Innovative functionality meets unique design – for over 30 years. At OXO we engineer high-quality tools that help revolutionise the way we prepare and store food. Guaranteed to last a lifetime and to make your everyday better, every day.
IWelcome to the first issue of 2023. New years are traditionally a time for positive attitudes, goal setting and looking forward to the opportunity held in the coming 12 months. After such a turbulent few years, though, it’s safe to say we’re all a little more cautious.
2022 was a challenging year for so many of us. The cost-of-living crisis has been felt throughout the housewares industry, and indeed every other industry too. Consumer confidence is falling, and despite hoping that people would still spend over Christmas, recent figures from the Office for National Statistics showed that the volume of retail sales in the UK actually fell by 1% in December.
That sets a worrying scene going into the new year as many will now be watching the pennies even more closely as high bills and inflation continue.
The facts show that this has had a huge impact on retail over the past year, with shop closures reaching their highest level for five years in 2022. Its doubtless that housewares retailers and cook shops would have been among the casualties, which is a blow to our industry.
The British Retail Consortium has warned of a challenging first six months of the year, but hopes to see the economic situation levelling a little in the last six months of 2023.
However, as an industry, we do have a silver lining in all this. While consumers will undoubtedly be spending more time at home, cutting back on extras and lessening spending where they can, the home will now
become more central again.
Recent research by the International Housewares Association showed that 82% of US consumers plan to entertain in their homes at the same or increased frequency in the coming year. 35% said they would entertain more or much more at home than they did in 2022. This creates an opportunity for housewares suppliers and retailers alike to create a value driven offering to accommodate these events with serveware, tableware, bakeware and more becoming key purchases.
The continued cost-of-living crisis will also undoubtedly maintain the sales of energy saving products, and suppliers are already creating innovative new lines to ensure retailers have something to help support those looking to bring down their monthly bills.
As we move into the warmer months, outdoor living is likely to come into its own, as consumers take to enjoying their gardens and further afield with picnics and outdoor adventures.
All of this presents opportunity in what can seem like something of a hopeless time. And if you need any inspiration for the coming months, suppliers are readying some fantastic lines ahead of the industry’s muchanticipated return to Ambiente and Spring Fair over the coming weeks.
We’ll see you on the show floor.
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Fenwick has sold its Bond Street store to Lazari Investments in a multi-million pound deal. In a statement, the company said it would sell the site to fund significant investment in its online business and its other stores.
The closure will decrease Fenwick’s physical presence to eight stores, and follows closures of the Leicester and Windsor stores over the past decade.
Chairman Simon Calver told The Times: “Decisions like this are always difficult, but it is absolutely the right thing for the business. This was about what we need to do to ensure the business is on a really strong financial footing and can survive for another 140 years.”
In a statement, the company said: “Amid the turbulent economic environment, fresh capital investment is required in order to return the business to profitable growth.”
Ken Eden, sales agent for a wide range of housewares brands, sadly passed away in 2022.
Ken was employed by Ewbank, Kenwood and William Lavine, later becoming a sales agent for many key brands, including Procter, Chain Products, Landmann Barbecues, Imperial Housewares, and Lifestyle Appliances.
Working with retailers in a wide range of sectors, including DIY shops, wholesalers, cash and carries and garden centres and was often seen at Spring Fair, Exclusively, Glee and many decco trade shows. He was also a member of the Manufacturers Agent Association.
Industry colleague, Gareth Jones, said: “Ken was a great salesman, agent, and colleague. Sadly, missed by many. RIP Ken you will be missed by everyone.”
After an enforced two-year break, Ambiente is back and will open its doors to visitors at Messe Frankfurt from 3 – 7 February. Ambiente is one of the largest international trade fairs for consumer goods, bringing together buyers and suppliers from all over the world for five days and one man in particular is very excited to be back. Thomas Kastl is the director for dining for Ambiente and said: “Personal exchange is more important than ever at the moment. There is a great sense of euphoria among the exhibitors who will be at Ambiente 2023. They are full of anticipation.”
Thomas continued: “Ambiente is simply the world's biggest consumer-goods fair where exhibitors want to show their new products. They are looking forward to having this fair again as a contact platform, especially internationally.”
Given the global back drop of economic uncertainty and rising costs of energy there will still be around 4,500 exhibitors combined at the three shows, with around 1,770 in the Dining area.
“The Dining area at Ambiente is the big stage for everything that makes cooking and household chores easier and eating more enjoyable,” said Thomas. “From 2023 on, we will be presenting this segment in its entirety in the West Area in Halls 8 to 12. In doing so, we have aligned the new structure to the realities of the market. In the last few years in particular, a number of new, major themes have developed. For example, areas such as baking, storage containers and drink bottles have become much more important. These products are found together in the new structure.”
And although the organisers can not predict the visitor numbers, registrations so far look promising according to Thomas: “After a two-year enforced break, retailers are yearning more than ever for a physical live experience. In the international fairs we have had in Frankfurt already, we have seen a very high level of participation by international buyers. And we expect the same at Ambiente 2023.”
Thomas Kastl, director Ambiente dining.
Richard will take on responsibility for all day-to-day aspects of the business with all key functions reporting in to him. Current md, Roger Murphy, will become executive chairman, where in addition to his board responsibilities, he will take on responsibility for developing strategic plans focused on the future growth and development of the company.
The organisational changes will allow Richard to focus on delivering company objectives and enable Roger to devote more time to the future strategic growth and direction of Eddingtons.
Roger commented: “We have done a very good job over the last three years in managing the business under the inherent constraints imposed firstly by the Covid pandemic and then the global recession and the ongoing war in Ukraine. However, as we enter 2023 hopefully many of these challenges are further behind than ahead of us, we need to raise our heads from the trenches and focus on expanding our horizon once again.
“Richard and I have worked extremely well together for the last 10 years and we will both stay very close to the detail in all areas of our business.”
Richard furthered: “I am delighted to move forward with this new role and looking forward to implementing our joint business plan. A key element required to deliver is that we formalise our senior management team (SMT) structure.
“We are blessed to have many people in our company with years of knowledge and experience and the plan for the SMT both collectively and individually will be for them to take on additional responsibilities in their areas of expertise which will allow me to focus on managing the overall business and delivering our strategic growth plans.”
Richard Walker named as managing director of Eddingtons
Evoking the feeling of dining under clear skies on distant shores, Azure’s mesmerising hue refreshes the spirit and captivates the senses, wherever it goes and however it’s served. Designed to enhance every décor, Azure is available in a range of Enamelled Cast Iron cookware, oven-totable Stoneware and Accessories.
Introducing six fresh, new everyday patterns and two new Christmas designs, featuring the recognisable animal and bird designs from Hannah’s repertoire, the new launch features Wrendale’s bestselling artwork.
The kitchen textiles range will launch with tea towels, aprons and oven gloves, with more products in the pipeline.
range will include tea towels, aprons and gloves
The new designs are all printed on 100% cotton and the packaging is totally plastic free.
Hannah Dale, owner of Wrendale, commented: “We’re really excited about our new textile collection. We’ve worked hard to make sure that our retailers will easily be able to display the new products to show them off to their best effects. I’m really proud of this new textile collection and I can’t wait to hear the reaction from our stockists.”
Ahead of its appearance at Ambiente and Spring Fair, Ultimate Products has announced three key new products for 2023. Featuring an easy to clean non-stick coating, the Go Bake collection from Progress will make a stylish addition to the kitchen. All items within the Go Bake range are part of the Progress promise to plant a tree for every product sold; understanding the importance of sustainability and growing a greener future together.
Buying director Katie Maxwell commented: “Our coordinated Go Bake range is available in a stylish teal shade that is proving popular with consumers, we’re delighted to be showcasing it at Ambiente this year.”
The fun and colourful Petra Sorbet Collection includes mini waffle maker, snack maker, doughnut machine, candy floss maker and more. Ideal for movie nights, the range also includes a popcorn maker and treat maker. Bright and on-trend, you can mix and match across the range or keep it colour coordinated.
Salter is consistently innovating and is now launching its latest Bluetooth Smart Scale and Salter Health app. The scale tracks a range of body metrics including body fat, body water, BMI and muscle mass. The coordinating app tracks trends, sets personal goals and group challenges.
Trading director Emma Greenhalgh, said: “Our brand-new Smart Scale and Health App is a great addition to the Salter scales collection. We are delighted to be able to offer an affordable analyser scale that will enable consumers to develop a deeper understanding of their whole health.”
ProCook expects breakeven profit before tax for FY23.
ProCook cited challenging market conditions driven by heightened pressures on consumer spending and prolonged hot weather as reasons for the decline in revenue. Expectations for FY23 are that revenue will reach £60-65 million, with breakeven profit before tax. ProCook recently revealed a plan to maximise trading performance and profitability, and a cost-reduction plan to reduce operating costs by £3 million a year.
Daniel O’Neill, ceo and founder, commented: “This has been a difficult trading period, reflecting the wider consumer environment and also a very strong comparable period in our last financial year. However, ProCook has traded through tough conditions in the past and we remain confident in our specialist offer and ability to continue taking long-term decisions to build a stronger and more sustainable business.
“We are taking cost actions to manage the current pressures and the business remains well placed to capture increased share of the large kitchenware market.”
Visit UPGS at Ambiente – Hall 9.0 C65, Hall 9.3 D40 and Hall 9.3 E51 and at Spring Fair Halls 8,7,6 Stand: 8B50-D51
Source Home & Gift has announced a comprehensive line-up of over 200 audited, quality manufacturers from around the world including China, India, Peru, Egypt, Pakistan, Ghana, Nepal, Senegal, Singapore, Europe and the USA, who will join the inaugural show, running parallel to Spring Fair.
The event will showcase homewares, furniture, gifts, toys, textiles, packaging and more from over 20 countries, including dedicated country pavilions from China, three Indian pavilions and an exclusive Senegalese pavilion.
Suzanne Ellingham, director of sourcing, Source Home & Gift, said: “It’s important to me that our show is truly international and that we have a fantastic mix of large-scale manufacturing capabilities, balanced with beautiful handicrafts from around the world. What is even more important is that this show is a trusted platform.
“Every manufacturer, or maker, that exhibits at the show is able to work in the UK and supply to Europe to our standards. We are bringing the best global responsible manufacturers to the NEC in February, and we are working with governments worldwide to find the best exporters with good, safe, working practices.
“We are taking the pain out of global sourcing and saving buyers flights around the world by bringing manufacturers right to them.”
The ‘bakeability’ forecast from Mason Cash for the coming year looks at the biggest winners and losers, and what is likely to be the most popular bake for next year.
Cinnamon rolls have been crowned the bake of the year for 2023, due to a 49% increase in search, and the hashtag having a huge 1.4 billion views on TikTok.
The research also found that banana bread wasn’t just for lockdown – it was searched on Google by 90,500 people monthly, with no change yearon-year.
2022 also saw a renewed interest in classic bakes, with a 22% increase in searches for Victoria sponge, and a 23% increase in searches for lemon drizzle. But the real star baker ‘no bake cheesecake’ saw a whopping 49% increase in monthly searches year-on-year.
Diana Halim, brand marketing manager for the Rayware Group, commented: “We’re predicting big things for 2023 and baking. The rise of TikTok opens a world of opportunity for imaginative bakers and we’ve seen a growing popularity of cinnamon rolls and mind-bending cloud bread alike.
“In 2023, we predict that traditional bakes such as Victoria sponge and carrot cake will remain popular alongside these experimental bakes as Brits seek comfort in nostalgic favourites.”
The top 10 bakes were:
Dexam is looking to increase its commercial activity with new staff appointments, product launches and more marketing support than ever before.
Dexam’s managing director, Bryony Dyer, explained: “We have a clear strategic plan and direction we want to take the brand in 2023 and beyond. We also have a strong team across all areas of the business which is why we’ve been recognised many times by the industry in delivering Excellence in Service. This year we’ll be bringing more clarity and focus to our 65 years of experience by creating new staff positions, products and enhanced communications.”
In January Dexam welcomed Joe Leaton as business development sales manager. His role will entail investigating new business opportunities and forging stronger relationships within existing retail chains. Joe is most looking forward to the freedom the role will give him and said: “A little thought scribbled on a piece of paper could end up as a huge opportunity that might previously have been overlooked. Of course there will be a lot of steps in between, and some hurdles to overcome…but that is what I’m most excited about.”
Howard Bradley, commercial director, said: “Joe joins a strong sales team consisting of Bryony Dyer, Julie Ashby, Michelle Levick and me. Julie has worked within the housewares industry for approximately 15 years and re-joined Dexam in May 2022. Michelle has worked for Dexam for as long as I’ve known her and was shortlisted for the Retail Person of the Year Award in the Excellence in Housewares Awards 2022. We’re looking forward to forging new relationships with those in our industry and Joe’s role will be central to this.”
Dexam will also be launching a new trade website in the first half of the year. Marketing manager, Abbie Bleasby-Voice, said: “We’re extremely proud of the level of customer service that Dexam provides and we’re delighted to have received the Excellence in Service Award 2022. With this in mind, we felt now was the right time to re-visit our trade website to ensure our best-in-class service continues online.”
Rebecca Walters has also joined the Dexam marketing team as marketing executive. Her role will focus on supporting the team with the provision of B2B marketing materials including enhanced POS support for retailers.
Dexam also won the Excellence in Product Development award in 2022 and retailers can expect many more launches in 2023 from the brand. New additions include an enhanced terracotta range, newness in the RHS and Kellogg’s licences and a focus on sustainable materials.
Finally, Becky France joins Dexam in the newly created role of product assistant and will work closely with product manager, Helen Boardman. Helen commented: “Becky brings a wealth of experience to the role and will be a great asset to the product development team. We have exciting plans for 2023 and Becky will play an integral part in bringing this newness to market.”
The IHA’s 2023 At-Home Entertaining survey has found that 82% of consumers expect to entertain in their homes at the same or increased frequency in the next year.
The survey also showed that 35% expect to entertain more or much more often than in 2022. Most in-home gatherings will take place from October to December 2023, followed by January to March 2023.
The average gathering will have 10 or fewer guests, said 72% of the respondents, followed by 22% with 11 to 26 guests.
Buffets are the preferred format for food, according to 46%, followed by 22% opting for a sit down meal. Self-serve is also the preferred drink format for 72% of the survey respondents.
The annual Trending Today preview at The Inspired Home Show 2023, will focus on at-home entertaining as a result of the findings. The two-hour pre-show event on Saturday 4 March, will showcase exhibitors and products for at-home entertaining.
Show exhibitors validated within the category are invited to participate in the showcase.
Participation is free and on a first come, first serve basis. Deadline to sign up is 14 February, 2023.
The Inspired Home Show will be held from 4 to 7 March, 2023 at Chicago’s McCormick Place Complex. To register for a show badge, visit theinspiredhomeshow.com/register
As the charity embarks on its milestone year, ceo Bryan Clover reflected: “This year will be The Rainy Day Trust’s 180th Anniversary; something to be immensely proud of. Looking back at my mere seven and a bit years with the charity a lot has changed in that short time, so when you consider what has changed since 1843, it is an immensely different organisation now, helping thousands of people.
“Without a doubt 2023 is going to be huge challenge for so many reasons, not least of which is how many more marbles Mr Putin will lose, and how that will impact on the UK’s economy, your businesses and by definition, your colleagues. I think I can safely say that the mega-high application rate of 2022 will be maintained and could even accelerate further. As always though, we want to prevent problems rather than face cataclysmic issues further down the line, so please encourage staff to get in touch early if they need help. Prevention is always better than cure.
“More people coming to us for help will place our finances under increasing strain so to mark our anniversary we are aiming to place ‘180’ at the centre of our fundraising activities; more of which another time.”
Bryan went on to outline some of his fundraising activities for the year: “For the moment though in the spring I will be embarking on another batch of hikes, this time 6 x 30-mile half-ultras, a mix of organised events with Action Challenge and ‘home-made’ routes; basically one every two weeks.
“We are looking for sponsors for each of the six routes and we are looking for ONE sponsor for the whole lot.
Your brand will be front and centre and in front of 6,000 hikers each time, plus all the social media activity before, during and after.
“So, if you’d like to take the lead on the 180-miler hike, or sponsor one particular route, please let me know.”
The global designer, manufacturer and supplier of kettle safety controls and parent company of LAICA and Aqua Optima, has acquired Billi Australia, Billi New Zealand and Billi UK, in a deal worth £38 million.
Billi is a leading brand in Australia for the supply of superior instant boiling, chilled and sparkling filtered water systems.
The acquisition by Strix supports the company’s growth plans in the water and appliance sectors. Adding Billi to the Strix portfolio will provide the company with full coverage of the hot water dispensing market, alongside its existing LAICA and Aqua Optima brands.
Ceo, Mark Bartlett, said: “As a brand, Billi has a successful history of growth, and we believe that Strix’s existing technological capabilities will enhance and improve upon Billi’s new product development roadmap.
“The acquisition of Billi accelerates our strategy within our water and appliances categories, which is core to Strix’s five-year plan. We look forward to welcoming the Billi team to the Strix Group and working together to grow our combined businesses.”
If You Care (IYC) is relocating its UK logistics hub to the Netherlands, to expand its European operations and to continue building the brand. Meanwhile, Eddingtons will take on responsibility for servicing all UK and Irish customers.
The new arrangement grants Eddingtons extended distribution in the territory, to include all areas of the market, now including the health food and natural products sector, previously serviced by IYC. Eddingtons will develop this sector via established customers and service them from its UK warehouse in Berkshire.
With established sales coverage in Ireland deliveries will continue to be made carriage and duty paid to Irish customers.
Paul Moore, European territories manager for IYC, commented: “Appointing Eddingtons to manage our UK and Ireland business helps us simplify our operations in the UK and reach new markets in our territory. We have already enjoyed a successful relationship with Eddingtons and will cement this partnership further whilst now also being able to realise our potential on the continent in the post Brexit environment.”
Roger Murphy, Eddingtons md, added: “After pioneering and establishing the brand (If You Care) in the housewares sector since 2018, I am delighted to start 2023 with the announcement of this exclusive and extended distribution partnership covering the whole of the UK and Irish market.”
The British Retail Consortium (BRC)-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor has shown sales for the month increased by 6.9%, which was up on the three-month average of 4.4%, and the 12-month average of 3.1%. The figure is compared to December 2021, which saw an increase of 2.1%.
On a like-for-like basis, sales increased 6.5% in UK retail from December 2021, when they had increased by 0.6%.
The rise in sales value, however, masked a significant drop in sales volumes. The figures showed that consumers avoided high value tech purchases, sticking instead to energy efficient household appliances and usual Christmas purchases.
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of BRC, commented: “After an exceptionally challenging year, which saw inflation climb and consumer confidence plummet, the uptick in spending over Christmas gave many retailers cause for cheer.
“Nonetheless, despite the stronger sales, growth remained below inflation, making December the ninth consecutive month of falling volumes.
“Retail faces further headwinds in 2023. Cost pressures show little immediate signs of waning, and consumer spending will be further constrained by increasing living costs.”
Paul Martin, UK head of retail at KPMG, added: “Whilst the numbers for sales growth in December look healthy, with sales values up by nearly 7% on last year, this is largely due to goods costing more and masks the fact that the volume of goods that people are buying is significantly down on this time last year.”
There are four ranges in the SmartStart collection – Classic, Gourmet, Forged and Ultra Forged – each with various construction processes. There is also a clear trade up across the collection within the ranges, from suitability for various hob types, to non-stick coatings and handles.
SmartStart cookware utilises temperature sensing technology with a tick-shaped sensor built into the non-stick coating. The tick glows dark red when the cooking temperature has been reached, allowing consumers to identify the ideal cooking temperature and save energy in the kitchen.
The range features ergonomic Bakelite handles alongside Aeroglide non-stick coating. Gourmet frying pans have straight side walls, offering a 15% greater cooking surface area. They also have a bonded steel base, to enable use on any hob type.
Forged frying pans feature the Aeroglide Pro non-stick coating, making them eight times stronger than standard non-stick coatings. They have a Softtex handle and also feature the straight side walls.
Ultra-forged frying pans come with Inducto induction compatible base providing more even heat distribution. The pans also feature Aeroglide Ultra non-stick coating – 15 times stronger than standard non-stick coating, making it safe to use with metal utensils, and in the oven up to 220 degrees Celsius.
Tracy Carroll joins the Oldham-based supplier from Helen of Troy, where she launched the OXO homeware brand in the UK.
Tracy joined Helen of Troy in 2007, and in 2014 was promoted to associate brand director, which led to her taking over all marketing activities for the OXO brand in the EMEA region.
At Ultimate Products, Tracy will be the company’s first dedicated brand director, a role which will see her lead the group’s brand and marketing strategy, management and communications function.
Simon Showman, chief executive of Ultimate Products, commented: “Her experience at Helen of Troy will be invaluable as we expand our outstanding stable of homeware brands across new geographies and channels.
“Tracy’s arrival will turbocharge our marketing efforts as we seek to build on the incredible success we have had in reinvigorating and growing heritage brands such as Beldray, Progress and Kleeneze.
“I am confident that with Tracy’s help, these successes can be replicated with Salter and Petra across our European markets and beyond. We are all looking forward to working closely with her in the years to come.”
Tracy added: “I am delighted to join Ultimate Products as its first-ever brand director and to have the opportunity of helping it realise its international and online growth plans.”
Total sales for the full year were £304 million, an increase of 36%. Underlying EBITDA increased to £45.6 million, with strong retail sales offset by restaurant trading, which was affected by Covid restrictions.
During the period, the group acquired Johnsons Garden Centre, Boston, and continued its roll-out of Little Dobbies with three new stores in Chiswick, Richmond and Westbourne Grove.
Chairman, Andrew Bracey, said: “Dobbies has continued to demonstrate resilience and progress throughout a challenging period. We remain confident in the underlying strength of the business.”
Above: Total sales for the full year were up 36%.
Ceo, Graeme Jenkins, continued: “During FY22, Dobbies delivered excellent performance through a period of significant change and I would like to thank all of our team members for their continued support and commitment.
“As we navigate challenging and unpredictable trading conditions throughout FY23, we remain focused on delivering great value to our customers.”
Iby Associated Independent Stores (AIS), the UK-based buying and services group for fashion, home, and leisure.
With the brand strapline ‘by buyers, for buyers’, INDX Homewares is thoughtfully curated by a team of retail experts based at AIS, whose product knowledge and retail sector experience combine to ensure visitors to the show enjoy the latest ranges and innovations from a commercially edited selection of exhibitors.
The team organising the show has revealed plans including new product categories and celebrity guest appearances, attendees can expect a trend-driven product showcase, focusing on sustainability and energy saving, bringing together key names in the business across cookware, SDA, tableware and more.
Tuesday 21 February 2023 8.30am – 6pm
Wednesday 22 February 2023 8.30am – 4pm
INDX Homewares registration link: www.indxshows.co.uk/indx-home/homewares/registration
Rachel Breen, head of home, AIS, tells us: “We’ve been busy working with our key suppliers to select the best ranges for the upcoming show and the team has also been busy sourcing new suppliers, whose ranges have been chosen to strengthen and broaden our existing product offer.
“Our members and visiting retailers can look forward to discovering an inspiring, trend-led, and commercially sound product showcase with lots of onsite events, demos, and special guest appearances.”
Newcomers to the February show will include Liga’s design-led eco homewares, Georg Jensen with its Scandi silverware, and D.A.D showcasing its portfolio of domestic appliance brands.
Meanwhile, returning supplier Denby will be launching a new collection of porcelain, cookware extensions and stoneware, EPE will be presenting Hamilton Beach – with a focus on the UK market, and Meyer Group will be attending as the new UK distributor for Cusinart Textiles and Oneida Cutlery.
RKW will be launching Tower Smartstart, a cookware collection incorporating a temperature sensor built into the non-stick coating of the pan, Le Creuset will be
revealing its latest campaign and new cast iron colours, and Taylors Eye Witness will be introducing its new ‘Nebula’ granite effect.
Alongside product launches and demos, this season’s event will also feature special guest appearances including ceramics designer
Keith Brymer Jones, who will be live throwing and supporting his collection of designs with Forma House.
Attracting an enviable footfall which includes AIS members, department stores, leading retailers, high street specialists, gift shops, garden centres, and pet stores, INDX Homewares is a proven must-visit trade show for all home stockists.
Committed to providing a visitor-vetted, order-taking show and a friendly, business and buyer focused environment, INDX
Homewares is an unmissable opportunity for retailers
INDX Homewares is free to attend, and onsite parking is free. Visitors also enjoy complimentary barista coffee and refreshments throughout, plus free morning pastries.
Cranmore Park Conference and Event Centre is home to all INDX trade shows, and is conveniently located in Solihull, West Midlands, close to major rail and road links, and just minutes from J4, M42.
‘Feeling’ Cutlery by Guzzini.
Elegant, well balanced, ergonomic cutlery, ready at any time of day, from breakfast, to dinner or all year round.
There are 12 different colours, to suit every home.
To see more from Guzzini, visit our website.
Former marketing manager Stephen has been promoted to the newly created role of marketing director, making him part of the association’s executive team.
Stephen joined BHETA in 2019, and in his new role, he will continue to support the Exclusively Show, which is owned by BHETA, as well as assisting sector managers in member engagement and recruitment and spearheading new initiatives.
Chief operating officer, Will Jones, commented: “Since the 2020 lockdown, BHETA’s role in supporting members has necessitated a change in focus and promoting Steve onto the executive team will help the association continue its drive to provide market data, retail engagement, educational webinars, and essential lobbying on key issues.”
Executive chairman, Andres Weiss, added: “I am very pleased to be welcoming Steve to the executive team. His insight into digital marketing and experience in sustainability issues gained with his previous employer, Travis Perkins, will help us to shape new initiatives for our members. I am very confident that we have the right talent to deliver continued value for the membership.”
The helpline and business support service covers any questions members have regarding international trade.
Topics covered include excise, customs, computer systems, DEFRA requirements, UK/EU VAT, finance and payment methods, dangerous goods, USA ITAR rules, and managing agents and distributors.
To access the service, BHETA members should contact service provider, Strong & Herd, to pose their questions. Strong & Herd was established in 1995 as a one-stop-shop for any international trade question.
BHETA’s marketing director, Steve Richardson, commented: “In recent years, exporting and importing has become a much more complicated business for UK businesses, with members reporting delays and challenges following new arrangements since the UK left the EU. I’m delighted that BHETA can now offer members an easy to access service giving advice on the issues which can arise.”
The village has 10 affordable stands available to members in housewares Hall 8. The aim of the initiative is to showcase tablewares, housewares and kitchenware in a high traffic aisle, adjacent to the stands of RKW, Ultimate Products and the BHETA BIRA stand. Each stand is 2.5m2. Spring Fair’s housewares hall will serve up the best in culinary products at the NEC Birmingham from 5 to 8 February, with brands exhibiting including T&G Woodware, David Mason Designs, Apollo Housewares and many more.
In addition to the space, exhibitors in the BHETA BIRA village will benefit from a range of fixtures and fittings. Places can be purchased via Gareth Watkins from Spring Fair on 020 3545 9770, or gareth.watkins@hyve.group.
Right: The BHETA BIRA village is situated in the housewares hall 8.
The webinar is designed to help members ensure that their training on due diligence regarding competition law is fully up to speed. Vivienne Robinson, competition law consultant, will present the event. Including a brief introduction to competition law, the webinar will cover the rules themselves and what they seek to achieve, the penalties for non-compliance, and the types of behaviour typically being caught. Breaking the rules in this area can incur fines of up to 10% of turnover, as well as criminal sanctions.
BHETA marketing director, Steve Richardson, said: “Competition law is relevant to all companies and can seem confusing to non-experts. Moreover, the penalties for noncompliance can be severe. To protect colleagues and businesses, it is vital that all employees regularly have refresher training on what you can and can’t do when conducting business relationships.”
Aiming to give delegates an insight into Environmental Social Governance, or ESG, the webinar on 25 January, 2023, will be presented by Alexander Twibill, marketing director of HQTS Group, and Richard Jones, managing partner of Cambridge Sustainable Investment Partners. The webinar will cover the driving forces, including buyer behaviour, new reporting requirements, regulation, business model and strategic impact, allowing attendees to relate the ongoing changes to their roles and commercial activities.
Alexander has been in the supply chain industry for many years and has a deep understanding of the needs and concerns of western companies regarding supply chain management in Asia. Richard has worked in many countries and ran a wholesale transactional bank focussed on trade flows with emerging markets. He established CSIP in 2019.
BHETA’s marketing director, Steve Richardson, commented: “ESG is increasingly high on every company’s agenda from both a sourcing and reporting point of view. I’m delighted that BHETA has the contact to furnish members, with the vital information they need to ensure compliance.”
In this issue, Andrew Goodacre, ceo of BIRA, talks about what he believes 2023 will hold for independent retailers across the UK. It is always hard to predict the future with any great certainty, and yet as we look forward to 2023, indie retailers will be turning their thoughts to the challenges and opportunities that next year (and beyond) will present.
Firstly, let’s be honest and accept that 2023 will be challenging for all businesses, especially retail, as it is one of the first sectors to feel the impact of reduced consumer spending. The UK economy is likely to enter into recession, and retailers will need to ensure costs and cash flow are managed incredibly well. This may mean reducing opening hours to save energy, seeking better value in the supply chain, etc.
At the same time, there needs to be a focus on sales and ways of offering fantastic value, remembering that value is a combination of price, quality and service.
Taking a slightly longer-term view, retailers must look 'through the eyes of the consumer'. What will the consumer want in 2023? In many ways it will be not dissimilar to recent years. I believe the key consumer behaviours will be:
• Local shopping is still strong. Hybrid working is here to stay and this means more people spending more time where they live. Whilst this is an opportunity, the local retailer cannot take it for granted and has to work hard and smart to ensure that local people know what is available. As one successful small retailer told me – “the local shop has to own the 15 miles around the shop”. This means engage, communicate and engage again. Now is not the time to be the best kept secret.
• Hybrid shopping is also here to stay. The power of the internet should be embraced to complement the experience in-store. BOPIS (buy online, pick up in store) will continue to grow and should be part of every retailer’s consumer offer.
• Environmental issues will continue to influence shopping behaviour. This may result in shops offering more services such as repairs and products for hire. The demand for more affordable sustainable products will continue. Importantly the way retailers work will be observed and appreciated. I believe there is still a competitive advantage to be gained from adopting and shouting about environmentally friendly ways of working.
As I said at the start, 2023 will be challenging and will require every ounce of that independent retailers’ renowned resilience, creativity and determination. I genuinely feel that the smaller retailer is better able to adapt and adjust to local market needs than the large chains, and I am confident that independent retailers will continue to be an important part of local communities throughout the UK.
Andrew Goodacre, ceo, Bira (British Independent Retailers' Association)The latest figures released by the Centre for Retail Research (CRR), showing that 2022 saw 17,000 sites across the UK shut up shop, are ‘toxic’, according to BIRA.
The figures are the highest number seen in five years and the closure rate is 50% higher than 2021, while the number of jobs lost has also jumped significantly, with 150,000 posts closed – a rise of 43% in the last year.
Andrew Goodacre, ceo of BIRA, commented: “The number of shops closing is frightening and has accelerated throughout the year. It is due to a toxic combination of reduced consumer spending and rising costs.
“I feel that after three years of dealing with Covid from lockdowns to trading restrictions, and now coupled with the cost-of-living crisis, that indie retailers are worn out and tired.
“We can look forward to lower business rates in England and Wales (but not in Scotland where rates are being increased) as from April this year, but that coincides with the end of the energy support scheme. This report shows the urgent need to retain the energy support or 2023 will see many more shops closing.”
The new Energy Bills Relief Scheme (EBRS) replaces the Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS) and was announced after the government said the current offering is unaffordable. EBRS is effective from March and is designed to offer discounts to eligible businesses, based on usage. However BIRA has highlighted that the current scheme provides a typical small retail shop with £6,400 support with energy bills, while under the new scheme, this falls to £400.
Andrew Goodacre commented: “The chancellor said he wanted to avoid a cliff edge in terms of energy support. But it looks as if he has replaced the cliff edge with a ‘death slide’.
"Last year we saw energy bills for indie retailers increasing by 500%, £15,000 - £20,000 more than usual. These businesses will now have another £6,000 per annum of costs to deal with, at a time when consumer spending has fallen and other costs are set to increase.
"BIRA believes that more needs to be done to support high street shops with rising energy bills, and we would like to have seen higher discounts offered to those businesses that have reduced energy compared to last year."
Above: Andrew Goodacre (left) with industry colleagues at last year’s EIH awards
I can’t believe we made it. Christmas came hurtling at speed this year and I can’t believe it’s over already. It was a real slog to get to Christmas Eve. Getting deliveries in over November with Black Friday spending overloading all the couriers and then Royal Mail strikes again pushing more traffic to couriers, plus all the Brexit shenanigans. It’s a miracle we had enough stock, but we did … mainly.
Having skyrocketed during lockdown, when consumers weren’t able to get their daily speciality tea or coffee fix, the trend for brewing beverages at home has continued apace.
Progressive Housewares sat down with some of the key suppliers to find out what’s new in the sector.
The daily walk to the office, picking up a drink of choice on route may look very different in the postpandemic world with hybrid working becoming the norm, and consumers also watching what they’re spending during the challenging economic climate, but one thing that hasn’t changed is that daily caffeine fix. The difference is that consumers are now perfecting their brew at home.
Claire Budgen, marketing and commercial director at Lifetime Brands, explains: “People are staying at home more, and investing in products that help create the quality of beverages they would expect to enjoy from a high street coffee shop.
“Consumers are also becoming more confident in their coffee and tea making abilities, with two-thirds stating, when asked by Tea and Coffee Journal, that they have perfected their recipes and techniques.”
Marcus Lux, head of Gastroback UK, export and business development, agrees: “There has been a move in recent years to a demand from consumers to have the equipment at home to create coffee and
Lifetime Brands is adding several new lines to its La Cafetiere range. Meanwhile, three new colours have been added to the Pisa collection. Claire explains: “The new colours have been chosen with retailers in mind, they complement the original range, making sure these cafetieres are a sure win and easy to merchandise.”
There are also new stove top whistlers in two colourways to meet the demand for vintage style kettles. The kettles are compatible with all heat sources and feature heat resistant spout cover, lid knob and handle. And finally new Loose Leaf Glass Teapots, fitted with built in mesh filters, to address the growth in natural infusions.
specialist teas. This definitely increased during the pandemic, and while they are returning to those venues, there is still a demand for the equipment to recreate the brews at home.”
The shift to at home brewing may be partly due to challenges faced by coffee shops, says Natalka Antoniuk, marketing manager at Barista & Co: “We are still seeing growth in the at home market. Many coffee shops are facing major challenges at the moment both through the cost-of-
Barista & Co has had a major brand refresh this year and is focusing on education. The brand has also teamed up with experts such as Dhan Tamang, six times latte art champion. When you buy a milk pitcher from Barista & Co, you get access to his latte art classes.
Natalka furthers: “We are massively excited about introducing our new Profitec espresso machines to the retail market through our Hub retail partners. We are going to have live events through the UK with master classes, where we will get anyone making a flat white in 15 minutes.”
living challenges, and the fact they are struggling to get staff due to Brexit.
“We work with many coffee shops and the speciality sector of the market is still delivering a great product for consumers, but many of the chains have hugely variable quality. Due to this, consumers are starting to realise that they can actually make it better. This doesn’t mean coffee shops have no place, but many consumers prefer to make a specialty coffee at home and a visit to the coffee shop is a social event or a break in the day.”
Another factor perhaps pushing the sales of tea and coffee hardware, is the current economic climate. Duncan Singleton, trading director at Salter, tells us: “With the cost-ofliving at the forefront of everyone’s mind, the financial saving that can be made from swapping to home brewed hot drinks in huge.”
James Barton, Tower SDA category director at RKW, furthers: “Increased electricity, food and fuel costs are causing a cost-of-living crisis for UK households, however despite this, the UK small domestic appliance market value grew to £2,896,000 in 2022, according to Mintel. This shows a continued trend of consumers investing in small domestic appliances such as kettles and coffee machines, alongside other SDA.
“The rising cost of living is causing consumers to become more price savvy as costs impact upon spending habits. Over the past two years, consumers have been perfecting their own lattes and cappuccinos, purchasing coffee machines and milk frothers for use at home as a cheaper alternative to trips to their local coffee shops.
“For those who prefer tea, this resulted in investments into more energy-efficient kettles for the home, to fight rising costs.”
Overall, the increase in at-home brewing, is
resulting in a greater understanding. Natalka offers: “The main thing we have seen is that consumers have better knowledge of the category. The big swing is consumers are now appreciating good specialty coffee. Much like 25 years ago with wine, it’s not just a product, coffee is something to experience and enjoy.”
Speciality teas are also a growing trend. Marcus comments: “Teas are increasingly popular and to get the best flavour, the teas need to be brewed at different temperatures. This is not something that you can achieve with a standard kettle alone. Our Design Tea Aroma Plus has eight programmes for teas and their temperature, as well as a hot water function, so it can be used as a standard kettle. Our next level product has 11 programmes and also has a separate schott glass simmering basket for the preparation of meals and baby food. Versatility is key.”
Claire continues: “Tea continues to gain market share in surprising areas. For example, according to foodtruckempire.com, about half of UK tea brands are purchased by millennials.
“However the biggest trend for both tea and coffee right now is healthier options. These usually caffeine filled beverage are now to be a source of good. Consumers are using different blends to support good health and reduce fat with soy and collagen creamers. Blends like mushroom coffee and matcha lattes are becoming more common.”
Personalisation is also
RKW is releasing a brand new colourway for the Tower Cavaletto collection, in line with the trend for natural grounding colours, inspiring calm and tranquility in the home. There is also a new Terracotta colourway for the Scandi collection, available as a 1.7l 3kW kettle.
user to tailor make that brew are key too. So coffee makers that offer a memory function and customisation for instance (all Gastroback expresso machines offer a programmable function), or a product that brews tea at just the right temperature.”
Hot chocolate is also a growing trend. Duncan outlines: “Our Salter Chocolatier sold particularly well throughout the festive period, providing a great, affordable alternative to expensive hot chocolates but still delivering the same luxurious taste.”
In short, whatever your brew of choice, there is now the option to make a top quality version in the comfort of your own home.
Enjoying great tasting water shouldn’t be complicated, it should be simple. That’s why we’ve been delivering our water expertise for more than 20 years, ensuring access to faster, sustainable, healthier water with options to suit everyone.
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The Gastroback coffee product portfolio ranges from filter machines to digital espresso including the Design Espresso Advanced Barista. With 15 bar pressure and a thermo-block heating system which offers warm-up in 1.5 minutes, the result is a great-tasting brew just like in a coffee shop. Suitable for freshly-ground coffee beans, coffee powder or ESE pods and offering speciality coffee like espresso, latte, macchiato or cappuccino, while the integrated hot water function allows for americano, café crème and even tea.
Gastrobak
W: www.gastroback.co.uk
E: marcus.lux@gastroback.de
Lazy Sunday mornings with a cafetiere of coffee – choose from a great range of brightly coloured and stainless steel cafetieres in Siip Fundamentals from Captivate Brands. Match with the huge collection of Siip mugs, with designs ranging from stylish and sophisticated to fun and quirky.
Captivate Brands
T: +44(0)1386 421622
E: info@captivatebrands.co.uk
Introducing the Yeovil 1L kettle as the latest addition to the Haden collection. With a sleek design and convenient compact size, the 1L Yeovil kettle is perfect for small spaces. Featuring the latest technology, this product is an efficient solution for every day and for those looking to boil enough for a cup or two. It is designed with safety in mind and has automatic shut-off and boil-dry protection to ensure it never overheats. It also has a 360-degree base and a comfortable grip handle for easy pouring. Available in putty colour and stainless steel.
Haden
E: info@haden.com
T: +44(0)1909 544 570
W: www.haden.com
Premium German electricals brand, Gastroback, has an extensive range of tea and coffee makers and accessories ranging from filter machines, grinders and kettles to digital espresso machines, tea makers and frothers. The Design Water Kettle Pour Over Advanced coffee maker hits all the right notes on innovation and style. It has a thin ‘goose neck’ spout for an even flow of water, precise temperature setting so it is also good for pouring over loose tea, two-hour keep warm function and an ergonomic handle for good balance during pouring.
Gastrobak
W: www.gastroback.co.uk
E: marcus.lux@gastroback.de
This fun and creative collection by Captivate Brands spans across all types of drinkware including your favourite espresso cup and teacup, to giftable mugs for friends and family. Bringing all the freshest patterns and trend colours to the forefront of your home with printed decals, reactive glazes, raw base and embossed textured patterns. With Siip there’s a mug or cup to suit everyone’s taste.
Captivate Brands
T: +44(0)1386 421622
E: info@captivatebrands.co.uk
W: www.captivatebrands.com
Crafted from hand blown, ultra resilient borosilicate glass with an ergonomic handle, these loose-leaf teapots are designed to retain heat for longer. Fitted with a built-in mesh filter, they allow the tea leaves time to gently infuse the water for the ultimate tea taste. Includes a spare filter.
Lifetime Brands
E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.com
T: +44 (0) 121 604 1111
Retail ready coffee bags that stand out on the shelf
Award-winning electric coffee grinder with 40 grind settings
Brewing equipment for everyone, from beginners to pro's, with a quiz to help your customers know what to choose
For 100 years, Bialetti have been perfecting the Moka. Today, they have a presence in 94% of Italian homes and the love for traditional, Italian stovetop coffee is spreading. Discover the full range from Bialetti today. Introduce an icon.
Founded in 2014 by Tanith Sellicks, the business had humble beginnings around Tanith’s kitchen table. Her passion for excellence, energy and determination has seen impressive growth over the last eight years. And according to Tanith they are only just getting started.
“The future? It’s a huge challenge,” says Tanith. “But, we have an exceptional team, sharing the same goals, enjoying what we do, and together facing each day with strength and optimism. While hopefully having lots of fun on the way.”
Pure Table Top works across materials from strong and durable stoneware to fine translucent bone china. With a focus on improving the production processes involved in making ceramics, the team works with its factories to reuse waste ceramic and glaze materials and incorporate recycled ceramics in to new
Below: Pure uses BCI certified cotton in its textiles.
Below right: Mugs in the RBG Kew collection contain 30% recycled material.
products, as seen in the recent capsule mug collection for the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew. Each of these mugs features 30% recycled content.
Pure Table Top collections feature a range of glassware techniques including pressed glass, blown crystal and soda glass. This another category where the team are actively seeking to create more sustainable products and have recently developed recycled collections.
High-functioning quality is essential in the kitchen setting and Pure Table Top’s textiles are the perfect combination of beautiful prints, weaves and durability. The company works closely with BCI certified
Above: Pure Table Top is a specialist supplier of ceramics, glass and textiles.
Above inset: Founder of Pure Table Top, Tanith Sellicks.
Right: Pure Table Top is now a certified B-Corp.
factories to ensure transparency throughout the value chain. It hopes to go beyond this by increasing the availability of both organic and recycled cotton in 2023.
The Pure Table Top mission is to design and produce quality products that will bring joy to the table for many years, with a commitment to significantly reducing the impact of its operations and increase the efficiencies employed to create its products.
This approach is central to the culture at Pure Table Top and after 18 months of hard work and scrutiny of all of its business practices, the company is proud to have recently received its BCorp certification.
Tanith said, “We have had to shine a light on every aspect of our business to ensure that we are not only meeting, but working to exceed B-Corp’s requirements. I am so proud that we are one of the first B-Corp companies within our sector.”
Pure Table Top is leading the way in design and innovation across ceramics, glass and home accessories, with a focus on improving production processes to bring more sustainable products to market.
Covid restrictions may have ended, but life is far from returning to normal as we enter a new year. 2022 bought continued supply chain issues, while the war in Ukraine resulted in energy price increases, inflation, and a cost-ofliving crisis. PH asks industry execs from suppliers and retail to reflect on another tumultuous year, and to look ahead at what they think 2023 will bring.
“The biggest change has become the biggest challenge and it is falling consumer demand. The cost-of-living crisis has depressed retail sales and this is most housewares businesses. It looks as though the so-called value retailers have prospered, and strong brands have been able to be resilient. It is those businesses in the middle that have found it most difficult, and worryingly this trend is set to continue into 2023.
“In many ways the highlight of any year is seeing independent retailers succeed against the odds Their famed resilience has been tested now for three years (two years of Covid), and yet many of them still find a way forward. An absolute highlight was the fact that in November last year, 50 members were invited to a reception
* What has been the biggest change in the housewares industry in 2022 and what has been the impact?
* What has been the highlight of the year, either for your business, or the industry as a whole?
* What do you expect to be the biggest challenge and the biggest opportunity for 2023?
hosted by the King at Buckingham Palace to recognise their contribution to the UK economy. A great event that highlighted the role of smaller retailers in the economy, in their local communities and on the high streets.
“The biggest impact has been from the cost-of-living crisis, cost inflation, freight costs and supply chain challenges.
Above: SA 2022 highlight for BIRA was seeing 50 members invited to a reception with the King at Buckingham Palace.
“The biggest challenge of 2023 will be dealing with the recession we already find ourselves in – weak consumer demand and rising costs is a toxic combination. Yet, I still believe that local shopping is growing, especially with more people working from home or hybrid, and the positive challenge is to make the most of this opportunity. As one retailer, who has had growth in the past 12 months, said to me: “The local indie retailer has to own the 15 miles radius around their shop – make sure that everyone knows what the retailer has to offer, the service, the quality. It is about being at the forefront of their customers’ minds”. Rise to that challenge and there is light at the end of a dark tunnel.”
“Winning (Multiple or Small Group) Retailer of The Year at the Excellence in Housewares Awards in October was the highlight of 2022 for us.
“The demand for energysaving products will continue to be the biggest opportunity as we enter 2023…. but also the biggest challenge as it’s difficult to know how long the trend will last and therefore how much stock to order.”
“The short answer to this one [the biggest change in 2022] is that we have seen a decline in online sales, the first set back in this channel for a considerable time. To put that in context however, that is a decline against the exceptional expansion in e-retailing in 2021, driven by the Covid lockdowns.
“So, while the impact is something of a review and potential reset in how suppliers get their products to the consumer, it is not evidence of sector shrinkage in real terms. The world has changed so much over the last couple of years with consumer perceptions of home cooking, home baking and home entertaining shifting from something desirable for the dedicated enthusiast to a staple of contemporary life. Many new devotees have entered the market. As a result, the category has been transformed with all aspects of food prep to presentation to enjoyment far more widespread among consumers. No surprise then that the stratospheric expansion of the housewares market is now being succeeded by something of a resettlement to a new norm. Moreover, there is still huge interest in housewares categories across Google, as those ‘good habits’ formed and reinforced during the pandemic are being searched as ever.
“The ‘shop local’ phenomenon which commenced over Covid has continued, supporting bricks and mortar retail and in particular boosting independent sales. The wonderful combination of specialism, assisted purchase and experiential shopping that independent cookshops can provide has really come into its own. Not only for experienced cooks and bakers, but also for those new consumers, who having discovered the joy of cooking, are returning to the market to undertake more complex projects and up-spec tools and equipment
originally purchased in a time of inexperience.
“Looking ahead the biggest challenge of 2023 will be low consumer confidence affected by the continuing cost-of-living situation. Disposable income will be a challenge, but inflation should start to reduce, and if we do enter recession, I would hope it will be shallow and still give suppliers and retailers conditions in which they can make money - albeit growth will be harder to achieve.
“There are also other challenges which BHETA is proactively helping its members to address. Examples include the forthcoming challenges on legislation regarding labelling and waste. Including of course extended producer responsibility legislation (ERP). There are still issues with supply chain, albeit there have been improvements in some areas in recent months. Members are also having to deal with the implications of that long term lockdown fall out for employers –the hybrid working model. Again, not necessarily a problem, but certainly an adjustment and resettlement into our new world.
“As with so many challenges, there are often opportunities alongside them. One of the biggest for the housewares industry is the continued growth of entertaining at
“We’ve
home. This lifestyle shift fits with so many of the predicted trends post-lockdown. It is also a significant way in which consumers will try to save money in the year to come. A viable alternative to ‘going out’ which is a considerable positive for housewares.
“To conclude, let us look at where the market stands. Thanks to its partnership with GlobalData and contacts with other data providers, BHETA has all the statistics and some very well-informed predictions.
“The BHETA Quarterly Market Report shows the value of the housewares sector to have declined by 3.7% year-on-year to the end of September and forecast to be -3.2% lower by year-end. To reiterate, this is of course against the very robust growth in 2020 and 2021, so we are still in a very much net positive situation in the context of the last five years. It is worth bearing in mind that – as an example - Dunelm’s sales in the last quarter were still 36% higher than in 2019 and delivered profit in the year to July of £209m. In no way should we be despondent.
“The key is the need to be super-sensitive to the market and clever in our actions as a result. BHETA can supply reliable market facts, retailer networking and strategic advice including training and contacts to enable members to take advantage of the opportunities that undoubtedly remain.”
Customers are moving back into old habits of wanting to touch, feel and understand the product with in-store experts before making considered purchases. Online has become much tougher as retailers are focusing on obtaining sales.
“As an out-of-town retailer with everything for the home under one roof, we are finding that customers place a greater emphasis on their experience in store as they visit each department, before stopping off at our coffee shops to discuss which purchase they would like to make.
“We have finally begun refurbishments in our flagship Llantrisant store, which we are hoping to re-launch in spring 2023. We are continuing to trade in Llantrisant, but we have exciting plans for the new layout and look for the store. Our customers deserve to be rewarded with innovative displays and exciting new products when we fully re-open the store.
“We will continue to be challenged on the general fuel prices, whether that comes to running our stores, cost of raw materials and cost of goods. Undoubtedly, our biggest opportunity will come from our relaunch of our Llantrisant store and our newly renovated website, which will make our customers’ shopping experience easy yet informative.”
Right: Leekes has seen a greater emphasis on in-store experience.
seen a shift from online back into an emphasis on bricks and mortar.Inset: BHETA has seen a shift in consumer perceptions of home baking, home cooking and home entertaining over recent years.
“The biggest impact in 2022 has been supply chain issues and managing price increases.
“Every part of the day-to-day buying process seems to take so much longer and therefore takes time away from other focuses such as longer-term strategy. Maintaining consistent basic stock/core ranges has been very tricky and leads to customer disappointment and sometimes not being able to advise when we will have in stock. There’s been a reduction in breadth of offer as suppliers focus on their key lines and more limited product development.
“Although a positive has been getting back to trade shows and showrooms and actually seeing physical products.
“The highlight within the industry has been the success and sustained growth on key brands where we have collaborated closely to drive the sales. These include; shop fit investment, virtual cooking demonstrations and full integration of marketing with brands such as Le Creuset and Oxo Good grips.
“A business highlight has been the relaunch of Morleys Brixton in November.
“The biggest challenge for the coming year is the unrelenting price increases that continue while still aiming to offer value (this is not always about price) to our loyal customer base.
“The biggest opportunity for us is in the volume of information we now have about the specific Morleys customer in each of ours stores. We are now utilising this to increase store visit rates and drive up ATV. “I think the cost of going out will drive consumers back into their home and garden to cook and entertain, driving growth within the industry.”
“One of the major changes in 2022 for housewares versus the prior year was the increased competition for share of wallet from categories which had been suppressed during the pandemic and proved highly appealing in the post-Covid world (travel, leisure, fashion and beauty for example). Whilst this was of course foreseen, it was coupled with other macro challenges which made it a hugely unpredictable year for the housewares industry meaning housewares brands needed to be smart and agile to rise to the fast-changing market dynamics.
“Despite this, Denby has much, Denby has
“The disruption caused from early 2020 by the Covid pandemic forced most of our industry to reassess and re-group; the lasting effects are still evident. Working from home has become a constant reality. Prior to this, offices were a hive of activity with extensive discussion, learning and cross-fertilisation of ideas between customer services, sales, marketing and beyond. Now they can be rather quieter and I’m unsure whether this is progress or a retrograde step. Needless to say, at Dexam we work extremely hard to ensure that the same buzz of creativity and excitement is ever present regardless of the location of our team.
“2022 was another unpredictable year so I would say the biggest change has been the need to adapt and I think the perseverance and adaptability of the industry as a whole has shone through. There are a handful that have fallen by the wayside, but the vast majority have weathered the Covid storm to then be blasted by the cost-of-living crisis. There are still choppy seas ahead, but there is a determination very unique to our industry, and we are very proud to have been a part of it for over 65 years. These challenges make the housewares industry more interesting, more diverse and retailers themselves have stepped up to the mark with much success.
“The undoubted highlight for Dexam was winning two awards at the 2022 Excellence in Housewares Awards and being nominated for eight in total. We make no secret of the fact that these awards mean something to us; voted for by customers and key buyers within the industry, we are so proud to be recognised. I have said it many times before, but the Excellence in Service Award is a true reflection of the efforts of the whole Dexam team: from sourcing the product, making sure it arrives in the warehouse, selling it, sending it out – all with a smile and customer service that we think is second to none.
“On a macroeconomic level the biggest challenge to not only the housewares industry, but all those that source internationally, has been the extreme volatility in freight rates, raw material prices, production capacity and FX. Add to that the cost-of-living crisis and the disruption being caused by innumerable strikes, and you have the perfect storm. Having said this, the resilience and adaptability of our industry leads to this challenge actually providing a springboard to creativity and is a true opportunity.
had much to feel positive about in 2022. Harnessing the phenomenal growth of the prior year in terms of our new audiences and the accelerated interest in ceramics and homeware, we enjoyed the hugely successful launch of 'Kiln', the roll out of our Made in England Porcelain ranges and the continued expansion of our home décor portfolio.
“In spring we were featured in the BBC One 'Inside the Factory' programme in which Gregg Wallace showcased our handcrafting skills in the making of a Halo mug and then later in the year Denby was also the subject of regional BBC
“The biggest opportunity for our industry is to ensure none of us are adding to the decline of the planet. In 2023 the money in peoples’ pockets will need to go further and purchases will be considered. One of our main principles at Dexam is sustainability and we are passionate about reducing our impact on the environment. As winners of the 2022 Excellence in Product Development award, we are totally focussed on ensuring that any product brought to market stands up to the rigorous expectations of our retailers and the end user. We see longevity as key and our products are intended to stand the test of time. We are no longer a throwaway society and at Dexam we offer product guarantees, many of them lifetime.”
programme 'We are England' featuring some of our talented craftspeople and team members. 2022 also saw us win a number of awards.
“We anticipate a slightly less erratic sales profile for the industry in 2023 but with inevitable challenges. Those homewares brands who are able to navigate through any choppy waters, will be those who stay true to their values and confident in their
offer, continuing to put the consumer at the heart of what they do whilst remaining agile to wider market factors. Some of the biggest opportunities will be in harnessing consumer sentiment effectively (consumers will be looking for value and versatility, but will also remain astute to making sustainable choices and selecting products which are made to last). 'Buy once, buy well' will become increasingly important.”
Ambiente 2023 will be full of celebrations for US brand, OXO. Not only will the housewares company be revealing a series of new products at the show, OXO will also be celebrating 25 years of its classic salad spinner and a new campaign which sees the company pay tribute to four of its iconic products which have become synonymous with the brand.
A premium brand which offers a wide range of high-quality, longlasting kitchen, cleaning and organisation tools, OXO is guided by the principles of universal design, and is known and loved for engineering tools that fit comfortably in every hand.
The brand looks at everyday objects and activities and sees ways to make things simpler, easier – better. OXO’s journey began with a vegetable peeler designed by its founder for a pair of hands he loved more than his own. When his wife struggled with a
traditional metal peeler, he knew there was a better way, and he created it. 2,000 products later, OXO is still designing tools which make everyday chores, tasks and celebrations better.
For over 30 years, OXO has been globally recognised for its groundbreaking, award-winning universal product design. Starting with the iconic OXO Good Grips Swivel Peeler in 1990, OXO has paired innovation and purpose to create tools and gadgets which make everyday living better, and has won over 100 design awards worldwide. The brand consistently challenges convention, solving problems and anticipating needs with thoughtful, modern design solutions across a range of needs from cooking and
Ambiente 2023 will be full of celebrations for US brand, OXO.
cleaning, through to organisation and storage.
It is this dedication to universal design and commitment to creating tools which stand the test of time, that will form the basis of OXO’s new 2023 brand campaign. Some icons are forever, especially when it comes to OXO tools, all of which offer a long-lasting solution to the way we prepare and store food.
The company’s new brand campaign ‘Icons are Forever’ pays tribute to the Swivel Peeler, Salad Spinner, Angled Measuring Jug and POP collection, putting their unique functionality and timeless universal design in the spotlight. A campaign that shines a light on the OXO lifetime guarantee, ‘Icons are Forever’ will reinforce the company’s uncompromising commitment toward quality, celebrating these much-loved tools as part of our everyday lives. The full campaign will be rolled out on various on and offline channels, demonstrating
why OXO products have stood the test of time and will continue to, forever. Simple, elegant and iconic.
The celebrations don’t stop there for OXO. Eight product design awards later, the Salad Spinner is still one of the brand’s most-loved tools, which has been part of our everyday lives for the past 25 years. With its pump mechanism, patented instant brake button and easy one-handed operation, the OXO Salad Spinner is perfect for drying salad leaves and
greens, and can also drain canned goods, pulses and fruits, making it a versatile all-rounder and ideal companion to healthy food preparation.
Now available in glass and steel, as well as variety of sizes, the range offers plenty of kitchen to table appeal, making food preparation and serving even easier thanks to the elegant glass and stainless steel bowls which can be transferred from worktop to dining table.
A true icon, the OXO Salad Spinner still offers the same original design as it did 25 years ago, drying salad leaves in an instant, and will be celebrated
throughout the year in a series of brand campaigns that reiterate its commitment to universal design.
2023 will see OXO reveal its new and extended, premium Barware collection, as well as a series of new tools to support its grilling and food preparation collection. Join the team on stand to discover new drinks accessories and cocktail making tools, as well as the Grilling Hot Clean Grill Brush, perfect for BBQ season and the new Vegetable Chopper.
With its elegant, ergonomic design, no limiting cord reach and unrivalled blending performance, bamix® sets new standards in the hand blender sector.
Following a successful year in 2022, Samura has big plans for Ambiente and beyond. Progressive Housewares spoke to Roman Kovalov, director of sales, to find out more.
With an extensive range of knives on offer, and new collections being launched regularly, Samura set its sights on expansion into new territories in 2022, and achieved its goal. Roman Kovalov, director of sales, tells us: “For sure, the highlight of 2022 was launching sales in the Middle Eastern market. We are proud to share that as of 2022, we have our sales offices and warehouses opening in both Dubai, UAE (MENA) and Riga, Latvia (EU).”
Following such a successful 12 months, there is still much to look forward to in 2023. The company will kick off its marketing activity with a welcome return to Ambiente. Roman says: “Our Ambiente journey started in 2018. It was our first time at the exhibition and we’ve never fallen in love more. “When Covid came around in 2020, it was a heartbreak for us all, but now we hope to make up for all the time lost. You would want us to be there, regardless of whether you just discovered Samura, or we are already your trusted friend.”
At the show, Samura plans to challenge buyers’ views of knife companies. Roman
explains: “This year we are planning to break the stereotypical vision of what a knife company should be like.
“With an extraordinary stand, a team all ready to go, and knives that you have never seen before, we are planning to meet as many companies as possible to represent our product. We want to ensure that everyone that lost their opportunity to meet us the two previous years, can gladly do it in February.”
There will be new series added to the extensive portfolio over the coming year, as Roman outlines: “As always we are sure to come out with two to three new ranges annually. This year is no different.
Artefact, Pearl oyster knives, Hannibal, and many new series and prospects. All the things that you are so longing for.” As well as new product, there will also be a focus on communications: “This year we
are putting a heavy focus not only on knives but also on the marketing aspect of the business. We want to ensure that product awareness grows together with the brand.
“We believe that it’s not enough to just produce the knives, we are here to bring something fresh and authentic to the knife world.”
Education for consumers is also key: “As we like to say, people do not know what knives should look like. Consumers don’t look for specific designs or functionality. That is why we can tell the consumers what it is they want.”
To find out more, head to hall 8, stand J10 at Ambiente to meet the team.
“We believe that it’s not enough to just produce the knives, we are here to bring something fresh and authentic to the knife world.”
2022 saw Scrub Daddy launch new lines, gain extra retail partners, win awards, and achieve impressive growth. The company is kicking off 2023 with a return to Ambiente. Progressive Housewares sat down with marketing manager, Lucy Williams, to find out more.
“Scrub Daddy has become the number three sponge/scour brand int in UK, rising above some of the most recognised brands in the industry. The brand has taken the social media world by storm, especially on TikTok, gaining millions of views, likes and follows.”
aware of the significance of this for it to be a priority for years to come.”
As 2023 gets going, Scrub Daddy is readying its wares for a return to Frankfurt from 3 to 7 February for Ambiente.. Lucy Williams, marketing manager, tells us: “Scrub Daddy is thrilled to be returning to the first Ambiente show since 2020. Scrub Daddy has attended Ambiente in the past and we are excited to be back. Showcasing our full range of products old and new, plus a bigger, better stand. You will find the Scrub Daddy stand in hall 9.2, stand E29.
“We will have all your favourite Scrub Daddy products, plus details of products launching in 2023. It is going to be another busy year with new additions to the Scrub Daddy product family.”
The company is in a strong position to throw itself into 2023 with full steam ahead. Lucy continues: “2022 was a fantastic year for Scrub Daddy. We launched six new products, including the award-winning Scrub Daddy Dish Daddy. We also saw the brand grow a massive 167% (according to Kantar, FMCG World Panel, 52 w/e basis 20/03/22) with the total category market spend decreasing by over 10%.
Looking ahead, the company will continue to push forwards, but is realistic about the challenges ahead. “2023 is shaping up to be another busy year,” Lucy explains. “We have at least five new products launching which we can’t wait to share. Along with attending Ambiente in February and Exclusively Housewares in June.
“2022 was a challenging year for many businesses, and as we continue to move
Despite a tough year ahead for business as a whole, Scrub Daddy has begun to grow into new territories. Its first expansion into Europe came as early as October 2015, when the range was offered by QVC Germany, followed by numerous drugstore chains that have since had various products in their ranges.
Just over seven years later, and Scrub Daddy is now available in over 10 European countries including Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Greece and Malta.
through the post-pandemic period, we can anticipate challenges through 2023 as well.”
In terms of trends and where the market is heading, Lucy comments: “We can expect to see trends grow around reusable and refillable solutions and general sustainability efforts in general. Consumers are more
The company is now looking to further expand its reach in innovative ways. “Scrub Daddy has developed working relationships with some of the top social influencers in the UK and Europe. One of the most popular is Auri Katariina. Auri cleans filthy houses all over the globe for free.
Inset: The already extensive range of Scrub Daddy products will grow further this year.
Scrub Daddy partnered with Auri in 2021 after we noticed her using some of our products including scrub Daddy PowerPaste.”
With a wide-ranging marketing plan, and ambitious product development strategy already in place, Scrub Daddy is one to watch, and definitely one to visit at Ambiente.
Bring a touch of sophistication to your table with this matt slate grey dish, part of the stunning Peugeot ceramics range, designed and made in Brittany from stoneware that is longlasting, durable and beautifully smooth. Each one delivers brilliant heat retention and offers long-lasting colour and shine. Handles, embossed with the Peugeot Lion, make carrying from the stove to table safe and easy, and the tart dish will be easy to clean once the contents have been devoured.
Peugeot
E: contact-uk@peugeot-saveurs.com
W: uk.peugeot-saveurs.com/en
Ambiente Hall – 9.0 C06
Preserve bubbles with this stylish stopper from the Peugeot Line collection. Only a hermetically sealing stopper can prevent sparkling wines from going flat and losing flavour. Simply slick to lock. Safely and securely re-open your sparkling bottle to continue your celebrations, Available in aluminium and carbon.
Peugeot
E: contact-uk@peugeot-saveurs.com
W: uk.peugeot-saveurs.com/en
Ambiente Hall – 9.0 C06
Captivate Brands is exhibiting at both Spring Fair and Ambiente this year, unveiling a new brand and showcasing a number its best-selling brands. The contemporary, design-led collection, Artisan St, will see additions like new glassware (pictured), while other brands on show with new lines are: Mary Berry At Home with new cookware; Luxe Kitchen with hard anodised bakeware and one of the original brands from Captivate, The Kitchen Pantry, with new tools and gadgets.
Captivate Brands
T: 01386 421622
E: info@captivatebrands.co.uk
W: www.captivatebrands.com
Ambiente Hall 9.0, E10
Joining the Orthex SmartStore Collect recycling and laundry range is the 48l Collect Slim, perfect for space-saving. As with the existing Collect 76l recycling and 48l laundry bins, the new Slim model is made in Sweden using recycled plastic and has a stylish wooden lid. Available with or without separate inserts, making it the perfect waste-sorting solution for any home. The SmartStore Collect Slim comes in white or black, with a 10-year guarantee.
Orthex
T: +44 (0) 7920 236548
E: craig.sammells@orthexgroup.com
W: www.orthexgroup.com
Ambiente stand Hall 9.2 – D05
The Dish Daddy Connector Head for the Smile Face Sponge features all the same benefits of scrubbing with a Scrub Daddy sponge, without having to get your hands dirty. Fit the Scrub Daddy or Mommy onto the Dish Daddy head to clean with better control and range of motion. All while dispensing product directly to the sponge.
Scrub Daddy
T: +44(0)330 2200671
Ambiente stand Hall 9.2 – E29
The quintessence of modern technologies and cultural heritage, the Okinawa series exemplifies Samura’s respect for Japanese knife-making traditions. The corrosion-resistant AUS-8 steel blades have been crafted into classic Japanese shapes. The classical Santoku knife, which also features a beautiful rosewood handle, is sure to become a go-to for mincing, dicing, and slicing.
Samura
T: +371 2000 6855
E: roman@samura.com
W: www.samura.com
Ambiente stand – Hall 8.0 J10
The Barbary & Oak casserole dish has exceptional heat retaining properties, saving energy by keeping food warmer for longer, and keeping food cooler when required. This is essential for consumers during ongoing cost-of-living increases. The dish also boasts a durable high gloss porcelain enamel exterior, which is built to last, and designed for longevity. The new colourway of Camembert Cream was developed to create a highly sophisticated coordinating collection of cookware, with a minimalist aesthetic.
RKW
T: 0333 220 6070
E: sales@rkwltd.com
W: www.rkwltd.com
Ambiente stand – Hall 8.0 M71
Jomafe has added another new dimension to its portfolio with the launch of Keep & Care, a new line of storage ware, which is also manufactured in Portugal. Comprising six different shapes/sizes (with more planned over the coming months) and with capacities ranging from 500mll to 2.4l, this storage ware is hugely versatile and practical. Many features prevail across this range but the key attribute, which has been tried and tested, is that it is 100% airtight. The lids are safe and easy to open and close, and a silicone seal around the inside of the lids can easily be removed for cleaning.
The containers have a temperature tolerance from -40°C to +110°C so are fridge, freezer, and dishwasher safe and can be used in the microwave. They are, of course, BPA free.
Jomafe
E: paul@jomafe.pt
W: www.jomafe.pt
Ambiente stand – Hall 9.0 C64
The Tower T943002HG52 Precision Plus Roaster with Rack features a superior Black Diamond non-stick coating, which provides effortless food release and an exceptional clean. Its aluminised steel heavy duty construction is hardwearing, giving it high abrasion resistance to metal utensils. It features as part of the overall Precision Plus collection, which includes a range of tools and gadgets. These include stainless steel spoons, can openers, and turners, as well as nylon ladles, mashers and more.
RKW
T: 0333 220 6070
E: sales@rkwltd.com
W: www.rkwltd.com
Ambiente stand – Hall 8.0 M71
Inspired by blades of the Ottoman Empire, the Sultan series traditional Turkic Pichak features a 67-layer Damascus steel blade (61 HRC core). The full-tang Sultan also features an ultra-strong G10 handle—normally used for survival knives—with a curved butt for added support. The unique shape of the elongated blade makes Sultan perfect for everything from slicing vegetables to deboning carcasses. Sultan is an all-in-one kitchen tool capable of replacing an entire arsenal of knives.
Sumara
T: +371 2000 6855
E: roman@samura.com
W: www.samura.com
Ambiente stand – Hall 8.0 J10
Bake with ease with these gorgeous Fluted Cake Pans, they are just the thing to make an impressive cake really easily. The interior has a non-stick coating that promises an even bake and easy release. Designed to ensure a perfect finish every time.
E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.com
T: +44 (0) 121 604 1111
Ambiente stand - Hall 9.1 F04 Hall 11.0 B88
In January 2023, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Norway called for a European phase out on PFAS in all non-essential uses. This is the largest phase out of toxic chemicals ever in Europe. In 2025 the PFAS phase out is expected to take effect and its impact will be significant.
Over the years, we’ve become the n°1 in PFAS-free non-stick cooking. That’s because our brands, such as GreenPan and KitchenAid, are built upon dedicated research, technology, and development. We own our factories, where we produce our trademark coating and cookware. This way we can ensure that every product lives up to our exacting standards.
Want to learn more about PFAS-free cooking? Please join us at Ambiente! Visit our stand, have a chat with us and discover our high-performing, healthy PFAS-free brands.
When we say we’re better, it’s because we actually are.
All the benefits of non-stick, none of the nasties!
Understand your body and work towards your fitness goals by tracking key metrics and recording your progress. Set personal goals or challenge friends with the coordinating free app that makes it easier than ever to hit your targets!
The Tala Tea, Coffee, and Sugar Canisters are a great storage solution for any kitchen, ensuring contents are kept fresh for longer. Featuring an embossed solid glass body and an airtight screw top lid. Also available in a classic all-purpose design. Each jar has a generous capacity of 1250ml.
Dayes
T: 01728 833400
E: Sales@dayesuk.com
W: www.dayesuk.com
Ambiente stand – Hall 9.0 C72
Autumn/winter 2023 will see OXO reveal its new and extended, premium barware collection that covers all manner of tasks from popping corks and spirit measuring, through to cocktail making. Combining stylish good looks with ease of use, the collection offers a stand-out collection of drinks accessories and cocktail making tools, and includes some of OXO’s best known products, together with new introductions, delivering a full and comprehensive range.
OXO
T: +44(0)1142420405
E: info@oxouk.com
W: www.oxouk.com
Ambiente stand – Hall 9.1 F07
Eight product design awards and 25 years later, the OXO Salad Spinner is still one of the brand’s most iconic products. With its pump mechanism, patented instant brake button and one-handed operation, the Salad Spinner is perfect for drying salad leaves and greens. It features a clear bowl, nonslip base, a removable basket and lid that comes apart for cleaning. Available in 2.7L and 6.2L, as well as glass and stainless steel for added kitchen to table appeal.
OXO
T: +44(0)1142420405
E: info@oxouk.com
W: www.oxouk.com
Ambiente stand – Hall 9.1 F07
This fabulous multi-purpose pan forms part of Grunwerg’s new Commichef Cast Aluminium Cookware Range. It is 75% lighter than cast iron, features a non-stock coating, offers superior heat conductivity and is compatible with all hobs.
The All-In-One pan does as it says on the label and is suitable for a range of cooking tasks including sauteing, boiling, frying, grilling and more.
Grunwerg
T: +44 (0) 114 2756700
E: sales@grunwerg.co.uk
W: www.grunwerg.co.uk
Ambiente stand – Hall 9.0 B35
The new London mill takes its name from the city of London, where the Cole & Mason brand was founded in 1919. It honours the company’s heritage, as well as looking to the future with a classic, yet contemporary aesthetic. The collection is made from high quality beech wood and features Cole & Mason’s patented Precision+ carbon steel mechanism in the pepper mills and anti-corrosion ceramic mechanism in the salt mills.
DKB
T: +44(0)1252 828055
E: Cust.serv@dkbrands.co.uk
W: www.dkbrands.com
Ambiente stand – Hall 9.0 C24
Extended by demand. Both award-winning and bestselling, the MasterClass Cast Aluminium range has been extended to include the must-have colours for this season and beyond. Realised in a vibrant shade of red for SS23, these dishes are destined to make a statement in the kitchen. All items have a self basting lid and are gift boxed.
E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.com
T: +44 (0) 121 604 1111
Ambiente stand - Hall 9.1 F04
Hall 11.0 B88
Right now, we’re focusing on saving more energy. Brabantia’s HangOn Drying Rack range is designed to do just that. This 15M model can hold up to 12.5kg of laundry and folds flat, for compact storage. Not to mention it is made from 37% recycled material and Cradle to Cradle certified at bronze level. This petite model is a great space saver too.
Brabantia
E: sales.uk@brabantia.com
W: www.brabantia.com/uk
Ambiente stand – Hall 9.2 – A04
Drawing influence from the beautiful English countryside, the Haden Cotswold collection is inspired by quaint village life and traditional English cottages. Featuring the latest technology, Haden has given the retro design a fresh new look with updated finishes in elegant colourways. Discover the new Haden Cotswold toaster design in sage and putty.
Haden
T: +44(0)1909 544 570
E: info@haden.com
W: www.haden.com
Ambiente stand – Hall 8.0 – L90
A staple in Brabantia’s Make & Take collection, this majestical Bento Box is made for separating large volume meals on the go. Helping you keep variety in your lunch box with compartments for fresh salads and snacks – the smart divider doubles as a lifting tray too. This 2L volume Bento Box is available in Dark Grey, Light Grey or Jade Green.
Brabantia
E: sales.uk@brabantia.com
W: www.brabantia.com/uk
Ambiente stand – Hall 9.2 – A04
For over 70 years the traditional Swiss brand Zyliss has created clever products that bring joy to the kitchen. Building on this rich heritage, Zyliss is proud to present a new range of 23 kitchen utensils at Ambiente 2023. The collection is designed as an integrated system with an elegant and ergonomic design. Using an innovative mix of materials, with nylon and wheatstraw, Zyliss is strengthening its sustainable credentials, reducing impact on the environment without compromising on durability.
DKB
T: +44(0)1252 828055
E: Cust.serv@dkbrands.co.uk
W: www.dkbrands.com
Ambiente stand – 9.0 C24
Ambiente offers buyers the opportunity to see the full collection of premium electricals from German manufacturer Gastroback, including the Design Automatic Bread Maker pictured here, packed full of features, with 18 programmes for bread (including gluten-free and rice bread), jam, yoghurt, dough, cake and ice cream. It also features an automatic ingredients tray for nuts, seeds, fruits or chocolate chips and a programme for users to follow their own recipes – a trend high on the agenda for consumers now. It will bake 500g, 750g and 1kg size loaves and types include whole-grain, white, French, sweet and fruit breads. Other features include viewing window and a defrost programme.
Gastrobak
E: marcus.lux@gastroback.de
W: www.gastroback.co.uk
Ambiente Hall 8 G28
Now, with more than 25 million products sold and over 4 billion single-use plastic bottles displaced, S’well has proven the power of personalised style, innovative performance and meaningful purpose, to build movements and transform the way we consume. The Teakwood Collection, featured in a smooth matte finish, resembles mixed distressed woods. All items are sleeved.
Lifetime Brands
T: +44 (0) 121 604 1111
E: saleseu@lifetimebrands.com
Ambiente stand - Hall 9.1 F04
Hall 11.0 B88
Versatility is a key factor in the range of premium electricals on offer from German manufacturer Gastroback and a great example of that is the Design Toaster Digital 4S. The stylish and sleek toaster has a host of consumer-friendly features which have ensured this model is fast becoming a best-seller. There are seven pre-set toasting times for wholemeal, white, bagels, sweet, toast waffles, English muffins or gluten-free bread, with seven degrees of browning – and a function where the user can store up to four favourite settings for type of bread and browning level. Other features include extra-wide toast slots perfect for burger buns, hi-lift to easily remove pastries, larger userfriendly LCD display and a countdown timer showing remaining toasting time.
Gastrobak
E: marcus.lux@gastroback.de
W: www.gastroback.co.uk
Ambiente Hall 8 G28
Media favourite the Caddyo bottle chiller is designed to actively chill warm bottles in minutes and stay cold for 9+ hours. A superb BBQ companion, gift and all year round best seller, the chiller comes pre-packed with a waiter’s friend corkscrew with full SM, video and POS support, own branding also available.
Cellardine
T: +44(0)1256 345560,
T: Independents call Tradestock on 01823 661717
E: sales@cellardine.co.uk
Ambiente hall 9.0 C23
The number one brand for kitchen and bathroom scales in the UK, Salter is consistently innovating and is now launching its latest Bluetooth Smart Scale and Salter Health app. Measuring more than just your weight, the scale tracks a range of body metrics including body fat, body water, BMI and muscle mass. The coordinating app enables you to track trends, set personal goals and group challenges.
Salter
E: sales@upgs.com
W: www.salter.com
Ambiente hall 9.0 - C65 | Hall 9.3 - D40 | Hall 9.3 - E51
CellarDine best sellers, Zap Cap bottle opener, Rouge 02 wine breather models, ChillCore, Wine saver, and Therm au Rouge, all come pre packed in mini CDUs to assist with in-store merchandising and sales support, all packaging is 100% recyclable.
Cellardine
T: +44(0)1256 345560,
T: Independents call Tradestock on 01823 661717
E: sales@cellardine.co.uk
Ambiente hall 9.0 C23
The original and best-selling Zap Cap bottle opener is available in three different formats with own branding also available. A firm press and social media favourite, the opener is also available for personalisation with the stainless steel and matt black available pre packed in a mini CDU.
Cellardine
T: +44(0)1256 345560,
T: Independents call Tradestock on 01823 661717
E: sales@cellardine.co.uk
Ambiente hall 9.0 C23
Inspired by the soft tones of delicate sea shells scattered across the most serene shores, Shell Pink brings a contemporary edge to any kitchen and dining space. A refreshing addition no matter where it’s placed, Shell Pink is available in a range of Enamelled Cast Iron cookware, oven-to-table Stoneware and Accessories.
Featuring an easy to clean non-stick coating, the Go Bake collection from Progress will make a stylish addition to the kitchen. Oven safe up to 220°/Gas Mark 7, the coordinated range is PFOA free and available a stylish teal shade. All items within the Go Bake range are part of the Progress promise to plant a tree for every product sold; understanding the importance of sustainability and growing a greener future together.
UPGS
E: sales@upgs.com
W: www.progresscookshop.com Hall 9.0 - C65 I Hall 9.3 - D40 I Hall 9.3 - E51
Bring the party to the kitchen with the fun and colourful Petra Sorbet Collection. Including mini waffle maker, snack maker, doughnut machine, candy floss maker and more. Perfect for movie nights, the range also includes a popcorn maker and treat maker. Bright and on-trend, you can mix and match across the range or keep it colour coordinated.
Petra
E: sales@upgs.com
W: www.petra-electric.com Hall 9.0 - C65 I Hall 9.3 - D40 I Hall 9.3 - E51
Recently launched in the UK, and taking part in its first Ambiente, this award-winning patented electric spice grinder from the US is set to reinvent the spice-grinding category – at the touch of a button. FinaMill uses interchangeable and refillable spice pods – PRO Plus for everyday and oily spices, Max for large spices and dried herbs – and works as a simple three-stage process. Press the FinaMill down to pick up the FinaPod which then clicks into place; press the button on the top of the FinaMill to mill and finally, to release the pod and pick up another one, just press the FinaMill down again. Available in six colours: sangria, midnight black, sage, salmon, stone and soft cream. The FinaMill comes with two PRO Plus pods, with Max pods and a stacking storage tray available separately.
FinalMill
E: europe@finamill.com
W: www.finamill.co.uk Hall 9.0 F46
The KitchenAid Enamelled Cast Iron casserole collection is robust and durable, combining style and performance, in a variety of colours, ideal for taking straight from the hob or oven to the table. Made of high-quality cast iron which retains heat expertly and once heated stays hot, the range is perfect for searing, browning, frying and slow cooking. Suitable for all hobs, including induction, and oven safe (up to 260°C).
T: +(0)7553 535501
E: neil.mcintosh@cookware-co.com Hall 8 G71
The elegant, durable KitchenAid Glazed Stoneware baking dish collection, in a variety of colours, combines style and performance, ideal for taking straight from the oven or countertop to the table and then, for leftovers, to the fridge using the bamboo lids. Made of high-quality glazed stoneware for even heat distribution, the stackable design is scratch resistant and metal utensil, oven (up to 260°C), microwave and dishwasher safe (not the lids).
T: +(0)7553 535501
E: neil.mcintosh@cookware-co.com Hall 8 G71
Lifetime Brands is excited to announce its attendance at Ambiente this February. The company is pleased to be returning to what is always an important event where it will launch its spring summer collection and connect with retail partners. This year Lifetime Brands has much to shout about, and its stand in Hall 9 will, as ever, showcase its key brands while its hospitality stand in Hall 11 will launch the Mikasa Hospitality range, with all items designed to serve the Horeca sector.
For those who cannot attend Ambiente, Lifetime Brands will also be hosting a spring showcase from Sunday 5 until Wednesday 8 February, in its centrally located Birmingham showroom, which all are welcome to join. With the entire range on display, plus special show offers, there will be plenty to inspire.
Those visiting will see that for this season, Lifetime Brands’ focus is celebrating colour, injecting some vibrancy with an array of fresh, vivid hues across its bestsellers to ensure easy wins for retail
partners. The different tones across the brands have been specifically chosen to complement one another; creating an easy to crossmerchandise, impactful destination in store and online.
One of the highlights is the new collection from S’well, the latest brand to be added to the Lifetime Brands mix. S’well is the original hydration bottle and with over 25 million products sold and over four billion single-use plastic bottles displaced, it
has proven the power of style, innovative performance and meaningful purpose, to build movements and transform the way people consume. Tried and tested, and recently awarded the Coolbrand status, this name is not one to be missed.
Drawing on the success of the awardwinning La Cafetiere Pisa range, Lifetime Brands has introduced three striking colours to the collection.
Embracing the stylish aesthetic of the Italian city the collection was named after, the Pisa collection is a timeless investment for any kitchen space. But La Cafetiere is not just about coffee makers, as the company has noticed a resurgence for stove top kettles. It seems these vintage inspired designs are quickly becoming a must-
have for many. In two timeless colours, the stylish stove-top whistlers will blend into any kitchen space with their neutral design.
Lifetime Brands prides itself on listening to its customers - they said they wanted more and so the company has added more. Both award-winning and bestselling, the MasterClass Cast Aluminium range has been extended to include the colours for this season and beyond, including a striking red, classic cream and a nature inspired blue.
Designed to complement the MasterClass Cast Aluminium range, Lifetime Brands has also extended its range of gloves to include Hunters Green and Cream. These gloves offer the right mix of protection and performance, but have the added benefit of matching other products, allowing consumers to add finishing touches to the heart of their home - the kitchen.
And MasterClass is not MasterClass if there are
no new baking accessories - this season sees the introduction of three cake tins. The Fluted Cake Pans are just the thing to make an impressive cake really easily. The interior has a non-stick coating for an even bake and easy release. All of Lifetime Brands’ award-winning bakeware will be on display, to show retailers the full breadth and range of the collection and how easy it is to cross merchandise to ensure maximum return.
But leading the floor will be the revered KitchenAid, a brand that is there to always inspire. The full collection of tools and accessories will be on display, from the Empire Red to the Birchwood collection - there is an option for every customer.
Then last, but certainly not least, Mikasa is a summer dining set featuring earth tones which are evocative of the natural world, making them an ideal fit for outdoors. Made from recycled plastic, they are super durable and tough. Lifetime Brands will also be showcasing a preview of its Mikasa tabletop collections for AW23.
The products mentioned above are just a taster of what’s in store, there are so many more products featured, so please join Lifetime Brands at either Ambiente in Hall 9.1 F04 or the showroom for food, drinks and inspiration.
Inset:
Housewares have always been a part of the product mix at Bents, but as part of a wider expansion plan in 2014, the company opened a 3,000 sq ft dedicated cook shop. The expansion also included a food hall, children’s boutique, pet place and pet café.
Emma Kelly, head of operations, tells Progressive Housewares: “The location next to our food hall, was carefully designed to maximise the blend between the two departments.”
The food hall is part of company’s experiential offering, which, encourages customers to make a day of visiting Bents. Alongside its staple of quality home grown plants, 60% of which are grown at the company’s own exclusive nurseries, the store features a range of departments. The food hall offers everything from fresh daily produce, continental deli counter and local butchers, to an extensive wine and beer offering from Reserve Wines. This focus on food clearly brings in a ‘foodie’ customer, helping to increase footfall to the cook shop too.
As well as food, the store offers clothing and gift departments, the pet café, and is joined by a range of expert concessions, including the recent addition of Lakeland. Alongside this, the team organises a calendar of regular events, offering something for everyone and drawing in all manner of customers. Emma explains: “It has been great to get back to a full event calendar following the pandemic years. We love hosting customers and run regular
Below:
events in all our departments from children’s entertainment and activities, to gardening workshops, fashion shows, and barbecue demos to name a few.
An engaged customer base also helps drive footfall: “We have a great and active online community and keep everyone updated via our social media channels which include a regular blog on our website, as well as updates on Facebook, Instagram and most recently TikTok,” says Emma.
Further marketing efforts include loyalty mechanisms: “We also make significant use of ‘be inspired’, the Bents privilege club, which enables us to target customers with
Recipient of the Best Garden Centre Retailer of Housewares at the Excellence in Housewares Awards 2022, Warrington-based Bents expanded its housewares offering with the launch of its cook shop in 2014.
PH chatted to head of operations, Emma Kelly, to find out what makes an award-winning housewares offering in a garden centre.Top: Emma Kelly, operations director. The centre offers a range of dining options, including alfresco dining with lakeside views. Bents attracts 25,000 customers per week. Inset: A strong visual merchandising team is part of the centre’s success.
rewards and benefits that most suit them. We hold an annual homewares event in September, which is an exclusive promotion led event for our ‘be inspired members.”
Another key to success is the in-store displays. Emma expands: “We have a fantastic visual merchandising team who put together brilliant, creative displays, bringing together a range of different products, cross merchandising and demonstrating how products can be used together.”
Within the cook shop, which makes up around 2.5% of the total product offering, is a wide variety of brands. Emma continues: “We now stock over a thousand different lines, including a wide range of electrical items, small gadgets and accessories, as well as bakeware, tableware and glassware with some well-known brands as part of our offering, including Morphy Richards, LSA,
“The selection is expansive and customers can find most gadgets the discerning chef would require as well as everything needed to equip the modern kitchen, from must have utensils to stylish accessories.”
Over the past year, regular trading conditions have made a welcome return. Emma outlines: “The past few years have been very challenging for all retailers as we all
location next to our Food Hall continues to work very well, creating extra footfall and interest.”
Throughout the last year, the cost-of-living crisis changed shopping patterns in housewares at Bents, as Emma outlines: “We have seen a distinct trend in the sale of energy saving products and think it has really driven sales on certain lines and products such as slow cookers, air fryers, heated throws, heated dryers etc, whilst there has been a decline in spend of general electricals and high end branded products.”
had to adapt during the pandemic, so it was great to get back to normality during 2022. As such it’s difficult to make comparisons over the past few years, but whilst 2022 was mixed against 2021, it was up on 2019 sales.
“We introduced a Lakeland concession earlier in the year and our cook shop’s
Going forward, there is plenty planned to bring theatre to the cook shop and build on the emerging trends. Emma comments: “We have a dedicated kitchen area within the cook shop where we can showcase and demonstrate our products. We will be continuing with our demonstrations and events and looking at ways we can make the most of our proximity to the food hall and turn the increased footfall into direct sales.
“We will also be focusing on more energy saving products and our newly launched ‘Rooted in Good Value’ range.”
There are big plans for 2023 at RKW. Despite a challenging economic environment, the company continues to focus on both new product development and business development alike. Rod Burrows, marketing director, tells us: “RKW’s continuous investment into its NPI roadmap during 2023 will bring a range of innovative, trend led products to market, from leading brands such as Tower and Barbary & Oak.”
The new products launch in a range of
Established for more than 30 years, RKW offers a wide range of brands across housewares, SDA, floorcare, outdoor living and more. The company is readying its new launches ahead of Ambiente 2023 and Spring Fair 2023 this year and PH caught up with Rod Burrows, marketing director, to find out what’s in store.
sectors, including kitchenware, floorcare and cookware throughout 2023, and include the Barbary & Oak Foundry cast iron collection with new Camembert Cream and Verdigris Green colourways. Rod continues: “Many of RKW’s new
product innovations will be available at Ambiente 2023 and Spring Fair 2023.
RKW is excited to return after last exhibiting at Ambiente in 2020, with a range of small domestic appliances (SDA) and housewares. The Barbary & Oak team is also looking forward to attending Ambiente 2023 and Spring Fair 2023, after a successful European debut at Maison & Objet Paris 2022.”
RKW used its marketing and product development efforts to support consumers during the cost-of-living crisis at the end of last year with its energy saving campaign –helping to educate about ways to cut energy usage around the home. This effort will continue in 2023. Rod expands: “RKW is continuing to support UK households during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis with its industry-first energy saving campaign, providing quality, affordable, and efficient electrical and housewares products for use in the home.”
Helping to inform consumers about the benefits of investing in efficient products, the campaign aims to minimise energy costs during winter and throughout 2023.
“The campaign seeks to help consumers understand the energy consumptions of
appliances to help make smarter energy saving choices,” Rod continues. “And we’ve found that Tower air fryers, microwaves, slow cookers and pressure cookers are all fantastic energy saving products.”
Sustainability is also a key focus, and certain ranges, such as the new SmartStart® collection, can in fact help on both issues. Rod expands: “RKW is committed to delivering climate positive actions as part of the RKW initiative. There is a continued business wide culture of putting environmental impact at the front of all employees minds so they think ‘sustainably first’ in all activities, including NPI roadmaps.”
“SmartStart®, the latest temperature identification cookware collection by Tower, which launched in January 2023 has great sustainability credibility. As the SmartStart® tick icon on the pan changes from a bright red to a darker red, it indicates the perfect cooking temperature for fantastic food results every time.”
The new range allows home chefs to understand exactly when to turn down the heat on the hob, reducing their energy consumption in the kitchen. Rod expands: “The range is also free from toxins and the product and packaging are 100% recyclable, excluding the handles on Classic, Gourmet and Forged.”
As a fast-paced business, RKW is able to adapt to consumer demands. Rod comments: “There is a strong focus on producing top quality products at affordable prices. The team knows consumers are looking at value products, and that is what RKW supplies.”
Alongside product development, RKW also invests in business development, as Rod tells us: “Even in uncertain economic conditions, RKW is continuing to invest in developing the business. One of the most important investments being made in 2023 is introducing a brand new IT infrastructure across the business working in partnership with Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Gold partner, HSO. Visit RKW at Ambiente in hall 8, stand M71, and Spring Fair on stands 8A70-B71, and 8A60-B61.
Right: B&O Verdigris Green – The Barbary & Oak team are excited to head to Ambiente following a successful European launch at Maison et Objet 2022.
Below left: The Tower Cavaletto kitchenware collection features a trending Latte colourway for 2023.
Living a zero-waste lifestyle isn’t for everyone, but our Zero Waste Collection is a great place to start. Made from natural materials, Zero by Full Circle allows you to swap out your sink-side favourites with products that are completely zero waste, without sacrificing function.
Working with a wide variety of brand partners across home, kitchen and outdoor living categories, as well as food service, while also offering key licensed ranges, Eddingtons offers a strong portfolio. Progressive Housewares sat down with newly promoted md, Richard Walker to talk about plans for the coming year and trade show season.
2022 was a solid year for Eddingtons, despite being dealt a number of obstacles along the way. Richard Walker, managing director, jokes: “I think we dealt with everything last year, except for a plague of frogs. It’s been a challenging year, but our Eddingtons sales have held up well, particularly with our independent customers.”
There were also some highlights along the way, as Richard explains: “We were delighted to be nominated for over six awards across multiple categories, so that’s a feat to improve on for 2023.”
Eddingtons recently restructured its organisation, promoting Richard to managing director, while previous md, Roger Murphy, becomes executive chairman. Looking ahead to the coming year, Richard comments: “I would say I’m most looking forward to the challenge of building on our existing successes. I’m in a new role now and the changes we’ve made internally as a business mean we should be even more agile and there is an eagerness in the whole Eddingtons team to take the business forward to new levels this year.
“The extension of our If You Care branded distribution will allow us to reach into new channels, engage with new wholesale partners and strengthen the brand offer. The economies of scale with this additional business will drive efficiency and improve service.”
If You Care, along with Full Circle and Eddingtons’ own Epicurean cutting boards will form an eco-based presentation at Spring Fair this year. The company will also have a Super-home stand at Top Drawer featuring Stelton, Guzzini and If You Care, along with Cidex Candles.
There are further retail growth plans in 2023, as Richard explains: “As well as the If
You Care channel opportunity, additional growth will come from the new brands from Paul Hargreaves, further strengthening our independent portfolio and gifting channel too. Danish Cidex candles will open up additional distribution allowing us to present our other ranges to these new customers from our Stow Green catalogue.” When such brands are taken on, Eddingtons has four criteria pillars to meet. Firstly, the brand must be world class – needing to hold its own on the world stage or be best in class. Second in innovation, brands which develop new products will often be innovators in their area of expertise and at the forefront of trend and product development.
The third criteria is difference – brands should not overlap with the existing portfolio. And finally, they must be good to work with. Richard says: “The CV must read ‘straightforward’, but also friendly, maybe even quirky and lots of fun to deal with.”
Being good to work with is an ethos which starts at home for Eddingtons, and Richard credits the team as the unique point of difference for the company. He explains: “I believe it is our Eddingtons team that sets us apart. The sales team on the road lead by head of sales Louise Ayres, covers the length and breadth of the country. The back-up of a first-class customer service and warehouse crew supports this.”
The strong team offers a fast reaction to
trends and the market, offering another key strength. “As soon as the King’s Coronation was announced a brief was created by Faye, our product development manager, to be brainstormed by the wider team. Product was promptly designed, created, sourced and sampled and tested from our partner factories shipping with stock starting to arrive at the end of this month. I think this sets us apart,” Richard says. Also key to Eddingtons’ position in the market is its evergreen licensed ranges, including brands such as Peter Rabbit, National Trust, The Snowman and Paddington. And this is set to grow: “We are in discussions about one more heritage brand to add to our portfolio which will add a design flair to our Stow Green coordinated ranges – this is super exciting but still under NDA so can’t say more at this stage, but likely to launch in 2024.
“We are moving our National Trust ranges onwards with new designs on worktop protectors, but broadening the ranges to incorporate tea towels, coasters and ceramics. The range extension will include designs inspired by Delft tiles found at the National Trust Property Dyrham Park. We are also extending our The Snowman ranges with new products and a potential new pattern for winter 2023.”
Visit Eddingtons in hall 8, stand 43 at Spring Fair.
Graham Hart, managing director tells us: “We love the ranges and choices our customers can enjoy, from car accessories to dried flowers, from peelers to clothing dye, and much more in between. We love the Coffee Loft, giving our customers even more reason to stay for longer. We love our staff who are well trained, well motivated, thoughtful, caring, inspiring and knowledgeable. We love being a community hub, generating footfall and employment in our small rural town. We love the help we offer local charities. We love how it is constantly changing and evolving, keeping up with trends and reflecting our fantastic customers' needs and wants. And finally, and most importantly, we love our customers, the vast majority of whom are regulars and friends.”
“Each generation has left their mark on the company, steering it in new directions and enjoying many successes along the way. Now employing over 60 staff, Harts is led by a
l The store is 50,000 sq ft over two floors.
l The shop carries 35,000 SKUs.
l Customers baskets are hugely varied. “You just can’t get that spread of products in many shops any more.”
l Marketing is over a combination of online and offline channels. Online via paid advertising, affiliate marketing, email newsletters, social media and influencers. Offline via local and national print advertising.
management team headed by Graham Hart alongside his brother Johnathan, purchasing director David Conduit and company secretary Kirsty Allen, all of whom have many years’ experience working for the company.”
calendar is our open weekend which coincides with the town’s annual cheese festival.”
“I would describe trade as unpredictable, mainly due to the increase in the cost of living. People are being more careful with how they spend their money. That being said, we’ve enjoyed a very busy period from early November through Christmas and into our big sale. In-store has continued to thrive
Inset: The original anvil
tools from the shop’s history as a blacksmith, are still on display.
“No surprises here. Portable heating, air fryers and slow cookers. Any products that offer a more cost-effective method of cooking/heating/running your home. We’ve also had a very strong peak on coffee machines again, both bean-to-cup and filter.”
end slow juicers seem to be struggling, as do top end food processors. Cookware also seems to be dipping slightly compared to previous years.
with many people now preferring to shop locally as general practice, but also the uncertainty over online sales delivery punctuality.”
“We completed a major development project that included a new purpose-built garden department, extra retail space for homewares, additional parking, plus the Harts Coffee Loft which has proved very popular since opening in 2021.”
“We have just finished our series of in-store demonstrations which always prove very popular in the run up to Christmas. Another key event in our social
Established for over 100 years, Harts started life as the town’s blacksmith before evolving into a successful agricultural manufacturing and engineering business. In turn, the company transformed from a traditional hardware store into a country department store, augmented more recently by a major online presence via its award-winning website.
For many consumers, the outdoors has become an extension of the kitchen and living space, with many building a second kitchen al fresco, or enjoying meals outside of the home. PH caught up with some of the suppliers in the sector to find out what’s cooking outside.
Those who enjoy cooking will often extend that hobby into the garden when the weather permits, using barbecues, and grills to trial new techniques and recipes. For keen cooks, the quality of the tools in the garden are as important as those in the kitchen. Nick O’Mahony, national field sales manager for Burton McCall, explains: “Our belief is people will still continue to invest in better quality products that will add value to their time in the kitchen, whether it be indoor or outside.”
The trend towards outdoor living which exploded during the pandemic has had a mixed impact now that life has returned to normal. Alex Frubel, managing director of Tramontina, saw a slow-down in popularity as restrictions lifted: “Actually 2022 was already different if compared to what happened during Covid, so I don’t think the trend will continue. However, I do think things will be slightly better in 2023 than in 2022.
“There’s always room for BBQs, pizza ovens, bistro sets etc. The beauty is that there are many different options out there and customers will always find what fits their needs best.”
Others saw an uplift in 2021 which has continued up to the present. Stephen
McElroy, outdoor living sales director, RKW, furthered: “During 2021, RKW introduced outdoor living products with a strong start under its most popular brand, Tower, which is synonymous with exceptional cooking collections.
“2022 saw a continuation of this trend, with Tower’s range of exciting new BBQs encouraging more consumers to get back out into their gardens to entertain guests, choosing from a range of charcoal, gas and electric Tower BBQ products and accessories.”
Black+Blum saw an increase in sales over the pandemic for its lunchboxes and water bottles, which were being used for picnicking and outdoor excursions. Nick Cornwell, managing director, says: “We believe that this trend will keep growing, not least because people have tighter
The Tower outdoor living range has a variety of new product launches for 2023. Stephen says: “The new Stealth Plus and Stealth Pro BBQ collection feature an all-in-one outdoor entertaining package. Each range provides aesthetically pleasing, premium quality BBQs while providing professional results every time.
“The Stealth Pro Six Burner Gas BBQ has a large capacity cast iron grilling surface suitable for big summer parties with friends and family. It even comes with a mains powered rotisserie kit that rotates to cook a succulent roast chicken with an authentic BBQ taste. The additional back burner can be used to cook delicious homemade crispy stone baked pizzas on the pizza stone included.”
budgets and taking your own food and drink with you is far more economical.”
The trend is also being seen as people return to the office and take lunch with them. Nick explains: “This is being driven by three main factors. First is the increased media noise about the damaging environmental effect of throwaway plastic packaging associated with takeaway food and drink.
“Then there is the ever-growing amount of content in social media and other outlets about the health benefits associated with preparing your own food to take to work. Finally, the economic factors now take on more importance.”
Cost saving is another key aspect in the growth of outdoor kitchens this year. Stephen continues: “As the cost-of-living increases, consumers will look closer to home when planning activities with their friends and families. It is much cheaper to host an evening in the garden using Tower outdoor living products, than it is to go out and meet friends and family in restaurants, bars or other hospitality environments.
“Tower Gas BBQs can be more costeffective than using a conventional oven, especially when cooking for an extended group of people, helping consumers to save money during the cost-of-living crisis.”
Cutting down on energy usage can extend beyond cooking within the outdoor living category. Alex explains: “This aspect is also
considered in items that are easier to clean, for instance, so this means you need less water or less time in the dishwasher, like our dishwasher safe wooden handle cutlery. More designs are now available in this range including steak knives, table items and kitchen utensils.”
Products that are built to last are also key in outdoor kitchens and beyond. Stephen tells us: “To accompany the new BBQs, Tower has launched a range of durable outdoor living accessories, such as the multifunction spatula, tool sets, hot dog roller, double burger press and three-piece pizza tool set.”
Nick Cornwell sees durability as a key trend going into 2023: “We expect people to be making even more considered purchases in this sector than ever before. At Black+Blum we follow the mantra of ‘buy once, buy well’, and design all our products to be robust and to last a lifetime. Consumers are getting tired of buying cheaper products that do not live up to the task and which they have to replace often – which also is not environmentally friendly.”
As well as more durable products, there is new innovation coming into the market. This ranges from the simple but crucial features, as Nick Cornwell goes on to explain: “The importance of genuine leak-proof continues to grow, as some consumers experience being let down by products. At Black+Blum, this is a key part of our
Black+Blum is just launching its new Multi-Function Food Boxes and Bowls range. Nick explains: “These are a more lightweight version of our best-selling stainless steel lunchbox and are ideal for taking out and about, as well as being perfect for all kinds of meal preparation and food storage.
“Made from a specially designed shape of stainless steel they are able to be put into the microwave, as well as boasting a clever lid-lock design which creates a vacuum, and makes them totally leak-proof; meaning no risks of spills in your bag, as well as the food staying fresher for longer.”
product performance which we understand is super important to the consumer.
“There will also be a trend towards lighter weight products as people try to save weight whilst taking their food and drink equipment with them on hikes and adventures.”
And the innovation goes through to the more technological advances, as Nick O’Mahony explains: “The BioLite FirePit gives you control via a free bluetooth app, which means its hugely efficient and can be controlled remotely if required.”
Recently launched in the UK, and taking part in its first Ambiente exhibition (Hall 9.0 F46), FinaMill is an award-winning patented electric spice grinder from the US, and is set to reinvent the spice-grinding category.
Introducing FinaMill - the easiest way to grind spices. Now you can experience freshly ground flavour at its peak by grinding your own spices quickly and easily with FinaMill, an innovative electric grinder that is unlike anything else on the market. The secret? The interchangeable and refillable spice pods.
Simply fill a grinding pod (FinaPod) with your favourite spice and attach it to the FinaMill. Hold the FinaMill over your food, press the button, and a LED light will
■ Interchangeable and dedicated spice pods make FinaMill the only spice grinder offering incremental sales – 72% of FinaMill users have 3+ spice pods at home (*480 users, 12Jan 2022).
■ UK online and offline marketing support including content development (recipes, videos), digital advertising, influencer marketing and PR.
■ Proven success in launch country US – now widely available in major US kitchenware stores like Crate and Barrel, Sur La Table and Williams Sonoma plus kitchen supply, BBQ and housewares stores across US
■ Received thousands of 5 star reviews. In November 2022 FinaMill was included in Oprah’s Favourite Things 2022, highlighting its ultimate convenience.
illuminate a shower of freshly ground spices. You can operate the FinaMill with just one hand—perfect for both multitasking cooks and people with limited mobility.
FinaMill grinding pods double as storage for all your spices and can be swapped in and out with just a couple of clicks. The grind size is also adjustable – mill dried chilli and herbs to a fine grind or coarsely crack black pepper and sea salt.
What’s available?
FinaMill products include:
• FinaMill bundle - FinaMill Spice Grinder + 2 FinaPods PRO Plus
• individual FinaPods – PRO Plus (Grey) for everyday & oily spices, FinaPod MAX (Black) for large spices & dried herbs
• FinaPod stackable trays to store and stack FinaPods.
0ver 10 years ago, having already sold millions of spice grinders a year, FinaMill inventor Alex Liu was driven to create the ultimate spice grinder “to infinitely enhance every cooking experience, and celebrate and connect people through flavour.”
This new spice grinder needed to defend against cross-contamination of flavours, be a quicker and more efficient way of swapping between spices and have a single-handed operation.
These features were virtually
unheard of within the current spice grinding industry. Months of development passed, and the project was put onto the backburner for a year. Then he cracked it: interchangeable pods.
The next 30 months saw Alex and his team race from breakthrough to breakthrough and then at last, FinaMill was born.
“The reaction to the launch was overwhelming,” said Alex. “We had a huge and immediate response from the media, retailers and consumers. Now we are delighted to be bringing FinaMill to the UK and Europe.”
■ Mills whole spices, from plus-size
Visitors to the Kuhn Rikon stand will have the opportunity to learn more about the brand’s launch of its innovative Cooking Club and recipe bank. The Kuhn Rikon Cooking Club on Facebook is a free online resource, developed and run by Maria Vincent, Kuhn Rikon's customer engagement manager and demonstration supremo. The group has been a big success in helping Kuhn Rikon Duromatic pressure cooker owners to get the very best from their pans and can even be referenced by shop floor staff to increase sales.
Kuhn Rikon
Visit: Spring Fair Hall 8, F45
T: +44 (0)1902 458410
E: sales@kuhnrikon.co.uk
W: www.kuhnrikon.co.uk
There will be plenty of new product to see on the Kuhn Rikon stand at Spring Fair this year including the new Essentials Tools. This range of stainless steel cooking tools and gadgets is perfect for the hobby chef and an easy addon sale with cookware. The range includes all of the ‘essentials’ along with innovative silicone tipped spatulas, whisks and tongs.
Kuhn Rikon
Visit: Spring Fair Hall 8, F45
T: +44 (0)1902 458410
E: sales@kuhnrikon.co.uk
W: www.kuhnrikon.co.uk
The Cosmos Collection from Salter provides a fully coordinated and contemporary offering for the kitchen. Elegant and sleek, Cosmos helps to keep all of the countertop matching including kettle, toaster, health grill and blender. Coordinating cookware also available; a great way to update the kitchen.
Salter
Visit: Spring Fair Halls 8,7,6 Stand: 8B50-D51
W: www.salter.com
E: sales@upgs.com
A clean home is a Beldray home, even with furry friends. Having pets doesn’t have to mean muddy paw prints and mess. The Pet Plus+ range makes it easy for pet owners to keep homes clean and fur-free. Use the handy, reusable Gel Lint Roller or Hair Lifter Cube to easily lift and remove pet hair from fabric and upholstery, or choose the clever Rubber Head Brush to lift and trap hair and fur with ease.
Beldray
Visit: Spring Fair Halls 8,7,6 Stand: 8B50-D51
W: www.beldray.com
E: sales@upgs.com
Celebrating 100 years of delivering innovative products to your door, Kleeneze is launching a range of handy cleaning and laundry products which deliver on style as well as functionality. From a soft bristle broom, to a 2-in-1 flathead mop and bucket, Kleeneze’s vast range makes those daily household tasks feel less like a chore.
Kleeneze
Visit: Spring Fair Halls 8,7,6 Stand: 8B50-D51
W: www.kleeneze.com
E: sales@upgs.com
Captivate Brands is exhibiting at both Spring Fair and Ambiente this year, unveiling a new brand and showcasing a number its best-selling brands. Mary Berry At Home is the latest collection created in conjunction with the celebrity chef and additions include new cookware (pictured). Other brands on show with new lines are the contemporary design-led collection Artisan St including glassware; Luxe Kitchen with hard anodised bakeware and one of Captivate’s original brands, The Kitchen Pantry, with new tools and gadgets.
Captivate Brands
T: 01386 421622
E: info@captivatebrands.co.uk
W: www.captivatebrands.com Hall 8, B30-C31
Introducing the new tableware range for MissPrint by Pure Table Top. The teapot features a contemporary take on mid-century pattern design created by the mother/daughter team at MissPrint.
The Dandelion teapot is made from fine china and is a key piece in the Hero Breakfast collection. Featuring a distinctive dandelion design and sunshine yellow lid, the teapot is designed to bring joy to the breakfast table.
The breakfast range also features side plates, cereal bowls, mugs, milk jug, egg cups, kitchen textiles and placemats and coasters.
Pure Table Top
W: www.puretabletop.com/trade
E: sales@puretabletop.com
T: +44(0)116 344 0035
Halls 8,7,6 Stand: 8E20
TG Woodware’s iconic Pride of Place collection, with its distinctive design, has a new colourway introduced this year. Pride of Place Blue is a stunning addition to the range and mixes well with Pride of Place Grey and White, creating a unique collection.
Stylish and unique these ceramics are handcrafted by highly skilled producers, utilising special techniques to authentically reproduce timeless vintage styled enamel storage.
TG Woodware
T: +44 (0) 1275 841841
E: sales@tg-woodware.com
W: www.tg-woodware.com
Halls 8,7,6 Stand: 8E30-F31
Lemon Grove is the new homewares range from the Lesser and Pavey. Designed by the in-house art department, it is of fine quality with each item gift boxed. The range is very comprehensive with fine mugs, jugs, coasters, placemats, trays, kitchen textiles, teaspoon, and fork rest. This bright coloured range is perfect for any summer setting and throughout the year.
Lesser and Pavey
T: 01322 279225
E: sales@leonardo.co.uk
W: www.leonardo.co.uk
Hall 5, Stand D10-E11
Lesser and Pavey brings quality tabletop items to the home this Christmas 2023. Festive fragrances, traditional illustration of historical Christmas scenes, and quality festive gifts that can be enjoyed every year; for more than just one Christmas. Spring Fair will see the launch of many new Christmas themed products, from homewares to festive candles and diffusers, and decorations. Quality tabletop not only serves an important role at Christmas time, but also makes the table and the home look very festive. The Christmas ranges feature nostalgic scenes. Other items include fine mugs, gift sets, placemats and coasters, melamine trays and accessories, laptray, doorstop and cushion.
Lesser and Pavey
T: 01322 279225
E: sales@leonardo.co.uk
W: www.leonardo.co.uk
Hall 5, Stand D10-E11
The BRUS carbonator cuts down on the need for single use plastic bottles which harm our environment. With BRUS, you can make sparkling water or soda in reusable bottles at home.
The carbonator’s cylindrical shape is classic to Stelton’s unique design, with an ultra-slim body and top. Intuitively, turn the knob clockwise to adjust the amount of carbonation, and counterclockwise to release excess gas. The carbonator comes with a BRUS bottle.
BRUS carbonator is compatible with standard threaded 425 g / 60 L cartridges of food grade CO2, thread size M 18 x 1.5.
Eddingtons
T: + 44 (0)1488 686572
E: sales@eddingtons.co.uk
Kiln Green, Denby’s new stoneware collection launching in March 2023, has an aura of tranquility and serenity in a calming colour palette of soft white and celadon shades of green. Along with place setting pieces, are organic asymmetrical serving pieces, vases and home fragrance. Reflecting the colours found in nature, the simplistic handcrafted beauty of Kiln Green offers tactile glazes, each piece having its own unique identity. Produced from local Derbyshire clay, Kiln Green is intended to be used and enjoyed every day, and has all Denby’s attributes being dishwasher, microwave, freezer and oven safe and is made to Denby’s ethical and sustainability criteria.
Denby
T: +44(0)1773 740770
E: TradeB2BAdmin@denby.co.uk
W: www.denbypottery.com/trade
Cooking over coals has never been easier, whether you’re at the beach, in the garden or camping in the great outdoors. The Lodge Kickoff Grill features an adjustable draft system making pivoting from hot-and-fast, to low-and-slow cooking simple. To make cooking even quicker, the grill has already been pre-seasoned in the foundry, making it simple to use and easier to clean.
Eddingtons
T: + 44 (0)1488 686572
E: sales@eddingtons.co.uk
Denby’s new porcelain tableware pattern, Constance, is Inspired by nature in a subtle pattern of mixed foliage characterising spring blossom and summer fields in shades of soft grey. Handcrafted in England at Denby’s Derbyshire Pottery, Constance has the appearance of fine porcelain in a delicate warm grey colour palette, but also has the versatility and durability for which Denby is renowned. Constance tableware suits a wide range of interior styles and can be used every day and styled up for every dining occasion. Available individually or gift boxed in recyclable packaging.
Denby
T: +44(0)1773 740770
E: TradeB2BAdmin@denby.co.uk
W: www.denbypottery.com/trade
The Halo Mini Protector effectively repels mosquitoes and midges by creating a 20m2 zone of protection. There’s no need to use smelly, harmful sprays or oily lotions, thanks to Thermacell’s synthetic allethrin formula, inspired by repellent extracts found in plants. With no noise or scent, this compact, portable, and stylish device looks great on any patio. Designed to be easy to use, simply insert the heat-activated mat, a butane cartridge, and turn on. Great for the garden, park and even the beach, the Halo Mini comes with 12 hours of protection included (with refills available to buy separately).
Burton McCall
T: +44(0)116 234 4611
E: sales@burton-mccall.com
Burton McCall have entered into an exclusive agreement with NoStik to distribute its range of reusable, non-stick liners, shelves, and trays throughout the UK. The transition to Burton McCall will commence from Wednesday 1st February 2023.
NoStik has been proudly manufactured in Belgium since 1990, with sustainability being their key selling point for 30 years. The bake liner, their very first product in 1990, is a reusable alternative for disposable parchment paper. Since then, they’ve developed a wider range of reusable baking and protecting liners, shelves, trays, and bags for use in the kitchen and on the BBQ. Whilst NoStik products are renowned for being reusable, they also enable consumers to cook without added fats, and keep kitchen appliances clean.
Burton McCall
T: 0116 234 4611
E: sales@burton-mccall.com
With a new warehouse and showroom in Wolverhampton, as well as a dedicated staff member out and about merchandising and running in-store demos, Kuhn Rikon is growing its business through building relationships. PH caught up with managing director, Edward Margetts, to find out more.
Kuhn Rikon has been producing high quality cookware and practical cooks’ tools to inspire the world of cooking since 1926. It is still a family business; owned by the Kuhn family and making cookware in Rikon, Switzerland. The company has been in the UK since 1980, with business mainly focused on the Duromatic pressure cooker and tools, gadgets and knives. But in the last two years, the company has made a big push on increasing its profile in cookware, as managing director Edward Margetts explains: “About two years ago we relaunched the cookware ranges for the UK market. We went to the factory in Switzerland and said that we needed products specifically designed for the UK market. There are subtle differences in cookware in central Europe and the UK, for instance the UK prefers saucepans with a single handle, while customers in Europe prefer two.”
Kuhn Rikon now has a full and broad assortment of cookware for the UK market covering two main demographics: everyday family use and the hobby chef. “We’re breaking the perception that Kuhn Rikon just does tools, gadgets and knives,” says Edward. “With our expanded and comprehensive cookware ranges we can now offer something for all retailers.”
This commitment to retail extends through to retailer support, with a new
warehouse and showroom in Wolverhampton. “We’ve always had warehousing in the UK, but it was limited to what we could hold,” comments Edward. “But now with our new 13,000 sq.ft warehouse everything is stocked in the UK. We have a very high stock availability and can ship any quantity straight away.”
Among the new products coming out in 2023 is an expansion of the New Life Pro recycled aluminum range. The New Life range is genuinely green. The pans are made in Kuhn Rikon’s Swiss factory using entirely European waste aluminium, so production miles are minimised. Using recycled aluminium reduces emissions and uses up to 95% less energy. And the high-quality recycled aluminium used to make these products is stronger and more durable than new aluminium.
New in the product range are saucepans with glass lids, cooking pots with glass lids and a serving pan with a glass lid. These products will launch at Spring Fair in February.
But the one thing Edward is most proud of is the new showroom, as he enthuses: “We now have a facility where people can come and see our entire product range in a brand new bright and spacious showroom. There’s a real vibe for getting back to in-person business, so we really want to see people in our showroom so we can demo products and build relationships.”
Inset: Kuhn Rikon offers a wide cookware range designed specifically for the UK market.
Building relationships is key in growing business for Kuhn Rikon. “We’re going back to basics and launching a 3m-wide retail display for in-store. Our merchandiser Maria Vincent will come and set it up for you, train staff in our products and come in and do in-store demos for customers. Getting retail staff engaged in the product is
absolutely key,” says Edward.
He continues: “As a company, we’re going to be much more visible, with exhibits at Spring Fair, INDX Homewares and Exclusively Housewares. We’ll have a fully kitted out retail display, so visitors can see what it looks like. We’ll be running demonstrations so potential customers can see what we can do for them in-store.
We’re really investing in our customers. Our commitment to our retail customers doesn’t just stop when they place an order. It continues onto the shop floor and beyond.”
