The kbbreview Podcast

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, I'm Andy Davies and this is a very special bonus episode of the show.Today we're meeting appliance brand Midea and if you're unfamiliar with them you won't be for long. They are, simply, one of the biggest appliance companies in the world. Based in China they are an enormous global player and their UK operation, established just four years ago, is now ramping up at a massive pace.In particular for kitchen specialists they're building not just the Midea brand itself but also Teka - a brand with loads of heritage that they bought last year and many of you will already know.Lots of you will get your first chance to see what they're all about at kbb Birmingham in March where they are going all in with a big stand so we're really looking forward to seeing what they come up and I'm sure you will too. So, today we're meeting head of marketing Julia Livett and kitchen retail national account manager, Ben Day to get a bit more background on plans, strategies and ambitions and what Midea is all about.You can also find more about Midea at midea.com/uk and you can meet them on stand G80 at kbb Birmingham.This episode is sponsored content Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast with Andy Davies – and this week it's a full-on industry face-off.Kitchens vs bathrooms. Battle lines are drawn. Sides are taken. (Winner… technically undecided.)Trevor and Liz fly the flag for kitchens. Justine stands firm for bathrooms. Nick sits somewhere in the middle, doing a bit of both. We grill them all: Why don't kitchen retailers sell bathrooms? Why steer clear of kitchens? And what are the real-world pros, cons and commercial realities of doing both?But beneath the playful rivalry lies a serious question for today's tougher, shifting market: is diversification no longer optional?From utility rooms and media centres to home offices and full interior design, we explore whether expanding your offer is the key to future-proofing your retail business or whether being a true specialist in just one is the answer.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the next special bonus episode of our Rising Star series, in association with Blum. Host George Dean meets Laila Kamiabi, business manager at Haus of Design, who is already gaining hands-on experience across operations, marketing, HR and project management as she prepares to one day take over the business from her father.Laila shares how she's embraced a “learn by doing” approach, from running the studio's social media and YouTube channel to understanding every aspect of the company's day-to-day operations. She also reflects on building confidence in front of the camera, expanding her skillset into design, and taking proactive steps to prepare for leading the studio in the future — a fascinating insight into the making of one of KBB retail's rising stars. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, and yes this week it's the obligatory episode all about A.I.It's the technology that everyone is talking about, and it's very quickly permeating all aspects of our lives but what do our panel of kbb retailers think about it? They may not be experts but do the possibilities scare them or excite them? From what they know, how could it be useful in their day-to-day business and how urgently do they think they need to learn more?And, probably most importantly, are there any parts of their business where they wouldn't want AI involved?It's a snapshot of opinions, concerns and revelations from our regulars Trevor, Nick and Liz.And if you're looking for the link to Nick's A.I. Bootcamp course then here it is...Or more nationwide information is available here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's another special episode dedicated to the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026! And this time, host Matt Baker is out and about at the judging days for the design categories - where the finalists get to present their shortlisted projects to the judges in person..So you'll hear from both kitchen and bathroom design judges as they explain why this stage is so important, what they take away from the experience and what their top tips are for anyone who wants to enter next year.As always, a HUGE thank you to our 2026 Awards Podcast Partner, Sonas Bathrooms for all their support.And if you haven't booked your tickets yet for the legendary kbbreview Retail & Design Awards event then get a move on or you'll be too late! It's on March 2nd at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole - that's the Monday night of kbb Birmingham - and you can book directly at kbbreview.com/awards.See you there! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The kbbreview Podcast we're talking about the relentless battle every retailer faces with unexpected problems that pop up at exactly the worst possible moment - when time is tight, pressure is high, and the margin for error is basically zero.Yes, we're all about firefighting today.Host Andy Davies is joined by regular retailers Trevor, Justine, Nick and Liz, who come armed with their best stories (and by best, we obviously mean the worst). Together, they dig into the reality of constant crisis management: the toll it takes on even the best-laid plans, how much contingency you really need to build into projects, and how to keep clients calm when things start unravelling.If you've ever felt like retail is one long emergency, this one's for you.

It's the next special bonus episode of our Rising Star series, in association with our very good friends at Blum.Host George Dean meets Mariam Susan Joseph, a former architect who has risen rapidly through the ranks at Simply Bathrooms, earning two promotions in just her first year.Mariam shares how her architectural training, attention to detail and hunger to learn helped her transition into bathroom design after relocating to the UK, as well as her role in producing highly technical designs and contributing to the business's recent rebrand. A brilliant insight into the mindset behind one of the KBB industry's emerging talents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all want more sales – but in the world of independent KBB retailing, is “sales” still a dirty word?In this episode, Andy Davies asks whether retailers are too quick to badge themselves as designers rather than salespeople, and whether that mindset is helping or hindering business performance. Design may be the most creative and rewarding part of the job, but does it sometimes get in the way of closing deals, protecting margin, and making the business truly profitable?Joined by regular panelists Trevor Scott, Liz Pantling-Jones, Nick Warrington and Justine Bullock, we're diving into whether sales techniques should carry the same weight as design skills, how creativity can be a genuine sales USP, and whether independents have unfairly distanced themselves from “sales” thanks to the tactics of the multiples.Do some retailers prioritise design theory over commercial reality?How do you measure the true success of a designer?Are time, value and margin are really being managed as well as they should be?Sales or design? The panel gets properly stuck into where the balance really lies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus episode of The kbbreview Podcast, host Matt Baker goes behind the scenes of judging for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026, with an exclusive look at what really goes on in the business categories.Sponsored by our awards Podcast Partner 2026 Sonas Bathrooms, this episode is part of our run-up to the awards ceremony on Monday, March 2 at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole. Between now and the big night, we'll be bringing you more bonus episodes that dig into the awards and celebrate the very best talent our industry has to offer.This month, we're lifting the curtain on the famously robust judging process as Matt is joined by two judges from the business categories:Helen Lord, Co-founder and director of RehomeMike Lloyd, Managing director of Wetrooms OnlineThey share their personal approach to judging, what really makes an entry stand out, and practical tips for anyone thinking of entering the awards in the future. If you've ever wondered how winners are decided, this one's for you.Tickets are still available for the awards night! If you're already heading to kbb Birmingham, why not go all in and join the industry's biggest party?

Season 17 of The kbbreview Podcast continues with a big question and an even bigger hypothetical.Host Andy Davies is joined by the retailer Fantastic Four for their first episode of 2026 - Trevor Scott from RFK, Liz Pantling-Jones from Lima Kitchens, Nick Warrington from Stuart J Warrington and Justine Bullock from The Tap EndThey're diving straight into the fundamentals most small business owners know they should focus on, but rarely get time to - strategy, growth and investment.So here's the challenge. If someone handed you £100,000 for your KBB retail business tomorrow, what would you actually do with it?People, marketing, technology, expansion… or finally fixing that leaky roof? We all say we want money to invest, but how much thought do we really give to how we'd spend it?Have you booked your tickets for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026? Find out more at kbbreview.com/awards Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rising Star Spotlight: Amy HartlandIt's the next special bonus episode of our Rising Star series of episodes in association with Blum.Host George Dean meets Amy Hartland, showroom manager at Ashford Kitchens & Interiors Amy's unplanned route into the KBB industry led to a key leadership role, where she now oversees sales, marketing, admin and project coordination. We discuss her role in improving lead management systems, building a strong social media presence, and keeping a busy retail business running smoothly behind the scenes.An insightful listen for KBB retailers focused on smarter processes, people management and sustainable growth.

What happens when a mass-market retail heavyweight takes the reins of one of the UK's most premium bathroom brands?In this episode of The kbbreview Podcast, host Andy Davies sits down with Dean Weston, the new Managing Director of CP Hart, to talk leadership, luxury and life at the top end of the market.With a CV spanning Magnet, MFI, Habitat, Bathstore and more, Weston knows retail inside out. But as he explains, stepping into CP Hart under new ownership and in a challenging market is less about reinvention and more about precision. From efficiency and profitability to brand protection and showroom expansion, Weston shares how CP Hart plans to grow without diluting what makes it special.Candid, insightful and refreshingly honest, this is a must-listen for anyone interested in premium retail, strategic leadership and the realities of running a high-end brand in a tough trading environment.Have you booked your tickets yet for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026? Go to kbbreview.com/awards for everything you need to know. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're kicking off 2026 - and our first episode of the year - with a heavyweight interview and a true industry icon. We're beginning the new season by going deep with Pat Riley, founder of Bathroom Brands.Home to names including Crosswater, Burlington, Britton and Showerwall, Bathroom Brands has been through a bit of a self-confessed rough patch and, after stepping back from the business in 2020, Pat - alongside Crosswater founder Dave Hance - has returned to the helm to get the business back on track.Pat speaks openly about what went wrong, why the founders felt they had to come back, and how they're personally leading the turnaround. He shares clear, practical insight into rebuilding trust, refocusing on customer service, and striking the right balance between new technology and old-school, face-to-face relationships.Honest, energetic and forward-looking, this is a fascinating listen for anyone in the KBB sector.We also recommend catching up with our Dave Hance episode back in December,And don't forget to book your tickets for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026! Click here for the info you need.This episode is sponsored content Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The moment has arrived...The full shortlist for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026 is revealed exclusively on The kbbreview Podcast — the very first place to discover whether you're a finalist in the most prestigious awards in independent kitchen and bathroom retail.Every designer, retailer, showroom, installer, rising star and unsung hero named in this episode is now in contention for one of the industry's most sought-after trophies, to be awarded at a spectacular live event this March.And this is not just for finalists.On Monday 2nd March, almost 900 of the industry's most powerful and influential figures will come together at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, on the opening night of kbb Birmingham, for the biggest night in KBB.Be in the room. Be part of the moment.Book your tickets now at kbbreview.com/awards and secure your place at the industry's defining celebration.The kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026 podcast series is proudly supported by our Podcast Partner, Sonas Bathrooms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the last of our very special Insights 2026 series of daily episodes where we talk to leaders at some of the biggest brands in the kitchen and bathroom industry.We're getting their candid evaluations and conclusions for business in 2025 and seeing what their thoughts, predictions and plans are for 2026 - a proper snapshot of where the sector is as we head into a new year.And we're finishing up with one of the most well-known names in the kitchen industry - Aga Rangemaster. It is going through a resurgence under new MD Dominic Worsley thanks to a focus on the power of the brand and what it really means for customers - and that's a lesson even the smallest retailer can learn from.So what plans does Dominic have for 2026, what are his thoughts on an unpredictable and crowded appliance market, and just how important are independent kitchen studios?We actually did a full profile interview episode with Dominic a couple of months ago so if you want to find out more about his plans we really recommend going back to listen to that - you can find all the links here.It's all in this final Insights 2026 episode and if you've missed any of the others, I really do recommend going back and having a listen. You can find them at kbbreview.com/podcast or simply search 'kbbreview' wherever you get your podcasts.And, of course, you find out more about Aga Rangemaster at agarangemaster.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Andy Davies continues the daily Insight 2026 series of deep-dives with leaders from some of the biggest brands in the UK kitchen and bathroom market uncovering their honest assessments of 2025 and their expectations, predictions and plans for the year ahead.In this episode, Wes McKenna, group sales and marketing director at Uform, joins the conversation. After a challenging and unpredictable 2025, Wes shares why he believes steady recovery, meaningful innovation and standout service will define 2026 - and why those themes matter for every business, big or small.It's a focused, top-level snapshot of where the market is heading as we approach a new year so don't miss it!Find out more about Uform at uform.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, host Andy Davies explores the big design shifts of 2025 and the emerging trends for 2026 with Aimee Fletcher, product and development manager at Egger UK.From textures to tones to the tactile details influencing future furniture design, Aimee lifts the lid on how Egger helps steer the industry's creative direction and what retailers and designers should be ready for next year.Find out more about Egger at egger.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Andrew Davies sits down with Danny Lay from Caple for an in-depth discussion on 2025 and what's ahead in 2026, focusing on appliances, distribution, and the trends shaping the kitchen sector.With decades of experience at the forefront of both industries, Danny shares invaluable insights and practical perspectives that every business can learn from.Learn more about Caple at caple.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this double-header episode of our continuing Insight 2026 series, host Andrew Davies chats with MD Steve Breen and marketing director Ruth Davies from VitrA, for a frank look at 2025 and the company's ambitious plans for 2026.From market realities to big-picture strategy, this candid conversation offers a unique snapshot of a leading global brand in the UK kitchen and bathroom sector - with a surprising personal twist about Christmas presents you won't see coming.Discover more about VitrA at vitra.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Andrew Davies sits down with Simeon Gabriel, UK managing director of Hettich, for a sharp look at how 2025 has played out and what the industry should prepare for in 2026.With Hettich's worldwide perspective - and Simeon's knack for cutting through the noise - this episode delivers practical, thought-provoking takeaways for businesses of every size. A clear, top-level view of where the sector stands as we move into a new year.You can find out more about Hettich here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this first episode of our special of Insights 2026 series of episodes, Andy Davies sits down with industry leaders for their frank take on their evaluation of 2025 and what's on the horizon for 2026.We start with Dave Hance from Bathroom Brands. After a turbulent year, he and co-founder Pat Riley are back at the helm, injecting fresh energy into one of the UK's most influential bathroom suppliers. Dave offers a candid, honest look at the company's reset, its ambitions, and where the business goes next.A sharp, top-level snapshot of the sector as we head into a new year.Find out more about Bathroom Brands at bathroombrands.com.This is sponsored content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the final full episode of 2025 and host Andy Davies is joined by our resident retailers Trevor Scott from RFK, Nick Warrington from Stuart J Warrington and Liz Pantling-Jones from Lima Kitchens to unpack last week's budget, ask whether 2025 was really as bad as it felt, and look ahead to what 2026 might have in store.There might also be a cheeky Christmas quiz at the end...But fear not, kbbreview podcast fans, this isn't the end, it's the beginning of something special. We're launching a daily run of bonus episodes featuring leaders from some of the biggest brands in the industry, giving their verdict on 2025 and predictions for 2026. The first drops TOMORROW (Friday, December 5th), then every weekday through to Monday, December 15th.And then comes the big one: on Tuesday, December 16th we reveal the finalists for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026.Think of it as your kbbreview podcast advent calendar… kicking off right now.And don't forget, tickets are on sale now for the legendary kbbreview Retail & Design Awards on March 2nd at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole - that's the Monday night of the KBB show. Join around 900 of the industry's top retailers, designers, suppliers and influencers… and Andy.Everything you need to know is at kbbreview.com/awards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]Meet Rising Star Max Hitchcox of Point 5 Kitchens in London.In this latest instalment of our special Rising Star mini-series, George Dean introduces you to another young name set to shape the future of the KBB industry. This week's guest is Max Hitchcox, the articulate designer helping drive the growth of Point 5 Kitchens - the retailer many of you may remember from our “Adopted Retailer” journey as it opened its second showroom.Think of this as a backdoor sequel to that story, as Max reveals how his role is woven into the day-to-day running of the new space and what fuels his ambition as one of this year's Rising Star finalists.Proudly supported by Blum, we're shining a light on the next generation of kitchen, bedroom and bathroom talent — and Max is absolutely one to watch.We'll be revealing the overall winner at the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026 event on March 2nd at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole - that's the Mon day night of the KBB show. The make sure you don't miss out on the biggest night in the kbb calendar, book your tickets now at kbbreview.com/awards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special awards edition of The kbbreview Podcast, host Matt Baker kicks off the countdown to the 2026 kbbreview Retail & Design Awards.Entries have officially closed and judging is under way, with the all-important finalists reveal coming right here on the podcast before Christmas.Before that, we're shining a spotlight on our 2026 Awards Podcast Partner Sonas Bathrooms. Matt sits down with CEO Richard Sloan for a brisk “how's business?” catch-up and a look at the real conversations happening with retailers as Sonas hits the road across the UK.With bonus awards episodes coming thick and fast between now and the big night on March 2nd, this is your perfect warm-up... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Rising Star finalist Holly Magee — the creative newcomer shaking things up at Elysee Kitchens and Interiors in Ascot.In this episode of The kbbreview Podcast, host George Dean continues our special mini-series celebrating the bright young talents shortlisted for the Rising Star category in the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026.Holly may have only been with Elysee for a year, but she's already made a remarkable impact — juggling projects, driving creativity, and proving exactly why the future of the KBB industry is in safe, and very capable, hands.We've once again partnered with Blum to shine a spotlight on the next generation of retail and design leaders, and Holly's story is one you won't want to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The kbbreview Podcast, host Andy Davies is back (slightly croaky but fighting on!) alongside our full expert panel — Trevor Scott from RFK, Liz Pantling-Jones from Lima Kitchens, Justine Bullock from The Tap End and Nick Warrington from Stuart J Warrington — for a brilliantly lively and brutally honest discussion.We're diving into one of the industry's biggest headaches: what really happens when products fail on site or deliveries turn up damaged.Is it actually possible to check goods properly under the time pressures suppliers give you? Do you get the support you need when things go wrong — or does it feel like no one believes you? And the big one… who should pick up the cost when disaster strikes?If you've ever lost hours of your life wrestling with faulty products, replacement claims or damaged deliveries, this episode is for you. Packed with real-world insight, practical frustrations, and a few laughs along the way, it's a must-listen for anyone in the kitchen and bathroom industry.Hit play and join the conversation! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The kbbreview Podcast, we're rolling out the red carpet and tearing open the gold envelopes because it's all about awards.Host Andy Davies is joined by his all-star panel of retailers - Trevor Scott from RFK in Rugby, Justine Bullock from The Tap End near Cardiff, Nick Warrington from Stuart J Warrington in Macclesfield and Liz Pantling-Jones from Lima Kitchens in Milton KeynesAnd they're digging into the big questions:Why should you bother entering awards in the first place?How do you craft a winning entry that stands out?And once you've won (or even just been shortlisted), how do you turn that into a prime marketing advantage?Of course, it's also a shameless plug for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026 because entries close at 5pm on Thursday November 13th! and you can check out all the categories and enter now at kbbreview.com/awards.This episode is proudly supported by our 2026 Awards Podcast Partner Sonas Bathrooms and you can find them at sonasbathrooms.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What makes a bathroom brand truly stand out? Andy Davies talks to Jorge Hernandez, Head of Design at Bathroom Brands, about how the power of differentiating by design drives the look and feel of Crosswater, Burlington, Britton, Clearwater, and the recently added Showerwall. They explore why great design at every price point isn't just about style, it's about helping retailers stand apart too.This episode is sponsored content Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pack your wheelie case and dig out that itinerary — this week on The kbbreview Podcast, host Andy Davies is joined by regulars Trevor Scott from RFK, Justine Bullock from The Tap End near Cardiff, Nick Warrington from Stuart J Warrington in Macclesfield and Liz Pantling-Jones from Lima Kitchens in Milton Keynes to talk all things supplier trips.Are these factory visits and overseas events really worth the time away from the business? Do they actually change how you see a brand — or are they just thinly disguised jollies and perks of the job?The team share the moments that genuinely changed their perception of a supplier, and their tips for making these trips truly worthwhile.And, what you all really want to hear, we hear their best, and worst, experiences - strategically shaved reps in Germany, dancing bears in Russia, soggy feet in Venice and getting gout from over-indulgence in Spain, we cover a LOT of ground in this one!It's all here in another lively, honest and slightly sleep-deprived episode of The kbbreview Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to The kbbreview Podcast! Host Andy Davies is joined as always by Trevor, Scott, Liz Pantling-Jones, Nick Warrington and Justine Bullock and they're digging into one of the most frustrating challenges facing independent KBB retailers right now - getting customers to actually commit.You've done the design work, nailed the presentation, and picked out the perfect products — but when it comes to signing on the dotted line the decision is delayed and delayed. So what's really behind this growing hesitation? Are clients genuinely nervous about money, or just lost in a fog of indecision? And more importantly, what can you actually do to move them from “thinking about it” to “let's do it”?In this episode, we unpack the psychology behind customer procrastination and explore whether this signals a deeper shift in buyer confidence — or simply a need for sharper sales skills. How do you balance being a trusted designer with being a confident closer? Where's the line between patience and persuasion?It's an honest, insightful, and occasionally heated discussion that every independent retailer will relate to. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a key supplier suddenly can't supply? Whether that's administration, serious supply chain issues, discontinuation of ranges or just human error it's a serious headache for the retailer.In this week's episode of The kbbreview Podcast, Andy Davies is joined by Trevor Scott, Justine Bullock, Nick Warrington and Liz Pantling-Jones to explore what to do when the unthinkable happens - from keeping projects on track and managing customer expectations to finding reliable replacements fast. They also share hard-won lessons on resilience, communication, and why you should never put all your eggs in one supplier basket. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this latest special Rising Star episode, sponsored by Blum, kbbreview's George Dean meets Jessica Liu - a young designer whose career has been anything but accidental. From early days sketching in art class to mastering the intricacies of kitchen design, Jessica's journey is one of focus, creativity, and determination.Now part of the close-knit team at Chisholm Design, she's already making her mark with projects that push her problem-solving skills to the limit - including a 400-year-old cottage where no wall was straight. Jessica shares how she embraces each challenge, what she loves about bespoke design, and why being part of a small, family-run studio brings her so much joy.Tune in to hear how Jessica Liu is shaping her career one beautifully considered kitchen at a time — and proving why she's a rising star in the industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Andy Davies swaps his loft for the lush surroundings of The Belfry as the kbbreview Podcast goes on tour to the annual KBSA Conference.Fresh from the conference sessions, Andy grabs a chat with Trevor Scott, Liz Pantling-Jones, and Nick Warrington to ask a crucial question at the the heart of these kind of events.Are independents better off going it alone, or is there real power in collaboration?From buying groups and franchises to the eternal debate over charging for designs, they dig into whether unity could strengthen independents' collective voice - or dilute their individuality Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to brands with long and illustrious histories it doesn't get more long and illustrious than Aga Rangemaster and in this is a very special bonus episode of the show we're talking to MD Dominic Worsley.The Aga is as English as Stephen Fry drinking tea, eating fish and chips wearing a bowler hat under a brolly in a drizzle and there are very few kitchen retailers out there that haven't stocked Rangemaster at some point in their existence. And now after a few uncertain years, they're having a resurgence under Worsley. Formerly of Miele and then CDA he has been tasked by parent company Middleby to put these classic brands back on the map.So how's he going to do it, what are his plans and where do independent kitchen studios sit in them? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What really makes a KBB business unique?In this week's episode Andy Davies is joined by Justine, Nick, Trevor and Liz to get to grips with differentiation – how you define it, why it matters, and whether those USPs you recite are genuinely unique.Is it all part of a carefully mapped-out strategy, or something that develops more naturally over time? How do you know if your USPs are really unique and how do you keep them fresh as the market evolves?We're getting to the heart of what sets one business apart from another in such a competitive industry.And don't forget about the ultimate USP – winning a kbbreview Retail & Design Awards. Entries for 2026 are now open! Go to kbbreview.com/awards for everything you need to know. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

‘Building an Award-Winning Entry'The kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026 are officially open for entries — but what does it really take to catch the judges' eye? In this special episode, host Matt Baker is joined by Andy Davies to break down everything you need to know about entering.We cover:The full line-up of categories (designers, retailers, showrooms, newcomers, installers, suppliers and the brand-new Unsung Hero Award).Our Top 10 Tips for writing a standout entry.Why it's totally free to enter — and how shortlists come with free tickets to the big night.Whether you're a seasoned contender or a first-time entrant, this episode is packed with insider advice to give your submission the best possible chance of success.

It's the third and final part of our look at how the industry has changed in the five years since Covid and we're doing it by looking at the relationships between retailers and the three vital groups of people without whom they wouldn't have a business. In the first two parts we talked about the consumer and the supplier and now, to round it all off we're looking at installers. How has that interaction changed? How much harder is it to find good ones? Can you afford good ones? and what role should and do retailers have in solving the skills crisis in installation. The full gang of Justine, Nick, Trevor and Liz are all here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The kbbreview Rising Star is back and we've teamed up with our good friends at Blum to shine a spotlight on the industry leaders of tomorrow.We're sitting down with apprentice cabinetmaker Lorenzo Dell'Aquila from Simon Taylor Furniture, whose skills are more than learned – they're inherited. With a father who once crafted high-end office furniture (and was even asked to furnish the BBC), Lorenzo's journey into cabinetry blends family tradition with his own passion for maths, art, and design.He shares how a bold phone call landed him a spot at the company, the lessons he's learned along the way, and how – just a few years in – he's already helping shape a special limited-edition collection for the company's 40th anniversary. We also talk mentorship, mastering craft at a young age, and what it means to build a career where precision meets creativity.You can find out more about Blum here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How have kitchen and bathroom suppliers changed in the last five years?The kbbreview Podcast is back with Andy Davies and our panel of regular retailers – Justine Bullock, Liz Pantling-Jones, Trevor Scott and Nick Warrington. Last week we explored how the consumer has changed since Covid, and this time we're flipping the focus: how have suppliers changed?From pricing and terms to service, support, marketing and partnerships, we dig into the shifts shaping today's market – and yes, expect a little healthy friction along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

✨ The Rising Star 2026 mini-series kicks off! ✨In this special episode of The kbbreview Podcast, news and features writer George Dean takes the mic to introduce the very first finalist in our 2026 Rising Star Awards – Rachelle Hawes from Et Lorem in Beaconsfield. We've teamed up with Blum to shine a spotlight on the brightest young talent in independent KBB retail, and over the coming months you'll meet all eight inspiring finalists. Want to know how Rachel found her way into the industry in one of the most unusual ways we've ever heard? Hit play and find out.If you want to nominate a Rising Star from your business or, indeed, nominate yourself, simply go to kbbreview.com/awards and head for the categories page. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New season, new format!The kbbreview Podcast is back for Season 16 and we're shaking things up. For the first time, host Andy Davies is joined by a regular panel of top retailers - Justine Bullock, Liz Pantling-Jones, Trevor Scott and Nick Warrington - bringing you weekly, frontline insights from the world of independent KBB retail.We're kicking off with a three-part series on how the industry has transformed since Covid. First up: the consumer. What do today's customers really want? How have their expectations shifted? Do they understand the true cost of a kitchen or bathroom - and how should you communicate with them?Plus, don't miss your chance to shine, the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026 are now open for entries. It's free, it's huge, and it could be you lifting one of those famous trophies. All the info you need is at kbbreview.com/awards Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We catch up with Katie to talk Showerwall, product development and life at its new home Bathroom Brands...Welcome to a very special bonus episode of The kbbreview Podcast, your host is Andy Davies and he met up with Katie Cope, Showerwall's current head, at the recent InstallerSHOW.This is a really interesting conversation for a couple of reasons - wall panelling is a proper growth area in the bathroom so where does she think it is and where it's going?And how is Showerwall doing since it was acquired by Bathroom Brands from IDS after that company went into administration?It was a big move for Bathroom Brands but wall panels are a growing market so you can see why it wanted to bring in a name like Showerwall to add to its already impressive portfolio.You can find out more about Showerwall at showerwall.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We meet the dynamic founders of one the fastest growing networks of kitchen retail franchises - and this one is 100% British. Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, your host is Andy Davies and he's out and about again, this time in Kirby-in-Ashfield just outside Nottingham.Andy is meeting brothers Scott and Ben Slater and their company Kesseler. A really interesting British kitchen manufacturer AND retailer. Started about 15 years ago as a straight supplier, they moved into their own retail franchising brand just a few years ago and now have nearly 20 showrooms across the country.As we have discussed on this very podcast before franchising is really building a significant momentum - Kutchenhaus, Nolte, Schmidt, and Magnet are just a few but Kesseler is slightly different as it is distinctly British.But that's not all, as we will here, they also run Online-Bedrooms.co.uk - an increasingly successful brand that sells fitted bedroom furniture, well, online.So how have they done it? What's their strategy? How do you build a retail brand from scratch? And how many Kesseler showrooms do they actually want?Such an interesting story from two real forward-thinkers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We meet the legendary interior designer to talk about his new kitchen range and his (very candid) thoughts on design and retail.Welcome to the kbbreview Podcast, your host is Andy Davies and today we're in a dreary old loft in South London and our challenge is to turn this empty bit of audio space into a fully-fledged podcast episode in just 45 minutes BUT we only have a budget of 20p, some MDF, a bag of screws and a router.And yes, today we're talking to Changing Rooms legend Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen - but of course we're doing him a massive disservice by limiting his extensive career to just that one show, no matter how impactful it was.He was - and is - an extremely accomplished interior designer of course, but he has also been educating the public about design on TV for, brace yourself, nearly 30 years - Changing Rooms started in 1996.After a bit of back-and-forth with manufacturers, he has just designed and launched his own kitchen range - called Quintessential - specifically for independent kitchen showrooms and, as you'll hear in this interview, he LOVES independent kitchen showrooms.This is, genuinely, a fantastic interview - mainly probably because it's actually Andy's kbbreview colleague George Dean doing it - and Laurence is as fabulous as you would expect but he is also incredibly candid and open about his thoughts on kitchen retail AND his previous endorsement deals with multiples - listen out for the bit where he gets slow hand-clapped on a plane thanks to his association with Moben.It's all brilliant stuff and it's clear that he really does love design and what it can achieve if done properly and with conviction so we really can't recommend this one highly enough!So over to George Dean and Lawrence Llewelyn-Bowen… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, your host as always is Andy Davies.Neptune has grown from a humble start in the 1990s to become one of the UK's most distinctive premium home and kitchen brands. With around 30 of its own showrooms and 80 more retail partners it has become one of the largest independent kitchen retail networks in the UK with little fanfare.And 'brand' is the most important word. Neptune, as far as co-founder John Sims-Hilditch is concerned, means something more than just a logo or a name, it is a philosophy that permeates every aspect of the business.Andy went to meet him at the company's impressive HQ and showroom just outside Swindon... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, your host is Andy Davies and this episode comes LIVE from the InstallerSHOW 2025. This is the third and final LIVE episode we recorded at the show and we're finishing with a question every single KBB showroom has on their mind– what should I be doing with social media? And in particular we're looking at small to medium sized showrooms that don't have social media teams and instead are trying to fit it into the rest of their very busy days. So if you're time-poor and have limited resource – this is the episode for you. What works and what doesn't?Where should you be spending that limited time and resource most effectivelyHow do you even know it's working? We have some top experts from the frontline to talk it all through, Kira Blume from Krantz Designs, Adam Jones from Cwtch Haus and Hayley Simmons from agency KBB Marketing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, your host is Andy Davies and we are LIVE at the InstallerShow 2025! This is our second of three shows we did at the show, and this is such an important one as its about an area that gets to the heart of what good kitchen and bathroom design is all about – the combination of style, aesthetics and practical solutions tailored to the needs of the individual, whatever they may be. And for those with needs that involve limitations in physicality or, as we will hear, cognitive ability, their designers and installers need to have the knowledge to be able to meet them. So, this is an area that is often called ‘accessible or multi-generational design' and we're scratching the surface a little bit with three top experts. Jo Jeyes from Joanne Jeyes Interiors - an interior designer specialising in dementiaAdam Thomas from the Adam Thomas Consultancy – specialist in all areas of accessible design, especially for wheelchair usersTony Passmore from The Passmore Group - specialist in accessible bathroom design and adaptation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, your host is Andy Davies and this episode was recorded LIVE today (June 24, 2025) at the InstallerSHOW 2025. Today we're talking about the most important topic of all at the moment – and that's the health of the kbb independent retailer market after a difficult couple of years. We did a snapshot survey of retailers a couple of months ago and the results were very mixed. Nearly a quarter said they're more confident than ever about the health of their business, while one in five said they are worried or extremely worried about the future of their business…Nearly half said they expected the market to get better before the end of the year, but 15% still say they think the market will get worse in 2025.So what's going on?Joining Andy today were top retailers, and friends of the show Trevor Scott from RFK in Rugby; Tina Riley from Modern Homes in Leamington Spa; Luke Wedgbury from Coalville Kitchens in Coalville and Liz Pantling-Jones from Lima Kitchens in Milton Keynes.We're talking....How their business is right nowHow increases in supplier prices are affecting their businessWhether supplier service levels have dropped as they manage their own costsHow consumers are behaving and whether they're decision making process continues to dragHow difficult it is to find good staff - including installersHow they're tackling the market head on to drive footfall and leads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, your host is Andy Davies and this is Episode Three of Season 15. We've got a great interview for you today - Phil Cole, the co-owner of Clive Christian. Founded in 1978 by Clive, it has become one of the few well-known kitchen brands in the ultra luxury arena - certainly in the traditional style. It's had it's ups and downs though as we will hear, going into administration in April 2022. That's where the then global sales director Phil Cole bought the company with Jim Denos - the owner of the US operations.So we'll hear all about that, how the luxury market is performing, what people expect for the kind of costs they deal in, how discretion is a valuable skill, finding skilled artisans, how to keep growing and lots and lots more.Andy met up with Phil at their flagship London showroom - which is actually a beautiful townhouse in Kensington and sat at a desk in a proper wood-panelled office...But first….We're only a WEEK away from the InstallerShow at the NEC where everyday at 1:30 on the Kitchen Of The Future stand we'll be recording a LIVE episode of this very podcast. On Tuesday the 24th we'll have a panel of top retailers discussing the health of the marketOn Wednesday 25th we've got some greatest accessible design experts giving us some proper top tipsOn Thursday 26th we're looking at how small to medium, sized KBB showrooms can use social media to grow their business.So that's 1:30 on the Kitchen Of The Future stand come along listen in, join in or just say hello.Go to installershow.com to register for your FREE ticket. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another very special bonus episode of The kbbreview Podcast, you host is Andy Davies and today we've got a really interesting conversation with Rob Ginsberg from hib.Until very recently it was better known as H.I.B and was founded by Rob's father Warren Ginsberg 35 years ago. But it has undergone a major rebrand - and subtle name change - to underline its status as one of the leading accessories suppliers in the bathroom industry.So new name, new brand, new ranges, new products and new philosophy and strategy all underpinned by decades of heritage, industry knowledge and experience.And Rob is going to talk us through it all.You can find out more about them at hib.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, your host as always is Andrew Davies and this is Episode Two of Season 15.This week we're building up to the InstallerSHOW - the huge exhibition of all things plumbing, heating, electrical, renewables AND, of course, kitchens and bathrooms.It's at the NEC on June 24th, 25th and 26th and it is packed with loads of product, obviously, but also networking, demos, seminars and training as well as, most importantly, LIVE recordings of this very podcast.You can come along and see us at 13:30 every day at the Kitchen Of The Future stage.The InstallerSHOW may be in its 10th year but it's still growing all the time. While the dedicated kitchen and bathroom section is relatively new it is also growing and this year it is packed with loads of top brands and content 100% relevant for KBB retailers.So we really do recommend coming along but if that isn't enough - and it almost certainly isn't - then we really recommend listening to this episode with the organiser MIke Costain. You can let him tell you all about the show, what's there, what to see, what's in it for you and what's next.You can register for your free ticket now, as well as find out everything you need to know, at installershow.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.