The British Home Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA) is in talks with US retailer Bed Bath & Beyond with a view to identifying potential trading opportunities for its members.
Bed Bath & Beyond is a chain of over 1,100 homewares stores across the US, and has subsidiaries in Canada and Mexico. They sell goods primarily for the bedroom and bathroom, as well as the kitchen and dining room.

Following discussions with BHETA, the company has expressed an interest in looking at a number of UK suppliers that might have product ranges suitable for the US market and fit into the BB&B consumer 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 popular Meet the Buyer retail engagement programme, working directly with the BB&B trading teams.

"This could be a great new initiative for BHETA members," said BHETA housewares sector director Will Jones, "but it's essential that the logistical and service issues 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."