Uform’s Richard Gates Talks Storage, Service and Stronger Offerings with BKU

Uform’s Head of Category Management, Richard Gates, recently spoke with BKU’s Matt Broughton about the company’s performance through a challenging market and how innovation, service and storage are shaping a stronger offer for 2026.

Despite wider pressures across the kitchen sector in 2025, Richard explains that it was a standout year for Uform, driven by customer growth and product innovation performing ahead of forecast. New introductions such as Pembridge and Newcombe have strengthened the foil Shaker collection, supported by the well‑received 5‑piece foil made‑to‑order service, while the launch of Aylesford has advanced Uform’s timber proposition with strong early reaction. Beyond kitchens, bedroom frontals and the rapidly growing Vauth‑Sagel storage category continued to outperform, reflecting retailers’ focus on practical, value‑adding upgrades.

Looking ahead, Richard says 2026 will be anchored by two core principles: innovation and exceptional service. With expanded developments planned across storage, bins, lighting and complementary categories, alongside new and refreshed door families, Uform aims to give independents greater choice, dependable quality and a service experience they can trust.

Key insights from Richard include:

– Strong product performance despite a challenging market
– Continued investment in foil, timber and made‑to‑order ranges
– Growing demand for smarter storage and hybrid living solutions
– The strategic role of Vauth‑Sagel in supporting retailer sales
– Sustainability-focused manufacturing and long-term investment

Richard’s message for the year ahead is consistent and confident: by focusing on innovation, service and partnership, Uform is committed to helping independent retailers win more business as the market moves into a period of steady recovery.

Read the full interview with BKU to discover how storage, service and innovation are shaping Uform’s offering for 2026.