INDUSTRY INDUSTRY VIEWS VIEWS


Kitchen retailers should explore the virtues of having a Contracts Division


We believe it’s vital for every kitchen retailer to give serious consideration to branching out into the contract interiors sector as part of their growth strategy and commercial succession planning. According to the ONS, with the UK population projected to rise to 69.2 million by mid-2030 and to 71.0 million by mid-2045, there is set to be even more opportunity to work with architects and builders on homes which are tailored to specific demographics; whether that is super-premium branded residences, multi-generational family homes, student accommodation, eco-homes, retirement living or social housing.


There are also reports of considerable opportunities for contract work in the East Midlands, South West and the Core Cities of the UK given projections for development. Targets for London to be net zero carbon by 2030 also underline the importance of sustainable kitchen design. As such, kitchen retailers are well placed to serve the contracts market, whether working with local authorities, branded residences, housebuilders or alongside property developers and specialist interior designers.


Comment by Chris Reeves, Director, Glotech


Unleashing bespoke kitchen potential with custom paint options


In a world marked by market uncertainty and rising living costs, consumers still strive for the perfect blend of good design, value, and quality when it comes to investing in their homes There is also a growing desire for design personalisation, and, while current trends like Japandi and Green are gaining attention, many consumers want to go beyond the mainstream and put their own unique mark on their kitchen.


Offering the option to “paint to order” opens up a world of possibilities, allowing consumers to choose from a vast range of paint options, from a standard palette to brand matching. In an uncertain world, it’s comforting for them to be able to express their personality and shape their home environment in this way. It fulfils an emotional need.


For retailers, incorporating this option into their armoury offers significant benefits. By embracing the potential of custom paint options, they can tap into the growing desire for bespoke looks, giving them a point of differentiation that can be delivered on,


without prohibitive lead times. While the


Comment by Neil Taggart Marketing Manager, TKC


6 BKU JUNE 2023


consumers colour choice may be of- the-moment, the quality of the finished product is timeless. And the flexibility of paint to order allows for relatively easy updates if the consumer ever tires of their current look.


KBB appliances must meet and drive demand for sustainable consumption


Climate change is a real and growing crisis. Whilst there has been a significant shift in purchasing patterns to buy greener alternatives, brands have a duty to educate, inform and provide products that prevent over consumption. Looking at the KBB sector, we are not collectively doing enough. As manufacturers, we must take responsibility for making products that help people live greener lives, conserve resources and are made responsibly.


Looking specifically at water as a resource to be protected, there have been impressive technical developments in the boiling tap sector. Whilst the average UK household still uses an average of 360 single-use plastic bottles per year, there are now water modes available that help reduce this by providing sparkling, boiling and filtered water on demand; eliminating unnecessary plastic and water. An example of where clever appliance innovation is creating a more sustainable long-term solution.


Comment by Stephen Johnson Managing Director, Quooker


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