Features by Diane Larner founder and editor of Bathroom Review & Kitchens Review.
Diane Larner launched both titles over 12 years ago and has been writing about the bathroom and kitchen interior design industry ever since, publishing regular features across the two sectors.
Marking its 40th anniversary, kbb Birmingham returned to the NEC this month with a vibrant and well-attended show floor, showcasing the latest innovations across the bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms sector. The four-day event brought together leading brands, retailers, designers and installers, offering a valuable opportunity to explore new product launches, evolving design trends and fresh commercial prospects.
Attracting close to 16,000 visitors, the exhibition featured over 320 exhibitors spanning 26 product categories. From furniture and surfaces to appliances, fittings and materials, the show delivered a comprehensive snapshot of the technologies and styles currently influencing the KBB market, while also fostering networking, collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the industry.
Diane Larner attended the exhibition and shares six standout highlights from this year’s event.
SIX T O P P I C K S from Kbb Birmingham 2026
HiB returns to Kbb Birmingham with ‘Wall of Mirrors’
HiB’s brought to life an evolved product direction with 96 new mirrors and cabinets, many of which appeared on a standout ‘Wall of Mirrors’.
REHAU highlights bathroom surface & edgeband excellence at Kbb Birmingham
REHAU showcased its latest surface and edgeband innovations, inspiring bathroom designers specifying premium materials.
House of Rohl and Aqualisa preview new launches at Kbb Birmingham
House of Rohl UK, comprising Perrin & Rowe, Shaws of Darwen and Victoria + Albert, alongside Aqualisa, showcased a series of new product launches.
Acquabella showcases design and functionality with its new products
Acquabella welcomed visitors to the Acquabella Boutique: an elegant space inspired by the sophisticated interiors of contemporary ateliers.
VitrA unveils V-Care 3 & hosts networking brunch
VitrA hosted a networking brunch on the Take 5 area of KBB and unveiled its latest V-Care 3 range to visitors.
BAGNODESIGN makes Kbb Birmingham debut with new luxury collections
BAGNODESIGN made its first appearance at KBB Birmingham this March – using the platform to spotlight a curated selection of new and existing collections.
Jon Johnston, Kbb sales director
The 40th edition of kbb Birmingham was very special, with such a strong legacy to celebrate. Four decades of inspiring conversations, deep industry relationships and kbb Birmingham’s role as a cornerstone of the KBB industry felt particularly resonant this year. We’re hugely appreciative of the support from visitors, exhibitors and partners who have helped shape the show into what it is today.
“The 2026 show delivered everything from show‑stopping stand design and a breadth of innovation, to four days of genuinely meaningful discussions between visitors and exhibitors who clearly care about the future of the industry. One of the aspects we’re most proud of is the diversity of product on display and the stories behind them, with exhibitors from over 20 countries and a growing European presence that continues to strengthen the show. Many international brands clearly recognise the value of kbb Birmingham as a direct route to engaging with UK high‑street studios and independent retailers. It was a reminder that while the KBB industry continues to evolve, quality, innovation and human connection remain at its core.”
Michael Bennett, head of commercialisation for House of Rohl and Aqualisa
Kbb Birmingham has been a fantastic show for all of our brands. The energy across the halls has been incredibly positive, and our stand had a real buzz and was consistently busy across all four days. It’s been a brilliant platform to showcase House of Rohl and Aqualisa’s latest innovations, connect with both longstanding partners and new customers, and have meaningful conversations about the future of the sector.
“What’s really stood out this year is the quality of the leads, the depth of the conversations, and the level of press attendance. We’ve met with highly engaged visitors who are genuinely looking to do business, as well as key members of the media who are passionate about sharing innovation and design stories from the show. It’s been a hugely valuable and successful few days for our teams.”
About Kbb Birmingham
Kbb Birmingham is the UK’s leading trade exhibition for the kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms sector, held at the NEC Birmingham and established in 1986. Taking place every two years, the event brings together manufacturers, retailers, designers, installers and developers to showcase the latest product innovations, materials and technologies shaping the KBB market. Featuring hundreds of exhibiting brands and attracting thousands of industry professionals, it serves as a key platform for sourcing new products, discovering emerging design trends and gaining valuable business insight, while also providing important opportunities for networking and collaboration across the industry.
Kbb Birmingham will return March 5–8, 2028