How Will Supply Chain Issues & Rising Inflation Impact My Kitchen Project?
Households across the country are currently facing challenges as they attempt to renovate or build their dream homes, with various economic forces impacting the UK kitchen supply chain and rising prices.
We have created this article to share our industry insight so that we may offer initial advice and support to those renovating their kitchens and homes at this uncertain time.
The Doom & Gloom
In recent years, product price increases and shortages have become a mounting issue across all sectors for brands big and small. Unfortunately, the kitchen industry is not immune to these challenges. Brexit, a global pandemic, a war in Europe and a rising rate of inflation have created genuine problems for anyone undertaking an extensive home build or renovation.
The underlying supply chain issues are a problem worldwide and they are present at almost every stage, from material shortages halting production, staff absences due to sickness and quarantine, a shortage of lorry drivers and even workers to unload the goods. Alongside global issues, the UK has been dealing with a shortage of HGV drivers, and a shipping crisis which is likely to worsen with China’s recent lockdown, ultimately impacting our supply chain even further.
Specifically in our industry, material shortages have had a direct impact on not only demand but also price, with the new price list for 2023 coming into effect only a few weeks ago. Although furniture and worktops remain in high demand, we are seeing the biggest pressure on our appliance partners, and we know that some manufacturers have months of long waiting lists and backorders that won’t be fulfilled this year.
If you have been renovating, building, or simply trying to upgrade your kitchen appliances over the last few years, you will have no doubt witnessed delays to your project. Many people have experienced empty spaces in their kitchens where appliances should be and price increases that show no sign of stopping.
However, it’s not doom and gloom… We might just have the solution for you, along with some tips that can secure your design, appliances, and schedule whilst guaranteeing you the best price for your project.
Read on to learn more.
The KCA 2022 Product & Price Freeze
During our thirty-year history, we have navigated many uncertain times. From starting our company in 1993 on the back of the UK’s most prolonged recession to the Great Recession in 2007-2009, Brexit, a global pandemic, and many evolving changes to government legislation affecting the property market.
From this experience, we have learnt to predict where our industry is heading and to adapt quickly and react appropriately to safeguard our clients, their investments and ultimately, our family-run business.
Given the rising inflation rates, economic uncertainty and mounting supply-chain issues this year, we have worked closely with our partners and suppliers to protect our clients. We are delighted to offer our ‘Product & Price Freeze’, a set of extensive measures to combat product shortages and price increases.
Our ‘Product & Price Freeze’ ensures that our clients receive the best price and product in time for their installation date. Before a recent price increase for 2023 projects, we froze prices with our suppliers so that our existing clients won’t pay more. We have secured this freeze until the 16th of December, enabling new and existing clients to benefit from these savings even on projects due to be completed in 2023. With savings applied across all furniture, including kitchens, bedrooms, studies, utility rooms, home bars and media spaces, we are thrilled to be able to help our clients save thousands.
If you would like to find out more information, call our showroom on 01344883777 or book a free design consultation.
3 Tips to Combat Kitchen Supply Chain Issues
1. Is Your Designer In The Know?
Any reputable designer will be well aware of supply chain shortages. If they have good relationships with their suppliers, they will already have received timely information that contains vital stock availability. This data is provided daily, enabling your designer to specify products and appliances that not only suit your design and style but are available too.
Ask your designer about their process for specifying and securing stock.
2. Check Your Storage Options
Independent retailers with warehouse facilities may be able to secure and store your appliances in stock well ahead of your installation date, ensuring that you aren’t left with a kitchen without appliances. At KCA, we have extended our warehousing capacity to secure and store our clients’ furniture and appliances.
3. What’s The Plan B?
Any good company will have steps that they can take to protect their clients from unforeseen shortages, so ask your designer about their plan B. At KCA, we are able to provide temporary appliances to our clients to ensure that they always have a working kitchen, despite unforeseen shortages.
Uncertain times can feel overwhelming, however, by leaning on the specialists around you to help and guide you, you can navigate any obstacles with confidence and make the best of the situation for you and your family.
If you would like to speak with KCA to understand how we can help you to achieve the very best for your project for 2023, call our showroom on 01344 883777 or book a free design consultation.