The Kitchen Bathroom Buying Group (KBBG), part of DER KREIS, is delighted to unveil its programme of inspirational speakers for the upcoming Annual Members’ Meeting, sponsored by Novy, Rangemaster and Leisure + Rangemaster Sinks & Taps. Taking place on Monday 30th June, the event will be held at a truly unique conference venue nestled within the stunning woodland surroundings of Center Parcs, Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire.
Three external speakers will be presenting at the conference to bring up-to-date insights on crucial business matters, tailored advice for independent KBB specialists, and boosting moral as we hit the halfway point of what is proving to be a demanding year…
Ian O’Donnell MBE, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
Ian O’Donnell is the Deputy Chair of UK Policy at the FSB, where he leads on net zero initiatives. A frequent contributor to regional and national media, Ian works closely with leading decision makers to create a more supportive environment for small businesses to thrive. Ian is also a founder and director of a digital marketing agency and serves as a non-executive director for several SMEs, including the FSB. At the KBBG event, he will address the challenge of prioritising sustainability amid daily business pressures, outlining upcoming legislative changes and offering practical, actionable advice to help members stay ahead and effectively meet net zero goals.
Graeme Chaplin, Bank of England
Graeme Chaplin is a Bank of England Agent with over 30 years of experience with the Bank across roles in London, Manchester, and Birmingham. As a key liaison in the Midlands region, he engages with a wide range of businesses to build up a picture of the UK’s economic and financial landscape. Following his highly engaging session at the 2023 KBBG Members’ Meeting, Graeme is returning to provide an up-to-date economic outlook, sharing valuable insights, data, and practical advice to help members navigate the second half of the year.
Adrian Webster, Motivational Speaker and Best-Selling Author
Highly acclaimed motivational speaker, Adrian Webster will deliver a keynote speech in the afternoon, drawing on his own varied experience in corporate life and the public sector. Warm, witty, engaging and energetic, Adrian inspires individuals and teams with his simple, but highly effective philosophy based on Tiny Noticeable Things (TNTs). Working closely with the KBBG to build a transformative session, tailored to the group’s members, Adrian will share his expertise on customer service, leadership and workplace culture, leaving the audience ready to seize new opportunities and business tactics.
Alongside the three external speakers, KBBG is pleased to welcome its event sponsor to the stage, with a presentation from James Cunningham, Group Sales Director, Middleby Residential, who will showcase the latest innovations designed to elevate kitchen projects. Members will also hear from UKE Home Solutions Ltd, a valued KBBG supplier. Peter Todd, Sales and Operations Director, will outline the commercial advantages of updating showroom displays and unlocking cash from standing stock and pre-owned fitted furniture – while demonstrating how circularity can drive both profitability and sustainability.
Owain Harrison, Managing Director, KBBG, comments: “We are delighted to reveal an outstanding line-up of speakers for this year’s Annual Members’ Meeting. As our members are investing in a day away from their businesses, it’s vital to ensure that our programme provides real value add and leaves them feeling energised and inspired.
“It’s my first annual meeting working with the KBBG, and I am looking forward to getting the day started with the latest market intelligence from JKMR and a pacey but comprehensive refresh of our local UK activity over the last 12 months, but more importantly direction over the next financial year, providing the insight and intelligence to get members ahead. We’ll then hear from DER KREIS Global MD, Ralph Leimbach, who will share updates from the wider buying group before moving onto our programme of speakers. This will be a solid day of connection, learning and fresh ideas, and I look forward to welcoming our members and guests as we explore how to grow stronger, more sustainable businesses together.”
In addition to the conference, the Annual Members’ Meeting will host the group’s suppliers in an engaging exhibition hub. KBBG members will benefit from exclusive offers and be able to discuss new opportunities for their businesses.
KBBG members can register to attend using the link in their invitation. If you are an independent KBB specialist and not a member of the KBBG, call 023 8202 1348 or email info@derkreis.co.uk for more information or to enquire about joining the buying group. You can also visit the website at www.kbbg.co.uk.
Ends
Image captions:
1. Ian O’Donnell MBE, Federation of Small Businesses
2. Graeme Chaplin, Bank of England
3. Adrian Webster, Motivational Speaker and Best-Selling Author
About KBBG:
The Kitchen Bathroom Buying Group UK is an organisation set up to support the business of independent kitchen and bathroom specialists. Part of the renowned DER KREIS, Europe’s leading kitchen and bathroom buying group, the company has over 45 years of experience and a turnover in excess of five billion Euros. Currently operating in 12 countries, with over 4,000 members, DER KREIS provides a range of exclusive tailored benefits and services to support and increase the success of independent kitchen and bathroom specialists, helping them stay ahead of the competition and improving their margin.
For further press information and/or images please contact:
Tessa at jmm PR
E: tessa@jmmpr.co.uk
T: 01536 414555
22nd May 2025
About jmm PR:
jmm PR is an award-winning kitchens and bathrooms PR agency that offers a range of bespoke and innovative marketing services that can make a real difference to your business.
With decades of experience and proven success in raising the profiles and awareness of brands and businesses, jmm PR has extensive public relations and commercial knowledge, which can effectively contribute to the growth of your business. In addition, services include writing press releases, proof reading and copywriting, plus campaign and event support, social media and influencer planning and marketing.
jmm PR offers solutions for businesses of all sizes, including PR packages designed to support SMEs in addition to annual press office management to complement marketing plans of larger organisations.
For more information, please visit the website www.jmmpr.co.uk or contact the team on 01536 414555 or contact@jmmpr.co.uk
