Interview with Tom Reynolds, CEO of BMA

kbb Birmingham sat down with Tom Reynolds, CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) to talk in detail about his career and in-depth knowledge of the industry, and to discuss the BMA’s focus on supporting their members in the future.

Hi Tom, thank you for taking the time to answer some questions from us. First of all, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Tom Reynolds: I’ve been with the BMA for approaching two years now, taking over from the long-time CEO Yvonne Orgill in October 2019. One of my members likened it to taking over from Alex Ferguson at Man Utd; I think I’ve outlived David Moyes which is a relief. Before joining BMA, I worked at another trade association, and before that in trade media. Outside of work my passions are music, reading and watching rugby. And of course, spending time with my lovely family.

Can you give us some background on the BMA?

TR: We’re the primary trade body for manufacturers of bathroom fixtures and fittings. BMA has got over fifty full members and represent 80% of the market by value. We are about coming together to speak with one voice, and we do that passionately, particularly on issues of product compliance and sustainability. We are a small team in the secretariat, just five of us, but we really work hard to punch above our weight and support the membership. 

What has been the focus for the BMA over the past 6 months?

TR: Like most trade bodies we have been trying to support our members through the unprecedented pandemic and Brexit challenges. We have done that in several ways, not least facilitating regular catchups between members and the Government. We’ve also active in the renewed Construction Leadership Council, and the collaboration and unity that organisation has brought to the sector and its supply chain has been a silver-lining to the COVID cloud.

kbb: How is the BMA supporting bathroom manufacturers over the next 6 months?

TR: On product compliance, we’ll be working with our Trading Standards primary authority partner on a ‘Trusted’ initiative and also helping the industry get to grips with UKCA. On sustainability, we are excited about our #GetLavvySavvy campaign to raise consumers awareness of the simple steps they can take to avoid water wastage through WCs.

kbb: What advice would you give for bathroom manufacturers looking to bounce back once restrictions ease?

TR: Bathroom manufacturers have already bounced back with a strong second half of the year in 2020 and we’re hoping that momentum will carry through into the Spring once bathroom retailers reopen. Despite the uncertainties, I’m really positive that our sector can continue on its growth path. Bank of England data shows there is still a lot of cash out there in many consumers’ bank accounts and as the economy rebuilds, the confidence to spend it will return. Lockdowns have proven the importance of home and I think people will want to invest in their spaces when they can.

kbb: And finally, what are you most looking forward to in 2021?

TR: Seeing friends and family face to face, rather than on the phone. Catching up with colleagues and members without the assistance of Zoom. Having a pint in our local and playing a round of golf. And the Bond film in the Cinema!