Access to clean, fresh water is fundamental to living a healthy life.

 

Due to the changing climate, rising pollution levels and Australia’s rapidly growing population, the demand for clean drinking water has never been higher. The government has a duty to provide Australians with safe drinking water, but despite their best efforts, water quality at the point of consumption may not always benefit our short or long-term health goals.

 

Filtering tap water ensures you have a safe, clean water supply, with obvious benefits to health and wellbeing. Filtering tap water can decrease exposure to the numerous known carcinogens and chemicals in tap water. It also improves the taste and smell of tap water, encouraging users to drink water more often. Not only does drinking more water lead to overall greater health and energy, but the fluoride found in tap water also promotes better dental health.

 

Billi systems deliver instant boiling, chilled, still or sparkling filtered water direct from the unit, reducing the demand for plastic bottled water in both the home and the workplace. With periodic plans and plans available for sites with multiple units, Billi offers a bespoke management system for any customer need.

 

Billi’s range of Quadra instantaneous Boiling & Chilled filtered drinking water products are our commercial flagship and are proudly Australian Made, from our facility in Melbourne. The water-cooled Quadra range is synonymous with innovation, sustainability, and quality.

Billi’s Quadra products continue to be designed with green building principles in mind, being Ecolabel Type 1 certified by Global Greentag to a Gold level certification, which is completely without peer in the drinking water industry. The Quadra Boiling & Chilled range encompasses 9 capacity specifications to suit any commercial project. It is fitted standard with the X series Levered dispenser (XL), offering AS1428 compliance and a range of 9 popular and contemporary architectural finishes.

 

Watch our YouTube Video

 

 

Culligan agrees to divest Billi to Strix as it seeks clearance for its global combination with Waterlogic

 

ROSEMONT, IL, USA – Following its agreement to combine with Waterlogic Group Holdings (“Waterlogic”), a global designer, manufacturer, distributor and service provider of purified drinking water dispensers, Culligan International (“Culligan”), the innovative brand in consumer-focused sustainable water solutions and services, has reached an agreement to sell Billi, a producer of filtered boiling and chilled multifunctional taps, to Strix Group Plc (“Strix”). This divestiture seeks to address concerns raised by the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), and the New Zealand Commerce Commission (NZCC).

The agreement to divest Billi to Strix, a global leader in kettle controls and filtration technologies, seeks to address the overlap between the Billi and Zip businesses in the UK, Australia and New Zealand.

This agreement reflects undertakings that have been submitted to regulators to divest the Billi business to Strix and is subject to the relevant approvals by the competition regulators. As regards the UK, the CMA has confirmed that the offer to divest Billi UK may be acceptable as a suitable remedy, and their assessment will continue with a consultation, the customary next step in the approval process. The undertakings to divest the Billi business in Australia and New Zealand have already been accepted by the ACCC and NZCC, subject to approval of Strix as a purchaser.

This new and committed investor would support Billi to thrive and flourish independently under new ownership and further expand in the fast-growing area of under-the-sink solutions for premium filtered drinking water systems to the benefit of employees, distributors and customers.

Until completion of the divestiture, Billi will continue to operate business as usual, delivering exceptional service for customers, supporting their teams, and executing on their 2022 operating plans.

We anticipate the sale of Billi to complete a short time after the close of the global combination of Culligan and Waterlogic, which is expected in the fourth quarter of 2022, subject to final regulatory approvals.

 

ABOUT CULLIGAN INTERNATIONAL

Founded in 1936 and headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois, Culligan International is a world leader in delivering premium water services and solutions that improve the health and wellness of consumers. Committed to sustainable solutions, the company offers some of the most technologically advanced water filtration and treatment services and solutions available, including water softeners, drinking water systems, and whole-house systems for homeowners and bottleless coolers for businesses. Culligan’s network of dealers and direct operations is the largest in its industry, with more than 7,500 employees and 1,000 dealers in 90 countries. Culligan’s 35+ brands serve more than 50 million consumers every year and share a mission of bringing better water to consumers anywhere they need it – in the home, at work or on-the-go. For more information visit: www.corporate.culligan.com.

 

ABOUT WATERLOGIC

Waterlogic is an innovative designer, manufacturer, distributor and service provider of drinking water dispensers and accessories designed for environments such as offices, factories, hospitals, restaurants, hotels, schools and public spaces. From freestanding, countertop and integrated dispensers to high-volume hospitality solutions, water filling stations, fountains and boilers, every solution focuses on delivering the best quality water in the safest and most sustainable way. Waterlogic has its own subsidiaries in 23 countries. In addition, Waterlogic’s extensive independent global distribution network spans over 50 countries around the world in North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and South Africa. For more information visit: www.waterlogic.com.

 

ABOUT STRIX

Isle of Man based Strix, is a global leader in the design, manufacture and supply of kettle safety controls and other components and devices involving water heating and temperature control, steam management and water filtration.

Strix’s core product range comprises a variety of safety controls for small domestic appliances, primarily kettles. Kettle safety controls require precision engineering and intricate knowledge of material properties in order to repeatedly function correctly. Strix has built up market leading capability and know-how in this field since being founded in 1982.

Strix is admitted to trading on the AIM Market of the London Stock Exchange (AIM: KETL).

 

Media contact
Rosanna Turner

T: +44 (0)7925 035544

E: rosanna.turner@waterlogic.com

 

Investor Relations contact:

Andy Kellogg

T: +1-847-430-1360

E: andy.kellogg@culligan.com

Tools for Increasing Collaboration and Productivity

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Digital Tools & Resources 

Billi is at the forefront of digital transformation, providing architects, designers and builders with digital tools and libraries for all their specification and installation needs.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has made design and construction companies adapt to a new era of workplace flexibility. More employees are working from home, with less people in the office at any given time. Travelling to key markets to meet with clients is a less common occurrence due to difficulties with travel and quarantine restrictions. A growing number of people are making
the move out of city centres and working in remote locations, leveraging digital technology as a way to remain connected to their working life.

However, for many workers, the shift towards remote working is not without its challenges. Loneliness, time management problems, increased feelings of isolation and digital miscommunication are only some of the problems employees face working from home for extended periods of time. Companies who fail to address these issues directly face a workforce whose motivation and productivity are significantly reduced.

As a collaborative practice, architecture, design and construction are acutely impacted by these issues. Face-to-face interaction, whether in a studio or on a construction site, is key to the production of a good design. Without effective solutions to connect remote employees, projects risk costly mistakes, project delays and poor quality outcomes. This can lead to unhappy employees, making it difficult for companies to attract and retain high-performing team members.

With today’s teams increasingly dispersed, developing ways to maintain and build motivation and productivity is more important than ever. A growing number of interactive tools are helping design and construction professionals streamline project delivery while enhancing collaboration and human connection both within the organisation and with external clients and stakeholders.

Bridging the digital divide

From design through to construction, the importance of collaboration is paramount. Projects involve a wide range of stakeholders, all of different backgrounds, skills and knowledge levels. Meaningful communication is important to ensure all aspects of a project remain coordinated and stakeholders are all working towards a shared objective.

New digital tools are not only imperative to allow team members to communicate and to achieve tasks, but also to maintain motivation and focus through human connection. Tools such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Slack have been used to allow face-toface interactions and foster dynamic team discussion.
Newer platforms such as Miro, a collaborative whiteboarding platform, present further opportunities to embed collaborative practices among distributed teams. Asana and Jira, already commonly used by software companies, can also be adapted to help coordinate team management and project tracking.

The architecture industry has long been designing digitally, with Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools such as AutoCAD and Revit making significant advances over the years. BIM collaboration tools represent another important step in digital design, providing the ability to track issues and include questions, comments and requests for information within the BIM platform. This capability enables project stakeholders to share, review, and comment on data-rich building models in real time, and create a single source of truth for
architectural, engineering and construction teams.

When team members are distributed geographically, with no access to the actual building site, this is key to minimising errors and miscommunication.

Virtual and augmented reality software tools are increasingly being used by companies to further build capacity in remote teams. Virtual reality (VR) is software that creates an immersive, simulated experience, whereas augmented reality (AR) adds digital elements to a real-life environment. Digital tools that use VR or AR allow design teams to collaborate in 3D environments. A building or structure can be simulated digitally, and users can immerse themselves within it before it is constructed. This allows teams to test run ideas before construction work has started.
VR and AR can greatly benefit clients, as they can be walked through simulated environments and decide whether it meets their requirements.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to streamline projects and help stakeholders deliver greater value to clients. AI refers to technology that mimics human cognitive functions, like problem-solving and pattern recognition. Applied to construction, AI can analyse construction data and apply those learnings to individual projects. Predicting cost overruns, project planning and improving scheduling and productivity are some of the potential applications. Software can be programmed to analyse performance requirements and generate the optimal building design, resolving any clashes between architecture, engineering, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing models.

Digital Tools & Resources

Billi is a leading Australian manufacturer and supplier of high quality drinking water and washroom systems.
The Billi brand is synonymous with Australian innovation, providing products of uncompromising quality. Billi’s range of superior instant filtered water systems are suitable for a wide range of professional applications and environments.

Billi is at the forefront of digital transformation, providing architects, designers and builders with digital tools and libraries for all their specification and installation needs.
For easy reference and accessibility, Billi provides a central online information repository of technical documentation, including Data Sheets, BIM Files, Install and User Guides, Warranties and

Certifications. This comprehensive library provides valuable assistance for every project stage, from pre-design and construction through to operation.

The Billi BSPEC Generator allows users to quickly identify the Billi solution that best meets their project requirements. Select the combination required, how many users, preferred dispenser type and whether there is an optional hot and cold mixer required, and this interactive online tool presents to you the most suitable instant filtered water system. By guiding you step by step to find the ideal system, the SPEC Generator is a valuable time-saver.

A key innovation in the design and specification process, Billi’s 3DBuild tool provides the same level of technical information as the BSPEC Generator with additional 3D visualisations. In a few simple steps, you can see how your chosen product profile interacts with the environment by customising your preferred underbench module, dispenser installation and finish option alongside 12 popular benchtops and 10 trendleading joinery colour palettes. Full document sets are available in conjunction with your specification and additional features to support product specifi cation and document collation are soon to be released.

These digital tools are supported by Billi’s world class customer service experience. Billi offers comprehensive customer care with their Australia-wide network of trained service technicians and service agents providing technically correct, prompt and reliable service.

 

FULL ARTICLE: ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN WHITEPAPER FLIPBOOK 

 

 

Hydration is essential for a healthy life; many people prefer to drink chilled still water while others would rather sparkling water, something with a bit more fizz. Sparkling water is water that has been infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure. Filtered sparkling systems are an excellent, natural, and healthier alternative to sugary drinks.

Still and sparkling options are as healthy as each other and the choice usually comes down to taste. However, instead of having to choose, you can have both! Billi systems can provide filtered still and sparkling water at the touch of a button, instantly producing a refreshing drink.

 

Benefits

There are some myths that sparkling water is less healthy than still water, however, that is not the case. Here are some benefits to drinking sparkling water:

Carbonated water is a fresh substitute to soft drinks that are often high in sugar and pose various health risks. High sugar content can lead to high cholesterol and tooth decay. Sparkling water can also help increase your daily intake of water. Many people may find that drinking 8 glasses of still water can feel like a chore. So, filtered sparkling water can assist you to stay hydrated.

A glass of sparkling water can also help you resist the urge of reaching for a pack of sweet afternoon snacks. Sparkling water can extend or create a feeling of fullness after a meal. This means you will feel fuller for longer and therefore won’t snack as much or as often!

Studies have shown reports that carbonated water significantly reduces symptoms of chronic digestive issues. It has shown to reduce constipation and improve bowel movement.

 

Mix It Up

Plain sparkling water may be a bit boring for some people. However, that doesn’t mean it has to that way. The following ideas will have you investing in a Billi hydration system in no time:

 

Our Billi B-5000 Sparkling system for residential use or Eco Sparkling for commercial use are water systems which provide chilled and sparkling water instantly. You can even adjust the level of sparkling to suit your taste. Instead of purchasing a bottle of flavoured, sparkling water that might contain hidden nasties, why not invest in our sparkling system and improve the way you drink water from the comfort of your own home or office.

 

 

Here’s why it’s important to stay hydrated during the summer

Hydration is crucial for brain function, which in turn is responsible for movement, speech and thought. If you become dehydrated, all these functions can be affected. Without water, you will start to feel lethargic, fatigued, and unwell.

Headaches are commonly a result from poor dehydration amongst other feelings of poor health. Feeling unwell can be exacerbated by hot weather, meaning that dehydration can be lethal.

Why is it easier to become dehydrated in the heat?

Dehydration happens more commonly in warmer climates and the effects tend to also appear quicker. The hotter the temperature of your environment, the more water you are likely to lose from your body through sweat or breathing. Replacing the water that has left your body is crucial, otherwise, dehydration will start to occur.

Unfortunately, dehydration and heat exhaustion often go hand in hand. An imbalance of fluids and electrolytes in the body is caused from the loss of water from cells through dehydration. Additionally, extensive exposure to the sun or heat will likely make you start to suffer from heat exhaustion too.

The recommended daily intake for water for adults is usually 6-8 glasses. However, you should drink more water in hot weather. Aiming for a minimum of 8 glasses is ideal but more if you’re exercising or feel you’re losing lots of fluids through sweating or urine.

 

How to stay hydrated in hot weather

This might sound simple, but there are a few things you can do to ensure you don’t overheat or become dehydrated during the summer.

  1. Temperatures peak between 12pm-3pm so to avoid becoming dehydrated it’s best to stay in the shade (even if you’re trying to tan). It is important to take regular breaks from the sun and direct sunlight.
  2. To ensure you’re properly hydrated drink enough chilled water at regular intervals throughout the day. Soft drinks can be tempting especially in hot weather, but they won’t effectively hydrate you. If you feel particularly hot, try a sports drink with added electrolytes to replace those lost through sweat.
  3. Alcohol and caffeine are both diuretics, which means that they will dehydrate you quicker than other beverages. Therefore, it’s best to avoid these drinks while you’re in the sun. If you do want to enjoy a beer or coffee, follow it with a glass of water to ensure you stay hydrated.

 

 

Interesting Uses for Sparkling Water That You’ll Want to Know.

Refreshing, bubbly and cool, sparkling water is the perfect drink for a hot summer’s day. Add lemon, cordial, or mint, and you can elevate it to an even more sophisticated beverage that’s perfect for entertaining. However, while carbonated water is great for drinking, there are many other uses for it too.

Here we’ll look at other interesting uses for sparkling water.

 

Cleaning – Sparkling water acts as the perfect cleaning agent to remove tough stains and dirt off bathroom surfaces such as porcelain. Simply clean with a cloth and wipe dry afterwards to prevent water stains.

Stain Removal – A home hack that really works. Sparkling water can be used to lift difficult stains. Next time you spill something, try rubbing the affected area with carbonated water. It works on wine, food and more!

Windscreen Washing – The carbonation in the water can help remove greasy stains, fingerprints, bird droppings and dirt on your car. Spray your windscreen with sparkling water and it will help lift the mess.

 

 

Marinate meat – One use you may find very surprising is that you can marinate meat in sparkling water! The carbonation makes the cuts of meat juicier and softer. Use the same spices and seasoning as you usually would and work them into the meat before allowing it to sit in the sparkling water for 30 minutes.

Cooking – There are several ways you can use sparkling water in the kitchen. In some instances, replacing still water with sparkling can create a different effect on your cooking. For example, if you boil fizzy water instead of still when cooking pasta, the cooked pasta should end up having a lighter texture. Likewise, if you use sparkling water instead of milk when making pancakes, they will be lighter and fluffier when cooked.

 

 

Stop Rust – The Co2 present in sparkling water wears away rust. Pour the carbonated water on the rust and allow to sit for 5 minutes. This will also work to loosen rusted nuts and bolts. The Carbon Dioxide will wear away the rust and particles build up to loosen them easier.

Clean Jewels – The metal and gems on your jewellery can become dull, scratched, and darkened from everyday use. An easy way to combat this is to warm up a small container of sparkling water and place your jewellery inside for a few seconds. Scrub away any residue or dirt with a toothbrush and your jewellery will be left sparkling.

 

 

For more information about Billi Products, Visit our products page.

 

Billi Australia, as a team, took part in the 2019 WaterAid Water Challenge.  We made the pledge to drink only water for the full month of March.

 

Most Australian’s are lucky enough to have access to clean water whenever it is wanted or needed. Yet we often take it for guaranteed or turn a blind eye and quench our thirst with other beverages such as coffee, tea, soft drinks, cordial, juice or alcohol. Some of which can counteract the benefits of water and dehydrate us even further.

 

H2O is crucial for one’s health and wellbeing. Up to 60% of the human body is made up of water. Those fluids in your body aid in essential processors such as transporting nutrients, regulating body temperature, maintaining the body’s fluid balance, digesting food and creating of saliva. Yet 80% of Australian adults suffer from chronic dehydration.

 

We took part in the water challenge, not only to help raise funds to provide clean water to people less fortunate than us, but also to raise awareness of just how important water is to all of us.

 

We are proud to announce we came very close to our $1000 goal by raising $825, which will provide clean water to at least 2 families.

 

Thank you all for your support and donations.

March 11 is World Plumbing Day.

It is a date that has been fixed on the calendars of the World Plumbing community since its establishment by the WPC in 2010 and is now a fixture on the calendars of political and social institutions around the globe.

The international plumbing community, as represented by the Council, has a vital role in promoting the link between good quality plumbing, health, environmental sustainability and, increasingly, economic prosperity.

March 11 is marked by celebrations, competitions, seminars, and activities all around the world.  People from within and outside the plumbing fraternity come together to learn, share knowledge, build connections and find opportunities to collaborate to improve the quality of, and access to, fresh water and safe sanitation.

There are now hundreds of annual World Plumbing Day events, promoting the link between good plumbing sanitation and human and environmental health.

At Billi, we’re proud to be part of a community that has made such significant difference to the world as we know it.  Since the invention of the first shower in 710BC, the plumbing and water industries have come a very long way.  And now fast forward to 2019, we’re proud to showcase innovative under-bench boiling, chilled and sparkling filtered water systems.

1 in 9 people worldwide don’t have access to a clean water source close to home. But as we all know, water is essential for life and good health. That’s why we are challenging ourselves this March to make water our only beverage. We’ll be improving our health, while raising money to help more people enjoy the benefits of clean water.

WaterAid will reach everyone, everywhere with clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene within a generation. This vision inspires us, and we hope it inspires you too.

Please donate to our fundraising page to contribute to WaterAid’s amazing work. For just $70, WaterAid could provide clean water to a child, while $350 could help provide clean water to a family.

https://fundraise.wateraid.org.au/fundraisers/Billi-Australia

The more people that know about WaterAid, the more we can achieve together. Please spread the word by sharing our fundraising page with your friends and family. Thank you in advance for your generosity, it means a lot!