With nearly three decades in the appliance industry, Iain brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Cooks & Company team. As Operations Manager and a key member of our appliance specialist group, he plays an important role in ensuring our projects run smoothly. He brings not only an encyclopaedic knowledge of high-end brands but also a deep understanding of how appliances integrate seamlessly into luxury kitchen design. Known for his sharp eye, candid advice, and passion for innovation, Iain has helped shape the appliance offering our clients trust today. We asked Iain a series of questions about his journey, the changes he’s seen, and where the industry is headed — here’s what he had to say:
Looking back to when you started, how has the appliance side of the business evolved over the decades?
It’s changed beyond all recognition. The variety of brands and product options available today is immense compared to when I started. The biggest game-changer has undoubtedly been the rise of the internet. When I first began, we placed orders using fax machines and carbon paper!
What does a typical day look like for you at Cooks & Company?
That’s one of the best things about working here – no two days are ever the same. We work with an extensive range of brands and serve a very diverse client base, which keeps things fast-paced, dynamic, and always interesting.
How do you ensure that our appliance offering integrates seamlessly with the bespoke kitchen designs our team creates?
From the very first showroom visit, clients are introduced to both a kitchen designer and an appliance specialist. This collaborative approach ensures that both the aesthetics and functionality are aligned. With our diverse selection of brands, we can tailor every aspect of the kitchen and appliance pairing to suit the individual client’s needs.
From your perspective, what have been the biggest game-changers in appliance technology over the past 28 years?
There have been quite a few! Neff’s Slide&Hide oven door stands out, as does Fisher & Paykel’s dishwasher drawer system. The Quooker boiling water tap was a real innovation too. More recently, the integration of steam cooking into built-in appliances has brought restaurant-level performance into people’s homes.
You’ve seen the business grow and adapt through all kinds of changes. What do you think has been key to Cooks & Company’s longevity and success?
Without a doubt, it’s the leadership and values instilled by our Managing Director, Peter. He built the business on a foundation of traditional customer service values – combining honest advice, competitive pricing, and a truly personal experience. That ethos continues to guide everything we do.
With so much experience, what advice do you give to customers who are just starting to explore high-end appliances?
I always recommend starting by listing out your priorities – what really matters to you in your kitchen. From there, we can balance design aspirations with technical requirements and then identify the best value across the market to deliver on both form and function.
AGA has a unique customer base – from traditional country kitchens to contemporary spaces. How have you seen customer expectations around AGA evolve in recent years, especially with the electric models like the eR7 and eR3?
AGA has a wonderfully loyal following, but like all great brands, it has had to evolve. As homes, energy solutions, and lifestyles change, so too have AGAs – the newer electric models are more flexible and energy-conscious, appealing to a much broader range of customers than ever before.
Can you recall a moment in your time here that stands out – maybe a particularly impressive kitchen, a huge project, or even just a funny memory from years gone by?
There are far too many to count – though a few are probably best kept off the record! One that stands out is the largest retail appliance order I’ve ever handled, worth over £125,000.
Working on Guy Phoenix’s “Hermitage” project was another personal highlight – an extraordinary home and a wonderfully charismatic client. I’ve also had the privilege of working with several well-known chefs and public figures over the years, which is always quite exciting!
Looking ahead, what trends do you think will define the high-end appliance space – whether it’s smart technology, energy efficiency, or new cooking methods?
I believe we’ll see a continued focus on energy efficiency, alongside increasing integration of smart home technology. Wi-Fi connectivity and app-based controls are already transforming the way people interact with their kitchens – and that’s only going to grow.
QUICK-FIRE ROUND
First appliance you ever sold? Siemens washing machine
Gas or induction? Induction
Biggest shift in appliance trends since the ’90s? The Internet revolution
The most underrated kitchen gadget? The extractor fan
Favourite AGA colour of all time? Fire engine red
One appliance you couldn’t live without at home? Quooker tap
Most exciting product launch this year? Gaggenau’s new Expressive cooking models
Showroom guilty pleasure — appliance you love showing off most? Probably the 60” wolf range or the Lacanche Vezelay
And finally… what’s cooking in your kitchen tonight? A home made curry
