KBBG MD Owain Harrison on what to look forward to at this year's AMM

Taking place on 30^th June 2025 at Center Parcs, Sherwood Forest, is the 12^th instalment of the KBBG Annual Members’ Meeting (AMM) – Owain Harrison talks about his first members’ event since taking over as MD of the KBBG in January this year.

Q: Tell us about the speaker line-up – how did you choose who to include?
A: I’m elated with the stellar line-up of speakers we have secured for this year’s event. The time that our members spend away from the day-to-day running of their businesses is precious. Consequently, we've selected 3 inspiring external speakers to share their insights on the crucial matters shaping our industry.

Inviting Graeme Chaplin from the Bank of England back to speak to our members required little deliberation. The economy has gone through a tremendous number of changes in the last 2 years alone. Therefore, to provide our members with updates and advice, while giving them the opportunity to ask the tough questions, we had to include the Bank of England in our 2025 agenda.

Sustainability continues to be a hot topic in our industry, and with the upcoming legislative changes it was essential to cover this at our 2025 AMM, ensuring our members have the tools and support for when the changes are implemented. Ian O'Donnell MBE, deputy chair of UK Policy at the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), brings unique insight and expertise to our members. Having started and managed his own businesses, combined with experience in shaping environmental policy solutions for SMEs, Ian can offer practical, achievable steps relevant to our members’ businesses.

As we explore how to grow stronger together, our afternoon keynote session promises to be nothing short of transformative. Adrian Webster, a highly acclaimed motivational speaker and author, will share his expertise on customer service, leadership and workplace culture, leaving the audience ready to seize new opportunities and business tactics.

Event sponsors Novy, Rangemaster, and Leisure + Rangemaster Sinks & Taps will also take to the stage, with a presentation from James Cunningham, group sales director, Middleby Residential. You will also hear from Peter Todd, sales & operations director at Rehome, who will outline the commercial advantages of updating showroom displays and unlocking cash from standing stock and pre-owned fitted furniture – demonstrating how circularity can drive both profitability and sustainability.

Q: What can members expect to see in the suppliers’ exhibition area?
A: From appliances and gadgets to furniture and brassware, our suppliers’ exhibition hub will be jam-packed with value for our members. Center Parcs, Sherwood Forest, is providing a fantastic area for our suppliers, and for the first time ever, some displays will even be set up outside! Suppliers are vital to the KBBG’s success, and we’re delighted with the calibre of brands seeing the true value of the independent channel year on year. There will be new suppliers to meet, product demonstrations, exclusive offers and as always, plenty of time and space for invaluable networking. It’s going to be a day to remember.

Q: What's in store for the KBBG for the remainder of 2025?
A: We continually work on strengthening our offering for our members, whether that involves bringing new suppliers and categories into the mix, hosting webinars, or increasing sales opportunities via our consumer portal, mykitchenspecialist.co.uk. There are some exciting developments on the horizon for the KBBG. I’m looking forward to infusing the group with my spirit and raising the bar even higher. Watch this space.

KBBG members can register to attend using the link in their invitation. If you are not a member, email [email protected] for more information.