kbb Birmingham has unveiled the shortlist for its 2026 Innovation Awards, spotlighting a wide mix of design-led, sustainability-focused and installation-friendly products ahead of the show’s 40th anniversary.
kbb Birmingham has announced the shortlist for its 2026 Innovation Awards, in partnership with Blum, as the industry gears up for the exhibition’s landmark 40th anniversary next March.
Now in their 11th year, the Innovation Awards remain a core part of the show, recognising new thinking across the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom sector, with winners to be revealed live at the NEC during the event, which runs from March 1-4 2026.
The 2026 shortlist reflects a strong focus on practical innovation, sustainability and installer-friendly design. Shortlisted products range from GROHE’s Rapido Shower Frame – a fully pre-assembled concealed shower system designed to significantly cut installation time – to Samsung’s Bespoke AI Front-Load Washing Machine Series 9, which uses AI-driven technology to optimise wash cycles and reduce energy consumption by up to 70%.
Sustainability features heavily, with Finsa shortlisted for its Fimapan Bio BDecor biobased particleboard, and Frascio Holdings Co recognised for its Eco-Power Sensor Tap, which generates its own electricity using an internal hydro-generator, removing the need for batteries or external power.
In addition, there’s The Green Futures Initiative’s eco-cistem, billed as the world’s most environmentally friendly toilet cistern, using the condensation produced by air-conditioning units to flush toilets. An 18-litre, twin chamber stores up to 12 litres of condensate above a standard 6 litre chamber that flushes the toilet.
Lighting, bathroom design and behind-the-scenes innovation are also well represented. Sensio Lighting’s Affinity Magnetic Track Lighting System offers a flush-fit, cable-free solution for flexible under-cabinet lighting, while Flova UK’s DripFree Rainshower aims to eliminate dripping and limescale build-up after use.
Waters Baths of Ashbourne has made the list with Infinity Stream, a slim-edged freestanding bath with an integrated overflow and filling system.
For retailers and designers focused on installation efficiency, Magnetrace has been shortlisted for its patented undermount sink installation system, while Staycold Export’s Blastcool iXP1 has been recognised as a purpose-built outdoor refrigerator designed to withstand both extreme heat and winter frost.
Commenting on the shortlist, Sam Fisher, event director at kbb Birmingham, said: “Announcing the Innovation Award winners live at the show always makes for an exciting moment, and this year the shortlist is as strong as ever.
“It’s encouraging to see that year after year, this sector continually develops solutions that really do push the boundaries of creativity and genuinely spark excitement in the industry and with the consumer.”
Entries are judged on innovation, functionality and commercial viability by a panel of industry figures that includes kbbreview’s managing editor Andy Davies.
All shortlisted products will be on display at kbb Birmingham 2026, alongside more than 320 exhibitors, with the winners announced live during the show.