BHETA seeks feedback on potential US retail initiative

The British Home Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA) is in dialogue with the US home and housewares retailer Bed Bath & Beyond with a view to identifying potential trading opportunities for its members.

Bed Bath & Beyond (BB&B) is a chain of more than 1,100 stores across the US, with subsidiaries in Canada and Mexico. Formed in 1971, the stores sell goods primarily for the bedroom and bathroom, as well as the kitchen and dining room.

Following discussions with BHETA, it has expressed an interest in looking at a number of UK suppliers, who might have product ranges suitable for the US market that would fit BB&B’s offer. It is particularly interested in suppliers whose goods are manufactured in Europe.

BHETA is now looking to explore the idea of a spin-off version of its Meet The Buyer programme, working directly with BB&B’s trading teams.

BHETA housewares sector director Will Jones explained: “This could be a great new initiative for BHETA members, but it’s essential that the logistical and service issues that such a trading relationship could raise are resolved up front. The majority of current European branded suppliers dealing with BB&B either deal through appointed US distributors or have third party agreements with trading partners in place.I’m therefore looking to obtain feedback from actual and prospective BHETA members as to whether the practical considerations can be easily addressed prior to progressing any joint event or other collaborative initiative.

“Companies trading in bathroom accessories, cookware, bakeware, food preparation equipment, small domestic appliances, cleaning and laundry equipment, kitchen accessories, outdoor and seasonal items, soft furnishings, storage and tabletop could all have relevant products for BB&B and I’m keen for them to contact me if they would like to get involved so that we can discuss the criteria in more detail.”

Will can be contacted on wj@bheta.co.uk or by telephone on 0121 237 1130.