Craig Burgess-Allen

Marketing manager, Rational

How would you view the current kbb retail market?

I think the market it's busy with high spend and there is a general trend for more interesting kitchens with greater design options.

Apart from your own, which companies do you think are setting the pace in this industry?

A greater part of the kitchen budget (at the lower price sector) is being used in the appliance specification with many more "toys" available. The choices of new style hobs, new steam ovens, built in integrated wine storage, these offer lifestyle choices across now even wider price spectrums.

Do you think this is a golden age for kbb design?

This is a truly interesting time, with not only design being pushed along with quality and engineering, but the possible choices in materials and finishes, presenting the buyers with almost unlimited choice. In addition, cleaner lines with ergonomics at the heart of the design concept coupled with the desire to create a real style statement in the home.

Which new products have stood out for you in the past 12 months?

Big fridges from Sub Zero and wine storage options now also available from Gaggenau. The Sub because it's BIG - you can't hide from it. In contrast, Gaggenau because its integrated and easily concealed. I know they have both been launched for some time but their inclusion is becoming more noticeable.

What are your predictions for the industry in the coming year?

The slow down in house moves means people stay longer in their homes, if they stay they then invest in their homes. At one level this spend to stay is higher than the spend they might make to move.

The contract market place is still deciding on price and or quality, not usually both, but the spend on projects is increasing.

Who is the most famous person to have blagged free product from you?

My Mum!