Unlocking the value of KBB expertise: Recruitment insights for the Irish hardware sector

Over the past year, we’ve seen a growing trend among our Hardware sector clients seeking to hire Sales and Design Specialists with expertise in Kitchen, Bedroom, and Bathroom (KBB) design. Many hardware retailers are expanding their product offerings to include specialist kitchen and bathroom solutions, often investing significantly in their stores to create a more comprehensive retail experience.

These developments have led to some excellent conversations with our clients about the value of bringing in professionals from the KBB industry. Their expertise can play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of these new retail spaces, helping retailers achieve their goals and deliver a more tailored, high-quality experience to their customers.

What Sets KBB Roles Apart?
KBB roles require a unique mix of technical knowledge, creativity, and customer-focused expertise, setting them apart from general retail positions. Key attributes include:

• Technical Knowledge: Understanding design, product specs, and installation, like bespoke bathroom layouts.
• Sales Expertise: Building trust and tailoring solutions to sell high-value items.
• Trend Awareness: Staying current with design trends, materials, and technologies.
• Customer Relationships: Fostering long-term connections during extended sales cycles.

This skill set enhances customer satisfaction, drives repeat business, and generates referrals, making KBB professionals vital to Hardware Stores.

Case Study: Tactical Talent’s Strategic Guidance for a Hardware Retailer’s KBB Expansion
Client Overview
A long-standing Hardware Retailer sought to diversify by creating a dedicated Bathroom section. They invested heavily in a modern retail fit-out to attract a design-focused customer and elevate their presence in the competitive KBB market.

The Challenge
Despite substantial investment in the fit-out, the client planned to staff the new area with an existing employee who lacked KBB experience. The assumption was that the employee could learn on the job, saving costs. Tactical Talent identified the risk of missing out on the potential returns of the new venture without the right expertise in place.

The Tactical Talent Solution
Tactical Talent recommended hiring an experienced KBB Sales and Design Consultant to maximise the investment.

The selected candidate brought:

• Strategic Vision: Used a strong understanding of KBB design and customer preferences to fine-tune the product range, store layout, and overall strategy for better results.
• Tech Expertise: Introduced cutting-edge design software to create professional, detailed proposals that impressed customers and made decisions easier.
• Staff Training: Gave the team practical KBB training, ensuring they could confidently support the department and its customers.
• Industry Network: Built solid relationships with trusted suppliers and fitters, making procurement and installations smoother and more reliable.

Results

The decision to invest in an experienced professional led to significant results:

• Increased Sales: The new Bathroom section outperformed expectations within six months, driving notable revenue growth.
• Enhanced Customer Experience: Customers appreciated the personalised service and expert advice, leading to higher conversions and repeat business.
• Operational Efficiency: Strong industry connections streamlined procurement and project execution, reducing lead times and boosting satisfaction.

Tips for Attracting KBB Professionals
To attract and retain top KBB talent, Hardware Retailers must position themselves as desirable employers. Here’s how:

1. Offer Competitive Compensation: Benchmark salaries and provide performance-based incentives. Flexible working arrangements or bonuses for meeting sales targets can also enhance your appeal. Commission structures are a really crucial element to any remuneration package designed to attract KBB candidates, and we can advise you on industry standards.
2. Invest in Technology: Provide cutting-edge tools like 4D bathroom design software such as Virtual Worlds to improve efficiency and attract professionals who value innovation.
3. Provide Training and Development: Invest in professional development, such as design software training.
4. Highlight Career Growth Opportunities: Showcase clear advancement paths, such as leading a department or training junior staff, to attract ambitious talent.

Tactical Talent are Industry Specialists in Hardware, KBB, and Heating & Plumbing Recruitment. We have over a decade of experience in recruiting KBB professionals in Ireland. With a deep understanding of the industry and its varied skillsets, we’re well-placed to connect candidates and companies in this specialist sector.

Contact Vinny Kelly or Iseult McLaughlin on 01 9079192 or visit www.tacticaltalent.ie