Founded in 1979 and operating from its Harrogate facility, Taplanes specialised in designing and producing sectional modular shower and bathroom pods made from 100% recyclable polypropylene. The company supplied durable, watertight, and easy-to-install bathroom solutions for residential, student accommodation, and hotel projects.

The assets are being offered via online auction, closing on 12th November 2025, and include a wide range of CNC and traditional woodworking machinery, plastic manufacturing equipment, commercial vehicles, a forklift truck, and raw materials and component stock.

Among the 431 lots available are:

·         2015 SCM Morbidelli Universal 3622 CNC Machining Centre

·         Palmatic Handling Systems Crane System

·         2006 Putsch Meniconi SVP 133 S Wall Saw

·         2018 MAN TGX Rigid Sleeper Truck

·         2021 Jungheinrich EFG 220 Electric Forklift Truck

·         Tools, gas welding machines and more.

Andrew Cromack, Director at BPI Asset Advisory, commented: “This instruction represents an opportunity for manufacturers and production businesses to acquire high-quality woodworking and plastic fabrication machinery, vehicles, and material stock from a respected modular pod producer. We anticipate strong interest from buyers in both the manufacturing and construction supply sectors.”

The auction closes on 12th November 2025, with viewing available Tuesday 11th November by appointment only. To arrange, please contact carol.allen@bpiaa.com. The full catalogue and bidding details are available via BPI’s online auction platform

The Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva, a prominent fixture in Geneva’s luxury hospitality scene since its opening in 1885, will soon undergo a visionary transformation. Prior to this, everything from its 412 elegant rooms and suites to its renowned restaurants, spa, and even the grand 1,400-seat theatre will be up for auction. Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, with sweeping views of Mont Blanc, the Jet d’Eau fountain, and the French Alps, the hotel has been a beloved destination for global travellers, cementing its status as one of Switzerland’s leading luxury hotels.

Over the course of four days, thousands of unique lots will be offered for sale, including furnishings, artwork, and accessories from guest bedrooms along with assets from the hotel’s restaurants, banqueting halls, commercial kitchens, terrace furniture, and even the contents of the renowned Théâtre du Léman.

A Comprehensive Sell-Off Across Every Corner

The Fairmont hotel temporarily closed its doors at the end of 2024 to undergo a major transformation starting in Q2 2025. Once complete, the revitalized property will stand as an emblem of forward-thinking design and sustainable luxury, destined to become a new icon in Geneva, for both the local community and global visitors alike.

Every part of the hotel, from the basement to the penthouse, is being put up for auction. Thousands of items spanning guest rooms, lobbies, and kitchens will be available for purchase, as well as the equipment and furnishings of specialized areas such as the spa, fitness centre, conference spaces, and even a 1,328-seat theatre. With such sweeping scope, potential buyers from various industries—beyond just hotels—have plenty to explore. 

Key items include:

• Guestroom and Lobby Furniture: Luxury beds, chairs, tables, plush armchairs, desks, mirrors, lamps and more, ready to revitalise any space.

• Conference & Banqueting: Meeting and events furniture, AV, sound equipment, DJ and nightclub sound and lighting systems, hundreds of banquet tables and chairs.

• Commercial Kitchen Assets: Pots, pans, plates and cutlery, industrial-grade ovens, and dishwashers perfect for caterers and restaurant owners.

• Theatre Equipment: Every piece of the 1,328-seat capacity venue, from seats to stage lighting, is part of the sale, marking the largest theatre sale in history.

• Spa and Fitness Equipment: Top-notch pieces from the spa and fitness areas, including premium fitness machines and luxurious spa furniture.

• Office Equipment and Artworks: Desks, chairs, furntiure and artwork suited to numerous office spaces and galleries.

• Outdoor and Terrace Furniture: High-end designers pieces ideal for outdoor settings from bars to restaurants and private gardens.

• Laundry and Back-of-House Gear: Luxury linens, and bedding along with Industrial washers, dryers, and supportive hotel operations equipment such the generators and air conditioning systems.

Every one of these items has been meticulously maintained, offering buyers unbeatable quality at incredible value.

A Dual Record-Breaking Event

This auction isn’t just gaining attention because of the scale of the assets—it’s an event of global importance. With over 1,328 theatre seats included, this isn’t only Europe’s largest hotel contents sale; it also earns the distinction of being the largest theatre auction in history. These two records combined make this an unprecedented moment, one unlikely to be repeated anytime soon.

Sustainability at the Heart of the Auction

This initiative isn’t just about volume—it’s about giving these assets a second life. Rather than demolishing or discarding these items, the auction emphasises sustainability by enabling extensive recycling and repurposing. Hotels, restaurants, offices, caterers, gyms, spas, and countless others now have a unique chance to acquire premium assets without manufacturing new goods, reducing waste and supporting the circular economy, whilst at the same time having the foods readily available and at prices a fraction of their real value.

For Simon Rose, the auction director, this auction is more than just a sale: “it is a landmark event that will capture the attention of operators, collectors and fans from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of the hotel’s history.” 

Why This Auction is Unmissable

There are several reasons why this event is generating such buzz across industries:

• Unrivaled Scale: This is Europe’s largest hotel content sale, meaning thousands of high-quality, unique items are ready for immediate use. No lead times, no delays, and no additional negotiations.

• Unbeatable Value: Auctions provide opportunities to acquire premium goods at exceptional prices—this event is no different. High-end hotel and theatrical equipment will be available far below typical market costs.

• Universal Appeal While the auction is built around a hotel’s closure, the assets being sold are appealing to a diverse range of industries. From restaurants needing new dining furniture to offices hunting for administration tools, this event opens doors to countless sectors.

A Hotel Steeped in Luxury and Design

This record-breaking auction is the result of a remodelling effort that follows a rich history of high-end design. The hotel, located directly on Lake Geneva with a stunning view of Mont Blanc, has long been a beacon of elegance. The last major renovation, completed in 2018, was guided by Tarek Hegazy and Living Design Stockholm. It included updates to the guestrooms, corridors, fitness spaces, indoor pool, and spa, in addition to the redesign of Europe’s largest suite (spanning a jaw-dropping 1,080 m²).

Now, the property is set to undergo a transformation by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, further cementing its legacy as one of Europe’s most iconic destinations.

Don’t Miss Out

Whether a hotelier, small business operator, restaurateur, theatre owner, SPA operator or simply someone looking for one-of-a-kind furniture and equipment, this auction is a rare chance to obtain world-class pieces at incredible value. The opportunity to own a piece of such an iconic establishment, while supporting sustainable practices, makes this event unmissable.

Mark your calendars and get ready to bid. Legacy items, luxurious craftsmanship, and a second life for incredible assets await.

Pro Auction, the specialist hospitality sector auction house, will conduct the sale. The Fairmont auction will take place at the hotel from 17-20 February 2025, commencing at 10.00 CET each day. Online bidding will also be available via a live webcast simultaneously Viewing is by arrangement with the auctioneers from February 10, 2025.

Fellows’ upcoming Designer Collection has over 400 lots made up of over 66 brands. Names such as Cartier, Bottega Veneta, and Gucci feature amongst the fabulous range of designer. Following February’s record-breaking result for a limited-edition Pumpkin Dot Neverfull MM handbag, there is another alluring selection of Louis Vuitton pieces in this sale.

Sophie Higgs, Designer Collection specialist at Fellows Auctioneers, said: “When I met with Marielle in preparation of this collaboration, I was very impressed with the Bagpads. I found them to be a unique product with the added quality and luxuriousness that I didn’t expect. Many of the cushions were so soft that I would be inclined to not only use them in my bags, but also to decorate my sofa.”

I am looking forward to showcasing a selection of items form our latest Designer Collection auction. Everyone is welcome to come along with their own handbags to test out the Bagpad products or receive a free valuation whist perusing the handbags on view.”

Selected highlights from the sale can be viewed here: https://we.tl/t-lU7cbFoI0P

The Designer Collection is now available to view online and in person at the following times:

26 April 2019 11am – 4pm (Birmingham)
27 April 2019 11am – 4pm (Birmingham)
29 April 2019 8.30am – 11am (Birmingham)

For more information or additional images please contact Liam Bolland on 0121 212 5500, or email liam@fellows.co.uk

 All lots featured in Fellows’ auctions are available to view online at www.fellows.co.uk Alternatively, contact Fellows on 0121 212 2131 to request a catalogue.

 Founded in 1876, Fellows Auctioneers has their Head Office and Saleroom located in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, with a Valuations Office in London’s Mayfair.

 For a full list of upcoming auctions and auction catalogues visit www.fellows.co.uk  Fellows can be found on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @fellowsauctions

NB: All hammer prices are correct at time of publication; however, they can be subject to change.
Additional information

 Founded in Birmingham in 1876, Fellows are a family-run firm of auctioneers and valuers. They hold weekly sales with specialist watch and jewellery auctions becoming increasingly popular.

 In 2018, Fellows were delighted to be named the leading UK regional auctioneer by the Antiques Trade Gazette.

 Fellows opened its brand new London office in 2018, located at 29 Charles Street, Mayfair, London, W1J 5DT. Click here to view more.

For more information about Fellows Auctioneers, please visit the website here.

Original source prfire.com 

Each piece of furniture is handcrafted using time-honoured techniques, while every bolt, every stitch, and every detail is given its due share of time and craftsmanship. No two products are ever alike and each piece is imbued with its own distinct personality. According to the auctioneers, there is a character, a soul to what they do; an authenticity to the product because of the materials they use, the designs they have and the link to heritage and antiques. It is completely unique.

Auctioneer, Simon Rose commented: “We’re thrilled and excited to be bringing this opportunity to the public. Rarely has there been an auction opportunity which provides so much scope to acquire the very best of British luxury furniture, at a price which is within reach of everybody. From small bedside tables to large sofas, there are significant savings to be made at the event.”

Simon continued: “With over 1500 ex showroom pieces set to be included, Pro Auction are confident there’ll be something to catch the eye of everyone. Whether it’s contemporary wall art or more traditional solid wood dining pieces, bidders will be looking to take home a truly British brand with an unquestioned pedigree.”

The unique auction opportunity is set to take place over a three day period on 29 & 30th November and 1st December commencing at 11am daily from the sale rooms of Pro Auction at 22 – 26 Druid Street London Bridge London SE1 2EY. The auction will offer over 1500 pieces by both by a traditional auction approach and online bidding. For further information or to register interest in this one-off opportunity to acquire luxury furniture at hugely discounted prices, please visit https://goo.gl/fMMcXC or alternatively call 01761 414000.

About Pro Auction: Pro Auction are a leading London based auction company and organiser of the event, with previous auctions for luxury sales such as The Mandarin Oriental, The Lanesborough, Cravt Original and Rutland Gate Knightsbridge. Over 1500 items of luxury, high-end furniture and furnishings are set to be included. The event will provide an opportunity for members of the public to acquire interior design pieces that would normally be out of an affordability range. The Pro Auction event will offer the items unreserved at Pro Auction at 22 – 26 Druid Street London Bridge London SE1 2EY and online at : https://goo.gl/fMMcXC