The British Institute of Fitted Interiors Specialists (BIFIS) has celebrated its milestone 20th anniversary, with CEO Damian Walters teasing that an “exciting chapter is about to commence” for the organisation.
BIFIS was launched back in 2006 – however until recently, it was known as “The British Institute of Kitchen Bedroom and Bathroom Installation” (BiKBBI), and before that as simply “The Institute for Kitchen Bedroom and Bathroom Installers” (iKBBI).
Originally launched to represent installers in the KBB industry, in 2007, the organisation was granted official institute status from the then-secretary of state, Sir John Hutton.
In the years since, BIFIS has since broadened its scope to include fitted interiors on a wider scale. Today, the organisation says it represents thousands of specialist tradespeople and installation businesses nationwide, along with prominent manufacturers, suppliers and fitted interiors retailers.
To celebrate its 20th anniversary, the organisation held a reception at the Houses of Parliament yesterday, bringing together industry figures to reflect on its history and achievements over the past two decades.
BIFIS CEO Damian Walters also briefly discussed the launch of the organisation’s manifesto, Vision 2030. Outlining BIFIS’ roadmap for the next several years, the organisation says it has plans to both regionalise its operations in 2027, as well as establish a national training facility.
Looking back on the organisation’s legacy, Walters commented: “Celebrating 20 years of BIFIS with many of our nearest and dearest has been a privilege and an honour. We have done some fantastic things over two decades, but as I said yesterday, the exciting chapter is about to commence.
“I must thank my team, past and present, for contributing their stitch to remarkable tapestry. Their unwavering effort makes a difference and will continue to do so. To our registered professionals, retail partners, corporate advocates, strategic associates, the amazing industry press and our supporters – I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you do. You can all take pride in your vision and support for the work we do… so here’s to the next 20.”