INDUSTRY VIEWS INDUSTRY
VIEWS
Who Really Owns the Brand?
It’s time to rethink how we sell appliances. Many so-called “big brands” are now produced in the same factories as lesser-known labels, often sharing components and performance – the logo is the only difference. Meanwhile, these brands push online sales, squeezing margins for independent retailers who do all the heavy lifting in sales, service and aftercare.
At Waterline, we believe the retailer should be the real brand. That’s why our Essentials range isn’t sold online or propped up by costly campaigns. It’s simply quality appliances, backed by robust warranties, that empower retailers to sell on trust and expertise – not logos. Displays are performance-based: sell five, and the display costs vanish. In a market where 40% margins on big names are fading, Essentials proves customers are buying you, not the badge. Isn’t it time to back brands – and suppliers – that truly back you?
Supporting Skilled Installers – Strengthening the KBB Chain
In today’s fast-paced and competitive KBB market, customer satisfaction extends well beyond the point of sale – a crucial part of the process is the installation. This is where skilled, professional installers play a pivotal role in bringing a product’s promise to life. At PJH, we recognise that a beautifully designed bathroom is only as good as its installation. The installer is not just a tradesperson, they are trutsted to bring bathroom plans and designs to life. A high-quality, seamless installation builds trust, enhances the overall experience, and ultimately protects the reputation of the retailer and the distributor alike.
That’s why we continue to support initiatives such as the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI), which is helping to raise standards across the industry. Through training, accreditation, and consumer awareness, BiKBBI is ensuring that skilled installers are properly recognised, and that customers can feel confident in the quality of the service they receive. Each link in the KBB chain benefits when installers are seen not as standalone tradespeople, but as vital contributors to the customer journey. Aligning with accredited installers doesn’t just help mitigate risk and reduce call-backs, it also opens the door to repeat business, recommendations, and long-term brand loyalty.
Comment by Kim Cooper, Head of Marketing & Product, PJH
Comment by Michael Marriott, CEO, Waterline
Supporting the installer network and championing quality installation, we strengthen the entire industry and ensure that from the distrbutor to the store, the promise becomes a reality in every home.
Hot Taps with handsprays introduce
5 functions in today’s wash zone Function forward style trends have shown the kitchen tap is no longer just for washing the dishes, as the desire for increased efficiency has led to a range of extra design features, which are introducing up to 5 functions in the wet zone such as making hot drinks, delivering filtered water, prepping food, pot filling, and general washing and cleaning. Working in combination with the latest mixer taps and workstation sinks, the leading hot taps are being paired alongside handsprays with ergonomic controls and powerful spray action through to water filtration, which are good for the user and the environment.
The market continues to experience steady growth for boiling water taps, which are high performance and sensitively styled with the most popular delivering 4 IN 1 functionality. Our research reports that 80% of all new premium kitchens, and 20% of all mid-range kitchens now include a hot tap as standard with no sign of diminshing.
Comments by Dan Biddle, Product Manager, Abode
BKU JULY 2025
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