The beast from the East caused all manner of problems, with traffic and delivery chaos on a grand scale. But in a true story of triumph over adversity British Ceramic Tile, and many other manufacturers exhibiting at kbb, endured the arctic conditions and enjoyed a successful show.
Despite the weather conditions, BCT secured some promising new leads with potential national retailers, as well as opening up a number of new accounts, particularly within the bathroom sector.
Response to the new product collections was extremely positive, with the V&A Metro collection identified as a key seller for retailers, tapping into consumer demand for classic styling while bringing designer brands into the home.
A new take on the small format metro tile, this new collection offers a scaled-up version that will suit any period or contemporary design scheme. With five jewel-like tones alongside classic white, each bevelled tile features a rich, transparent glaze that provides tonal movement, slightly differing from one tile to the next. Designed to complement the V&A paint range, the collection comes in a 15x50cm size.
Jayne Adamson, head of retail marketing and brand comments: “kbb proved to be a challenging, but rewarding show, not just for us but for many other exhibitors. The travel problems caused by the snowfalls affected our stand build and new product showcase, but despite all this, our sales team enjoyed good results. The new products were well received, especially V&A Metro. It’s an incredibly versatile collection that suits kitchen or bathroom, but what really makes it stand out is its classic style and the fact that it marries with the V&A Paint collection. Many retailers felt it fitted with their consumer profile perfectly, particularly those looking for a contemporary take on Victorian style.”
The British Ceramic Tile stand was packed with inspiration and advice on the latest design trends influencing our homes, as well as a raft of new products. Wall and floor tile collections were equally popular, with the textured, natural tiles particularly in high demand.
With the demand for floor tiles continuing into 2018, British Ceramic Tile unveiled Smokestack, a new introduction to the HD collection. Industrial in its styling, the concrete-effect ceramic tile adds an urban feel to interiors and was a hit with retailers thanks to its striking good looks and ease of use. Available in a 50x50cm size.
The new Conglomerate range was a talking point for all on stand. Adding a contemporary edge to interiors, the new terrazzo inspired print has been re-mastered to blend with modern day interiors, bringing a sense of natural decoration to walls and floors. Available in a white and mid-grey 25x50cm wall tiles, with coordinating dark grey and white 33x33cm floor tiles, and a striking 33x33cm feature floor tile to make an impact underfoot.
Bringing new surface textures to walls, the HD Galvanised collection with its unique oxidised metal effect finish was well received, perfectly demonstrating British Ceramic Tile’s innovative manufacturing techniques.
Retailers were also impressed with the launch of Mumbai Slate, a premium porcelain tile collection that brings the look and feel of Indian Slate to the home. The versatility of the material allows it to transform spaces indoor and out, giving consumers endless possibilities with the range. Available in a large format 45x90cm, in three eye-catching colourways of Ice, Taupe and Blue.
