Turning point for the Kbsa?

It may be too early to say but the trade association Kbsa certainly looks to be on the path to success

19 Nov, 18

If you watch TV talent shows, then you will be familiar with ‘the journey’ of all the hopefuls.

As a nation, we usually expect the winner to first experience disappointment, then to grow during the experience, before ultimately achieving their goal. This ‘journey’ delivers a change of fortune for the winner.

It may be too early to say but, following this maxim, the trade association Kbsa certainly looks to be on the path to success.

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Stand under my umbrella

The Kbsa has been through its own trials and turmoils, with arguably its lowest points seeing it lose corporate member John Lewis, and not having enough members at its AGM to create a quorum for voting.

How times have changed!

At its recent AGM, the association reported it is set to achieve its target of attracting a further 150 decision makers as members.

Its recovery seems partly due to the Kbsa refocusing its objectives, with the association no longer solely focused on consumer protection.

It has a renewed emphasis on the needs of its members, concentrating on securing the future of professional independent specialists.

It has had to evolve as the retail market and its demands have changed.

And in a challenging and unpredictable political and economic landscape, this survival mentality is not only much-needed, but also vital for showrooms.

But, in equal measure, the recovery of the association can also be put down to hard work and sheer determination.

It really is a study of perseverance and self-belief in its value to the kitchen and bathroom industry.

Having survived three recessions over its 40-year history, the Kbsa proves to be a case study of resilience for all kitchen and bathroom businesses.

It’s proof that there can be a light at the end of the tunnel.

I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again, never underestimate the strength in numbers, whether that’s as a member of a trade association, buying group, or even a professional business network.

Joining together not only creates a collective force working for the same aim, but also encourages otherwise isolated businesses to share experiences, lessons learned and investigate new ways ahead.

The landscape is ever-changing, which sets its own challenges, but there is undoubtedly greater security when working together.

And perhaps the greatest challenge will be answering just one question: who do you plan to join?