The kbbreview Podcast

Recruitment has become one of the biggest challenges facing kitchen and bathroom retailers.From finding skilled, reliable people to managing rising wage bills, National Insurance increases and tougher employment legislation, employing staff has never carried more pressure - or more risk.In this episode, our regular retailers of Trevor Scott, LIz Pantling-Jones, Nick Warrington and Steph Warner explore why attracting and retaining great people has become so difficult, the hidden cost of hiring the wrong person, and how independent retailers can build strong teams while still protecting profitability.Packed with honest discussion, practical advice and real-world experience, this is an essential listen for any KBB business owner trying to navigate today's recruitment minefield. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Working with builders, developers and contractors can open the door to bigger projects, repeat business and long-term growth — but it also brings tighter margins, tougher timelines and a whole new way of operating.In this episode of The kbbreview Podcast, our panel shares practical advice on how independent kitchen and bathroom retailers can successfully break into contracts work, build strong trade relationships and avoid the mistakes that can quickly turn opportunity into headache.What are the pros and cons, what processes or systems do you need, how do you plan it around retail work and what are the common pitfalls that catch retailers out?If you've ever wondered whether contractor business is worth it - and how to do it properly - you don't want to miss this one. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of The kbbreview Podcast, host Andrew Davies speaks exclusively to Mike Calcutt, Deputy Director in the HSE's Engagement and Policy Division, about the regulator's major update to its guidance on engineered stone fabrication and silica dust exposure.With silicosis cases rising globally, and Australia already banning engineered stone outrigh, the UK industry is now facing tougher expectations around water suppression, mist extraction, respiratory protection and health surveillance.Calcutt explains why HSE believes there is now “no scope” for dry cutting engineered stone, how the regulator plans to inspect more than 1,000 workplaces over the coming months, and why the new guidance stops short of introducing a full ban on high-silica materials.We also discuss the responsibilities of fabricators, suppliers and kitchen retailers, the growing push towards lower-silica products, and whether this is the end of the debate or just the beginning... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Margins matter. But how well do you really understand yours?Our regular panel of retailers - Nick Warrington, Liz Pantling-Jones, Steph Warner and Trevor Scott - gets into the nuts and bolts of profitability and margin. What does a 'healthy' margin actually look like?Is it better to track margin as one overall number or break it down by product?Which is the best way to improve margin - sell for more, buy for less, or reduce costs?When you're faced with a customer budget that doesn't quite work, what's the smartest way to adjust a project without damaging your margin?Where do margins most commonly slip on a job without retailers realising?Where does installation fit into margin management?When should you take a lower-margin job to boost cash flow?Turnover is vanity, but profit is sanity so this is real insight into the most fundamental part of running a business. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show where we dive into the realities of independent kitchen and bathroom retail.This week, host Andy Davies is joined by our panel of industry retailers to tackle...rebates. Are they a welcome bonus at the end of the year, or a core part of your commercial strategy? Do they genuinely influence what you sell - and even what your customers buy - or are they a flawed system that benefits suppliers more than you?Are they an actual incentive?Do some suppliers set unachievable targets which actually act as a disincentive?From negotiating terms and hitting targets to the risks of chasing rebates at the expense of customer serive, the panel shares honest insights, real experiences and a few hard truths. Featuring Nick Warrington, Liz Pantling-Jones, Steph Warner and Trevor Scott (dialling in from his motorhome somewhere in Scotland) this is a candid, practical look at how rebates really work on the shop floor, and whether they're fit for purpose in today's market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show totally dedicated to the world of independent kitchen and bathroom retail.Your host as always is kbbreview editor Andrew Davies and we're back with a brand new season.In this episode we're catching up on business so far in 2026 with our regular team of retailers - we're over halfway through April so how has the year been so far, where have the pinch points been, what are the positives, how are consumers behaving, is it all Donaldl Trump's fault, how are retailers adapting and how confident do they actually feel about the rest of the year?Waiting in the wings is our retailers Nick Warrington, Liz Pantling-Jones and Trevor Scott. BUT we also have a new recruit, very sadly Justine has had to leave the band as a regular member *although we will get her back for occasional guest appearances), so we have a new bathroom retailer - Steph Warner from Pier 1 Bathrooms in Hove.So if you want a snapshot of where independent kitchen and bathroom retail is right now, this is the episode for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final episode of Season 17 of The kbbreview Podcast, we've got an exclusive interview with one of the biggest names in kitchen retail - Magnet.Founded in 1918 in Bingley, Yorkshire, by Tom Duxbury, and famously named after his horse, Magnet has become one of the most recognisable brands in the UK kitchen market. But recent years have been anything but straightforward.Following a prolonged period of declining performance and an unwieldy estate of underperforming stores, the business has been deep in turnaround mode.However, it does have that enviable brand equity and the turnaround does seem to have been working under former head George Dymond.When Dymond stepped down last October, former commercial & customer director Sophie Rose took the reins of Magnet just as parent company Nobia agreed a sale to Alteri Partners.The deal returned Magnet to British ownership and, as Rose explains in this episode, puts the business firmly back in control of its own destiny.So kbbreview's George Dean met up with Sophie Rose and it's a really interesting insight into plans, outlook, the old chestnut of the never-ending sale and what role Magnet could and should be playing in the wider kitchen retail industry.It's a fascinating, timely discussion and a fitting finale to the season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast and it's Part Two of our kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026 winners special.Since the launch in September last year we've been doing special bonus episodes of the podcast all about the awards and now, we're at the sharp end, we're at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, and the party has begun.As with all our special awards bonus episodes, a huge thank you to our 2026 Awards Podcast Partner Sonas Bathrooms - you can find out all about them at sonasbathrooms.com.So in Part One we heard from all the winners in our design categories as well as our Special Achievement winner. In this second part we'll be catching up with winners from the Retail and Showroom categories, as well as the Rising Star, Unsung Hero, Installation Company and Supplier Team of the Year.Now let's get on with the business at hand!Huge congratulations to all of our winners, massive thank to all our sponsors and, of course, a very special thanks to our 2026 Awards Podcast Partner Sonas Bathrooms.And remember, if you fancy being here next year then, believe it or not, entries open for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2027 in September and we'll actually be announcing the host city and venue for that in a few weeks.So thank you for listening and see you in September! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast and this penultimate special bonus episode all about the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026.And it's all come down to this. Host Matt Baker is at the event itself in the Hilton Birmingham Metropole and it's all happening!As always, these special awards podcasts are all courtesy of our 2026 Awards Partner Sonas Bathrooms and, of course, you can find out all about them at sonasbathrooms.com.We join Matt huddled at the back of the room while everyone is eating their dinner after an amazing welcome reception, he's got a quick chat with one of the kbbreview team - Commercial Director Tara McTIgue - and then we go straight into the actual ceremony with our brilliant host Jayde Adams.We'll be hearing from all winners over two episodes - in this Part One we'll hear from our design winners as well as our Special Achievement awards recipient. And then in Part Two we'll meet the winners of the Retail and Showroom categories, as well as the Rising Star, Unsung Hero, Installation Company and Supplier Team of the Year.So it's a lot to get through so let's crack on with the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are live at kbb Birmingham 2026!And this is the perfect environment to talk about…. suppliers. In particular, what retailers look for in new suppliers, what questions are they asking, what are the deal breakers, is it all about product or all about terms?Also when you see existing suppliers in environments like this, how important is that face-to-face and is it a chance to renegotiate or simply complain?Live and in person, we have regulars Liz Pantling Jones from Lima Kitchen in Milton Keynes and Nick Warrington from Stuart J Warrington in Macclesfield. We're also joined by Darren Taylor from Searle & Taylor in Winchester.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of The kbbreview Podcast, host Matt Baker is joined by Managing Editor Andy Davies as they celebrate a huge milestone – Andy's 20th kbbreview Retail & Design Awards ceremony...From the early days to the present, Andy shares insights into how the awards have evolved, the philosophy behind them, the challenges and frustrations along the way, and the lessons learned from two decades of recognising excellence in the UK kitchen and bathroom industry. He also reflects on his favourite venues, the biggest changes he's witnessed in the sector, and what he's looking forward to at this year's awards.A big thank you to Sonas Bathrooms, our 2026 Awards Podcast Partner, for supporting this special episode and helping us champion the very best in KBB.If you're heading to kbb Birmingham, don't forget to pick up our special show issue of kbbreview, packed with floorplans and essential show content. And for awards attendees, the Welcome Reception kicks off at 6:30pm with a complimentary drink! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Kutchenhaus hits the 100-showroom milestone, we sit down with UK general manager Jim Barnard to unpack one of the most remarkable growth stories in mid-market kitchen retail.From just 10 showrooms in 2015 to a 100 High Street locations a decade later, Kutchenhaus has become a dominant force in UK kitchen retail backed by German manufacturing giant Nobilia and powered by a loyal network of owner-operators - nearly 40% now run more than one showroom.Recorded at the opening of the brand's 100th showroom in Beckenham, Barnard reflects on growth, culture and the realities of scaling a franchise business in a tough market. In this episode, we cover:Why reaching 100 showrooms is “huge” for a business that only began franchising in 2015How Kutchenhaus balances freedom and framework to maintain brand consistencyThe secret behind multi-site franchise successWhy Barnard believes “we're not right for everyone – and not everyone is right for us”The resurgence of franchising across kitchens – and what it means competitivelyInstallation, market headwinds and why the final two weeks of a project define everythingWhat's next, including expansion into untapped UK territories“Our playbooks aren't theoretical,” says Barnard. “They're based on what we know works in the real world.”If you want to understand why franchising is back in fashion – and how one brand has made it work at scale – this is an episode you won't want to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.