Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM JULY 2015 48 A s the premiere trade association for kitchen and bath professionals, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) has been the go-to resource for both industry specialists and consumers worldwide for over 50 years. Boasting over 14,000 member companies and tens of thousands of members in various segments, including distributors, retailers, remodelers, manufacturers, fabricators, installers, designers and more, the NKBA promotes continuing education, leadership and professionalism and ethical business practices for the kitchen and bath industry worldwide. As a member of the NKBA, you'll receive special benefits that not only enhance your career and business, but also expand your knowledge of the industry; networking events, professional development courses, professional discounts and consumer leads are only some of the many significant perks of joining. NKBA is committed to continued professional development—our members can take advantage of NKBA University, which features eight Learning Paths (Design & Inspiration; Communication; Adapt & Innovate; Focus on the Customer; Business Management; Leadership; Sales & Marketing; and Talent Management) with over 300 courses catering to all stages of professional development. NKBA certification is another program that is offered exclusively to members only. Whether becoming an Associate Kitchen & Bath Designer (AKBD), Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD), Certified Bathroom Designer (CBD) or Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD), our certifications allow members to distinguish themselves as experts in their field, as well as maintain their knowledge with continuing education units (CEU's). Networking is one of the key components to any successful business career. NKBA members have the opportunity to connect with over 70 local chapters and form unique partnerships. We also help keep our members informed with various publications, including the NKBA News weekly newsletters, NKBA Magazine, and NKBA connect. NKBA's various social media channels and groups is yet another way to actively network with the industry year round. Gain exclusive insight into the industry and exchange valuable information with industry peers by accessing NKBA member groups on LinkedIn, Facebook and Yammer. By being part of the NKBA's social media groups, you'll have the first look at industry and association news, job postings, advice, tips and trends, live coverage of events and much more. Finally, NKBA membership helps increase your business' visibility—our ProSearch tools help connect members with prospective clients seeking professionals within a specific field. With a quick postal code/address search, homeowners can access a map and listing of NKBA members in the area. As an NKBA member, you can also take advantage of our tent- pole events, including the annual Design Competition, which features cash prizes and recognition for the best of the industry, as well as the 30 Under 30 and Professional of the Year programs which recognize the best and brightest in the industry. Exhibitor members receive a special discount for booth space and attendee members receive special pricing on the EXPO pass as well as the Voices from the Industry Conference (VFTI) at the annual NKBA- owned Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS). As the largest trade show worldwide for the kitchen and bath industry, KBIS provides a comprehensive forum for hundreds of exhibitors to showcase new ideas, products and services. Featuring roundtable events, conferences, educational courses and much, much more, KBIS is the industry standard for developing professional connections. At NKBA, we empower our members to become leaders in the kitchen and bath industry, and we're committed to providing the best resources to promote excellence– because the most effective way to lead is through networking and learning. For more information on NKBA membership and benefits, please visit NKBA.org/Join or call the Member Relations team at 1-800-843-6522 or email feedback@nkba.org. NKBA: EM POWERING M EM BERS THROUGH NETWORKING & LEARNING A S S O C I A T I O N N E W S RO

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