With Mira Showers’ research revealing the growing pressures facing UK installers, with many reporting that work commitments are affecting their personal lives, wellbeing and ability to switch off, the shower company is looking at ways to support.
Findings from Mira's latest Pulse research, which surveyed 250 UK shower installers, plumbers and bathroom fitters, shows that 35% of installers say work pressures prevent them from spending quality time with family, while a third say they struggle to take regular breaks or holidays. Chasing payments, managing customers and long working hours are also highlighted among the biggest causes of stress.
The findings also reveal that 21% of installers are looking to manufacturers for networking opportunities, positioning 2026’s InstallerSHOW as the perfect opportunity for Mira to bring installers together. Mira’s engagement with installers at the show suggests that experienced tradespeople are finding practical ways to navigate challenges, sharing hard-earned advice on everything from improving efficiency on-site, to maintaining a healthier work-life balance.
Mira’s research found that installers are looking for greater support from manufacturers beyond products, and networking opportunities. Almost half (46%) said training and product upskilling would help ease pressures on their businesses, while 32% highlighted support with regulations and compliance and 25% called for help generating leads.
To explore these issues further, Mira invited visitors to its InstallerSHOW stand to share the lessons they wished they knew when starting out, tips that have made their work easier, and the habits that help them switch off from the demands of the job.
Among the responses, several clear themes emerged:
Never stop learning
Many installers highlighted the importance of ongoing training and seeking advice from experienced professionals.
"Always do your own research, and attend as many training courses as possible.”
"Listen to your mentors and get trained early!"
"Take time to study the install. Use YouTube, it saves time.”
Work smarter, not harder
Others stressed the importance of planning, preparation and attention to detail.
"Write everything down so your brain isn't overloaded with information."
"Measure twice, cut once."
"Make sure you do thorough checks after completing your work to prevent further problems."
"Always let the customer put stuff back under the sink.”
Protect your wellbeing
Perhaps most notably, many installers pointed to the importance of creating time away from work and maintaining perspective.
"Work-life balance is the key to happiness. Remember to take time for yourself."
"Family time, a long walk and a pint!"
"Being in nature."
"Always have a 'play' mindset, then you're always having fun!”
In response to the collective advice, Megan Cox-Chanin, Senior Channel Manager at Mira Showers, said:
"The conversations we're having with installers today extend far beyond products. While performance and reliability remain crucial, we're hearing more about the realities of running a business, managing workloads, and finding time away from work.
"What's encouraging is that installers are also willing to share their experiences and support one another. The advice we collected at InstallerSHOW reflects the value of continuous learning, good habits, and maintaining balance. Combined with our latest research, it paints a picture of a trade that is facing challenges but is also full of practical knowledge, resilience, and a willingness to help others succeed. At Mira, we truly recognise the role of community, and we’re really proud that 40% of the installers we surveyed recognised us as the brand that supports the installer community the most.”
The findings reinforce the important role manufacturers can play in supporting installers through training, education, technical guidance and wider business support, such as the content available through Mira Showers’ dedicated platform, InstallerPRO.
Mira is an Industrial Associate of CIPHE, to see the full list of associates check out the CIPHE industrial associates directory