Kitchen Showroom Ltd determined to keep evolving after marking 30 years in business in Sudbury

While training to be a chef, Richard Hibbert was offered a key role at his family’s business.

Determined to pursue ambitious plans, he decided to change his career path to focus on developing the company at Kitchen Showroom Limited (KSL) in Sudbury.

Established in 1989 by Richard’s father, Roger, the business was originally run out of a small retail unit in North Street Parade.

Keen to expand, the company was relocated to a larger premises in Church Field Road, where it specialises in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and interior design.

“When I first joined, I told myself that if I was going to make a career out of it, we were going to have to move,” said Mr Hibbert. “It took about three years to find a site.”

Since taking over as managing director, the 36-year-old has developed an extensive knowledge of the industry through training and research.

“I started at the bottom, where I was on an apprentice wage,” said Mr Hibbert, who has gained inspiration from his father’s own work ethic.

“I grew up with my dad working two to three jobs to make ends meet,” he said.

After leaving the Navy, Mr Hibbert’s father worked in sales, which later inspired him to establish his own business.

Reflecting on the company’s achievements after marking its 30th milestone last year, Mr Hibbert highlighted the importance of remaining motivated in such a competitive market.

“It wasn’t that long ago that we were celebrating our 20th year,” he said. “But you have to keep evolving and, if you stop, you could quite easily be wiped out.”

Following a charity golf and auction event, the business recently donated £3,165 to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (Each), a charity which supports children and young people with life-threatening illnesses.

Determined to succeed outside of work, Mr Hibbert, a father of two young sons, is working towards achieving his coaches badges in order to help out at Cornard Dynamos Youth Football Club.