The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has announced that Alex Depledge, renowned tech entrepreneur and CEO of Resi.co.uk, and Anna Leach, Deputy Chief Economist at the CBI, will be the keynote speakers at the BMA’s Connect Conference 2025.
The BMA Connect Conference brings together professionals, innovators, and business leaders to exchange insights, build connections, and explore the sector’s future. This year’s theme, ‘Connect the Dots’, will focus on fostering collaboration across manufacturers, supply chains, retailers, and merchants to drive innovation and sustainable growth.
Alex Depledge is a serial entrepreneur, thought leader, and advocate for business innovation. As the founder and CEO of Resi.co.uk, the UK’s largest residential architectural practice, she has transformed the home renovation sector by making architecture more accessible to homeowners. Prior to Resi, she founded Hassle.com, Europe’s largest domestic cleaning marketplace, which she grew to an £8 million turnover before its sale for €32 million.
Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Alex is a respected TV and radio commentator and serves on the board of Persimmon Homes. She has received numerous accolades, including the Emerging Technology Scale-up Award (2022), the Barclays Entrepreneur Award (2020), and an MBE for services to the Sharing Economy in 2016.
In her keynote address, Alex Depledge will tackle one of the most pressing challenges in today’s business world: cutting through complexity to focus on what truly matters. In an era where digital overload, DEI initiatives, and evolving workplace demands can feel overwhelming, Alex will share practical insights on building workplaces that empower employees, foster strong leadership, and prioritise real impact over superficial initiatives.
Anna Leach, Deputy Chief Economist at the CBI, heads the CBI’s Economic Intelligence team, which covers macroeconomic forecasting, analysis, business surveys, and consulting services through CBI Economics. With a deep background in economic policy and business forecasting, Anna has worked at the CBI since 2008, previously leading public finance analysis, economic assessments, and industry surveys.
Before joining the CBI, Anna held various roles in the Government Economic Service (GES), working at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Treasury. She has both an MSc and a BSc in Economics from the University of Warwick.
At the Connect Conference 2025, she will provide invaluable economic insights, helping industry professionals navigate shifting market trends, regulatory changes, and economic uncertainties affecting the bathroom manufacturing sector.
BMA Connect Conference 2025: what to expect
This event will feature BMA member-focused meetings on 16 September, followed by an industry-wide conference on 17 September, including:
- Keynote presentations from industry experts and business leaders.
- Panel discussions exploring best practices and industry challenges.
- Networking opportunities to connect with professionals across the sector.
- Special celebrations, including the Thirty-under-Thirty Awards and the Sustainability Award.
- Gala Dinner & Charity Auction.
With demand growing each year, spaces for the BMA Connect Conference 2025 are limited. To secure your place, register now on the Connect Conference website.
