CIH chairman Steve Scogings outlines ambitious growth plans for the year ahead

Steve Scogings, chairman of Combined Independents Holdings (CIH) – an electrical buying group which is part of Euronics – outlined ambitious plans for the independent electrical retail sector as he addressed partners, suppliers and industry leaders at the group's annual Suppliers’ Lunch, held once again at London’s Claridge’s.

After welcoming new CIH/Euronics chairman, Harry Kyriacou, and thanking the CIH Board for their ongoing support, Scogings said: "The independent electrical retail sector is evolving rapidly, and our competitive landscape continues to grow. We are operating alongside some of the most recognised names in retail – Currys, AO, John Lewis, Argos, Amazon – and we are now seeing Costco becoming increasingly visible in our sector, as well as newcomers such as Joy Buy entering the UK market."

He added: "Our ambition is clear: We want CIH not only to represent the independent sector, but to lead it into a position where we are firmly competing at the top table of this industry. To achieve this, we will:

• "Grow our membership by making CIH an even more compelling home for independent retailers.
• Increase our turnover and drive greater commercial opportunity.
• Strengthen our offering so members and suppliers experience CIH as the best partner to work with.
• Use our scale and market share to give the independent sector a stronger voice.
• Operate as one united buying group that stands for quality, fairness, and partnership across the industry.
  
  

"As we expand, the importance of having one strong buying group for the independent sector becomes even clearer. A group with shared purpose, shared direction, and shared benefit. A group that speaks with one voice — and is listened to at every level of our industry."

Following his speech, the annual Suppliers' Awards presentation took place. This year the Brown Goods Supplier of the Year Award 2025 went to TCL, the White Goods Supplier of the Year 2025 winner was Beko, the Supporter of the Independents Award 2025 went to Samsung DA, and the Members’ Choice Supplier of the Year Award 2025 went to Bosch.

Pictured from left to right: CIH/Euronics chairman Harry Kyriacou; Teresa Ceballos Arbuckle, regional MD UK & Ireland at Beko plc, winner of the White Goods Supplier of the Year; and CIH chairman, Steve Scogings.