MHK UK, part of Europe’s leading buying group for KBB retailers, showcased the many benefits of partnership at this year’s InstallerSHOW in Birmingham. Joined at the show by current members who have made the move from exclusively being an installation business to a KBB business, MHK set its intentions to support installers in their growth journey.

Based in the BiKBBI village, MHK offered a free ‘Advice Shop’ for installers for the duration of the show in which visitors could drop in to ask any burning business questions. In addition, MHK introduced its #kitchenfamily – a kitchen concept in cooperation with Bauformat – which is ideal for those who are new to setting up a showroom thanks to flexible support across displays, credit and marketing.

David Morris, Sales Director at MHK UK said: “We have been observing for years how more installers are developing as entrepreneurs and opening their own kitchen studios. This boldness and evolution of the industry deserves our full encouragement. This is exactly what we were supporting together with Bauformat via #kitchenfamily and also our Advice Shop at this year’s InstallerSHOW: we are providing answers for a successful and secure start in the specialised kitchen retail sector – openly and individually.”

Tom Baldwin, founder of Signature Projects who attending InstallerSHOW2025 said: “The Installer industry is experiencing a period of change. We are spending a lot of time talking about the skills shortage and lack of new apprenticeship which is of course very important. However, MHK’s focus on the entrepreneurial side of installation is very inspiring and I hope it will show potential new entrants into the industry what can be achieved when you aim high. Being an installer is not just about being “on the tools”, there is real scope to be a successful and profitable business owner if you have support across cashflow, business advice and access to suppliers. For me, membership has been invaluable, and other installers are now waking up to the benefits of a partner like MHK.”

A safe space for questions: the MHK UK Advice Shop

The ‘Advice Shop’ offered trade visitors to the BiKBBI Village a direct line to the experts from MHK UK. The transition from installer to retailer is a bold decision – and raises many challenges. MHK UK provided comprehensive support, whether on growth strategy, a secure cash flow or the set-up of a showroom. The appointments at the fair stand were quickly booked and questions asked included, business planning, how to prepare a cash-flow forecast and product advice.

#kitchenfamily: a joint concept by MHK and Bauformat

Also in high demand: the #kitchenfamily concept presented by MHK UK jointly with Bauformat. It is aimed at founders selling high-quality kitchens and bathrooms. With #kitchenfamily, they rely on a proven showroom model, a strong brand presence, premium products and logistical infrastructure. #kitchenfamily makes it easier for installers and entrepreneurs to set up their own showroom with a
wide range of support services. They benefit from professional support including planning, marketing and promotion materials, competitive purchasing conditions and flexible credit terms, simplified invoicing and business development – complemented by regular training and personal guidance.

Hands-on and inspiring: in-depth talk with David Morris and Tom Baldwin

Emphasising MHK’s presence, a talk titled “Success in kitchen retail – and why installers should open showrooms” saw David Morris and Tom Baldwin speak openly about the opportunities, challenges and solutions for the transition from installer to studio owner. With the help of MHK UK, Tom Baldwin, founder of Signature Projects, built a smooth-running business with a premium, private showroom. For him, everything changed with learning how to balance his vision with financial control. With MHK UK at his side, his company not only gains from a secure cash flow. He also benefits from access to a network of other retailers and the industry.

The most important insights at a glance:

* Open ended credit terms with simplified invoicing process

* Wide product portfolio, offering the perfect staircase of good – better – best

* Marketing tools to help generate high quality leads

MHK UK hits the spot for the KBB Industry
With its full range of products and services at InstallerSHOW 2025, MHK UK sent out a clear signal: in favour of strong partnerships, operational support and new perspectives in the kitchen retail sector. The visitor response at the stand in the BiKBBI Village over the three days spoke for itself. The path to self-employment and the evolution from installer to retailer is meeting growing demand – and MHK UK has the right offer.