Well, as we approach the middle of 2025 and Trump-onomics begin to influence the global markets, I was asked for my assessment of the current kitchen refurbishment market.

Speaking to multiple suppliers, the common consensus is that the market is a pretty tough place at the moment. Disposable income has taken a bit of a hit in the last few years, and the housing market is fairly flat, both of which are pointers to the state of the kitchen market.

Many tell us we are bucking the trend when I tell them that we have had a very strong to the start of the year. However, I see some other dynamics happening in the market.

Firstly, cost pressures, both from materials and increased interest rates have meant that the lower end of the market, dominated by the nationals, is not as cost effective as it previously was.

Therefore, as prices have increased, maybe the client has a greater expectation? Once the price exceeds their initial budget, maybe they look for better value, resulting in a move towards the mid to top end retailers?

Maybe this market place is in a sweet spot for the clients who have the funds available to afford their purchase, when a really good product is not so much more expensive than an average product?

Ebbs and flows

Secondly, there’s a greater focus on projects. We are all aware of the skill shortage in trades. Customers are crying out to find good quality tradespeople – ones who can organise all facets of a project. We have found that we have had a real strength when clients want to put together a project that they will live with for the next 20 years.

I think that the general market trend is fairly flat, however, the opportunities for independents to demonstrate their expertise is large in a changing marketplace, where the sweet spot continues to evolve.

If I was to give advice to fellow independents I would always encourage them to see a flattening of the market as a major opportunity. After 30 years in this industry, I see the market will always have ebbs and flows and when the market is flat, the best will shine. 

You may decide to update displays or increase marketing to appeal to more clients. The best often come out fighting, not wonder where the next lead may come from. But, most of all, it can give you an opportunity to evaluate and become better. 

I have always said that we should strive to be the best we can be, and market fluctuations give you time to evaluate and improve.