendal in the Lake District, an area known for its use of slate in construction.

Whilst the finish may be slate grey, the new Connect2 tray is manufactured in the same acrylic capped ABS filled with a structural resin bonded stone, so maintains all the strength and durable benefits of its material. It is both slip and stain resistant and contains an anti-microbial additive to inhibit the growth of microbes including bacteria and mould.

As with other Connect2 trays, it retains a super low profile when installed, standing at just 35mm in height and is guaranteed to avoid standard joist spans thanks to the positioning of an offset dual waste outlet, allowing the installer to choose the waste free from obstruction to connect. The tray may have to be rotated 90 or 180 degrees (dependent on shape) to accommodate the fixed joists, but once set, the installer simply uses the blanking plug provided to seal the unused waste and plumb in the hi-flow waste and trap, avoiding any need to lift the tray off the floor. If both waste holes are free then both wastes can be connected for even faster water removal. A reinforced, magnetically secured waste cover, that’s easily removed for cleaning, then sits neatly over the waste blanking plug to complete the installation.

The collection of Connect2 trays, which come in a choice of slate effect, high gloss white or slip resistant SR finish in white, are now available in a broad range of 28 different sizes from 800mm square to 1700x900mm rectangle including seven new sizes launching in April to expand the quadrant and mid-size rectangular options.

Kudos Shower Products Ltd has been designing and manufacturing shower products at their Cumbrian facility since 1999. Their portfolio includes shower enclosures, shower trays, over bath screens and wet-room solutions sold via KBB showrooms and merchants across the UK. Please call on 01539 564040, email to marketing@kudosshowers.co.uk or visit their website at kudosshowers.co.uk.

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Showerwall joins Virtual Worlds

March 22, 2022

Among the many Showerwall solutions now available on Virtual Worlds are panels in its Laminate and Acrylic collections. The new offering makes it simple for retailers to include the latest trends for Terrazzo, minimalist prints, and classic tile designs into their bathroom designs. Visually appealing and waterproof, the wall panelling also allows for grout-free installation and these high-performance surfaces are easy to clean and maintain.

Having no grout lines means that there is no space for dirt, mould, or bacteria to linger, making this a popular choice for consumers looking for a hygienic solution. In addition, the large format panels are flexible for use around the home, from the shower to behind basins and to create feature walls with a wow factor.

See showerwall.co.uk for more details, or for more information on Virtual Worlds call 01908 663 848 or visit www.virtualworlds.co.uk

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Roca Group moves forward with its sustainability roadmap

March 22, 2022

Roca has launched a water efficiency plan as part of its sustainability roadmap. Together with Veolia Water Technologies Ibérica, Roca has established two production processes, one for vitreous china and another for faucets, located in Settat (Morocco) and Eskisehir (Turkey), where two pilot schemes will be carried out as part of a global plan to audit the integrated water cycle in the Group’s factories.

This project has been put in place with two goals in mind: reduce water stress in the areas where Roca Group operates; and preserve this resource by optimising its circular use. Vitreous China and faucet production processes are the ones that require a greater amount of water. It is for this reason that the company will start its pilot project in these areas.

The circular water strategy

To achieve these objectives, and advised by Veolia Water Technologies Ibérica, Roca Group has implemented a circular water strategy. It consists of reducing its use in all phases of the manufacturing process: avoiding the use of fresh water sources when it is not strictly necessary; recycling it; digitalising and controlling its use; segregating it; quantifying it and giving it a value; reusing it and adapting its quality to each particular use in order to start the cycle again.

In other words, the project is based on the 6 Rs system: Reuse, Recycle, Recover, Regenerate, Replenish and, as a consequence, Reduce fresh water consumption.

A phased plan

In the first phase, Roca Group plans to carry out an audit of the two main factories in the vitreous china and faucet production processes using these as pilots: Settat (Morocco) and Eskisehir (Turkey), also located in two of the most water-stressed areas of the planet. This stage will be carried out during 2022, with two physical audits and subsequent recommendations.

In a second phase, the recommendations and improvements in processes and equipment obtained from the pilot carried out in Settat and Eskisehir will be scaled up to the rest of the factories. There will then be a subsequent draw-up of the final roadmap and its implementation, with the aim of moving towards water neutrality within five years.

A company with a sustainable tradition

The Roca Group says it is a company that is aware of the environment and its resources. For this reason, it develops sustainable technologies and products that make it possible to save water and energy, reducing the environmental footprint that its products and their use may generate.

In addition, Roca Group says it promotes solidarity initiatives through the We Are Water Foundation with the aim of contributing to solve problems arising from the lack of water and sanitation in the world.

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HiB launches contemporary yet timeless Bellus illuminated mirror

March 22, 2022

Elaborately patterned illumination and striking design are at the heart of the new Bellus mirror, launched by award-winning bathroom brand HiB. The latest edition to HiB’s growing range of bathroom mirrors, Bellus has been developed with impactful style in mind, taking that timeless, ornate look and giving it a contemporary edge.

The integrated colour temperature changing technology allows the user to alter the light from a cool white to a warm white, ensuring that Bellus offers soft lighting for a relaxing atmosphere as well as cool light ideal for practical use. Hidden beneath the surface of the mirror is a heated pad, which reduces condensation on the mirror’s surface. The chamfered diffuser on the back of the mirror creates a delicate, ambient glow across the wall which offers a sophisticated finishing touch to the space.

Available in two sizes, 60cm and 80cm, the Bellus mirror can be used as a striking feature across the home and with touch free operation, can remain smudge and fingerprint free.

Ash Chilver, HiB Sales Director said: “Bellus is a real showstopper, the LED illumination is such a striking feature that will stand out in the bathroom. Because it is a contemporary approach to a timeless, ornate mirror, Bellus would look equally at home in any room of the house, including the bathroom.”

For more information about the Bellus mirror and other products that have recently been launched by HiB visit https://www.hib.co.uk/

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REHAU invests with Decorative Panels Lamination

March 22, 2022

REHAU’s furniture division has adapted its business strategy to circumnavigate the fallout from Brexit and Coronavirus and ensure its UK customers continue to receive its high-quality edgeband, surface and tambour door solutions.

Reportedly 2021 was another successful year for REHAU as the company continued to build awareness around its kitchen, bathroom and furniture solutions. With its diverse product portfolio, the company expanded its reach in the market, working with large original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), small and medium and manufacturers, design workshops and fitters.

To further address this demand in 2022, REHAU is now collaborating with reputable manufacturer and distributor Decorative Panels Lamination, based in the North of England. This new partnership will allow REHAU to grow its UK presence and facilitate the more efficient supply of materials across the country.

National sales manager Scott Williams says: “We’re thrilled to be working alongside Decorative Panels Lamination who have long established themselves as leaders within the sector. Having been in the industry for over 100 years, manufacturing and distributing laminated sheet materials throughout the UK, the company are the ideal choice for REHAU’s furniture division. Decorative Panels Lamination will be holding large amounts of our stock, including our popular and award-winning Rauvisio noble matt range, meaning the supply will be readily available for UK-based manufacturers and fitters.”

Although some businesses have suffered because of the pandemic and the UK’s exit from the EU, REHAU was able to defy the odds and grow its UK furniture business significantly last year. This was against a backdrop of general trade decreasing by 23.1% in the first quarter of 2021. Further supply chain disruption and a global recession has meant that imports from the EU has remained stagnant with figures for December 2021 remaining flat.

“Essentially, we aim to reduce lead times through this new partnership, ensuring we continue to meet demand following the challenging past few years for the industry. Already in place is our distributor Waivis, specialising in tambour doors and edgebanding, and while this remains sufficient for smaller bespoke orders, it is now necessary to adapt our approach to meet growing demand. With seamless kitchens on trend, our customers will now be able to find our all-in-one surface, edgeband and tambour ranges directly from one single source. These are exciting times for REHAU, as partnering with Decorative Panels Lamination will allow us to further develop new and existing relationships with our customers here in the UK.”

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Lakes takes a walk(in) on the dark side

March 21, 2022

Lakes, a leading manufacturer of innovative showering spaces, has launched the Onyx Collection, a striking new matt black range.

The Onyx Collection is stylish and modern, featuring a matt-black anodised finish, to create a high-impact design for a dramatic showering space. Black as a statement trend has been an increasingly popular modern choice for bathrooms, and Onyx is perfect for those who want to incorporate the latest interior design trends into their bathrooms.

The Collection is extensive and includes walk-ins, hinged panels, quadrants and slider doors, so there is an option to suit nearly every bathroom space. As with all Lakes’ products, Onyx also benefits from Lakes’ unique ‘no-quibble’, guarantee.

Managing Director Bev Brown says: “Demand for matt-black showering spaces is proving to be an enduring trend and we are delighted to offer customers our stunning Onyx collection. We have also added two new ‘Horizon’ showering spaces with distinctive matt black horizontal stripes to really make a statement.

“Inspired by the Crittall-style popularised in the art deco movement of the early 20^th Century, Horizon comprises two walk-in showering spaces, incorporating a pair of horizontal stripes, creating a natural horizon in the showering space.

“The high-visual impact of the design of both Onyx and Horizon will help refresh showrooms and drive high-value sales for our nationwide merchants and stockists.”

All Lakes products are backed by a unique guarantee. To add Lakes’ new Onyx Collection in to your display, call 01684 853 870. Download the brochure here: www.lakesshoweringspaces.com.

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RAK Ceramics to acquire Germany’s Kludi Group

March 18, 2022

RAK Ceramics, a significant lifestyle solutions provider, has announced today the signing of a Share Purchase Agreement for the 100% acquisition of KLUDI Group (including 49% of KLUDI RAK Joint Venture), at a total valuation of EUR 39 million.

KLUDI Group is an established leading German-based company engaged in manufacturing high-quality kitchen and bathroom faucets and showering systems. Nearly 100-years old, the company has a manufacturing footprint across Germany, Austria, Hungary and the UAE, which incorporates cutting-edge and innovative German-engineering technologies. KLUDI Group’s total revenues amount to around EUR 120 million, with sales across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

In 2007, RAK Ceramics entered into a joint venture with KLUDI Group, to establish the brand “KLUDI RAK”, for the production and sale of fittings in the Middle East. Over the years, this partnership has grown and proved to be successful and profitable, recording impressive growth and sustainable margins solidifying as such the company’s foundation to endure recent challenging market conditions.

The strategic acquisition of KLUDI Group represents an opportunity for RAK Ceramics to strengthen its growing existing core businesses across German and European markets; the brand is also anticipated to complete RAK Ceramics suite of products and grow its offering to include taps and faucets, strengthening as such KLUDI brand exposure in RAK Ceramics core markets. The transaction is expected to realise operational manufacturing synergies, leveraging both companies’ plants presence across Europe, the UAE and Asia.

Abdallah Massaad, Group CEO, RAK Ceramics said “This acquisition of KLUDI Group aligns to our growth strategy and commitment to strengthen our presence in core markets and focus on core products. It provides RAK Ceramics with the opportunity to spearhead our expansion into European markets and enhances our positioning in projects across the sanitaryware and faucets business. The acquisition, built on a long-standing partnership and a shared vision, opens up new opportunities for KLUDI Group as we aim to develop this historic and established European faucet brand further by funding its strategy and driving forward modernisation and digitalisation of the brand. This will also provide an opportunity for KLUDI Group to leverage on RAK Ceramics network to push further faucets value.”

Julian Henco, Group CEO, KLUDI Group said: “I am confident that this transaction will be extremely beneficial to all parties involved, including customers and shareholders. KLUDI Group is now a more robust, world-class taps and faucets brand that is well-positioned to capitalise on RAK Ceramics’ extensive network to expand our product offering to markets that would not have been possible otherwise.”

The transaction is conditional upon regulatory approval, and both parties are working closely to finalise the transaction which is scheduled to be implemented by May 31, 2022.

Pictured: Abdallah Massaad, group chief executive of RAK Ceramics, left, with Julian Henco, group chief executive of Kludi Group.

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Exports Minister visits Roman

March 17, 2022

Shower designer and manufacturer, Roman, has announced it has recently welcomed Mike Freer, the Minister for Exports, and Paul Howell, the MP of Sedgefield to its headquarters in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.

The visit involved a tour of Roman’s 400,000sq ft manufacturing facilities, infrastructure and showrooms – whilst discussing product compliance & testing; the global shipping crisis; and very importantly, the timing of Britain joining the to the Trans Pacific partnership (the CPTPP).

Roman is one of the largest employers in the constituency and were keen to highlight inequalities in International trade tariffs and the evolving UKCA product marking system – Paul Howell has been a great ally in supporting these issues.

David Osborne, CEO of Roman, commented: “It was an honour for the Minister to take the time to visit our headquarters today involving a factory tour and a discussion on our International business. We gained some valuable insights into forthcoming legislation – most importantly for Roman, the UK’s accession into the Trans Pacific Partnership which will significantly assist our exports into the Asia Pacific region.”

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Barwick Bathroom Distribution enters a new era as it changes ownership

March 17, 2022

Barwick has announced that the business has received investment from TPA Capital, a UK mid-market private equity investor. The news follows John and Michael Barwick’s decision to retire from the industry. The business will continue to operate under the stewardship of the existing management team, led by MD Gary Campbell.

The team says they intend to build on the strong foundations laid under John and Michael’s ownership as the business moves to the next chapter of its growth story while remaining under independent ownership.

The investment comes on the back of a period of reportedly unprecedented growth and the company says the partnership with TPA will ensure Barwick is in a prime position to continue to capitalise on the opportunities evident in the market.

Ravi Aujla, investment director at TPA Capital, states, “We are delighted to be partnering with the team at Barwick during a very exciting time for the business and industry. Barwick has an enviable list of customers and suppliers supporting the business and, along with the highly skilled management team, we are looking forward to seeing the business continue to grow for the benefit of all stakeholders. In our review of the market, we came to see that Barwick is best in class, with an enviable brand position which we are confident will continue going from strength to strength.”

Managing director Gary Campbell adds, “I’m both filled with respect and excitement. I’ve known the Barwick brothers for over 25 years, and it was an honour to join the company 6 years ago. For the brothers to navigate an independent business through an ever-changing UK economy for nearly 40 years, and be successful, is no mean feat and the legacy that Michael and John leave is one to be admired. The strategy behind this investment was to ensure Barwick retained its independence, free from any group or trade pressures, ensuring our only focus is what’s best for our customers whether that be retail or merchant. The message for all – be that employees, suppliers, or customer – is business as usual! We very much look forward to building on our success alongside TPA as well as the suppliers and customers we are fortunate to partner with.”

Barwick Bathroom Distribution LLP: t 01274 687555, e sales@barwick.co.uk, w barwick.co.uk

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Duravit AG aspires to be a climate-neutral business by 2045

March 17, 2022

The ceramic manufacturer Duravit has announced it aims to be a climate-neutral business around the world by 2045.

“I believe that society as a whole shares responsibility when it comes to sustainability, for me that explicitly includes companies such as Duravit,” said Duravit CEO Stephan Tahy. The family-run company from the Black Forest, operates in over 130 countries, aspires to use CO2 offsetting as little as possible.

As part of the comprehensive package of measures, the manufacturing facility in Hornberg says it already uses electricity generated exclusively from renewable energies. Solutions, some of which were developed in-house, are designed to continue to reduce energy and resource requirements in the production process, waste heat is reused consistently, and water is treated. PEFC-certified furniture production that adheres to principles of sustainable forestry as well as “local for locals” production methods that ensure shorter transport routes are further key aspects of the portfolio of measures.

The company says despite already using materials made from natural raw materials, the challenges Duravit faces are significant. Stephan Tahy is all too aware of this: “The heart of our operations – ceramic production – is a very energy-intensive business. And even though we have a long road ahead of us, we want to achieve our climate mission – not only for ourselves, but above all for future generations.”

A disruptive transformation in ceramic production is needed if Duravit is to realize its ambitious climate objectives.A key milestone for the company is to reduce CO2 by 20 percent by 2030 compared to 2019 levels. Duravit is determined to accomplish its mission. “We are in the process of questioning old certainties and investing in finding and implementing new ways of achieving a sustainable future,” underlined Tahy.

Potential measures are currently being reviewed and evaluated – including sourcing electricity from renewable energies around the world, combining oxygen and green hydrogen to reduce emissions, as well as powering electric kilns with green electricity.

As Tahy explained: “At the present time, the move away from fossil fuels isn’t just an ecological concern, but also a conscious political decision. To quote the German Finance Minister: ‘Renewable energies free us from dependencies. Renewable energies are thus energies of freedom’”.

Additionally, Duravit says it is assessing how it can increase its use of recycled materials and is commissioning studies on binding CO2 emissions locally – just a small part of the sustainability package that Duravit is constantly reviewing and expanding.

The climate mission is a component of Duravit’s overarching sustainability strategy, which is aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Alongside the measures relevant to climate change, the core of the strategy is made up of the action areas “water”, “resources”, and “people”. Duravit reviews the effectiveness of the measures initiated and adapts, expands, and enhances them wherever expedient. “It’s important that we exemplify a culture of learning in which mistakes can be made.

“And we are learning how to improve so we can achieve our goals. Teamwork is the key factor here,” said
Tahy. The Duravit CEO asserts he has no doubts that ceramic – a sustainable material that has proved its worth over millennia – has a place in a climate-neutral future, too.

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