INDUSTRY UPDATE THE KBSA COLUMN
MERLYN Announces New Export Sales Manager
KBSA announces the date for KBB Industry
he Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA) has confirmed that its next annual conference will take place on Thursday, 13th May 2027 at The Belfry, while a programme of regional events will be introduced throughout 2026 to bring the association closer to its members. Following a review of the industry calendar, the KBSA Board has made the strategic decision to move its flagship conference from its traditional autumn slot to May going forward. The change reflects the increasingly busy autumn period, when new product launches, international trade exhibitions in Germany and the run-up to the Christmas trading season compete for retailers’ time and attention. KBSA Chair Richard Hibbert explains: “The decision reflects a clear- eyed look at the industry calendar. The autumn period has become extremely congested, with major product launches, key international exhibitions and the critical run-up to Christmas all placing pressure on retailers’ schedules. Factoring in holiday periods and the wider demands on businesses at that time, the Board concluded that a spring date offers a stronger commercial opportunity.”
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Rather than stepping back from events in the intervening period, the KBSA will use 2026 to introduce a series of networking events and regional meetings for its retailer members.
These events are designed to create more accessible opportunities for members to connect locally, strengthen peer networks and discuss the specific challenges facing retailers in different parts of the country. The approach will allow for more regular engagement throughout this year.
Dates and venues for the 2026 regional events are currently being finalised and will be announced soon.
hower enclosure specialist MERLYN has appointed Stéphane Ferry as its new export sales manager as the company continues to strengthen its growth strategy. Stéphane brings more than 20 years’ experience in sales and business development, with a strong track record in driving revenue growth, securing high-value contracts and expanding national and international accounts across the UK and Europe. A French citizen who has lived in several countries throughout his life, Stéphane has been settled in Manchester for a number of years and brings a strong international perspective to the role.
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More details are available from The KBSA
www.kbsa.org.uk or call 01623 818808
34 BKU APRIL 2026
In his new role at MERLYN, Stéphane will focus on developing export opportunities, strengthening relationships with retail partners and supporting the brand’s continued expansion across key markets. “I’m delighted to be joining MERLYN at such an exciting time for the business. The brand has built a strong reputation for quality and innovation, and I’m looking forward to working with our retail partners to further develop export opportunities and support continued growth across key markets.”
www.merlynshowering.com
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