Richard Hibbert leaves the KBSA to take over as DER KREIS UK managing director

Buying group DER KREIS has announced the appointment of Richard Hibbert as the new MD of the Kitchen Bathroom Buying Group (DER KREIS UK).

Officially starting in August 2026, Hibbert brings a wealth of experience and unique credentials to the position. For the past decade, he has been chair of the service provider, KBSA (Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association Ltd) – a role that he now relinquishes to focus entirely on his new position with DER KREIS UK while still working closely with the trade association. In addition, Richard brings broad practical industry knowledge to the members and suppliers of the KBBG, thanks to his many years’ experience as managing director of KSL Kitchens & Bathrooms, a member of DER KREIS UK. In this capacity, Richard has also been a board member of DER KREIS UK since 2025.

Owain Harrison departs DER KREIS UK at the end of July having accepted a new leadership role.

Hibbert takes over at DER KREIS UK with positive results to build upon. During Harrison’s tenure, the KBBG’s turnover, membership and supplier base have made significant progress, with turnover increasing by more than 20% and membership by 15%.  Working closely with DER KREIS in Europe, Hibbert will be continuing to further expand the UK buying group’s business, together with presenting strategies, opportunities and solutions for its members and suppliers.

Ralph Leimbach, MD at DER KREIS Systemverbund, said: “Through his personal commitment, Owain has helped to make our successful company in the UK even more successful. On behalf of Ernst-Martin Schaible, Managing Partner of DER KREIS Systemverbund, I would like to thank him for his work and wish him all the best for the future, both personally and professionally.

“At the same time, I am delighted that Richard Hibbert, an experienced and well-connected industry professional, is on hand to take KBBG forward with his expertise and ideas. I wish him a smooth start and every success!”

Of his new role as MD of DER KREIS UK, Richard Hibbert said: “I wish to thank Ernst-Martin Schaible, founder of DER KREIS in Germany for choosing me to be the new managing director of the KBBG (DER KREIS UK). This is the start of a new chapter in my KBB career, one where I will be continuing to build on what has always been my professional passion – to help independent KBB businesses to grow and thrive, with support, advice and understanding.”

He added: “I’ve been lucky enough to serve as chair [at the KBSA] for nearly 10 years and, when I look back, it’s really not about me. As a team we’ve managed to make the KBSA a much more central part of the industry, we’re in a stronger financial position, the conference has grown, and we’ve picked up our own offices, more staff and better member benefits along the way. Just recently we put in place a new structure and what I think is the strongest board we’ve had. I couldn’t be prouder of everything we’ve achieved together and I’m confident the KBSA’s best years are still ahead.”

Luke Wedgbury, interim chair of the KBSA, said: “Richard has led us brilliantly as chair for the last 9 years, taking the KBSA from strength to strength. I’d like to congratulate him on this really exciting new adventure, and thank him on behalf of all our members for his hard work, dedication and passion. He and I have worked closely on the board for a number of years, particularly on its new structure and plans for the association’s future, and it’s been a pleasure from start to finish. Good luck Richard – looking forward to seeing the next chapter unfold!”