Words: Belinda Dangerfield from Qudaus Living
Given the uncertain market, retailers should look to the benefits of smart living, sustainability, and employee training to create a strong bedrock for the future.
As 2024 concludes, the kitchen industry is navigating a landscape shaped by changing consumer preferences, economic pressures, and technical advancements.
The market also experienced a lull starting in May, coinciding with the general election announcement. Political uncertainty led to a dip in consumer confidence, with many postponing large investments until after the budget.
Following the budget, consumer confidence is returning as customers gain clarity on the economic outlook. And this renewed optimism looks to be boosting engagement and spending on home investments.
However, the UK budget poses mixed impacts. Rising living costs may restrict disposable income, making consumers cautious with high-cost purchases such as kitchen renovations.
Future gazing
Looking forward, we anticipate moderate growth for the kitchen industry in 2025, with innovation and sustainability taking centre stage. As economic conditions stabilise, high-end renovations may gain momentum, while the mid-tier market remains cautious under high borrowing costs.
Sustainability will be a critical driver, as more consumers seek low-carbon materials and appliances with energy certifications. Retailers and manufacturers who effectively integrate these elements into their offerings will be well-positioned to capture demand.
Retailers who expand their selection of AI-enabled, app-controlled, and energy-efficient products will also attract tech-savvy consumers seeking convenience.
Health and wellness trends are also growing in strength, with consumers looking for appliances that support healthier lifestyles, such as steam ovens, air fryers, and advanced food-preservation refrigerators.
Adaptability
In 2025, Qudaus Living is prioritising investments in staff training through Continuous Professional Development (CPD) to ensure expertise in smart and sustainable kitchen technology, enhancing customer service and trust.
Our showroom is being updated with displays featuring cutting-edge smart appliances, from app-controlled taps to voice-activated ovens.
Beyond kitchens, Qudaus Living is expanding into other high-demand areas like boot rooms, utility rooms, pantries, media walls, bedrooms, and outdoor kitchens. This strategy aligns with growing interest in cohesive, functional home solutions that blend luxury with practicality.
To stay ahead in 2025, Qudaus Living will focus on adaptability and a customer-centric approach. Targeted marketing ensures resources are maximised, reaching audiences without unnecessary spending.
Kitchen retailers can benefit by creating personalised experiences, including in-store demonstrations of smart appliances and offering digital tools for designing and indicatively costing sustainable kitchens.
Displaying educational content on energy-efficient products and materials can also help retailers position themselves as trusted advisors.
Retailers should focus on flexibility and providing value-driven messaging, highlighting the long-term savings of sustainable appliances and eco-friendly materials. By providing expert insights, independent retailers can work to differentiate from their competitors and build customer loyalty.
What are retailers’ biggest opportunities for growth in 2025?
Smart Integration & Tech-Driven Experiences – Retailers who embrace smart technology and create immersive, tech-enhanced shopping experiences will lead the market next year.
Holistic Home Solutions – Retailers who expand beyond kitchens to offer integrated solutions for the entire home will be able to capture surefire growth.
Value-Driven Upgrades – Emphasising quality and long-term savings in kitchen products will resonate with budget-conscious customers in the year ahead.