BIFIS has today called for a forward-looking response to the rise of artificial intelligence, warning that while AI-driven disruption across the wider economy may encourage more people to consider vocational careers, the fitted interiors industry must act to ensure this opportunity translates into competence for consumers.

As administrative and office-based roles come under growing pressure from automation, careers in kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installation could become more attractive to those seeking practical, people-focused and future-resilient work. This shift is supported by research from Capital on Tap, which identifies kitchen and bathroom installers among the highest paid trades in 2026, ranking sixth and seventh in the UK’s fastest growing trades.

For the sector, this presents a clear opportunity. The UK continues to face a significant skills shortage, with CITB’s Construction Workforce Outlook 2025–2029 estimating a need for 239,300 additional workers over the next five years. Strengthening vocational pathways could therefore help ease long-standing recruitment pressures.

However, the pace of AI-driven change is accelerating. The UK Government’s 2026 assessment highlights rapidly expanding AI capability across knowledge-based tasks, while research from King’s College London shows AI-exposed sectors have already seen a 4.5% fall in employment and a 23.4% drop in job postings between 2021 and 2025. The World Economic Forum also forecasts major labour market disruption by 2030, with 22% of jobs affected globally.

BIFIS warns that increased interest in vocational careers will only benefit the fitted interiors industry if matched by structured training, supervision and clear standards. Without this, there is a risk of unskilled labour entering the sector, undermining quality, safety and consumer trust.

Damian Walters, CEO of BIFIS, said: “AI is changing the labour market faster than expected. For our sector, it highlights the value of practical, hands-on careers built on craftsmanship, problem-solving and customer service.”

He added: “But opportunity must be matched by investment in training. Clear entry routes, apprenticeships and ongoing development are essential to ensure new entrants build real competence. Without this, we risk damaging standards at the point demand is growing.”

BIFIS is urging manufacturers, retailers and training providers to work together to strengthen training pathways and professional standards, ensuring the sector is ready to convert rising vocational interest into a skilled, sustainable workforce.

Harrison Bathrooms, one of the UK’s leading bathroom suppliers, has reported double-digit growth for 2025, with revenues approaching £55 million despite ongoing market challenges.

The business delivered £5 million in growth during the financial year, driven by a strategy focused on category expansion, strong product availability, supply chain resilience and creating margin opportunities for customers. Looking ahead, the company is forecasting continued growth in 2026 and is targeting turnover of £75 million by 2028.

As part of its long-term expansion plans, Harrison Bathrooms is entering new product categories, beginning with the launch of a new panel radiator range. The category is expected to generate between £10 million and £15 million in additional revenue for the business.

James Harrison said: “My approach has always been straightforward, to create real margin and profit opportunities for our customers. When they win, they stay with us and grow with us, fuelling the organic growth Harrison Bathrooms has enjoyed since day one.

“Despite challenging market conditions, many retail partners, particularly those aligned with the Scudo brand, continue to perform strongly. We attribute this to our focus on delivering the right products, sharp pricing and reliable availability, all designed to support customers in growing their own businesses.”

New panel radiator range launched

The launch of the company’s new panel radiator collection marks the next phase of Harrison Bathrooms’ growth strategy and reflects its continued focus on supporting merchants and installers with commercially driven product solutions.

Developed in response to customer demand, the new range has been designed to simplify purchasing, improve quality and offer stronger commercial value. Initially launching with Type 21 and Type 22 white enamel models, the collection focuses on the industry’s most popular sizes to create a streamlined and easy-to-navigate offer.

The products feature enhanced heat outputs and upgraded packaging to minimise damage during transit and handling, one of the category’s most common challenges.

Shaun Corcoran commented, “The panel radiator launch is about removing friction for our customers. Too often, they are forced to choose between buying at higher prices due to low volumes or overcommitting to stock to secure better rates.

“Our model strikes the right balance, giving customers the flexibility to manage stock effectively, maintain strong margins and operate with confidence. Combined with the quality of the product, this creates a clear commercial advantage in a competitive market.”

Further product launches and range extensions are also planned for 2026 and will be unveiled in Edition 22 of the company’s brochure this August.

NKBA Global Connect has welcomed ABIMÓVEL, the Brazilian Furniture Industry Association, as a Strategic Alliance Partner, strengthening links between the North and South American furniture and interiors sectors.

The partnership forms part of NKBA Global Connect’s international business development programme, designed to help global brands explore opportunities within the North American kitchen and bathroom market through market insight, networking and strategic support.

Representing more than 22,800 companies, ABIMÓVEL has supported Brazil’s furniture industry for almost 50 years, promoting innovation, sustainability, design and international growth. Brazil is currently the largest furniture producer in Latin America and the seventh largest globally.

Geraldine Morrison, chief partnerships officer, domestic & global brands at NKBA, said: “We are delighted to welcome ABIMÓVEL as an NKBA Global Connect Strategic Alliance Partner. Working together will help foster stronger dialogue and create new business opportunities between our markets.”

The collaboration follows recent discussions between NKBA and ABIMÓVEL at Salone del Mobile.Milano, where NKBA visited the Brazil Pavilion to explore opportunities for future cooperation ahead of KBIS 2027.

Cândida Cervieri, executive director of ABIMÓVEL, added: “We are proud to join NKBA in expanding opportunities for our members within the North American kitchen and bath market. Supporting the internationalisation of Brazil’s furniture sector remains a key priority for us.”

NKBA Global Connect supports international brands looking to enter the North American market through access to research, industry expertise and networking opportunities across the kitchen and bathroom sector.