Sponsor Spotlight The lifeblood of our Industry
Alvin Biggs, managing director of RAK Ceramics tells us why it’s flying the flag of the independent retailer at the BKU Awards
What is it that you like about this event in particular? We have sponsored these awards from the beginning and like the fact that the BKU Awards brings together the whole industry to celebrate innovation and hard work. It’s great to see new and existing retailers gaining recognition alongside individuals, manufacturers and brands.
Why have you chosen to sponsor the Independent
Bathroom Retailer of the Year category? We have sponsored this category from the inception of the awards. It is the life blood of our industry and has some of the most hardworking and knowledgeable people within this sector. Through our comprehensive distribution network we work with over 1,500 retailers and it is a privilege to be involved in an award initiative that recognizes all their efforts.
Has the market changed much over the past year and if
so, do you think it could impact on this year’s results? There was a definite slow-down in the second half of the year after the vote to leave the EU. Whist the UK economy remains strong there is a level of uncertainty due to the value of the pound against other currencies and how this will impact on prices. In my view, this is the best time for the general public to buy as prices will only rise.
Why should members of the industry get involved in the BKU Awards, by entering, nominating, voting and attending?
It’s really important to recognize firms and individuals that go the extra mile, and it’s a fabulous achievement to be short-listed or nominated as a winner. We enjoyed great success last year, receiving the ‘Best Sanitaryware Brand’ Award and being nominated as a finalist in the Best Flooring, Best Sinks and Best Accessories Brand categories. It was a high point for the whole team; something you couldn’t put a price on in terms of morale. I’d really encourage others to get involved and to be part of it. And, in terms of attending, it’s a great opportunity for the whole industry to come together, and celebrate innovation and hard work.
What are the big trends in kitchen and bathroom design and retailing this this year?
We are seeing a greater demand for wall hung products i.e. WC’s, bidets etc and in tiling we are seeing an increase in the desire for natural finishes such as stone, cement and wood etc.
What are customers looking for? How do they look for it,
and how do independent retailers fit into this? Customers are looking for a wide choice of products and this would tend to lead them to the internet for ideas and inspiration. However, most customers when undertaking a new bathroom will want to touch and feel what they are purchasing and want advice and help with design, this is where the independent retailer comes into their own.
Tell me about RAK Ceramics – what do you have to offer retailers and consumers in this sector?
Our portfolio includes diverse collections to suit all interior design schemes, from established RAK best sellers to fashion-inspired ranges - all of the products tie-up, so that retailers and consumers can choose individual designs or a whole RAK scheme. And, of course, we provide a high quality offer, with options to suit all budgets and specification needs, from practical, family home to boutique hotel.
How has the company grown since its inception? Since RAK was founded in 1989, it’s grown into one of the largest ceramics’ brands in the world. We have 17 state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and a network that serves 150 countries. As the industry embraces technology and the company adapts to meet consumer demand, 2017 will see RAK take on new brand identity that reflects who the company is, where the company has come from and the direction it will head in the coming years.
Are you launching any new products and services this year?
We’re reintroducing two bathroom collections – Karla and Washington and a brand new sanitaryware collection which will be launched at ISH. Also eight new tile collections which feature wood, stone and brick designs. All these new items can be found in our new brochure that was launched last November.
Where do you see the company in five years’ time?
Do you have further plans for expansion? RAK have put together a UK based contracts team, which has given us the ability to expand into a sector of the market we have traditionally been weak in.
We are also looking to further enhance our retail sector of the market with the offering of new ranges. Making us close to becoming the provider of the complete bathroom solution.
For more information, please contact RAK Ceramics on tel. 01730 237850, email
info.uk@
rakceramics.com or visit
www.rakceramics.com
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