The Kitchen Bathroom Buying Group (KBBG) has launched an exclusive consumer finance package for its member in the UK.
The KBBG is part of Europe’s leading KBB buying group Der Kreis.
Members will be able to take advantage of a variety of consumer finance offers from today (October 1). The scheme is offered in association with Retracare, the finance arm of independent electrical retailers association Retra, and backed by Hitachi – the UK’s largest finance provider.
The options on offer to consumers include buy now pay later, interest-free credit over three to five years and interest-bearing credit over five to 10 years.
KBBG managing director Bill Miller said: “We have introduced this to help our members generate more kitchen and bathroom sales and better compete with the national retail chains who offer consumer finance. There is a gap in the market as most finance companies are reluctant to work with smaller independent businesses, such as kitchen studios. However, by utilising the strength of the KBBG, we have been able to put together a really good scheme backed by Hitachi ideally suited to the KBB industry.
“We have sought the support of the expert in the industry, Retracare, who has over 25 years’ experience in providing consumer protection. We can now offer our members a variety of finance options for their customers who wish to trade-up and to consider options that might have been previously out of reach. For the independent kitchen and bathroom specialist, this exclusive package not only includes kitchen furniture, appliances, worktops and bathrooms, the scheme also includes installation.
“Working together with Retracare, we have negotiated exclusive discounted rates for KBBG members, which are exceedingly attractive with the backing of the very best in the industry.”
Speaking on behalf of Retra, chief executive Howard Saycell commented: “This is a superb opportunity for Retracare and extends its reach to another associated area of the industry. We have tremendous experience, of a quarter of a century, in caring for and supporting consumers. We are proud to be able to extend our service to assist the members of the KBBG and their independent kitchen specialist businesses, and offering them a selection of very comprehensive and extensive packages. We are very excited about the new scheme and look forward to talking and working together with KBBG members.”
Miller added that the deal included an exclusive five-year warranty, with “preferential rates” on all appliance sales.