KITCHEN SINKS, TAPS &WASTE DISPOSAL UNITS Bernhard van Ommen
1810/SCHOCK: Strengthening the Complete Sink Solution
Bernhard van Ommen, Managing Director of 1810/SCHOCK, speaks to BKU Editor Matt Broughton about new launches, strategic partnerships and why supporting independent retailers remains central to the company’s ambitions.
the combined business continues to build on its product offering and strengthen relationships across theUK kitchen sector. “The past 12 months have been extremely
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positive and progressive for 1810/SCHOCK,” Bernhard says. Product development has remained central to that progress, withmultiple launches across 2025 and into 2026 designed to broaden the company’s appeal. Alongside new products, the business has
invested in people. “We expanded our team of Regional Sales Managers, reinforcing our commitment to providing strong face-to-face support for partners across mainland UK,” Bernhard explains. That investment has allowed the company to gather more direct feedback from retailers and better understand how it can support their businesses. “By working closely with our partners, we are well-positioned to provide the products, tools and service they need to grow.” Another milestone was the brand’s return to
the industry’s biggest stage. KBB Birmingham marked 1810/SCHOCK’s first appearance at the exhibition since the acquisition of 1810 by SCHOCK in 2022. “It provided an ideal platform to showcase the strength of the combined 1810/SCHOCK offering and unveil new innovations,” Bernhard says. The show also saw the official announcement
of a new collaboration with Quooker®. SCHOCK CRISTADUR® sinks are now
he past year has been one of momentum for 1810/SCHOCK, as
approved for use withQuooker boiling water taps, opening up new opportunities for premium kitchen specifications. “This gives retailers greater flexibility when specifying high-end kitchen solutions,” Bernhard notes.
Design flexibility and new launches Product development remains a major focus heading into 2026, with several launches reflecting feedback gathered from retailers and designers. “2026 is set to be an exciting year for 1810/SCHOCK,” Bernhard says. “Many of the new products we unveiled at KBB Birmingham are a direct response to what our customers and the wider industry have been asking for.” Among the highlights is the new Kaia CRISTADUR® sink range, designed with installation flexibility in mind. “The Kaia range can be installed using three different methods, including flushmount, and is available in five popular CRISTADUR® tones,” he explains. “This provides designers with far greater flexibility when planning kitchen layouts.” The company is also building on the success
of previous innovations. Following the launch of the HEX undermount range in 2025, a new development in the AXIX family will arrive later this year. “The new AXIX features a HEX-textured base, which demonstrates our forward-thinking approach to sink design,” Bernhard says. Elsewhere, the portfolio continues to expand
with a forthcoming range of Fireclay sinks, while the tap category is also evolving. A notable addition is the 1810 Dutrarre twin-lever pull-out
tap. “It features a self-contained, self-retracting design and ourQFit system for quick and easy installation,” Bernhard explains. The SCHOCK Talia tap joins the line-up with a
slimmer profile and five finish options designed to coordinate with SCHOCK waste kits. Colour also remains a key part of the design story, with the introduction of the new CRISTADUR Magnolia shade alongside the increasingly popular Aged Brass finish for taps.
Built on materials and service For Bernhard, the strength of the 1810/SCHOCK proposition lies in a combination of material quality, engineering and design variety. “Our SCHOCK quartz composite sinks are
made in Germany and offer exceptional choice in both designs and colours,” he says. The CRISTADUR material in particular has built a strong reputation within the premiummarket. “It’s known for its silky-smooth, easy-clean surface and rich, long-lasting colour palette.” Durability is another defining feature. “Its stain-
resistant properties help maintain the appearance of the sink for longer, and its recent approval for use with Quooker boiling water taps further strengthens its appeal.” The 1810 stainless steel range offers a complementary proposition focused on engineering integrity. “Most of our sinks are produced from 1.2mm-thick, 304-grade stainless steel,” Bernhard explains, while selected premium models feature Insusound® coating to reduce noise and help retain water heat. Looking ahead, the company’s ambitions
remain closely aligned with the needs of independent kitchen retailers. “Our overarching goal is to be the most supportive and reliable partner for independent kitchen retailers,” Bernhard says. “We want to provide a complete solution for sinks, taps and accessories, supported by outstanding service.” That service includes extensive stockholding
and next-day delivery direct to site across mainland UK, ensuring retailers can rely on the brand when project timelines are tight. “Exceptional service sits at the heart of our
support for customers,” Bernhard concludes. “By listening to feedback and working closely with our partners, we can continue refining our offering and help retailers grow their businesses.”
22 BKU APRIL 2026
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