There’s something about being on the ground at KBB Birmingham 2026 that you simply can’t replicate from behind a screen.
This year, Ree and Tara made the trip to Birmingham for the show’s 40th year and it more than delivered. From bold colour palettes to beautifully finished, tactile spaces, the shift in design direction was clear. Warmer, more lived-in environments are replacing the clinical, high-gloss look that has dominated in recent years.
But beyond the stands, what stood out most was the energy of the sector itself.
Why showing up matters in this industry
The kitchen and bathroom sector is built on relationships.
Ree and Tara spent time meeting brands we’ve been speaking to for months, turning emails and calls into real conversations. Those quick introductions often opened the door to more meaningful discussions about challenges, growth plans and where brands want to go next.
And that’s exactly where strong PR starts. Not with a press release, but with genuine understanding.
What we’re seeing from a PR perspective
Events like KBB aren’t just about spotting trends, they’re about shaping how brands communicate them.
A few clear themes stood out:
- Design is becoming more emotional
Warmer tones, textured finishes and more “lived-in” spaces are dominating. PR needs to reflect that shift, moving away from purely functional messaging to storytelling that connects with how people want to feel in their homes.
- Detail matters more than ever
From craftsmanship to materials, brands are investing in the finer details. That creates stronger opportunities for deeper, more considered content – think features, case studies and expert commentary, not just product pushes.
- The sector thrives on conversation
This is a relationship-driven industry. The brands that show up, engage and stay visible across multiple channels will always have the edge.
Bringing it back to our clients
For us at Rose Media Group, visits like this aren’t a “nice to have”. They’re essential.
They sharpen our thinking, strengthen our relationships and give us real, current insight into what’s happening on the ground. That’s what allows us to create PR strategies that feel relevant, informed and genuinely connected to the sector.
Because ultimately, good PR in this space isn’t about making noise.
It’s about understanding the detail, the people and the direction the industry is heading in and translating that into stories that land.
And we keep going.
