The fourth and final day of KBB Birmingham (6th March) saw the much-anticipated winners of the 2024 Innovation Awards, supported by Blum, announced. The award scheme recognises the most forward-thinking and technically advanced products within the KBB sector and is one of the most hotly anticipated events of the show.
Architect and interior design liaison at Blum, Amanda Hughes, pictured above, said: “Once again, the standard of entries was incredibly high and those shortlisted really reflect that spirit of creativity and innovation that we’ve come to expect at the kbb Innovation Awards. These brilliant solutions demonstrate ideas that can really make a difference across the KBB industry.”
The 10 shortlisted finalists were displayed in an inspiring showcase across the specially designed Innovation Zone, providing visitors the chance to experience the innovations first hand and vote for their favourite.
The Judge’s Choice was awarded to Space-Plug Limited, for their Space-Plug Evolution, an adjustable spacer fixing that manufacturers can use to mimic the shortening of side panels. The solution saves material and makes smaller, lighter cabinets that installers can fit faster, easier and more accurately than ever before.
The Sustainability Award winner was Samsung with its Less Microfiber Filter, an external washing machine filter, designed to significantly reduce plastic microfiber emissions during laundry cycles.
Receiving the highest number of votes during the show, the People’s Choice Award winner was Hidealoo.
This unique steel mechanism works with any standard wall hung ceramic pan and cistern and has a rotation ability of 90 degrees meaning it can be hidden within a cabinet or cavity space.
"Picking up a kbb innovation award, especially when it has been voted on by those within the trades, is just fantastic and acts as further validation for Hidealoo and the unique solution we are offering. Interest continues to grow amongst both trade partners and consumers across the world, who value the way Hidealoo is opening up opportunities for households to make the most flexible use of the space they have available and to add additional facilities,” said Monty Ravenscroft, founder of Hidealoo.
After a much anticipated two year wait, the 2024 edition of kbb Birmingham welcomed a wider range of visitors than ever before including retailers, installers, specifiers, interior designers and more. With over 320 exhibiting brands, the innovation, creativity and technology presented across the show floor reaffirmed the show’s presence as the leading industry event for the KBB sector.
"It's so rewarding to see the KBB community together at the show – networking, collaborating and celebrating this exciting industry that we’re part of. The stands were incredibly impressive, which is testament to the hard work and creativity of our exhibitors and partners. I'd like to say a huge thank you to all our visitors and exhibitors for the amazing buzz they brought to the show floor – we look forward to welcoming them back to kbb Birmingham 2026!" said Sam Fisher, event director of kbb Birmingham.
