INDUSTRY UPDATE THE IPG Supporting Independents
Fit for the future: Why 2026 will be a defining year for BIFIS
s we embark on 2026, the institute’s 20th Anniversary year, there is an optimism and certainty that the next 12 months will be a significant one for both the organisation and the wider fitted interiors sector - defined by both considerable opportunity and ongoing challenges. The change from BiKBBI to BIFIS in 2025 signified more than just a new name, it was also the bridge to a broadened mission to support the full spectrum of fitted interiors professionals, retailer partners and corporate stakeholders.
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The IPG Member Spotlight: Gasbits Ltd - 20 Years of Independent Success
ne of the most rewarding parts of being part of The IPG is seeing our members grow, adapt and truly thrive - Gasbits Ltd is a great example of what long-term independent success looks like.
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Founded in 2005 by Steve Ware and Ross Pavey, Gasbits Ltd has grown from a single trade counter into a well-established, multi-site business. Today, the company operates through two complementary brands: Gas & Plumb Bits, serving the heating and plumbing trade and The Bath Works, its customer-focused bathroom showroom business. Based across Dorset and Hampshire, the business supports both trade and retail customers throughout the region.
Across both brands, the same values run through everything they do: strong relationships, knowledgeable service and a genuine understanding of customers’ needs. Over the past 20 years, the business has continued to evolve, investing in its offer, its locations and its people to remain relevant in a changing market.
Since joining The IPG in 2017, Gasbits Ltd has gone from strength to strength. Expansion into new locations, the continued development of The Bath Works showrooms and well-deserved industry recognition all reflect the progress made in recent years.
A key part of Gasbits Ltd’s success is the family ethos at its core. Both founders’ wives (Kate and Nicola) play active roles within the business, strengthening its culture and supporting its continued growth. Combined with hands-on leadership and a committed team, this approach has created a business that balances ambition with genuine care for people. We’re proud to have Steve, Ross, Kate and Nicola as part of The IPG community and look forward to seeing what the future holds.
Nike Lovell, Marketing Director, The IPG.
Growth and professionalisation remain key themes for us this year. In 2025, we saw a record number of installation businesses join BIFIS, demonstrating that more professionals are recognising the value of credible accreditation and industry support. This trend looks set to continue in 2026 as businesses seek differentiation in a competitive market and consumers increasingly demand verified quality and professionalism.
However, the skills gap remains the most pressing challenge facing our sector. Ongoing data continues to indicate an ageing workforce and a slow inflow of new talent, which risks constraining capacity just as demand for fitted interiors continues.
We must continue to elevate vocational pathways, strengthen apprenticeships, and work collaboratively with government and education providers to attract the next generation of installers. The introduction of the Fitted Interiors Skills Hub in Q1 of this year will provide a much-needed platform to focus the industry’s efforts in this area – we will be sharing more in this in the coming weeks.
Economic headwinds will also shape the landscape. Many SMEs in the sector are grappling with rising operational costs, wage pressures, and broader economic uncertainty. The Autumn Budget in November 2025 underscored that small businesses will need more targeted support to thrive. Our position is clear: Government must recognise the unique dynamics of the fitted interiors sector and ensure that financial frameworks do not inadvertently stifle growth or innovation. Looking forward, industry collaboration, investment in skills, and commitment to quality will be the defining drivers of success in 2026. Through initiatives such as enhanced training platforms, strengthened professional standards and sector-wide partnerships, we can build a fitter, more resilient sector that meets the aspirations of both businesses and consumers.
www.tradelocalday.co.uk
www.the-ipg.co.uk
38 BKU JANUARY 2026
Damian Walters Chief Executive Officer, BIFIS
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