Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM AUGUST 2023 30 A S S O C I AT I O N [ N E W S ] I ndependent showrooms play a critical role in the kitchen and bath industry, serving as a conduit between K&B product manufacturers and the consumers, builders, designers, and remodelers that purchase their products. Recognizing the importance of showrooms in the industry, NKBA conducted a thorough research survey to provide insights into the showrooms segment – and judging by the results of this research which was published in the association's 2023 Independent Kitchen and Bath Showroom report, showrooms are going strong. Here are some top findings from the report, which explores the current state and future direction of independent kitchen and bath showrooms in the U.S. THE IMPORTANCE OF SHOWROOMS TO RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELING Homeowners, often accompanied by an industry professional, generate three times more revenue for showrooms than builders, designers, and contractors. Many of these homeowners are buying for designer-led as well as DIY projects. That said, the majority of homeowners turn to professionals for direction in remodeling — which includes visiting showrooms or stores. About 71% of homeowners start their remodeling project by personally meeting with professionals first, with 24% reporting they consulted a builder/contractor, 24% consulting a designer, and 23% consulting a showroom/store. When visiting showrooms, homeowners go for design inspiration and ideas. Consumers surveyed also admitted that they have much to learn about product features, pricing, and brands when they first visit a showroom. And that's why they go — to see and touch the products and to learn. When shopping in a showroom, homeowners are much more likely to make a purchase. In fact, only 6% of homeowners who shopped in a showroom didn't make their final purchases there. Furthermore, two- thirds of homeowners said that, after learning about the available brands and product features/functionality, they upgraded to higher- quality materials, finishes, and products. On average, these upgrades account for a 31% increase in K&B product costs. TOP CONCERNS AND CREATIVE SOLUTIONS The top concerns of showroom dealers and designers are issues outside their control, with high levels of concern reported around supply chain/product availability, recession, inflation, and labor shortages. However, this sector of the kitchen and bath industry has seen steady sales over the last two years, with most showrooms surveyed predicting strong and steady growth for the immediate future as well. The top internal challenges facing showroom dealers were keeping their products current, and attracting visitors. This came as a surprise SHOWROOMS PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN K&B INDUSTRY According to recently-released nkba research

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