Australian tap supplier begins registering trademarks in the UK

GWA Group, supplier of bathroom and kitchen fittings brands in Australia, has started the process of registering trademarks in the UK, as it hopes to supply Homebase with toilets, taps, baths and sinks.

Tim Salt, the recently appointed GWA CEO, told The Australian the steps the company was taking to protect its brands “Bunnings are a very important customer of ours and if we can support their push into the UK we are keen to help". It's clear that there's no commitment from Bunnings at this stage, although this is likely to lead to many other Australian based companies taking the same approach.

The brands that GWA have registered with the IPO so far include Dorf, Caroma, Fowler and Stylus.

“We have been a longstanding client of Bunnings and if that sort of creates opportunities for us, we would love to seize them,’’ said the CEO. “Bunnings obviously have to get their feet under the table and work out what they want to do there, but if the opportunity arises, then we keen to have a go at it. “I suspect others will be doing the same as us.’’

The move could be a lucrative opportunity for Australian suppliers of Bunnings with the potential to also supply the 265 Homebase stores. 

Some of the existing GWA brands including the Caroma bathroom range, Dorf taps and showers have established sales track records with Bunnings. “Bunnings know the quality of our brand, they understand how we operate, they have reassurance around that, service, quality, innovation, etc, and I think those things will be relevant in the UK market” he said.

GWA currently sells 95% of its range in Australia, and distribution gains in the UK could prove to be a valuable export channel for their business.

Source: Insight DIY Team

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