WORKSURFACES & SPLASHBACKS James Archer


PWS: Building momentum through innovation


BKU Editor Matt Broughton speaks with PWS Head of Sales, James Archer, about a successful start to 2026, product innovation, manufacturing investment, sustainability and the evolving expectations around worksurface design.


T


he first half of 2026 has been a rewarding period for PWS, with


industry recognition, product development and investment all helping to shape the year so far. A major highlight has been the company’s


continued recognition from the KBB sector, with PWS winning the BKU Award for Best Worksurface Brand for the second consecutive year, followed by success at the KBBReview Awards. “The awards reflect the hard work and


dedication of the whole team,” says James. “Customer support is central to what we do, so being recognised for both our products and our service is particularly meaningful.” The business has also expanded its product


portfolio while securing the WFF Quality Mark, giving the team a strong foundation for continued growth.


Investment and efficiency Behind the scenes, PWS has been focused on strengthening its manufacturing capabilities and creating a platform for sustainable expansion. “Our goal has been to improve manufacturing


efficiency while growing the business in a considered way,” explains James. “Better processes create the right conditions for meaningful growth, and the investments we’ve made are already delivering benefits.” This includes significant investment in


machinery and production processes, designed to increase capacity while maintaining quality and lead times.


New worksurface developments Product innovation remains a key focus, with PWS introducing several new worksurface options across different material categories. “We’ve launched three new engineered stone


worksurfaces, two ultra-compact surfaces and two natural stone worktops,” says James. “The aim is to strengthen the choice available to customers and ensure we’re offering products that meet current market demand.” The changes reflect the wider evolution of


consumer expectations, with retailers and homeowners becoming increasingly knowledgeable about materials, performance and design.


26 BKU JULY 2026 “What stands out is how quickly expectations


around surface materials are changing,” James adds. “Demand for ultra-compact surfaces and engineered stone is increasing, and that has influenced both our product development and our investment in manufacturing capability.” The business has also expanded its product


portfolio coupled with securing the WFF Quality Mark, giving the team a strong foundation for continued growth.


Safety and quality standards The WFF Quality Mark has been an important achievement for PWS, particularly as the industry continues to focus on safe fabrication practices. “It’s an accreditation we’re genuinely proud of,”


says James. “It recognises our commitment to responsible processes, which is especially important given the increasing awareness around silicosis and the need for the industry to take action.” For PWS, the accreditation provides customers and retail partners with additional confidence.


“It validates the approach we’ve always taken,”


James explains. “Safety and responsibility have to be priorities, and the quality mark gives


independent reassurance that these standards are being met.”


Sustainability and future plans Sustainability continues to influence both product development and business decisions, with PWS expanding its range of options that support more environmentally conscious choices. “We know sustainability is becoming more


important to our customers,” says James. “We want to help retailers offer products that align with those expectations without compromising on quality or design.” Looking ahead, the company plans to build on


the progress made so far this year. “We’ll continue expanding our portfolio,


investing in the business and finding new ways to support customers,” James concludes. “The first half of 2026 has given us real momentum, and we’re in a strong position for the months ahead.”


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