Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

Fitzroy of London has unveiled the latest evolution of its signature Gosfield Collection, now enhanced with a full range of Taps, Showers & Water Controls. The launch marks a significant step forward in the brand’s mission to deliver cohesive, design-led bathroom solutions that balance elegant aesthetics with outstanding performance.

With the introduction of these new products, the Gosfield Collection becomes a truly complete and unified offering whether for accessible or standard spaces. Featuring beautifully crafted deck and wall-mounted taps, contemporary handheld and overhead shower solutions, shower arms, precise shower mixers, and advanced infrared sensor taps, the range has been thoughtfully designed to ensure a seamless water management solution across all bathroom elements.

Each product within the Taps, Showers & Water Controls range reflects Fitzroy of London’s commitment to quality and innovation. Engineered for reliability and ease of use, they provide precise water flow and temperature control, supporting comfort and safety in both residential and commercial environments. All products are WRAS-approved and Regulation 4 certified, meeting stringent requirements for water efficiency and compliance.

A selection of customisable finishes ensures versatility, giving architects and designers the creative freedom to tailor schemes without compromising visual consistency. With its understated styling and inclusive functionality, the expanded Gosfield Collection delivers a timeless solution and reliable performance at every touchpoint. Whether designing for a luxury hotel, office washroom or leisure facility, Gosfield is crafted to meet the highest standards, ensuring seamless integration and durability.

Bradley Culmer, Business Development Director, commented:

“With the expansion of the Gosfield Collection to include Taps, Showers & Water Controls, we’re responding to a growing demand for design continuity, in form and finish across every element of the bathroom. Our clients want products that combine technical precision with timeless aesthetics and this launch allows them to specify complete schemes with confidence. It’s a natural progression for Gosfield and reflects our ongoing commitment to thoughtful, design-led innovation.”

With expertise in inclusive design solutions for today’s modern world, Fitzroy of London creates spaces which are truly functional and aesthetically pleasing, whilst honouring individual needs. The new Taps, Showers & Water Controls are available now – enquire through the website today

www.fitzroyoflondon.com

Multipanel delivers the perfect fit for tall bathrooms – 2.7m waterproof panels

Waterproof bathroom wall panel brand Multipanel is expanding its range to include a new 2.7m panel height, designed to meet the growing demand for full-height solutions in properties with taller ceilings.

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Ideal for older buildings such as Victorian and Edwardian homes, where ceiling heights often exceed modern standards, the new 2.7m panels make it easier to achieve a seamless, grout-free finish from floor to ceiling, without the need for horizontal joins or trims. The added height offers a cleaner aesthetic while saving time on installation and improving waterproofing integrity.

The 2.7m panels are available in both 598mm and 1200mm widths and feature Multipanel’s proprietary Hydrolock® tongue-and-groove system for a flush, discreet join. Fully waterproof and grout-free, the panels are easy to clean and quick to install, making them a practical alternative to traditional tiles.

The new format is available across Multipanel’s core collections, including Tile and Pure, giving retailers and installers even more flexibility when designing or upgrading bathrooms with higher ceilings.

Backed by a 30-year warranty and made in Edinburgh using over 90% UK-sourced materials, Multipanel panels continue to lead the way in bathroom wall innovation, providing a smarter alternative to traditional tiles.

For more information, to order samples, or to find your local distributor, visit www.multipanel.co.uk

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Comedian Diona Doherty to host Bathroom Association Gala Awards

The Bathroom Association has announced that Diona Doherty—the multi-talented comedian, actress, and writer—will be hosting the Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony at this year’s Connect Conference, taking place at the Grand Hotel, Birmingham, on Tuesday, 17 September 2025.

Diona will guide guests through a night of celebration and recognition as we honour the winners of the Thirty-Under-Thirty Awards and the Sustainability Award, spotlighting the rising stars and sustainability champions making waves in the UK bathroom industry.

As a comedian, actress, writer, theatre producer, and voiceover artist, Diona Doherty brings energy and charisma from every angle of the entertainment world. She has appeared in hit shows including Derry Girls, The Blame Game, The News Quiz and Have a Word. She is a regular on Times Radio and has performed across the UK in comedy venues and theatres.

Diona’s 2023 debut comedy tour was met with phenomenal demand, and this year she was back on the road with her brand-new show, Get Your Pink Back.

From acting in Soft Border Patrol, Give My Head Peace and Penance, to writing hit stage plays like Bridesmaids of Northern Ireland and The Hen Do, Diona continues to break boundaries and delight audiences with her wit, warmth, and originality. Her involvement in this year’s Gala Dinner promises an unforgettable evening.

A night not to miss

With less than two months to go, tickets for both the Connect Conference and the evening Gala Dinner are selling fast. The Association is urging attendees to book now to avoid disappointment as accommodation is also filling quickly.

“We’re excited to have Diona Doherty joining us to celebrate our award winners, who all richly deserve recognition for their outstanding achievements across the industry,” said Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the Bathroom Association. “Her passion, humour and energy will make this a night to remember.”

For more information or to book tickets, visit the Connect Conference website.

Hansgrohe launches Zesis S basin mixer range – a quiet, minimalist mixer

Hansgrohe has introduced the Zesis S mixer range – a design-led collection set to elevate bathroom spaces with a focus on calm, simplicity, and sustainability. With its clean lines and tactile design, the new series brings both style and substance to the basin area.

Available in refined chrome and bold matt black finishes, Zesis S features a minimalist aesthetic shaped by soft curves and cylindrical forms. The design language is clear: subtle sophistication that endures, offering a modern solution for the specifier or design-conscious homeowner seeking a cohesive, calming environment.

A tactile approach to everyday beauty

Designed with human interaction in mind, Zesis S embodies a balance of form and comfort. The soft edges and uncluttered silhouette have a tranquil, grounding presence. An integrated aerator ensures a smooth, gentle water flow, supporting not just visual elegance, but sensory well-being.

The effect is immediate: a basin mixer that not only looks refined but also enhances the atmosphere of the entire bathroom.

Sustainability without compromise

At the heart of Zesis S is EcoSmart+ With flow limited to just four litres per minute at three bar pressure, the mixer uses around 20% less water than existing EcoSmart models from Hansgrohe. This efficient performance is delivered without compromising user experience, making it ideal for environmentally responsible specifications.

CoolStart technology ensures that only cold water flows when the handle is in the centre position, to prevent heating the water unnecessarily when performing minor hygiene rituals.

Easy cleaning

In addition to a reduced, clear design, hansgrohe Zesis offers an uncomplicated cleaning process. Small radii, the absence of a base and the use of high-quality materials make the cleaning routine as convenient as possible.

A comprehensive solution

Zesis S is more than just a product range; it offers a comprehensive solution for the harmonious design of the entire bathroom. The collection comprises various models, including a freestanding bath mixer, which make it possible to achieve a uniform and stylish design in every detail. In this way, hansgrohe Zesis S transforms the entire bathroom into a timeless place of serenity.

Grant Westfield showcases innovation at InstallerSHOW 2025

Grant Westfield, the manufacturer behind the Multipanel and Naturepanel brands, brought live demonstrations, new product launches, installer training, and on-stand giveaways to the Installer Show last month, drawing in professionals from across the KBB sector.

Visitors to Stand 5C40 saw live, full-scale demos of the brand’s patented Hydrolock® joint system. Presented by Grant Westfield’s in-house team, the sessions showed how the tongue-and-groove design simplifies installation and allows for a 6mm tolerance. The system enables panels to be fitted directly over old tiles or uneven surfaces, reducing prep time without sacrificing finish.

The stand also introduced MultipanelU, a free, accessible training platform. It supports installers through the full process – from surface prep to final finish and aftercare. Installers keen to boost efficiency and maintain quality found the platform especially valuable.

A ‘spin the wheel’ prize draw added extra buzz to the stand. Attendees had the chance to win branded merchandise, high street vouchers, and a headline prize worth £5,000 in Multipanel products (T&Cs applied).

Also unveiled at the show was the latest Multipanel brochure. Available to view on the stand, it features the newest collections, practical installation advice, and inspiration for residential and commercial spaces.

Grant Westfield products also featured in HAUS at InstallerSHOW – a full-sized, two-storey sustainable home built inside the NEC. Naturepanel in Warmia Walnut and Multipanel White Grey Metro were specified across the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. The display highlighted the environmental benefits and design flexibility of the products in real-life interiors.

Pimberly announced as Gold Sponsor for the Connect Conference 2025

The Bathroom Association has announced that Pimberly, a leading provider of cloud-based Product Information Management (PIM) and Digital Asset Management (DAM) solutions, will be a Gold Sponsor of the upcoming Connect Conference 2025.

Taking place on September 16–17 at the luxurious Grand Hotel in Birmingham, this flagship industry event will bring together bathroom sector leaders for two days of inspiration, strategy, and collaboration under the theme “Connect the Dots.”

Following the Association’s recent rebrand to reflect its efforts to unite the entire bathroom supply chain, this year’s focus is on uniting manufacturers, retailers, designers and merchants to drive sustainable growth through partnership, innovation, and shared insights.

Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the Bathroom Association, commented: “We’re grateful that Pimberly is a Gold Sponsor of Connect Conference 2025. Their innovative approach to product data and digital transformation aligns with this year’s theme of fostering industry-wide connection. Having only recently joined the Association as an affiliate member, their support will enhance the value of the event and offer attendees new insights into driving digital success in a fast-evolving market.”

Pimberly’s sponsorship reflects their continued investment in the bathroom manufacturing industry, where they already support renowned brands like Abode, VADO, and Aqualisa. With roots in Manchester’s thriving tech ecosystem, Pimberly has become a trusted name in eCommerce technology, helping manufacturers deliver rich, consistent product experiences across every sales channel.

Craig McCalley, managing director at Pimberly, added: “We’re delighted to be Gold Sponsors of Connect Conference 2025. The bathroom sector continues to be a strong area of growth for Pimberly, and this event presents an excellent opportunity to engage with forward-thinking manufacturers. As product data becomes central to omni-channel success—from digital platforms to physical retail—our mission is to empower brands with the AI-driven tools they need to scale efficiently and stand out in a competitive, design-led industry.”

The Connect Conference 2025 promises a rich agenda of keynote speakers, including Alex Depledge and Anna Leach, a special presentation by Tim Smedley, author of The Last Drop: Solving The World’s Water Crisis, as well as expert panel discussions, interactive sessions, and valuable networking opportunities for all participants.

As a Gold Sponsor, Pimberly will play a prominent role in supporting the conference’s goals and showcasing how smart digital tools and data excellence can help unite the sector.

For more information and to register, visit the official Connect Conference 2025 website.

Villeroy & Boch reports strong H1 growth driven by realignment & acquisitions

Villeroy & Boch has posted a robust 12.1% revenue increase in the first half of 2025, reaching €725.8 million. The company attributes this growth primarily to its strategic acquisition of Ideal Standard and a sharper international focus, particularly within the EMEA region and fittings segment.

The Group’s operating result (EBIT) rose by 3.2% year-on-year to €47.8 million. Overall Group EBIT saw a notable boost, climbing to €38.5 million thanks to an improved non-operating result.

The first six months of 2025 have confirmed the success of the company’s strategic repositioning. “Despite the continuing global slowdown in consumer spending, we can see that the consistent implementation of the Villeroy & Boch Group’s strategic realignment is paying off,” said CEO Gabi Schupp.

“This year, important steps include creating synergies in production and focusing on our core business and our main brands.”

As part of this focused approach, Villeroy & Boch divested its Gustavsberg and Vatette brands to Finnish manufacturer Oras Group, reinforcing its commitment to the core brands – Villeroy & Boch and Ideal Standard. In parallel, the Group has invested further in production capabilities, particularly in the fittings segment.

Bathroom & Wellness Sees Double-Digit Growth

The Bathroom & Wellness division delivered a strong performance, with revenue rising by 15.7% to €594.0 million. This uplift was mainly driven by growth in the fittings business, which added €41.8 million, and a 21.7% increase in the EMEA region.

Operating EBIT in this division climbed 3.6% to €47.0 million, confirming the impact of strategic investments and focused portfolio management.

Dining & Lifestyle Maintains Steady Performance

The Dining & Lifestyle division recorded revenue of €130.4 million, slightly below the prior year due to extraordinary licence income in 2024. When adjusted for this one-off effect, revenue grew by 0.8%.

Notably, the project business for premium hotels and restaurants grew by 23.5%, while business with stationary retail partners improved by 9.6%. EBIT for the division remained stable at €4.8 million.

Full-Year Outlook Adjusted Amid Market Uncertainty

The Group remains cautious in its outlook due to persistent volatility in the global market, ongoing trade tensions, and unpredictable US tariff policy.

Following the 11 July 2025 agreement to sell its Northern European operations (Gustavsberg and Vatette) to Oras Group, Villeroy & Boch has revised its full-year forecast. The company now expects consolidated revenue to increase in the low to mid-single-digit range, with operating EBIT remaining on par with 2024 levels.

Naturepanel wins Ideal Home Award

Naturepanel, the award-winning brand of waterproof wall panels from Grant Westfield,
has received further recognition after picking up the Ideal Home Award for Best Bathroom Surface.

The Ideal Home Awards, which are now in their 5^th year, celebrate excellence in home design and honour the very best in interiors and innovation. A panel of judges, made up of the Ideal Home editorial team and fellow industry experts, picked the winners, who were revealed on 3^rd June at an exclusive ceremony at Mr Fogg’s Botanical Tavern & Treehouse in London.

Inspired by nature, the Naturepanel Collection, which also won Best Surface of the Year at the 2024 KBBFocus Awards, provides an effortless, modern alternative to traditional wooden slat walls without the need for any specialist tools or skills.

Incredibly easy to maintain, Naturepanel is completely waterproof, making it ideal for use in the bathroom, including in shower areas or around baths, as well as other high traffic areas such as kitchens, dining and living rooms. The collection is available in three decors of Bleached Cuneo Oak, Brown Cuneo Oak and Warmia Walnut.

John Mortimer, Managing Director at Grant Westfield, says: “Naturepanel brings a new level of elegance, functionality, and sustainability to bathroom design. All Naturepanel products feature our innovative Hydrolock system for easy 100% waterproof installations. From the sleek lines and modern finishes to the eco-friendly materials used, Naturepanel redefines what it means to have a stylish and sustainable bathroom. We are thrilled that this commitment to exceptional design and environmental responsibility has been recognised at the Ideal Home Awards”

For more information, please visit: www.grantwestfield.co.uk or call 0131 337 6262.

Adroit Services becomes the first independent retailer to join the Bathroom Association

The Bathroom Association has announced that Adroit Services has joined the association, marking a significant milestone as the first independent retailer to become a member.

Based in Buckinghamshire, Adroit Services has been delivering exceptional bathroom installations across the county since 1989. What began as a one-man enterprise has evolved into an award-winning family business renowned for its customer-centric service, technical expertise, and a deeply held commitment to three core values: Partnership, Integrity, and Quality.

With over 200 years of combined trades experience, the Adroit team is dedicated to helping clients achieve bathrooms that are both beautiful and functional, guided by expert advice, trusted products, and a seamless installation process.

Tom Reynolds, Chief Executive of the Bathroom Association, commented: “Welcoming Adroit Services into the Association is an exciting and important development. As our first independent retailer member, their joining signals the beginning of a broader conversation about how we engage with this vital part of the supply chain. The team brings a wealth of insight, and I’m confident they will help shape our future offer for independent bathroom retailers. We hope Adroit will be the first of many to join our community.”

The addition of Adroit Services follows the Association’s recent call to unite the entire bathroom supply chain, encompassing manufacturers, merchants, designers, specifiers, retailers, plumbers, and installers. By extensive industry-wide collaboration, the Association is seeking to overcome challenges and create a world where bathrooms are better for people and planet.

Emma Butt, Managing Partner at Adroit Services, said: “Joining the Bathroom Association is an important move for us, and we’re honoured to be the first independent retailer welcomed into the Association.

“We believe in delivering more than just amazing bathrooms; we’re here to build trust, raise standards, and support positive change in our industry. Partnering with the Association allows us to contribute to important conversations, connect with like-minded businesses, and ensure we’re staying ahead of the curve in delivering quality and compliance to our customers.”

Frontline Bathrooms & Smiths Briten expand sales team

July 29, 2025

Smiths Briten and Frontline Bathrooms have strengthened their joint sales force with the appointment of three new area sales managers, marking a continued commitment to customer support and regional growth.

Neil Game (pictured top) joins the business with over 25 years of experience in the bathroom industry, including senior sales positions at well-established and highly regarded organisations such as N Froy & Sons, Sanipex, Methven, and RAK Ceramics. Neil will be covering the South West region, bringing with him extensive knowledge of the KBB market and a deep understanding of showroom dynamics.

In the North East, Jessica Berry steps into the ASM role after spending the last seven years building and running a successful showroom for JT Dove. Her background in retail and customer-facing design sales brings a fresh perspective and valuable insight to Frontline and Smiths Briten’s trade partners in the region.

Completing the trio is John McGuigan, who will now cover Scotland. Having worked as a delivery driver for both a competitor and then directly with Frontline and Smiths Briten, John’s route into the sales team reflects the companies’ ethos of championing internal talent. A former soldier with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, John has spent the past five years immersing himself in the distribution side of the industry, gaining first-hand experience of the challenges and priorities of KBB retailers.

These appointments increase the external sales team to 11, one of the largest field-based support networks in the UK distribution market. The move also reinforces the close operational relationship between Smiths Briten and Frontline, which are continuing to integrate their service, sales and logistics infrastructures to deliver a unified experience for retailers.

Darren Allison, managing director Frontline Bathrooms and Smiths Briten, says: “This is about real investment in people, not just processes. We are backing our growth plans with experienced, knowledgeable sales professionals who know the trade and the regions they serve. At the same time, we are streamlining the way our two businesses work together, from logistics to customer service, to ensure our partners on the ground benefit from the combined strength of both brands.”

The news follows recent announcements around major logistics upgrades, including expanded delivery coverage, enhanced regional schedules, and the rollout of a new telephone system and ERP platform across both brands, all part of a broader strategy to create a smarter, more responsive platform for growth.

For more information or trade support, contact your local ASM or visit frontlinebathrooms.co.uk or smithsbriten.co.uk.