FOCUS ON BATHROOMS
DISTRIBUTOR - UNITED HARDWARE
PHYSICAL SHOWROOMS, TRUST IN MERCHANTS AND STAFF KNOWLEDGE ARE HIGHLIGHTED IN NEW RESEARCH AS FACTORS MOST INFLUENTIAL FOR
PURCHASING DECISIONS IN PLUMBING AND BATHROOMS… United Hardware DAC supports independent merchants
In an ever-evolving landscape of bathroom trends in Ireland, United Hardware DAC stands as a beacon of support for independent hardware retailers, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the plumbing and heating market. Collaborating closely with renowned suppliers such as Niko Bathrooms, SONAS Bathrooms, RT Large, Harrison Bathrooms, Triton, Mira, Stuart Turner and Grundfos, amongst others, United Hardware maintains its commitment to keeping members ahead of shifting trends. And within the plumbing and bathroom installation sector in Ireland, understanding consumer behaviours and preferences is essential for achieving success. A new survey undertaken by United Hardware shares interesting insights into the pivotal role that bathroom showrooms play in shaping purchasing decisions in Ireland. Almost 100 professional installers and plumbers took part in the survey, which delved into the multifaceted importance of bathroom showrooms and underscores the need to stay abreast of trends in this dynamic industry. PREFERENCE FOR INDEPENDENT MERCHANTS Almost half (49%) of all professional plumbers and installers surveyed expressed a distinct preference for purchasing bathroom products from independent merchants, rather than chain stores. This highlights the significant role of independent stores and their unique ability to respond to the needs of customers with
In a changing world, United Hardware DAC stands out as a cooperative and a driving force supporting independent merchants.
personalised and trustworthy solutions. Beyond the importance of independent merchants, the following factors were identified in the research as being significantly influential to the purchasing intentions and decision making among professional plumbers and installers: Trust in the merchant, staff knowledge and friendly service were found to be the most important factors, while price was considered the least important.
This underscores the belief that tangible displays and immersive experiences greatly facilitate consumer decision- making and inspire confidence in product selections. While bathroom showrooms are the preferred medium for showcasing products and designs, brochures and websites still have a vital role to play. Preferred by 21% of installers, printed materials and brochures continue to hold relevance as an additional way of communicating and engaging consumers. With a combined turnover exceeding €500m, United Hardware DAC has solidified its position as one of the industry’s largest representative groups in Ireland and a leader in sourcing and purchasing products. By joining United Hardware, members not only benefit from the competitive deals available from suppliers, but also its range of market-leading support services aimed at growing your business. If you are an independent merchant and want to improve your profits, margins and product accessibility, then contact United Hardware via: T: +353 (0)1 461 1800 E: info@unitedhardware.ie www.unitedhardware.ie
CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR IN REMODELLING
A preference for undertaking full bathroom remodels was expressed by 58% of those polled, indicating a strong demand for comprehensive upgrades and renovations in the Irish market. Additionally, 63% of installers allow homeowners to select their preferred bathroom fixtures and designs, highlighting the importance of catering to individual tastes and preferences. PREFERENCE FOR BATHROOM SHOWROOMS The poll found that 68% of plumbers and installers assert that a dedicated bathroom showroom is the single most crucial asset for selling bathroom products and designs.
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