David Osborne

Md, Roman

How would you view the current kbb retail market?

We keep hearing hearsay on the market being flat or down 5%.  Roman view flat as being the same as last year and a 5% downturn still means that there is 95% to go at. There may not be much organic growth in 2008 but we can still have a strategy for new product launches, development in to new market sectors and growth of market share. Roman's growth plans remain buoyant in the current climate.

Which companies are setting the pace in the KBB market?

In mainstream sanitaryware, we are great admirers of Laufen's design and product innovation in a field where it is increasingly difficult to differentiate. We are also admirers of the service levels and service ethos of Bristan who have revolutionized the brassware market over recent years.

Do you think this is a golden age for KBB design?

We very much hope that the Golden Age has disappeared for good, as Gold is a nightmare shade for enclosure manufacturers. The ongoing development of the high end of the retail market has brought a new ethos and understanding to design and designers. New shapes, sizes, materials, and ways of delivering and designing lifestyle ideals are embedded in a shrinking bathroom.

Which new products have stood out in the past 12 months?

Hansgrohe's grey water system has had potentially the most impact in the drive for water efficiency and we would applaud any other products that are highlighting the drive that will become key criteria for purchasing over the coming years. Note the BMA and the water efficiency labelling scheme.

What are your predictions for the industry in the coming year?

Roman are looking forward over the coming year and as a result a buoyant and confident mid to high end retail market with water efficiency becoming increasing important in the consumer's buyer decision.

Who is the most famous person to have blagged free product from you?

Without revealing my rugby bias, Colin Charvis received everything that he asked for when updating his shower enclosure! The same could not be said for Jonny Wilkinson...