Amelia Kittson grew up in the family business she now leads. As KIE Supply’s third-generation president, she’s balancing a 70-year legacy with the responsibility to create opportunities, earn trust, and position the independent company for its next generation.
On this episode of And So It Flows, Plumbing & Mechanical Associate Editor Kristen Bayles is joined by Mike Rizzuto, National Technical Sales West for Infinity Drain, to discuss how changing consumer expectations are reshaping shower and drain design.
Although 93% of Americans say handwashing is important to their overall health, only 76% say they always wash their hands after using a public restroom, and 77% have witnessed someone leave without washing.
Co-founders Jay Hollabaugh and Brenda Cashdollar discuss the company’s growth, hands-on training philosophy, technology investments and commitment to building long-term relationships across the plumbing industry.
Housing affordability has declined significantly in recent years. The deterioration in price-to-income ratio has been a key factor, as home prices have risen 53% since 2019, while median household income has risen only 24%. This has notably decreased the share of first-time home buyers in the market, which dropped to 21% in 2025 from 44% in 1981. Over that same time frame, the median age for first-time buyers reached a record high of 40 in 2025 from 29 in 1981.
On complex healthcare projects, where schedules are tight and teams are balancing multiple design and compliance requirements, drainage will often receive less early attention. However, in patient environments, it’s a critical component that directly affects safety, accessibility, and maintenance.
In the Fifth edition of the Bath & Kitchen Pro eBook you’ll find both residential and commercial product and design trends, showroom display trends, economic indicators and more!