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Leading KBB distributors, PJH has announced Dale Gabriel’s promotion to the role of Product Manager (Branded Appliances, Sinks, and Taps). Dale will play a pivotal role in building the company’s already strong relationships with the many appliance, sink, and tap brands it distributes.

Dale began his career at PJH in 2014 as part of the purchasing team, where he dedicated over nine years to refining his procurement and supply chain management expertise. His new role within the product team will involve overseeing product selection, fostering relationships with key appliance, sink & tap brands, and ensuring PJH’s offerings continuously evolve to meet market demand.

Dale is enthusiastic about his new position, stating, “Joining the product team at PJH is an exciting step in my career. Having worked closely with the product teams over the years, I am eager to contribute to our growth and innovation. I look forward to enhancing our product brand portfolio and delivering exceptional value with PJH’s ‘First Choice’ service promise to customers through strategic market insights and competitive pricing.”

Kim Cooper, head of marketing and product at PJH, commented, “We are thrilled to see Dale take on this new role. His extensive experience in our purchasing department and deep understanding of market dynamics make him the perfect fit for Product Manager. Dale’s strategic vision and commitment to excellence will be instrumental as we continue to expand and adapt in this fast-evolving industry.”                                                           

PJH distributes a comprehensive choice of leading household brands, spanning a range of price points to appeal to different customers. Brands supplied include names such as Miele, Elica, Neff, Samsung, Bosch, Whirlpool, Hotpoint, Indesit, AEG, Electrolux, Zanussi, Abode and InSinkErator – to name but a few.

For further information on PJH, visit www.pjh.uk , www.partners.pjh.uk or call, T: 0800 8 77 88 99.

Home renovation platform Houzz Inc., has launched new tools for industry professionals that make it easier to manage complex projects, stay organised and reduce costly errors using Houzz Pro, the industry’s leading all-in-one project management and design software. The tools include the Subcontractor Dashboard, Google Drive Integration and Photo Documentation.  

“We understand the unique complexities that come with managing large teams and projects. With the release of these tools, we’re simplifying the process for larger firms, helping them track all the moving pieces of their projects in one place,” said Alon Cohen, Houzz co-founder and CEO. “By getting everyone on the same page, Houzz Pro software helps reduce errors and identify potential issues that could impact project timelines and budgets.”

The new tools include: 

  • Subcontractor Dashboard: The Houzz Pro Subcontractor Dashboard helps building and renovation firms align with subcontractors (e.g., electricians and plumbers), giving firms the ability to share access to the project information subcontractors need to do work on time and on budget, including the project schedule, assigned tasks and key files. 
  • Google Drive Integration: Houzz Pro’s Google Drive Integration enables pros to further streamline their project and file management. Now, pros can pull files and photos straight from their Google Drive into project documents within Houzz Pro, including estimates, invoices or daily logs. This helps pros both save time, eliminating the need to download and reupload files, and keeps projects organised by housing a single source of truth directly in Houzz Pro. 
  • Photo Documentation: With Photo Documentation capabilities in Houzz Pro, pros can create an organised and easily accessible record of their work by saving an unlimited number of photos directly to a project’s Daily Logs or Files and Folders. Daily logs can be shared internally to track job-site activity, ensure crew alignment and safeguard against liabilities. Pros can also share daily logs (including photos) with clients, giving them transparency into project progress. 

Houzz Pro helps pros win projects, collaborate with clients and teams, and run their businesses efficiently and profitably, while delivering an outstanding client experience. The new tools are fully integrated into the software, which empowers pros to manage their entire project lifecycle in one place including Estimates, 3D Floor Plans, Selections, Invoices and Online Payments, and more. Sign up at houzz.co.uk/pro

Hundreds of thousands of GCSE students will receive their exam results this Thursday before deciding whether to pursue A-Levels and higher education or pursue a vocational course such as a T-Level or apprenticeship.

Data from Gov.uk reveals that 87% of pupils who finished their GCSEs in July 2017 went into education immediately after, with only 4% going on to take apprenticeships and 3% going straight into employment. There is a growing need for more young people to take apprenticeships in the UK, with data from the Department of Education revealing that only 1% of young people are studying for a T-Level.

The lack of encouragement onto the worksite poses another issue as young people aren’t being incentivised into a career in the trades as research from Fix Radio – the UK’s only national radio station for builders – finds that 65% of Brits say they did not receive enough encouragement to pursue a career in the trades during their academic years. Endemic labour shortages have been laid bare as the skills deficit cripples the construction sector, with 225,000 extra workers needed to fulfil existing construction demand. Broadcaster on Fix Radio, Clive Holland, discusses how national apathy towards apprenticeships has exacerbated the skills deficit and, by extension, the housing crisis. 

In light of GCSE results day, the newly launched National Construction Audit from Fix Radio has unveiled that 18% of British parents would not want their children to work in the construction industry because they don’t believe they will earn enough money. As the national average salary for a construction apprentice stands at £23,828 according to Glassdoor, apprentices will be able to not only earn on the job but also be debt-free. This also coincides with many tradespeople’s jobs earning sizeable amounts more than university graduates. According to research carried out by the Federation of Master Builders, brickies, plumbers, and other skilled professionals were taking home earnings that dwarfed those of graduates by thousands of pounds.

  • Site manager – £51,266
  • Plumbers – £48,675
  • Supervisors – £48,407
  • Electricians – £47,265
  • Roofers – £42,303
  • Bricklayers – £42,034
  • Carpenters and joiners – £41,413
  • Plasterers – £41,045
  • Scaffolders – £40,942
  • Painters and decorators – £34,587

With a further 67% of Brits (29.7 million) agreeing that their most valuable professional development came from learning on the job from skilled professionals, it is more imperative than ever for the UK to support apprenticeships. Research from the Institute of Student Employers (ISE) indicates that the average graduate salary in the UK sits at £33,229. As the number of people starting apprenticeships fell from 500,000 in 2015 to 337,000 last year, more must be done to encourage young people to opt for apprenticeships over traditional university degrees.  According to Clive Holland, failure to address the lack of builders in the UK will affect any measures introduced to tackle the housing crisis after the election, which could potentially be alleviated by encouraging more young people into apprenticeships. The CIPD states the number of apprenticeships starts has significantly decreased since the introduction of the current apprenticeship levy system in 2017, creating a bigger issue around labour shortages. Analysis of Department for Education figures shows a 41% decline (almost 54,000) in starts for those under 19 and a 36% decline (55,000) for those aged 19-24 between 2015 and 2023.

Clive Holland, host of The Clive Holland Show on Fix Radio, comments, “Apprenticeships are on the decline, and the Department of Education, by their own admission, shows that only one per cent of all young people are studying for a T-Level.

“Since Brexit, record numbers of tradespeople have left the country, and the stresses of an overstretched workforce are prompting thousands of colleagues to either retrain or leave the industry entirely. As Fix’s research has shown, the nation is starting to feel this pinch – with increasing numbers finding themselves waiting more than a year for a tradesperson to see them – imagine what this means for the housing crisis in the long term.

“Years of continually missed homebuilding targets are now pricing millions of people out of the property market, and it will only get worse. We simply need more builders. If political parties, irrespective of their stripe or colour, honestly believe they can address the housing crisis without having the serious conversation of addressing the skills deficit, we’re heading into a very dangerous position.”

Nestled within a compact corner plot in Surrey, Butterfly House by Oliver Leech Architects is a meticulously crafted, future-ready residence that seamlessly blends into an existing family estate.

Designed for an elderly family member, this new extension is thoughtfully positioned at the southern boundary of the main house’s garden. Despite the challenges posed by its small, triangular plot, bordered on two sides, the structure effectively maximises available space, providing a welcoming and functional living area. The architects selected LAUFEN for the bathrooms, showcasing the project’s commitment to superior quality and design excellence.

A house of contrasts

Within Butterfly House, a unified design language is achieved through a carefully selected material palette that includes polished concrete floors and pale clay plaster walls. These elements work together to create a continuous flow throughout the home, contributing to a sense of unity and harmony. The pale clay plaster walls enhance the feeling of spaciousness and give the home a bright and airy atmosphere. On the other hand, the polished concrete floors offer a blend of practicality and elegance, providing both durability and a sleek, modern look that complements the home’s overall design.

Conversely, the exterior is clad in burnt Japanese timber that blends effortlessly with the surrounding trees, giving the house a natural and harmonious appearance. This thoughtfully chosen cladding not only enhances visual appeal but also ensures outstanding durability and weather resistance, contributing to the longevity of the structure. The dark, rich tones of the charred timber create a striking visual contrast with the lighter interior finishes, adding depth and character to the overall design.

Bathroom-Review-LAUFEN_Oliver-Leech-Architects

Photo: Ståle Eriksen.

Wood surfaces have long been cherished for their timeless beauty, but as homeowners seek more durable, sustainable and low-maintenance options, wood-effect tiles are emerging as a clear favourite. Offering the best of both worlds with the durability of ceramic tile and the warm hues of wood, wood-effect tiles are popular with those looking for something with a more traditional aesthetic. María D Arraez, director at Tile of Spain UK explains why wood-effect tiles are the superior choice and how to use them in the home.

Superior durability

“Unlike real wood, which is prone to scratches, dents and wear over time, wood-effect tiles are designed to withstand heavy traffic, making them suitable for busy homes and spaces such as hallways. Wood-effect tiles are also completely waterproof, making them the ideal option for rooms such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. Try using them on kitchen splashbacks and bathroom flooring to create an eye-catching display, as seen in the Poeme Roble by Keraben.”

Low maintenance

“Wood-effect tiles require minimal maintenance as they don’t need sealing or staining, as is the case with real wood. They are extremely easy to keep clean and will continue looking as fresh as the day they were installed. An option such as the Bosland Nature Tile by Rocersa is perfect for homes with muddy paws and children who like to play outdoors, as a simple sweep and mop will ensure a pristine condition for many years to come.”

Bathroom-Review-Tiles-of-Spain-

Versatile designs

“With so many colours, textures and finishes mimicking the look of real wood, you will be spoilt for choice. From light oak to deep mahogany, there is so much versatility with wood-effect tiles that you can achieve your desired look without the limitations of natural wood grain. Whichever room you’re redecorating, there will be a wood-effect tile to suit, offering a consistent appearance across your chosen surface. The Alchemy Pearl Tile by Peronda is particularly effective when used in the bedroom, as its light-coloured and gentle tones are ideal for creating a relaxing environment, whilst the Alvaral Louis Roble Tile by Undefasa, with its eye-catching pattern, is better suited to spaces in need of a statement.”

Bathroom-Review-wood-effect-tiles

Even if your bathroom is small or irregularly shaped, you can still indulge in relaxing, life-affirming moments with clever planning and the right space-saving products. A wide range of compact bathtub or space-saving options offer attractive solutions for maximising space and combining functionality with comfort.

Compact & stylish

Bathroom-Review-Space-saving-installation-Duravit.

Built-in bathtubs are generally installed between two walls or in a corner, which makes them a good choice for smaller bathrooms. Sizes starting at 1,400 x 750mm or narrow models with widths of just 650mm fit perfectly into any floor plan. Freestanding tubs, such as the Duravit D-Neo, measure 1,600 x 750mm and are available in compact sizes. Placed near the wall, these bathtubs slot harmoniously into the room, creating a lighter visual impression thanks to the free space below the backrests.

Odd indeed

Bathroom-Review-Duravit-Space-saving-bathtubs

Asymmetric bathtubs are perfect for irregular-shaped rooms and enable a luxurious bathing experience with a comparatively low fill volume even for small floor plans. With sizes starting at just 1500 x 800mm, the trapezoid Duravit No.1 bathtub offers bathing comfort in the smallest of spaces. Because of its asymmetric properties, it is ideally suited to a corner installation.

One for all


Bathroom-Review-space-saving-installation-small-bathrooms

Combined bathtubs that integrate a walk-in shower and bathtub, such as the Shower & Bath model with dimensions of just 1,750 x 700mm, are ideal for the most limiting of floor plans. With an integrated glass shower wall, cushion and easy entry, this option guarantees maximum comfort and a range of choices that make everyday life easier for those with restricted mobility.

PADL Bathrooms, an installer of high-end bathrooms and wetrooms for homeowners and leisure sector clients, was involved in fitting the display areas within the recently opened extension to Schlüter-Systems‘ premises in Coalville, Leicestershire. The company has since reported a growing number of applications for the German-based manufacturer’s impressive range of high-performance tiling products.

PADL’s company lead, Antony Marson, enjoyed a long, successful solo career, including projects with PADL companies, before opening PADL Bespoke Bathrooms in the Midlands in 2022. The company has grown to cover the whole of the UK by offering high standards of workmanship at realistic prices.  The specialist installer won the Behind The Tiles Best Bathroom Project in 2023 and was a finalist for The Tile Association’s ‘Excellence in Tiling’ Awards 2024.

Within the scope of its operations, PADL regularly uses Schlüter-Systems’ KERDI-BOARD, waterproofing membrane, and KERDI-BOARD-W washbasin, along with correspondingly large quantities of the DITRA HEAT underfloor heating systems and the company’s rugged and elegant tile trims.  

Marson commented: “Prevention is better than cure, and the benefits of the Schlüter product range is primarily the prevention of damage resulting from the substrates to the installed tiles, including cracking.  If the grout lines were to fail, the Schlüter products will prevent the water being absorbed into the wall or floor underneath.  This benefits the installer and the customer: with less time spent diagnosing and fixing problems for the installer and less stress and time for the client.  The initial outlay on the cost of the product is justified by the losses saved with failed installations.

“As an installer of Schlüter, you are made to feel part of the family, while the Schlüter team share the same passion and enthusiasm for the application of their products as part of your installations as you do. The team at Schlüter go above and beyond to ensure the company’s customers are equipped with the correct knowledge, whether that’s inviting you to a training course or spending time talking through technical aspects on the phone.  It’s always a pleasure to have a visit from your local Schlüter rep.

“From the smallest domestic project to large scale commercial refurbishment, walking away from a finished job with complete confidence in the products providing the foundations to your work allows for an installer to sleep peacefully at night. And from talking with our customers, we also know they share a confidence in the products, and that they are buying into durability when they choose to purchase Schlüter materials to support their installations.”

For further information, call 01530 813396 or visit https://www.schluter.co.uk/

Lyrical Communications, part of Nineteen Group, has revealed details of an enhanced strategic partnership with the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) that spans the InstallerSHOW, InstallerDIGITAL, and elementalLONDON brands.

Building on the existing collaboration, which saw the BMA contribute to expanding the bathroom segment at InstallerSHOW, and the delivery of the inaugural Installer Kitchens & Bathrooms event in 2024 (including the popular Future of Water theatre), the enhanced offering will include co-location of BMA events at both InstallerSHOW and elementalLONDON in 2025, as well as substantially increased input into mixed media content for the K&B stream of the InstallerDIGITAL platform.

Tom Reynolds, CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, comments: “Today’s announcement is a natural evolution of the longstanding and fruitful collaboration between BMA and Lyrical Communications. As an industry, bathroom manufacturers and installers are critical in the effort to make the UK’s building stock fit for the 21st century. Lyrical’s full portfolio, including elementalLONDON and the expanded Installer Kitchens & Bathrooms, brings together all the relevant stakeholders. The partnership, therefore, perfectly aligns with our association’s mission.”

Michael Costain, managing director of Lyrical Communications, adds: “This is a partnership that has flourished over a number of years, and we’re delighted to be able to expand our collaboration across the entire Lyrical portfolio. Working together in this way ensures we are able to deliver valuable content which benefits the entire kitchens and bathrooms supply chain – whether online or in person.”

Installer Kitchens & Bathrooms at InstallerSHOW 2025 (taking place from June 24-26 at NEC Birmingham) will serve as a pivotal gathering for industry leaders, including manufacturers, retailers, designers, distributors, specifiers, and installers. This event is designed to foster a collaborative approach to shaping the sector’s future. Following its successful debut in 2024, which showcased cutting-edge technology, tools, and innovation, the 2025 event will continue strengthening the supply chain through education, knowledge sharing, and networking. Attendees can look forward to a comprehensive content program in dedicated theatres, covering essential topics like water and energy efficiency, design innovation, sustainable and smart technology, best practices, and relevant legislation.

elementalLONDON (19-20 November 2025, ExCeL London) has the ethos of “Advancing the efficiency of buildings” at its core. It will deliver an informative and engaging conference, exhibition and networking programme that combines deep insight with a practical understanding of the challenges faced by building owners and operators and the entire supply chain with whom they work.

InstallerDIGITAL is the UK’s leading online platform for tradespeople in the heating, plumbing, electrical and K&B sectors. It has been at the heart of the industry for more than two decades and is a both a trusted voice and the primary resource for news, opinion, technical information, and advice across the installation community.

Bathroom products brand Roca has invested in CRB Health Tech’s third fund, CRB Digital Health III. This is Spain’s first European fund dedicated exclusively to digital health, focusing on acquiring stakes in companies within this sector.

Roca Group’s investment of one million euros is made through Roca Group Ventures, its vehicle for investing in start-ups and innovative projects. This move demonstrates Roca Group’s interest in innovative digital technologies and artificial intelligence that enhance people’s lives and could soon be applied to health in the bathroom.

CRB Health Tech has a solid track record with two previous funds in biotechnology and medical devices. With this third fund, it transitions towards digital health, reinforcing its commitment to this growing sector. Besides Roca Group, prominent investors in the fund include Sanitas (insurance), CBNK (financial sector), and Cantabria Labs, Aldo Union and Tiselab (pharmaceutical industry). The City Council of Barcelona, numerous family offices and individual investors also support the fund.

Stockist: rocagroup.com

Bathroom product manufacturer HiB and Home-Start UK, a leading family support charity, have extended f their highly successful partnership for the second year.

After smashing its first-year targets, HiB has supported the charity with corporate donations, staff fundraising, and volunteering to raise an impressive £25,872.50 to help vulnerable families across the UK. Building on this success, HiB and Home-Start UK have now signed an agreement to continue the partnership for another 12 months, with HiB presenting the charity with a cheque for £20k at the beginning of August to kick off another great year.

Home-Start reaches over 78,000 children in 43,692 families across the UK. The charity helps families close to breaking point due to isolation, bereavement, illness, mental health issues, financial insecurity, and more. Home-Start volunteers don’t just support parents in coping but also in feeling confident and thriving in creating the best possible start for their children.

From the outset, HiB’s dedicated staff have wholeheartedly embraced this partnership through funds and activities, offering direct support for 489 families. Some of the activities that HiB has participated in include the London half marathon, a Halloween fundraiser, and other local volunteering opportunities.

The funds raised so far have the potential to make a big difference, for instance, supporting the recruitment and training of an additional 539 Home-Start volunteers. Each volunteer assists six families, on average, which means over 3,000 families could receive the essential support they need from HiB’s donation alone.

Robert Ginsberg, CEO of HiB, expressed his enthusiasm, saying: “We are incredibly proud of the dedication shown by our team. Our partnership with Home-Start has not only allowed us to give back to the community, but also strengthened our company culture. We are excited to continue this journey for another year and to keep making a difference to the lives of families – every contribution helps ensure that no child or family is left behind.”

Home-Start’s CEO, Peter Grigg, added: “We are so proud of our partnership, the support from HiB has been phenomenal. The commitment goes beyond financial contributions; it extends to hands-on involvement and genuine care for the families we support. We are excited about the future of this partnership and the continued positive impact it will have on communities across the UK.”

As HiB moves into the second year of its partnership, it is committed to building on its success. It plans more fundraising events, volunteering opportunities, and initiatives that will further its mission to support families in need. Next up is the Three Peaks challenge that 10 HiB employees will embark on in September.