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 20th 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.
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.
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.”
Barwick has announced that the business has received investment from TPA Capital, a UKmid-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.”
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.
Virgin Hotels has announced the opening date of its Edinburgh outpost, marking the group’s first property outside of the US. Situated in the India Buildings in the city’s Old Town the hotel comprises 222 Chambers and Grand Chamber Suites as well as multiple F&B outlets, all with their own distinct design.
Billed to open in June, the latest venture is set to be followed by Virgin Hotels Glasgow later in summer. The site is also home to a 19th century church, now known as Greyfriars Hall, which has been restored and repurposed as an event venue. And to top it all off, a rooftop sanctuary affords views of Edinburgh Castle.
Warm textiles and locally sourced furnishings create a bright, airy feel, the Chambers feature Virgin Hotels’ signature layout with two areas; the Dressing Room includes a full vanity, double closet space for two, makeup desk and mirror, an extra-large shower with a built-in bench and toiletries by Arran of Scotland completes the room. A sliding door or drapery separates it from The Lounge, which houses Virgin Hotels’ ergonomically designed bed with tufted headboard, a fully stocked red Smeg mini-fridge includes a curated selection of local products. A television, ample outlets for smartphones, laptops or other devices ensures connectivity.
Spanning ten floors, guests have a range of options when selecting a Chamber or Suite, with 15 categories to choose from. Signature suite Richard’s Flat strikes the balance for Sir Richard’s home away from home with its restored architectural details and contemporary furnishings, while the Eve Branson suite – a nod to the Virgin founder’s late mother, found under the bell tower of the revived mediaeval church – sees dramatic architecture tempered with a muted palette in rich textures.
For those looking to stay somewhere a little different, the Moroccan-inspired Kasbah Tamadot Suite honours the Virgin Limited Edition property in the Atlas Mountains, with a secret second floor lounge adorned with traditional fabrics and festive lanterns.
The social spaces include Commons Club – Virgin Hotels’ flagship restaurant and bar – and Eve, an all-day dining and late-night entertainment space.
A collaboration between Virgin Hotels and Scottish design and architecture studios Ica, Four-by-Two and Joelle Reid Interiors, the hotel’s design preserves the original building’s notable elements while adding a sense of style and sophistication. The property promises a mix of old and new to capture the character of Edinburgh’s cultural heritage, combined with the personalised service the Virgin Hotels group is known for.
James Bermingham, Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Hotels commented:
“Edinburgh is such an iconic city and we’re thrilled it will be the home of the first Virgin Hotels in the UK and across Europe. Through dynamic contextual design and neighbourhood-centric influences the new hotel will be a cultural city hub, with a design that sustains the building’s heritage while adding a vibrant, new style to the area.”
In view of the dramatic situation in Ukraine, Messe Frankfurt has decided not to admit Russian exhibitors as well as exhibitors from Belarus to its trade fairs until further notice. This applies to all countries of the Messe Frankfurt Group that have joined the sanction measures.
Furthermore, Messe Frankfurt is also suspending all visitor marketing activities in Russia and Belarus until further notice.
Last week, Messe Frankfurt had already decided to suspend its events in Russia until further notice.
Virtual Worlds previewed a new update to its innovative design software at kbb Birmingham 2022. Virtual Worlds Professional Version 8 features a new graphics engine that provides real-time rendering with a level of detail it says has never been seen before.
Challenging the need for time-consuming photo-realistic rendering, the new graphics engine injects energy into the design where texture, light, reflection, shadow and sheen show their effect on the design as it is being constructed
Bringing the design process to life and ensuring buy in from customers at the early stages, Version 8 also gives the retailer peace of mind, making it simple to identify and rectify specification errors that may otherwise result in product returns. Material mistakes grab the attention straight away, woodgrain depth in furniture comes to life, lighting schemes can be adjusted, and colours and paint finishes can all be fully appreciated in a way that is as true to life as it gets with CAD.
With Comic Relief once again set to raise much-needed funds for charitable causes, there will be the usual range of weird and whacky fundraising ideas happening across the country. One of the most iconic, is the eponymous sitting in a bath of Heinz baked beans. But this year, Lakes Showering Spaces and Heinz UK are asking why should baths have all the fun in the name of charity?
The debate between baths and showers has raged for years, and won’t be settled anytime, soon, but with a fantastic walk-in showering space called the Cannes, Lakes spotted their chance, and have taken it, aiming to raise funds for Comic Relief in the process.
This March, anyone who tweets Lakes (@LakesForLife) using #CannesOfBeanz to guess how many cans of Heinz beans fit into their Cannes walk-in shower (pictured) will generate a £10 donation from Lakes to Comic Relief.
Lakes have mocked up what the Cannes enclosure would look like using the 1,200mm panel and the showering space’s maximum depth of 1,000mm. With a 2m height, the question in how many standard tins of Heinz Baked Beanz would fit inside the showering space?
Managing Director, Bev Brown, says: “Lakes loves to raise money for good causes, and this year we thought we’d do something a bit different. Everyone has had a hard couple of years, and sometimes doing something a bit silly to raise awareness of good causes and much-needed donations is just what is needed.
“We’d like to thank Heinz UK for working with us on this campaign, and we hope that all our media partners, merchants, retailers and colleagues across the sector will join in the fun for a good cause and let us know how many cans they think would fit inside the Cannes walk-in.
“It’s a fantastic cause, so get tweeting and let us know you’re supporting Comic Relief too.”
Any tweets tagging Lakes and Heinz UK (@HeinzUK) using the hashtag #CannesOfBeanz will trigger a donation of £10 to Comic Relief.
Award-winning bathroom brand HiB has partnered with sustainability and carbon recording platform Zellar, as part of the company’s vision to become more environmentally friendly.
To support the business’ journey towards a more sustainable future, HiB will be using the platform to measure and reduce carbon usage as well as support projects which promote diversity and wildlife, ensuring that improvements have a wider positive impact beyond the company’s sites across the UK.
This is the next step in HiB’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) journey, which will see the business focus on its approach to its people, products and supply chain, as well as the environmental impact of its operations. The partnership with Zellar will allow HiB to benchmark carbon usage and record investments and activities in order to improve sustainability across the business.
HiB Managing Director Robert Ginsberg said: “Making a substantial difference to the world we live in is a key part of our vision. To ensure that we are doing our utmost to reduce our carbon footprint and preserve our environment, we have partnered with Zellar, a platform that will allow us to measure, monitor and update this aspect of our CSR data. Being able to track our emissions effectively will help us as we start the next chapter of our sustainability journey as we improve our operations, products and procedures to become a more environmentally-friendly and socially-conscious business.”
HiB is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of bathroom mirrors, cabinets, furniture and accessories. Research conducted by HiB’s in-house CSR team identified areas that could benefit from more sustainable materials and greener energy. As part of the ongoing focus on CSR, HiB has installed a number of electric car charging points, increased the number of electric vehicles used as part of the company’s fleet, invested in solar panels at it’s Inspire House national distribution centre and is working with suppliers to find sustainable alternatives for packaging. But this is just the start of the journey, as work is underway to continue the company’s vision of making a difference, with more changes and improvements on the horizon.
Talking about the partnership, Zellar founder and CEO Gary Styles said: “We’re building a community of businesses that are committed to taking action to become sustainable and to reach Net Zero as soon as they can. There is no reason for any business to delay their efforts to become greener – our platform makes it easy for any company to start becoming more sustainable today. We’re delighted that HiB has joined us on our journey.”
