2015 was a monumental year for the BiKBBI. It attracted new Installation Standards Partners Omega PLC and Symphony Group PLC and plans were made for the launch of an apprenticeship initiative targeting the next generation of kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installers.

The 3,800th member was welcomed in the summer of 2015 as well and an announcement was made for a new and innovative accreditation grading system, expanding membership from domestic installers to include contract site installers, appliance engineers, fabricators as well as allowing for recognition of more experienced members with the new ‘Master Member’ grading.

The iKBBI also announced strategic collaborations with some huge brands, including the consumer watchdog Which? and their Trusted Trader division. Collaborations with CAPITA (the business responsible for the Gas Safe Register) and The Furniture Ombudsman (TFO) were also announced in 2015. New sponsors Currys PC World and Trade-Up Kitchens committed to vital financial support.

The iKBBI also sponsored the inaugural Scottish Home Improvement Awards, reaching out to businesses and consumers north of the boarder. Commitment was also made to support KBB Birmingham 2016, as well as Installer Live and UK Construction Week 2016.

The iKBBI Installer Magazine was re-launched in the spring of 2015, with a circulation to the KBB industry of circa 10,000+. The magazine forms part of a wider communication strategy, which included the appointment of a new head office Communications Manager role.

The iKBBI Inspection Network launched in November and will play an important role supporting the Furniture Ombudsman and the newly launched Consumer Rights Act (2015) and Alternative Dispute Resolution. Inspection will also play a huge role in the BiKBBI offering moving forward.