Explore every episode of the podcast The kbbreview Podcast

Are we becoming too obsessed with trends? Kitchens and bathrooms might be a fashion industry, but how much should the latest look influence a room someone could live with for the next 20 years?

kbbreview editor Andy Davies joins our retailer panel - Trevor Scott, Liz Pantling-Jones, Nick Warrington and Steph Warner - to discuss how they help customers separate what they actually love from what they’ve seen everywhere on social media.

When should designers encourage a bold choice, and when should they warn someone they might regret it? Is “timeless” design possible, or can playing safe become boring? And how do retailers keep showroom displays current without constantly chasing the next new finish?

We also look beyond colours and door styles to the lifestyle changes shaping what customers need from their homes, before sharing the trends the panel hopes will never return.

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Cyncly’s CEO Anand Krishnan joins kbbreview editor Andy Davies to explore how technology is fundamentally changing the journey from the first thought of buying a new kitchen or bathroom to the final order.

They discuss why retailers need to engage with customers long before they walk through the showroom door, how online inspiration can create better-qualified leads and why connecting every stage of the process could turn a journey that once took weeks into one that takes days.

And, of course, they tackle AI. Anand explains where he believes it can genuinely help designers today, where the hype is running ahead of reality, and why its biggest benefit could be removing the repetitive ‘grunt work’ and giving designers more time to do the things only humans can do.

This episode of The kbbreview Podcast is commercial content

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Today we’re talking about the big national kitchen and bathroom retailers and why a customer might choose one over you the independent...

It would be easy to spend this episode agreeing that independents offer better service, better design and better everything else than the big national chains. But how much of that is based on knowing what the competition actually does, and how much is what we like to tell ourselves?

This week, our retailer panel looks at the choice through the customer’s eyes. A familiar name, a finance deal or a showroom they feel comfortable wandering into can all be persuasive. Meanwhile, your beautiful independent showroom might have someone outside thinking: “I can’t afford that.”

How much do independents really know about the nationals’ products, prices and service? What do the big chains do well, and are the things independents consider their greatest strengths the things customers actually care about?

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Think you’ve got no chance of winning a kbbreview Retail & Design Award? Let the judges decide.

In this special bonus episode, kbbreview editor Andrew Davies explains how to give your 2027 entry the best possible shot. From choosing your categories to showing the judges what makes you stand out, he covers the essentials, the common mistakes and why you don’t need the biggest showroom or the flashiest project to take home a trophy.

Entering is free, and shortlisted entrants in the retail and design categories get two free tickets to the awards at Magna in Sheffield on April 22, 2027.

Entries close at 5pm on Thursday, November 12, 2026, with no extensions. Listen in, then get started at kbbreview.com/awards.

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Big promises, a new boss and a structural shake-up at the KBSA.

New managing director Luke Wedgbury joins Andy Davies to set out his manifesto for change – and explains why he and the board want to give independent retailers compelling new reasons to join while potentially making it harder to get in.

As the owner of Coalville Kitchens in Leicestershire, Wedgbury knows that a badge on the showroom door means very little if membership doesn’t help you run a better business. Recorded at The Belfry following his first speech in the role, this conversation explores how he intends to turn ambition into action.

With trading tough and good staff hard to find, what can the association actually do to help? Can it create a culture where retailers talk openly about their problems? And how does it convince consumers that choosing a KBSA member matters?

Plus, entries are open for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2027, with categories for retailers, designers, rising stars, unsung heroes and supplier teams. The deadline is 5pm on Thursday, November 12. Find everything you need to enter at kbbreview.com/awards.

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What do retailers actually need from suppliers to help sell their products?

This week, kbbreview editor Andy Davies is joined by Trevor Scott from RFK, Steph Warner from Pier One Bathrooms and Nick Warrington from Stuart J Warrington to discuss brochures and the other sales materials suppliers provide.

Where does a printed brochure fit into the sales process? Is it a catalogue for designers or a source of inspiration for clients? And does its quality still help establish a brand’s status? We also look at point-of-sale material and showroom signage – what earns its keep, what retailers could do without, and what’s missing?

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The debate around engineered stone and silica is moving quickly. Australia has banned it, California is considering strict limits and, here in the UK, the HSE is focusing on making sure it is fabricated safely.

But what does all this mean for independent kitchen and bathroom retailers?

This week, our retailer panel discusses how much they really know about the way their worktops are fabricated, what happens when stone needs cutting or drilling on site, whether retailers should be policing their own supply chains and where responsibility ultimately lies.

And it leads to a much bigger question: with so many rules and regulations to comply with, how are independent retailers supposed to know if they're getting everything right?

Plus, a reminder that entries are now open for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2027 – but the closing date is Thursday, November 12, and there will be no extensions. Find out everything you need to know at kbbreview.com/awards.

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Don't scroll past this one!

The very fact that you probably rolled your eyes when you saw this episode was about sustainability is at the heart of today's discussion.

Climate change is obviously an enormous issue affecting humanity and, as a result, sustainability is one of the biggest talking points among kitchen and bathroom manufacturers.

But why does no one seem to actually care when they’re buying a new kitchen or bathroom? And is that why retailers don't really seem to care either?

In this episode of the show, host Andy Davies is joined by our regular retailer panel to ask why sustainability remains such a difficult sales message. Do customers ask about it? Are retailers reluctant to bring it up? Can water-saving and energy-saving products actually sound like a compromise rather than a benefit?

And, crucially, what would have to change before sustainability became something retailers actively wanted to use to sell kitchens and bathrooms?

Don't forget! Entries are now open for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2027. For everything you need to know, go to kbbreview.com/awards

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Why is franchising suddenly booming in the KBB industry?

Ripples managing director Paul Crow joins Andy Davies to discuss how the bathroom franchise has almost doubled its showroom network in five years – despite an unpredictable retail market where footfall remains under pressure.

Paul explains why attitudes towards franchising have changed, why Ripples has deliberately resisted chasing growth for growth’s sake and why the company is now preparing to recruit franchisees again.

They also discuss the changing nature of independent retail, the benefits of sharing knowledge across a network and why Paul believes the relationship between retailers and some major suppliers is becoming increasingly disconnected.

And could the next generation of Ripples include existing independents converting their showrooms?

Don't forget that entries are OPEN for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2027. The closing date is November 12th and everything you need to know is at kbbreview.com/awards

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Lakes Showering Spaces is celebrating its 40th anniversary, but rather than simply looking back, Marten Baker joins Andy Davies to talk about how a specialist shower door brand keeps moving forward in one of the most competitive areas of the bathroom market.

They discuss the importance of service, ease of installation and long-term availability of spare parts; why longevity increasingly matters in product design; and how Lakes is looking towards a more premium area of the market.

Plus, as bathroom design becomes increasingly driven by colour, texture and coordinated finishes, Marten explains the challenges facing shower enclosure manufacturers trying to keep pace with rapidly changing trends in brassware.

What does innovation really look like when, fundamentally, a shower door is still a piece of glass, some metal and a handle?

This podcast is commercial content

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If one successful showroom is good, surely two must be better? More customers, more displays, more sales and a bigger business. Simple, right?

Well, perhaps not.

In this episode of The kbbreview Podcast, our regular panel of independent KBB retailers gets into the realities of opening that all-important second showroom.

How do you know when the time is right to expand? How do you choose the right location? Should showroom number two be a carbon copy of the original, or is it an opportunity to try something completely different? And does it need to be a fully-fledged showroom at all, or could a smaller, sales-led satellite operation make more sense?

Then there are the practicalities. How do you manage staff, logistics and communication across multiple locations without spreading yourself too thinly? And, most importantly, does a second showroom actually make you more profitable – or is there some truth in the old warning that you can “double your outlets and halve your profit”?

Trevor Scott from RFK, Liz Pantling-Jones from Lima Kitchens, Nick Warrington from Stuart J Warrington and Steph Warner from Pier One Bathrooms share their experiences, opinions and lessons learned.

Plus, entries are now open for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2027. We’re looking for the very best retailers, showrooms and designers in the country, alongside our next Rising Stars and Unsung Heroes. Entries close on Thursday, November 12, with the winners revealed at the spectacular Magna in Sheffield on Thursday, April 22, 2027.

For all the info go to kbbreview.com/awards

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Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show all about the ups and downs and ins and outs of being an independent kitchen and bathroom retailer.

This week we’re talking about something that every business owner needs to think about – but probably not enough of them actually do - succession planning.

And that doesn’t just mean deciding what happens when you eventually retire or sell the business. What happens if you’re suddenly not there tomorrow? Could the business keep going without you? Who knows what you know, who makes the decisions and who keeps everything moving?

And what happens if it’s not you that leaves, but a key member of the team?

Trevor, Liz, NIck and Steph are all here and when it comes to succession planning they are at very different stages – from relatively new business owners to those actively trying to make their companies less dependent on them, right through to semi-retirement.

So how do you build a business that can survive – and thrive – without you?

And don't forget, entries are now OPEN for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2027. Go to kbbreview.com/awards for everything you need to know.

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The Government says it wants to crack down on 'cowboy' traders in the home improvement market– but what does that actually mean for legitimate kitchen and bathroom retailers and installers?

In this episode of The kbbreview Podcast, host Andy Davies talks to Trusted Payments founder James Walker about the new government-backed initiative designed to protect consumers and good businesses.

He's at the sharp end of how the payment system actually works, whether retailers can keep their existing stage-payment structures, what happens when a customer refuses to pay, the role of the Ombudsman, and why Walker believes the answer to rogue traders isn’t simply more regulation – it’s making it easier for reputable businesses to earn trust and get paid.

If you take deposits, manage installations or simply want to know what this new scheme could mean for your business, this is one you need to hear.

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Season 19 of The kbbreview Podcast is here – and the Fab Four are back!

Trevor Scott, Liz Pantling-Jones, Nick Warrington and Steph Warner return after the summer break to answer the simplest question with the most complicated answer: how’s business?

From footfall, leads and consumer confidence to changing client behaviour and the strategies that are actually working, we take the temperature of the independent KBB market right now.

Plus, entries are officially open for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2027, with categories covering the best retailers, showrooms and designs, as well as Rising Stars and Unsung Heroes. The deadline is Thursday, November 12, with the big night taking place at Magna in Sheffield on April 22, 2027.

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Bathshack started life as an online-only bathroom retailer in 2009. Three years later it opened its first showroom – and discovered something surprising: physical stores actually boosted its online sales.

Now, after building a network of 13 showrooms across Ireland and Northern Ireland, founder and CEO Peter Dunlop has brought Bathshack to England for the first time with a new store in Cheadle.

So what can independent retailers learn from a business that has successfully combined bricks-and-mortar retail with e-commerce? Why does Dunlop believe showrooms and websites should reinforce rather than compete with each other? And, with the market as tough as it is, why is he choosing now to expand?

We talk online versus offline, the importance of being genuinely different, supplier strategies, AI, customer service and why waiting for the perfect market conditions could mean waiting forever.

It's a fascinating conversation about growth, differentiation and what today's bathroom customer really wants.

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Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show all about the ins and out and ups and down of being an independent kitchen and bathroom retailer.

And this is a surprise bonus episode before we officially start our new season in a couple of weeks time as we managed to catch up with Sophie Rose the CEO of Magnet to get an update on what's happening with them.

And, as I'm sure you've been following, a lot has happened in the last few months.

The business returned to quarterly profit in late 2025 for the first time since 2019. Then Nobia exited the UK, selling Magnet to private equity firm Alteri Partners - just a few months after Sophie Rose took the helm.

But the turnaround story has remained challenging – this summer Magnet proposed a CVA to tackle historic property costs, including immediate plans to close 15 underperforming stores. 

So, after a year of new ownership, new leadership and some very significant financial restructuring, where does one of the UK kitchen market’s biggest names go from here?

Here is kbbreview's very own George Dean in conversation with Sophie Rose…

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Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show all about the ins and outs and ups and downs of being an independent kitchen and bathroom retailer.

This is the final episode in a very special bonus series of interviews marking our milestone 500th issue.

We published our first issue in 1984 and since then we've brought retailers the latest news, big interviews, unwavering opinions, valuable advice, deep analysis and product insights

This longevity is not by accident, we are as buffeted by the uncertain and unpredictable market as much as anyone, and our heritage is built as much on resilience as it is by quality.

And this is what we want to explore in this series - we're talking to some of the industry's leading suppliers about THEIR resilience, history, continuity and investments in the future.

In this final episode we're meeting Matt Fowler from one of the biggest European names in furniture components - Hettich

This episode is commercial content

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What really makes a business set to last?

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show all about the ins and outs and ups and downs of being an independent kitchen and bathroom retailer.

This is another in our very special bonus series of interviews marking our milestone 500th issue.

We published our first issue in 1984 and since then we've brought retailers the latest news, big interviews, unwavering opinions, valuable advice, deep analysis and product insights

This longevity is not by accident, we are as buffeted by the uncertain and unpredictable market as much as anyone, and our heritage is built as much on resilience as it is by quality.

And this is what we want to explore in this series - we're talking to some of the industry's leading suppliers about THEIR resilience, history, continuity and investments in the future.

In this episode, we're meeting Julie McLean from one of the biggest names in bathrooms - Hansgrohe....

This episode is commercial content

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show all about the ins and outs and ups and downs of being an independent kitchen and bathroom retailer.

This is the latest in a very special bonus series of interviews marking our milestone 500th issue.

We published our first issue in 1984 and since then we've brought retailers the latest news, big interviews, unwavering opinions, valuable advice, deep analysis and product insights

This longevity is not by accident, we are as buffeted by the uncertain and unpredictable market as much as anyone, and our heritage is built as much on resilience as it is by quality.

And this is what we want to explore in this series - we're talking to some of the industry's leading suppliers about THEIR resilience, history, continuity and investments in the future.

When it comes to heritage it doesn't much longer than Aga Rangemaster and in this episode we're talking to Group Managing Director Dominic Worsley...

This episode is commercial content

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What really makes a business set to last?

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show all about the ins and outs and ups and downs of being an independent kitchen and bathroom retailer.

This is another of our very special bonus series of interviews marking our milestone 500th issue.

We published our first issue in 1984 and since then we've brought retailers the latest news, big interviews, unwavering opinions, valuable advice, deep analysis and product insights

This longevity is not by accident, we are as buffeted by the uncertain and unpredictable market as much as anyone, and our heritage is built as much on resilience as it is by quality.

And this is what we want to explore in this series - we're talking to some of the industry's leading suppliers about THEIR resilience, history, continuity and investments in the future.

In this episode, we're meeting Howard Grindrod from one of the biggest appliance brands and manufacturers in the world - Hisense.

This episode is commercial content

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show all about the ins and outs and ups and downs of being an independent kitchen and bathroom retailer.

This is the latest episode in our special series marking our 500th issue all about resilience and longevity in business

We published our first issue in 1984 and since then we've brought retailers the latest news, big interviews, unwavering opinions, valuable advice, deep analysis and product insights

This longevity is not by accident, we are as buffeted by the uncertain and unpredictable market as much as anyone, and our heritage is built as much on resilience as it is by quality.

And this is what we want to explore in this series - we're talking to some of the industry's leading suppliers about THEIR resilience, history, continuity and investments in the future.

In this episode we're talking about one of the most interesting sectors in this industry - distribution - with Arthur Leaker from from Leaker Direct...

This episode is commercial content

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show all about the ins and outs and ups and downs of being an independent kitchen and bathroom retailer.

This is the first in a very special bonus series of interviews marking our milestone 500th issue.

We published our first issue in 1984 and since then we've brought retailers the latest news, big interviews, unwavering opinions, valuable advice, deep analysis and product insights

This longevity is not by accident, we are as buffeted by the uncertain and unpredictable market as much as anyone, and our heritage is built as much on resilience as it is by quality.

And this is what we want to explore in this series - we're talking to some of the industry's leading suppliers about THEIR resilience, history, continuity and investments in the future.

We're starting with Sven Herden, the managing director of sales and marketing for German kitchen furniture giant Rotpunkt - a family owned company that's been around for more than 90 years…

This episode is commercial content

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your website is probably the hardest-working member of your team, but is it actually doing the job you need it to?

This week, the retailer panel of Trevor Scott, Nick Warrington, Liz Pantling-Jones and Steph Warner tackles one of the biggest investments independent kitchen and bathroom retailers make: their website. From first impressions and case studies to pricing, lead generation and analytics, they discuss what a modern website should really be doing in 2026.

As AI search starts to change the way consumers find local businesses, the panel explores how they're adapting their websites for ChatGPT and Google's AI results, whether SEO still matters, why they're all rebuilding or refreshing their sites, and the surprising lessons they've learned from asking AI to critique their own businesses.

Plus, should you publish your prices? Are blogs still worth writing? What content actually generates enquiries? And how do you measure whether your website is bringing in genuine customers or simply costing you money?

This is the last episode of the current season as we head into the summer break. We'll be back at the start of September but, to tide you over, look out for a special series of episodes in August marking the milestone 500th issue of kbbreview.

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This week we're talking to Graham Johnston, the new owner and CEO of Kitchens International, following the management buyout that has returned one of Scotland's best-known luxury kitchen retailers to independent ownership.

After a career leading customer experience and digital transformation at companies including Three, Optical Express and Asda, Graham explains why he believes the future of kitchen retail still revolves around great designers and inspiring showrooms, even as AI begins to reshape the customer journey.

We discuss why he's investing in three new locations despite a challenging market, how he's blending ideas from outside the KBB industry with a design-led retail business, why he's assembled an advisory board to challenge his thinking, and what the next generation of independent retailers needs to do to stay relevant.

It's a conversation about leadership, innovation, customer experience and why, sometimes, the best way to move a business forward is to take it back to its roots.

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This week we’re tackling one of the oldest frustrations in independent KBB retail - the battle between the physical showroom and online.

For years, retailers have had to deal with customers finding products cheaper online after using the showroom for inspiration, advice and reassurance. But has that problem changed? Have selective distribution agreements helped level the playing field? And are bathrooms now facing the same pain kitchens had with appliances a decade ago?

Trevor, Steph, Nick and Liz get into the realities of online price comparisons, direct-selling suppliers, DIY Kitchens, Victorian Plumbing, worktops, taps, tiles, flooring and the growing sense that the biggest online threat may no longer just be cheaper products, but the whole project being pulled away from the independent showroom by AI...

As consumers increasingly ask ChatGPT, Gemini or Claude where to buy a kitchen or bathroom, how do independents make sure they’re still part of the answer?

A sharp, practical and slightly alarming discussion about where online competition really sits in 2026, and where the next battleground might be.

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Running an independent KBB business can be hugely rewarding, but it also comes with a level of pressure that customers rarely see. Behind every successful showroom is a business owner juggling cashflow, managing staff, making difficult decisions and carrying the responsibility of keeping the whole operation moving forward.

In this episode we're talking openly about the worries and concerns that come with business ownership. From cash flow, clients and constant niggles to the challenge of planning for the future, we explore the issues that weigh most heavily on retailers' minds, and those new ideas that just won't stop buzzing around until you've written them down at 3am.

We also ask who do business owners actually talk to when the pressure starts to build? Running a business can be surprisingly lonely. As the person everyone else looks to for answers, where do you go when you need advice, reassurance or simply someone who understands? Is it your business partner, your spouse, fellow retailers, a mentor or do you keep it all to yourself?

Beyond the business itself, we discuss the personal side of ownership. How do you cope with the mental load of always being 'on'? Can you ever truly switch off? And how do you stop the pressures of running a business from spilling over into family life?

The regular panel of Trevor Scott, Liz Pantling-Jones, Steph Warner and Nick Warrington share their own experiences of dealing with stress, making tough decisions and finding ways to maintain perspective when the responsibility feels overwhelming. They also reveal the habits, routines and mindset that help them stay resilient, offering practical insights for anyone navigating the highs and lows of running their own business.

Whether you've ever lain awake worrying about payroll, a difficult customer, the state of the market or simply wondering if everyone else feels the same way, this is an honest, relatable and reassuring conversation about the realities of business ownership and why sometimes the most important thing you can do is talk about it.

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Is the traditional independent KBB retailer being squeezed out of the middle?

As the likes of Wren, Howdens, DIY Kitchens and Victorian Plumbing continue to push further up the value chain, many independent retailers are finding themselves caught in a tightening gap between volume and luxury. So what happens when the middle ground starts to disappear?

kbbreview editor Andy Davies is joined as always by Trevor Scott (RFK), Steph Warner (Pier1 Bathrooms), Nick Warrington (Stuart J Warrington) and Liz Pantling-Jones (Lima Kitchens) to tackle one of the biggest questions facing the industry right now.

Is the mid-market actually shrinking, or are we simply redefining what it means? Have the big national players already won the battle for value-conscious customers? And is the real danger not being in the middle market but being indistinguishable within it?

We're exploring why more independents are moving upmarket and whether that's a strategic choice or a necessity. We're also looking at the changing role of suppliers, with some premium brands that traditionally built their success through independent retailers now pursuing greater volume by moving further down the value chain and into mass-market retail.

If the middle is being squeezed from both ends, where does that leave the independent retailer? And if you were opening a brand-new KBB showroom tomorrow, would you target the mid-market at all?

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Welcome to The kbbreview Podcast, the show all about the ups and downs and ins and outs of being an independent kitchen and bathroom retailer.

And today we're talking about the old chestnut of charging for design - it's a seemingly perennial subject but rather than focusing on whether you should or shouldn't, we're looking at how to do it if you decide you should.

• What are the pros and cons of the different models?
• Is a flat fee?
• Is it refundable?
• Are basic designs free but detailed ones carry a charge?
• Should that fee increase based on how senior the designer is?

And...what is the conversation you have with the client to justify it?

Our usual retailer crew of Trevor Scott, Nick Warrington, Elizabeth Pantling-Jones and Steph Warner are all here with host Andy Davies.

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What does it really take to become Retailer of the Year at the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards?

In this special bonus episode of The kbbreview Podcast, Andy Davies sits down with the 2026 Kitchen and Bathroom Retailers of the Year to uncover the strategies, decisions and mindset behind their award-winning businesses.

Darren Walker of Laings and Ben Setterfield of Bathroom + Kitchen Eleven share the lessons they've learned, the numbers they watch, how they’re adapting to a changing market and where they see the biggest opportunities for independent retailers in the years ahead.

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Recruiting good people is only half the battle and what happens after they've signed on the dotted line is where the real work begins.

In this unofficial part two to last week’s recruitment episode, Andy Davies and the panel tackle the challenge of training and upskilling new showroom staff.

From structured inductions and supplier support to learning CAD, building confidence and surviving the dreaded “too much too soon” meltdown, the team shares honest advice, hard-earned lessons and practical tips for getting new recruits up to speed.

Featuring Trevor Scott (RFK), Nick Warrington (Stuart J Warrington), Steph Warner (Pier One Bathrooms) and Liz Pantling-Jones (Lima Kitchens), this episode explores the way structured support is vital even in small businesses.

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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.

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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.

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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...

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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!

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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....

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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!

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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 2015
• How Kutchenhaus balances freedom and framework to maintain brand consistency
• The secret behind multi-site franchise success
• Why 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 competitively
• Installation, market headwinds and why the final two weeks of a project define everything
• What’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.

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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

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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....

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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.

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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

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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!

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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. 🔥

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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.

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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.

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