INDUSTRY UPDATE WORKTOP FABRICATORS FEDERATION


Why join the Worktop Fabricators Federation (WFF)?


professionalism, product confidence and seamless customer journeys. For those who sell or specify surfaces – especially stone, quartz and engineered worktops – joining theWorktop Fabricators Federation (WFF) isn’t just about networking; it’s a strategic step that strengthens credibility, enhances technical confidence and directly supports the relationship between showroom and installer. WFF membership signals to these decision-makers that a retailer or showroom partner is aligned with high standards of workmanship and ethical business practices. This is especially important in a category where surfaces are a central part of kitchen and bathroom projects and where consumer expectations are high. Oneofthe federation’s key missions is to promote


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professionalism and best practice across the supply chain – from fabricators to retailers to installers. Being part ofWFF means your business stays up to date with the latest in health and safety regulations, material handling, and fabrication methods. This up-to-the-minute insight helps retailers advise customers confidently, reducing uncertainty and callbacks down the line. For specifiers and showroom professionals, WFF membership also enhances the trust factor when recommending worktops. In a sector where surface choice can be overwhelming and technical, having an association stamp of approval helps differentiate your offering and reassures clients that they’re investing in products that are supplied and installed to recognised standards. Perhaps most compelling is the wayWFF bridges gaps between design


intent, fabrication execution and installation.With collaborative links into installation bodies and resources designed to educate professionals across disciplines, members gain access to shared knowledge that elevates the entire project chain – from showroom floor to finished installation. In an industry driven by quality, reputation and customer satisfaction,


joining the Worktop Fabricators Federation is a proactive way for kitchen and bathroom retailers to strengthen their proposition, reinforce professionalism and stand out in a crowded market.


07591 339 144 office@worktopfabricators.org www.worktopfabricators.org


50 BKU MARCH 2026


s theUKkitchen and bathroom market continues to evolve, suppliers and retailers are increasingly focused on


Simon Acres Group hosts Bence family in podcast special


Simon Acres interviewing Paul Bence and Chris Bence


latest podcast episode – a combinedMovers&Shakers and Industry Legends special, marking a first for the series. Sponsored by BKU, the episode features SimonAcres in conversation with Paul Bence, Managing Director of George Bence Group and his father, Chris Bence about their success as a family-run, independent builders’merchant. Established in 1854, George Bence Group has 10 branches including its Obsidian kitchen and bathroom showrooms. Paul and Chris talk openly about what it’s like to be part of a family-run business, the current challenges that they are facing and provide advice for similar businesses. The conversation begins with a look back at the heritage of George Bence Group and its defining moments, including a devastating but ultimately transformative fire at its premises in the year 2000. Paul then explains how the current period is the toughest he has ever seen in his 25 years with the company largely due to the increased business cost pressures such as Employer National Insurance. Expressing that George Bence Group’s ‘people’ are its greatest asset, Paul states the importance of valuing employees and to keep smiling and moving forward through challenging times. Further obstacles such as inheritance tax was also discussed, as well as


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the current lack of consumer confidence, which is leading them to delay investment decisions such as home renovations. On the other hand, product diversification, cashflow and being part of a wider network such as theNMBS are mentioned as being key drivers for success. Additionally, Simon put key questions to Paul and Chris, including how merchants can improve footfall at their trade counters. Tactics such as incentive schemes and promotions were discussed with an emphasis on the importance of being different. The conversation also covered the subject of apprenticeships and the importance of encouraging young people into the industry. Simon Acres Group podcasts are available on listen to on Spotify and


Apple Podcasts. You can also find the latest episode here: www.simonacres.co.uk/podcasts and watch the interview on YouTube.


pecialist recruitment consultancy, and online training provider, SimonAcres Group Limited has unveiled its


www.simonacres.co.uk


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