The NKBA Global Connect program serves as a strategic bridge for international brands looking to connect with industry professionals in the North American marketplace. By providing a blend of market intelligence, brand positioning, and community access, the program equips global companies with the tools necessary to thrive in the competitive $228 billion North American kitchen and bath industry.
As Christian Käsemann, Head of Export at Global Connect member Ballerina-Küchen, notes: “Only as an NKBA member can you get access to so much valuable information… in the end, it is the people who make the NKBA Global Connect program a home for international brands.”
Mission and Vision
The program is driven by a clear mandate to connect and grow the industry on a worldwide scale.
- Mission: To connect and grow the kitchen and bath industry globally through an international membership program.
- Vision: As stated by Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO of NKBA | KBIS, the program “forges business connections that drive and engage the kitchen and bath industry around the globe, informing, inspiring, and empowering the industry worldwide.”
Membership and Program Tiers
The 2026 International Business Membership is designed specifically for brands new to the North American market (or those with less than $10M in annual North American revenue).
The International Business Membership is a basic NKBA membership designed for new-to-market brands and costs $3,750.
The Advisor Access Add-On includes approximately 20 hours of consultation with vetted industry experts, representing a $5,000 value, and is available to Global Connect members for an additional $2,500.
The Enhanced Marketing Package offers members elevated digital brand awareness at a nearly 20 percent discount and costs $4,500.
The All-Access Bundle combines Advisor Access and Enhanced Marketing at a 7 percent discount for a total cost of $6,500.
Exclusive Benefits and Resources
Global Connect members receive a comprehensive suite of benefits tailored to reduce risk and increase visibility:
- Proprietary Market Research: Full access to reports (a $20,000+ value) covering 2026 Kitchen and Bath Trends, Sustainability, Lighting Design, bi-annual Market Outlooks and quarterly Kitchen & Bath Market Index updates
- Marketing & Visibility: Opportunities for a unique NKBA.org blog post, a profile page on NKBA.org, and inclusion in the Quarterly Roundup Article distributed to international press.
- Education & Support: Access to the Online Resource Library, the NKBA Job Board, and opportunities to create CEU (Continuing Education Unit) programs for North American designers.
- KBIS Advantages: Members receive discounts for the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), the largest trade show of its kind in North America, featuring over 650 exhibitors and 500,000 square feet of space.
The Global Connect Advisor Network
A cornerstone of the program is access to a vetted group of independent industry experts. These advisors provide consultation on topics vital to North American success, such as sales force development, distribution channels, and code compliance. Featured advisors include:
- Jeanne Chung (Cozy Stylish Chic)
- Greg Rohl (The Rohl Model)
- Bill Morely (HillStaffer)
- John Watson (IAPMO Group)
- Andrew Savant (Pinnacle Sales)
- And many others specializing in logistics, training, compliance, and design.
A Global Footprint: 2026 and Beyond
The NKBA Global Connect network currently includes members and Strategic Alliance Partners from countries including Germany, Italy, Brazil, China, Turkey, and the UK, among others.
The 2026 Calendar highlights the program’s international presence, with NKBA participating in or tracking major global events including KBIS 2026 (Orlando), Maison et Objet (Paris), Salone Del Mobile (Milan), and Unicera (Türkiye).
The Team Behind Global Connect
The program is led by a dedicated team of industry professionals: Noëlle C. Lavery, Director of Global Connect; Steven Campeau, Senior Manager of Global & Government Relations; Kevin Shea, Sales Specialist for Global Accounts; and Geraldine Morrison, Chief Partnerships Officer for Domestic & Global Brands.
Together, they provide the strategic direction and hands-on support that make Global Connect a trusted gateway for international expansion.
Begin Your North American Growth Journey
For global brands ready to enter or strengthen their presence in the North American kitchen and bath market, NKBA Global Connect offers the expertise, insights, and connections needed for long-term success. To learn more about becoming a Global Connect member and gaining access to NKBA’s advisor network and market intelligence, contact Kevin Shea at kshea@nkba.org or visit nkba.org/globalconnect.
