Greetings from KBDi

Comment from Alex Milne – KBDi Executive Director
As another successful year for KBDi draws to a close, we can look back with some satisfaction at the many successful events and activities we’ve held, including the first Certified Designers’ Forum, sitting alongside the conference and awards gala.  The KBDi awards program this year attracted the biggest number of entries ever and continues to grow in excellence as designers work hard to succeed in all categories. The Designers’ International Tour was again a great success, and the 2014 tour has sold out in record time as the tours grow in popularity. Planning has already commenced for the 2015 tour. Chapter events this year were more varied than ever:  more of our own members stepped up to make professional development presentations, and our sponsors presented a wider range of product information.

I sense a greater optimism from our members and the industry generally than I have for some years, even though it is obvious the rationalisation of manufacturing continues, with the continued threat from overseas imports and the two major national hardware chains decimating local industry. Competition is acceptable when conducted on a level playing field. Unfortunately these products often do not meet the Australian standards which results in the health and safety of the consumer being compromised. Worse still, historically governments have shown no interest in ensuring that product offerings to Australians meet the Australian standards.

It is satisfying to see Australian Standard 4386 (which covers domestic built-in cabinetry) finally being revised or—to be more accurate—renewed, with comprehensive changes that are being undertaken by a committee made up of interested industry associations.

KBDi’s core focus remains on promoting training, providing professional development to practising designers, the accreditation of suitably qualified and experienced kitchen and bathroom designers, and increasingly promoting good design and KBDi members to the consumer.

I wish you have a very happy Christmas and a rewarding 2014.

Alex Milne

Executive Director

Kitchen and Bathroom Design Institute (KBDi)
Website: kbdi.org.au
Phone: 1300 CKD CBD  (1300 253 223)

 

 

 

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