INDUSTRY UPDATE THE KBSA COLUMN
The 1810 Company expands sales team with 3 new Regional Sales Managers
of three new Regional Sales Managers, building on a successful year and supporting the company’s continued growth. Newly appointed RSMs Sarah Jane,DavidDredge and Matt Stevenson
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each bring valuable experience within the kitchen industry, and will play a key role in increasing regional presence and enhancing the support available to retailers across the UK. Expanding the field sales team aligns with Managing Director Bernhard
KBSA The Big Debate – KBB Industry Conference 2025
insightful discussion that brought together influential voices in the independent retail sector. Panellists and delegates tackled themost pressing challenges facing the industry today, from the question of whether to charge for design to the growing importance of workplace culture. The session featured expert panel Jamie Harding (Et Lorem),
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Lindsay Copperwheat (TC Kitchens), Liam Butler (Butler Interiors) and Lynne McBride (Tolle Kitchens). The debate opened with one of the most talked-about issues in
design retail – whether studios should charge for their design services. Formany independents, design is a professional skill deserving of recognition and payment. Others, however, continue to view free design as an essential part of the customer journey. A live poll of conference delegates revealed how divided the industry remains. A third (33%) felt that offering free designs undervalues a designer’s skills, while 31% said the answer depends on context and client relationship. A further 37% maintained that providing design at no charge is simply part of the sales process. Panellists agreed that the lack of a unified approach has long caused confusion for both retailers and customers. Several delegates called for the introduction of industry-wide guidelines or accreditation, allowing design to be formally recognised as a professional service rather than a sales incentive. The conversation reflected a growing sentiment that independents must collectively redefine how design is valued, both within the industry and by consumers. The mood at the end of the debate was optimistic, with a sense that
the sector is ready to unite behind a shared vision for the future. As one panellist aptly summarised, “Positivity and partnership are key. There’s business out there for everyone – if we go after it together.”
he KBSA closed its 2025 IndustryConference with the much-anticipated The Big Debate, an energetic and
van Ommen’s ambition to increase the number of salespeople on the road, giving retailers more direct access to support and the opportunity to build stronger relationships with their local representative. Bernhard said: “Weare delighted to have Sarah Jane, David, and Matt onboard, bringing an abundance of insight and experience to our team. “Their appointments reinforce our commitment to our customers,
helping us provide the highest level of service and expertise, and supporting our ongoing growth.” “The new additions round off a successful year for The 1810 Company
and will allow for territories to be spread more evenly across the sales team, providing greater coverage and enabling us to reach even more independent retailers.” Working to promote premium stainless steel and PVD options by 1810,
and quartz composite ranges by SCHOCK, the trio of new RSMs will work to provide knowledge and support to retailers across their respective areas. Sarah Jane will be responsible for looking after customers in the North
West of England and North Wales, with David overseeing South Wales and the South West of England, and Matt supporting retailers across the East and North East of England. As part of the SCHOCK Group, The 1810 Company is proud to be
investing in its people and product expertise across its premium quartz composite and stainless-steel sink collections. Bernhard added: “These appointments are a key part of our strategy to
put more salespeople on the road and ensure our customers receive the support they need. “It’s been a strong year for The 1810 Company, and continuing to grow
our team in this way allows us tomaintain close, face-to-face relationships with retailers across the UK.” To find out more about The 1810 Company (A SCHOCK Group Company), please visit the website.
www.the1810company.co.uk
he 1810 Company is delighted to have further strengthened its national presence with the appointment
More details are available from The KBSA
www.kbsa.org.uk or call 01623 818808
40 BKU DECEMBER 2025
L to R – The 1810 Company’s new Regional Sales Managers David Dredge, Matt Stevenson, Sarah Jane, with Managing Director Bernhard van Ommen.
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