This is the correct version of a story that was published in the March print issue of kbbreview in error. We are happy to make this clear and apologise for any confusion.
Duncan and Kevin Waters, the founders and owners of exclusive bathroom showroom chain West One, have launched an online bathroom business called Bathwaters.com.
The website claims to offer a “new way” for consumers to buy a bathroom online, working with the world’s leading product and fittings manufacturers, including Hansgrohe, Duravit, Roman Showers and Axor. But it also sells own-brand products.
Bathwaters, which offers a free online 3D design service, said it is Duravit’s first authorised online retailer in the UK.
It said it is a completely separate company from West One.
E-commerce manager Anthony Favell said: “If you look on Companies House, you can see that Duncan and Kevin Waters are the directors – but that is where the affiliation ends.
“Bathwaters and West One have different markets, different clients and are a completely different proposition.”
Favell is the son of former Bathstore chief executive Gary Favell.
Before he took the post, Favell worked at Bathstore for almost three years in different roles, including ecommerce manager for four months.
He said: “Although there is nothing new about buying a bathroom online, it has always felt like stepping into the unknown.
“What you gain in apparent upfront savings, you lose in expert guidance and support. So, we’ve put together a carefully considered free design service, which includes a team of talented designers who can turn ideas into reality.
“Our proposition is based on sensible pricing, consistent pricing, expertise and a great selection of products. We also wanted to simplify the process of buying online and put the customer at the heart of our business. That’s why we offer an expert design service – that is also free.”
On the website, shoppers have access to a video, which shows how to measure their bathroom and create a floorplan. They can then upload their plan and a few photographs of their existing space, along with their budget and preferred styles.
Using this information, the Bathwaters design team will create a 3D render of their new bathroom.
“Our products are fairly priced. That’s why you won’t find us shouting about special offers all year round,” said Favell.
“We are looking forward to sharing our passion for design-conscious, beautiful bathrooms.”
West One Bathrooms reported sales of almost £18 million for the year to end of June 2018.
West One has showrooms in the wealthiest areas of London, including Knightsbridge, Mayfair, Chelsea and Notting Hill.