Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
The Independent Kitchen Retailer Report 2026, a new research report commissioned by kitchen and appliance distributor, LDD UK, and conducted by Censuswide, has revealed 46% of independent retailers reported a decline in sales over the past 12 months.
According to the report; which surveyed independent kitchen retailers across Greater London, the North West, North East, Yorkshire and the Humber and Scotland, 46% of the 250 business decision makers reported falling sales in the past year, with almost half of businesses surveyed saying trading conditions were tougher than in 2020. Younger businesses surveyed (3–5 years old) were the most impacted, with 51% reporting lower sales.
Despite the difficult landscape, the report found that some businesses, particularly those with strong customer relationships or a clear regional focus, are bucking the trend and continuing to grow, and that 1 in 3 businesses still managed to grow despite headwinds. 54% of respondents expressed confidence in their business prospects for the next year
Founder and managing director of LDD UK, Arthur B. Leaker, commented: “The findings of the research are a reminder of how challenging it is for independent kitchen retailers at the moment. Agility, customer connection, and local insight remain vital ingredients for success. It’s not all doom and gloom thankfully, and we’re encouraged by the ways in which independents are adapting, as well as the positive outlook many decision-makers have for the future of their businesses.”
“What we’re seeing is how the best differentiate themselves, and their cautious confidence suggests that independent kitchen retailers are embracing the challenge. Adaptability is key during difficult trading periods and the advice the report uncovered was that those who put emphasis on their relationships, with suppliers, distributors and customers, are best placed for future success.”
