British Hardware Federation names its 2016 award winners

The British Hardware Federation (BHF) Awards 2016 were presented yesterday (Tuesday February 16), at trade show Totally DIY: Totally Tools, held at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.

The Awards were presented by BHF chairman Stewart Munro and Alan Hawkins, ceo of British Independent Retailers Association (bira). The BHF is the national trade association for independent hardware and DIY retailers in the UK. The BHF is specialist division within bira..

Wholesaler Stax Trade Centres won the Best Supplier Award 2016 for the second year running. The judges complimented the company for its “continued support of independent retailers and ease of use through bira direct [the buying service for bira members], combined with excellent service, range, availability and price.”
For the product awards, BHF members voted on design, use, customer feedback, “wow factor”, sales and range, quality and availability.

The Best Garden Product 2016 was awarded to the Provado Ultimate Bug Killer range by Bayer Garden. It was commended by the judges as: “a great range of tried and tested products that encourages repeat business. Well packaged, carrying clear instructions and with good distributor support, it is ideal for both the professional & amateur gardener”.

The Best Hand and/or Power Tool Product 2016 was scooped by Karl Kammerling International for the Universal 5 piece drill bit set. The judges described it as “the perfect set for most customers’ needs”. They explained: “These drill bits can drill through a multitude of materials including concrete, brick, cement, stone, metal and ceramics. This enables the user to complete work in a fraction of the time and effort.”

The Best Eco Product 2016 was garnered by Philips Lighting for its Master LEDspot MV Value GU10 range. The judges welcomed “an innovative energy-saving product range, from a recognised brand. It’s at a good price point, in a wide range of colours and wattages that merchandise well with excellent sales results”.