Absara Industrial, S.L. is a respectable and established company based in Castellón, Spain. Delivering high-quality solid surface and gel coat products, the company regularly showcases its ranges at Europe’s leading bathroom exhibitions.
Offering a wide range of shower trays, wall panels, bathtubs and sinks, Hidrobox delivers fully configurable products that can be delivered as bespoke options in order to cater to a variety of customer requirements.
Hidrobox does not sell to end-users. Its customer base comes from bathroom retail showrooms, plumbing/builders merchants and local distributors.
Hidrobox is also very active in the contract sector selling products to architects and large construction groups, as well as on renovation projects (hotels, apartments, etc).
Hidrobox is interested in building partnerships with importers, dealers and agents worldwide.
To strengthen its team they are looking for sales agents to manage customer acquisition in the B2B wholesale retail arena for the whole of the UK market.
Sales agents are needed for national coverage for these areas:
South London and South England
West Country
Wales
The Midlands
NE England
Scotland
Responsibilties will include:
Acquisition of new customers in the B2B arena
Competent support and care of existing customers
Requirement profile:
Relevant professional experience as a sales agent
Success-oriented, with a high level of self-motivation
Above-average social skills and a high degree of confidence
Well versed in interacting with decision-makers
Candidates must be well-presented
A self-starter who can hit the ground running
Experience with sanitary and bathroom products would be an asset
Hidrobox offer:
Earnings based on a fair commission basis.
Please send your application to José Manuel Fortes (Export Manager)
Oxfordshire based VitrA Bathrooms is preparing for post-pandemic trading by recruiting several new marketing and sales roles.
The Marketing Team has had three new appointments. Lucy Holland has joined as senior channel marketing executive following a successful career with a specialist ventilation company Airflow Developments.
Liz Perkins has joined as digital marketing executive; Liz joins VitrA from Bluebird Care, where she worked throughout her University studies, concluding with a communications manager position.
Daniela Ruffolo joins VitrA as a channel marketing executive, having worked agency-side for Revere Agency, a B2B marketing agency in the technology sector.
VitrA has also appointed two new area sales managers. Simon Manwaring, formerly domestic specification manager for Kohler Mira, brings many years of bathroom experience and worked for Aqualisa and Manhattan Showers. Simon responsibilities will include managing the Elite and Showroom of Excellence retailers across the South East.
Martin Johnson is the new area sales manager South West for the Bathroom Collection retailers. Martin brings extensive experience of working in the industry from showroom sales, distribution and most recently Aquadart.
Nicola Friel has been appointed as showroom manager for VitrA’s new flagship showroom in Clerkenwell, London. Nicola joins VitrA from Domus Tiles, Clerkenwell and brings a wealth of experience, having managed the showrooms in Clerkenwell and Oxford Street.
VitrA’s Regional Marketing Manager for Europe, Margaret Talbot, says, “We are delighted to strengthen further the sales, marketing, and London showroom team. With the reopening of the bathroom retailers, the opening of the London showroom and exciting product launches in the pipeline for 2021, this will be a busy and exciting year, and each team members will play a key role. “
Given the shortage of skilled installers in the sanitary industry, it is more important than ever to offer an attractive training programme that helps young people build the foundations for a prosperous future. This is why GROHE initiated its “GROHE Installer Vocational Training and Education” (GIVE) programme.
To date, GROHE has already collaborated with 26 institutions offering plumbing training across the EMENA region. To help improve training facilities, GROHE will set up a fully functioning training environment where students can benefit from the brand’s vast expertise. GIVE supports colleges and vocational education 2 institutions in creating a uniform approach with modern equipment, training material and a written examination that will set new industry standards. Even after students have completed their GROHE training, they will receive assistance – with job placements or even a work experience programme at one of GROHE’s industry partners.
The GIVE programme actually started in the UK itself, with the highly successful working partnership between GROHE and Colchester Institute, the largest vocational college in North Essex. The dedicated fully-functioning training rig was opened to its 500-strong cohort of plumbing students in November 2019. The GROHE UK team is currently planning how it will expand on the success of the GIVE programme into more UK training colleges, with potential partnerships on the horizon in both Dublin and the South of England.
“The GIVE programme will unite all our professional training efforts and help young people from all backgrounds by improving the quality of life for themselves and their families. We offer students a training and education programme which will prepare them to become skilled plumbers and guide them further in their careers,” states Jonas Brennwald, Leader LIXIL EMENA. “Besides initiatives like ‘GROHE goes ZERO’ and ‘Less Plastic,’ where we advocate resource conservation and sustainable consumption, the social dimension is an integral part of our sustainability strategy. As the programme’s name implies, giving back to society is vital for us at GROHE.”
In this exclusive comment, the BMA responds to the Queeen’s speech.
With a national political target to build 300,000 homes a year, homeownership is about to take centre stage in the Government’s ‘levelling-up roadshow.
The recent Queen’s Speech provided an opportunity to remind us of the ‘unprecedented support provided to businesses’ during the pandemic. And moving forward, the political priority will be more support for businesses driving economic growth, boosting research and development, and helping achieve the net-zero 2050 target. These plans are apparently designed to provide ‘rocket fuel’, firing up Britain’s fortunes, and creating a nation of homeowners.
The powers of the Planning Bill promise to radically shift the way decisions are made on new developments. The whole of the construction sector stands to benefit from this, and with new build homes commonly having more bathrooms than there are actual occupants, this will be good news for BMA members.
The recent closure of the Green Homes Grant scheme after just six months of operation has caused damage, and a sense of inconsistency around energy efficiency policy and has cast doubt in the minds of both consumers and industry.
The design and administration of the scheme and the challenges it created for those attempting to access it meant much of the initial public enthusiasm and the confidence of businesses was undermined.
The national aspirations are clear, we understand what is expected in terms of more homes and net-zero, but the devil is in the detail. How are we supposed to deliver these ambitions?
The construction sector needs to see tangible long-term commitments to help the industry make good on these promises and targets.
Duravit tell us its new ‘HygieneFlush’ flushing system is set to revolutionize the toilet market. By combining the new flushing system with Duravit’s antibacterial ceramic glaze, hygieneGlaze, it delivers double protection for washrooms and bathrooms.
HygieneFlush features an extremely powerful force of the flush which flows simultaneously from two carefully positioned openings. Independent tests show that this new flushing technique cleans the entire inner surface of the toilet most effectively. Keeping water usage to a minimum – only 4.5 l is used per flush – the flow is attuned to create a vortex and it is this that guarantees the ideal flushing action every time.
This new technology combines the concept of a rotational flush with Duravit’s Rimless flushing technology whilst deploying two parallel flushing actions. In addition to this, the openings have been repositioned ensuring that the area at the front of the toilet is cleaned flawlessly every time, whilst avoiding unwanted splashes.
Cleanliness and sanitation is further guaranteed as all-new HygieneFlush toilets come with Duravit’s HygieneGlaze ceramic glaze as standard. HygieneGlaze eliminates bacterial growth; six hours after use, 90% of bacteria (e.g. coli bacteria) are eliminated, with 99.9% eliminated after 24 hours.
The antibacterial glaze is baked into the inner bowl of the toilet during firing; this makes it particularly effective in areas that are highly susceptible to the accumulation of bacteria. The combined action of these unique Duravit features – HygieneFlush and HygieneGlaze – provides maximum protection in terms of hygiene and cleanliness in the bathroom.
The ME by Starck wall hung WC range is available with the HygieneFlush flushing technology and the highly effective antibacterial HygieneGlaze ceramic glaze there is also a SensoWash® shower-toilet option available with HygieneGlaze available as standard.
Mondrian, a leading brand within the Accor group, today announced its expansion into Europe with Mondrian Shoreditch London. The lifestyle hotel, owned by The Reuben Brothers, will open its doors July 2021 following a major overhaul and complete redesign by award-winning London interior design studio Goddard Littlefair.
This latest news comes on the heels of Accor’s acquisition of sbe’s hotel brands in Q4 2020 and its planned joint venture with Ennismore, which will see the creation of one of the world’s largest and fastest growing lifestyle operators later this summer.
sbe Chief Operating Officer Chadi Farhat said, “We are very proud to collaborate with Jamie Reuben and his family in bringing the iconic Mondrian brand back to London. The city has been and will continue to be a thriving hub for our lifestyle offerings, and myself and my team are excited to re-establish Mondrian as one of London’s most innovative destinations for lifestyle, hospitality, culinary and mixology experiences for locals and travellers alike.”
Reuben Brothers said, “We are delighted to be partnering with Accor and sbe to open a European flagship Mondrian hotel which will enhance Shoreditch’s already thriving artistic contribution to our capital. Mondrian Shoreditch will be a go-to luxury lifestyle brand for culinary and culture-seekers from all over the world.”
The 120-bedroom property – including 13 suites – will sit in the midst of Shoreditch, East London’s creative and cultural hub: an area that captivates the energy and playful DNA of the Mondrian brand. As a leading lifestyle brand, Mondrian recognises the cultural vibrancy of a place and elevates it – intertwining guest offerings with local highlights and bringing the essence of East London to the hotel and vice versa. Mondrian Shoreditch will collaborate with local personalities and brands to highlight their lifestyle approach to hospitality, via partnerships including artistic pop-ups and live performances in The Screening Room, a private room and bar. The property will also offer a premium co-working space, visionary dining and mixology concepts and boasts a rooftop pool and lounge by an award-winning team, just in time for the summer – a rarity for Londoners and always in high demand.
Dining Mondrian Shoreditch presents a host of truly enriching and elevated experiences via its portfolio of diversely distinct luxury brands. On the lower ground, world-famous chef Dani García introduces BIBO, a Spanish kitchen serving tapas with courtyard seats and Garcia’s first outpost in London. Mondrian Shoreditch will also be host to a new all-day café and cocktail bar – Christina’s Shoreditch. Christina’s Shoreditch will only source products from local independent suppliers (farmers, growers and community bakeries), start-ups and brands with social impact. Guests will also have access to the exclusive Altitude Rooftop for breakfast. The space will otherwise be exclusively for members of The Curtain, the hotel’s private members club. Mondrian Shoreditch’s culinary venues are a testament to the hospitality hallmarks of the Mondrian brand.
Dani García said, “It is an honor to open our first UK based restaurant alongside our amazing partners Accor and the Reuben Brothers, and we are excited to establish the property as the heart of the Shoreditch food scene. I have always been fascinated by the vibrant energy of London and look forward to welcoming guests to our restaurant in the Mondrian hotel which is sure to become a true icon in the district of Shoreditch.”
The Curtain Members Club The well-known Curtain Members’ Club will re-open at the hotel. A co-working space will also be available for members on the ground floor –The Design Studio – and will provide a world-class offering with a newly scheduled and diverse range of weekly events – from panel discussions, to live music and club nights with local talent. The Design Studio will be a prime location for corporates and local creatives looking for a luxury day-office away from home-working. Members also enjoy exclusive access to Altitude Rooftop, The Lounge, Rose Bar, and the event space.
Design Award-winning interior design studio Goddard Littlefair led design for Mondrian’s guest rooms, public spaces and food and beverage venues. The hotel has been significantly refreshed in line with the upbeat and individual spirit of Mondrian hotels. The reception and lobby are playful and reflective with significant artwork installations for guests to discover, typical of the Mondrian design portfolio. The double height ground floor bar showcases large-scale artwork hand-painted onto concrete by Fred Coppin and the rooftop bar dressed with striped and festooned shade structures will appeal to the guest and locals alike. The new BIBO restaurant by chef Dani García was also designed by Goddard Littlefair who dovetailed the identity of Mondrian spirit with García’s culinary legacy. The guestroom refurbishment encapsulates a luxurious, theatrical aesthetic with fresh white brick walls and artwork selections that invite witty appreciation. Dakota Development, a subsidiary of sbe, led by President Joe Faust, provided technical service support for the entire development process.
The opening follows the company’s recent launch of Mondrian Seoul Itaewon, and announcement to open Mondrian Bordeaux and Mondrian Cannes in 2022. The return of the Mondrian brand to London reflects the continued strategic expansion of the brand’s international footprint, which will include soon-to-be-announced Mondrian properties in Australia, the Dominican Republic, Germany, the Maldives, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Dani García said, “It is an honor to open our first UK based restaurant alongside our amazing partners Accor and the Reuben Brothers, and we are excited to establish the property as the heart of the Shoreditch food scene. I have always been fascinated by the vibrant energy of London and look forward to welcoming guests to our restaurant in the Mondrian hotel which is sure to become a true icon in the district of Shoreditch.”
The Curtain Members Club The well-known Curtain Members’ Club will re-open at the hotel. A co-working space will also be available for members on the ground floor – The Design Studio – and will provide a world-class offering with a newly scheduled and diverse range of weekly events – from panel discussions, to live music and club nights with local talent. The Design Studio will be a prime location for corporates and local creatives looking for a luxury day-office away from home-working. Members also enjoy exclusive access to Altitude Rooftop, The Lounge, Rose Bar, and the event space.
Design Award-winning interior design studio Goddard Littlefair led design for Mondrian’s guest rooms, public spaces and food and beverage venues. The hotel has been significantly refreshed in line with the upbeat and individual spirit of Mondrian hotels. The reception and lobby are playful and reflective with significant artwork installations for guests to discover, typical of the Mondrian design portfolio. The double height ground floor bar showcases large-scale artwork hand-painted onto concrete by Fred Coppin and the rooftop bar dressed with striped and festooned shade structures will appeal to the guest and locals alike. The new BIBO restaurant by chef Dani García was also designed by Goddard Littlefair who dovetailed the identity of Mondrian spirit with García’s culinary legacy. The guestroom refurbishment encapsulates a luxurious, theatrical aesthetic with fresh white brick walls and artwork selections that invite witty appreciation. Dakota Development, a subsidiary of sbe, led by President Joe Faust, provided technical service support for the entire development process.
The opening follows the company’s recent launch of Mondrian Seoul Itaewon, and announcement to open Mondrian Bordeaux and Mondrian Cannes in 2022. The return of the Mondrian brand to London reflects the continued strategic expansion of the brand’s international footprint, which will include soon-to-be announced Mondrian properties in Australia, the Dominican Republic, Germany, the Maldives, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Small really can be beautiful, proven here with the petite but hugely stylish trays from the enduringly classic Base Slate collection from Acquabella.
The essence of the range is all about classic, quality design in a beautiful slate texture which are available in over 2000 colours. The range is known for its adaptability and potential to create bespoke, made-to-measure designs for style-savvy and discerning consumers. With sizes from just 80 cm x 80 cm this compact tray is perfect for smaller ensuites, corner recesses and cloakrooms. The trays are low level from 25 mm – 40 mm for a contemporary wetroom look, the waste can be positioned on the right or left side to suit the configuration.
The quality tray is made from Akron, a composite material made of a mixture of resin with natural minerals and absolutely no silica has an extremely high definition non-slip finish, is warm to the touch and is resistant to impact, hydrolysis and thermal shock, with the added advantage of being antibacterial.
Ilika Copeland has today joined Made in Britain, the membership organisation for UK manufacturers, in a new Chief Operating Officer role. With a longstanding background in manufacturing and marketing, Ilika joins from British bathroom manufacturer Ideal Standard, where she spent the last 8 and a half years, primarily in Trade Marketing.
As Made in Britain enters its next phase of growth, Ilika will be responsible for overseeing membership services and contractor partnerships, and managing data, communications and day to day operations.
Made in Britain is the organisation behind the official, collective mark for SME and larger manufacturing businesses in the UK. It represents and promotes the best interests of more than 1680 businesses, helping them to maximise sales opportunities, and is currently growing at the fastest rate in its 6 year history. owner
John Pearce, CEO Made in Britain said: “As we grow rapidly in membership numbers, we are also increasing our member news output, events and partnership programmes, and with all that comes an increasing amount of data to manage. In Ilika we have found a collaborative leader with excellent marketing and IT skills, who will manage our day to day operations and ensure our members get the best service and return from their investment in Made in Britain membership.”
Ilika Copeland has over twenty years of business experience, with roles in content, IP and marketing at the likes of ITV, Sony Pictures and the BBC. Ilika has a passion for UK manufacturing as she was born into a family of British manufacturers, with her great grandfather a former owner of Norton Motorcycles company.
Ilika said: “I am delighted to be joining Made in Britain, at a time when there is such a focus and interest in ‘buying British’. I very much look forward to carving out this new role alongside John, which we hope will ensure the longevity and the success of the organisation.”
Leading supplier HiB has launched a new bathroom cabinet with a touch sensor for easy and quick illuminationand a built-in Bluetooth® speaker.
The Dimension LED Bluetooth® speaker cabinet brings together a myriad of features with a bold and sophisticated design that is striking when viewed from every angle. The touch sensor on the side of the cabinet activates Dimension’s illuminated exterior, which can be appreciated from the front, sides and inside the mirrored doors, creating a practical but showstopping centrepiece in the bathroom.
The cabinet features built-in Bluetooth® connectivity and speakers, allowing users to link their devices and listen to music, podcasts and audio books with ease. Charging devices isn’t a problem thanks to Dimension’s two integrated USB ports and a 2 pin socket for charging toothbrushes and shavers.
When using the cabinet after a shower or bath, the heated pad technology hidden beneath the surface of the soft-close mirrored doors, helps to reduce condensation and maintain visibility. Plus, personal items can be conveniently stored using Dimension’s adjustable shelving, maximising storage.
Product longevity and quality assurance have always been central to the design of HiB mirrors, cabinets, furniture and accessories and Dimension benefits from improved assembly features that ensure performance and durability.
