Because the reality is - running a care home has become far more complex.

It’s not just about delivering outstanding care. Behind the scenes, teams are managing a wide range of essential services that all play a role in safety, compliance, and resident wellbeing.

From laundry and dishwashing to TV systems, WiFi, and connectivity, these services are part of everyday life in a care setting. Yet many homes are still juggling multiple suppliers; each with their own contracts, processes, and service levels.

And that’s where the pressure starts to build.

From Supplier to Strategic Partner

We’re seeing a clear shift across the sector.

Care providers are moving away from traditional supplier relationships and looking for something more - partners who understand the realities of care environments.

That means working with a provider who doesn’t just install equipment, but takes the time to understand:

• The pressures of CQC inspections
• The importance of infection prevention and control
• The need to minimise disruption in live environments
• The expectations residents now have around connectivity and comfort

A truly consultative approach starts with listening. It’s about understanding how each home operates, identifying challenges, and shaping solutions that support both care delivery and day-to-day operations.

The Value of Connected Services

When key services - like commercial laundry, dishwashing, IPTV, healthcare TV, and networking - are brought together under one provider, the benefits go well beyond convenience.

Care homes can:

• Spend less time managing multiple suppliers
• Have a single, accountable point of contact
• Experience faster, more consistent support
• Ensure systems are aligned with compliance and hygiene standards

Just as importantly, it creates a more stable, predictable environment for both staff and residents.

Simplifying Compliance

Compliance continues to be one of the biggest pressures facing the care sector.

With requirements from the CQC and standards like WRAS, it’s essential that equipment and processes are not only correctly specified - but continue to perform reliably over time.

A consultative partner helps remove that burden.

By ensuring systems are installed correctly, maintained proactively, and aligned with regulations, care providers can reduce risk, stay inspection-ready, and operate with greater confidence

Enhancing Everyday Life for Residents

Of course, compliance is only part of the picture. Quality of life matters just as much. Today’s residents expect more - reliable WiFi, modern TV systems, and easy access to entertainment and information. These aren’t luxuries anymore; they’re part of creating a comfortable, connected environment. At the same time, well-designed systems help staff work more efficiently - freeing up valuable time to focus on what matters most: delivering care.

The direction of travel is clear - less complexity, more integration, and stronger partnerships. By taking a connected, consultative approach, care homes can move away from reactive supplier management and towards a more strategic way of working; one that supports performance, strengthens compliance, and enhances the experience for everyone.

At Forbes, that’s exactly what we do.

We work alongside care providers to understand their challenges, design tailored solutions, and deliver fully integrated systems that support safe, efficient, and high-quality care environments.

👉 Read the full feature in The Carer Online: https://issuu.com/thecarer/docs/the_carer_83_march_april_2026?fr=sMGVlYTkwNzczODY

For 18 years, Bill has been at the heart of operations in Wigan, expertly managing field engineers across the region and ensuring fast, efficient responses for customers. His ability to coordinate complex logistics - working seamlessly with the procurement team, depot operations, and head office - has made him an indispensable part of the business.

Bill has worked closely with our Procurement Manager Matt Malyan and the staff at head office to ensure that Wigan always maintained smooth stock flows and efficient loading processes, helping the wider team deliver consistently high standards of service.

But beyond his operational excellence, it is Bill’s personality that colleagues will remember most.

Always approachable, endlessly positive, and known for a smile that lights up any room, Bill has brought energy and humanity to everything he has done for the business. Whether in person or on the phone, he is, as many describe, “a breath of fresh air.”

Last week, Bill visited head office for a well-deserved send-off, where colleagues from across the business gathered to celebrate his career and wish him well for his retirement.

Bill Miller said:"It’s been an incredible journey over the past 18 years. I’ve had the privilege of working with some fantastic people and being part of a team that truly cares about what we do. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and will take away many great memories and friendships. Thank you to everyone who’s been part of it."

Kevin Herring, CEO, added:"Bill represents everything we value as a business—dedication, teamwork, and a genuine commitment to doing things the right way. His leadership in Wigan has made a lasting impact, not just on operations but on the people around him. He will be greatly missed, and we wish him a long, happy, and well-earned retirement."

As Bill steps into this next chapter, he leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, reliability, and kindness that will continue to inspire those who worked alongside him.

Laundry equipment. Dishwashing. Television services. WiFi networks. Guest connectivity. Compliance standards.

Often, these systems are supplied and serviced by different companies, which can create unnecessary complexity when something goes wrong.

At Forbes Professional, we take a simpler approach: connected operational solutions delivered by one provider. By bringing together commercial laundry, dishwashing, IPTV, healthcare TV and networking infrastructure, organisations can streamline operations, maintain compliance and create better environments for residents and guests.

Less Complexity, More Control

When essential systems are managed by multiple suppliers, even small issues can take time to resolve. Service calls may involve different engineers, support teams and service agreements.

Working with a single partner simplifies that process.

With one provider responsible for core operational technology, organisations benefit from:

• Faster response times
• Simplified servicing and maintenance
• Clear accountability
• Better system integration

Instead of managing several contracts and suppliers, operators have one point of contact and one consistent support structure.

Supporting Hygiene and Compliance in Care Homes

In care environments, operational systems must do more than simply function efficiently—they must support strict hygiene and safety standards.

Regulatory oversight from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) places a strong emphasis on infection prevention, while water systems and equipment must meet standards from the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS).

This makes reliable commercial equipment essential.

Professional laundry and dishwashing systems help care homes maintain consistent hygiene processes, supporting safe linen handling and food service operations while reducing the risk of downtime.

When these systems are installed and maintained by a single provider, operators can be confident that equipment performance and compliance standards remain aligned.

Technology That Supports the Resident and Guest Experience

While back-of-house systems keep operations running smoothly, technology also plays an important role in the day-to-day experience of residents and guests.

Modern IPTV and healthcare television systems allow organisations to deliver more than traditional TV channels. They can provide information, entertainment and communication tools through a simple in-room interface.

At the same time, reliable WiFi and networking infrastructure ensures residents, guests and staff can stay connected across the entire property.

For hospitality venues, this means delivering the seamless connectivity and digital services guests now expect.

For care and retirement homes, it means helping residents stay connected with family while supporting staff with reliable digital systems.

Building a Connected Environment

The real advantage comes when these systems are designed to work together.

Commercial equipment, IPTV platforms, WiFi networks and head-end systems all rely on stable infrastructure and responsive support.

By delivering these services as a connected solution, Forbes Professional helps organisations create environments where essential systems work reliably together, without unnecessary complexity.

A Simpler Way to Manage Essential Services

For care home and hospitality operators, the priority is always the people they serve.

Residents expect comfort, safety and connection. Guests expect convenience, quality and reliability. Behind those experiences are the operational systems that make everything possible.

By bringing together commercial laundry, dishwashing, IPTV, healthcare TV and networking solutions, Forbes Professional provides a simpler way to manage the technology and compliance requirements modern organisations rely on.

One provider. Connected solutions. Streamlined support.

This Global Recycling Day, Forbes Professional is highlighting how sustainable appliance lifecycle management can help organisations reduce waste, improve efficiency and support their ESG goals.

Improving Energy Efficiency in Commercial Appliances

Reducing energy consumption is one of the most effective ways businesses can lower both environmental impact and operating costs.

Through our rental model, Forbes Professional provides modern, energy-efficient appliances across sectors including:

• Commercial laundry
• Dishwashing
• Professional television solutions

Many of the latest commercial laundry systems now use heat pump technology, which can reduce energy consumption by up to 65% compared with traditional systems.

Because equipment is rented rather than purchased outright, organisations can also upgrade more easily as technology evolves. This helps businesses access more energy-efficient equipment without significant upfront capital investment.

Working with Sustainable Manufacturing Partners

Sustainability starts with the manufacturers we work with.

For example, Forbes Professional partners with brands such as Miele, widely recognised for product durability and responsible manufacturing. Miele has received sustainability recognition through EcoVadis, reflecting strong performance across environmental, ethical and responsible manufacturing standards.

By working with manufacturers that prioritise longevity and efficiency, we help clients access reliable commercial appliances designed for long operational life.

Extending Equipment Lifecycles Through Service

Keeping appliances running efficiently for as long as possible is a key part of responsible equipment management.

Our lifecycle support includes:

• Preventative maintenance to maintain efficiency
• Responsive service support when required
• Ongoing equipment management to extend product lifespan

We also offer selected reconditioned appliances, allowing organisations to benefit from reliable equipment while helping extend the usable life of existing products.

Reusing Parts and Components

Sustainable appliance management also includes how equipment is maintained and repaired.

When appliances are serviced or refurbished, usable parts and components are recovered where possible and returned to stock. This helps keep materials in productive use for longer while reducing unnecessary waste.

Responsible Recycling at End of Life

When appliances reach the end of their operational life, they are processed through responsible recycling channels.

All electrical equipment is handled in accordance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive, ensuring compliant treatment and recycling of electronic waste.

Supporting Sustainable Business Operations

By combining energy-efficient appliances, ongoing service support and responsible lifecycle management, Forbes Professional helps organisations make more sustainable operational choices.

This Global Recycling Day highlights the importance of extending product lifecycles, reducing waste and supporting more responsible use of commercial equipment.

Forbes Professional is delighted to welcome Barrie O’Neill as our new National Account Manager, who recently joined the team. Barrie brings 13 years of experience in AV, hotel TV networks, signage, and IP solutions, strengthening our expanding AV and TV pillar.

Well-known and highly respected within the industry, Barrie will be supporting our hospitality and care sector clients by delivering end-to-end solutions across:

• Hospitality and healthcare TVs
• Guest user interfaces
• IPTV and head-end solutions
• Networking and WiFi infrastructure
• Signage and AV equipment

Working closely with our laundry account managers, Barrie will help ensure Forbes Professional can deliver fully connected solutions across the UK, combining AV, networking, and commercial laundry systems under one trusted provider.

“I’m thrilled to join the Forbes team.” said Barrie O’Neill. “I look forward to helping clients enhance their guest and resident experiences through innovative AV, TV, and networking solutions while supporting the full connected environment.”

Kevin Herring, CEO of Forbes Professional, added:

“Barrie brings a wealth of experience and energy to the team. He is highly respected within the hospitality sector, and his expertise in AV, TV networks, and connectivity will be a huge asset for our clients. We’re excited to see the impact he will make as part of our expanding AV and TV pillar.”

Barrie’s addition underscores Forbes Professional’s commitment to providing integrated, connected solutions for clients across the hospitality and care sectors. His personable, energetic approach and deep industry knowledge make him a perfect fit for our growing team.

We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to supporting our clients with even more innovative, fully connected solutions.

The shortlisted categories are:

1. Best Independent Retailer – Customer Service
2. Best Independent Retailer for Repairs, Service and Spares
3. Best Independent Retailer Focused on Sustainability – Consumer Electronics
4. Best Independent Retailer Focused on Sustainability – Major Domestic Appliances
5. Best Independent Retailer Website
6. Best Independent Retailer Marketing and Advertising Campaigns

Established in 1926, Forbes is a proudly family-run business now celebrating 100 years of delivering exceptional quality, service and expertise. Reaching this centenary milestone reflects a century-long commitment to supporting customers with products they trust and service they can rely on.

Forbes’ company motto, “We Take Care of Everything,” continues to define its service promise. Through its rental subscription model, the business makes premium brands accessible without significant upfront cost, while also providing complete peace of mind through comprehensive service support.

For generations, customers have chosen Forbes for expert advice, first-class maintenance and breakdown response, all included at no extra cost for the life of their contract. That long-standing commitment to care, value and reliability has helped build a reputation founded on trust, loyalty and lasting relationships.

Hannah Forbes, Director of Marketing & Brand Strategy said:

“To be named a finalist in six categories at the IER Awards during our 100th year in business is an incredibly proud moment for everyone at Forbes. As a family-run company, this recognition means so much because it reflects the dedication of our teams, the loyalty of our customers and the values that have guided us for a century. From customer service and repairs to sustainability, marketing and digital innovation, these shortlistings recognise the strength of our business across every touchpoint. In our centenary year, this is huge for us,  and we’ll be keeping everything crossed for the awards later in the year.”

This recognition marks a major moment in Forbes’ centenary celebrations and highlights the breadth of the business’s strengths across customer service, sustainability, digital excellence and marketing.

With fingers firmly crossed for later in the year, Forbes is honoured to be recognised among the industry’s best as it celebrates 100 years of trust, service and innovation.

With CQC inspections placing continued emphasis on hygiene, safety and risk management, care home laundry processes are receiving ever greater scrutiny. And for many providers, that’s where hidden vulnerability can sit.

The Compliance Risk of Domestic Equipment

It’s still not uncommon for care homes to rely on domestic washing machines, particularly where equipment has been replaced gradually or budgets are under pressure. On the surface, these machines may appear sufficient. However, domestic appliances are not designed for regulated healthcare or care home environments.

They may:

• Lack validated thermal disinfection cycles required for infection control compliance
• Operate without WRAS Category 5 Type A air gaps to prevent backflow contamination
• Struggle with sustained, high-volume use in residential care settings
• Invalidate warranties when used commercially

During a CQC inspection, care providers must demonstrate that systems and processes effectively reduce infection risk. Without validated disinfection temperatures or appropriate contamination safeguards, that proof can be difficult to provide.

Infection Control Is Under the Spotlight

Infection prevention and control remains central to care home regulation across the UK. Laundry and kitchen hygiene are integral components of that wider framework.

When preparing for inspection, operators often reassess:

• Whether disinfection temperatures are verifiable
• Whether equipment meets WRAS requirements
• Whether machines are built for commercial demands
• Whether breakdowns could compromise service continuity

These considerations form part of a broader compliance picture, one that extends beyond visible clinical areas into operational infrastructure.

A More Resilient, Inspection-Ready Approach

Commercial laundry systems designed for regulated environments are engineered specifically to meet care sector standards. As a proud National Distributor for Miele, Forbes Professional supplies commercial laundry equipment capable of delivering validated thermal disinfection cycles (71°C for 11 minutes or 65°C for 18 minutes), alongside WRAS-approved contamination protection.

Infection-control programming helps reduce human error, while high-capacity, energy-efficient performance supports the sustained demands of care homes.

Laundry compliance does not stand alone. Commercial dishwashers designed for care environments play an equally important role in meeting hygiene standards within kitchen operations; another area regularly reviewed during inspection.

As one care client shared, Forbes delivered:

“Seamless installation, first-class equipment and measurable efficiency savings.”

Looking Beyond Initial Cost

In care settings, operational resilience is as important as regulatory compliance. Repeated breakdowns, insufficient capacity or emergency repairs can disrupt workflows and place pressure on already stretched teams.

While domestic equipment may appear cost-effective at first, the long-term implications;  compliance risk, repair costs and operational disruption often outweigh the initial saving.

Many providers are therefore moving towards supported commercial rental models, where preventative maintenance, repairs and fast-response service are included. This approach provides predictable monthly costs and reduces exposure to unexpected capital expenditure.

Is It Time to Review Your Laundry Compliance?

If you are preparing for a CQC inspection, reviewing infection control procedures, or experiencing ongoing equipment issues, it may be time to assess whether your current setup meets regulatory expectations.

Forbes Professional offers a no-obligation Care Hygiene Compliance Review to help identify:

• Potential compliance gaps
• Infection control risks
• Service and maintenance vulnerabilities
• Opportunities to improve efficiency

Because in any care environment, laundry is  a key component of both inspection readiness and resident safety.

Book your Care Hygiene Compliance Review today.

When this client approached Forbes, they were looking for a commercial laundry installation capable of sustaining high-frequency use.

Account Manager John Dobbs led the project, beginning with a consultative site survey to assess projected load volumes, peak demand periods, ventilation requirements and long-term durability expectations.

“We work with PBSAs across the UK, and in these student environments, you have to design for sustained usage from day one,” says John. “It is about catering to the requisite capacity whilst creating a sustainable system that will perform consistently over time.”

The client highlighted the clarity of communication and technical support:

“Our main point of contact communicates clearly and consistently, and the entire team is genuinely a pleasure to work with. Their technical specialist is knowledgeable

and thorough without ever overwhelming us with unnecessary detail. After many

years of partnership, I can confidently say that Forbes is one of the most dependable suppliers we work with. We will continue to use them long into the future, and I would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking for a high‑quality, trustworthy laundry facilities provide.’’

The installation included:

·       Miele PWM 907 professional washers

·       Miele PDR 908 vented dryers

·       Brightwell auto-dosing systems

·       Managed detergent provision

·       A comprehensive preventative maintenance contract

The PWM 907 and PDR 908 models are engineered and tested to 30,000 operating hours, making them particularly suited to high-demand commercial settings. Integrating Brightwell auto-dosing technology addressed one of the most common challenges in PBSA environments: detergent overuse. Automated chemical control protects internal components, improves wash consistency and reduces unnecessary waste.

The client opted for outright purchase supported by a structured maintenance agreement. Through scheduled preventative servicing and responsive call-out support delivered by our nationwide engineering network, performance is maintained and asset life is protected.

The result is a commercial laundry facility that operates reliably under pressure and supports both resident experience and long-term investment security.

As the client said of their experience: 

‘We’ve been working with Forbes for around eight years now, and the quality of their service has been exceptional from day one. They supply the laundry machines we use in our self‑serve laundry rooms across multiple buildings, and their professionalism, reliability, and communication are consistently second to none.

Forbes fully understands the high standards we operate to, and they always match and exceed them. On the rare occasion that an issue arises, all it takes is a quick word and the team resolves it immediately - often going above and beyond what’s expected.’

No matter which industry we are working with, our approach remains consistent -  survey first, specify appropriately, integrate chemical management where relevant and provide

nationwide service support. In high-usage environments, true reliability is fundamental

When our Account Manager, Tim Ledger, first spoke to this new build care home in  South Wales, the management team made their priorities clear.  They needed reassurance that their laundry setup would consistently meet HTM 01-04 thermal disinfection standards and align with WRAS Category 5 requirements, without becoming an ongoing operational concern.

As a new premises, we were able to consult upon drainage, electrical infrastructure and dirty-to-clean workflow separation to ensure compliance was built into the design from the outset.

“In care environments, compliance can’t be retrofitted,” explains Tim. “It has to be engineered into the system. Our role is to remove uncertainty by designing the right solution from day one, not reacting later.”

We specified a fully managed rental solution built around:

• Miele PWM 512 professional washers
• Miele PDR 510 commercial dryers
• Integrated Brightwell auto-dosing systems

The Miele PWM 512 was selected for its consistent, validated thermal disinfection capability, making it well suited to healthcare settings. The PDR 510 dryers ensure dependable throughput while maintaining energy efficiency.

To eliminate the risks associated with manual chemical dosing, Brightwell auto-dosing technology was integrated into the system. This automatically injects the precise quantity of detergent and disinfectant into every wash cycle, supporting consistent hygiene standards while reducing human error.

The installation was carried out by our engineers Brad and Stuart, who completed full commissioning and calibration on site to ensure every component operated as specified.

With the addition of our managed detergent provision and nationwide engineering support, the care home operates within a closed-loop commercial laundry framework. Equipment, chemicals and servicing are structured under one agreement, providing predictable costs and long-term support.

The result is a laundry room that performs reliably, meets regulatory expectations and allows the care team to focus on residents rather than worrying about operational risk.

This South Wales installation reflects how we support care providers across the UK;  through surveys or consultative-led design, Miele Professional equipment, integrated chemical management and nationwide service infrastructure.

After moving into the role of Customer Care Supervisor and then Assistant Manager, Wesley is now our Commercial Customer Service Manager, a position he has held for the past two years. In this role, he leads service operations for our B2B brand, Forbes Professional, overseeing commercial laundry and catering clients and managing engineer response across a diverse and demanding customer base.

No two days are ever the same. One moment Wesley could be supporting a hotelier, the next a school janitor, a care home manager, or a shared accommodation provider. It’s a fast-paced, highly reactive role - and one that perfectly suits his calm, organised approach, strong communication skills, and natural ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Reflecting on his career and the variety of his role, Wesley says:

“Working for a family business like Forbes really means something -  you’re trusted, supported, and encouraged to grow. I love the variety of my role; no two days are the same, and that is what keeps it so rewarding.”

Over his 16 years with the business, Wesley has witnessed, and helped drive, huge developments in customer service. Faster response times, improved remote diagnostics, and the introduction of connected solutions now allow us to offer more proactive, preventative maintenance. This not only reduces downtime for clients but also enables the service team to monitor performance more effectively, reinforcing our multi-award-winning customer service proposition.

Kevin Herring, CEO, comments:

“Wesley embodies the very best of Forbes - commitment, leadership, and an ability to adapt as our business and technology evolve. He’s highly respected by both colleagues and clients, and his positive attitude, personable nature, and sense of humour make a real difference every day.”

Wesley is married to Laura Spearing, our Business Development Manager, and is a popular, sociable, and outgoing member of the team. He’s always keen to get involved and is a passionate supporter of our ESG initiatives - particularly in supporting Demelza Charity wherever he can.

As we journey through our Centenary year, we’re reminded that it’s our people who have shaped our company. Wesley is undoubtedly one of those key figures: a strong leader, an exceptional communicator, and a brilliant problem solver who continues to make a lasting impact on Forbes.

That demonstration marked the birth of British television.

It also marked the year Forbes was founded.

While our early years focused on domestic service and appliance expertise, the rapid evolution of television technology shaped our trajectory. As television became central not only to homes but to hotels, leisure venues and commercial spaces, our expertise evolved alongside it.

Forbes Professional grew from the foundation established by Forbes Rentals - BAIRD TV built on service, technical understanding and long-term relationships. Today, we deliver integrated commercial TV, IPTV and AV solutions, alongside commercial laundry and ware-washing systems, across the UK.

From early mechanical systems to fully networked digital platforms, television has transformed dramatically. In hospitality and commercial environments, expectations now extend far beyond the screen itself -  seamless connectivity, managed networks, integrated AV and scalable infrastructure are essential.

Our century of experience in television technology provides a unique perspective. We understand not only the equipment, but the importance of lifecycle management, installation, maintenance and ongoing support.

As Stuart Forbes reflects:

“My father, our company founder,  did sell a few of the early Baird scanning disk televisions. From those early experiments to today’s fully integrated systems, it’s extraordinary to see how far television technology has come. What has remained constant for us is the importance of service.”

As television marks its centenary, we are proud to reflect on our own parallel journey; evolving from domestic expertise into a national commercial technology partner.

Here’s to 100 years of television -  and to shaping what comes next.

This expansion also sees Anthony Tizzard joining the Forbes team as Head of Hospitality TV & AV. Anthony brings over 22 years of AV industry experience, including 18 years delivering technology solutions specifically for the hospitality sector. He is a true expert in IPTV, structured network solutions and integrated in-room technology systems. His  vast industry experience further enhances our ability to support hotels, serviced apartments, leisure venues, retail environments and commercial spaces nationwide.

For decades, Forbes Professional has supplied hotel TVs, IPTV and digital solutions to the hospitality, retail and leisure sectors. The addition of Hotensify will help us to converge a wide range of digital systems, creating a seamless end-to-end customer journey while helping clients reduce operational costs and logistical complexity.

Operating across the UK, our combined engineering teams allow us to deliver fully integrated solutions, from design and installation through to ongoing support and maintenance.

Kevin, CEO of Forbes Professional, comments:

“The addition of Hotensify to the Forbes Group is a major milestone for our business. Anthony’s experience and deep understanding of hospitality AV complements our existing strengths perfectly. Together, we can deliver integrated, future-ready solutions that enhance guest experience while reducing complexity and cost for our clients.”

Expanded Technology Capabilities

With Hotensify now part of the group, Forbes Professional’s technology portfolio expands to now include:

●      IPTV and hotel TV solutions

●      Conference and meeting room AV systems

●      Large format displays

●      Interactive whiteboards

●      Hotel and managed WiFi installations

This means clients can refresh or upgrade systems without additional capital expenditure, while benefiting from a single trusted partner delivering joined-up technology solutions.

Anthony Tizzard adds:

“Joining the Forbes Group is a truly exciting next step for Hotensify. Forbes Professional’s heritage, national reach and engineering capability provide the ideal platform to deliver truly integrated hospitality technology solutions across the UK.”

A Century of Expertise, Built for the Future

Forbes is a multi-award-winning, family-run business celebrating its centenary year. This move reinforces our long-term commitment to innovation, service excellence and delivering technology that works seamlessly for our customers today and into the future.

As a group celebrating our centenary year, this recognition holds particular significance. For 100 years, our business has evolved to meet the changing needs of customers, while remaining steadfast in one core principle: putting customers at the heart of everything we do.

Feefo operates as an independent review platform, gathering genuine, verified feedback to ensure transparency and authenticity. This award is not decided behind closed doors — it is earned through the voices of our customers.

And their words speak volumes:

• “Absolutely brilliant. From start to finish.”
• “Amazing — that’s all I can say.”
• “Excellent service – we can’t thank them enough.”
• “Always come out when needed… fast and reliable.”
• “Excellent service, excellent machine. 5 stars!”
• “Best rental company in UK.”

These reviews reflect the professionalism, care and commitment demonstrated every day by our teams.

Hannah Forbes, Director of Marketing and Brand Strategy, commented:

“Receiving the Platinum Feefo Service Award again, in our 100th year, is an incredibly proud moment for everyone at Forbes. Because this recognition is based entirely on verified customer feedback, it truly reflects the dedication of our teams across the business. From our delivery drivers and engineers to our customer service colleagues and support teams, every individual plays a vital role in shaping the customer journey. We have always believed that service is the sum of every experience -  and this award is a testament to that shared commitment.”

As a group, we are immensely proud of our B2C business and the teams who continue to raise the bar for customer experience. This achievement is a reflection of their expertise, responsiveness and genuine care.

To our customers who have taken the time to share their experiences -  thank you. Your feedback continues to shape who we are and drives us forward into the next century of service excellence.

MDL Marinas required a reliable and user-friendly laundry system that could support their multi-operational marina sites while enhancing convenience for their customers. After a detailed consultation process, Forbes Professional recommended and installed IPSO/Alliance 10kg commercial washers and dryers, configured as both stacked and single units to maximise available space.

Each machine is fitted with Airwallet, an entirely app-based payment solution, enabling users to manage and pay for their laundry directly from their mobile devices. This approach has supported MDL in their goal of becoming entirely cashless, simplifying operations and improving customer experience across all sites.

Consultative Approach

Before installation, our team carried out comprehensive site surveys at each marina to assess infrastructure, plumbing, electrics, and logistics, ensuring seamless integration with existing facilities. Throughout the process, Laura Spearing, Forbes Professional’s dedicated Account Manager, worked closely with MDL to recommend the most suitable solutions for each individual site.

“Forbes Professional have been excellent to work with from start to finish. Their consultative approach, technical expertise, and clear communication have ensured that every site transition has been smooth and efficient. The new app-based system has been well received by our teams and customers alike, and we are delighted with the results.” Regional Operations Manager, MDL Marinas 

Ongoing Partnership

As part of the agreement, Forbes Professional will continue to provide comprehensive service and maintenance support, ensuring consistent reliability and peace of mind for MDL’s operational teams.

“It has been an absolute pleasure working with MDL Marinas on this project. They have a clear vision for innovation and sustainability across their portfolio, and it’s been rewarding to help deliver a modern, cashless solution that aligns with that vision. Our partnership is built on trust, collaboration, and shared commitment to service excellence.”

Laura Spearing, Account Manager, Forbes Professional

The Results

• Multi-site, phased implementation completed on schedule
• Seamless transition to a fully cashless payment model
• Enhanced customer experience with easy, mobile-based transactions
• Reliable, efficient laundry systems supported by ongoing service contracts

Through careful planning, close collaboration, and dedicated account management, Forbes Professional has supported MDL Marinas in successfully transforming their laundry operations - delivering a future-ready, cashless, and customer-focused solution.

Our story began in 1926 when Frederick Donald Forbes turned a passion for early electronics into a trusted local service repairing electrical appliances for his community. That entrepreneurial spark laid the foundation for what has grown into the national organisation it is today. While the business began in the domestic sphere, his philosophy- that service matters and people matter- has shaped every chapter of our evolution.

Over time, and under the leadership of his sons Malcolm and Stuart Forbes, the business expanded significantly, eventually forming two aligned pillars: Forbes Rentals, supporting households across the UK, and Forbes Professional, delivering fully managed rental solutions to organisations nationwide.

Today, Forbes Professional supports a broad range of sectors, including:

• Care & Nursing Homes
• Hospitals & Healthcare Providers
• Universities & Education Institutions
• Hotels, Hospitality & Leisure
• Housing Associations & Managed Accommodation

Despite its evolution, the business remains proudly family owned. Members of the third generation work across varied roles within the company, supporting the continuity of values established in 1926.

Stuart Forbes, Chairman, shares his perspective on the milestone:

“Our founder - my father - built this business on integrity, expertise and the belief that service should never be compromised. As we’ve grown into the commercial sector, those principles have remained unchanged. Whether supporting a care home, a hotel, a university or a national housing provider, the same values underpin every partnership.”

Forbes remains committed to delivering high-quality, responsive and reliable solutions that help organisations operate efficiently and sustainably.

Throughout the centenary year, the Forbes Group will be sharing heritage content, reflections and industry insights as it honours its 100-year legacy.

Gill first joined Forbes in 2001, starting in our B2C sales team at Forbes Rentals. Prior to that, she had been a buyer and sales manager at Selfridges, overseeing three of their restaurants. She took a career break to focus on her young children before returning to Forbes, bringing with her a wealth of experience, energy, and expertise.

Over the years, Gill progressed to our commercial pillar, Forbes Professional, initially focusing on TV and AV provision. She quickly became a trusted partner within the hospitality industry, building strong relationships and a reputation for delivering results. Her work also played a pivotal role in expanding our presence in the healthcare sector, where she helped shape solutions and services that met client needs.

In response to industry demand, Gill also helped drive our growth in the commercial laundry market, leveraging relationships she had nurtured over the years and feeding back valuable insights to inform our business strategy. Her influence has been key in shaping the direction of our business, helping Forbes remain a trusted partner across multiple sectors.

Gill is known not just for her professionalism and sales acumen, but also for her character. Always up for a glass of wine or two, she has made countless friends along the way. Her warmth, humour, and dedication have left a lasting mark on colleagues and clients alike.

Gill leaves us to join her husband Ian in retirement and to enjoy time with her cherished grandchildren. She is also looking forward to walks in the country, travelling, and we have no doubt, hitting the ski slopes more often!

Kevin Herring, CEO of Forbes, said:
"Gill has been a key part of our success over the last 25 years. Her professionalism, dedication, and sense of humour have shaped our business in countless ways. She will be deeply missed, and we wish her every happiness in the next chapter of her life."

Gill reflected on her time at Forbes:

"Forbes has been such a huge part of my life over the past 25 years, and it has been a pleasure to watch the business grow during that time. It’s a fantastic company to work for, and I’ve loved working alongside my husband Ian and so many colleagues who have been part of the team for decades. I’m now looking forward to spending more time with my family and shifting my focus from work travel to personal travel - a passion we both share."

Join us in celebrating Gill’s incredible career and contributions. Her legacy at Forbes will be felt for many years to come.

Whilst the offer lasts, organisations placing their first detergent order of £500 or more with Forbes Professional will receive 50 litres of free detergent, worth £160, along with free delivery. This exclusive addition has been created with our commercial clients in mind, providing an immediate boost to both performance and cost-efficiency.

Perfectly Paired With Our Auto-dosing Equipment

Our detergents are formulated to integrate seamlessly with Forbes’ auto-dosing systems, ensuring optimal cleaning results while reducing chemical waste. Auto-dosing eliminates guesswork by dispensing the precise amount of detergent for each cycle, supporting consistency, hygiene compliance, and operational efficiency.

By starting your journey with a free supply of premium detergent, you can immediately experience the benefits of accurate dosing and controlled usage -  whether you're running a commercial laundry, care environment, hospitality venue, or housing facility.

Designed for Forbes Commercial Appliances

The offer also complements our extensive range of commercial laundry appliances, including washers, dryers, and stacking solutions. Our equipment is engineered for durability, energy efficiency, and high-performance results, and using compatible, high-quality detergents helps extend the lifespan of these machines while delivering excellent wash standards.

This introductory detergent bundle allows new clients to fully maximise their appliance investment from day one, providing an efficient, cost-effective start to any professional laundry operation.

A Great Start for New Customers

This offer supports organisations setting up new sites, upgrading existing equipment, or standardising operations across multiple locations. With free detergent and delivery included in your first order, it’s an ideal opportunity to trial Forbes Professional detergents with no extra upfront cost.

Terms & Conditions Apply:

• Offer valid only on the first detergent order placed with Forbes Professional.
• Minimum order value: £500 (ex. VAT).
• One order per organisation/account.
• Offer cannot be applied across multiple sites.
• Free 50L detergent and free delivery included only with qualifying initial orders.

This challenge applies not only to these environments but also to sectors such as airport ground support operations, rail maintenance teams, cold stores, and large-scale distribution centres - all of which face daily issues with soaked, frozen, or contamination-prone workwear.

Wet workwear, soggy cycling kit, or damp technical fabrics can impact hygiene, safety, garment lifespan, and operational speed. When expensive PPE or sportswear is left to air-dry slowly (and often poorly), you risk mildew, lingering smells, and unnecessary downtime.

This is where the professional drying cabinet steps in.

Forbes Professional supplies premium, purpose-built cabinets from leading manufacturers like Podab, Primus, and Miele. These units offer a quiet, energy-efficient, and incredibly gentle way to dry virtually anything. Crucially, they’re designed for flexible installation, often running on simple single-phase 13amp or 32amp power options. For larger cabinets, there are 3 phase standard or 3 phase heat pump options, making them accessible to facilities of all sizes.

Here are just some of the environments where Forbes Professional installs drying cabinets:

1. Critical Readiness: Aviation, Fire Stations, and Emergency Services

For our emergency services - an area where we have extensive experience, including installations for clients like major regional fire services and aviation rescue teams - the need for a drying cabinet is a matter of life and safety.

This also extends to airport ground support staff, including luggage handlers, ramp agents, refuelling crews, engineering teams and maintenance personnel, who rely heavily on Gore-Tex and high-performance laminated garments that cannot be tumble dried without risking delamination.

After a call-out or shift in extreme conditions, essential gear such as firefighting uniforms or aviation suits must be quickly dried and decontaminated.

• Safety First: Damp PPE is compromised PPE. Moisture retained in multi-layered fabrics can turn to steam when exposed to high heat, posing a serious burn risk to the wearer.• Preserving PPE Integrity: Aggressive tumble drying ruins the reflective stripping, delicate membranes, and fire-retardant properties of technical gear. Our cabinets use non-mechanical airflow, protecting your investment and your team.• Guaranteed Readiness: Emergency services don't run on a standard schedule. Gear needs to be dried and ready for the very next incident. A high-capacity drying cabinet ensures rapid turnaround and complete equipment readiness 24/7.

2. In the Office: Supporting Active Commuters

Many modern businesses encourage wellness and sustainability through Cycle-to-Work or running initiatives. This is a great initiative for the planet and employee health, but it often creates a secondary problem: Where do people dry their wet, sometimes sweaty, gear?

A Forbes Professional drying cabinet transforms clients’ changing room amenities:

• Valued Employee Benefit: It offers a clean, discreet solution for employees who cycle or run to work, allowing them to start their day dry and comfortable. It shows the organisation cares about their wellness commitment.• Sleek and Tidy: The unit neatly consolidates all damp items - helmets, shoes, jackets - into one enclosed space, preventing clutter and odours from polluting office changing areas.• Gentle on Sportswear: Perfect for the sensitive synthetic fabrics (Lycra, Gore-Tex, etc.) found in performance clothing, significantly extending their lifespan beyond what a standard tumble dryer can offer.

3. At Home: The High-End Residential Upgrade

In luxury homes, especially those with extensive utility rooms, boot rooms, or properties near outdoor pursuits, the drying cabinet is the ultimate functional upgrade. It's perfect for items that simply can't go into a standard machine.

• Drying the Undryable: Think expensive riding boots, fishing waders, bulky ski jackets, or delicate cashmere sweaters. These cabinets handle garments that require careful, gentle heat and airflow.• Seamless Integration: The compact footprints from brands like Miele and Podab allow the units to be built directly into bespoke utility room cabinetry, offering a sophisticated, streamlined aesthetic.• Simple Setup: The ease of a single-phase 13-amp connection enables a straightforward installation without requiring the kind of complex electrical work associated with heavy-duty industrial machinery.

4. Major Venues and Commercial Operations

From major sporting venues and prestigious stadiums to high-end residential boot rooms, the uniform and specialised kit requirements are vast and varied.

• Venue Staff Uniforms: Ensures large volumes of staff uniforms, from catering to security, are consistently dry, fresh, and presentable for every event.• Specialised Kit: Capable of drying high-value, bespoke items like football kits, grounds crew overalls, or highly technical gear, such as the flying suits used by our helicopter base clients.

We also support logistics hubs, freezer environments and cold-store distribution centres, where employees work in temperatures as low as –30°C. Jackets and PPE often become moisture-logged and freeze solid, requiring thorough and gentle drying between shifts.

• Flexible Footprint: Compact designs from brands like Podab and Miele fit neatly into small plant rooms or changing facilities, and the single-phase, 13-amp power requirement makes installation straightforward.

5. On Site: The Construction/Industrial Imperative

In the construction sector, where we have clients with facilities across the UK, downtime is costly, and safety is paramount. When heavy-duty high-visibility jackets, boots, and protective gloves get soaked, they need to be dry for the next shift.

• Minimising Downtime: Eliminates the frustration of workers starting a shift in damp gear, boosting comfort, morale, and focus.• Preserving Workwear: Extends the lifespan of expensive, specialised workwear by avoiding the damage caused by high-heat tumbling.• Hygiene and Comfort: By quickly and efficiently drying wet items, you significantly improve the hygiene and comfort of changing areas, removing the risk of lingering dampness, mould, and odours.

These same advantages apply to rail workers, depot teams and technicians, who spend long hours outdoors or in exposed trackside conditions and depend on rapid, non-mechanical drying to maintain both safety and comfort.

The Forbes Professional Commitment

We understand that every organisation has unique, critical requirements. We have implemented our drying solutions in diverse, demanding facilities across the UK, ensuring essential uniforms and equipment are always ready.

Forbes’ National Account Manager, John Dobbs, explains the value:

"Our clients trust these drying cabinets because they deliver on three key metrics: speed, energy efficiency, and textile protection. Whether it’s drying contaminated fire suits for a major regional service, or ensuring all major venue staff uniforms are pristine for a weekend event, these units are essential for organisations that prioritise operational readiness and staff welfare."

If you’re looking to improve operational efficiency, protect your investment in workwear, and provide a superior amenity for your team or residents, a commercial drying cabinet is the answer.

Warm, kind, and quietly brilliant, Elaine is one of those rare people who make everyone -colleagues and customers alike -  feel instantly at ease.

Exceptional Service

Elaine has a natural ability to connect with people. Softly spoken and never pushy, she takes the time to truly listen - understanding each customer’s lifestyle, needs, and budget before offering solutions that genuinely fit.

Her approach isn’t about selling; it’s about helping. That’s what makes her so trusted and so successful. Many of her customers have been with Forbes for years, coming back again and again because they know Elaine will always take care of them.

The customer reviews we receive speak for themselves: 

“Elaine was so helpful.” – S. Lamb

“Elaine was extremely professional and helpful.” – Will

“Elaine who organised the new machine was so lovely.” – C. Gorton

“Elaine made the process so quick and pleasant.” – M. Gooch

🏆 A Well-Deserved Award

Elaine’s Sales Excellence Award at this year’s ERT Awards is a reflection of her dedication, empathy, and commitment to doing things the right way.

She leads by example -  earning Salesperson of the Month for half of the past two quarters and topping the company charts for new customer sign-ups in nine of the last twelve months.

Her success comes from genuine passion and deep product knowledge. She helps customers see the bigger picture - that renting isn’t just affordable and flexible, it’s also a smarter, more sustainable way to live.

Many of Elaine’s customers begin with one product and soon expand their accounts once they experience the ease and value of rental. She helps people realise that choosing refurbished, preloved appliances supports the circular economy, saves money, and provides the peace of mind that comes with Forbes’ award-winning service support.

Elaine on Working for Forbes:

“Forbes really is a unique place to work - both the staff and customers stay with us for decades, which says so much about the company’s values. To receive the award this year was honestly a career highlight for me. I’m proud to be part of a family business that truly cares about people and where we all work together towards a common goal.”  Elaine Coleman

A Trusted Colleague and Friend

Elaine joined Forbes Rentals in 2002, following in her mother’s footsteps, and has grown with the company ever since. Now in her 24th year, she’s seen Forbes evolve - and has been a huge part of that journey.

Elaine balances professionalism with warmth, and her positive energy is felt by everyone she works with. Her colleagues describe her as a “great listener,” “a calming presence,” and “someone you can always count on.”

As Janice Englefield, our Sales Manager, says:

“Elaine is a valued member of the Forbes Sales Team whose positive attitude radiates warmth and enthusiasm, uplifting everyone around her. Her unwavering dedication and sales excellence make her an essential part of our success. I’m proud to call her not only a trusted colleague but also a dear friend.”

Congratulations, Elaine!

Elaine’s award is so well-deserved and a true reflection of who she is; dedicated, thoughtful, and kind. She reminds us that great sales are never just about numbers; they’re about people, care, and connection.

Infection control remains a critical priority in care homes, where laundry processes play a vital role in preventing the spread of harmful pathogens. With the Care Quality Commission (CQC) raising expectations under its new, more rigorous inspection framework, care providers must ensure their laundry operations meet the highest standards for both hygiene and regulatory compliance.

As Hannah highlights, many care homes are still using domestic washing machines that are simply not built for the demands of a healthcare environment. Domestic models lack the validated thermal disinfection cycles and WRAS Category 5 compliance required to ensure infection control and can lead to higher running costs, more breakdowns, and invalidated warranties.

At Forbes Professional, we supply Miele commercial laundry equipment that’s purpose-built for the healthcare sector. These machines deliver:

• Validated thermal disinfection programs for assured hygiene
• Type A air gaps for full WRAS Category 5 compliance
• Heavy-duty performance to handle high laundry volumes efficiently

Our solutions can also incorporate high-performance detergents that work effectively at lower temperatures - supporting both infection control and energy efficiency.

While some operators have explored ozone-based disinfection, this method introduces additional complexities and safety responsibilities. Forbes provides proven, low-risk alternatives that deliver effective, compliant results without added operational burden.

A key differentiator for Forbes Professional is our nationwide service infrastructure. We understand that downtime in a care home laundry room can quickly become a serious issue. To mitigate this, we provide same- or next-day engineer callouts as standard, supported by a network of qualified field engineers and well-stocked service vehicles across the UK.

Our Complete Care rental and service contracts include all maintenance and repairs, helping care homes to manage costs and reduce administrative strain. This end-to-end approach ensures that every care provider we support can maintain safe, compliant, and efficient laundry operations - protecting residents and giving teams peace of mind.

💡 Read the full article in The Carer (page 42): “Forbes Advises Operators on Laundry Best Practice”👉 Visit The Carer online: https://issuu.com/thecarer/docs/the_carer_digital_-_issue_262?fr=sYWQwYjg0MjU1MDE

Some of our team -  Janice Englefield, Wesley Spearing, Laura Barber, Geraldine Jagdeo, Jamie Jagdeo, and Laura Spearing -  were lucky enough to attend as guests and brought family members along to enjoy the day. The team were treated to a huge amount of hospitality from everyone at Merstham FC, who made us feel incredibly welcome from start to finish.

Sadly, Merstham didn’t take the win this time, but it was still a brilliant match and a great showcase of the spirit and dedication that define grassroots football. Our very own Jamie Jagdeo had the honour of selecting and presenting the Player of the Match trophy to Billy Oram-  a highlight of the afternoon!

As a family business with 99 years of history in Surrey, Forbes Professional is deeply rooted in community values. Supporting local clubs and initiatives like this is part of our commitment to giving back and building stronger, more connected communities.

We see this as an important part of our ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) journey — investing not just in sustainable business practices, but in the people and places that make our region thrive.

We’re already looking forward to cheering on the team again soon - ` and continuing to play our part in keeping grassroots sport alive and well.

At Forbes, we understand that efficient laundry processes are essential for maintaining quality, sustainability, and guest satisfaction. Whether you’re running a small retreat, managing a large-scale hospitality site, or planning a new holiday park from the ground up, we can provide tailored commercial laundry, dishwashing and AV solutions that streamline operations and enhance performance.

The LLTS is always a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with our existing partners and to start new conversations with those looking to innovate and improve. Our team will be available throughout the event to share insights, explore your specific challenges, and demonstrate how Forbes’ end-to-end service -  from consultation and installation to ongoing maintenance - can help you achieve your goals.

📅 When: 5th–6th November📍 Where: Stand HP742, LLTS 2025💬 Why Visit: Talk to our experts, discover our latest solutions, and find out how Forbes Professional can help optimise your operations.

We look forward to seeing you there!

To support the higher turnover - particularly for the lodges with hot tubs, which naturally increase laundry volumes - the retreat turned once again to Forbes Professional to deliver additional commercial laundry solutions.

Expanding a Successful Partnership

We first worked with Heron’s Lake Retreat in 2021, when John Dobbs, our National Account Manager, managed the original installation. John has continued to support the resort as their dedicated account contact and recently coordinated the installation of larger-capacity machines to meet the site’s growing operational needs.

After conducting a detailed site consultation, John specified the Miele PWM 514 (15kg washer) and Miele PDR 516 (16kg dryer) -  robust, high-capacity machines designed to handle heavy usage while maintaining fast turnaround times. These machines will perfectly compliment the machines we installed previously. The site continues to also benefit from our Miele dryer ironer -  a specialist machine that enables a precision dry whilst simultaneously ironing, ensuring an optimum finish for bed linen and flat work.

John Dobbs, National Account Manager at Forbes Professional, commented:
“Heron’s Lake Retreat is a prestige site with a high volume of washing, especially given their luxury accommodation and hot tub lodges. The new Miele machines will take up the extra strain and free up more time for other essential jobs. With Forbes’ comprehensive service support, the team can rely on uninterrupted performance and complete peace of mind.”

Efficient Solutions for a Growing Industry

The new installation allows Heron’s Lake Retreat to keep laundry operations fully in-house, giving them greater control over turnaround times, quality, and cost efficiency. With Forbes Professional’s Complete Care rental solution, the retreat benefits from:

• No repair or replacement bills 
• Multi-award-winning service support 
• A sustainable and financially efficient approach

Forbes is finding that, increasingly, holiday parks and lodges are investing in their on-site operations to enhance the guest experience and build long-term resilience. With a nationwide infrastructure and after a century of operation, Forbes provides trusted, sustainable, and fully supported laundry solutions to the leisure and hospitality sectors.

For the leisure and tourism industry, guest experience is everything, and at Forbes Professional, we understand that behind every clean towel or working screen lies a carefully considered operational setup.

That’s why we work closely with holiday parks, family resorts, landowners, and cottage operators across the UK to deliver robust, efficient laundry and AV solutions that fit both their environment and their end users.

It’s a sector full of variety,  and that’s exactly what makes it so interesting. One day our industry experts are  advising a farm conversion adding Miele Little Giants to a pair of rustic holiday cottages. The next, we’re speaking with landowners looking to develop a glamping site from scratch, talking utilities, LPG, and what will work best for their container pods.

We also support large family amusement parks needing guest-use laundry rooms, on-site staff OPLs, and crèche-friendly AV screens for busy soft play areas. For every one of these clients, the requirements may be different -  but the need for reliability, sustainability, and expert advice is the same.

“We take a fully consultative approach; whether it’s one cottage or a 20-unit site,” says Laura Spearing, Business Development Manager. “We listen to what clients need and guide them through it, always keeping budget, usage and site restrictions in mind.”

Across the leisure sector, laundry is often a behind-the-scenes essential. From self-service launderettes for guests to back-of-house setups for processing linens, bedding, and even amusement park costumes, the right configuration matters.

We design and install both guest-facing launderettes and OPLs tailored to the throughput, layout, and staffing model of your site. Whether you're running a compact park or a multi-acre resort, our scalable systems help you stay operational without compromise.

Our auto-dosing machines ensure precise detergent delivery, reducing waste and saving time; especially important in self-service environments or busy staff-run laundries. We also supply high-quality detergent for a complete, turn-key laundry solution. 

When it comes to payment solutions, we offer a range of options to suit your audience. From contactless, cashless card machines to traditional coin-fed and token-operated systems, our machines are built to be simple, intuitive, and user-friendly, with full support and servicing included.

Early-stage involvement is often key, especially when speaking to landowners or developers. Our team is frequently brought in whilst plans are still on the drawing board;  offering guidance on infrastructure and equipment setup before any trenches are dug or walls go up.

“We’re often brought in at the start, when landowners are still deciding how to use the space,” explains John Dobbs, National Account Manager. “Having that early input allows us to build smarter, futureproof solutions from the ground up.”

Our solutions aren’t just about hardware. They’re about ongoing support- whether that’s with fully managed rental agreements, remote diagnostics, contactless payment systems, or detergent provision with auto-dosing machines that minimise waste and save time.

Sustainability is always front of mind. As proud winners of the IER Sustainability Award, we prioritise energy-efficient appliances, reconditioned equipment, and the reuse of spare parts wherever possible. It’s better for the planet and for our clients’ bottom lines; especially in a sector grappling with high energy costs.

We also supply hospitality TVs, signage screens, and IPTV solutions to enhance the guest experience - often installing AV alongside laundry in parks, lodges, and clubhouses.

This November, we’ll be at the Land, Leisure & Tourism Show, and we’re looking forward to reconnecting with existing partners and starting new conversations. Whether you’re running a small retreat or planning a new park from scratch, stop by Stand HP742, we’d love to hear what you’re working on.

We were honoured to be finalists in three prestigious categories:

• Best Independent Electrical Retailer Website
• Best Sustainable Independent Electrical Retailer
• Sales Excellence Award (Elaine Coleman)

We’re thrilled to share that we achieved Highly Commended recognition in two categories:
🏆 Best Sustainable Independent Electrical Retailer
🏆 Sales Excellence – Elaine Coleman

Elaine has been an integral part of the Forbes Rentals family for 24 years, consistently delivering outstanding results and setting the benchmark for excellence. She has earned Salesperson of the Month for 50% of the time over recent quarters, and the glowing reviews she receives from customers are a testament to her quiet, consultative, and friendly approach. Her recognition at the ERT Awards is richly deserved, and we couldn’t be prouder.

At Forbes Rentals, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Regeneration and responsible operations are not just goals, they are embedded throughout our operations. We’re proud of our team of Sustainability Champions, who work closely with Hannah Forbes to ensure that ESG principles guide every aspect of our business.

These awards are a wonderful reflection of the passion, teamwork, and innovation that drive us forward every day. Congratulations to our entire team and heartfelt thanks to our loyal customers and partners who continue to support our mission to deliver excellence - sustainably.

We’re incredibly proud to support Demelza Hospice Care for Children, a charity that provides vital clinical care, emotional support, and respite for children with serious or terminal conditions – and for their families too.

At times when families are facing the unimaginable, Demelza steps in with expert care and boundless compassion. Their work changes lives.

Our Partnership with Demelza

As part of our corporate partnership with Demelza, our team regularly volunteers their time, contributes through donations, and participates in fundraising activities to help this incredible charity continue their vital work.

From taking part in sponsored runs and bake sales, to packing gifts, painting spaces, and helping with events – we're proud to roll up our sleeves and get involved.

Why It Matters

Every hour of time donated, every pound raised, and every voice used to spread the word makes a difference. Hospice and palliative care isn’t just about end-of-life, it’s about helping children and families live every day to the fullest, with dignity, support, and joy.

How You Can Help

If you can, please join us in supporting Demelza. Whether it’s through a donation, volunteering your time, or simply learning more about the cause, your support helps them continue providing world-class care when families need it most.

👉 Support Demelza here: www.demelza.org.uk

Every bit counts.

We’re thrilled to be back at the Independent Hotel Show 2025, taking place today and tomorrow at Olympia London. It’s always a highlight in the hospitality calendar — and we’re looking forward to catching up with familiar faces and meeting new ones.

If you're attending, do come and visit us at Stand 1122. Whether you’re in the early stages of planning an OPL setup, navigating compliance challenges, or simply exploring smarter operational solutions, we’d love to chat.

Proud Partners to Independent Hotels Across the UK

At Forbes Professional, we work hand-in-hand with independent hotels to deliver solutions that genuinely make a difference. Our clients come to us for our expertise -  and stay with us because we understand the realities of running a hotel in today’s climate.

Whether it’s helping to streamline operations, navigate compliance regulations, or optimise space and budgets, we take a consultative approach -  ensuring every recommendation fits your individual needs, not a one-size-fits-all model.

That’s something our clients value deeply:

"Having changed from another large provider some 18 months ago, we cannot express how delighted we are with every aspect of our involvement with Forbes.
From the planning of our laundry layout, to the quality and efficiency of the equipment, and the follow-up customer service — everything has been first class.
The added bonus is that the equipment is less expensive to run in both water and electricity. We should have changed years ago!"
- Hotel in Kent

Why More Hoteliers Are Bringing Laundry In-House

Laundry might not be the first thing guests think about, but for hoteliers, it’s a daily pressure point. Turnaround times, quality control, hygiene standards; they all feed directly into the guest experience.

It’s no surprise that:

• 85% of hoteliers agree that bringing laundry in-house helps maintain consistent standards
• 45% say they’ve experienced issues with outsourced laundry not returning in time for check-in

An On-Premise Laundry setup puts you back in control - over both logistics and finances. It removes the uncertainty of third-party delays and gives you the flexibility to adapt to fluctuating occupancy levels.

Speak to Industry Experts – We’re Here to Help

Our stand isn’t just about products, it’s about conversation . Our consultants are genuine industry experts with years of experience working with hotels like yours. They’ll be on-hand throughout the show to offer practical advice and answer any questions, whether you’re considering an OPL setup or looking to improve your current one.

We’re also joined today by Ela Hedges from Miele Professional, one of our trusted partners, whose industry knowledge and technical insights always add value to the discussion.

Let’s Talk

So whether you're grappling with linen turnaround times, rethinking compliance strategies, or just want to learn more about what’s possible - drop by Stand 1122. We’d love to hear about your challenges, share what’s worked for other hotels, and explore how we can help.

See you at the show- and whilst you are there, scan the QR code to visit our informative e-brochure, and gain access to a show specific offer!

In care environments, where hygiene, compliance, and reliability are absolutely critical, laundry systems must work flawlessly. That’s why our Complete Care solution is tailored specifically for the demands of care homes; offering robust, cost-effective commercial laundry equipment without the need for upfront capital investment.

Our fully inclusive rental packages cover:

• Premium commercial-grade machines
• Free installation
• Ongoing servicing and maintenance
• Same or next-day engineer response nationwide

Unexpected equipment breakdowns can cause real disruption to daily care routines. Our clients benefit from award-winning customer support and preventative maintenance strategies that keep systems compliant and efficient.

We take care of the essential tasks often overlooked, like:

• Annual Gas Safety Checks (Regulation 35 compliance)
• Professional dryer duct cleaning for fire prevention and performance

Whether you're upgrading equipment, maintaining existing machines, or looking for a complete laundry solution, we offer flexible procurement options including rental, service-only, and purchase routes.

👉 Read the full editorial in The Carer here

At Forbes Professional, we take great pride in nurturing talent and celebrating those who contribute to our success. One such individual is Alice Englefield, who recently left to begin her university studies at Birmingham University, where she’ll be pursuing a degree in Philosophy.

Alice initially joined us for a work experience placement in July 2023 and soon became an invaluable member of our B2C Sales Team, supporting our  consumer operation, Forbes Rentals.

Her role focused on engaging with customers who applied via our website - confirming personal details, conducting credit checks, and helping guide them toward suitable rental products. Alice brought a high level of professionalism, excellent communication skills, and a consistently positive approach to every task.

Although her role was within the B2C sales support team, her work intersected with the broader Forbes values - namely, a commitment to service excellence, attention to detail, and human-centred communication.

It was a pleasure to have Alice onboard - her grandmother, Janice, is a long-serving and respected member of our Management Team and we knew she would be a valuable addition to the team! At Forbes, family is at the heart of our business, and we’re always delighted to see that tradition carried forward.

Alice leaves us on a high note - having secured her A-Level results and a place at her chosen university - but we are pleased to say this is not goodbye. She plans to return during university holidays, and we very much look forward to welcoming her back.

In this short video, CEO Kevin Herring and Director of Marketing & Brand Strategy Hannah Forbes explain how our rental, purchase, maintenance and service packages are tailored to meet the demands a wide range of clients. We deliver a local-based response on a nationwide basis, with streamlined processes that deliver a uniformed breakdown service across the UK. As Hannah notes, our centralised response system is “especially invaluable for multi-site operators,” ensuring consistency and speed across every location from a single point of contact.

With an expansive fleet of tracked vans, localised service teams, and national coverage, we expedite engineer callouts and minimise downtime. Our in-house engineers include Gas Safe, manufacturer-certified, and City & Guilds trained responders who deliver consistent, compliant, expert support.

We offer premium commercial laundry appliances from Miele, alongside IPSO, Huebsch, and Primus to suit all budgets and operational needs. Whether you're searching for “commercial appliance rental” or “rent Miele washing machines,” Forbes Professional delivers reliability, flexibility, and award-winning support.

Watch this, and more videos, on our You Tube channel:  

https://youtu.be/Ht-zCjrGNWg

Why choose commercial over domestic washing machines?

Many care homes and housing providers still rely on domestic washers, which often can’t keep up with demand. They aren’t designed for high-frequency use, may not meet hygiene regulations, and are likely to break down more often.

A commercial machine is purpose-built for longevity, efficiency, and compliance. It’s a more resilient and cost-effective solution for organisations that need to process laundry every day.

Using the right commercial laundry equipment ensures long-term reliability, safety, and compliance. We always recommend seeking advice from a trusted commercial laundry specialist to ensure your solution is fit for purpose.

Key Considerations When Choosing Commercial Washing Machines

At Forbes, we guide clients through a full suitability process to ensure the equipment we provide meets all of their site-specific needs. Key factors we assess include:

• Capacity requirements for volume and frequency of washes
• Cycle speed and turnaround time
• Validated thermal disinfection options for hygiene compliance
• Energy and water efficiency to support sustainability
• Machine durability and expected lifecycle
• Ease of use and programmable controls for different users
• Payment system compatibility, including contactless and app-based options
• Available space and access at the installation site
• Existing service infrastructure and integration needs

We’ll help you make the right decisions based on your setting - whether you run a care facility, a boutique hotel, a veterinary clinic, university halls, or a housing portfolio.

Which Are the Best Commercial Washing Machines?

Forbes supplies, installs, and services a carefully selected range of professional commercial washing machines to suit a wide variety of environments. The best commercial washing machines will always depend on your site's specific needs- whether that’s hygiene, capacity, energy efficiency, or ease of use.

We are proud to deliver high-performance commercial laundry equipment from some of the industry's most trusted manufacturers:

Miele

• Sets the industry standard as the premium brand in commercial laundry 
• Exquisite German engineering, long machine life, and exceptional reliability across demanding environments
• Known for exceptional hygiene standards and wash performance
• Offers validated thermal disinfection cycles
• Fully WRAS Category 5 compliant, meeting healthcare regulations
• Heat pump dryers cut energy use by up to 65%
• Ideal for care homes, hospitals, PBSAs and high-demand 7 day/ week commercial laundry sites
• Integrated seamlessly with our contactless and app-based pament solutions

Primus

• Engineered for durability and straightforward operation
• Popular with sheltered accommodation providers and HMOs
• Great value, offering high-capacity washers and dryers at competitive pricing

IPSO

• Robust design for heavy daily usage
• Particularly popular in caravan and holiday parks 
• Intuitive controls, built-in diagnostics, and optional payment integrations
• Supports auto-dosing systems for detergent efficiency

Huebsch

• Trusted for reliability and long machine life
• Especially renowned for their large commercial washers and dryers
• Offers efficient wash performance and advanced moisture sensing on dryers
• Easily integrates with coin, token, or contactless payment options

Does Forbes help meet hygiene standards?

Yes. In healthcare environments, hygiene is paramount. Our Miele machines are designed with infection control in mind, offering validated thermal disinfection cycles and compliance with WRAS Category 5 standards.

Forbes also supplies auto-dosing systems and compatible detergents to support low-temperature wash efficiency without compromising hygiene.

Does Forbes support sustainability targets?

Absolutely. Sustainability is a key part of our service offering. Our Miele heat pump dryers cut energy usage by up to 65%, helping our clients reduce both emissions and costs. We also:

• Offer full carbon footprint data
• Encourage heat pump technology adoption
• Use hybrid delivery vehicles
• Run operations using 100% renewable electricity
• Promote equipment rental to extend product lifespan and reduce waste

Our circular economy approach ensures that returned or end-of-life machines are refurbished, reused, or responsibly recycled.

What kind of after-sales support does Forbes provide?

We offer nationwide coverage with our in-house team of trained engineers, and every client receives:

• Same- or next-day breakdown response
• Preventative maintenance visits
• Full support with parts, repairs and servicing
• Ongoing account management
• Optional rental or purchase models, with maintenance included

Is commercial laundry machine installation included?

Yes. Our two-person teams deliver, install and commission the machines at a time that suits your site. We conduct pre-installation site surveys, prepare access plans, and ensure full regulatory compliance from the outset.

Can Forbes handle multiple sites?

Yes. We’re experienced in managing laundry solutions across multi-site contracts, from housing associations and care groups to hotel groups, university networks and PBSA providers. Our centralised service responses streamline operations for clients across the country, enabling a localised response on a national scale. We provide:

• Coordinated rollouts
• Central account management
• Installation planning per site
• Scalable service and support

Does Forbes supply refurbished machines?

We do. As part of our sustainability focus, we offer fully refurbished, pre-loved models at a lower monthly cost. These go through full commissioning and quality checks by our in-house engineers before being delivered to your site.

Does Forbes offer rental plans?

Yes. We offer purchase with maintenance, maintenance contracts for in-situ laundry machines and commercial laundry rental. Our rental plans include everything- delivery, installation, servicing and support- with no large upfront costs. This allows organisations to manage budgets more easily, while keeping laundry equipment fully operational and compliant.

Why choose Forbes?

• Established since 1926
• Trusted partner to public and private sector clients
• In-house engineers- no subcontractors
• WRAS, SafeContractor, and BHTA accredited
• Award-winning customer service
• Committed to sustainability and energy efficiency

Speak to us about commercial laundry solutions

Whether you're upgrading a care home's laundry, setting up student accommodation, or OPL or rolling out a solution across a housing portfolio, Forbes is here to help.

Call our team on 0345 070 2335

At Forbes Professional, we support care homes, hospitals, universities, PBSAs, and hotels in taking a more responsible approach—through rental models that reduce waste, lower carbon impact, and extend equipment lifecycle. Our partnerships with industry-leading manufacturers such as Miele Professional allow us to deliver best-in-class technology with full service support.

Renting- A Circular Model That Reduces Environmental Waste

Rather than purchasing commercial appliances outright—often leading to under-utilisation, early replacement, or poor end-of-life management—renting offers a more sustainable, circular alternative. Our clients benefit from:

• Ongoing maintenance and repairs
• Flexible upgrades
• Responsible removal and refurbishment
• Access to high-efficiency, low-consumption appliances

We also offer fully reconditioned machines, thoroughly restored by our engineers, providing a lower-carbon, lower-cost solution with no compromise on reliability or compliance.

Heat Pump Dryers- A Game-Changer for Sustainable Laundry Operations

For laundry-intensive environments such as care homes and student residences, traditional tumble dryers can be some of the most energy-demanding equipment on site. Heat pump dryers offer a dramatic improvement in energy efficiency—and they are fast becoming the gold standard for sustainable commercial laundry.

Our range of Miele Professional heat pump dryers uses up to 65% less energy than conventional vented or condenser dryers. Rather than venting hot air externally, heat pump technology recirculates warm air through a highly efficient closed-loop system. This approach ensures:

• Lower operating temperatures, which are gentler on fabrics
• Significant reductions in energy consumption and cost
• No need for external venting infrastructure, making installation more flexible
• Longer textile lifespan, reducing the frequency of linen replacement

For commercial operations looking to reduce their carbon footprint and utility bills, without compromising throughput or performance, heat pump dryers represent a strategic long-term investment.

Miele- Our Trusted Partner in Commercial Sustainability

We are proud to work in partnership with Miele Professional, whose commitment to sustainability and product durability aligns perfectly with our service-led rental model. Their products are built for longevity and repairability—two essential principles for reducing waste and resource use.

Miele’s innovation in both laundry and warewashing includes intuitive interfaces, intelligent consumption control, and features designed to reduce energy, water, and detergent use across the board.

Dishwashing That Uses Less- Without Doing Less

The Miele PFD 400 series dishwashers are another standout for organisations seeking low-consumption equipment. These commercial-grade machines are ideal for care settings, hospitality, and smaller institutional kitchens, offering:

• Freshwater wash systems for hygienic, low-water usage cycles
• Auto-sensing load adjustment to prevent wasteful operation
• Eco cycle using as little as 9.5L of water per wash
• Integrated heat recovery and insulation to reduce energy consumption

As with all Miele equipment, these machines are designed to last—and through our rental service, they’re also fully maintained and supported throughout their lifecycle.

Fully Supported, Fully Sustainable

When you rent with Forbes Professional, sustainability doesn’t come at the cost of performance or convenience. We provide:

• Free delivery and expert installation
• Full maintenance, servicing, and call-out support
• Removal and ethical disposal or refurbishment at end of life

This managed service model ensures that your appliances stay efficient, compliant, and waste-free for as long as possible.

Whether you're managing laundry for a 24/7 care facility or ensuring hygiene standards in student accommodation, sustainability is no longer a ‘nice to have’ - it’s an operational imperative. By choosing to rent high-efficiency equipment such as heat pump dryers and low-consumption dishwashers, your organisation can take meaningful steps toward its environmental goals.

And with our reconditioned options and fully serviced packages, that journey is more accessible than ever.

Ian joined Forbes in 2007, following his wife and fellow National Account Manager, Gill Russell. He brought with him a wealth of experience from previous roles at Arcadia, BHS, and Selfridges, and quickly became an integral part of our team. Over the years, Ian carved out a niche in hospitality TV and AV solutions, while also expanding our commercial laundry provision.

A true industry figurehead, Ian is known for his personable nature, quick wit, and infectious warmth and enthusiasm. Whether at exhibitions or client meetings, his presence has always been a highlight. He’s cultivated enduring relationships with clients, industry peers, and manufacturers such as Philips, Samsung, LG, and Miele - not to mention the many colleagues who have had the pleasure of working alongside him.

Forbes CEO Kevin Herring shared his thoughts:

“Ian’s passion and dedication have been instrumental in shaping our presence in the hospitality and healthcare industries. He is more than just a colleague—he is a friend to many and a true professional. His expertise and wit will be sorely missed, and we wish him all the very best in his retirement.”

Ian’s deep expertise in hospitality TV solutions has guided countless clients through innovations in IPTV, guest information channels, and digital signage. His legacy is one of professionalism, passion, and genuine care.

Ian reflected on his time at Forbes:

“It has been an absolute honour to be part of Forbes for the last 18 years. I've had the pleasure of working with an amazing team and building some fantastic relationships with our clients. While I am looking forward to retirement, and spending more time with grandchildren, I will miss everyone greatly. I am leaving the business in a fantastic position, and I look forward to keeping up with everyone at future events!”

Although Ian is stepping away from his role, this is far from a final goodbye. With Gill continuing her work at Forbes, we’re sure to see Ian again very soon.

From all of us at Forbes - thank you, Ian, for your dedication, your warmth, and the incredible legacy you leave behind.

Known to many as Donald, our founder’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and innovation. Born in the early 20th century, Don contracted polio as a child and spent long periods convalescing at home. But rather than let his illness hold him back, he used that time to fuel a budding passion for electronics- building crystal radio sets in his bedroom and immersing himself in the early technology of the age.

From those beginnings, a business was born. In 1926, at just 19 years old, Don began building and servicing radios, marconiphones and charging radio batteries for local customers. What started as a solo venture soon evolved into a trusted local service; one built on reliability, hands-on expertise, and genuine care for customers.

By the 1960s, with colour televisions entering the mainstream, Don’s entrepreneurial instincts kicked in again. He opened a TV, radio, and radiogram shop in Purley, Surrey, and across the road, a domestic appliance shop. Whether customers needed their TV fixed or a new washing machine delivered, Don and his team were always ready, offering practical solutions and old-fashioned service that people could count on.

“My father believed in always putting the customer first” says Stuart Forbes, Chairman. “He taught us that long-term relationships are worth more than any quick sale. That belief remains at the heart of everything we do at Forbes today.”

Donald’s sons, Malcolm and Stuart, joined him in 1958 and 1967 respectively. Together, they expanded the business into the rental market.  At a time when a colour television could cost as much as a Morris Minor, the equivalent of thousands of pounds in today’s money, renting offered families a more affordable and flexible way to enjoy the latest technology. Forbes was there to meet that need.

As the UK's motorway network expanded, so too did the business. Forbes grew into a nationwide operation, yet remained firmly rooted in the family values and customer-centric mindset initialled instilled by Mr Forbes Snr.

Today, Forbes continues as a proud family-run company, serving thousands of households and businesses across the UK. Our customers still appreciate the benefits of leasing – affordability, convenience, flexibility, and sustainability. Many start with one rental product and quickly add more, thanks to our award-winning support and trusted service.

In addition to domestic customers, we’ve also become a trusted provider for the commercial sector  - including care homes, hospitals, universities, hotels, and shared accommodation providers - all relying on our responsive and reliable rental support.

This World Entrepreneurs' Day, we honour the ingenuity, resilience, and vision of Frederick Donald Forbes. His legacy is alive in every customer interaction, every appliance delivered, and every long-standing relationship we’ve built.

“My father didn’t just start a business,” Stuart Forbes, Chairman, reflects. “He built a philosophy – that service matters, that people matter. It’s something we’ll never lose sight of.”

The Miele heat pump dryers supplied by Forbes Professional are NOT affected by this warning.

The OPSS warning specifically targets approximately 17,000 heat pump dryers that were modified by Haier as part of a Corrective Action Programme. The affected brands include Candy, Baumatic, Caple, Haier, Hoover, Iberna, Lamona, and Montpellier.

As our partner, you can be assured that the Miele heat pump dryers we supply and maintain are fully compliant with all safety standards and are not part of the affected group of appliances. You can continue to operate your machinery with absolute confidence in its safety and reliability.

We have a dedicated support team available to answer any questions or provide further information. Your operational continuity and safety are our top priorities.

Afternoon Tea Week is a time for indulgence – mini cakes, fresh scones, and endless cups of tea. But as your team prepares the perfect spread, will your back-of-house cope with the clean-up?

💧 Smarter Solutions for Sustainable Kitchens

At the heart of Miele’s professional dishwashing range is the PDF 401, a high-performance model equipped with a smart fresh water system and an 85°C final rinse – ensuring germ-free results that meet the highest hygiene standards.

Available through Forbes Professional, Miele dishwashers are engineered for busy commercial settings. They drastically cut water and energy consumption using intelligent sensors, eco programmes, and heat recovery – all while delivering outstanding cleaning results.

➡️ Miele fresh water dishwashers use as little as 6 litres per cycle – compared to the 40–60 litres typically wasted by manual washing.

⚡ Built for Efficiency, Engineered for Demanding Environments

From integrated water softening and 5-minute cycles to heat exchanger drying that reuses residual heat, Miele’s WRAS-approved models are designed for seamless compliance in care and hospitality settings.

🧠 Connected Care, Effortless Compliance

Forbes provides:
✅ Free site assessments
✅ Professional installation and staff training
✅ Ongoing servicing and support

Contact us today to see how we can help you optimise efficiency in your kitchen,

Our recent installation is a perfect example of what we mean by an end-to-end laundry solution. It’s a look behind the scenes at how we support our clients, from planning and specification, to delivery, installation, and ongoing maintenance, all backed by decades of specialist expertise.

It's More Than Just Machines

As well as providing high-performance commercial laundry equipment, Forbes also supplies the infrastructure, systems, and support that bring those machines to life and keep them running at optimal efficiency. That includes auto-dosing systems, compliant detergent supply, and careful consideration of client-specific needs; such as supporting allergy-sensitive environments.

Many of our clients operate in regulated or high-dependency settings, such as care homes, hospitals, or hospitality venues, where laundry must meet strict hygiene standards. We ensure all of our systems align with CQC guidance and WRAS Category 5 compliance, helping organisations meet their responsibilities with confidence.

Precision, Hygiene and Efficiency with Auto-Dosing

One of many considerations for professional laundry setup is an auto-dosing system. This technology ensures that every wash cycle receives the correct amount of detergent and chemicals, eliminating the guesswork, waste and human error that can come with manual dosing.

Auto-dosing reduces product waste and improves staff workflow by automating a typically hands-on process. When paired with our commercial-grade machines, including models from trusted brands such as Miele it can become an integral part of a fully optimised laundry solution.

Allergy-Friendly Detergent Solutions

Increasingly, we’re supporting clients with detergents provision.  Whether in a care home, a student residence, or a hotel, residents and guests expect their laundry to be hygienic and accessible.

We offer both bio and non bio detergents  to cater to sensitive skin and can help ensure that the set-up also allows flexibility for those with allergies. Our products are fully compatible with our auto-dosing systems, allowing for precision and peace of mind in every wash.

Installed by Experts, Backed by Award-Winning Service

Every Forbes installation is carried out by our own in-house engineers, not third-party contractors. This ensures a high standard of quality, accountability, and consistency throughout the project. Our teams bring years of experience and an in-depth understanding of regulatory requirements, site-specific challenges, and operational best practice.

Following installation, our clients benefit from proactive, award-winning service support delivered by a nationwide network of engineers. We understand how critical your laundry operation is, which is why we prioritise fast response times and preventative maintenance to minimise downtime and disruption.

As Kevin Herring, CEO at Forbes, says:

“We don’t just supply machines, we deliver complete solutions. Whether it's a boutique hotel or a multi-site care operator, our job is to make laundry efficient, compliant, and stress-free.”

At Forbes, we start by understanding your needs; conducting detailed site surveys and offering CAD planning services where needed. From there, we deliver fully integrated systems that streamline laundry operations, support hygiene goals, and help facilities meet their compliance obligations.

Whether you're launching a new launderette, upgrading your care home facilities, or managing a multi-site property portfolio, we’re here to help you build a robust and future-proof laundry operation.

Our nominations include:

• 🏆 Best Independent Electrical Retailer Website
• 🏆 Best Sustainable Independent Electrical Retailer
• 🏆 Sales Excellence Award – Elaine Coleman

This is much appreciated recognition of our ongoing commitment to customer experience, innovation, and responsible retailing - across both our digital presence and operational practices.

Our Website Is Our Showroom

Being shortlisted for Best Independent Electrical Retailer Website is a particularly meaningful achievement for our consumer arm, Forbes Rentals. Our website truly is our showroom - the first touchpoint and a critical part of our customers’ journey. 

This recognition, which comes on the heels of a similar nomination at this year’s IER Awards, celebrates the work we’ve done to make our online space as intuitive, accessible, and user-focused as possible. From helping customers easily explore product options to guiding them through flexible rental solutions, the website is central to our customer journey.

A huge credit goes to our Forbes Rentals Web Designer, Jason Rigby, and the marketing team, whose hard work and creativity have helped shape a digital space that reflects our values and meets the needs of modern customers.

Putting Sustainability First

We’re also honoured to be shortlisted for Best Sustainable Independent Electrical Retailer; a category that reflects the heart of our business. Through regeneration, reuse, and responsible recycling, our rental model helps minimise waste and promote a more sustainable way to consume electrical goods.

This nomination reinforces the importance of sustainable practices in retail and the value of circular business models.

Celebrating Sales Success

A huge congratulations to Elaine Coleman, who has been shortlisted for the Sales Excellence Award. Elaine has worked at Forbes for 24 years, delivering a consistently strong performance and receiving glowing customer feedback for the friendly and consultative service that she provides to our consumer customers. She has earned multiple Salesperson of the Month awards in recent years and her dedication and results speak for themselves.

High Profile Industry Recognition

To be recognised in these three categories is a significant honour for us at Forbes. It’s a reflection of the people behind our group, the values we hold, and the ongoing commitment we’ve made to quality, service, and sustainability.

“We are thrilled to be shortlisted across these three diverse and meaningful categories. It reflects the strength of our team and the values that drive Forbes forward - from delivering an exceptional digital experience, to leading with sustainability, and providing outstanding service.  On a personal level, Elaine Coleman should be exceptionally proud of all she has achieved, she is a true asset. Whether it’s online, operational, or personal, these nominations highlight the commitment and care that go into every part of what we do.”Kevin Herring, CEO. 

Thank you to all our customers, partners, and industry peers for your support - we’re looking forward to celebrating the ERT Awards in October!

As we approach our 100-year anniversary in 2026, we’re celebrating the people behind the name that keep our service running smoothly. One such person is Olivia Ide, who supports the domestic consumer base of Forbes Rentals with warmth and professionalism.

Olivia joined the team over two and a half years ago as a Customer Accounts Clerk and has become a valued member of the accounts team; a friendly voice helping customers manage direct debits, handle invoice queries, and navigate their rental accounts.

“When I first joined Forbes, I was amazed by how loyal the customers are,” Olivia says. “I often speak to people who’ve been with us for decades — even generations. One woman told me her mum and grandmother were both Forbes customers, so for her it was just an abvious choice.”

Though Olivia works on the consumer side, her dedication reflects the culture that runs throughout our organisation - one of genuine care, trusted service, and dependable support, which our commercial clients benefit from just as much.

“Olivia has a wonderfully warm and professional manner,” says Geraldine Jagdeo, Accounts Manager. “She genuinely cares about helping people, which shines through in every conversation.”

Whether it’s a family renting a washer or a multi-site care operator, our customers all receive:

• ✅ Award-winning service response
• ✅ Expert support, tailored to each situation
• ✅ Flexible contracts with full servicing included

Recently, Olivia also took part in a charity walk to raise funds for Demelza Children’s Hospice, reflecting the values we hold dear: community, compassion, and making a meaningful difference.

As we continue to grow our operations across sectors; from housing and care homes to hospitality and education, we remain committed to maintaining the human, responsive service that defines Forbes.

We’re proud to share our recent feature in Care Home Magazine, where we offer practical guidance on how to optimise your laundry operations to meet CQC and WRAS requirements, while supporting both hygiene and efficiency.

Many care homes still rely on domestic or light commercial machines, unaware that they may not meet the high hygiene standards demanded in care environments. Domestic appliances lack sluice cycles, can’t achieve consistent thermal disinfection, and aren’t WRAS Category 5 compliant - meaning they can pose real risks to residents and staff, as well as leave your facility exposed to regulatory breaches.

At Forbes, we supply commercial-grade laundry equipment, including machines from Miele’s hygiene-certified range, which are:

✔️ Engineered for thermal disinfection✔️ WRAS Category 5 compliant✔️ Equipped with sluice and hygiene-specific wash programs✔️ Backed by nationwide engineer support and proactive servicing

We also conduct free site surveys to tailor solutions for each care home; taking into account everything from load volumes to workflow optimisation and available space. It’s all part of our commitment to helping care providers achieve maximum compliance and operational efficiency.

Whether you're operating a small residential home or a large multi-site group, our support goes far beyond installation. With CAD designs, ongoing maintenance, and a dedicated engineer network, we help care homes build and maintain laundry infrastructures that are resilient, compliant, and fit for purpose.

“Every element of our care sector offering is designed to support safer environments for residents and staff alike,” says Stuart Forbes, Chairman. “Laundry should never be an afterthought  -  it's a crucial part of the wider infection control strategy, and we’re proud to be a trusted partner to care providers across the UK.”

Read Hannah Forbes' full article in the Care Home Magazine here: https://carehomemagazine.co.uk/magazine-library/

Winning Best Customer Service is a particularly meaningful milestone for Forbes. From our sales and customer care advisors to our installation and service engineers to those in operations, logistics, and account management, every individual at Forbes plays a role in delivering the outstanding service that has become synonymous with our brand.

“This achievement is something that every member of staff can, and should, feel incredibly proud of,” said Hannah Forbes, Director of Marketing and Brand Strategy. “Together, we ensure that the customer is at the centre of every stage of the journey-from initial enquiry, through to delivery, installation and ongoing support.”

This award recognises not just frontline interactions, but the seamless behind-the-scenes efforts that allow us to exceed expectations and provide a truly exceptional customer experience.

We were also honoured to be highly commended in the Best Marketing and Advertising Campaigns category. This recognition underscores our commitment to creating campaigns that go far beyond traditional promotion.

“Our marketing is being driven forward with real purpose and clarity under the leadership of Hannah Forbes.” said Kevin Herring, CEO. “These campaigns extend way beyond visibility - they are about building trust, fostering lasting relationships, and ensuring our brand consistently reflects our values and commitment to sustainability.”

As we celebrate these achievements, we remain focused on continuous improvement and innovation; striving to raise the bar even higher as we approach our centenary anniversary next year.

Stuart Forbes, Chairman says, “Congratulations to the entire Forbes team. Your hard work and commitment have made this recognition possible, and we couldn’t be prouder. These awards validate the customer-centric path we’ve taken and inspire us to keep delivering excellence across every touchpoint.”

As part of the upgrade, Hotensify managed the full IPTV infrastructure, including the installation of aerial systems and a central management server. Forbes Professional supplied and configured Philips MediaSuite Android TVs, providing a fully integrated solution with built-in Chromecast functionality.

Guests at The Alfriston Hotel can now enjoy a seamless, connected entertainment experience  -  from live TV and on-demand apps to streaming content directly from their own devices.

“Our collaboration facilitates the smooth integration of Philips Professional Displays and Android-based Smart TVs, enabling hotels like The Alfriston to deliver a premium, personalised in-room entertainment experience,” said Ian Russell, National Account Manager at Forbes Professional. “Today’s guests expect the same level of digital convenience they have at home — and we’re proud to help The Alfriston Hotel exceed those expectations.”

This project demonstrates our shared commitment to delivering innovative, future-ready technology that supports the evolving needs of the hospitality sector. By working closely together, Forbes Professional and Hotensify are helping to create connected, guest-focused environments that enhance every stay.

We’re proud to share our recent feature in The Carer magazine, where we explore how Forbes Professional’s Complete Care solution is supporting care homes across the UK.

In care homes, where hygiene, safety, and reliability are paramount, it’s essential that laundry operations run seamlessly. Forbes Professional’s Complete Care solution is tailored to meet the specific demands of this environment, offering fully supported and cost-effective laundry systems.

With Complete Care, care homes benefit from access to premium commercial laundry appliances without upfront capital expenditure. The all-inclusive rental plan covers installation, routine servicing, maintenance, and repairs; enabling staff to focus on resident care rather than laundry appliance logistics. Unexpected breakdowns can severely disrupt operations, which is why Forbes provides nationwide, award-winning support with a same or next-day engineer response to minimise downtime.

Preventative servicing is central to Forbes’ approach. Their offering includes routine maintenance, full certification, annual gas safety checks, and professional dryer duct cleaning — ensuring systems meet all legal and regulatory standards. Whether supporting existing machines or those rented through Forbes, this proactive strategy improves operational efficiency and reduces risk.

Under Regulation 35 of the Gas Safety Regulations 1998, annual gas inspections are mandatory. Forbes’ Gas Safe-registered engineers conduct these checks to ensure safe, legally compliant environments. Additionally, regular duct cleaning — often overlooked — is vital not only for performance but also for fire prevention. Forbes’ nationwide service mitigates these risks while optimising dryer efficiency.

Whether you need new rental equipment, service and maintenance for existing appliances, or a full purchase, Forbes offers flexible procurement routes to suit different operational models and budgets. Their expert consultants work closely with care providers to design tailored solutions for each setting.

With decades of experience in the care sector, Forbes Professional is a trusted partner to care homes across the UK; delivering dependable, fully supported laundry solutions that prioritise safety, compliance, and peace of mind.

These new appointments are an important step in continuing to ensure that sustainability is woven into the daily fabric of our service depots and offices across the UK.

Meet the Sustainability Champions:

• Luke Edwards – Depot Manager, Exeter
• Elizabeth Hodges – Customer Care Supervisor (Commercial), Redhill, Surrey
• Warren Lovegrove – Deputy Warehouse Manager, Derby
• Stuart Rasburn – Depot Manager, Wigan
• Gordon Strathearn - Manager, Glasgow Depot

Each of these individuals brings operational insight, local knowledge, and a shared commitment to helping Forbes achieve its sustainability goals. They will play a critical role in driving green initiatives, integrating ESG principles into everyday operations, and supporting ongoing review and implementation of our Sustainability Policies.

“This is a powerful step forward in ensuring sustainability remains a living, breathing part of our culture,” says Hannah Forbes. “By working with local leaders across our business, we can continue to drive change from the ground up.”

Driving Daily Change Across Depots

The Champions will actively engage with teams to implement new initiatives, champion responsible practices, and foster a tangible feedback loop - allowing ideas to move freely between the frontline and our ESG leadership. This structure ensures that sustainability isn’t confined to policy - but lived and evolved daily by our stakeholders.

As an example of a nationwide, collaborative initiative, when rental items are transferred between depots, staff now add bags of clothing or second-hand books to the pallets. These donations go directly to our charity partner, Demelza, where they are sorted and distributed to local charity shops. It’s a small operational adjustment with a meaningful social impact - and exactly the kind of grassroots thinking this initiative is designed to inspire.

Embedding ESG into Operations

This isn’t just about individual efforts - it’s about systems. With Champions on the ground, our Sustainability Policies will be reviewed regularly and translated into clear, actionable initiatives for all teams. Whether it's reducing waste, rethinking packaging, or supporting local causes, this initiative ensures that Forbes is continuously improving and staying aligned with its ESG vision.

Together with Hannah’s leadership, our Champions are set to energise sustainability from Glasgow to Exeter - delivering positive change with purpose, passion, and impact.

Abi is a highly adept, City & Guilds qualified service engineer, whose work ensures that both our commercial TVs for hospitality and healthcare, and the TVs used in our consumer rental operation, remain in excellent condition and ready for their next installation. He has a huge amount of technical skill and ensures that all work is carried out with the utmost care and attention.

Abdul joined us in 2003 and has been a vital presence in our service department ever since. Calm and focused, he is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and preparing a wide range of rental products; ensuring they meet our high standards before being returned to stock and re-rented with confidence. Whether he’s servicing a hotel TV or a consumer LED, Abdul brings precision, pride, and professionalism to every task.

“Abdul is a pleasure to see each day,” says Kevin Herring CEO. “He has been with us for 22 years now and is a very skilled engineer who works with great care and consistency. His attention to detail is exceptional, and he takes enormous pride in his work.”

Abi's dedication plays a vital part in supporting the circular economy we champion at Forbes Professional. By keeping our rental stock in active circulation, he helps ensure that customers, across both residential and commercial sectors, can access high-quality products without the environmental and financial cost of buying new.

“It’s great to work for a family business with such a strong reputation,” Abdul says. “There’s real purpose in what we do here, and everyone’s treated with respect. That makes you want to give your best every day.”

Abdul is known throughout the business for his gentle demeanour, politeness, and steady commitment to doing things properly. In a company built on trust, reliability, and care- Abdul is exactly the kind of person you want on your team.

As a corporate partner of Demelza, we are honoured to stand by their side, helping them continue their essential work. Demelza’s mission is close to our hearts, and we’re always looking for ways to support them in any way we can.

Our team members, including Olivia Ide, Karen Salvidge, Jason Rigby, Kevin Herring, John Swanson, and Hannah Forbes, walked through the streets of London, taking every step with purpose. 

We are excited to announce that, thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we’ve exceeded our fundraising target of £700 and have now raised over £1000! 🏆 Your contributions will directly help Demelza continue to provide world-class care to children and families who need it the most.

Every donation, big or small, makes a real impact, and we are deeply grateful for each and every person who has supported our walk.

We also want to thank our team members for their dedication and teamwork. 💙

Still Want to Donate?It’s not too late to support this incredible cause! If you’d like to make a donation, you can still contribute through our JustGiving page:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/forbes-professional-1?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&utm_campaign=015

Your support helps Demelza continue to provide essential care and services to families facing difficult challenges. Together, we can make a real difference.

Thank you once again to everyone who has supported us. We are so proud to have made every step count for Demelza.

Rental at the Core of Circular Thinking

Rental isn’t just a convenient service model – it’s a sustainable business strategy. At Forbes Professional, rental is our core business, and it naturally aligns with the principles of circularity. Every product we supply is supported by multi-phased life cycles, allowing for reuse, refurbishment, repair, and responsible recycling. This approach not only reduces waste but also extends the operational lifespan of appliances, minimising environmental impact while maximising value for our clients.

Regeneration, Not Replacement

Our in-house service infrastructure allows us to maintain and regenerate machines throughout their life, rather than replacing them prematurely. This focus on long-term durability and efficiency is central to our sustainability ethos. Beyond this, we actively help clients make more environmentally conscious choices, providing access to energy- and water-efficient technologies such as: Heat pump tumble dryers – which use up to 50% less energy than traditional dryers. Eco-programmed laundry systems – that deliver commercial performance with a significantly reduced environmental footprint. Connected appliances – enabling intelligent energy use and remote diagnostics.

A Shared Responsibility

We believe in forming partnerships with our clients to embed sustainability into everyday operations. Whether it’s a care home reducing energy bills, or a housing association looking to meet ESG targets, we’re here to offer solutions that are good for the business – and better for the planet. As Overshoot Day approaches, the message is clear: our planet’s resources are finite – but innovation and responsibility are not. At Forbes Professional, we’re proud to be part of the regenerative shift that our future depends on. Let’s move forward – sustainably, together.

This month, we’re shining a light on Harry Gauld, our Laundry Machine Refurbishment Technician, who plays a vital role in giving our products multiple life cycles. 

Harry is based at our head office and works in the wet room, where he reconditions laundry and kitchen appliances that return after rental contracts. Through thorough cleaning, fault-finding, and functional testing, he ensures each appliance is ready for a second life -  supporting our commitment to the circular economy.

Whether it’s a domestic Bosch laundry machine or kitchen appliance or a commercial Miele machine, Harry’s attention to detail helps us maintain the high standards our customers expect -  at every lifecycle stage of the product.

“Harry sets the benchmark when it comes to pride in workmanship,” says Steve Potter, Service Supervisor. “His care in the refurbishment process directly contributes to the reliability and longevity of our equipment.”

This ethos of longevity, quality, and care mirrors the values we uphold where reliability, sustainability, and award-winning support are essential.

Our pre-loved product range is a great example of how we extend the life of our products - offering the same high-quality appliances, with expert support, at a lower price point.

From domestic to commercial, our teams share one mission: to provide reliable, high-performance appliances with sustainable practices at the core.

👏 Thank you, Harry, for all your dedication and for helping drive our commitment to circularity forward.

At Forbes, we help clients ranging from universities to  care homes, hotels, to hospitals and PBSAs to harbours and veterinary clinics meet their sustainability goals through energy-efficient rental solutions. By choosing to rent commercial appliances, you contribute to the circular economy, reducing waste, cutting resource consumption, and lowering carbon footprints.

Sustainable Solutions for Your Organisation

✅ Eco-Friendly Usage Support – We provide user instructions to help your staff or residents maximise energy and water savings.

✅ Energy and Water Efficient Appliances - For instance, our Miele heatpump machines reduce consumption by up to 65% compared to conventional dryers.

✅ Detergent Sheets – Where possible, we recommend switching to eco-friendly detergent sheets to cut down on plastic and chemical waste.

✅ Reduce Standby Power – Many commercial appliances continue to consume energy in standby mode - our team can advise on best practices for minimising usage.

Award-Winning Commitment to Sustainability

We’re proud to have taken home awards for Sustainability and to currently be finalists for the Sustainability Award at the IER Awards 2025. This is much valued recognition of our continued efforts to provide energy-efficient, eco-conscious rental solutions.

Being sustainable in your internal processes is one step in the right direction, but it is important to consider the impact of your entire supply chain, and each product’s journey. We only align with partners that share our commitment to ESG, and we are incredibly proud to be partnered with Miele, who are known for their impressive sustainability commitments.  

As a business that mostly specialises in rental, regeneration is at the very core of our operations, and we are proud to support the circular economy that we all need to urgently transition towards. 

🌱 This Earth Day, let’s work together to build a more sustainable future. Speak to our team to see how we can help your  organisation meet its targets.

Optimising Performance -  Simple Steps for Users

The day-to-day upkeep of laundry appliances plays a crucial role in efficiency. That’s why we provide clear digital and poster signage to remind users of key steps, such as:

✅ Emptying lint filters after every cycle -  This ensures dryers run efficiently, reducing drying times and energy consumption.

✅ Loading machines correctly - Overloading can strain the motor, while underloading wastes energy.

✅ Checking detergent use - Using too much detergent can cause residue build- up, affecting wash quality and machine efficiency.

By following these simple habits, users can help optimise cycle times, reduce costs, and prolong appliance life.

Deep Cleaning & Preventative Maintenance

Whilst daily care is essential, commercial laundry equipment also requires periodic deep cleaning and professional servicing to maintain peak performance. At Forbes Professional, we offer:

🔹 User Training for Maintenance Staff -We provide on-site guidance for cleaning plinth filters, ensuring staff understand how to maintain the equipment properly.

🔹 Digital & Poster Signage - Our signage helps reinforce best practices for users, ensuring they follow maintenance steps that improve efficiency and reduce running costs.

🔹 Scheduled Maintenance Callouts - Our expert technicians conduct preventative maintenance checks, allowing for proactive action before issues arise.

🔹 Ducting Cleaning Services - We can clean dryer ducting up to 3 metres, helping to prevent blockages that can reduce airflow and efficiency.

A preventative approach to maintenance not only extends the life of appliances but also reduces unexpected downtime - ensuring that our clients can keep up with demand without disruption.

Why Staff Training and User Guidance Matter

Commercial laundry efficiency relies not just on high-quality equipment but also on proper user operation and maintenance. That’s why we prioritise staff training, digital and poster signage, and ongoing support, ensuring:

✔️ Users and maintenance teams understand best practices for daily care.

✔️ Facilities teams can identify early warning signs of issues.

✔️ Maintenance schedules are followed consistently to prevent breakdowns.

With Forbes, organisations benefit from reliable, expert-backed maintenance and training, helping to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve sustainability.

Spring cleaning isn’t just about freshening up your space - it’s about enhancing performance and efficiency. By maintaining commercial laundry appliances properly, businesses can ensure optimal functionality, lower energy consumption, and longer machine life.

Forbes Professional is here to support you with expert guidance, scheduled maintenance checks, and professional servicing. Get in touch today to learn how we can help optimise your laundry operations. 

The IER Awards—now in their 33rd year—celebrate innovation, outstanding products, and pioneering businesses within the electrical retail sector. The winners will be announced on 4th July 2025 at the Park Plaza London Riverbank.

“As we approach our centenary anniversary, it’s incredibly rewarding to see recognition across so many aspects of our business—from customer service and digital innovation to marketing and sustainability. This reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering the best experience for our customers.”
-  Hannah Forbes, Director of Marketing & Brand Strategy

Over the years, we’ve proudly taken home many prestigious industry awards, and this year’s nominations highlight the strength of our team, our vision, and our dedication to delivering exceptional customer service. We can’t wait to celebrate with our industry peers in July!

Having worked across multiple departments within Forbes, Hannah has developed a deep understanding of our group operations, customer journey, and commercial strategy. Her expertise  - gained both within the company and from other corporate environments  - has been instrumental in high-level decision-making, ensuring our marketing efforts align with broader business objectives.

Our CEO, Kevin Herring, commented:
"Having worked closely with Hannah for many years, I can confidently say this promotion is well deserved. Her commercial and strategic insight, combined with her creativity, have been instrumental in driving our growth and shaping the Forbes brand. She has consistently ensured that our marketing efforts align with our broader business goals, and her ability to innovate while staying true to our core values has been exceptional. I have every confidence that, in her new role, Hannah will continue to elevate our marketing strategy and strengthen our position in the market. I’m excited to see the impact of her leadership over the coming years."

Hannah has played a pivotal role in tender strategy and policy development, helping to secure key contracts through compliance oversight, risk assessment, and corporate social value integration. She has worked hard to position us as industry thought leaders and to ensure that, as we approach our centenary, Forbes remains a trusted and competitive provider. She has also entered us for many high-profile awards, where we have received great accolades and much-valued industry recognition.

Her leadership in sustainability and ESG initiatives has driven meaningful progress. Hannah has been instrumental in developing ESG policies, overseeing reporting, and embedding sustainability into our brand messaging.

Reflecting on her promotion, Hannah shared:
"Forbes has been a huge part of my life, and I am incredibly proud of the legacy my grandfather started nearly a century ago. My father and uncle have grown the business from a small local operation to a nationwide company, and I’m excited to continue that journey. I look forward to working with our CEO, Kevin Herring, and our wider team to drive our success forward while ensuring we remain true to our core values."

Hannah’s promotion will further refine our marketing structure, process efficiency, and strategic alignment, reinforcing her role as a key force in Forbes’ continued growth. We look forward to seeing her lead with creativity, innovation, and commercial acumen in this next chapter.

In sectors such as education, PBSAs, hospitality and healthcare , choosing energy-efficient, long-lasting appliances makes a significant environmental impact. Through rental solutions, businesses can:

✔ Minimise waste – Our products are refurbished, re-used, and responsibly recycled at the end of their lifecycle.
✔ Reduce carbon footprints – Fewer new products mean lower emissions from manufacturing and logistics.
✔ Align with ESG goals – We partner with sustainable suppliers for energy-efficient commercial appliances that consume minimal energy and water.

Responsible Waste Management – We Handle It for You

With Forbes Professional, businesses can be assured of responsible waste handling:

✔ Packaging removal & recycling – All packaging is collected at delivery and recycled appropriately.
✔ End-of-contract product removal – Old commercial laundry and kitchen appliances are collected, with both appliances and parts repurposed or recycled where possible.
✔ WEEE-compliant disposal – As licensed waste carriers, we ensure all disposals adhere to regulations, reducing landfill waste.

A Responsible Supply Chain

Sustainable procurement is key to a responsible business strategy. We collaborate with suppliers that share our commitment to:

✔ Energy-efficient and low-water-consumption appliances
✔ Recyclable and refurbished components
✔ Ethical and environmentally responsible practices

Make a Smarter Business Choice

By choosing Forbes Professional, businesses ensure their supply chain is aligned with their sustainability goals while maintaining operational efficiency.

At Forbes Professional, sustainability is integral to our operations. With yesterday being Global Recycling Day, we reaffirm our commitment to the circular economy - helping businesses reduce waste, extend product life cycles, and achieve their ESG targets through responsible procurement and waste management. Make a choice that benefits your operations, your balance sheets and the planet.

It is about time that we shone a spotlight on our longest-serving team member, John Swanson, who has been a cornerstone of Forbes for an incredible 56.5 years. This week, John also celebrated his birthday, making it the perfect time to honour his journey with us.

A Legacy That Began in 1968

John joined Forbes in September 1968 as an apprentice in our Service Department. At the time, Frederick Donald Forbes was still at the helm, and John trained under his guidance, with Service Manager Gordon Roberts overseeing his development. Back then, Forbes was a small operation, serving only the consumer market, where everyone worked closely together across all aspects of the business.

After five years, John successfully completed his apprenticeship. Thinking his time at Forbes had come to an end, he began looking for his next role and was soon offered a position at a new start-up - Comet. When he informed Malcolm Forbes of his decision, Malcolm didn’t hesitate to ask about the offer and made sure Forbes provided a better one to retain John. John accepted, but neither of them could have anticipated that he would still be here more than five decades later, delivering exceptional service with his trademark smile—and forming a lifelong friendship with Malcolm in the process.

Watching Forbes Grow

John spent many years as a service engineer, as our business grew into the commercial market to formed the diverse client base that we have today. He has witnessed first-hand the expansion of Forbes from a local twelve-mile service radius around Purley, Surrey, to the national operation it is today. He recalls the challenges of the 1970s coal mine strikes and the resulting power cuts, which forced the business to find innovative ways to continue servicing customers. With a few service depots available, Forbes was able to adapt by moving operations between sites, ensuring that service remained uninterrupted.

During this time, televisions became an essential source of entertainment, as cinemas and restaurants were closed. John recounts how the demand for TVs surged exponentially, and Forbes had to rapidly scale up procurement, repairs, and refurbishments to meet our customer needs. John played a crucial role in ensuring customers received their TVs as quickly as possible. 

Adapting to Change

In 1998, John transitioned from the Service Department to manage the Technical Support Line, helping Forbes meet the increasing demand for remote assistance. This move greatly improved efficiency, reducing unnecessary callouts and streamlining service operations. John also took on responsibility for managing the fleet of company vehicles, a role that became increasingly important as Forbes expanded its reach across the UK.

In 2000, Forbes moved its head office to Merstham, Surrey, centralising sales, account management, and servicing operations. Just a few years later, in 2003, John became our Stock and Transport Manager, forming strong relationships throughout the supply chain. He even led the implementation of vehicle tracking technology through a course with MiX Telematics, fitting Forbes’ fleet with GPS tracking devices; an innovative move at the time that optimised route efficiency and reduced our environmental footprint.

Going Above and Beyond

John is known for his unwavering dedication to customer service. One of his favourite stories, which perfectly captures his commitment, is from a Christmas Eve over 20 years ago. A customer in Poole called just before office closing time, struggling with a loss of signal. With no engineers available to dispatch before the holidays, John stayed late, spending an hour on the phone, sitting next to the office Christmas tree, expertly guiding the customer through re-fitting the aerial plug and re-tuning their TV. Thanks to his (renowned) patience and expertise, the family had a working television for Christmas.

Stories like this are what make John such a valued and cherished part of Forbes. His approach to service remains rooted in the same core values that Frederick Donald Forbes instilled in the company all those years ago and he will always go the extra mile.

Beyond his professional achievements, John has also built a wonderful life outside of work. He married the love of his life 50 years ago, and together they welcomed their sons, Kevin (born in 1982) and Duncan (born in 1984).

Over the past few years, John has begun semi-retirement, with Nick Pardoe now leading the Stock and Transport team. However, John remains a vital part of the business, always happy to lend a hand wherever needed, from facilities logistics to delivering vans across the country.

Reflecting on his time (so far) at Forbes, John says:

“Working for a family business like Forbes has been a wonderful journey. It has been amazing to watch the business evolve over the years from a local service company to a dual-purpose operation serving both consumer and commercial markets. Who would have thought I’d still be here after taking that apprenticeship all those years ago? However, I am very glad I am, and I wear my wrist watch from my 40^th work anniversary with pride every day!”

John Swanson is not just an employee, he is family to many of us. His passion, loyalty, and incredible work ethic have truly shaped the very fabric of Forbes, and we are beyond grateful for everything he has contributed over the last 56.5 years.

Stuart Forbes says, ‘Thank you, John, for your dedication, your kindness, and your unwavering commitment to excellence. It remains a true pleasure to have you on board as we approach out centenary. Forbes truly wouldn’t be the same without you.’

A Legacy of Commitment

With 37 members of our team having been with us for over 30 years, Forbes Professional is built on a foundation of loyalty, knowledge, and trust. We take pride in delivering a local-based response on a national scale, ensuring that every client receives expert service whenever they need it.

Unrivalled Expertise & Service

Our multi-award-winning, Platinum-rated service sets us apart in the industry. With exceptional first-time fix rates, our engineers provide both reactive and preventative maintenance, giving our clients total peace of mind. Unlike many service providers, we never use contractors, allowing us to deliver a consistent and reliable service with engineers who truly understand our equipment and our customers’ needs.

We have City & Guilds qualified and  GAS safe registered engineers, and all of installation and service teams receive continuous in-house and manufacturer training to stay at the forefront of industry advancements. Whether handling an installation, site survey, or routine service call, they approach every job with professionalism and expertise.

Comprehensive, End-to-End Solutions

At Forbes Professional, we don’t just install equipment- we provide a fully inclusive service, from delivery and installation to commissioning and setup. Our clients benefit from comprehensive site surveys, ensuring they receive tailored solutions that optimize efficiency and performance.

Real Stories from Our Clients

Our customers repeatedly highlight the exceptional service they receive from our engineers:

⭐ “Forbes have been amazing with same-day service. Their engineers offer honest advice, excellent service, and great ongoing help.” –  Esteemed Boarding School

⭐ “The professionalism of the install team has been second to none.” – Innovative Launderette

⭐ “Forbes provided an excellent level of service at St Mark’s Residences, delivering a carefully planned installation in a short time frame.” – Red Brick University

⭐ “We have always found Forbes to be extremely reliable, conscientious, and dedicated to ensuring that they supply the right equipment for the job.” – Boutique Hotel Chain

A Heartfelt Thank You

To all our employees—from our engineers to our customer support teams—thank you for your dedication, professionalism, and hard work. Your commitment ensures that Forbes Professional continues to set the standard for service excellence.

Here’s to many more years of success together!

A Holistic Approach to ESG

Established in 1926, Forbes remains a family business today and our ESG strategy is at the core of how we do business. We maintain the highest ethical standards, champion equity, diversity, and inclusion, and promote transparency in governance. Our leadership team not only meets regulatory expectations but also aims to set new benchmarks in sustainable practices.

Supporting the Circular Economy

As a company that specialises in rental, regeneration at the very core of what we do, and our products and spare parts have multi-phase life-cycles. Forbes is proud to support a circular economy, promote responsible consumption, and ensure that our products and services align with our environmental and social values.

Corporate Partnerships with Purpose

We believe collaboration is essential to creating meaningful change. Forbes partners with like-minded organisations that share our vision for sustainability. Whether working with not for profits to uplift communities, support charities or local enterprises, or collaborating with innovators to enhance our environmental impact, our partnerships are purpose-driven and designed to amplify our positive influence.

Building a Responsible and Transparent Supply Chain

Our supply chain reflects our dedication to sustainability. We work with suppliers who meet strict ESG criteria, prioritising ethical sourcing and sustainable practices.  We are particularly proud to be National Distribution Partner to Miele, who are renowned for their sustainability progress.

Embracing Renewable Energy

Forbes is committed to reducing its carbon footprint through ensuring that we use renewable energy  at our offices. This is a simple move that helps to contribute to a broader transition toward a sustainable energy future while reducing our operational impact on the environment.

Transitioning to Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

By adopting electric and hybrid vehicles within our fleet, Forbes not only reduces emissions but also sets an example of green innovation. This shift aligns with our goal of achieving net-zero emissions and promoting cleaner, more efficient operations.

Prioritising Employee Wellness and ED&I

Our people are the foundation of our success. At Forbes, we invest in wellness programs that support our employees' physical, mental, and financial health. Our strong ED&I framework ensures every team member feels valued and empowered. By fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity, we harness diverse perspectives that drive innovation and business growth.

Responsible Waste Management

Forbes implements programs that minimise waste, optimise resource efficiency, and promote reuse and recycling. By adhering to Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment directives, and removing any waste after installations, we ensure responsible waste management across our operations, reducing our environmental footprint.

Upholding the Triple Bottom Line- People, Planet, and Profit

At Forbes, we believe that a truly successful business balances the needs of people, planet, and profit. We invest in our employees through our initiatives and by creating a safe, inclusive workplace- as reflected in our incredibly low staff turnover. Our planet benefits from our sustainability strategies and carefully selected partnerships. And our profits reflect the trust and loyalty we build by prioritising ethical and sustainable business practices.

Committed to Ethical and Sustainable Business

By embedding ethical and sustainable principles into every aspect of our operations, we help our clients to meet their own ESG targets whilst enhancing our corporate resilience and contributing to a better, more sustainable world.

Forbes Professional is a trusted name in commercial equipment leasing, and we are proud to offer a comprehensive solution for hotels and serviced apartments across the UK. Whether clients rely on us for high-performance commercial appliances or hotel TV solutions, our award-winning equipment leasing and service delivery can help streamline operations and elevate guest satisfaction.

Synergy of Laundry and In-Room Technology

A guest’s impression of a hotel hinges on the smallest details. From crisp, clean linens to an exceptional in-room entertainment experience, every touchpoint matters. Forbes makes it easy for hotels to deliver excellence in both areas by offering a dual focus: high-quality commercial appliances with premium in-room TV entertainment.

For hotels that currently lease commercial  appliances from Forbes, expanding into TV leasing allows for a one-stop solution for operational needs. Our modern, fully connected TVs offer secure features like streaming apps, screen mirroring, and information channels, allowing you to enhance your guest offering. Likewise, hoteliers leasing TVs from us can optimise their operations by adding our robust, energy-efficient commercial dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, and ironers to their leasing packages.

Award-Winning Service for Peace of Mind

We understand the critical nature of the hospitality industry, where every minute of downtime can disrupt operations or negatively impact guest satisfaction. That’s why our award-winning service team is committed to providing unrivalled support.

With a dedicated account manager and a highly trained network of engineers across the UK, we offer fast response times and preventative maintenance as part of our leasing agreements. Whether it’s repairing a washer or troubleshooting an in-room TV issue, our expert team is on hand to ensure your equipment runs smoothly.

Enhancing Guest Experiences Through Smart TV Technology

In-room technology is now a cornerstone of guest satisfaction. Forbes’ hotel TVs combine sleek, modern designs with advanced features, offering an intuitive interface and compatibility with leading entertainment platforms.

One of the standout features of our TVs is the integrated information channel. This customisable tool allows hotels to communicate directly with guests, promoting on-site services such as spa treatments, restaurant menus, and special offers. By leveraging this technology, hotels can increase revenue whilst providing a personalised and engaging guest experience.

Efficiency Meets Sustainability

Forbes Professional is committed to helping hospitality businesses operate more efficiently and sustainably. Our commercial laundry equipment is designed to handle the demands of high-volume operations whilst minimising water and energy consumption. By incorporating the latest technology, our machines not only ensure spotless results but also support sustainability goals.

Similarly, our energy-efficient TVs reduce power consumption without compromising performance; creating an exceptional guest experience while cutting down on operational costs.

The Benefits of a Consolidated Partnership

Managing multiple suppliers can be time-consuming and costly. By consolidating your appliance and TV equipment needs with Forbes Professional, you gain access to a streamlined leasing solution with transparent pricing, flexible terms, and expert support.

Our end-to-end service includes installation, training, and on-going maintenance, ensuring you have everything you need to focus on what you do best: delivering exceptional hospitality.

Partner with Forbes Professional

Forbes can support your business with tailored leasing solutions. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your laundry equipment, enhance in-room entertainment, or both, we provide the reliability, innovation, and service excellence you can trust.

Contact our team today to explore how our integrated leasing services can transform your hospitality operations. Together, we’ll help you deliver an unmatched guest experience while optimising efficiency and sustainability.

Why Choose Rental? Geraldine’s Insight

With her years of experience, Geraldine is a passionate advocate for the many benefits of leasing appliances and AV equipment through Forbes. She regularly highlights how renting offers both our consumer customers and commercial clients a practical and sustainable alternative to purchasing.  

“Why invest in a depreciating asset when you can rent and spread the cost over time?” Geraldine asks. “Renting enables clients to avoid costly upfront payments and it’s all-inclusive; installation, commissioning and both preventative and reactive service support.’

As a company, Forbes is proud to support the circular economy, refurbishing and re-leasing products to extend their lifecycle and reduce waste. It’s an approach that aligns with our long-standing commitment to sustainability.  

Celebrating 100 Years of Forbes Rentals

As we approach our 100th year in business, we’re reminded of how much of our success has been shaped by the dedication of employees like Geraldine. Her contributions over the past 30 years have been invaluable, and her family’s involvement in the company speaks to the close-knit culture we’ve fostered.


Thank You, Geraldine!

We’re incredibly grateful for Geraldine’s three decades of dedication, positivity, and hard work.

If you are considering upgrading your commercial appliances, or need a new solution for hospitality or healthcare TV, remember Geraldine’s advice: renting enables a comprehensive support and removes the hassle. With no large upfront costs, inclusive maintenance, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s the smarter choice for both budgets and the planet.  We work with a diverse range of sectors across the UK; from hotels and serviced apartments to universities and PBSAs, to care homes and hospitals, vets and farms, schools and colleges. Whatever your laundry, ware-washing or TV requirement, we can find a solution to suit your specific requirements.

There are various way to ensure the right levels of hygiene control; you should employ thermal and/ or chemical disinfection. Ozone is one of the disinfection options that can be successful, but it is essential to adhere to HSE recommendations, take appropriate safety precautions, and use control measures as outlined by COSHH as use of this powerful oxidant does carry potential health risks.  Forbes Professional offers care homes alternatives to Ozone systems, that still meet the most exacting hygiene requirements. Their Miele commercial laundry machines enable sluice, thermal and chemical disinfection, to meet all the industry requirements of WRAS and CQC. When paired with Forbes’ advanced chemical detergents, which kill pathogens even at low temperatures, these commercial machines deliver a complete laundry solution for optimal infection control.

Forbes understands that care homes require tailored solutions. Their industry specialists work closely with operators to recommend the right commercial machines to meet their specific needs. Beyond installation, they offer award-winning service support to ensure ongoing compliance and operational efficiency.

For any care home, laundry is a key part of infection control. It is imperative that appropriate commercial laundry equipment is used within a care setting, and that there is a reliable partnership in place for service and maintenance. By choosing Miele’s technology and Forbes Professional’s expert support, care homes can safely and effectively meet stringent hygiene standards.

Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation

Miele Little Giant commercial washing machines and heat pump dryers are specifically designed to minimise energy and water consumption. The dryers consume up to 65% less energy than traditional commercial dryers, thanks to advanced heat pump technology, which recycles warm air during drying. Miele commercial washing machines also feature load sensors that adjust water and energy usage based on the size of the load, further reducing waste.

Built for Longevity and Performance

Miele’s machines are tested through 30,000 cycles to ensure they are durable enough for heavy usage in a student environment. This longevity means less interruption to facilities and fewer replacements, reducing waste over time. In our experience, for  most student laundry facilities, an 8kg drum capacity is ideal, gently protecting garments and accommodating medium loads efficiently without overconsumption of resources.

User-Friendly and Carbon Conscious

Heat pump dryers, like the Miele PDR 508, are designed with both sustainability and user convenience in mind. These machines save substantial energy and operate without the need for extensive ventilation infrastructure. Their energy efficiency rating is the highest achievable for a commercial dryer, ensuring that the PBSA or university can significantly reduce their carbon emissions.

A Shared Vision for the Future

By integrating energy-efficient, ethical, and high-performance laundry solutions, Forbes continues to help clients to set a benchmark in sustainable operations.

For students, the choice of Miele machines represents a tangible way to participate in their university’s sustainability journey. Though the cycles may take a few extra minutes, but the environmental impact is far-reaching.

Sustainability is at the heart of our operations. By choosing energy-efficient laundry, ware washing, and healthcare or hospitality TVs, you can reduce your environmental impact while making astute financial decisions. Forbes Professional champions the circular economy, helping clients avoid the upfront costs of equipment ownership through tailored procurement models that free up capital for other priorities.

Additionally, our team takes a consultative approach, offering expertise on the whole life cost of products, including innovative solutions like heat pumps. From CAD designs to guiding you through the planning stages of new build launderettes or on-premises laundries, we ensure that every decision aligns with your business goals and sustainability objectives.

Partnering with Forbes means you are backed by multi-award-winning service support. This year, all areas of our business have been recognised, from customer service to sustainability, marketing, and our website. We are proud to be your reliable service partner, delivering long-term value and peace of mind.

This year we established our Corporate Partnership with Demelza Charity, and are proud to now support their hospice’s vital work through fundraising endeavours as well as staff volunteer days.

2024 also marked the unveiling of our flagship showroom, the nearest Miele Professional showroom to London and the surrounding areas. We’ve also enjoyed meeting clients and industry peers at exhibitions and awards ceremonies, where we’ve celebrated our shared commitment to innovation and excellence.

As you plan for the year ahead, remember that the right procurement decisions can benefit your business, your finances, and the planet. Whether you’re upgrading your laundry or ware washing equipment or investing in cutting-edge healthcare or hospitality AV technology, Forbes Professional is here to guide you every step of the way.

As Stuart Forbes reflects, “Thank you to our clients and partners for your ongoing support in our family business’s 99th year of operation. As we near our centenary, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering the highest quality of both product and service. We would like to wish you all the very best for 2025.”

Here are the key considerations for designing and optimising your commercial laundry area:

 1. Prioritise Energy Efficiency for Long-Term Savings

Energy-efficient appliances are a must for cutting down operational costs whilst supporting sustainability goals. For instance, heat pump dryers, like those from Miele, can reduce energy consumption by up to 75% compared to conventional models. These savings add up quickly in high-usage environments like hospitals or student accommodations, offering both financial and environmental benefits. It is really important to consider the whole life cost, especially with energy prices at unprecedented highs.

2. Plan for Proper Laundry Segregation

In care homes, veterinary practices and hospitals, proper laundry segregation is particularly essential to maintain hygiene and comply with infection control protocols. Invest in labelled containers, dedicated sorting areas, and staff training to ensure soiled and clean linens are handled separately. This minimises cross-contamination risks and keeps your operation compliant with health regulations.

3. Choose the Right Size and Type of Equipment

The demands of your organisation should guide the selection of washers and dryers. Hospitals and hotels may require industrial-sized machines to handle high volumes, while retirement communities or smaller housing facilities might prioritise user-friendly, compact equipment accessible to individuals with mobility challenges. A reliable laundry partner should be able to help you calculate the right machines for your requirements.

 4. Optimise Location and Layout

The location of your laundry room can significantly impact its efficiency.  This is particularly important for managed laundry facilities or where footfall needs to be optimised. It is important to ensure DDA compliance when specifying the laundry machine configuration. Centralised laundry facilities often work best, but larger properties might benefit from multiple strategically placed laundry rooms to reduce transit time.  If you are established a serviced launderette, inside the space you will need to ensure aisles and common areas are spacious enough to accommodate folding activities and to ensure accessibility.

5. Plan Ahead when Installing Services

For new build laundry rooms, ensure that you are installing the plumbing, ducting and electrical supply in the right locations. A responsible supplier will be able to help you with CAD design provision and consultative advice; guiding you through the planning stages as well as the installation and ongoing service support. Simple mistakes at the design stages can be costly and time consuming.

6. Ensure Adequate Ventilation

Laundry rooms can quickly become hot and stuffy due to the constant operation of machines. Proper ventilation is critical not just for comfort but also for safety. Where possible, re-routing hot air from dryers to heat other areas of the property can enhance energy efficiency. However, ensure your system is equipped to handle peak summer temperatures without compromising air quality.

 7. Embrace Smart Technology for Monitoring and Maintenance

Modern laundry equipment often includes smart technology that tracks water, energy, and detergent usage, or can adjust to suit the load requirements. These insights allow you to optimise consumption, reduce waste, and lower costs. Additionally, regular servicing through tailored maintenance plans can extend the life of your equipment, reduce downtime, and minimise costly breakdowns. It is worth investigating whether your machines can send automatic push notifications to enable pre-emptive maintenance action or to expedite engineer response times.

 8. Focus on Sustainability and Compliance

Sustainability targets are no longer optional; especially for organisations in education, healthcare, and housing sectors. Energy-efficient washers, water-saving systems, and responsible waste management are key to reducing your carbon footprint and staying compliant with environmental standards. For universities and PBSAs, these measures can also enhance appeal to eco-conscious students and tenants.

 9. Think Beyond Procurement Costs

A common pitfall is focusing too heavily on upfront procurement costs while neglecting the running costs. Factors like energy consumption, maintenance expenses, and replacement cycles often outweigh initial savings. Durable, high-performance appliances might require a higher initial investment, but they deliver significant cost savings over their lifespan.

10. Choose the Right Laundry Payment Solution

There are many payment options available, but it is critical that you enable a simple one-step contactless payment system and/or a user-friendly app-based solution.  Ensure that your laundry equipment provider considers the needs of the users and offers a simple and efficient process for payments and refunds.

Contact Forbes today to see how we can help you transform your commercial laundry operation.  We can guide you through all of the considerations above, ensuring that your laundry function is seamless, accessible and compliant. Investing in efficient solutions today will pay dividends in efficiency and sustainability tomorrow.

This year, our Christmas Jumper Day celebrations are dedicated to Demelza, our chosen charity. Demelza provides essential care and support for children with serious or terminal conditions and their families. By raising awareness and funds, we’re proud to help them continue their incredible work during a time of year that can be especially challenging for the families they serve.

Our Commitment to ESG and Giving Back

At Forbes, community impact is at the heart of our Environmental, Social, and Governance initiatives. Earlier this month, on International Volunteer Day, a team of our employees visited Demelza’s warehouse. They rolled up their sleeves to sort and organise donations that will soon be sold in Demelza’s charity shops. These contributions directly support the charity’s mission and its ability to provide vital services.

Our partnership with Demelza extends beyond fundraising. As one of their valued clients for commercial laundry equipment, we’re proud to support their operations in any small way that we can.

Join Us in Supporting Demelza

As we celebrate this holiday season, we’re reminded of the importance of giving back. Demelza holds a special place in our hearts, and we’re honoured to continue supporting their incredible work.

Learn more about Demelza and how you can help

Forbes Professional understands the pressures facing care homes today. Providing laundry and ware-washing appliances to care homes across the UK, we strive to be a trusted partner in helping care homes to navigate the challenges of delivering essential services. Our flexible, all-inclusive contracts enable clients to access highly energy and water efficient equipment without the burden of costly upfront payments. Our simple monthly payment structure makes it easier to budget and forecast long-term, offering peace of mind in an era of rising unpredictability.

In addition to our competitive pricing model, our award-winning service support is included at no extra cost for the life of the contract. This means no unexpected repair bills or downtime, ensuring that laundry operations run smoothly so that care operators can focus on delivering the best care to residents. With installations included as part of our service, we provide a comprehensive, hassle-free solution that saves both time and money.

As care homes plan for the future, it is essential to scrutinise contracts and operational costs, especially for high-use areas such as laundry facilities. If your current laundry contract is due to end in 2025, now is the time to consider how Forbes can help you reduce costs whilst maximising efficiency. We offer complimentary site surveys to identify your unique needs and discuss tailored solutions that support your financial and operational goals.

By aligning with reliable service partners, care homes can also take a proactive step towards managing budgets and ensuring the seamless operation of an essential service.

Miele’s heat pump dryers stand out as an ideal solution, reducing energy consumption by up to 60% compared to traditional vented dryers. The Ecoplus technology in Miele’s dryers ensures that both energy consumption and drying times remain consistently low. Additionally, the interaction between Miele’s filter system and the maintenance-free heat exchanger prevents fluff from clogging the heat exchanger, maintaining exceptional drying efficiency.

Safety concerns have led care homes to move away from gas appliances, avoiding costly annual gas checks and enforced building adaptations for regulatory compliance. Miele’s heat pump commercial dryers are not only safe but also eliminate the need for complicated and expensive exhaust ducting and its incumbent periodic cleaning. This provides greater flexibility in machine positioning, making them even more convenient for care homes with varying spatial configurations.

Forbes Professional offers a wide range of Miele heat pump dryers, catering to different needs with models ranging from 7kg to 22kg capacities, including the slimline PDR 511 11kg. Miele’s machines are renowned for their superior functionality and reliability and help maintain the requisite hygiene standards of a healthcare environment. Forbes would advise any care operator that opting for Miele’s heat pump dryers, can significantly cut energy costs and optimise both energy and operational efficiency.

Our highly experienced account managers provide a consultative service with a complimentary site survey to help specify the right machine for each requirement. Whether clients choose to rent or purchase laundry appliances, Forbes Professional provides comprehensive services that include installation, commissioning, user training, and award-winning repair and maintenance support.

At the heart of our operations is a deep commitment to sustainability, an essential value that informs every decision we make. Consequently, being finalists in this category means a huge amount to us all. Our entire business approach centres on supporting the circular economy—a model that prioritises resource efficiency, increasing product longevity through multiple life cycles and incorporating responsible disposal practices. We are very selective about the manufacturers we partner with, ensuring they share our ESG focuses and produce high-efficiency appliances that minimise environmental impact. Our attention to sustainable practices benefits both our individual customers and our commercial clients, giving them access to appliances that meet high standards in energy efficiency, performance, and longevity.

Winning the Highly Commended Award for our consumer website yesterday was an especially meaningful achievement for us, marking our second website award in recent months following our recent Best Website Award at the IER Awards. Our website is a critical part of our business, serving as an informative and user-friendly resource. Our dedicated in-house content team has worked tirelessly to develop a site that is intuitive, accessible, and valuable for all users. With engaging blogs, video demonstrations, and clear navigation paths, our goal is to provide a seamless experience that helps consumers make informed decisions. From those seeking quick tips on laundry care to those seeking specific product information on our home appliances, we strive to create an online space where all visitors can find relevant, up-to-date content that’s easy to access and understand.

As a family business with nearly a century of history, we’re proud to blend traditional values with a forward-looking approach. Our ongoing commitment to high standards in sustainability and digital innovation reflects our passion for serving our community, staying connected with our heritage whilst looking toward the future with intention and care. These accolades are not just awards; they are milestones on our journey to continual improvement and a reminder of the impact we can make.

Receiving industry awards is a tremendous honour and a reflection of the hard work of our teams. We’re excited to carry this momentum forward as we continue to push boundaries in sustainable practices and digital innovation, always with our customers and the environment at the forefront of what we do. Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way.

Best Sustainable Independent Electrical Retailer

With regeneration at the core of our operations, we are proud to support the circular economy and to offer both customers and commercial clients and a more sustainable alternative to outright purchase. From our water and energy efficient products to our eco-conscious business initiatives, we are dedicated to minimising the environmental impact of both our business and our customers’ homes. Our inclusion in this category is a testament to our ongoing efforts to operate responsibly, ensuring that ESG is embedded into every aspect of our operations.

Best Independent Electrical Retailer Website- Forbes Rentals

At Forbes, we always strive to deliver an exceptional online experience for our customers from within both the both the commercial and consumer markets. As with our Forbes Professional website, our consumer website has been designed  to be user-friendly,  accessible and informative.

Whether customers are looking to rent the latest appliances, explore our extensive range of TVs, access our expert support or delve into our engaging blog, our website aims to offer a seamless experience. Being recognised in this category highlights our commitment to making high-quality products and services easily accessible through an intuitive and responsive platform.We are incredibly proud to be nominated for both of these awards, and grateful for such high-profile recognition from the electrical retail industry. Being shortlisted in these categories reflects our unwavering dedication to both customer satisfaction and sustainable business practices.

As we look forward to the ERT Awards ceremony on October 24^th, we are hugely appreciative of our customers and partners for their continued support, as well as our dedicated team whose hard work has made these nominations possible.

Tailored Equipment Solutions- Rent or Buy

Our flexible rental options allow clients to benefit from premium commercial laundry and dishwashing machines without the burden of large upfront costs. Rental agreements include both reactive and preventive maintenance, meaning there are no unexpected repair or replacement bills to worry about. With Forbes’ award-winning support, clients have the peace of mind that appliance breakdowns will be swiftly addressed, minimising operational disruptions.

For those preferring to purchase machines outright, we offer the same trusted service support, ensuring long-term efficiency and performance.

Comprehensive Maintenance for In-Situ Machines

Forbes Professional doesn’t just stop at supplying appliances. We also provide service and maintenance contracts for in-situ machines. This is an ideal solution for clients that are looking to minimise downtime without having to replace their existing equipment. With a Forbes service contract, clients gain access to our nationwide team of expert in-house engineers wh can deliver a same- or next-day response to breakdowns.

Ensuring Compliance and Safety

In all industries compliance with safety regulations is essential. Our service contracts can include preventive measures like annual gas safety checks and duct cleaning, which help clients meet health and safety requirements, including Regulation 35 of the Gas Safety Regulations 1998. These preventive services not only ensure compliance but also extend the lifespan of appliances, reducing both operational costs and environmental impact.

Nationwide Expertise and Support

We are proud to service leading brands such as Miele, IPSO, Heubsch, Primus, Girbau, and Speedqueen. Our nationwide network of engineers is always on hand to provide expert advice, whether it’s a routine maintenance check or an emergency repair. By working with Forbes, clients can be confident that their laundry and dishwashing equipment will remain fully operational and compliant with industry standards.

Flexible Service Solutions for Every Need

Whether you’re looking to rent, purchase, or simply need maintenance for existing equipment, Forbes Professional offers flexible and comprehensive service solutions for appliances.  With our proactive approach to maintenance and our award-winning support, we ensure that your machines are always operating efficiently and in full compliance with safety regulations.

Transforming a Vision into Reality with Forbes Professional

This summer, Forbes Professional was approached by Dan Newton, an entrepreneur with a vision to create a state-of-the-art launderette in Shepton Mallet. Dan envisioned a cutting-edge facility that not only provided premium laundry services but also delivered a seamless, high-tech experience for customers. To bring this vision to life, he partnered with Forbes Professional.

Tim Ledger, National Account Manager at Forbes, worked closely with Dan to ensure all his specific requirements were met. Tim commented: "It was a pleasure to help conceptualise Dan’s launderette. By combining our industry expertise with his entrepreneurial vision, we were able to create a highly user-friendly and efficient laundry facility for Shepton Mallet."

A thorough site survey was conducted by Tim, who then produced detailed, to-scale layout drawings in 3D renderings. Forbes also provided expert guidance on the plumbing and electrical requirements, installing all necessary services, including ducting, to ensure the facility was commissioned for safe and optimal use.

A key aspect of the project was the integration of an innovative contactless payment system. Forbes installed the Airwallet contactless payment solution, simplifying transactions with a one-step process to ensure a smooth and efficient customer experience. Additionally, an app-based system was incorporated, featuring tools like Happy Hour promotions and Loyalty discounts. These features allow for dynamic pricing strategies that can be scheduled in advance or adjusted in real-time, offering flexibility to attract and retain customers.

Forbes Professional’s support extends beyond the initial setup. We will provide ongoing maintenance for both the IPSO appliances and the payment systems, ensuring continuous efficiency. Our award-winning service response guarantees timely and effective solutions should any issues arise throughout the rental contract.

Dan’s launderette, now known as Splash Launderette, has been transformed into a modern, customer-friendly facility. With advanced payment and promotional technologies in place, customer satisfaction and loyalty are optimised. Splash will also benefit from our continued support, allowing it to deliver consistent, high-quality service to its clientele.

Reflecting on the project, Dan Newton, Owner of Splash Launderette, said: “From the moment I started looking at laundry equipment, Forbes has helped me turn an idea into a reality. The sales and installation teams have been available every step of the way, providing advice and support. The quality of equipment and the professionalism of the installation team have been second to none. I look forward to working with Forbes on many future projects.”

Dan's collaboration with Forbes Professional has not only brought his dream to life but also set a new benchmark for launderette services in the local community.

Hannah Forbes, Head of Brand and Content Management at Forbes says: ‘Through this partnership, we are not just supporting a cause—we hope to help foster a community of hope and resilience for families in need. This morning’s visit to Demelza was very impactful and the hospice has created what really feels like a safe physical and emotional space for the families. We look forward to this rewarding collaboration.’
For more information about the amazing work of Demelza Charity visit their website About us | Demelza Hospice Care for Children

We were particularly thrilled to be highly commended for our efforts in Service and Repairs. This acknowledgment underscores our unwavering dedication to providing the highest quality of support and support. Our domestic customers across the UK know that they can rely on the same/ next day engineer response delivered by our in-house team of engineers. If there is an issue with one of our home or electrical appliances, we deliver a fast, local-based response on a nationwide basis, coordinated by our highly adept team at head office.

The highlight of the IER Awards 2024 was taking home the highly coveted awards for Best Marketing and Advertising Campaign as well as Best Website. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and innovative strategies of our marketing and content team, who tirelessly strive to keep our communications effective, engaging, and customer-centric.

At the core of our marketing success is our commitment to optimising our website to ensure that it is accessible, user-friendly, and highly informative. Our active and engaging blog offers insightful articles, and our product demonstration videos provide valuable information to our customers, helping them make informed decisions. Our efforts extend beyond our website; we also send high-impact weekly email broadcasts and offer regular promotions through these communications and our social media channels.

Our approach to business is far from a one-off transaction. We see the customer journey as an ongoing relationship, continuously nurturing and engaging with our customers. This recognition from the IER Awards reinforces our mission to keep our customers informed about the latest technology, efficiency tips, and exciting promotions.

Being acknowledged in such a manner means a great deal to us. It validates the hard work and dedication we put into every aspect of our business, and it inspires us to continue striving for excellence. We remain fully committed to maintaining open and relevant communication streams, ensuring that our customers always have the best possible experience with our brand.

We are indebted to our incredible team and our loyal customers for making this journey possible. As we celebrate this achievement, we look forward to building on this success and continuing to innovate and excel in all areas of our business.

Previously, the complex relied on old, domestic appliances that were not energy efficient. Recognising the need for an upgrade, our comprehensive consultation identified the perfect solution: the installation of three Miele PWM 307 commercial washers and three Miele PWM 307 commercial heat pump dryers. These high-performance machines are renowned for their durability, efficiency, and user-friendly design.

In addition to the new appliances, we integrated the Airwallet cashless payment system. Pairing a central pay terminal and a mobile app payment solution will offer flexibility around payments and will significantly simplify the laundry process for residents. This payment system not only enhances convenience but also reduces administrative tasks for the facility’s management.

The machines were pre-configured to ensure a seamless installation and commissioning process by our installation engineers. Our team then demonstrated the operation of the new laundry equipment to the residents, ensuring they felt confident and comfortable using the upgraded facilities.

One of the key features of this upgrade is the installation of heat pump dryers , which are highly energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, reducing carbon footprints and minimising running costs. By implementing heat pump technology, the site is projected to save 17 tons of CO₂ emissions annually, equivalent to the amount of CO₂ absorbed by 773 mature trees in one year. This substantial reduction in carbon footprint underscores our client’s commitment to sustainable living practices.

The retirement complex will now benefit from Forbes’ multi award-winning laundry service support, as provided by our qualified in-house engineers. Meanwhile, the residents will now enjoy a premium laundry experience that combines convenience, advanced technology, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.

Enhancing Hospitality with Innovative Integration

Our hotel TV systems are designed to seamlessly blend informative and promotional content with a plethora of on-screen entertainment options. Through integration, we enable interactive capabilities, allowing guests to peruse hotel facilities, order room service, and access essential information at the touch of a button. By digitalising hotel directories and eliminating costly in-room stationery, we streamline the guest experience whilst reducing waste and operational costs.

Ensuring Data Security as a Fundamental Priority

Forbes always prioritises the security of guests' data. Whether through cloud-based or server-based solutions, our systems are engineered to safeguard sensitive information, ensuring GDPR compliance and enabling peace of mind for both guests and hoteliers.

Tailored Solutions for Hotels and Serviced Apartments

We understand that every hotel has unique requirements and budget constraints. That's why we offer three distinct solutions: Prestige, Premium, and Platinum. Each solution is carefully curated to provide the level of service that best suits our clients' specific needs.

• Prestige: Offering accessible connectivity and secure data protection, this solution provides essential features such as a welcome page, information channels, and electronic program guides.
• Premium: In addition to the features of Prestige, Premium offers seamless guest messaging, news and weather feeds, smart apps, surveys, spa booking, and room service ordering.
• Platinum: Our most comprehensive solution, Platinum, includes precision PMS integration, real-time messaging, personalised information, express checkout, and remote diagnostics, among other features.

Enabling Secure Access to Netflix and Casting

In an era where streaming services like Netflix have become an integral part of entertainment consumption, we understand the importance of providing guests with access to their favourite content. Our hotel TV systems support casting, allowing guests to securely stream content from their personal devices to the in-room screens, including popular platforms like Netflix. This ensures that guests can enjoy a personalised entertainment experience that is simple to navigate, whilst maintaining the highest standards of data security.

With a wealth of industry experience, Forbes Professional is committed to revolutionising hotel TV systems by combining cutting-edge technology with uncompromising data security and our unparalleled service support. With our tailored solutions and secure content access, we empower hotels to enhance guest satisfaction and increase operational efficiency.

This week, Forbes bids farewell to one of its most cherished assets, Meera Gajjar, Financial Controller and assistant to the directors, who is retiring today. Meera's journey with Forbes is a testament to dedication, growth, and the invaluable contributions she has made over the years.

Meera's professional odyssey commenced in 1982 when she earned her stripes as a Chartered Secretary in Bristol. Her early years saw her honing her skills in esteemed accountancy firms in London, where she cultivated her skills and acumen, laying the groundwork for her career.

In 1996, Meera's path intersected with Forbes, initially joining us part time as a Purchase Ledger Assistant at our Purley offices. Juggling work with nurturing her young family, Meera’s dedication and work ethic were immediately apparent as traits that would define her tenure with Forbes.

As Forbes flourished, so did Meera's role within our organisation, with her commitment and proficiency propelling her to the position of full time Financial Controller. Meera has worked alongside all of the directors, in particular Stuart Forbes and Malcolm Forbes and Stephen Edwards, and her journey has mirrored Forbes' growth; a symbiotic relationship built on mutual trust and shared ambition.

Meera's impact has transcended her role and she has become an integral thread in the fabric of Forbes' culture. Her warmth, professionalism, sense of humour and unwavering support has always endeared her to colleagues within the Company. We are extremely proud of low staff turnover at Forbes and in her 28 years with the company Meera has formed great friendships with her colleagues.

As Meera bids farewell to Forbes, she leaves behind a legacy etched in excellence and camaraderie. Her departure marks the end of an era, but we are excited for her plans of travel and spending time with her family; including her young grandchildren.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Meera for her years of service, wishing her a retirement filled with joy, fulfilment, and well-deserved relaxation. We thoroughly enjoyed your celebratory lunch today and greatly look forward to you popping in to see us and joining us on the dance floor at our company parties!

Meera says,

 ‘I would like to thank Stuart and Malcolm for putting on my celebratory leaving lunch and Geraldine and the Accounts team for organising it -I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I would love to continue to be included in any organised festivities from time to time.

 I have truly enjoyed my work at Forbes and implementing new financial systems over the years. In recent years, it has been particularly exciting to be involved in the rapid expansion of the commercial part of the business.

 I have made some great friends and will miss everyone that I have worked with, especially the Accounts team that have always been such fun to work directly alongside.’

One notable manifestation of this shift is the increasing adoption of rental models for laundry services within PBSAs and university accommodation. By choosing rental solutions, universities and PBSA operators gain greater control over their laundry operation whilst simultaneously ensuring access to a comprehensive  laundry appliance service support. The rental models allow universities and PBSA operators to tailor their offerings to meet the diverse needs of their student populations. Whether through flexible pricing structures or partially or entirely free vend options, this approach enables institutions to provide value-added services that prioritise student well-being over profit margins.

By removing financial barriers and offering free or subsidised laundry services, universities can ensure that all students have equal access to essential amenities, regardless of their socio-economic background. This inclusive approach helps to foster a more equitable and supportive community. By prioritising student well-being over profit margins, universities and PBSA operators are demonstrating a commitment to supporting their students through challenging times and helping to create a positive student experience.

The categories in which we are finalists are as follows:

1. Best Customer Service Award: At Forbes, customer satisfaction is paramount. Our dedicated teams work tirelessly to ensure that every customer receives the support and assistance they need throughout their rental journey.
2. Best Independent Retailer – For Repairs, Service & Spares: Our commitment to providing a comprehensive repair and maintenance service sets us apart in the industry. Our customers rely on our swift response and our nationwide network of field engineers deliver a same/ next day response on a local basis.
3. Best Independent Retailer – Focused on Sustainability Major Domestic Appliances Award: As a rental business, we embrace the circular economy and enable multi-phase product life cycles. From offering energy-efficient appliances to implementing eco-friendly practices in our operations, we are dedicated to reducing our environmental impact and helping customers reduce their carbon footprint.
4. Best Independent Retailer Marketing & Advertising Campaign Award: We are proud of the innovative marketing and advertising campaigns we have launched to promote our brand and services, reaching new audiences and reinforcing our position as a leader in the industry.
5. Best Independent Retailer Website Award: Our online Forbes Rentals platform has been designed to provide our domestic customers with a seamless and user-friendly experience, allowing them to browse and select from our rental products with ease. Our extensive online offering includes product reviews, live chat, FAQs, videos and an active and engaging blog. 
6. Best Independent Retailer – Focused on Sustainability Consumer Electronics: We are honoured to be recognised for our dedication to providing sustainable alternatives for consumer electronics. We carefully select all of our business partners, ensuring that they share our commitment to ESG policies. Rental helps our commercial clients meet sustainability targets and helps our domestic customers transition from consumers to users.

Being named finalists for these prestigious awards is a tremendous honour for our team. To be nominated in so many categories is a huge achievement and very visible recognition of our hard work and dedication across all aspects of our business. We eagerly anticipate the IER awards ceremony on July 5^th 2024, which serves as an annual highlight for industry leaders.

Established in 1926, Forbes Professional offers a cutting-edge solution that helps both small care homes and national care groups establish a streamlined process for all on-going service and account management. At the core of Forbes Professional's offering is a nationwide delivery model with a localised response; fortified by the security and dependability that comes with being a well-established company. Our extensive network of depots and field engineers ensures a highly responsive service and maintenance capability, activated seamlessly through a dedicated hotline at our headquarters.

Collaborating closely with clients, we customise solutions aligned with their unique requirements. Our approach involves comprehensive site surveys, detailed CAD designs, and the meticulous selection of industry-compliant Miele laundry appliances. Recognising the paramount importance of hygiene in the care sector, our commercial laundry equipment strictly adheres to WRAS and CQC guidelines for infection control.

For those in the care sector, Forbes Professional offers flexibility in acquiring laundry equipment through rental, lease, or purchase options, all accompanied by comprehensive maintenance services. Our Complete Care rental solution stands out by providing access to premium equipment without upfront capital investment, coupled with a commitment to cover all repair or replacement expenses throughout the contract's duration.

National care groups partnering with Forbes Professional are assigned a dedicated account manager, streamlining all aspects of account management for a highly efficient and simplified process. This approach ensures a seamless experience for procurement teams and care management staff, reinforcing Forbes Professional's commitment to elevating the standards of care provision in the national landscape.

Forbes Professional is delighted to have recently introduced our intelligent remote monitoring system, Forbes Connect; featuring state-of-the-art Miele washers, dryers, and dishwashers. This innovative new offering seamlessly integrates technology to deliver an unparalleled connected laundry experience for client including hotels, hospitals, universities and care facilities.

At the heart of Forbes Connect is a ground-breaking 24/7 system that provides both our engineers and our clients with real-time insights into the operational status of Miele laundry machines. This transformative feature ensures a pro-active approach to maintenance, further reducing any downtime and enhancing the overall efficiency of laundry operations.

Our dedicated team of engineers operate from an expansive network around the UK and are ready for interventionshould issues be digitally identified. This pro-active approach minimises disruptions and helps us remotely identify faults to increase first time fix rates. It also optimises the lifespan of Miele commercial laundry machines, offering our clients peace of mind and uninterrupted service.

When a fault is detected, Forbes Connect ensures a prompt response by sending notifications directly to our customer service team. Leveraging advanced logistics, our team efficiently allocates engineers based on proximity and availability, guaranteeing a swift resolution to any laundry machine issues.

In line with the global push for sustainability, Forbes Connect goes a step further by monitoring temperature and water resource usage. This invaluable tool not only aids clients in achieving their sustainability targets but also sheds light on the true efficiency of Miele commercial laundry machines. Our clients across care, hospitality, healthcare and education sectors can now make informed decisions to reduce their environmental impact without compromising on the quality of service.

Forbes Connect is another step in our commitment to revolutionise the laundry experience. By harnessing cutting-edge technology, we empower our clients to deliver impeccable service seamlessly, ensuring that thecomfort and well-being of residents, guests and patients remain at the forefront of every operation.

As we embark upon 2024, we are all acutely aware that strategic decision-making is paramount for sustained success. Forbes Professional’s clients approach us seeking to optimise efficiency and streamline operations. There are some compelling benefits of renting commercial laundry appliances:

Cost Efficiency and Capital Preservation: Renting commercial laundry appliances eliminates the need for significant upfront investments in purchasing and maintaining equipment. This allows our clients to preserve capital for other critical operational needs; fostering financial flexibility and agility.

Simplify Budgets and Forecasts: Forbes’ all-inclusive monthly rental payments offer clients a predictable and manageable expense structure. This aids in budgeting and financial planning, providing stability amid potential economic fluctuations or unforeseen challenges.

Access to Cutting-Edge Technology: As proud national distribution partner to Miele, Forbes Professional ensures that we offer clients the very latest technologies, and the most efficient solutions. By choosing to rent from Forbes , clients gain access to state-of-the-art appliances without the risk of outdated equipment affecting operational or environmental efficiency.

Flexibility and Scalability: Renting commercial laundry appliances provides the agility to scale operations up or down based on changing needs, and gives access to regular upgrade opportunities. Clients often start by processing towels in house and then expand their rental account by establishing a complete OPL facility, all managed via a single point of contact.

Freedom from Operational Headaches: Maintenance and repairs of commercial laundry appliances can be a time-consuming and costly endeavour. Forbes’ rental agreements include both reactive and preventativemaintenance services, at no extra cost for the life of the contract. This transfers the responsibility of upkeep to Forbes’ expert teams and eliminates operational headaches for our clients.

Focus of Core Competencies: Our comprehensive laundry appliance management allows our rental clients to redirect internal resources towards their core competencies. Instead of dealing with appliance-related issues, teams can concentrate on enhancing overall operational effectiveness.

Professional Expertise and Support: Established in 1926, Forbes delivers a wealth of expertise in laundry solutions. Our clients benefit from the knowledge and support of professionals who understand the intricacies of laundry equipment and ongoing servicing; ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Risk Mitigation: Choosing to rent commercial laundry appliances shifts the risks associated with equipment breakdowns and obsolescence to the rental provider. This risk mitigation strategy safeguards our clients from unforeseen challenges and allows for a seamless operational flow.

Environmental Considerations: As a responsible commercial laundry appliance provider, Forbes prioritises eco-friendly practices. We help our clients from hotels to care homes and hospitals to universities, schools and businesses align with sustainability goals by adopting energy-efficient appliances and environmentally conscious laundry practices.

Renting commercial laundry appliances is a positive strategic move that can help our clients enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and stay ahead in a competitive market. By leveraging the advantages of cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and access to cutting-edge technology, clients can revolutionise their laundry operations and achieve a new level of operational excellence.

Enter the era of Smart functionality with our cutting-edge products that are exquisitely designed to simplify your life. Our I-Dos washing machines, for instance, take the guesswork out of laundry by auto-dispensing the precise amount for each load, saving you time and reducing waste.

Experience lightning-fast wash cycles with our washers that adapt to the specific load requirements, ensuring optimal energy and water usage. Forbes Rentals is proud to offer Bosch SpeedPerfect Bosch machines thatslash cycle lengths by up to 65 percent, allowing you to turn around an immaculately clean wash load in record time.

When it comes to washing the dishes, our Bosch PerfectDry dishwashers dry as perfectly as they clean. Innovative Zeolith mineral technology everything (including plastics) dried to perfection so you ever need to waste time using the dishwasher again.

We also invite you to step into the future of laundry with our Bosch heatpump dryers, not only delivering a fast dry but also reducing energy consumption by an astounding 65 percent compared to standard condenser dryers.

In 2024, let Forbes Rentals be your partner in saving time, money, and the Earth's precious resources. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through these innovative solutions. Embrace a more efficient lifestyle –call us now and elevate your living experience with Forbes Rentals.

Radio, Electrical and Televisions Retailers’ Association (RETRA) is an invaluable source of industry analysis, opinions and expert contributions, and Forbes was thrilled to feature heavily in the Autumn issue of their Alert magazine. Not only was our IER Award for Sustainability Focus celebrated, but Sean Hannam wrote at length about Forbes further to interviewing CEO Kevin Herring and Head of Brand and Content Management, Hannah Forbes. Dive into Sean Hannam's insightful three-page article in the Dealer Focus section, where he emphasises Forbes' dedication to 'responsible retailing' and explores our focus on 'sustainability and environmental responsibility.' Discover how we're not just about customer service awards but, as quoted from Hannah Forbes, also about fostering a shift from ownership to usership, ‘offering a multi-cycle product lifecycle for a more sustainable lifestyle choice.’ Read the full article from RETRA's magazine below, for an in-depth look at Forbes' impactful approach.

Whether catering to boutique hotels, serviced apartments, or large hotel chains, Forbes offers tailor-made solutions that not only enhance the guest's viewing experience but also streamline operations and boost revenue for their clients. Forbes Professional is proud to work with  top manufacturers of hospitality TVs and highly skilled software developers. This enables them to provide a diverse array of platforms for delivering informative and promotional content, all while ensuring the highest level of security. Each solution is meticulously integrated by specialist engineers and fully backed by Forbes’ multi-award-winning service support.

Benefits of TV Systems?

1. Enhance Hospitality and Increase Guest Satisfaction: Forbes recognises that the in-room entertainment system plays a pivotal role in guest satisfaction. By integrating software onto hotel TVs, they seamlessly blend informative and promotional content with a wide range of on-screen entertainment options, enhancing both revenue and guest experience. Interactive capabilities, such as accessing hotel facilities or ordering room service, further elevate the guest journey.
2. Improve Guest Communication: High-impact scheduled or real-time messaging can be displayed on in-room screens, enhancing guest engagement.
3. Eradicate Costly In-Room Stationery: Forbes's TV systems eliminate the need for outdated in-room stationery, reducing waste and associated printing costs.
4. Promote Hotel Facilities: These systems empower hotels to increase sales and revenue by promoting spa or golf facilities and highlighting special offers.
5. Digitalise Checkout and Room Service Orders: Streamline the guest journey with digitalised room ordering and express checkout.
6. Improve Operational Efficiency: On-screen payment access frees up staff time and minimises reception queues, enhancing efficiency.

Prestige, Premium or Platinum?

Forbes Professional simplifies the selection process by offering three distinct solutions, each catering to different budgets and requirements:

1. Prestige - Accessible Connectivity: This package provides simple access to the connectivity guests expect. It includes a welcome page, information channels, EPG, and QR code integration. Compatible with all TVs and easily activated via existing COAX infrastructure, it ensures data protection and independent TV control.
2. Premium - Seamless Guest Messaging: The Premium package takes the guest experience a step further. It blends welcoming and informative messaging with TV widgets, news feeds, Smart apps, casting, QR integration, and more. It doesn't require new cabling or Wi-Fi capabilities and offers remote tuning and diagnosis, ensuring a secure user experience.
3. Platinum - Precision PMS Integration: The Platinum solution is the pinnacle, enabling on-screen payments, seamless system management, on-screen bill viewing, digitalised room service ordering, automated check-in/out, and express checkout. This advanced system also offers personalised messaging, Netflix compliance, weather information, casting capabilities, remote diagnostics, and more, catering to the most discerning guests while improving operational efficiency.

In-room entertainment is being redefined with solutions that not only meet but exceed the expectations of modern travellers.

Come and talk to our expert consultants on Stand 1538 at The Independent Hotel Show, Olympia, London, 16-17 Oct 2023.  Discover how we can help you enhance operational efficiency and boost revenue whilst ensuring data security and guest satisfaction.

Forbes Professional provides comprehensive service packages with inclusive delivery, installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance, to ensure a hassle-free experience for clients. Forbes’ consultative approach also enables us to ensure that we can truly optimise both savings and efficiency. By providing solutions that extend beyond the surface, we empower clients to make informed decisions that have a profound impact on their operations and bottom line. Forbes’ consultants deliver detailed calculations of cost projections, with an emphasis on the importance of whole life cost analysis.

Whilst rental relinquishes clients of the burden of large upfront payments, Forbes Professional recognises that making informed decisions goes beyond looking at initial expenses and procurement or rental prices. Our team educates clients on energy-efficient solutions, exemplified by the remarkable 70% energy savings achievable with heat pump dryers compared to standard condenser dryers. To underscore the advantages of Forbes’ strategy,our analysis for a new client recently resulted in a staggering projected running cost saving of £1,000,000 throughout the contract's duration.

Forbes’ meticulous approach translates into not only cost savings but also environmental responsibility, as energy-efficient equipment contributes to a greener footprint. Our dedication to creating value for clients by optimising efficiency and minimising costs is a key differentiator.  Choosing Forbes Professional means opting for more than just laundry solutions; it's a commitment to a partnership that prioritises your specific needs, long-term benefits, and sustainability. In an era where sustainability, practicality and financial prudence are paramount, ourconsultative approach and focus on holistic value enables us to deliver transformative solutions to a wide range of clients across the UK.

The Build-to-Rent sector has been rapidly gaining momentum as an innovative approach to meeting the evolving needs of the rental market. With the increasing demand for high-quality rental properties, property developers and investors are embracing this concept to create purpose-built residential communities. As a leading provider of appliance rental services, Forbes offers a seamless solution to meet the unique requirements of Build-to-Rent schemes. Our laundry and kitchen appliance rental solutions help developers and property managers streamline operations, enhance tenant satisfaction, and maximise their returns.

When furnishing their BTR sites, one of the key challenges faced by developers and property managers in the Build-to-Rent sector can be procuring and maintaining appliances. Forbes Professional's appliance rental services simplify the process by providing a comprehensive solution. From the initial installation to ongoing maintenance and service support, Forbes enables a streamlined response to multiple occupancy residences across the UK. Whilst BTR is a growth area, for many years we have worked extensively with serviced apartments, PBSAs, the MOD and sheltered and shared accommodation providers, where we provide and maintain fridges, freezers, hobs, cookers, dishwashers, laundry equipment and TVs for residents. Build-to-Rent schemes often involve large-scale developments with varying property sizes and configurations. Forbes understands this diversity and offers a range of kitchen and laundry appliances to accommodate different needs.

By centralising home and electrical appliance management, property managers can focus on core operations without the burden of individual appliance purchasing, maintenance, and repair. Forbes’ in-house engineers  fully commission all products for safe use,  ensuring  they are in excellent working condition and promptly addressing any repairs or replacements as needed. Our same/ next day service response minimizes downtime and inconvenience for tenants. We recognise the importance of offering modern, energy-efficient appliances that enhance the comfort and convenience of residents. By partnering with Forbes, property managers can access a wide range of high-quality appliances, ensuring that tenants benefit from the latest technology and most energy efficient equipment.

Forbes’ appliance rental services offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for developers and property managers. With sustainability targets becoming increasingly pressing, choosing rental is also a more sustainable alternative than outright purchase as it supports the circular economy that we all need to urgently transition towards.  At the same tie, our rental options provide financial flexibility and help preserve cash flow by eliminating the need for large upfront capital expenditure. Additionally, our inclusive maintenance services relinquish our clients from the burden of unexpected repair or replacement expenses which helps with budgeting and forecasting.

Forbes can help optimise operations, reduce costs, and maximize returns. As the demand for BTR schemes continues to grow, Forbes Professional's commitment to delivering market leading appliance rental services positions us in perfect alignment these modern rental communities.

Forbes is thrilled to be the recipient of the prestigious Best Independent Retailer Award for Sustainability at the IER Awards 2023. This accolade highlights  our commitment to promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility within the industry. The IER Awards are renowned for honouring businesses that demonstrate exceptional dedication and innovation. Consequently, it means the world to us to be recognised for our unwavering focus on offering sustainable products and services while raising awareness about the importance of conscious consumption.

"We are beyond delighted to receive the IER Award for Best Independent Retailer Focused on Sustainability,"said Kevin Herring, CEO of Forbes Rentals. "At Forbes, sustainability is deeply enshrined within our company ethos, and we are firmly committed to making a positive impact on the environment. This industry recognition is a big moment for us as a business. "

Forbes actively collaborates with renowned manufacturers and suppliers to curate a diverse range of energy-efficient laundry, kitchen and electrical appliances. As a rental business, regeneration is at the very core of our operation, and our large domestic customer base has access to a wide range of both new and refurbished items. Our pre-loved range enables us to support the circular economy whilst catering to a kaleidoscope of budgets and requirements. By offering a more sustainable alternative to purchase, Forbes empowers customers to make conscious choices without compromising on quality or convenience. With environmental concerns reaching critical levels, there has been a conscious shift away from ‘consumership’ and towards ‘usership’, and our business model helps enable this movement.

In addition to our product offerings, Forbes takes pride in implementing eco-conscious practices throughout ouroperations and we have made significant strides in reducing our carbon footprint by optimising our logistics. Through our ongoing communication with our customers we also provide education and resources to facilitate sustainable consumption habits. Our commercial consultants engage with clients to help them make the most efficient and sustainable choices for their specific requirements. Whether working with a care home, hospital, hotel, business, gym, veterinary practice, farm or retailer we help clients to leverage from new technologies to help protect the environment as well as their bottom line.

Receiving the IER's Best Independent Retailer Award for Sustainability not only recognises Forbes' achievements but it solidifies our position as a frontrunner in redefining the retail industry’s approach to sustainability. After 100 years of operation, Forbes is extremely agile in our offering but we remain steadfast in ourcommitment to advancing environmentally friendly practices and more sustainable business models.

Forbes Professional carefully selects manufacturers in order to deliver the highest standards of product and service. A national distribution partner to Miele, they install and maintain laundry and dishwashing machines to care homes across the UK.  Miele is renowned for producing highly energy, water and user efficient appliances. Their heat pump dryers reduce energy consumption by an astounding 70% when compared to standard vented dryers making them a great choice for any care home. Furthermore, the employment of an impressive array of hygiene and safety functions enables Miele’s intelligent appliances to continually monitor the parameters that are crucial to disinfection. Miele washing machines offer thermal and chemo-thermal disinfection programmes and recent models have received the highly coveted Seal in Black as a testimony to exceptional hygiene standards, with special recognition for deactivating more than 99.9% of all viruses.

Forbes works closely with clients to deliver a hygienic, efficient solution that meets budget and space requirements and fully complies with WRAS and CQC regulations.  Their inclusive maintenance and repair services eliminateunexpected expenses and reduce machine downtime. Forbes enables invaluable support and adaptability so that care homes can respond to changing resident populations or regulatory guidelines and focus on providing high-quality care, knowing that their equipment is in capable hands.

We have been shortlisted for both their new Best Independent Retailer Focused on Sustainability Award and their prestigious Customer Service Award. For 30 years, the Innovative Electrical Retailing (IER) Awards has been the leading event for the recognition of excellence in the sector – honouring everything from exceptional products and business pioneers to high street heroes and customer service champions. Consequently this is high profile recognition for anyone in our industry.

Our consumer operation, Forbes Rentals, is committed to enabling a sustainable lifestyle choice and supporting that with  a first-class customer service delivery. Regeneration is at the very core of our business and all of our products have multi-phase lifecycles. Rental presents a sustainable alternative to purchase, supporting the circular economy that we are all transitioning towards. By choosing to rent from Forbes, customers have access to premium home and electrical appliances without costly upfront outlay and with the support of same/next day engineer response, at no cost for the life of the contract. Our customers also know that we do all the research for them, carefully selecting our products based on user, energy and water efficiency. Our team then carefully consult each customer to ensure that we deliver the most efficient and appropriate product choices for their home and specific requirements.

After almost 100 years of operation, our product offering has evolved considerably but we still hold firm to the same traditional values and our customers know that they can rely on us to deliver both a product and service that they can trust.

Being shortlisted for these awards is hugely exciting for our entire team, and a testament to their ongoing hard work and dedication.

When Queen Elizabeth II was coronated in 1953, the world was a very different place. However, Forbes’ consumer business was still busily providing televisions to customers to ensure that they could watch the ceremony. At that point, TV licences were only held by 1.1million people in the UK and almost 21 million people watched the Coronation in Britain.  There would have been a lot of people gathered around each of our tiny TV screens to watch the historical moment.

The Coronation of King Charles III takes place at a time when we all have TVs in our homes as well as big TV screens in bars, in gyms, in hospitals and care homes and our hotel guest rooms. We also all now have little  screens in our pockets but we will still come together to watch the ceremony on a shared screen, for a shared experience.  With ever-increasing TV screen sizes, exceptional picture and sound quality we will be able to truly immerse ourselves in this historic moment. Whether we choose to watch it at home or at the local pub, in the village hall or in the hotel foyer, we will be able to truly feel part of the big event. It will be very different to huddling around the tiny black and white CRTs of days gone by.

All the main channels will be showing the procession and service so our commercial clients will be able to deliver all the pomp and ceremony via BBC, ITV, BT,  SKY, Freeview or Virgin on their rented hospitality screens.  In a milestone moment for TV broadcasting, SKY News will be broadcasting the coverage in Ultra HD and the BBC is waiving licence fees for venues putting on community screenings.

Whether you watch the live coverage of the Coronation or not we hope you all enjoy the bank holiday weekend and make wonderful memories of this historic moment.

When it comes to infection control, veterinary practices need to implement stringent hygiene processes in order to prevent cross-contamination. With the inevitable blood, saliva, hair, faecal matter, fleas, mud and pathogens that are all inevitable realities, strict cleanliness procedures are essential for combatting infection risks.  When reviewing  their processes, it is essential for all vets to be mindful that laundry is central to maintaining the requisite hygiene standards;  protecting scrubs and uniforms as well as towels and animal bedding.

In order to ensure an industry compliant laundry operation within a veterinary practice, it is essential to use commercial laundry equipment as domestic laundry appliances are not sufficiently robust and won’t reliably kill infectious diseases. Domestic machines will also fail to meet the requirements of WRAS Category 5, which is essential for all healthcare applications in the UK, including vets.  Vets also need to ensure that their laundry appliances will meet and maintain high temperatures for specified amounts of times in order to be in line with current health guidelines. Furthermore, it is essential to ensure that the laundry process itself is fully compliant with industry requirements; appropriate PPE must worn at all times and there must be an allowance for the necessary segregation of dirty and clean items.

Forbes Professional works with veterinary practices to help ensure full adherence with all of the applicable regulations. As the proud national partner to Miele, we offer their water and energy efficient commercial washing machines and tumble dryers to veterinary practices across the UK.  Miele’s commercial laundry appliances are robust and reliable whilst offering impressively fast cycles and delivering both sluice and thermal disinfection.  Their commercial washers feature dump valves to ensure that any waste flows directly down the drain as opposed to down the pipes, avoiding contamination issues and eliminating problems arising from clogged animal hair or fur. All of Miele’s commercial washing machines are fully WRAS compliant to Category 5, with an air gap to prevent any backflow or freshwater contamination due to vets’ hazardous waste.

Forbes Professional’s consultants work closely with veterinary practices to help devise the right solution for their specific requirements whilst ensuring adherence to all of the necessary industry, hygiene and waterboard requirements.  All of our laundry equipment is fully installed and commissioned for safe use and we provide complimentary user training. With options for both appliance rental and purchase, we support clients with a same/ next day engineer response as we know that machine downtime is hugely disruptive.  Our popular Complete Care solution gives vets all of the benefits of our multi-award winning service at no extra cost for the life of the contract.

For more information on our laundry solutions for veterinary practices, contact our consultants on 0345 070 2331.

With environmental concerns becoming ever more pressing, Passivhaus accreditation provides a great framework for the next generation of sustainable building.  It is no surprise that the innumerable benefits of  ‘Passive House’ certification are being increasingly adopted by care homes and other shared accommodation providers including Local Authorities, universities and PBSAs. The necessary commitment to reducing carbon emissions requires that such building standards are applied widely throughout the UK. Furthermore, it is acknowledged that such conscious principals can deliver residents with a better space, and consequently a higher quality of life.

As Forbes Professional delivers commercial laundry appliance rental to a wide range of sectors across the UK, it is fundamental that we understand the unique requirements of each individual project. Clients that wish to adhere to Passivhaus standards require specialised attention to ensure that we work within all of the relevant guidelines for their specific environment.   As part of the larger picture, we are acutely aware that the efficiency of supply chains is critical to both our own carbon footprint and that of our clients.  We closely monitor the environmental and human impact of our products’ journeys and only work with manufacturers that share our commitment to ESG practices.

With sustainability being absolutely key to the entire design principal of Passivhaus, it is essential to source the most energy and water efficient commercial laundry appliances for each project. The exact specification would vary depending upon the individual requirements, but we think that Miele’s heat pump dryers and commercial washing machines are ideally suited for use in a Passivhaus. Their advanced technologies and water and energy-saving features significantly reduce consumption. Impressively, heat pump technology can reduce energy usage by 60%, when compared to standard condenser dryer solutions. Additionally, these exquisitely engineered German appliances are impressively quiet in operation, helping to maintain the peaceful space that Passivhaus’  are intended to create. It is always important to survey the site and consider the anticipated machine usage in order to calculate the optimum drum capacity and machine configuration.  Our experienced consultants always  assess any electrical, plumbing and access requirements for each project. We can use our expertise to guide Passivhaus clients through the planning and design stages, ensuring that we adhere to all of the relevant industry and building regulations for laundry provision.

For any care home, the laundry process is critical to maintaining  stringent hygiene standards and is therefore a service area that will be closely evaluated upon inspection by the Care Quality Commission.  The CQC state on their website that in order for care homes to achieve their ‘Good’ rating, there is an expectation of a ‘designated room for storage and managing laundry.’ They will also require that ‘laundry processes follow national guidance and correctly manage’ and clean ‘used and infectious laundry to minimise risk of infection.’

In order to ensure that your care home has efficient and CQC compliant procedures in place, Forbes Professional advises that imperatives go beyond the need for commercial laundry equipment that provides the requisite disinfection. Key consideration s for your laundry room include:

1.     Commercial laundry equipment that provides the requisite disinfection.

2.     Efficient segregation of clean and soiled laundry at all times.

3.     Proper hand hygiene must be maintained, with ready access to wash basins.

4.     A clean and dirty flow system to avoid recontamination.

5.     Any hygiene concerns must be immediately escalated to a designated lead for cleaning and decontamination.

6.     Surfaces must be decluttered and equipment must be well maintained.

7.     Appropriate PPE is essential for all laundry handling.

8.     Laundry operators must be familiarised with the correct laundry and infection control processes.

Forbes Professional works with clients to help them establish a fully compliant laundry operation. Our consultants offer complimentary site surveys and can advise upon on the relevant legislation, IPC policy expectations and industry requirements. Forbes provides care homes with Miele’s energy and water efficient commercial laundry and offers comprehensive user training to ensure the machines’ features are fully optimised. All of our products adhere to the requirements of  WRAS and the CQC and are protected by our multi-award winning service support, at no extra cost for the life of the contract.

For any advice regarding your care home laundry function, please contact us on 0345 0702335 or at info@forbes-professional.co.uk

Our team of consultants are experts in their field and work closely with each client to deliver the right solution for their specific requirements. Where clients are looking to bring their laundry function back in house, we can work closely with them throughout the planning and design stages to create a highly efficient laundry solution. As part of our consultancy process, we provide complimentary site surveys which enable us to assess the proposed site and ascertain the costs of the existing laundry process. Our team can then provide you with a cost calculation for our proposed solution, detailing any projected savings by bringing your laundry process in-house. We can provide CAD drawings of the laundry room concept, detailing all the requisite electrical and plumbing infrastructure.  We can also help you to structure efficient process flows within the laundry room and throughout the laundry logistics, ensuring that the room layout readily enables the requisite segregation of dirty and clean wash loads.

Our Miele commercial laundry equipment provides a robust and energy efficient laundry solution that can handle high throughput with ease. Where required, and depending on the whether the client will also be providing self-service laundry equipment, we can provide payment systems that will allow for simple one step contactless transactions. We also offer auto-dosing equipment which minimises waste and optimises the wash quality by ensuring that the right amount of detergent is dispersed for each wash.

As part of the laundry implementation, our in-house engineers not only deliver, install and commission all equipment for safe use. We also offer comprehensive staff or user training to ensure that the equipment will be used to its best potential, making best use of our machines’ energy and water efficiency.

An OPL helps you to  take back control of your laundry operation. The key benefits to our clients are:

1.     Independence

An on-premise laundry function enables you to control your own operating costs, freeing you from market price fluctuations.  It also relinquishes you from the stress of delayed laundry returns.  By choosing Forbes Professional, you know that you have a reliable service partner for the equipment to help you deliver a consistency.

2.     Product efficiency

By choosing our Miele equipment, clients receive durable, user-friendly and highly efficient laundry machines. Highly programmable with a range of innovative features, Miele commercial laundry equipment delivers hygienic results whilst protecting fabrics.

3.     Financial efficiency

By choosing Forbes, you can avoid costly upfront payments by leasing your commercial laundry equipment. There are no repairs and replacement costs for the life of the contract, which helps with budgeting and forecasting.

4.     Sustainability

An OPL does not require long  journeys for laundry transportation, making it less impactful on the environment. Furthermore, by choosing to lease Miele’s highly energy and water efficient machines you are supporting a responsible circular economy.

5.     Flexibility

When unexpected situations arise, you can react internally to them, deploying staff as needed to allow for differing influxes of washing.  You can also leverage from Miele’s ‘peak load system’ to ensure that machines are not demanding power at the same time.

6.     Infection control

With both sluice and thermal disinfection and dedicated disinfection programmes, our Miele commercial laundry machines meet the most stringent hygiene standards which is why we have installed them into both private and NHS hospitals.

7.     Service satisfaction

After almost 100 years’ of operation, we continue to deliver an industry leading, local-based response on a national basis. Should our equipment need a repair or service our aim is always to dispatch an engineer to site the same/next day, at no cost to the client.

For more information as to how we can help you establish an OPL, please contact one of our friendly consultants on 0345 070 2335.

Forbes was the chosen SME from within our industry to qualify, based upon ‘the provision of exceptional service.’ There can only be one business that wins this award based on exceptional service, as well as one for sustained progress, for each of the small, medium and large businesses across eight sectors.

Customer service is at the very centre of our operation, and we value all customer feedback that we receive. Feefo works as a trusted third party that verifies customer reviews, and we know that prospective customers are heavily influenced by such platforms. This extra endorsement means a huge amount to us as a family business. In our 97 years of operation, we have evolved considerably to become the national operation that we are today. Despite being progressive and agile in our offering, we have never lost sight of the vision of our founder, Frederick Donald Forbes, when he set out to provide a much valued and necessary service to his local community.

In today’s world, rental has never been more relevant; it represents a more sustainable and financially accessible alternative to purchase. However, it is imperative to ensure that rental customers know that they will receive a first-class support from the initial sales process to the installation and ongoing repair and maintenance.  Our customers’ journeys are never based upon a single touch point with our business. We establish long term relationships with our customers, supporting them through technological advances and ensuring them of a same/next day engineer response should they need it.

We are so grateful to all of our customers for their ongoing support, and for all of their messages of appreciation. We feel completely honoured to have been singled out for this high profile recognition by Feefo; a true testament to our experienced, dedicated and hard-working staff.

https://www.feefo.com/en/business/trusted-service

With increasingly urgent environmental concerns, people are becoming acutely aware of their personal  and corporate responsibilities. Consequently, when looking for new commercial laundry, kitchen or electrical appliances, rental represents a sustainable alternative to purchase.  We are all attempting to transition towards a circular economy, and renting items is a simple way to for us to transition to ‘users’ as opposed to ‘consumers.’

As a rental business, Forbes takes our environmental and moral responsibilities seriously and are proud that the regeneration of products is at the very core of our operation. Sustainability is deeply enshrined within  our values and policies and our rented kitchen, laundry and electrical appliances have multi-phase life cycles. Our products never end up in landfill when they breakdown or are upgraded.

Where any component fails, we would always endeavour to repair or replace it and it would be returned to the customer or to our stock flow for re- distribution. Our key sustainability objectives are to ensure optimum resource use, repairability, re-usability and recyclability in our business and throughout our supply chains. We also offer our consumer base an extensive range of high quality refurbished electrical, laundry and kitchen appliances, enabling us to deliver exceptional value without any quality compromise and with the same first-class service support.

At Forbes we have worked hard to maintain relationships with the best partners and suppliers to ensure that we have access to a large variety of products. Our partnership with our manufacturers has allowed us access to machines with key features and benefits that mean we are able to comply with environmental guidelines. We only supply equipment from companies that are pro-active in their approach to providing environmentally friendly and energy efficient products. We always consider any environmental and human impact of our products’ journeys and only work with manufacturers that share our commitment to fair labour practices, environmental progress and anti-corruption policies.

At this unprecedented time, it has never been more essential to ensure that you are optimising energy and water efficiency within the home. Kitchen, laundry and electrical appliances are a key consideration when looking at running costs. New appliances consume less energy than older models and Smart technology can save a considerable amount of time, energy and money.

Our expert advisors receive extensive training to help our clients choose the most efficient products based on the size of their usage, their budget and their industry requirements. We will always help clients minimise both energy and water consumption through their product choices. As technology advances, intelligent features can really help to improve efficiency. However, it is important that users know how to use items to their full potential. That is why our installation engineers provide user-demonstrations at the point of delivery.

All of our products are then fully supported by an inclusive service and maintenance support, at no extra costs for the life of the contract. In the first instance, our experts would always endeavour to identify, and ideally resolve, issues remotely over the phone or video call before dispatching an engineer the same/ next day. This enables the most efficient response and fastest resolution to any problems whilst minimising any mileage and resulting fuel consumption.

By subscribing to our rental services, clients have free ongoing access to our customer service teams for any user queries. We also make it our business to keep our customers and commercial clients informed of the latest technological advances, and the ways in which they can optimise efficiency within their home.

Clients know that they have the benefit of periodic upgrades, safe in the knowledge that their old items will be reconditioned and re-homed, used for spare parts, or responsibly disposed of at the end of their life.

Forbes carefully select our manufacturers to ensure that we offer our clients the highest standards of both product and service. As a proud national distribution partner to Miele, we instal and maintain their exquisitely manufactured laundry and dishwashing machines to a wide range of sectors across the UK.

Miele is renowned for producing highly energy, water and user efficient appliances that deliver on every level.  Their machines are designed to meet the most exacting hygiene standards and are recommended for healthcare applications.  Following hard on the heels of their coveted golden virus seal of approval for meeting impressive hygiene standards outside the healthcare sector, the Institute for Integrative Hygiene and Virology has once again commended Miele commercial appliances. In particular, Miele washing machines and commercial dishwashers from the most recent generations have now received the sought after seal in black as a testimony to even higher standards.

This seal of approval is awarded by an independent team of experts, based on information collated through a survey on hygiene excellence by the Institute for Integrative Hygiene and Virology – InFluenc_H. Miele's 6-8kg  Little Giants washing machine series  and the new 12-14kg benchmark machines achieved recognition for deactivating more than 99.9% of all viruses at temperatures of 70°C or 75°C. To cater for applications in hygienically sensitive areas, these machines also feature thermal and chemo-thermal disinfection programmes for extra protection.

The parameters crucial to disinfection are monitored continuously by Miele commercial equipment, by the employment of impressive array of hygiene and safety functions.  If the water temperature drops below requisite hygiene levels, the programme will be  immediately terminated, and the display will indicate an error code. The temperature chart can also be monitored via the Miele online portal. If a commercial washing machine is connected to a Miele auto-dispensing system, the correct volumes of chemical detergents are guaranteed, and early warnings are issued when levels are low. Miele technology also ensures that programmes lock once started in order to prevent premature termination of the wash process. Furthermore, after the disinfection phase, no further water is taken in via the detergent dispenser, which  significantly reduces the risk of recontamination. Information on the parameters reached is displayed at the end of programmes. The Miele PFD 407 with its Vario TD programme was previously awarded the gold seal of approval and now has received the black virus seal too for offering thermal disinfection that was only otherwise familiar from the medical sector.

Miele produces machines that are capable of removing more than 99.99% of enveloped and non-enveloped viruses; including Coronavirus, influenza and the Norovirus.  With hygiene of paramount importance in all environments, ask Forbes Professional’s team of experts which machines will maintain the highest levels of infection control within your laundry operation.