Much loved bathroom agent Rick Morel passes away
It is with great sadness to announce the passing of a renowned industry personality, Richard (Rick) Morel after a long illness.
Rick was the owner of a long-standing industry bathroom agency called CMA and over the years had been connected with many of the leading brands that we all celebrate today. Instantly, recognisable as a larger than life character (quite literally), he will be remembered by his friends for his humour and ability to share stories when meeting up at exhibitions and events as much as his outstanding industry connections and knowledge.
He joined his father in 1985 as an agent working with Gainsborough Showers, Aqualona (bathroom accessories) and Ariston steel baths, where he gained the nickname Rick the Bath.
Within five years the business had grown sufficiently that he needed help and subsequently was joined by Richard Moffatt and a few years later his dad retired. At this point CMA also ran a team of 4 merchandisers calling on the large sheds and DIY stores on a weekly basis taking orders.
Rick’s heart however, was always in top-end showroom products. He loved this side of the business and selling into the West End where he did most of his work and made many great friends. Rick was the first agent for Salamander Pumps, a company that he still represented up until two years ago.
During his 42 years as an agent, other companies that he worked for read like a ´who´s who’ of the bathroom industry including:
Salamander Engineering, Midland Stom, Amptec, Trianco, PH Pool, Koralle, Dornbracht , Crosswater.
Italian manufacturers in particular appreciated Rick´s skills, effectiveness and reliability and subsequently, over the course of the last 15 years, Rick had become a niche, go-to agent for many Italian brands including: Agape, Fantini, Tubes Radiators and Karasan.
Richard Moffat commented, “Having worked so closely with Rick for more than 30 years, life will never be quite the same again. I learnt so much and shared so many experiences both in the UK and abroad. My thoughts and sympathies go to Rick´s bereaved wife Jackie and children at this sad time.”
Industry friend Rob Nicholls, Chairman of PR consultancy Publicity Engineers said, “Rick was a one-off, a totally unique character, remembered by many as a bon-viveur, rugby player and astute businessman. Those a little closer to him though, will remember him for being a loving dedicated family man, with great faith and amazing fortitude which he demonstrated over and over again during his last few years. He will be a huge loss.”
FOR FURTHER DETAILS CONTACT:
Rob Nicholls at rob@publicityengineers.com or tel 07834 338449