Since opening in October 2006, BK Supplies has grown from serving trade customers with heating packs and contract bathrooms to become one of Peterborough’s most established independent bathroom destinations, proving that understanding your customers and adapting to their needs are among the biggest drivers of long-term success.
For Barry, who has spent an incredible 55 years in the industry, and Kevin, who himself has 26 years of experience, the business has always been built on relationships rather than transactions. The original focus was firmly on supporting the trade, but it quickly became clear there was an opportunity to do more.
“Within our first year, we opened a second premises dedicated to a bathroom showroom,” explains Kevin. “We could see there was a gap in the Peterborough market for quality bathrooms at sensible prices, so expanding felt like a natural progression.”
That decision has shaped the business ever since. Rather than simply displaying products, BK Supplies has created a showroom designed around choice, practicality and affordability.
Inspiring homeowners
Featuring around 50 bathroom displays and products from leading manufacturers, the showroom has been carefully planned to inspire homeowners while giving installers confidence that their customers are receiving knowledgeable, honest advice.
A variety of displays have been selected to cater for a wide range of budgets, ensuring customers can find quality bathroom solutions regardless of the size of their project.
As bathroom trends continue to evolve, Kevin believes successful showrooms need to evolve with them.
“Your showroom has to stay fluid,” he says.“Trends change quickly, so you can’t afford to let displays become tired. We need to be able to refresh displays in days rather than it taking weeks or months.”
Kevin also believes decisions should always be driven by data rather than assumptions.
“Display what customers are actually buying, not just what you think they like. And don’t underestimate the impact of surprising customers with products they can genuinely afford.”
WE COULD SEE THERE WAS A GAP IN THE PETERBOROUGH MARKET FOR QUALITY BATHROOMS AT SENSIBLE PRICES.
– Kevin Matthews, BK Supplies
A customer-first approach
That same customer-first approach extends beyond the displays themselves. Alongside complete bathroom settings, BK Supplies has ensured installers can quickly access everyday essentials, including stocked shower trays, enclosures and vanity units, while a dedicated radiator display offers heating solutions for every room in the home.
“We wanted to create a showroom that works for everyone,” says Kevin. “Whether you’re a homeowner looking for inspiration or a tradesperson who needs products available quickly, we’ve tried to make sure there’s something here for every budget and every type of project.”
This willingness to adapt is matched by a strong belief in building relationships throughout the supply chain.
“Do your research and trust your instincts,” Kevin says.“And build strong relationships with suppliers, because this really is a people industry.”
Becoming part of The IPG
Those relationships have been strengthened further through membership of The IPG.
“Being part of The IPG hasn’t just made us more competitive,” he explains. “It’s given us access to products we simply wouldn’t have reached as an independent business. As an IPG member, you get to sit at the table rather than under it.”
Now, as BK Supplies prepares for the official reopening of its refreshed bathroom showroom this September, the team are looking forward to welcoming new and existing customers through the doors.
Visitors can expect inspiring bathroom displays, products from leading brands and exclusive promotions and special offers to mark the occasion.
After almost two decades in business, BK Supplies continues to demonstrate that success isn’t about standing still. It’s about listening to customers, embracing change and never losing sight of what independent merchants do best: delivering personal service, genuine expertise and value for every customer.