Bathroom manufacturers are increasingly warning that workforce challenges have reached a critical level. In response, the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has launched several initiatives to address the growing issue of recruitment and retention within the industry.
In late 2024, the BMA convened a roundtable to explore the recruitment difficulties faced by the sector. Recognising the fierce competition for skilled professionals, the association is equipping its members with tools and partnerships to attract, develop, and retain talent. A key focus is creating pathways for long-term investment in employees, fostering both career growth and organisational stability.
The BMA recently expanded its efforts by forming partnerships with three prominent recruitment firms: SOS Executive Search Ltd, Wilson Brook Consulting Ltd, and Designer Recruitment. These collaborations aim to strengthen talent acquisition and development within the bathroom manufacturing industry.
Sean O'Sullivan, Managing Director of SOS Executive Search, brings over two decades of expertise in recruitment for sectors such as building products, sales, and C-suite roles. He stated that partnering with the BMA provides a platform to support members in securing the executive talent critical to their future success.
Neil Holloway, Founder and Managing Director of Wilson Brook Consulting, highlighted the industry's untapped potential. He emphasised that the collaboration with the BMA aims to match skilled professionals with roles that align with their ambitions, fostering growth for both individuals and the sector.
Designer Recruitment, led by Managing Director Ben Paine, is a leader in sourcing talent for the kitchen, bathroom, and building materials industries. Paine noted the importance of retention alongside attraction, stressing that career progression and employee satisfaction are pivotal in creating workplaces where people aspire to grow and remain.
Beyond recruitment, the BMA is spearheading initiatives to cultivate and celebrate talent within the sector. In 2024, it introduced the Thirty-Under-Thirty Awards to recognise outstanding young professionals who are driving innovation and growth in the industry. These awards underscore the passion and dedication of the next generation of leaders in bathroom manufacturing.
The association also continues to promote workforce development through its Bathroom Building Blocks programme, launched in collaboration with the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF). This comprehensive training scheme is tailored for apprentices, new entrants, and those seeking to refresh their knowledge. It equips participants with the skills necessary to excel in the industry, ensuring a well-rounded foundation for future success.
The BMA is further broadening its talent pool through its involvement in the Construction Inclusion Coalition. This initiative promotes diversity and inclusivity, aiming to make the construction and bathroom manufacturing sectors accessible and appealing to individuals from all backgrounds.
Tom Reynolds, Chief Executive of the BMA, affirmed the importance of these efforts. He stated that attracting and retaining top talent is fundamental to the sector's long-term success. By working with expert recruiters and implementing programmes like the Thirty-Under-Thirty Awards, the BMA is fostering a culture that prioritises growth and development. Reynolds emphasised that investing in people is not merely a strategy, but a necessity for building stronger organisations and a resilient industry.
With its multifaceted approach to addressing workforce challenges, the BMA is positioning itself as a driving force in shaping a thriving and sustainable future for bathroom manufacturing.
More information:
Bathroom Manufacturers Association
[email protected]
bathroom-association.org.uk