How would you define hib’s core proposition today?

We stay design-led in our innovation, but it’s always rooted in real-world usefulness rather than novelty for novelty’s sake. Our approach is considered design that adds value, through thoe “clever little ideas” that make products easier to live with and fit.

We’ve built brand trust over 35 years, starting with innovations like the original demister pad, and that long track record still underpins confidence in the range today. As hib continues to evolve its identity, our recent rebrand is a subtle refinement that reflects a more modern, design-forward positioning while staying true to what we’re known for.

And for installers, the proposition is simple: confidence on site, with products designed to reduce complications, speed up fitting, and minimise callbacks.

What investments have you made recently, and what benefits will they bring to installers?

We’ve invested in developing our hib.pro platform for installers, with a focus on making installation and handling more efficient. A lot of that comes down to clever engineering that solves practical problems, rather than adding complexity.

We’re applying that thinking through time-saving features, more ergonomic packaging, integrated technology where it genuinely helps, and durability that stands up to day-to-day use. The overall aim is to make products that feel premium, but also make the installer’s job easier from unpacking through to final fix.

Stock availability and lead times remain critical, so how are you ensuring reliability of supply?

We’ve invested in warehousing and logistics, including expanding capacity through our larger Tamworth HQ, to support stronger availability and faster fulfilment. 

At the same time, we work hard to maintain strong supplier relationships to protect continuity and resilience in the supply chain.

And we’re equally committed to strong relationships with our retail partners across the UK and Ireland, so we can plan demand more accurately and keep service levels consistent for them.

Simplicity of installation is increasingly important, so how do you factor installer feedback into product design?

Installer feedback is a vital input for us, because installation is a critical part of the equation. We gather that insight directly, including through an installer survey, and that feedback helps shape the development of the hib.pro platform. We’re also supporting installers more proactively through education, with a series of new how-to videos launching in AW26 to make fitting and troubleshooting even more straightforward than before.

Our products also have easier fixings and more pre-assembled parts than many other brands, alongside clearer fixing systems and intuitive wiring configurations.

Where do you see the biggest opportunities for growth in the bathroom sector?

We see strong growth opportunities in the ongoing shift toward bathrooms as wellness spaces, where consumers want a more premium look and a more considered experience.

At the same time, expectations are rising around integrated features, but the demand isn’t for gimmicks; it’s for functionality that feels seamless and genuinely improves everyday use. Another major driver is the reality of smaller spaces, which increases the need for multi-functional products that deliver more value per square metre.

For us, the opportunity is a comb–ination of refining what already works and evolving functionality in smarter ways. 

For us, innovation is much more about making our established core technology more efficient, more intuitive, and better integrated, rather than simply adding more and more features.

That doesn’t mean innovation slows down, but it becomes more considered, focusing on how features are delivered and how they perform in real homes.