comment
Monday February 5 2018 THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM, BIRMINGHAM
PAUL ROWBOTHAMField Sales Manager of Meyer Group on the Wirral in Merseyside On the move
Where were you? In the housewares industry I’ve predominantly spent my career working for KitchenCraft for eight years and Creative Tops for the last two years. My role in both companies was national sales manager, looking after the team selling primarily to the independent sector.
And how did you get there? My selling career started in the cosmetic and perfumery market, back in the days before the grey market and parallel imports affected the industry. It was a great 14 years, though it has to be said (of course) that I was younger and slimmer back then. From there, I ventured into the photographic
world with Fujifilm, building my career and becoming sales manager - and obtaining some terrific camera equipment. Photography is still a passion to this day. That was followed by a couple of short term
roles in speciality markets before joining the housewares industry at a great time in its development, with the advent of TV chefs and home cooking becoming a major pastime.
Where are you now? My current role is field sales manager covering the independent sector for Meyer Group. Having recently joined, I can honestly say what a great team they have up there on the Wirral. I’ve received a very warm welcome and while there’s a huge amount to learn, I’m well up for the challenges that 2018 and beyond will bring.
Our new ranges of products, and collaboration with Joe Wicks (see box), will surely ignite major interest in the industry this year.
What’s been the biggest change since you became involved in the housewares industry? Having covered independents for most of my career, it has become evident that grocery multiples, general housewares stores and of course the internet all now want a major slice of the housewares business. All of these sectors are very keen on their
pricing and branding offer which has affected the whole market - and sadly resulted in fewer independents opening in our sector.
What’s been the biggest achievement of your career? Being involved for many years in the early development and evolution of a great family business, which I mentioned earlier.
High point of your career? There have been a number, in various industries and roles, but the one I remember best is securing major branded business in Next, and having to visit and train staff in 180 stores.
And the low point? Leaving the housewares industry to further my career in an alternative market. I quickly realised this was a mistake and longed to return.
During your time in the housewares industry, what products have impressed you most and why? I’m a bit of a knife geek and have enjoyed cooking at home for many years, so I would have to say a sharp knife is essential. I use Global knives and Kyocera ceramic knives all the time. They’re great products.
Which housewares retailers do you most admire and why? That’s a tough one. The big multiples have the finances and expertise to move ahead in today’s ever changing world, especially with the advances in all social media avenues. But I admire the independents who offer
a real alternative, a good selection and a great shopping experience. Those that learn, adapt and continually challenge the market - and then look to evolve - will survive and be around for a long time. And let’s hope this continues.
Name one change you would make to the housewares industry. Shorter shows. I think most are at least one day too long.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the housewares industry? Be honest in your dealings with all your customers. Go back to them when you say you will, and be consistent across the board.
Meyer Group teams up with Joe Wicks Meyer Group has partnered with one of the UK’s most influential food and health experts: Joe Wicks
author Joe Wicks. The Instagram superstar has hosted his own
M 24 |
housewareslive.net
TV series on Channel 4 entitled ‘The Body Coach’ and has written several best-selling books specialising in cooking and fitness. Meyer Group said: ‘The assortment has been specifically designed with Joe, using his extensive knowledge to develop all the tools needed to create healthy, quick and easy meals for his army of loyal followers. ‘From a wide range of cookware items
•
HousewaresLive.net
eyer Group has developed a new range of housewares products with TV presenter and
developed using quality materials such as hard anodized, stainless steel and premium aluminium; to handy tools and gadgets; bakeware; knives and storage items, the range will make it even easier and more accessible for people to become fitter and healthier versions of themselves.’ Branded ‘Joe Wicks’, the products will be
available from August. Joe will be on Meyer’s stand (9F50-G51) at the Spring Fair on Monday February 5. He will give a cookery demonstration at 10.30am and will then take part in a brief Q and A session with the audience.
•
twitter.com/Housewaresnews January/February 2018
PHOTO Conor McDonnell
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56
