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.