NEWS IN BRIEF
Thursday 8th January 2009

COTSWOLD COMPANY PARENT REPORTS 4% FALL IN GROUP SALES

The parent company of multi-channel furniture retailer the Cotswold Company saw sales fall 4% in the 39 weeks to 2nd January – which it described as a ‘satisfactory performance in the current climate.’ However, Findel’s sales in its home shopping division, which includes the mail order, online and four-store Cotswold Company business, dropped 6% during the period.

DUTCH HOMEWARE FIRM TARGETS UK

Dutch firm Stair Make-Over is to launch into the UK market. The firm is on the lookout for distributors and retailers for its DIY staircase refurbishment packs (pictured), which are packaged for consumers to take away from stores and can be installed without professional assistance. Stair Make-Over also supports retailers with a range of promotional in-store and online support material. For more information visit www.stairmakeover.com

BARKER & STONEHOUSE TIES UP WITH RECYCLING CHARITY

Eight store Barker & Stonehouse has launched a mattress and recycling scheme. The north east retailer has tied up with Hartlepool charity Owten Fens Community Association, which is to invest £100,000 in machinery to expand its mattress recycling operation. The charity started four years ago as an environmentally responsible vehicle recycling facility before later moving into furniture.

SUPPLIER REJIGS UK APPROACH

Component supplier Assa Abloy has merged its UK, African and Middle East regions into one operation and has appointed John Middleton to head it up. Middleton, previously responsible for Africa and the Middle East, will move to the UK as part of a move the company says will help drive operational efficiencies and product innovation. For more information visit www.assaabloy.com