The new online threat

This week we’re tackling one of the oldest frustrations in independent KBB retail - the battle between the physical showroom and online. For years, retailers have had to deal with customers finding products cheaper online after using the showroom for inspiration, advice and reassurance. But has that problem changed? Have selective distribution agreements helped level the playing field? And are bathrooms now facing the same pain kitchens had with appliances a decade ago? Trevor, Steph, Nick and Liz get into the realities of online price comparisons, direct-selling suppliers, DIY Kitchens, Victorian Plumbing, worktops, taps, tiles, flooring and the growing sense that the biggest online threat may no longer just be cheaper products, but the whole project being pulled away from the independent showroom by AI... As consumers increasingly ask ChatGPT, Gemini or Claude where to buy a kitchen or bathroom, how do independents make sure they’re still part of the answer? A sharp, practical and slightly alarming discussion about where online competition really sits in 2026, and where the next battleground might be. Listen to all episodes now Podcast: kbbreview.com/podcast Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-kbbreview-podcast/id1503373854 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/1AlVQabEl38atAytadousb LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kbbreview Instagram: instagram.com/kbbreview Facebook: facebook.com/kbbreviewmagazine