The online retailer’s exclusive program offers numerous perks to design pros.
Image courtesy of Bed Bath & Beyond.
By Dianne M. Pogoda
Online retailer Bed Bath & Beyond’s exclusive Trade Program is a one-stop shop for designers and other specifiers looking to raise the style quotient while sticking to clients’ budgets.
Trade Program Members save 25 percent every day on a bigger-than-ever assortment of furniture, décor, rugs, appliances, fixtures and more. What’s more, trade pros get a free Welcome Rewards membership, which earns them 5 percent back on every purchase. Welcome Rewards also includes three free returns each month for in-store credit, and a 60-day extended return period allows clients to live with a piece and ensure it works well in their space.
The Rewards package also offers double rewards for reviews, bonus rewards for recommendations resulting in purchases, and three free price matches per month. And shipping is free on every order placed on a Trade account.
Bed Bath & Beyond Trade provides beneficial tools for busy pros and small business owners. The program aims to help make the design and selection process smooth and seamless. Designers may create a personalized design page to organize projects, share work, shop and update in real time. The design profile is hosted on the Bed Bath & Beyond platform and is shareable to a member’s social media, website, and/or directly to clients. Personalized support from dedicated expert Trade Specialists provides members with peace of mind — there’s always a friendly, familiar voice ready to help!
The Bed Bath & Beyond Trade program is free to join, and applying is easy. Provide a business name, contact information and additional business or professional verification, such as an employer identification number (EIN), to apply.
To learn more about this exclusive program for trade professionals and to join for free, click here.
NKBA | KBIS is thrilled to announce a new initiative set to launch in 2025. To enhance educational opportunities, NKBA | KBIS will offer free on-demand access to the Voices from the Industry (VFTI) Conference for student members.
The VFTI Conference, a cornerstone of KBIS, features a range of industry leaders and experts sharing valuable insights, trends, and innovations. Providing free on-demand access to VFTI supports educational growth and helps students build a strong foundation for their future careers. This forward-thinking approach ensures that emerging professionals are well-equipped with the latest insights and trends, positioning them for success in the ever-evolving kitchen and bath industry.
Students will benefit from accessing VFTI content at their convenience, staying abreast of industry developments, and enriching their academic experience. On-demand access for VFTI will be available to all NKBA | KBIS student members on February 27, 2025.
Formica Earns Biobased Certification: Formica Corp. has earned the U.S. Department of Agriculture Certified Biobased Product Label for its Formica Brand Laminate. This USDA recognition reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to using sustainable materials. The label displays a product’s biobased content, which is the portion of a product that comes from a renewable source, such as plant, animal, marine, or forestry feedstocks. Utilizing renewable biobased materials displaces the need for non-renewable petroleum-based chemicals. Third-party verification for a product’s biobased content is administered through the USDA BioPreferred® Program, which strives to increase the development, purchase, and use of biobased products. Formica invented high-pressure laminate in 1913. More details here.
Image courtesy of Urban Bonfire.
True, Urban Bonfire Collaborate on Outdoor: True Caliber, a leader in luxury residential refrigeration and high-end professional grills, and outdoor cooking specialist Urban Bonfire have partnered on a new collection of outdoor kitchen layouts that made its debut at High Point Market in October. The collaboration is centered around the Rockwell Social Grill by Caliber that pairs Urban Bonfire’s powder-coated finishes with True Caliber’s signature bold hues. Hardware and layouts incorporating True’s under-counter refrigerators and refrigeration drawers are fully customizable. Refrigerators are available with paneled or glass doors. Configurations can include L-shaped, galley, straight, or other custom designs. True and Caliber Grills formed a strategic partnership in February, making True the sole manufacturer of Caliber Grills. Learn more here.
Neff Elected PMI President: Bob Neff has been elected president of the Plumbing Manufacturers International 2026 Board of Directors. Neff is an enterprise product compliance and regulatory manager for Masco Corp. and Delta Faucet Company. He succeeds Belinda Wise, a member of the Neoperl US board of directors, who will remain on the board as immediate past president. Other board members include vice president Lowell Lampen, Kohler; board secretary/treasurer Paige Riddle, LSP Products; and at-large directors Troy Benavidez, LIXIL; John Confrey, Falcon Water Technologies; Tim O’Keefe, Symmons Industries; and Kate Olinger, Uponor-GF Building Flow Solutions. Learn more about PMI here.
Industry News
40 Is the New 30: The typical age of first-time home-buyers has climbed to an all-time high of 40 years old, up from age 30 in 2010, according to the National Association of REALTORS®‘ 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. What’s more, the share of first-time home buyers dropped to a record low of 21 percent. The reasons for these swings are largely attributable to low inventory caused by a housing shortage and high mortgage interest rates. Additionally, existing homeowners with low-interest-rate loans are not eager to move and incur a higher rate, so they are opting to remodel rather than move, as they watch their home equity swell. For existing homeowners who do sell, the average age of repeat buyers is 62. More details here.
Brothers Osborne Performing at DCW: Design & Construction Week 2026 will end with the IBS Closing Concert featuring country duo Brothers Osborne, Feb. 19, 5 to 7 pm, at the Orange County Convention Center. John and JT Osborne have garnered 13 GRAMMY nominations, including a 2022 win for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. They are six-time CMA Vocal Duo of the Year winners, four-time ACM Duo of the Year winners and recipients of both the ASCAP Vanguard Award and multiple RIAA Gold and Platinum certifications. Tickets are $65 and must be purchased online. Doors open at 5, and the concert starts at 6. Register here.
Sinise to Keynote at Coverings: Registration is open for the 2026 Coverings expo at the Las Vegas Convention Center, March 30 to April 2. The organization revealed that actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise will lead a keynote-style conversation with industry leaders on April 1, 8:30 to 9:15 am. Coverings’ philanthropic arm, Coverings Cares, will make a significant contribution to the Gary Sinise Foundation, established by the actor in 2011. The foundation builds specially adapted, mortgage-free homes for America’s most severely wounded heroes, among its many programs. Attendee donations will be matched in part to further support and amplify the foundation’s ongoing efforts. Learn more and register for the show here.
Chapter Updates
Smart-Home Seminar in Indiana: The Indiana Chapter is hosting an event that blends high design and high tech on Nov. 20, 5:30 to 8:30 pm, at sponsor Lee Supply Carmel, 415 W Carmel Drive in Carmel, IN. “Home Automation Unlocked” will be an interactive evening of inspiration with Jim Kluka, an MIT-trained aerospace engineer and founder of Exceptional Home Technologies. Learn about lighting and shade control, wireless music systems, hidden sound transducers, frame TV integration, and other smart-home innovations, and earn 0.1 CEU for this event. Registration is $20 for NKBA members, $30 for non-members. More detail here.
Celebrate With Rocky Mountain: Join the Rocky Mountain Chapter for its Holiday Casino & Auction Fundraiser benefiting BuildStrong Academy. Enjoy casino games, an auction, prizes, food, drinks, and networking, all while supporting a nonprofit that trains and connects people to careers in the building trades. The party takes place Nov. 20, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm, at Finelines Appliance, 19185 Lincoln Avenue in Parker, CO. Registration is $25 for NKBA members, $35 for non-members. More info here.
Party On in Tennessee: The Tennessee Chapter will welcome friends to its annual Christmas Party on Dec. 3, 6 to 8 pm, at Ann Sacks, 514 Fontana Drive in Nashville. Enjoy festive bites and drinks as the chapter celebrates the season. Admission is free with a donation to support the chapter’s Skilled Trades Workshops for Kids. Bring new, unwrapped basic tools, like hammers, screwdrivers, tape measures, nails, or beginner tool kits available at most hardware stores. Other options include unwrapped toys or non-perishable food items. Learn more here.
Go Glam With Metro New York: The Metro New York Chapter is hosting its annual holiday party Dec. 3, from 7 to 11 pm, at The Piermont, 494 Fire Island Avenue, Babylon, NY. Dress code is “Holiday Glam,” and tickets are $70 for NKBA members, $80 for non-members. The evening promises good company, great food, and DJ Xcel to keep the dance floor packed as the chapter installs its 2026 Board of Directors and honors outgoing president Jason Brathwaite. More info here.
A series of innovative celebrations highlighted the chapter’s 50th Anniversary.
By NKBA Staff
The NKBA Northern California Chapter marked its 50th anniversary this fall, celebrating five decades of community, volunteerism, and leadership in the kitchen and bath industry. For Chapter President Nureed Saeed, founder of Nu Interiors, the milestone was more than a party—it was a reflection on legacy, belonging, and the power of design to bring people together. “We wanted to celebrate our history, but also highlight the people and partnerships that make our chapter what it is,” said Saeed. “This milestone is truly about 50 years of volunteerism and connection.”
Honoring Excellence and Volunteerism
Over the past several years, the Northern California Chapter has been recognized nationally for excellence in leadership and programming—earning numerous NKBA Star Awards, including: Best President; Best Secretary/Treasurer; Best Membership Chair; Best Programs Chair; Best Student-Focused Initiative; and Best Community Initiative.
The chapter’s Student Design Symposium—created by past Programs Chair Sharon Washington—was later adopted by NKBA National as part of its learning initiatives. Its Community Initiative, developed with the Make It Home organization and Marin Foster Care Association, provides appliances to foster care parents in need through local dealers and manufacturers.
“These awards aren’t just a reflection on the council,” said Saeed. “They represent the hard work of volunteers who give their time and passion to keep this chapter thriving. It’s 50 years of volunteerism that makes this possible.”
A Year of Celebration
The 50th Anniversary Celebration on November 6 brought together members, sponsors, and friends at Lucky Strike in Alameda for a lively 1970s-themed evening filled with bowling, arcade games, dancing, a fajita and ice cream bar, and a raffle prize generously donated by SKS Appliances.
Miele provided an elegant coffee bar experience, while Luxus German Cabinetry, a Nobilia partner, served as the event’s Title Sponsor. Additional support came from Gold Sponsors All Natural Stone, Ferguson Home, and Miele; Silver Sponsors True Residential, Cosentino, Zephyr, and Kohler/Zurier; and Annual Chapter Sponsors IRG, DeWils Fine Cabinetry, Vadara, Zurier/Kohler, True Residential, BlueStar, Ferguson Home, Stoneville, and Rigg’s Distributing.
During the celebration, Saeed invited guests to contribute to a time capsule filled with member photos, notes, and mementos—symbolizing the enduring spirit of community that defines the chapter. The capsule will be hand-delivered to NKBA | KBIS Headquarters in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and entrusted to NKBA | KBIS Global President & CEO Bill Darcy for safekeeping until it’s opened at the 75th Anniversary in 2050.
The chapter also launched a digital storytelling series, “What’s Your NKBA Story?”, featuring reflections from longtime and new members—including an interview with Darcy on the meaning of community and the next era of NKBA leadership.
Looking Ahead
As the Northern California Chapter looks to its next 50 years, it does so with renewed energy and purpose. In 2026, the chapter will debut a new Design Competition in partnership with Zephyr and Modern Luxury, with winning designs featured in its Kitchen & Bath Issue next fall.
“Coming out of COVID, our goal was to rebuild connection—to make this the most inclusive, welcoming, and caring community possible,” said Saeed. “We now have more volunteers than ever. That says everything about who we are. Fifty years of volunteerism—that’s what this chapter represents. We’ve made it this far because people care. And that same love for this community will carry us through the next 50.”
Rapidly evolving home technology stands to reshape the modern bath, as personal lifestyles drive design decisions
Image courtesy of Getty Images.
Bethlehem, PA – (November 11, 2025) — The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA | KBIS), the world’s leading trade association for the $228 billion kitchen and bath industry, representing nearly 55,000 North American kitchen and bath industry professionals, has released its 2026 Bath Trends Report. Comprised of data generated from a survey completed by nearly 700 industry experts, including designers, manufacturers, remodelers, architects, and more, the report provides a comprehensive look into current and upcoming trends in residential baths that will have the biggest impact in 2026 and beyond.
According to the report, the bath design landscape is currently in a state of flux – the evolution of bathroom technology marks an upcoming shift emerging in the home. As residential tech continues to present more opportunity and innovation, three areas of growth in the bath are standing out:
Technology in Design Inspiration: Younger homeowners are turning to AI for design inspiration that integrates smart features, sustainability, and style.
Technology in Fixtures: Smart home integration is expanding rapidly through intelligent showers, lighting, and energy systems.
Technology for Wellness: Health-oriented features, stress-reduction tools, and aging-in-place innovations are becoming mainstream.
Beyond technology, personalized tastes and lifestyles are continuing to be the driving force behind color, style, and materials selection, as well as storage configurations and bath layout. “Bath design is becoming deeply personal,” said Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO of NKBA | KBIS. “Beyond considerations like resale value, designers are focusing on how spaces support a homeowner’s individual rituals, preferences, and self-care routines. This perspective encourages creativity, niche trends, and designs that truly reflect how people live today.”
Light Neutrals Win: In near total agreement, 96% of respondents identified neutrals as the most popular bath colors, with off-white (58%), light brown/tan (54%), and white (40%) earning the dominant response ahead of dark brown (30%), black (18%), and dark gray/slate (18%).
Shades of Green: Brown-based greens – sage (64%) and olive (43%) – are expected to be popular choices, while bolder hues – teal/turquoise (19%) and emerald/juniper (16%) – received far less attention.
Timeless Design: Transitional/timeless design tops the list, with 70% of respondents naming it as a popular style in the next three years. The style is followed by organic/natural (65%) and contemporary/modern/minimalism (57%) designs.
Removing Fine Lines: Homeowners are looking for smaller or no grout lines on the floor, according to 89% of those surveyed. Additionally, 91% agree that durability and practicality to minimize upkeep is the top consideration for choosing a flooring material, supporting 80% who believe large format flooring will be the most popular over the next three years.
Natural Materials: Wood-faced vanities (62%) have overtaken painted (53%) in popularity as biophilic design continues to be prioritized in the bath.
Polished Is Out: For faucets, matte (54%), brushed (51%), and satin (46%) were all more popular than a polished finish (39%), playing into organic, natural design cues.
A Growing Footprint
The overall bath footprint will increase to make room for wellness-centered spaces, universal design considerations, and efficient storage solutions, according to 72% of respondents. Meanwhile, the space allocation in the primary bath is a top priority according to 89% of respondents. More than half (55%) say a larger shower size is more important than having a bathtub, which allows for more spa-like features and amenities within the shower, including steam options, saunas, aromatherapy, chromotherapy, and integrated seating and shelving.
Hospitality Inspiration for Wellness
Tying bath design to a homeowner’s hotel or resort experience is expected to be a popular practice, according to 77% of respondents, supporting the unification of wellness, technology, and sustainability into a singular, cohesive design philosophy. This isn’t about one individual feature like a smart toilet (though 51% agree smart toilets will rise in popularity over the next three years) or a new tile color (patterned and textured tiles are gaining prominence, according to 66%). Instead, it’s a fundamental shift in how we perceive and use the primary bathroom. It’s moving from a purely utilitarian space to a sanctuary dedicated to physical and mental well-being, while also being smart and environmentally conscious.
Spreading the Light
Lighting quality is a top consideration when it comes to bath design, according to 91% of respondents. In practice, this means prioritizing layers and levels of lighting:
Task Lighting: 92% agree that task lighting should always be included in the primary bath
Mood Lighting: 51% predict mood lighting in shower will gain prominence
Time-of-Day Lighting: 80% are including nighttime-specific lighting, and 88% list natural lighting as a top priority
Aesthetic Lighting: 47% favor integrated lighting in mirrors over the next three years
Custom Bath Solutions
On a growing scale, smart technology is being integrated to achieve a more individualized daily ritual and as a tool to impact overall well-being. On a simpler level, custom storage solutions with configurable modules to simplify life are being thoughtfully integrated into bath vanity and cabinetry design. Item-specific storage includes built-in storage for hair tools, makeup, and medications, electrical integration, custom dividers and organizers to maximize drawer efficiency, and charging stations for electronic devices within vanity cabinetry. Coupled with personalized style inspiration, these considerations represent a deep shift towards bespoke living.
Accessibility is Elegant
Aging-in-place design elements have become so mainstream that in addition to function, these universal design fixtures prioritize beauty as well. Grab bars, curbless showers, shower benches, barrier-free shower entries, and wider doors are subtle, crucial safety features that make a primary bath look more luxurious and elevated. Of those surveyed, 32% agree that aging-in-place is now a mainstream trend; 48% agree that it’s on its way to becoming one.
This survey was conducted online among 688 respondents, who are members of the NKBA community and targeted occupations including designers (which make up 61% of responses), showrooms, dealers, specialists, manufacturers, kitchen and bath remodelers/contractors, and architects. If not qualified as the previous occupations, fabricators, home centers, honorary members, and installers were excluded from the field. Respondents must have designed, specified, or sold products for at least one bath project in the past year. All ages qualified and gender was allowed to fall naturally. The NKBA sample-sourced, self-administered survey was augmented with a third-party sample interviewer-administered survey.
About the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS)
NKBA is the not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show® (KBIS). With 55,000 members in all segments of the kitchen and bath industry, the NKBA has informed, educated, and supported the industry since the association was founded in 1963. The mission of the NKBA is to inspire, lead, and empower the kitchen and bath industry through community, professional certification, and learning and events. For more information, go to NKBA.org or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522). KBIS® and NKBA® are registered trademarks of the National Kitchen & Bath Association.
The Chapter Hosted Its First Annual Alamo City BBQ Cookoff
By NKBA Staff
The sweet smell of mesquite smoke and the spirit of community filled the air at Good Bull Ranch in Spring Branch, Texas, as the NKBA Texas South Plains Chapter hosted its 1st Annual Alamo City BBQ Cookoff on October 24–25, 2025.
This inaugural event brought together designers, builders, manufacturers, and BBQ enthusiasts from across the region for two unforgettable days of friendly competition, live music, and good old-fashioned Texas hospitality—all in support of NKBA’s Scholarship Fund for trade and design students.
Organized by Glenn McNamara, Programs Chair for the Texas South Plains Chapter, the Cookoff wasn’t just about great BBQ—it was about building the future of the industry. “Our goal was to do more than just host a competition,” said McNamara. “We wanted to create a meaningful event that brings people together and gives back. Every dollar raised helps a student pursue a career in the trades or interior design. That’s something worth celebrating.”
Smoke, Spice, and Scholarship
Over the course of two days, teams competed for over $4,000 in prizes across ten categories, including Brisket, Spare Ribs, and Chicken—plus a lineup of crowd-pleasing “Jackpot” contests featuring Chili, Queso, Margaritas, Desserts, Beans, Salsa, Bloody Marys, and Cook’s Choice entries.
Competition was fierce but friendly, with judges using a double-masked system to ensure fairness. The Grand Champion and Reserve Champion were crowned Saturday afternoon, with 50% of all Jackpot winnings donated directly back to the NKBA Scholarship Fund.
In true Texas fashion, Friday night turned into a lively community gathering as guests enjoyed live music, BBQ tastings, and a BYOB social that ran late into the evening. Attendees were encouraged to “bring plenty of food and drink to share,” creating an atmosphere that was equal parts competition and family reunion.
A Community of Support
The event’s success was made possible by the generous support of sponsors, including Dacor, Ferguson Home, JennAir, Fisher & Paykel, Moen, Samsung, and TOTO, as well as numerous local partners and NKBA members.
Sponsorship levels ranged from Event and Awards Sponsors to Gold and Silver Raffle Partners, ensuring companies of all sizes could participate in supporting education and workforce development.
“Every brand that contributed helped make this vision a reality,” McNamara added. “This was a true team effort from our industry, and we’re incredibly grateful.”
A Tradition in the Making
With dozens of competitors, hundreds of attendees, and thousands of dollars raised for education, the first-ever NKBA Alamo City BBQ Cookoff set a high bar for future years.
The chapter has already begun planning next year’s event, with even more opportunities for local businesses, students, and community members to get involved.
“This was just the beginning,” said McNamara. “We proved that when our industry comes together, we can have a great time—and make a real impact.”
Gaggenau’s updated Combi-Steam oven in the new Expressive Series. Courtesy of Gaggenau.
By NKBA Staff
Company News
Gaggenau Updates Steam Oven: As part of its new Expressive Series, Gaggenau has updated its Combi-Steam oven. It offers 14 heating methods, including sous-vide at controlled low temperatures, a new Keep Warm mode, and a full-surface hidden broiler that pairs with steam functions. Enhancements also include an animated “wizard” to guide homeowners through features, as well as a door that opens automatically at the end of the cooking process to prevent burning or overcooking. An integrated cartridge-based cleaning system simplifies maintenance, ensuring longevity and purity of performance. The Combi-Steam oven will be available late this year. Learn more about the Expressive Series here.
GEA Sets “Blue Wave” Record: GE Appliances’ 2025 Blue Wave volunteer initiative drew a record number of employees for its corporate-wide day of service last month. Nearly 1,000 volunteers from offices, plants, and field locations across the United States partnered with local nonprofits to address impactful community projects. These included combating food insecurity, environmental cleanups at public spaces, adapting mechanical toys for children with physical limitations, and refreshing museums and schools with painting, deep cleaning, and staff/teacher training on projects emphasizing the basics of “making” and STEM education. KBB has the story.
True Residential’s new 36-inch wine column in its newest olive color. Photo courtesy of True.
That’s a Lot of Wine: True Residential is introducing 36-inch wine columns at KBIS 2026. The larger units store more than 150 bottles and complement the current 24-inch, 30-inch, and under-counter models. Wine preservation features include two independent zones for temperature and humidity control, TruLumina® LED lighting with 14 color options, and full-extension, soft-close wine racks that prevent vibration. Hardware and finishes are available in True’s full range of custom options available through the Build Your True program, including its newest: olive. More info here.
Image courtesy of Wood-Mode.
Wood-Mode Returns to KBIS: After a 10-year hiatus, Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry is returning to KBIS for the 2026 edition in Orlando, Feb. 17 to 19. The company, a leading manufacturer of luxury cabinetry, is co-locating with custom hardware manufacturer Stoll Industries, one of its strategic partners, in Booth S23019 in the South Hall of the Orange County Convention Center. The company said it has been building its strategic process over the past six years, investing significantly in manufacturing and sustainability upgrades, and dedicating resources to ensuring top product quality and customer experience, and that it’s now time to reach the industry at KBIS again. More info on Wood-Mode here.
Chapter Updates
Fabuwood Tour With Northern NJ: Join the Northern New Jersey Chapter for a two-part November event on Nov. 11. The morning begins at 10:30 am at Fabuwood’s state-of-the-art cabinetry facility at 69 Blanchard Street in Newark, and includes a factory tour, lunch, and presentation. This portion of the day is complimentary, but registration is required since space is limited. This will be followed by the monthly chapter meeting at Appliance Place, 2590 US 22, Scotch Plains, NJ, starting with the board meeting (all members invited) at 4:30. Enjoy networking, light bites, cocktails, and door prizes while meeting appliance manufacturing partners. Cost is $25 per person for the evening meeting. Registration here.
Design Awards in New England: The Northern New England Chapter will celebrate winners of its yearly design competition at Design Awards Ceremony 2025 on Nov. 19, 5:30 to 8:30 pm, at Splash Spritzo, 244 Needham Street, Newton, MA. The banquet is sponsored by Kohler and LX Hausys and registration is $35. More info here.
Appreciation and Awards in NoCal: The California Capital Chapter is hosting its annual Member Appreciation and Awards Gala on Nov. 21, 5:30 pm, at SEQUOIA at the Cannery, 1601 Alhambra Boulevard in Sacramento. Celebrate the talent and dedication within the chapter, from designer awards to volunteers, committee members and rising student stars. Registration is $100 per person or $750 for a table of 8 and includes dinner, drinks, awards, raffles, and a few surprises. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Holiday Toy Drive to spread joy for the season. More detail here.
Holiday Cheer with Mid Atlantic: The Mid Atlantic Chapter is hosting its annual holiday party Dec. 4 from 5 to 8 pm at Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, 4050 S 26th Street, Ste. 100, in Philadelphia. Celebrate the season with delicious bites and drinks, in collaboration with ASID Pennsylvania East, IFDA Philadelphia Chapter, and AAPI Design Alliance. Guests will enjoy wreath decorating, a bourbon tasting, a wine tasting by Red Brick Winery, a photo booth, and more. Admission is free, with attendees asked to bring a gift from the Amazon Wish List. More details here.
As I’ve shared in recent weeks, we continue to pay close attention to ongoing changes in federal trade regulations and are actively monitoring how new tariff policies are impacting businesses in our sector. The newly-released 3Q25 NKBA/John Burns Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) Report provides some important, early insights.
What we heard from K&B pros in conducting this survey – and continue to hear – is that tariffs, along with continued consumer uncertainty, are slowing business growth and restricting opportunities. The KBMI rated 50 out of 100 in 3Q25, down from 53 in Q2, pointing to generally flat activity.
More than half (55%) of surveyed K&B firms cited tariffs/trade policies as their top constraint to growth over the next six months. The effects are being felt across the board, with increases in material and other costs, higher prices, and decreases in margins and consumer confidence. Higher building material costs (44%), a byproduct of rising tariffs, were cited as the third most impactful constraint to growth.
Suppliers raised product prices to K&B retailers by 6.1% YOY in 3Q25, up from 4.6% in 2Q25, with the steepest increases reported for lighting and vanities. Tariff cost concerns led K&B firms to increase prices they charge for products and services by 4.6% YOY on average during 3Q25.
Tariffs also impacted margins, which declined in the last quarter; more than two-thirds (83%) of firms told us they had flat or lower gross margins YOY. The strongest margin pressures were felt by the manufacturing and retail sectors. Seventy percent of respondents in the manufacturing sector said tariffs are putting pressure on margins, with most (54%) unable to fully pass on cost increases.
Changes to the importing and exporting of critical materials in residential remodeling is a significant issue felt by millions of households. NKBA is a global organization and we remain sensitive to the profound business challenges faced by many of our members in North America and throughout the world.
While our most recent data clearly shows that uncertainty and market volatility are top of mind for the majority of our sector, we are paying close attention to other related developments, including rising housing costs, to get in front of any impediments that may cause homeowners to postpone or pause their home remodeling projects.
Make no mistake: we remain focused on keeping our industry competitive, relevant, and thriving. That means staying front-footed with our advocacy colleagues in Washington, coordinating closely with our international partners, and harnessing the NKBA’s research and relationships to prepare our 55,000 members for what comes next.
We will continue to provide resources and share the most relevant insights on how tariffs and other macroeconomic factors are affecting our industry.
We’re giving thanks for our 70 NKBA Chapters this month – and always! This month, we’ll have our own virtual “Friendsgiving” as our 2025 Chapter Officers will be joined by our incoming 2026 Chapter Officers on our update calls. We look forward to seeing the teams together on Zoom in a couple of weeks!
Please take a moment to nominate your Chapter Officers and Events for the NKBA Chapter Star Awards, to be announced at NKBA Leader2Leader on Monday, February 16, 2026 in Orlando, Florida.
It’s time for 2026 Chapter Officers to plan your travel for KBIS! Please review our travel email and let us know if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you in Orlando!
Thank you for saving the January dates for our mandatory virtual Chapter Officer trainings: President (Tuesday, January 6, 4:00 PM ET); Programs Chairs (Tuesday, January 13, 3:00 PM ET); Communications Chairs (Tuesday, January 13, 4:00 PM ET); Membership Chairs (Wednesday, January 14, 3:00 PM ET); and Secretary/Treasurers (Wednesday, January 14, 4:00 PM ET). Zoom links will be sent closer to the dates.
What a marvelous month ahead, especially with these exciting events: Northern California50th Anniversary celebration; Texas Gulf Coast Student Bus Tour; Oklahoma Friendsgiving & Membership Drive; Minnesota Design Awards Gala “A Night Under the Stars”; San Diego Invention vs Innovation; Northern New EnglandDesign Awards; Texas Hill Country AI Learning Workshop; Columbia River Student Trade Show; and Rocky MountainHoliday Casino and Auction Fundraiser to benefit BuildStrong Academy for the skilled trades.
Have a great week and we’ll see you all soon on Zoom for our combined 2025-2026 Chapter Officers calls. Wishing you, your families, your friends and colleagues a wonderful holiday!
