The kbbreview Podcast

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.

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?👉 Find out more and book tables or seats at kbbreview.com/awards👉 Learn more about our podcast sponsor at sonasbathrooms.comNow, on with the show. 🎙️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.🎧 Listen now — with the Rising Star winner revealed at the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards on March 2 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.