Simon Acres: Our KBB Futures events are about collaborating to drive change

With the next KBB Futures roundtable set to take place at InstallerSHOW this month, Simon Acres tells us about his ambition to help create an industry that's better equipped to deal with what lies ahead.

Q: Tell us about KBB Futures and how the idea came about?
A: Often, professionals within the KBB and construction sectors find themselves working in silos. While there are regular interactions between manufacturers, retailers, installers, distributors and so on, these conversations are often focused on immediate priorities rather than the bigger picture of collectively moving the industry forward.

As a specialist recruitment consultancy working across KBB and construction sectors, we speak to people in a wide range of roles every day. This has given us a clear view of how valuable stronger connections and open dialogue can be. With networking a key focus for us, the benefits of bringing people together to share ideas, challenges and opportunities are clear.

KBB Futures was born from this insight. It’s a biannual roundtable event, designed to bring senior leaders together to have meaningful, forward-thinking conversations and actively shape the future of the industry. The first session was held at The Brewery, London on 4^th December 2025 and sponsored by BLANCO, Caesarstone, and Sensio. Its success demonstrated what’s possible when people come together with a shared purpose. The energy in the room was inspiring, with attendees leaving with fresh perspectives, renewed focus and a real drive to push things forward.

Q: What were the key takeaways from the first KBB Futures event?
A: During the event, we identified pillars of growth for KBB specialists to consider when planning for the year ahead. These included:

• ● The growing importance of multigenerational, future-ready, inclusive design to make the home accessible and comfortable for the whole family
• ● Engaging directly with the rapidly growing modular housing sector, opening new supply pathways for KBB manufacturers and retailers
• ● Taking control of your own messaging, with personal social media reach being one of the most powerful tools
• ● Using AI to support supply chain efficiencies through data-driven forecasting
• ● Articulating the industry’s value earlier (in schools) and louder to attract young talent and encourage more apprenticeships

The session proved that many of the solutions our industry needs already exist within our own community. By sharing knowledge, embracing new technologies and engaging with young people, we can aim to build a stronger, more resilient KBB sector.

Q: When is the next KBB Futures event and what can we expect?
A: Taking place on 24^th June 2026 at InstallerSHOW, the second KBB Futures roundtable will pick up on common challenges, from apprenticeships to broader sector issues. We also aim to discuss solutions with actions that can be taken in the near term.

Sponsored by BLANCO and Trojan Baths, the roundtable will be held at the Piazza Suites and will bring manufacturers, retailers, industry associations and other leaders together with the shared goal of shaping the future of the KBB industry. There are over 20 panellists participating, bringing a wide range of expertise and ideas.

With InstallerSHOW as the 'associate host', the discussion will be chaired by Amanda Hughes, KBB content creator & live events facilitator. Amanda is also a specialist in ergonomics and ageing in the built environment. The roundtable will be delivered in front of a live audience, giving attendees the opportunity to pose questions directly to the panel, challenge ideas, and contribute their perspectives.

KBB Futures is one example of what can happen when we share best practice solutions and commit to working together with openness and intent. With each conversation, shared insight and joint action, we move closer to an industry that is more connected, resilient and better equipped for the future.