Located at the centre of one of the UK’s most important manufacturing areas, Dove Valley Park is a 200-acre industrial site that plans to continue expanding. The site currently houses occupiers such as JCB, Marstons and Rolls Royce, with further planning consent granted for up to 2.3 million sq ft
The KönigOutdoor showroom at the Sky House Design Centre is the perfect starting point for any outdoor living project. The three beautiful outdoor kitchens, made with the most durable materials, feature an array of configurations and design elements to provide inspiration to the interior or garden designer, architect and homeowner.
LED Flex strip lighting from Knightsbridge – one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of wiring accessories and lighting – is ideal for creating ambient lighting in kitchens, bedrooms and other spaces deserving colourful and energy efficient accents. Flex’s low profile – from 1.5mm to 2mm – and 8mm width makes
On Tuesday, 6 February the British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) held its 2024 conference in Westminster. This annual event, hosted at the prestigious QEII Centre and sponsored once again by Senstec and Quooker, is a crucial forum for professionals, industry leaders and experts from the KBB industry to gain
This year’s edition of the Workspace Design Show (27 – 28 February 2024, Business Design Centre, London), presents an impressive array of features. These bring together some of the industry’s leading designers, architects and built environment partners and range from an immersive forest stage to an interactive lighting installation. Altogether,
The British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) today announced the itinerary for its highly anticipated annual conference, scheduled to take place at the QEII Conference Centre in Westminster on Tuesday 6 February 2024. The event is set to bring together professionals, industry leaders and experts from the kitchen, bedroom and
The UK’s market leader for taps and showers, Bristan, has released its new Environmental, Social Responsibility and Governance (ESG) report which shines a spotlight on its water-saving products – including its new Eco Start technology. The report outlines the organisation’s commitment to sustainability with one of the key focuses being
Zentia, the UK’s market leader in complete ceiling solutions, is excited to announce the grand opening of its Innovation Centre in Gateshead, created to contribute to the growing vibrancy of the North East as a national hub for architects and specifiers seeking inspiration and industry networking. Zentia, previously part of
In the face of a challenging year for many in the kitchen manufacturing industry, the UK’s number one furniture supplier to independent kitchen retailers, Omega invested in their future throughout 2023 with a comprehensive new development programme including, the introduction of new brand Novus, new door ranges, on trend paint
Jewson Partnership Solutions (JPS) has collaborated with its sister brand George Boyd to deliver kitchen and bathroom solutions for providers of social housing.Renowned in the industry as an ironmongery and door set specialist, George Boyd is undergoing an expansion project which will see it add a wealth of new products
Located at the centre of one of the UK’s most important manufacturing areas, Dove Valley Park is a 200-acre industrial site that plans to continue expanding. The site currently houses occupiers such as JCB, Marstons and Rolls Royce, with further planning consent granted for up to 2.3 million sq ft of infrastructure and services, creating much-anticipated investment and employment in the area. Zentia, the UK’s leading ceiling solutions provider, has been asked to deliver a fit-out for a new build office within the industrial estate. The project scope includes meeting rooms and bathrooms that demand a seamless integration of aesthetics, functionality, and acoustic performance. CHALLENGE The client expressed a desire for a classic office visual while incorporating a burst of colour in the breakout space and meeting rooms. The challenge was to execute a visually pleasing design that complemented the new build while meeting the client’s specific colour and acoustic requirements. The project is currently in the installation phase, with main contractors Roe Developments overseeing the construction and East Midland Ceilings responsible for the ceiling installation. SOLUTION To meet the client’s visual preferences and acoustic performance requirements, Zentia opted for Aruba square tiles throughout the office space. The Aruba Colour tiles were installed in the meeting room in two different shades of grey, whilst the bathrooms featured Aruba hH tiles, ensuring a visually clean and bright ambience but with enhanced humidity resistance. The choice of Aruba tiles was driven by their excellent acoustic performance, providing a conducive environment for meetings and workspaces. Additionally, the availability of colour variations in the Aruba range appealed to the client and allowed Zentia to create a seamless transition between the standard white tiles and the specified shades of grey, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing design. The decision to use Zentia’s Aruba tiles not only met the client’s creative expectations but also provided an easy installation process, allowing for efficient progress on-site. The benefit of Zentia’s solution was evident in the visual distinction achieved in the main areas, fulfilling the client’s vision of a classic office space with a touch of colour. Installer for the project, Barry Deane, Director at East Midlands Ceilings said: “It’s always exciting when the customer wants a change from the standard types of suspended ceiling designs. It made the project extremely interesting to be involved with, and the Aruba coloured tiles look amazing, giving a modern and visual twist over the standard install. The quality of the materials was also fantastic, with everything being manufactured and delivered to suit the project requirements perfectly.” As installation progresses on-site, Zentia remains dedicated to delivering not only visually stunning office spaces but also an environment that enhances acoustic comfort. The office fit-out at Dove Valley Industrial Park stands as a testament to Zentia’s commitment to excellence in ceiling solutions, setting a new standard for modern and visually stunning office environments in the industrial sector. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The KönigOutdoor showroom at the Sky House Design Centre is the perfect starting point for any outdoor living project. The three beautiful outdoor kitchens, made with the most durable materials, feature an array of configurations and design elements to provide inspiration to the interior or garden designer, architect and homeowner. The displays show a variety of sintered stone finishes, from classic marble to more industrial styles, and showcase various design options including handleless doors and drawers, a corner unit for a Kamado grill and a bar-style seating area with a granite worktop and cedar circular support. Pictured is: Königstone island with 12mm handleless drawers in Estatuario (large-veined marble effect). KönigOutdoor is a sophisticated high-end solution for aspirational outdoor living. Combining luxurious sintered stone surfaces with a durable weatherproof structure, a KönigOutdoor kitchen provides the look of an indoor kitchen; with the ability to withstand the elements outdoors. Each kitchen is made to order here in the UK, allowing the customer or designer to create a unique outdoor kitchen to exacting specifications. The outdoor kitchens can also be designed to accept mains services gas, water and electrical services for fully functional outdoor kitchens, outdoors. To start planning a dream outdoor kitchen, please contact Sky House Design Centre to arrange an appointment. Pictured is: KönigOutdoor island with 12mm handleless drawers in Estatuario (large-veined marble effect), 100mm black granite plinths, 30mm feature circular granite and B/Bar with cedar support. For further information on KönigOutdoor, please email info@konigstone.co.uk or visit www.konigoutdoor.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
LED Flex strip lighting from Knightsbridge – one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of wiring accessories and lighting – is ideal for creating ambient lighting in kitchens, bedrooms and other spaces deserving colourful and energy efficient accents. Flex’s low profile – from 1.5mm to 2mm – and 8mm width makes it ideal for hard to access, space-constrained locations, while its 3Mself-adhesive backing tape provides a robust and durable fixing. Waste is kept to a minimum because installers can cut the LED Flex to fit at 50mm intervals and use the excess elsewhere, re-connecting it to other strips of product where necessary. Both single and four colour (red, green, blue and white) versions are available, supported by dedicated drivers, controllers and profiles that offer a quick solution to most indoor installations. The colour-changing RGBW LED Flex are available with smart technology so they can be controlled through Knightsbridge’s proprietary SmartKnight app. The company has also introduced ‘COB’ single colour seamless strip lighting. COB stands for Chip on Board, meaning the LED diodes are built directly into the printed circuit board. The seamless strip lighting is ideal for illuminating indoor spaces since it offers a larger lighting area than traditional alternatives, resulting in no dark spots and perfect colour consistency and uniformity. The COB strip lighting is supplied with 150mm of cable and is dimmable with the appropriate control. Rated IP20 for indoor use, the 12V single colour range offers colour temperatures from 3000K to 6500K and light outputs from 510lm per metre upwards in white only. Its 24V equivalent is also for indoor use, but available in various colour temperatures of white as well as red, blue and green. The colour-changing models are rated at IP20 for indoor use and IP67 options are also available. The Flex collection encompasses 52 versions in 12V and 24V, in lengths from one metre up to 50 metres, depending on voltage and colour; all with a three-year warranty. A full range of accessories – from aluminium mounting profiles through to controllers, connectors and drivers – is also available. For further details of the Knightsbridge innovative wiring accessories and lighting products, please visit www.mlaccessories.co.uk or call 01582 887760. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
On Tuesday, 6 February the British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) held its 2024 conference in Westminster. This annual event, hosted at the prestigious QEII Centre and sponsored once again by Senstec and Quooker, is a crucial forum for professionals, industry leaders and experts from the KBB industry to gain insight, discuss key topics and make valuable connections. BiKBBI’s 2024 conference theme was “Driving industry change through collaboration”, and speakers and panellists shared opinions and experiences and debated the sector’s challenges and opportunities, across a series of engaging presentations and discussions. The event was hosted by Hannah Prevett – Deputy Editor of The Times Enterprise Network – who expertly guided activities and thoughts throughout the day. The conference was opened by CEO of BiKBBI Damian Walters, who celebrated the existing collaboration from sponsors, retail partners and stakeholders which drives positive change for the sector but warned there is still much to do and a need for greater collaboration from the whole industry on the subject of education, standards, compliance and sustainability. Results of the BiKBBI Installer Survey 2024 were also unveiled at the conference. Keynote speakers included Fergus Harradence, Deputy Director of Infrastructure Construction & Rail at the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) who shared the UK government’s predictions for 2024, highlighting that, despite the continued challenges with a shrinking workforce and the continued skills gap, there was growth potential with both consumer and business confidence increasing which would ultimately benefit the construction sector. Emily Wallace, CEO of the Trade Association Forum (TAF), also presented on the topic of the value of associations and what can be achieved when industries work together to influence policy, face challenges and grow skills. Industry insight data from AMA Research was presented alongside key findings from the Bathroom Manufacturers Association’s Understanding the Bathroom Installer Survey 2023 and kbbreview’s Retailer Survey 2024 as well as BiKBBI’s own Installer Survey 2024 – all highlighting collaboration as the pathway to success. BiKBBI hosted a sustainability panel featuring Phil Viner from Triton Showers, Tom Reynolds from the BMA and Lyrical Communications’ David Ventris-Field to discuss how to reach and support KBB installers better on the topic of sustainability. BiKBBI’s Installer Survey 2024 highlighted that 1 in 5 installers have noticed an increase in customers asking for recommendations on environmentally friendly products, and over 50% of installers feel the industry is not doing enough to reduce its impact on the environment. Diversity Ambassador for BiKBBI, the Rt. Hon Stuart Lawrence, supported by James Moore from the MoD’s Careers Transition Partnership and Apprentice Plumber Sophie Maguire, led a workshop on why and how the industry should work towards improving diversity and inclusion, highlighting the benefits that a diverse workforce can bring to businesses and the industry. Stuart Lawrence then asked delegates at the conference to sign BiKBBI’s ‘Charter for Change’ – a commitment to work with BiKBBI to explore a revised inclusivity recruitment strategy– with 55 businesses pledging their support for the charter. Education and apprenticeships also remained on the 2024 conference agenda, being a key area of focus for BiKBBI as a route to tackling the current skills gap. A panel of experts, led by Hannah Hockley from The Apprenticeship Partner, included Wickes Apprenticeship Programme Manager Connie Collett, independent retailer and apprenticeships champion Simon Taylor, KBB apprentice employer Paul Miles, and previous KBB apprentice Elliott Perry. The panel discussed recent advances in apprenticeships and training, including the new standalone Apprenticeship Standard for Fitted Furniture Installers reinforcing that access to education and training is integral to resolving the skills shortage, with Hannah Hockley highlighting the importance of the whole industry recognising the severity of the situation and the importance of support from all areas of the sector. Damian Walters, CEO of BiKBBI, said ‘The BiKBBI annual conference has seen significant growth over the past three years, and it is not by coincidence. The attendance of so many brands and businesses here today is representative of the importance that installation plays to the whole industry and recognises the role that we fulfil as an institute. The theme of the day was collaboration, which was demonstrated by the 160 delegates who took time away from their busy day jobs to come here, join the conversation, and support this vital sector of the KBB industry. But now the real work begins, and we will continue to drive the agenda on the topics raised today with the support of our corporate sponsors, retail partners and wider stakeholders. I would like to personally thank all contributors, speakers and panellists involved in today’s event, along with all of the delegates who, through collaboration, made the event a success and have given the industry a solid platform to move forward from.” The results from the BiKBBI Installer Survey 2024 can be view here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
This year’s edition of the Workspace Design Show (27 – 28 February 2024, Business Design Centre, London), presents an impressive array of features. These bring together some of the industry’s leading designers, architects and built environment partners and range from an immersive forest stage to an interactive lighting installation. Altogether, 2024’s features represent an incredible spectacle for attendees of the Show, which has become a must-visit event for office interiors professionals since its inception in 2021. Design Talks Lounge by Gensler Curated by Gensler, the design concept for the Design Talks Loungeat the Workspace Design Show 2024 delves into the overarching theme, ‘Bloom – Exploring the Thriving Ecosystem of Work Life’. This engaging experience aims to shed light on and draw inspiration from nature, encouraging a positive perspective on the evolving worlds of work and life. Established and independent furniture consultants, Hunters, have partnered with sustainably-focussed firms to help bring this feature to life. Office plant suppliers Exubia plays a central role with eye-capturing biophilic design, seamlessly merging live planting with innovative moss elements. This is complemented by a 66-metre custom printed fabric backdrop provided by Kvadrat, featuring a forest design and crafted by the incredibly skilled seamstresses at Waverley. The flooring, supplied by Material Hangout and Mogu, known for its bio-based solutions, reinforces the Design Talks Lounge’s environmental ethos, with the furniture carefully selected from Andreu World, a firm renowned for its commitment to sustainability, with products made from biodegradable and compostable properties. To extend the life cycle and impact of the design of the feature, post-event will see the redistribution of the plants and furniture featured, while the fabric finds a second life in charity projects, ensuring a sustainable and waste-free approach. Entrance by tp bennett Architectural, design and planning practice tp bennett is responsible for the design of the feature at the entrance to Workspace Design Show 2024. A series of elegant columns is arranged in a conceptual maze, serving as a symbolic representation of the intricate ecosystem of work life. Each column embodies the essence of ‘Bloom’ – another nod to the event’s theme. They stand tall and varied, representing the diversity of experiences and challenges often experienced in life and at the same time, the structures symbolize the growth, development and resilience of trees in a garden. As you navigate through the varied paths, you encounter different sculptural pieces created by Aectual, each one illustrating a delicate bloom, composed of recycled sustainable materials and textured 3D printed surfaces with accompanying organic biophilia provided by Vantage Spaces and Planteria, both experts in biophilic design & office planting. Vantage Spaces are using preserved foliage, which is harvested sustainably using natural dyes to preserve the stems and ensure they are VOC free, 100% natural & biodegradable. Overall, this conceptual maze invites contemplation on the organic nature of career progression, encouraging individuals to appreciate the beauty and resilience inherent in their professional journey. The feature is finished with a captivating modular, linear lighting system, subtly integrated by iGuzzini with contemporary textiles from Kvadrat and specialist plant lighting from Soltech. Insights Lounge by BDP Both the Occupiers Forum and the Sustainability Works sessions will be held in the Insights Lounge, designed exclusively by Lisa Pasi, graduate interior designer with international architects practice BDP. Also addressing the theme of, ‘Bloom’, Pasi’s concept will focus on the symbiotic relationship between man and nature. Hunters once again play a key role in terms of sourcing sustainable partners. Pasi’s vision promotes the purpose and validity of using natural materials within the workplace environment. To this end, wood and stone are not only aesthetically pleasing and foster a sense of warmth but also positively influence mood and well-being. Says Lisa Pasi, “Despite being constantly reminded of our connection to nature through our senses, this association tends to diminish when we find ourselves indoors, surrounded by artificial light and synthetic materials. Therefore, by adhering to biophilic design principles, the inclusion of natural materials will establish a connection to nature, bolstering concentration, creativity, and job satisfaction.” The sustainable credentials of flooring firms Mogu, Material Hangout and Ege carpets also underpin the concept. Overall, visitors to the Insights Lounge can enjoy a tactile experience and encounter the customisable options and unique qualities of natural materials, which are sure to enrich the overall comfort and engagement of individuals in the workplace. Living Workplace lighting installation Jason Bruges Studio presents two interactive lighting prototypes on the theme of ‘Living Workplace’. Each prototype is a 1:1 section of an existing, full-scale permanent artwork. The first prototype, called Energy Dynamics, originally developed for the Ukrainian energy company DTEK, uses technology for storytelling. The second prototype entitled The Experience Tunnel, was created for trading firm XTX Markets and introduces interaction to foster human connection and collaboration. Recharge Lounge M Moser Associates has crafted a captivating oasis featuring the exquisite Pebble Rubble modular seating range from Italian furniture manufacturer Moroso that transports us to a serene forestscape. Amidst the lively atmosphere of the Workspace Design Show, visitors will have the opportunity to be immersed in nature-inspired surroundings, where tranquillity and rejuvenation seamlessly converge. As the name suggests, the Recharge Lounge offers an opportunity to reset, refuel, recharge with Electrosonic also partnering to provide an experience where architecture, storytelling and technology connect in this enchanting retreat. Collectively, these features will form a key part of Workspace Design Show 2024 and promote meaningful discussions around the future of workplace, particularly in terms of best practice in sustainability. Register now to attend Workspace Design Show. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) today announced the itinerary for its highly anticipated annual conference, scheduled to take place at the QEII Conference Centre in Westminster on Tuesday 6 February 2024. The event is set to bring together professionals, industry leaders and experts from the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom sector for a day of insightful discussions, networking opportunities and knowledge-sharing. Themed “Driving industry change through collaboration“, the 2024 conference will explore the power of collaborative working in shaping the future of the KBB installation industry, recognising BiKBBI’s ambition to foster collaboration within the sector in order to drive positive change, innovation, and growth. Hannah Prevett (pictured), Deputy Editor of The Times Enterprise Network, will return for a second year as conference host, bringing a wealth of business insight, knowledge and experience to the role of facilitator for the event, which promises a programme of engaging discussions and thought-provoking presentations. Keynote speakers on the day include Fergus Harradence, Deputy Director of Infrastructure, Construction & Rail at the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) who will provide an update on the UK Government’s 2024 predictions on the home improvement sector, and Emily Wallace, CEO of the Trade Association Forum (TAF), will delve deeper into how collaborative industries unlock greater opportunity to thrive. The itinerary also includes panel discussions, presentations and workshops from a range of presenters and businesses including BiKBBI patron Stephen Metcalfe MP, AMA Research, eBay, Triton Showers, the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, the Ministry of Defence and BiKBBI Diversity Ambassador, Rt. Hon Stuart Lawrence. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insight into industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices, as well as participate in interactive sessions aimed at enhancing collaboration within the KBB installation community. Wing Commander Calvin Bailey MBE, Commanding Officer of 70 Squadron RAF will also share his knowledge on leadership and teamwork, as well as anecdotes of his life experiences as a Royal Air Force Detachment Commander. ‘We are excited to bring together professionals from across the KBB industry at the BiKBBI Annual Conference 2024’ commented BiKBBI Director of Marketing & Communications, Michelle Daniels. ‘This event provides a unique platform for collaboration, enabling attendees to exchange ideas, share experiences, and collectively contribute to the advancement of our industry. We are confident that the content of the conference will inspire meaningful partnerships and drive positive change within the sector.’ Registration for the BiKBBI Annual Conference 2024 is by invitation only, however limited delegate availability is available, with those interested advised to contact leon.rowland@bikbbi.org.uk for more information. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK’s market leader for taps and showers, Bristan, has released its new Environmental, Social Responsibility and Governance (ESG) report which shines a spotlight on its water-saving products – including its new Eco Start technology. The report outlines the organisation’s commitment to sustainability with one of the key focuses being the innovation of energy and water-saving products. Recently, Bristan has introduced innovative Eco Start technology on bathroom taps, which saves energy by having cold water as the default central start position of the tap handle. This means that hot water is only activated when the tap lever is moved from the central position, so your boiler is not unnecessarily fired up. Also featured in its comprehensive water-efficient portfolio are pre-fitted flow limiters, infrared taps that automatically turn off when not in use, and BREEAM-certified self-closing ‘push button’ taps. As with all Bristan products, the water-efficient range is rigorously tested to comply with key regulations and industry requirements, so that specifiers can have complete confidence when working on a project. Plus, Bristan’s UKAS-accredited lab recycles 90% of the water used to carry out endurance testing of our products, further demonstrating its commitment to sustainability. Craig Rendall, Bristan Group Specification Director, comments: “Whether working in the housebuilding or commercial sector, we understand that sustainability targets are a key consideration when specifying for a project. That’s why we’re proud to offer our range of water-saving products, to make it a trouble-free decision for specifiers every time.” The ESG report also details the wider sustainability commitments of the wider Bristan Group. As a zero-to-landfill company, it has extensive measures in place to ensure that approximately 295 tonnes of waste produced each year are recycled, reused or repurposed. What’s more, Bristan Group is in the process of having 1666 solar panels installed on the roof of its Tamworth-based head office, which is expected to generate 600kw/hour of electricity to support business operations and will equate to a CO2 saving up to 111,292 kgs per annum. With a clear roadmap of sustainability initiatives behind them, Bristan Group’s products can be bought with confidence and trusted to help reduce the UK’s overall carbon footprint — one tap or shower at a time. Bristan Group’s Environmental, Social and Governance Report can be found here. To discover Bristan’s range of water-saving products, visit the website here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Zentia, the UK’s market leader in complete ceiling solutions, is excited to announce the grand opening of its Innovation Centre in Gateshead, created to contribute to the growing vibrancy of the North East as a national hub for architects and specifiers seeking inspiration and industry networking. Zentia, previously part of Armstrong Ceiling Solutions, faced a significant rebranding in 2020 to separate itself as an innovative, quality brand. Zentia continues to offer the same high-quality products, but builds on its digital approach, and works to continually strengthen partnerships, connections and communication. As a part of Zentia’s mission for strengthening connections, it has created an Innovation Centre at its grid plant on the Team Valley site. It features a large conference space that can accommodate up to 60 people and is equipped with AV facilities for presentations, as well as a thoughtfully designed ceiling grid that displays Zentia’s latest product innovations. The centre also has two smaller meeting spaces that can accommodate six and 10 people. The Mayor of Gateshead, Councillor Eileen McMaster, will be officially opening the Innovation Centre in early December, signifying its importance as a regional and national milestone. Graham Taylor, Sales and Marketing Director at Zentia said “We are excited to open our new innovation centre and provide architects and specifiers with a space to experience our products in a real-world setting. We believe that this centre will provide a space where architects and specifiers can come to learn about our products and how they can be used to create acoustically comfortable and visually appealing spaces.” Mayor of Gateshead, Councillor Eileen McMaster, said: “Zentia’s new Innovation Centre is a fantastic facility and a testament to the company’s significant investment in the Gateshead area. It’s amazing to see a UK manufacturer creating local job opportunities for our communities and I’m confident that this will open up lots more opportunities for Zentia.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In the face of a challenging year for many in the kitchen manufacturing industry, the UK’s number one furniture supplier to independent kitchen retailers, Omega invested in their future throughout 2023 with a comprehensive new development programme including, the introduction of new brand Novus, new door ranges, on trend paint colours and the launch of a custom panel service. Omega CEO Simon Barber said, “2023 was an exciting year for Omega with the launch of Novus, many great new product developments across our brands and a range of initiatives designed to support our retail and contracts partners. As a business we continually look to the future believing investment in product, technology and people is what drives us forward. The start of 2024 will see the completion of a £1 million project to improve our sales processes to benefit both our contracts and retail customers.” Once complete the investment will deliver an even more efficient service solution for all customers and a bespoke commercial system for contracts partners. Novus is the modern leading-edge solution in handless kitchens characterised by a clean, and sleek aesthetic, manufactured in the UK. The minimalist kitchen was designed to compete with the handless kitchen trends established by European suppliers and offer customers flexibility and choice whilst ensuring ease of installation and guaranteed delivery. Speaking about the launch Omega Retail Sales Director James Bishton says, “It’s exceeded the expectations of both our new and existing customers who are looking for a UK sourced option for contemporary kitchens. Without exception all prospective customers visiting Omega for the first time to see the brand, showroom and facility wish they’d done so sooner.” Omega have expanded on the launch phase of Novus with the introduction of Custom Size Panels across all of their brands, allowing customers to order the specific panel requirement to suit any design giving them greater flexibility, reduced waste on site and lower costs. James Bishton continues, “Novus has helped us capture new customer sales and seize market share since its launch in Summer 2023. Our new partners have also successfully engaged with our existing painted shaker kitchens, to widen their own offers aligned to core UK market trends.” Commenting on the impact of Novus on the Contracts Market Omega Contracts Sales and Operations Director Katy Snow said, “Since the launch in May 2023, Novus has generated great interest from our contract developers on both housing developments and Major Project apartment schemes, including Berkeley Eight Gardens Development the first to showcase Novus in volume. Novus differentiates our contract customers from other developers in their area which demonstrates a value-added proposition to potential home buyers. Omega’s robust supply chain, large stock holding and excellent design and manufacturing capabilities in the business has also supported several new customers from site takeovers delivering kitchens on very short lead times.” In support of their customers, in October 2022, Omega pledged that their prices would remain fixed for 16 months providing partners with much needed price stability during a time of economic uncertainty and challenges. The latest announcement sees that price freeze extended until 5th April 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Jewson Partnership Solutions (JPS) has collaborated with its sister brand George Boyd to deliver kitchen and bathroom solutions for providers of social housing.Renowned in the industry as an ironmongery and door set specialist, George Boyd is undergoing an expansion project which will see it add a wealth of new products and services to its offering.Kitchens and bathrooms are the first phase of this venture, with a dedicated contracts team sitting under newly recruited Business Development Director, John Moss. He will work alongside Brian East, Kitchen and Bathroom Solutions Director, who has over 35 years’ experience of supplying kitchen and bathroom products into the UK marketplace.JPS and George Boyd will now work together to offer councils and housing associations an elevated service, enabling them to easily source kitchen and bathroom solutions that help them achieve compliance with the Decent Homes Standard and other regulations.Scott Cooper, Managing Director for JPS & George Boyd, said: “Our ongoing mission is to continually identify relationships that deliver, elevating our service to help customers create safe, modern and comfortable homes. George Boyd’s heritage and experience in the market as product specialistsprovides the perfect platform for the expansion into kitchen and bathroom solutions. Working together is a very natural fit and we know that our synergy is going to help local authorities and housing associations across the country to create spaces that their residents can be proud of and reassured by.”John Moss added: “Kitchens and bathrooms solutions are the first in a line of product ranges we plan to add to George Boyd as part of our expansion project, with all being made available to the social housing sector via JPS. “At our core, we are ironmongery specialists but there is an opportunity to evolve our brand and help customers to better navigate the various challenges they’re facing today.“The combination of our new product ranges with JPS’ footprint in the market means we can increase our reach while providing high quality solutions that help those who need it most.” For enquiries, visit the JPS and George Boyd websites. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
