From 1st January 2025, Owain Harrison, currently global business and brand development director at Novy (part of Middleby Residential), will take on the role of managing director at the KBBG (part of DER KREIS), the UK’s leading independent buying group for the KBB industry.
This announcement comes as Bill Miller prepares to step down from the role at the end of the year after more than a decade of dedicated service. Having launched KBBG as the UK’s first independent buying group for the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom industry, Bill has played a pivotal role in growing the organisation into a thriving community for retailers, manufacturers, and service providers.
This marks an exciting new chapter for the organisation as Owain brings over 20 years of global experience in brand development, strategic growth, and operational leadership in the premium kitchen sector. Owain has been an integral part of the Novy team for over seven years, transforming the brand from a market entry to a recognised luxury leader in the UK and Ireland before expanding its global footprint. His experience includes senior roles with Hoover Candy Group and Indesit Company and serving as Corporate Chair at the Kbsa.
Ahead of his appointment, Owain comments: “I am delighted to be joining DER KREIS as Managing Director in the UK. With the KBBG’s commitment to empowering independent retailers and delivering exceptional quality, the organisation aligns perfectly with my passion for innovation in the kitchen and bathroom industry. I look forward to continuing the excellent work carried out by Bill Miller, together with Russell Sharpe, Neil Whitaker and Louisa Cole, leveraging our experience to strengthen the members’ market positions, drive growth, and enhance the customer experience. The need for independent retailers to maximise their margins and business relationships is more urgent than ever, and we will continue Bill’s work to drive excellence throughout the KBB industry.”
Reflecting on his tenure, Bill says: “It has been an absolute honour and pleasure supporting independent kitchen and bathroom retailers, it truly is a wonderful, resilient sector. Thank you to DER KREIS for giving me the opportunity to build the KBBG brand, it was a pivotal moment in my career, and I’m proud to say that we exceeded all expectations. Championing independent retailers and watching their businesses grow has been a real privilege.”
Bill also expresses confidence in his successor: “My position at the KBBG is being handed over to the most capable hands in Owain Harrison. Known for his strategic insight, Owain has consistently delivered exceptional results through brand building, market analysis, and executive relationship management. I wish him every success at KBBG and know that he will be an excellent addition to the team.”
Bill’s legacy includes building a strong and ever-growing membership, fostering collaboration within the KBB sector, and securing a robust portfolio of suppliers, all of which have made the KBBG an invaluable resource for independent retailers. Owain’s leadership promises to build on this foundation, ensuring continued support for independent KBB retailers while driving innovation and growth in the sector.
For more information on the KBBG, call 023 8202 1347 or email info@derkreis.co.uk. You can also visit the website at www.kbbg.co.uk.