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Movers & Shakers - KBB and Merchants

Movers & Shakers - KBB and Merchants

By: Simon Acres & Kordian Pach
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About this listen

 The Movers and Shakers project is an initiative designed by Simon Acres Group to highlight and celebrate emerging talent within the Kitchen, Bedroom, and Bathroom (KBB) and Merchants industry.

It aims to showcase the individuals who are making a significant impact—whether they are young professionals, apprentices, or those who have recently joined the sector and are driving innovation and excellence.

Through a series of interviews, case studies, and media features, Movers and Shakers provides a platform for these rising stars to share their experiences, career journeys, and insights into the industry.

The project also aims to inspire others to consider a career in KBB by demonstrating the diverse opportunities available, from design and sales to installation and manufacturing.

By engaging industry leaders, businesses, and trade associations, Movers and Shakers helps create visibility for fresh talent and encourages companies to invest in the next generation of professionals. The project underscores the importance of apprenticeships, training, and career development within the KBB sector, ensuring a sustainable and thriving future for the industry.Copyright Simon Acres & Kordian Pach Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Movers and shakers: Collaboration over competition - supporting the Kitchen Industry

    Movers and shakers: Collaboration over competition - supporting the Kitchen Industry
    Aug 20 2025
    Movers & Shakers Podcast: Supporting the Kitchen Industry with Aron Collins & Steve Allen In this special edition of the Movers and Shakers series from Simon Acres Group, Simon sits down in Chester with Aron Collins from Dunavox and Steve Allen to talk about the kitchen industry, the value of collaboration, and how to inspire the next generation of professionals. What is this podcast episode about? This conversation goes beyond products and sales—it’s about people, passion, and progress in the kitchen and design industry. Simon, Aron, and Steve reflect on:
    • How supporting one another has shaped their 30-year friendships and careers.
    • The challenges and opportunities of working in today’s fast-changing industry.
    • The importance of mentoring, apprenticeships, and giving newcomers a chance.
    • How brands like Dunavox are growing in the UK and responding to customer needs.
    • Why building strong relationships, sharing ideas, and “giving back” makes the whole industry stronger.
    What questions were answered? Throughout the episode, Simon asks Aron and Steve to reflect on their journeys and share practical insights. They answer:
    • How did you get into the industry?
      From warehouse work and architecture studies, to kitchen design at IKEA and beyond, both guests share how unexpected starts led to lasting careers.
    • What advice would you give to someone starting out?
      Get your foot in the door—whether through apprenticeships, receptionist roles, or simply visiting showrooms and asking questions. Passion and persistence open opportunities.
    • How can the industry encourage more installers and young talent?
      Use resources like YouTube and social media to learn the basics, then seek hands-on experience with independent studios. Apprenticeships and mentorship are key.
    • What is Dunavox and how is it growing in the UK?
      Aron explains how Dunavox, already established across Europe, is expanding in the UK with a focus on wine coolers, shelf ventilation models, and premium appliance solutions.
    • How do retailers connect better with customers?
      By listening first, understanding what customers want—whether a statement piece or practical storage—and using visuals, technology, and storytelling to guide choices.
    • What lessons have you learned in your career?
      Both guests share personal stories about stepping outside their comfort zones, learning from mistakes (including a forklift crash!), and discovering that growth often comes through challenges.
    Why should you listen? If you’re in the kitchen and design sector—whether you’re a newcomer, a retailer, or a long-time professional—this episode is full of inspiration and practical takeaways:
    • Advice on starting a career in the industry.
    • Insights into how to connect with customers and retailers.
    • Real stories of resilience, growth, and collaboration.
    • A reminder that the industry thrives when people support and celebrate each other.
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    21 mins
  • Movers Shakers: Behind the Hinges: How Blum Is Shaping the Future of the KBB Industry

    Movers Shakers: Behind the Hinges: How Blum Is Shaping the Future of the KBB Industry
    Aug 20 2025
    Behind the Hinges: How Blum Is Shaping the Future of the KBB Industry


    Insights from Andrea Hillier on the Movers & Shakers Podcast by Simon Acres GroupThe kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom (KBB) industry is evolving — and at the heart of that evolution is Blum, a name synonymous with intelligent design, user-centric innovation, and long-term industry leadership. In the latest episode of the Movers & Shakers podcast, hosted by Tobias Waltham from Simon Acres Group, we sit down with Andrea Hillier, Customer Engagement Lead at Blum, to explore what it really takes to stay ahead in today’s competitive KBB market.With nearly 30 years of experience at Blum, Andrea shares not just her personal journey from part-time starter to leadership, but also the company’s values, vision, and the strategies that keep them at the top.













    🎙️ What’s the conversation about?This episode dives deep into:
    • Andrea’s unique career path and what it means to grow alongside a brand
    • Blum’s commitment to education and customer experience, including hands-on training and experience days
    • The company’s forward-thinking approach to design, addressing key societal trends like aging in place, multi-generational living, and ergonomics
    • Why diversity and inclusion are more than buzzwords — and how Blum embeds them into workplace culture
    • The power of apprenticeships and how Blum is nurturing future talent worldwide
    • And, importantly, how the KBB industry can re-ignite excitement among the next generation
    ✅ Key takeaways & answers this podcast delivers:
    • How can a company retain top talent for decades?
      ➤ By building purpose-driven roles, offering growth, and creating a culture that supports learning and loyalty.
    • What does it take to stay relevant in a digital-first world?
      ➤ Blum blends traditional, hands-on training with modern innovation, ensuring relevance without losing human connection.
    • How can we attract young talent to the KBB sector?
      ➤ By making the industry visible, valuable, and exciting — and offering clear career development paths like apprenticeships.
    • What role does diversity play in manufacturing and design today?
      ➤ Blum views diversity as essential, not optional — embedding inclusive thinking into both culture and product development.
    • Why does product education matter so much?
      ➤ Because when customers and designers understand the value behind each product, they sell with passion and authenticity.
    🔍 Why this episode mattersIn a time where industries are facing rapid digital transformation, economic pressure, and generational shifts, this episode serves as a reminder that people, purpose, and passion still sit at the core of great business.Whether you’re a designer, showroom owner, apprentice, or industry veteran, this conversation offers real insight into how a globally respected company like Blum continues to lead — not just in product, but in culture.🎧 Catch the full episode on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
    👉 And don’t forget to follow Simon Acres Group for more conversations that move the industry forward.#MoversAndShakers #Blum #KBBLeadership #CustomerExperience #InclusiveDesign #Apprenticeships #Innovation #SimonAcresGroup #FutureOfKBB #BehindTheScenes
    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
  • Movers Shakers Legislation changes for ventilation in kitchen and bathrooms

    Movers Shakers Legislation changes for ventilation in kitchen and bathrooms
    Jul 16 2025
    Legislation changes for ventilation in kitchen and bathroomsThe need for installers and retailers to be aware of new legislation relating to ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms, is highlighted in the latest Movers & Shakers film from Simon Acres Group Limited.Simon Acres Group MD, Simon Acres spoke with Carolyn Newton-Brown, head of UK Reseller Channel and Ian Palmer, Head of UK Specification at Airflow to discuss how they can help the industry understand the legislation and ensure projects are compliant.“We are committed to providing knowledge, education and training to allow retailers and installers to select the right product, install it correctly and carry out the necessary testing,” said Carolyn.“There is new legislation that relates to ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms that requires products to be tested and fit for purpose. Checks will be carried out by Local Authority Building Control, and fines could be imposed if installations do not meet the new regulations.


    “Whilst it is the owner of the building that is liable, professional installers have a responsibility and duty of care to ensure that the customer understands what is required and that the regulations have been met.”Ian explained that the Airflow website has a wealth of information. He says, “The knowledge centre includes the most up to date regulations and the ‘product selector’ function can identify the most appropriate product based on the criteria selected.“We also offer training both on-line and at our training facility in High Wycombe that is certified by CIBSE, NICEIC and the RIBA.“The state-of-the-art Air Academy training facility and experience is open to any KBB retailer or installer that wants to come and understand more about the products available, as well as to undertake training. We offer the NICEIC Ventilation Installer Training Scheme, from the centre. This course lasts two days and is modestly priced. Making it affordable and accessible to all.”
    Show More Show Less
    52 mins
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