Southport kitchen retailer tackles global pandemic to keep trading

DESPITE such uncertain times having a major impact on the high street, a Southport kitchen retailer is harnessing the latest technology to overcome the challenges posed by a global pandemic. The Kutchenhaus store is providing virtual appointments and using its new online 3D planning and design tool to create kitchens remotely for local customers until COVID-19 government restrictions are lifted. Jen, the manager of the store, is introducing new ways for its customers to view, design and order its contemporary ranges produced by parent company, Nobilia; Europe's largest kitchen manufacturer. Rather than visiting their Garrick Parade showroom, customers can still benefit from the local team's years of experience by booking a design appointment online and then holding it remotely by video conference. Kutchenhaus is renowned for providing stylish, German designed ranges at the lowest possible price, without compromising on quality. Customers in Southport have the added peace of mind that kitchens they order now will be delivered on time, with minimal disruption currently being experienced to the firm's supply chain and manufacturing process in Germany.

Jen, Showroom Manager, at Kutchenhaus, in Southport, commented:- "We're starting to get a fantastic response to our virtual appointments, which gives local customers the option to design a new kitchen from the comfort and safety of their own home. Coupled with the new online 3D planning and design tool, the technology has been a real game changer for us as a business operating in the most difficult of circumstances. We're also seeing that many people are looking to get their teeth into big projects around the home and want to make best use of the lockdown situation. Hopefully, it's not long now until our showroom doors can open again for real and we can welcome back our customers who we've missed greatly."

Sean Ford, National Head of Sales and Operations for Kutchenhaus, said:- "Kutchenhaus is on an ambitious growth path over the next 2 to 3 years, however being in the grip of a global pandemic has certainly presented some challenges and even positively altered the way we do business in some cases. It is therefore extremely satisfying that Jen and their team are now in a position to keep their store open in Southport in some capacity and offer local customers the opportunity to plan and design their dream kitchen during the current lockdown."

Anyone wishing to book a virtual appointment at the Southport Showroom, can do so by emailing:- Showroom@Southport.KutchenHaus.Co.UK or visiting:- Kutchenhaus.Co.UK.

Fundraisers needed for rebrickulous Lego Walk

CAUDWELL Children, the national charity that provides practical and emotional support to disabled children and their families, is appealing for fundraisers to sign up for its charity Lego Walk, on Sunday, 31 May 2020. Lego walking has become increasingly popular in recent years with the current Guinness World Record being held by Sonny Molina, from Illinois, USA, who walked 12,696ft 2in over the interlocking plastic bricks. The team at Caudwell Children say the challenge can be enjoyed by adults and children alike, and that it will give families something interesting and rewarding to do together during the current health crisis lockdown.

"Nearly everybody has had that experience of standing on a little plastic block of Lego and it can really hurt. So we've enlisted the support of UK Firewalks, experts in creating mind over matter experiences where people can use their willpower to overcome physical obstacles, to create a rebrickulous, fun event for all the family." explained Kate McMahon, from Caudwell Children.

Whilst most sponsored walks involve covering many miles the Lego Walk will see participants testing themselves over just a few yards. "We don't expect anyone to match Sonny's world record. But after a training video by UK Firewalks, you'll be able to confidently take off your shoes, slip off your socks, and head for your home based brick pit where you'll be able to walk barefoot over a lane of potentially painful Lego bricks safely and pain free!" continued Kate.

Through a number of pre-recorded videos UK Firewalks, will show participants a variety of walking techniques that will ensure that their fearless feet can handle the challenge. Kate added:- "They will give participants all the guidelines and advice that they need to complete the walk with their toes and soles of the feet intact. We're also hoping to show the event live on our website, as well as posting videos on a private Facebook group, so that participants can share their experience with others. So if you dare to brave the Lego Walk challenge sign up now. You will have loads of fun and you'll also be helping Caudwell Children to support disabled children across the UK."

Scott Bell, founder of UK Firewalk, says that this type of walking challenge can have a profound effect on participants. As he explained:- "Many walkers overcome their fears or find self fulfilment, but they always have a wonderful experience."

Kate, says that the challenge will take participants out of their comfort zone. "It will challenge their perceived notions of pain. They will realise that they have the potential to overcome their fears and that their determination will take them where they want to go, which can be quite liberating."

Businesses are also being encouraged to use the challenge as a team building exercise at a time when many employees are still unable to return to their place of work. "As long as you have a decent amount of Lego you'll be able to give it a le-go. It's just ₤5 to register and we're asking people to set themselves a minimum sponsorship target of ₤25." concluded Kate.

Caudwell Children will supply all those who register with sponsorship forms. To register call Kate McMahon on:- 01782 433754 or email:- Kate.McMahon@CaudwellChildren.com.