In this episode of the Insights Pod, hosts Lisa and Tom welcome guests Jane Blakeborough, Research Manager for BMA, and Jonathan Connolly, Account Manager from Inflect to discuss the upcoming Insights publication set for release in May. The episode covers a range of topics, including the Economic Barometer, which provides a snapshot of the current economic landscape for bathroom manufacturers, highlighting positive trends in sales and housing registrations despite potential global risks such as tariffs and political instability. The conversation shifts to environmental issues, focusing on initiatives aimed at reducing water scarcity through innovative technologies and policies, including the Enabling Water Smart Communities project.

The hosts also delve into the Construction Products Reform Green Paper, emphasising the need for regulatory alignment and the importance of product safety in the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. Additionally, they discuss the government's new Skills England initiative aimed at addressing the construction skills shortage, while expressing skepticism about its long-term effectiveness. The episode concludes with a look at the broader housing crisis and the government's ambitious targets for new home construction, underscoring the complexities and challenges faced by the industry.

In the inaugural episode of the BMA Insights podcast, hosts Tom Reynolds, the Chief Executive of the BMA and Lisa Carnwell, the Policy Manager at the BMA discuss the contents of Insights Edition 11, focusing on key updates from the bathroom manufacturing industry. They cover the economic barometer, highlighting the subdued marketplace and the challenges faced by bathroom manufacturers, while also expressing cautious optimism for future growth. The episode delves into the BMA's efforts to reduce environmental impact, including a discussion surrounding the Windsor Declaration, which addresses water scarcity and antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, they explore the government's Water Special Measures Bill and the implications of the Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging, emphasizing the need for manufacturers to adapt to new regulations. The hosts also touch on the ongoing evolution of the Drinking Water Directive and the importance of maintaining product safety standards in light of the Grenfell inquiry. Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and future directions for the bathroom manufacturing sector.

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