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Skilled Labor Fund in 2017 to support their mission of filling the gap in the skilled labor workforce . By establishing and promoting grant opportunities within the SLF with preferences given to programs operating in partnership with local industry associates , and focusing on graduating universitytrained managers , we are directly addressing the nation ’ s labor shortage ,” Bill explains , adding that he also created NKBA ’ s # NextUp initiative , which seeks to support education and build interest in the skilled trades specific to kitchen and bath .
Set ambitious goals
As Bill ’ s journey has proved , the home remodeling industry has demonstrated it is one that is continually changing . Therefore , it is vital that businesses retain their ability to be flexible and innovative to stay ahead of the curve . “ Who could have predicted the massive consumer interest in home remodeling and DIY projects that went into overdrive during the pandemic ? With dining out no longer an option , just as more people were spending time in their kitchens becoming expert chefs in their own right , so too did we see homeowners ’ level up their knowledge and interest in kitchen renovations and bathroom upgrades . Businesses , specifically NKBA members , were very quickly able to double down on creating opportunities for a whole new type of consumer that is more knowledgeable and knows exactly what they want when it comes to products and standards .”
NKBA ’ s recent midyear Kitchen and Bath Market Outlook update indicates a strong long-term vision for residential kitchen and bath remodel spending , despite uncertain short-term economic conditions . “ The
Consumers can expect prices of kitchen and bath products to increase slightly in 2023
most optimistic contributing factor to this expected growth is a current record-high 22.4 million homes in their prime remodeling years ( 20-39 years of age ), and an additional 2.2 million in the next five years ,” says Bill . “ With home equity also hitting an all-time high , combined with repair and remodel projects being deferred beyond 2023 , we are experiencing the perfect storm for significant industry tailwinds .”
Despite the hurdles , Bill hopes to see NKBA continue to expand its worldwide influence , particularly through Global Connect , the omni-directional initiative Bill spearheads to support international manufacturers and distributors interested in entering or expanding within the North American kitchen and bath market . “ Additionally , I want to introduce the global design communities to North American kitchen and bath products .
“ The goal is to bring together domestic and international professionals by helping them make connections to develop effective business strategies for the global kitchen and bath marketplace . Designed to offer international program members the opportunity to learn , network and better understand the North American kitchen and bath sector , the Global Connect Program provides access to NKBA proprietary market research , vetted NKBA Business Advisors , VIP access to NKBA Global Connect events , and much more .”
Stay authentic
Other developments that consumers should anticipate from NKBA in the near future : “ In North America , I ’ d say it ’ s our continued commitment to host KBIS as the premier global kitchen and bath event that grows in its ability to showcase
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