Tuesday 9 July 2013

KBB buying group launched in the UK

Following a model similar to how the NMBS support independent merchants, Pin Board is pleased to hear of the launch of the Kitchen & Bathroom Buying Group (KBBG)the UK’s first kitchen and bathroom buying group for specialist retailers - which has been established to help independent retailers be more competitive in today’s tough economic climate.

Partly as a result of growing criticism of suppliers for failing to support independent kitchen and bathroom retailers, the German buying group Der Kreis has launched the KBBG which is headed up by Gorenje UK’s former sales director Bill Miller. This is a really encouraging step for the UK KBB sector and needs to be supported and embraced by the whole industry.

“Bill’s strong background and extensive industry relationships are invaluable,” said Marcel Crezee, chief executive of Der Kreis. “His understanding of the independents’ business is instrumental in developing the organisation in the UK, supporting and preserving the independence of retailers for the future.”

If you are looking for a job in the KBB industry or are a distributor or manufacturer looking to recruit, please contact us, the KBB recruitment specialists.

The KBBG’s aim is to support and improve conditions for independent specialists by giving them buying power to compete against larger companies and the internet. Bill's initial focus will be to get manufacturers and retailers in the kitchen sector on board, before targeting the bathroom industry.

With the introduction of a UK division, Der Kreis now has buying groups in nine European countries, including Germany and The Netherlands, and has an annual turnover of €2.2 billion (around £1.8bn)..

The KBBG will be looking to provide a complete and competitive package to retailers including; furniture, appliances, worktops, sinks and taps in its offering.

The KBBG is based in the UK and is made-up of independent retailers who have united to work together in the field of purchasing and marketing within the kitchen and bathroom industry and will also offer a variety of exclusive, interesting and useful business services.

What is the basis of KBBG?
KBBG members stay in control of their own business and decide what benefits or services are useful for their business.

  • Members remain independent and self-employed
  • Members will not affiliate business, you retain your own identity
  • KBBG is not a franchise formula

Why should you join KBBG?
There are many reasons to join the KBBG. Here are some key reasons:

  • Purchasing Advantage through cooperation with other members
  • Product Marketing with distinctive private labels, best buying terms and conditions
  • Payment Advantage and convenience with the Central Payment System (subject to agreement)
  • Training and seminars
  • Information on the internal system INFONET
  • Better business
  • Information Centre for all your questions
  • Support, advice and guidance of entrepreneurs
  • Education and training programs for kitchen specialists
  • Exchange knowledge and meet colleagues at meetings and seminars

More on the KBBG
The KBBG is fully supported by some of the largest and best known kitchen furniture and built-in appliance suppliers in Europe.

The KBBG will be supporting its members with unique and exclusive offers from their partner suppliers as well as generous rebate opportunities.

If you are interested in learning more about what the KBBG has to offer, please contact them.  


With over 30 year’s experience, DER KREIS is one of the largest kitchen and bathroom buying group in Europe and with over 2,700 member retailers in 9 countries, DER KREIS exclusively supports the independent kitchen and bathroom specialist, recognising the skills of the individual and helping create a strong and successful community.

Image courtesy of "Water 3D" by Idea go / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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