At kbb LDN, a scheme from FIRA which signifies excellence in kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installation services was launched to independent retailers and the name of the first company to be awarded the accreditation was announced.

Already held by many major retailers, FIRA Gold Installation Certification is a quality mark certified by FIRA, a leading body in the furniture industry. To help raise standards across the industry, the scheme has now been adapted to allow independent retailers and builders to benefit from this valuable third party endorsement. To coincide with the launch, a special offer, which runs until 30th June, will enable businesses to join the scheme at a further reduction of ￡250.

Contract Kitchens, a privately-owned kitchen company which offers total project management from design through to installation, is the first business certified to meet the quality targets set by FIRA Gold Installation Certification for Independent Retailers.

MD for Contract Kitchens, Terry Earle, attended the launch at kbb LDN, the capital's only trade exhibition dedicated to kitchens, bedrooms & bathrooms. “The FIRA Gold Certification is the highest accolade in the fitted furniture industry and is a tribute to our installation manager, Robin Brackett and his team of installers and specialist contractors,” he says.

“Following a successful audit of our installation procedures, we are proud to be the first privately-owned independent company in the United Kingdom to achieve this accreditation. What is most pleasing about the audit is that we achieved the highest possible mark of 100%. This puts us in a unique position in our marketplace both locally and nationally.”

The certification is awarded following an annual audit to ensure all staff work to the best-practice industry standards and legislation by using a comprehensive technical manual developed by FIRA. This helps to reduce issues arising from the installation of a product, be it kitchen, bedroom or bathroom, and ensures a consistent quality of fit. The certification also reviews the company’s complaints system to help ensure the highest level of customer service.