How to Make the Most of Your Time at kbb Birmingham 2026

The Wildwood team will be back on the show floor at kbb Birmingham, running the show press office – and we can’t wait to be back at the NEC. To help you get the most out of your visit, here’s your essential guide to planning, exploring, and maximising your time at the show. 

1. Plan Ahead With the New kbb Birmingham Event App

Make the kbb experience smoother by downloading the official event app, sponsored by Smeg, before you arrive. It gives you access to: 

• Your digital badge 

• Exhibitor directories 

• Floor plans 

• Product zone 

The app also supports prebooking meetings so you can secure time with brands and suppliers before the show gets busy.  

Pro tip: Bring a portable phone charger – you’ll be using your device a lot throughout the day. 

2. Prioritise Your Must-See Exhibitors

With 320+ leading brands across 25+ product categories, having a clear plan will help you navigate the halls effectively. Expect to see names including: 

• Smeg, Nobilia, Quooker, Samsung, VitrA, Merlyn, Aqualisa, Croydex, Vado, Ca’Pietra, and many more.  

This year’s show places a strong focus on sustainability, smart technology and personalisation, so look out for cutting edge launches and innovative new products. 

3. Explore the Innovation Awards

A highlight every year, the Innovation Awards (in partnership with Blum) celebrate the most groundbreaking products in the sector. 

 
You’ll be able to: 

• View all shortlisted innovations on display 

• Vote in the People’s Choice Award 

• Attend the live announcement of the winners 

This is the perfect opportunity to identify products that will shape the market in the year ahead.  

4. Attend Live Demonstrations and See the Latest Design Trends

Want to see the latest products in action? With exhibitors planning a wide range of demos and product reveals, make time for visiting stands that link to your own business goals – whether that’s design inspiration, sustainability insights or learning about new technology. 

Expect trend forecasting! We’re predicting: 

• Bold colour palettes 

• Tactile materials 

• Integrated smart solutions 

• Eco conscious materials and sustainable practices  

Pro tip – Stay ahead of the curve and gather design insights for current or upcoming projects. 

5. Network With Purpose

kbb Birmingham is a huge gathering of senior decision makers across residential, retail, design, and contract sectors, with over 17,000 visitors expected this year. 

To maximise your networking: 

• Bring business cards or a scannable QR profile 

• Use the new kbb Birmingham app to arrange meetings in advance 

• Follow the event on social media and share with your online community that you’ll be attending 

Pro tip – After the show, organise the contacts you gather and follow up while conversations are still fresh. 

6. Immerse Yourself in Special Features

2026 introduces exciting international exhibitor areas, including the Spanish Design Pavilion highlighting top suppliers exhibiting from Spain. Discover the craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics that define Spanish KBB innovation. Connect with established brands renowned for their quality manufacturing and design excellence across European markets. 

And don’t forget to play the 40th Anniversary Duck Hunt, with 40 rubber ducks hidden throughout the show floor — a fun way to explore every corner of the exhibition.  

7. Plan Your Logistics for a Stress-Free Visit

To keep your day running smoothly: 

• Prepay for NEC parking to save £5 and skip queues  

• Review hotel partners offering discounted rates 

• Explore food and drink options across the NEC  

Wear comfortable shoes – you will cover a lot of ground! 

8. Capture Content and Share Your Experience

Whether you’re attending as a visitor or exhibiting: 

• Take photos and videos of exhibitor stands, demos, new products and design inspiration 

• Share your insights and favourite finds across LinkedIn and Instagram 

• Tag brands and share what you discover 

With its mix of innovation, global exhibitors, industry insights and unbeatable networking, kbb Birmingham 2026 promises to be the most exciting edition yet – and a fitting celebration of 40 years of shaping the KBB industry. 

A little preparation goes a long way. Plan ahead and make the most of every conversation. We’re ready – are you? We’ll see you at the NEC! 

See what we got up to at the previous kbb Birmingham, here.

How to Make the Most of Your Timeat kbb Birmingham 2026