As an all-industry association, NKBA is truly a unique voice for the kitchen and bath industry. We continue to forge relationships with international businesses, associations and organizations in an effort to create a globally connected kitchen and bath community, which we feel is the key to the future and success of our industries. 

The NKBA’s Global Connect program is dedicated to this pursuit. It takes a multi-pronged approach to inform, inspire and empower the international design community, reaching individuals and businesses.  By becoming an NKBA Global Connect member you gain access to insights, experts, networking events, and seminars designed to help make smart decisions.

NKBA Global Connect Pavilion returns to KBIS 2023

Building on the success of the NKBA Global Connect pavilion at KBIS 2022, the NKBA continues to grow its pavilion concept designated for NKBA Global Connect members who have never exhibited at KBIS and do not have a distribution presence in North America. Participants can set up meetings and present products/programs in a small, self-contained, fully promoted area.  

Early feedback with international KBIS sales agents showed a strong need for international brands to come to KBIS and toe-dip into the US market through the Global Connect pavilion before committing to a standalone exhibit strategy. 

This 140 square meters Pavilion, managed by NKBA Global Connect, offers up to 8 international manufacturers’ turn-key kiosks to introduce and demonstrate their products. Additionally, there will be a stage and lounge area hosting various programs discussing “go-to-market strategies”, profiling of interior and kitchen and bath designers, the current North American Market Outlook, and feature brand presentations from kiosk participants and other exhibiting Global Connect members. Programming will take place each day inside the pavilion and will be included as part of the total exhibitor package, encouraging attendee engagement. 

“The North American market continues to offer tremendous promise to international brands who bring new ideas and technologies to the kitchen and bath marketplace,” said Suzie Williford, EVP, Chief Strategy Officer, NKBA. “We look forward to a long and productive relationship with individual brands and their respective associations, organizations and government agencies.”

KBIS and the Global Connect Pavilion are your paths to valuable connections in the North American kitchen and bath industry.  Use this opportunity for your brand and meet with potential buyers and distributors. For more information, contact globalconnect@nkba.org.

NKBA Global Connect Delegation Program 

The Delegation Program remains a popular option for first-time visitors and more experienced KBIS visitors alike. By joining the program, international visitors receive VIP access to the most important events at KBIS including: 

  • Reserved seating at the NKBA Opening Night and Awards Gala
  • Reserved seating at the Opening Ceremonies and the State of the Industry Address 
  • Admission to The NKBA Global Connect International Cocktail Reception
  • Admission to the NKBA Global Connect Farewell Luncheon
  • Admission to networking events and round table discussions at the NKBA Global Connect pavilions

All of these events, along with a curated program guide that helps new-to-KBIS visitors navigate the show offer an opportunity to network with buyers, distributors, NKBA Global Connect Advisors, the KBIS and NKBA executive teams, and other international delegates.

“The Global Connect Delegation Program connects international visitors with the largest North American Kitchen & Bath event,” shared Williford. “By participating, visitors are able to connect and learn about the market, opportunities for business development, and insights regarding product development and positioning in the K&B industry. It’s also a great opportunity to establish relationships with the most important industry players, and the international design community.”

Global Connect Membership Program

The Global Connect Membership Program is a powerful tool to give you access and insights into one of the largest and most vibrant kitchens and bath marketplaces in the world. Leveraging all of the research, advice, and communications platforms will assist your brand in making a mark that is thoughtfully presented and meaningful.

As a GC member you will receive:

  • NKBA Market Research
  • NKBA Member Welcome Package
  • Industry Insights
  • Industry Advisors
  • Events & Conferences
  • NKBA Member pricing at KBIS

Learn more about the Global Connect Program here.  For additional information, contact globalconnect@nkba.org.