A Review of Rapid Progress and Growth
08/04/2014 | The last twelve months have seen rapid progress, development and growth of The European Water Label. Following its adoption in Europe in 2012 the database of products has expanded, more manufacturers have joined the scheme and partnerships with major builders merchants and retailers have been forged. Yvonne Orgill, chief executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, based in the UK, reviews an exciting year. ________________________________________ It was a really thrilling start to the exciting year when The European Water Label won two major awards for its innovative approach to the labelling of water consuming products. The first was in the Business Innovation Category at the UK’s Sentinel Awards (www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2l5Dtru14g) and the second, a more personal award given to me for my work in bringing the European Water Label from a simple idea to the preferred scheme in the EU28. This award, from the UK’s industry magazine kbbReview was especially gratifying (www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2l5Dtru14g) The European Water Label now has over 60 registered companies in its database, together with over 7000 products and 60 supporting brands. Of all the products registered, the vast majority, 30%, are WCs. Of the remainder 19% are faucets and 16% bath tubs, and a further 30% concern shower fittings, electric showers and shower handsets. During the past twelve months the label’s website at www.europeanwaterlabel.eu has been thoroughly upgraded and the innovative Product Map adds an interesting feature to the site; users can see products listed in their own country. The year has seen many meetings held both in the UK and in Europe to progress the scheme and to resolve the inevitable difficulties which arise during this rapid growth stage. These meetings have required a lot of input from many people and compromises have been made. I would like to congratulate those in FECS for taking part. Throughout the last twelve months The European Water Label has been shown at major exhibitions in Europe. At ISH, Frankfurt, the The European Water Label had busy display stand showing to the 123,600 visitors. The Label also took pride of place at kbb Birmingham just a month ago. The European Water Label has come a long way since its inception but the last twelve months has seen a rapidly growing awareness of the scheme and its benefits.