KBB Industry Conference 2023 - Ingenuity & Building Success

The Kbsa conference was held on Wednesday 27 September at The Belfry Hotel & Resort, West Midlands with the popular retailer dinner on the evening before the conference on Tuesday 26 September.

Non-members were once again invited to attend and journalist and broadcaster Juliet Morris also returned as conference host.

The 'Big Debate' was also be back for another year. We were excited to hear the thoughts of panel contributors, Luke Wedgbury - Coalville Kitchens & Bedrooms Ltd, Joanna Geddes - Kitchens by J S Geddes, Elizabeth Pantling-Jones - Lima Kitchens and Graham Robinson - Halcyon Interiors. 

KBB Industry Conference Highlights

 

 

Professor Charles Spence - Keynote Speaker

Professor Charles Spence, head of the Crossmodal Research Laboratory at the Department of Experimental Psychology, Oxford University, and author of Sensehacking: How to use the power of your senses for happier, healthier living, will present as keynote speaker at the KBB Industry conference on 27 September.

Professor Spence discussed some of the ways we can all more intelligently stimulate our senses in the home to support our health and social, cognitive, and emotional well-being.  His presentation focused on ‘sensehacking’ our showrooms, exploring how we can transform them into a multi-sensory experience that enhances both the design and sales process.   He also demonstrated how the home environment has a much more profound effect on us than any of us probably realise.

Mike Bradley - Guest Speaker

Mike Bradley, founder of Josef.network, is an Oxford graduate, with over 20 years’ experience of working with renowned global brands on digital innovation, strategic planning and technology adoption.  He currently leads a team providing end-to-end AI solutions and experiences personalised for each client.

Mike explored how to unleash new potential for inspiration and innovation through artificial intelligence. He shared insights into how AI can be strategically implemented to transform businesses by reimagining what’s possible. He also highlighted opportunities for AI to spark ingenuity and enhance experiences.

Andy McLachlan - Guest Speaker

Andy returned as his presentation last year was so engaging and thought-provoking. He is an advocate for positive change and has a mission to help change business culture, which resonates with KBB retailers. This year his focus was on well-being in the workplace.

Juliet Morris - Conference Facilitator

Journalist and broadcaster Juliet Morris returned as conference facilitator. Juliet welcomed the guests at the start of the conference and introduced each of the speakers and elements throughout the day. Juliet also facilitated 'The Big Debate' in the afternoon.  This will brought together retailers and others involved in the industry to consider some of the most important challenges facing the sector.

Russell Kane - Kbsa Designer Awards Host

Multi-award-winning comedian, presenter, actor, author and scriptwriter Russell Kane hosted the 2023 Kbsa Designer Awards. Russell has two chart-topping, award-bagging podcasts: Man Baggage and BBC Radio 4’s Evil Genius. He is a regular on Channel 4, BBC, and ITV: Recent TV appearances include The Apprentice: You’re Fired, The One Show, Live at the Apollo, The Stand Up Sketch Show, Michael McIntyre’s Big Show as well as regular appearances on Steph’s Packed Lunch.

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