M
SHOW PREVIEW | kbb Birmingham Mapei UK Stand: F70
Another first-timer to the show, Mapei UK will showcase innovations from the Profilpas range, including: the Profilpas LED profiles for the illumination and decoration of floors and walls; general wall and flooring profiles in aluminium, stainless steel, brass and chrome-plated brass, alongside contemporary-styled shower drains and pedestal systems. Complementary Mapei products will include: Mapelastic AquaDefense Tanking Kit and Shower Waterproofing Kit; Mapeguard UM 35 for waterproofing and decoupling; Mapeheat underfloor heating, grouts and adhesives and cleaning, and maintenance products from Mapei’s UltraCare range to provide full installation systems for tiled finishes.
‘Retailers must adapt and bolster their online presence’ David Morris, sales manager, MHK UK
Q & A
Q: What are the main challenges facing your sector and how are you tackling them? A: There have always been challenges in the KBB industry and this year is no different with a landscape affected by the cost-of-living crisis, inflation, global unrest, scarcity of skilled designers and installers, and an increasing demand for sustainability. Retailers must adapt by bolstering their online presence, recognising it as the starting point for consumer engagement. Increasingly, even when referred by satisfied customers, new
Merlyn Stand: D40
Merlyn prides itself on creating beautiful shower enclosures that are designed to look great, be easy to maintain and have a lifetime guarantee – all with exceptional customer service as a hallmark. The shower enclosure specialist will present its new Wetroom Collection, which is available in chrome, matt black, brushed brass and brushed bronze. All panels 700mm and above come with a 1,000mm straight stabilising bar, and have a strong and sturdy construction. They are suitable for recess or corner situation and are also reversible. Merlyn will also showcase its new Black Frameless 1 Door Quadrant with 8mm glass thickness, concealed fixing and sooth action with extra-strong rollers.
prospects will look to a retailer’s online profile before making initial contact, making this the key touch point for converting potential leads.
Q: If you were opening a retail showroom in this market, what would your strategy be? A: As a new business, securing financial backing, support, and credit is crucial for rapid growth. Partnering with investors, suppliers, or a buying group like MHK can provide essential leverage. Cash flow and credit are pivotal for growth. New businesses often struggle to obtain favourable trade credit terms. Joining a buying group like MHK
can grant access to extended payment terms, enabling competitiveness by reducing the need for large client deposits and attracting new business. Efficient time management is vital. Without experienced staff dedicated to supplier sourcing and negotiation, narrow the focus on preferred brands or utilise a buying group for introductions to multiple suppliers.
It pays to seek external help when setting up the business. From warehouse management to website development, being part of a supportive community can significantly ease the process for kitchen retailers.
MHK Group Stand: P84
With access to more than 60 products, including 20 furniture and 22 appliance brands, MHK will be offering kbb 2024 exclusive display offers for its trading partners. The MHK UK stand will offer space to connect for a coffee in a relaxed environment, as well as a dedicated business area to learn more about member benefits. MHK invites visitors to the show to meet its UK team and discover how they “make the difference”. Learn more about the many benefits for members, including “excellent” buying and credit terms from some of the leading suppliers in the industry, protected bonuses, business and marketing support and access to a huge range of brands across all categories of the kitchen and bathroom specification process.
98 • March 2024
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