UK DIY News
Rothley Expands ENDURANCE Range
Rothley’s ENDURANCE range of high-grade stainless steel tube and fittings has been going from strength to strength since its launch in 2019. Due to its success, they have now expanded the selection of stainless steel products to include table legs, indoor/outdoor handrail kits and grab rails. All are available in a variety of trending colour finishes including antique copper, antique brass, matt black and gunmetal.
As outlined by their recent social media campaign Rothley have identified the following reasons as to why they made the decision to use stainless steel:
Just a few reasons why we made the decision to use Stainless Steel:-
1. Chrome Plating Can be Lethal
To eradicate chrome (Cr6+) which can be harmful to those involved in poorly regulated plating and manufacturing processes.
2. Outstanding Performance
Stainless steel products look better for longer and last longer. Stainless steel resists rust and pitting while chrome plated steel degrades in damp, humid conditions.
A worktop support leg after 5 years in a coastal chalet
A chrome grab rail used externally
Stainless steel products will resist rust and pitting, which makes such product particularly suitable for applications where humidity and condensation are present. This particularly relevant in park homes, chalets, caravans and the rapidly growing pod sector.
3. Not as Expensive as You Might Think
With their own stainless steel processing facilities in China, Rothley have created a supremely efficient supply chain. They have bought the option of stainless steel products to their customers at similar prices to the chrome versions they outperform.
The Industry has Been Slow to Change and Consumers are Unaware
The hardware industry is known for its rather slow reactions to trends and it would appear it is also slow to react to environmental/ethical issues. Chrome plated materials have been a staple in the hardware industry for many years, but there is little or no public awareness as to how harmful effects that the unregulated plating process can have upon the operators, in the predominantly Indian and Chinese plating industry.
Hexavalent chromium plating, poses the most significant health hazard. It is a hazardous air pollutant and a human carcinogen, even single exposure to it during the manufacturing process can result in irritation of the skin and upper respiratory tract (hse.gov.uk). Rothley is committed to reducing the use of these harmful processes while still retaining the attractive mirror finish of chrome plated tube and accessories (illustrated below).
Identical finish - above: Chrome plated tube, below: ENDURANCE Stainless Steel polished 25mm tube
Simon Cox, Sales and Marketing Manager explained this lack of transparency within the industry: “One of the problems surrounding chrome plating, we have found, is the lack of awareness from the consumer. We have come clean with the consumer so that they are able to make fully informed purchase decisions. We believe that customers and consumers, if fully aware of the dangers to human health and the environment in the poorly regulated chrome plating sector, will opt for the more ethical possibilities. Now consumers and customers can purchase an identical looking product to chrome, which is more durable and versatile in performance, for a similar price, I think that, as is already happening, consumers will continue to switch”
Since the original factory opened in 1826, tube has been one of their core products. ENDURANCE, is made from stainless steel and is available in attractive brushed or polished finishes comparable to the original chrome tube, but remains inert throughout its lifespan and can be recycled at the end of its life. They have also introduced the option of having biodegradable sleeves on their products reducing the life cycle of the packaging substantially, with a compostable life of as little as 1 1/2 years.
Not Just Silver
Stainless steel, with all its high-performance characteristics is generally associated with either a polished or brushed silver finish.
Rothley have seen a rise in demand for contemporary colours and patinaed finishes like copper, antique brass and gunmetal. Rothley’s Baroque colour range gives consumers the option of matching or complimenting contemporary kitchen accents, something that until now had been almost impossible unless commissioning a bespoke design with an elevated price tag attached.
Table Leg in Polished Copper
A Diverse Product Range
Their new Indoor/Outdoor Handrail Kits, launched in 2020, also allow for colour matching as well as durability. Their indoor version of this kit is an established best seller, and this is set to be the case for their new Premium Baroque version, complete with increased strength, choice of finish and applications. Rarely can you find stainless steel in such a broad array of colours. Customers are no longer having to compromise. Rothley can promise fashion and functionality.
Rothley BAROQUE Premium Handrail Kits
In 2019, Rothley invested in two new sites; the first being their global supply chain office and more recently their manufacturing plant in China which is capable of supplying the global market. They now have the capability to offer our customers immense supply chain flexibility to fit the ever-changing market conditions, without affecting quality or performance of their products. They can exercise control over the whole process from material sourcing through to delivery into their customers to ensure that effective and ethical processes are followed at all stages. The most recent factory established and managed by their team was recognised with a regional award for outstanding employee welfare and training, whilst being the most efficient and cost-effective manufacturer in its sector.
By choosing an ENDURANCE product you’re not only saving money by buying a superior, fashionable product, you’re saving the planet from excess waste and potentially the lives of those involved in the unregulated manufacturing industry. Make the right choice for your pocket, the environment and for your home with Rothley.
For more information, please contact marketing@rothley.com
Or visit @RothleyLtd on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or Pinterest.
Source : Rothley
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