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In the face of change, collaboration becomes crucial. The Bathroom Association’s Connect Conference 2025 reflects a growing industry-wide commitment to come together, share insight, and shape what’s next.
The Bathroom Association has recently undergone more than just a name change. The rebranding reflects a bold, inclusive shift in purpose: to bring together every business and professional within the bathroom sector under one banner.
From designers and distributors to plumbers, manufacturers, and merchants, the Association recognises what has always been true – behind every bathroom lies a interconnected supply chain of passionate people with a shared purpose.
As the voice of the bathroom space, the Association is committed to providing a stronger collective voice, backed by insight, influence and impact. It promotes quality, safety and sustainability, informs policy, shares best practices and advances the industry’s standing at a national level.
In short, the Bathroom Association exists to get things done – and now, more than ever, that means working together.
This renewed drive toward unity is perfectly embodied in the Connect Conference 2025, taking place on September 16 and 17 at the Grand Hotel in Birmingham. Under the theme ‘Connecting the Dots’, the conference invites the whole industry to collaborate on challenges, opportunities, and innovations that can move the sector forward.
Day one, on September 16, is dedicated to Association members only, with a packed free ‘Insights Live’ programme, followed by a networking drinks reception and dinner.
Day two (September 17) opens for all delegates with registration at 9:30am, complete with refreshments to fuel a packed programme.
Anna Leach, deputy chief economist at the CBI, will deliver the first keynote speech of the day. Leach brings extensive expertise on macroeconomic trends and business forecasting, offering vital context for those navigating current market uncertainties.
‘The Big Debate’ follows, creating space for a candid, forward-looking discussion on what real collaboration looks like across the industry to join up the entire bathroom supply chain, and why it’s needed now more than ever.
In the afternoon, Amanda Long, CEO of Construction Product Information, will share her perspective on product data transparency and industry accountability through the CCPI initiative. She’ll be followed by Tim Smedley, environmental journalist and author of ‘The Last Drop’, who will bring global and local context to the critical issue of water stewardship in the built environment.
Closing the day’s talks, Alex Depledge MBE, CEO of Resi.co.uk, will share her journey through tech entrepreneurship and offer insights into consumer trends, digital transformation and leadership in times of disruption.
The conference concludes with the ‘President’s Closing Remarks’, followed by a networking and relaxation period before the evening’s gala dinner and awards, which start at 7:00pm.
The evening promises not only celebration but also entertainment, as attendees welcome comedian, actress, and broadcaster Diona Doherty as host.
Known for her sharp wit and warmth, Doherty will lead the evening’s programme, including the ‘30-Under-30 Awards’, the ‘Sustainability Award’, and a lively charity raffle and auction.
With such a powerful lineup and a genuine focus on sector-wide collaboration, this year’s Connect Conference is not to be missed. Spaces are limited, and accommodation at the Grand Hotel has already sold out. Register now to secure your place and be part of the conversation that will shape the future of the bathroom industry.
To view the full agenda, speakers, and registration details, visit the Connect Conference website.