Big promises, a new boss and a structural shake-up at the KBSA.
New managing director Luke Wedgbury joins Andy Davies to set out his manifesto for change – and explains why he and the board want to give independent retailers compelling new reasons to join while potentially making it harder to get in.
As the owner of Coalville Kitchens in Leicestershire, Wedgbury knows that a badge on the showroom door means very little if membership doesn’t help you run a better business. Recorded at The Belfry following his first speech in the role, this conversation explores how he intends to turn ambition into action.
With trading tough and good staff hard to find, what can the association actually do to help? Can it create a culture where retailers talk openly about their problems? And how does it convince consumers that choosing a KBSA member matters?
Plus, entries are open for the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2027, with categories for retailers, designers, rising stars, unsung heroes and supplier teams. The deadline is 5pm on Thursday, November 12. Find everything you need to enter at kbbreview.com/awards.
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