In January BiKBBI offered independent retailers the opportunity for a free, no obligation risk assessment - helping the industry to reduce risk and avoid negativity as we continue trading in uncharted economic times. Later that month, BiKBBI sets its agenda to tackle industry challenges.

The second BiKBBI Annual Awards happened in February, with excellence in installation celebrated once more. The Installer Magazine published a special edition, covering the awards and conference. BiKBBI also published a round up  from the conference, which was hailed a huge success by delegates.

Triton Showers become latest corporate sponsors in March, adding to an impressive portfolio of kbb businesses getting behind BiKBBI. The Institute also published its State of The Industry research, with a stark warning to the industry relating to the skills crisis.

In May BiKBBI's newly formed Education Committee meet in Central London to begin work on a collaborative industry approach to learning and development within the sector.

The mighty sealant brand of CT1 join BiKBBI in June - a huge milestone as more and more brands get behind the organisation.

Dr Stuart Lawrence becomes BiKBBI Diversity Ambassador in July. Stuart brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a powerful voice to promote diversity and inclusivity within the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom (KBB) installation industry. He has been a tireless campaigner for social justice and equality following the tragic murder of his older brother, Stephen, in 1993. His family’s relentless pursuit for justice, along with his dedication to challenging institutional discrimination, continues to have a positive impact on British society.

BiKBBI had a busy month in August. The new Apprenticeship Support Desk opened - an incredibly important service available to potential employers of future apprentices, helping those interested in taking on an apprentice to navigate the topics of employment, recruitment, training and funding. Lakes Showering become a Corporate Sponsor, with MD Mike Gahir and his team keen to support industry learning and development in particular.

Following a visit to Germany, BiKBBI CEO Damian Walters was pleased to announce the arrival of global buying group MHK as Corporate Sponsor - he was particularly interested in the new MHK Installation Academy opened in Germany at the site of their international headquarters. Damian commented by saying "watch this space".

In September, BiKBBI opened the nominations for the third annual awards programme, ahead of the gala evening set for February 6th 2024.

A monumental milestone was reached in September, as The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) was delighted to share the news that the Level 2 Fitted Interiors Installer apprenticeship, which until now has been a pathway within the Furniture Manufacturer apprenticeship standard, has been approved to have its own standard by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.

Director of Marketing & Communication Michelle Daniels departed for her marriage to partner Dean. The BiKBBI team wish Michelle and Dean a happy and healthy marriage and gave best wishes for the big day.

Wren Contracts, part of the Wren Kitchens empire launched and pledged allegiance to BiKBBI as a retail Installation Standards Partner, furthering a highly successful retail partnership to date, although sad news emerged in relation to BiKBBI Independent Inspector Ian Price and his tragic passing.

BiKBBI launched its new and vastly improved website this month, with a new accessibility feature, helping those with neurodiversity to navigate their way around the site and the plethora of useful information.

HISTORY IN THE MAKING... come back soon for an Autumn update.