INDUSTRY VIEWS
INDUSTRY VIEWS Challenges and opportunities
The cost-of-living crisis is yet to have a significant impact on independent KBB retailers. The new housing market is strong, which helps, along with kitchens being in demand for renovation projects already underway. Many KBB specialists fear a tough year, as consumers tighten the purse strings because of the
higher cost-of-living. However, it’s important for retailers to hold their nerve, the drop-off in business due to the Covid-19 pandemic wasn’t as bad as predicted. Use any downtime to ensure your showroom is up-to-date with new displays and your lead generation strategy is strong. Two of the biggest challenges still facing most KBB retailers is appliance stock shortages, and the
scale of supplier price increases, which cannot be absorbed by retailers. Many retailers are using this as an opportunity to explore new suppliers. Importantly, be honest with your customers, making them aware of potential delays and the need to make a decision in order to fix the price.
Comment by Bill Miller, Managing Director, Kitchen Bathroom Buying Group (KBBG)
Key brassware colours for the year ahead
Bathroom brassware continues to follow the latest trends and style directions. While chrome will continue to form a core part of any retail offering, it is essential to diversify your portfolio. Look to include trend-led colourways such as brass, black, and gunmetal grey, which will satisfy consumer demand well into 2023.
Gunmetal Grey A modern twist on a classic look, gunmetal grey has a unique, darker mix of grey with blue undertones, giving it that metallic feel.
Matt Black Soaring in popularity over recent years, matt black accents are guaranteed to sell and are easy to match with other vital design elements. Incorporating these into the bathroom allows the brassware to do the talking.
Comment by Julianna Andrews, Marketing Manager, Aqualla / Adamsez
Brushed Brass Ideal for adding an elegant touch to bathrooms, brushed brass fittings complement a multitude of modern interior trends from art deco to Scandi- inspired spaces.
Leading in uncertain times
It feels nearly impossible to escape from the unending stream of global unrest and financial upheaval in the world right now. Despite this, the importance of leadership is magnified more than ever and there are 3 key concepts we can use when leading people.
Inform People will naturally become more anxious as they struggle to make sense of the changing landscape we are currently in. Communicating openly and honestly from the offset will help combat this.
Guide In uncertain times, people want strong leaders who provide clear instructions and state what to do, and not what not to do. Give steady advice and empower employees to be part of the solution within that framework.
Unite One guarantee is that turbulent times remind people of the importance of the human community, which people value. Leaders can pull their employees closer together by reinforcing what makes them a unique group. Overall, it’s about being
open and staying positive where possible. Good luck to us all!
Comment by David Mosley, Managing Director, Trojan
6 BKU NOVEMBER 2022
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