Industry Legends

Industry Legends Selling Lifestyles Not Commodities_ Tony Nicholas on High-End Retail Success

In the latest episode of the Industry Legends Podcast, we go behind the scenes at the iconic Wigmore Street studio in London to speak with Tony Nicholas, Managing Director of Nicholas Anthony. With a heritage spanning more than 60 years, Nicholas Anthony has become a defining benchmark for luxury kitchens and bathrooms in the UK.

Combined Industry Legends and Movers Shakers recorded at the iconic Chrice Bence and Paul Bence

Welcome to a very special episode of Combined Industry Legends and Movers & Shakers, recorded at the iconic George Bence & Sons in Cheltenham. In this episode, Paul Bence and Chris Bence — representing over 170 years of independent merchant heritage — come together to share their experience, insight, and hard-earned wisdom with the industry. From navigating the toughest trading conditions in decades, to leadership in family business, people retention, diversification, cash flow, and the future of independent merchants, this is an open and honest conversation packed with practical lessons and real-world perspective. This episode is proudly sponsored by BKU Magazine — one of the UK’s leading trade publications for the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom (KBB) industry, delivering trusted industry news, expert commentary, market insight, and supplier-led innovation to professionals across the sector. If you’re an independent merchant, supplier, or industry leader looking for clarity, reassurance, and inspiration during challenging times, this is an episode not to miss.

Industry Legends Simon Taylor

Welcome to the latest episode of “Industry Legends.” Today’s guest is Simon Taylor of Simon Taylor Furniture. With a 40‑year legacy of crafting luxury bespoke kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and furniture — all handmade in England — Simon Taylor Furniture has built a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, design excellence and full‑project delivery from concept to installation. In this episode, the conversation explores how Simon combines traditional joinery and furniture‑making skills with modern design demands, offering insights into project management, bespoke manufacturing, and the future of home interiors — making him a perfect guest for “Industry Legends.” Today’s episode is proudly sponsored by InstallerSHOW, the UK’s leading trade show for professionals across heat, water, air, energy, plumbing, HVAC, and building services. InstallerSHOW brings together thousands of installers, manufacturers, and specifiers to explore innovations, network, and shape the future of the built environment. Listen to the full conversation now — enjoy the show.

Industry Legends Graham Hayden - Training Expert

Graham Hayden merges training programmes with Simon Acres – Industry LegendsAcclaimed KBB customer service and sales training provider [https://www.grahamhaydentraining.com/] Graham  [https://www.grahamhaydentraining.com/]Hayden has confirmed his intention to merge his future training commitments with KBB and merchant service provider Acres Consultancy.Graham, who will also feature in the Acres Consultancy ‘Industry Legends’ [https://simonacrestraining.co.uk/industry-legends/] series later this year, has trained more than 2,500 people over the last 13 years, and will continue to champion training within the KBB industry via an ongoing association with Acres Consultancy.Graham will maintain his commitment to directly deliver training to ArtiCAD’s customers supported by expert trainer Ray Isted.Graham Hayden says: “I’ve watched with interest Simon’s enthusiasm for training and am aware of the extremely positive feedback he has received from the industry.“I’m pleased that our mutual colleague Ray Isted already works with Simon and am happy to recommend them both. I will also be offering my support from time to time with guest training.Acres said: “It’s a great honour to be recognised by Graham and we are delighted to continue his good work supporting the industry. Graham has agreed to mentor and support our forward training plans and in this capacity he will still be contributing to our industry education.”

Industry Legends - Mark Rosenhaus New York kitchen designer

From New York’s Fast-Paced Design Scene: Insights with Mark RosenhausWe had the pleasure of chatting with Mark Rosenhaus, a legendary kitchen designer with an incredible 37-year career in New York. His insights into the world of kitchen design and the difference between the US and UK markets are fascinating.Here are some key takeaways: 1. The Big Apple: New York is known for its rapid pace, with the phrase “in a New York minute” meaning everything happens quickly. This mindset influences kitchen design, where every decision needs to be made swiftly. 2. How Mark Started: After studying architecture, Mark ventured into interior architecture and unexpectedly found himself in kitchen design. He learned that kitchen design is more than just putting in units—it’s about creating a personal, interactive experience with clients. 3. Breaking Into the Industry: In the US, many young designers “fall into” the kitchen design world, starting at big box stores or through referrals. Some may attend specialized schools, but formal education in kitchen design is less common. Instead, many start as apprentices or through interior design routes. 4. The Golden Proportion: Mark’s passion lies in the golden proportion—a natural design principle found everywhere from the human body to the galaxies. He incorporates this 62% ratio into his kitchen designs, from the layout to even the handles. It creates a harmonious, balanced feel in the space. 5. Sculpture in the Kitchen: Unlike standard designs, Mark’s approach is all about creating unique, sculptural kitchens. By using dynamic and mirror symmetry, he turns the kitchen into a work of art, with bespoke cabinetry and materials that challenge the conventional “box” design. 6. Design Beyond the Ordinary: Mark’s designs push the boundaries of what’s typical, incorporating sliding doors, circular cutouts, and bespoke features that make a kitchen feel truly special. It’s about creating excitement and balance for the user. Mark’s approach to design teaches us that kitchen design is not just about function but about making a personal, emotional connection with the space. For anyone in the UK or globally, embracing creative and artistic kitchen design can provide a competitive edge.🌿 Are you ready to move beyond the standard design? Let Mark’s insights inspire you to think outside the box!