Industry Legends

Welcome to the latest episode of “Industry Legends.” Today’s guest is Simon Taylor of Simon Taylor Furniture. With a 40‑year legacy of crafting luxury bespoke kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and furniture — all handmade in England — Simon Taylor Furniture has built a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, design excellence and full‑project delivery from concept to installation. In this episode, the conversation explores how Simon combines traditional joinery and furniture‑making skills with modern design demands, offering insights into project management, bespoke manufacturing, and the future of home interiors — making him a perfect guest for “Industry Legends.” Today’s episode is proudly sponsored by InstallerSH...

Graham Hayden merges training programmes with Simon Acres – Industry LegendsAcclaimed KBB customer service and sales training provider Graham Hayden has confirmed his intention to merge his future training commitments with KBB and merchant service provider Acres Consultancy.Graham, who will also feature in the Acres Consultancy ‘Industry Legends’ series later this year, has trained more than 2,500 people over the last 13 years, and will continue to champion training within the KBB industry via an ongoing association with Acres Consultancy.Graham will maintain his commitment to directly deliver training to ArtiCAD’s customers supported by expert trainer Ray Isted.Graham Hayden says: “I’ve watched wi...

From New York’s Fast-Paced Design Scene: Insights with Mark RosenhausWe had the pleasure of chatting with Mark Rosenhaus, a legendary kitchen designer with an incredible 37-year career in New York. His insights into the world of kitchen design and the difference between the US and UK markets are fascinating.Here are some key takeaways:
The Big Apple: New York is known for its rapid pace, with the phrase “in a New York minute” meaning everything happens quickly. This mindset influences kitchen design, where every decision needs to be made swiftly.How Mark Started: After studying architecture, Mark ventured into i...

Industry Legend 2: Wisdom from Peter Bird 🎙️In our second installment of the Legends Series, we sat down with Peter Bird from Anglian Interiors to explore his incredible journey and gain valuable insights for the KBB industry.Peter’s story spans decades, starting in electrical retail and taking a “sideways step” into kitchens—a decision shaped by resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.🔑 Key takeaways from our conversation:
Learn before you invest: Align yourself with a forward-thinking retailer to understand the industry.Focus on strengths: Whether you’re a designer or a fitter, know your niche and excel at it.Knowledge is pow...

Exploring Career Opportunities in Merchanting – A Conversation with Andy Gamble Are you considering a career where no two days are the same, and you get to interact with people while building valuable skills? The world of merchanting might just be the perfect fit for you. In our latest podcast, Special Legends, we sit down with Andy Gamble, a seasoned professional with decades of experience in the merchanting industry. Andy shares his insights on the diverse roles available within the sector and the incredible opportunities for young people looking to get into this thriving industry. From working in the yard to cu...

Industry Legends Interview – 35 Years in the Kitchen Industry Bernard MielIt’s been an incredible 35 years for this KBB industry legend, and it’s been a privilege to hear their journey firsthand! 🏆 In our latest KBB Legends interview, we discuss the key changes in the industry, the importance of honesty in business, and the personal connections that make all the difference.Here are a few gems from the conversation:🔑 Customer Expectations – Over the years, our customers have become more discerning, demanding perfection in every detail. It’s not just about the product, but the trust and relationship you build.🤝 Successful Business Tips – “Be yourself, b...

John Nicholls’ Les Martin features in Acres video interview – Industry LegendsKitchen designer Les Martin is the fourth KBB professional to take part in Acres Consultancy ‘Industry Legends’ video series.KBB and merchant service provider Acres Consultancy launched its ‘Industry Legend’ films to share the thoughts and advice of some of the most successful professionals in the industry.


Les Martin, Senior Designer at John Nicholls Banbury has been designing kitchens for 38 years and spoke with Simon Acres, Principal Director at Acres Consultancy about the changes he has seen during his career and what it takes to be successful.“Success is about absol...

Smart Solutions for the KBB Industry with Bill Miller – Industry LegendJoin us for an insightful conversation with Bill Miller as he shares his expertise on navigating the current challenges in the KBB industry. From the benefits of joining a buying group like KBBG to tips on how retailers can reposition themselves in the premium market, this episode offers actionable advice you won’t want to miss! 🛠️What you’ll learn: ✔️ How KBBG is helping retailers secure better buying terms ✔️ The power of networking and business advice ✔️ How to strategically increase your margin with exclusive products ✔️ Key steps to boost your showroom’s appeal and drive...

Industry Legends: Insights from Phil Beechinor, MD at Alexander KitchensIn our latest episode of Industry Legends, we had the privilege of sitting down with Phil Beechinor, Managing Director of Alexander Kitchens, at their stunning showroom in Horsham. With over 40 years of experience in the Kitchen, Bedroom, and Bathroom (KBB) industry, Phil offered valuable insights into attracting installers, delivering exceptional customer service, and standing out as a family-run business.From Tools to Leadership
Phil’s journey in the KBB industry began on the tools as an installer, a role he held for 15 years before progressing into project management, sales, and ev...

Legends of the KBB Industry – Rai Isted Journey🌟 Legends of the KBB Industry – Royce’s Journey 🌟Our Legends Project Series 3 continues with an incredible conversation featuring Royce, a true veteran of the KBB and appliance industry. His remarkable career started all the way back in 1979, working with the Maloney Group on built-in appliances just as the market was exploding.From repairing refrigeration systems to becoming a marketing leader at global brands like Philips and Whirlpool, Royce has seen it all. He shared fascinating insights about the evolution of kitchen appliances, the shift to open-plan living, and how the industry has grown from humbl...

Recipe for success – Industry Legends podcast with Richard Flower founder of Ashford Kitchens and Interiors

🎙️ The Secret to 40 Years of Success in the KBB Industry! 🚀
What does it take to build and sustain a thriving KBB business for over four decades? In the latest episode of Industry Legends, we sit down with Richard Flower of Ashford Kitchens & Interiors, a man whose journey through the industry spans 50 years! From selling kitchens in the early ’70s to establishing a second-generation family business, Richard’s story is packed with invaluable insights.

💡 Why should you listen?

🔹 Lessons from the past: Richa...