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
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    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.”
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    52 mins
  • Movers Shakers with Hayley Robson Creative Director at Day True Architectural Interiors - Part 2

    Movers Shakers with Hayley Robson Creative Director at Day True Architectural Interiors - Part 2
    Jul 16 2025
    Day True Hayley Robson feature in new Movers and Shakers film from Simon AcresAward winning designer Hayley Robson at Day True is the latest designer to take part in the ‘Movers and Shakers’ series with Simon Acres Group MD, Simon Acres.Hayley who is Creative Director and co-founder of the business shared the ethos of the Day True difference and their approach to design, which is focused on how to solve problems, reveal potential and improve lives.Hayley explained how each and every customer is different and that the process begins by taking a real interest in their lives, as knowing how they live is what enables the creation of designs that make life better.Increasingly projects extend beyond the kitchen and the bathroom into the rest of the home, which allows the concept of a complete living space to be explored.Hayley says: ” We love getting to know our customers. They often come to us having done their own research and having an idea of what they want. We always start by listening but then we like to question and suggest, enabling us to offer solutions that optimise the space available, and provide designs that make homes which are easy to live in, productive, joyous and relaxing.”Hayley acknowledged that having the best team of people is crucial to the successful running of their business and that they look to employ those who have the right attitude towards customer care and a passion for design.“We want to employ those that are looking to inspire and ready to learn,” says Hayley.“Experience can be gained and skills can be taught but we are a people business so finding the right people is essential.”
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    28 mins
  • Movers Shakers with Hayley Robson Creative Director at Day True Architectural Interiors Part 1

    Movers Shakers with Hayley Robson Creative Director at Day True Architectural Interiors Part 1
    Jul 16 2025
    Day True Hayley Robson feature in new Movers and Shakers film from Simon AcresAward winning designer Hayley Robson at Day True is the latest designer to take part in the ‘Movers and Shakers’ series with Simon Acres Group MD, Simon Acres.Hayley who is Creative Director and co-founder of the business shared the ethos of the Day True difference and their approach to design, which is focused on how to solve problems, reveal potential and improve lives.Hayley explained how each and every customer is different and that the process begins by taking a real interest in their lives, as knowing how they live is what enables the creation of designs that make life better.Increasingly projects extend beyond the kitchen and the bathroom into the rest of the home, which allows the concept of a complete living space to be explored.Hayley says: ” We love getting to know our customers. They often come to us having done their own research and having an idea of what they want. We always start by listening but then we like to question and suggest, enabling us to offer solutions that optimise the space available, and provide designs that make homes which are easy to live in, productive, joyous and relaxing.”Hayley acknowledged that having the best team of people is crucial to the successful running of their business and that they look to employ those who have the right attitude towards customer care and a passion for design.“We want to employ those that are looking to inspire and ready to learn,” says Hayley.“Experience can be gained and skills can be taught but we are a people business so finding the right people is essential.”
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    17 mins
  • Movers and Shakers with Angela Borman

    Movers and Shakers with Angela Borman
    Jul 16 2025
    Breaking Down Barriers to ApprenticeshipsDuring our Careers Day events, we uncovered several barriers that deter businesses from hiring apprentices. Many of these obstacles stem from misinformation or uncertainty about where to find reliable information.The apprenticeship process can be complex and, unfortunately, is often poorly promoted. This can lead business owners to abandon their search for answers prematurely.We were fortunate to meet Angela Borman, Chair of the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, who shared valuable insights on addressing these challenges.If you’re considering hiring an apprentice, we highly recommend watching the full interview. Angela not only addresses the common barriers but also provides answers to key questions and shares links to resources that can guide you in implementing an apprenticeship program in your business.Useful Links from the Interview:
    • Understanding Jargon – Find a glossary of apprenticeship terms:

      Apprenticeship Glossary | UCAS
    • How to Hire an Apprentice – Learn about the process and where to start:

      Recruiting an Apprentice | apprenticeships.gov.uk
    • Costs and Grants – Understand funding, who pays what, and when:

      Get Funding for Apprenticeship Training | GOV.UK
    • Wage Brackets – Find details about the National Minimum Wage:

      The National Minimum Wage in 2023 | GOV.UK
    By addressing these barriers and accessing the right resources, your business can successfully embark on the apprenticeship journey.
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    44 mins
  • Movers and shakers with Maria Stapperfenne Orlando

    Movers and shakers with Maria Stapperfenne Orlando
    Jul 16 2025
    The Movers and Shakers film with Maria Stapperfenne – US-based designerKBB and merchant services provider Simon Acres Group (SAGL) has released a new film in its Movers & Shakers series, with Maria Stapperfenne, a certified kitchen and bathroom designer, and past president of the NKBA, which was filmed at the KBIS exhibition in Orlando, earlier this year.The film is the second that looks at the differences between the KBB market in the US and the UK, the first being with award-winning New York-based designer Mark Rosenhaus.The launch of this film also marks the Simon Acres Group commitment to The NKBA Global Connect programme, established to foster opportunities in the North American kitchen and bathroom sectors for British companies.The Maria Stapperfenne film explores some of differences in how people begin and progress their careers in the KBB industry in the US and the UK, Maria’s business tips and views on how best to engage with customers and secure sales, and a look at the most popular design trends in the American market.Simon Acres Group MD Simon Acres said: “It was fascinating to hear how the business model in the USA is different to that in the UK. Understanding more about the market, will be beneficial to those companies that want to learn new ideas or expand into the US.“The US market offers superb potential for growth, for our business and many other that we work with. We have a strong partnership internationally with 2020 Fusion Live training and have already booked our place at the next KBIS in 2024, which will be held in Las Vegas.”
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    31 mins
  • Movers Shakers Sharon L Sherman

    Movers Shakers Sharon L Sherman
    Jul 16 2025
    KBB industry behind “the Pond” Simon Acres interviewing Sharon L. Sherman during KBIS 2023 in Las VegasSimon Acres interviewing Sharon L. Sherman during KBIS 2023 in Las Vegas As we prepare for KBIS 2024, let’s take a moment to look back at some memorable insights from Thyme & Design’s owner, Sharon L Sherman, a true Mover and Shaker in our industry. In her first Smart tip, Sharon shares valuable advice on effectively communicating how a product will be delivered to your customers, ultimately enhancing their experience. Furthermore, she discusses an innovative approach to sales – being social, dressing the part, and embracing influencer marketing. Sharon also highlights the benefits of accessing the trade association NKBA’s Training Platform content. Discover the social media platforms that have played a pivotal role in supporting Sharon’s business, her experiences with the apprenticeship journey in the North American market, and the vital role of installers. Sharon offers valuable insights on hiring the best talent based on attitude and shares why the North American consumer has a penchant for British heritage. Explore the advantages of considering a new, vibrant, and growing market.
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    14 mins