Head of UK Operations at Rotpunkt, Matt Phillips says “We had a very positive experience at the show after two years dominated by market volatility in the wake of Brexit and the pandemic. Now the situation has completely changed course and we have full confidence that UK consumers are keen to invest in their homes once more. In fact, we anticipate significant sales in the residential and the contracts sector as we prepare to enter a new fiscal year with our expanding network of retailers, sales managers and new collaborative climate strategy, Together to Zero, in partnership with MyClimate.org. The UK is a key sales territory for Rotpunkt, second only to Holland, as the company’s main export market. This is definitely evident as the company enjoys its highest average value transactions in the UK, with many consumers appreciating our strategic positioning for growing upper mid-level kitchen design in the marketplace.”
Following four extremely busy days at KBB Birmingham, the Rotpunkt team had a great response to the exciting new launches showcased on its 130 sq.m stand. With four state-of-the-art fully interactive kitchen displays and two laundry storage solutions, KBB professionals could fully explore the iconic ‘power of possibilities’ in eco-luxe furniture by Rotpunkt.
Highlights included the UK launch of new Fenix colours, a new range of Memory RI door fronts, the latest contemporary finishes in Dark Grey Steel and Split-Line in split oak and the British debut of Blum’s Revego pocket door system. Interestingly, Rotpunkt was the first manufacturer to show this game-changing pocket door mechanism in the UK, integrating the solution with its new Fenix Green & Sherwood Flamed wood-effect full height kitchen doors. The unique one-touch door system for single and double door applications is impressive, not least thanks to its fully integrated technology and ease of integration into the kitchen layout or furniture units. The smart fixed-width cabinet solution can also be easily incorporated into plans featuring standard cabinets and is available pre-assembled.
The Fenix Green super matt finish in combination with Sherwood Flamed, was shown on the popular Zerox furniture and benefits include an easy clean surface that is antibacterial, anti-fingerprint, high chemical resistance, high UV resistance with a premium super matt finish. Carcass is available in 78cm and extra-tall 91cm heights, with kitchen doors in standard and extra-tall 2.4m heights featuring luxury interior shelves with metal edging for a refined industrial style.
“We are back and ready to take sustainable kitchen living to the next level. It has been fantastic to see so many customers in person and welcome new dealers to the fold. We have already sent out full, comprehensive details of our new product offerings for 2022-3 and have advised countless retailers about what will be the best fit with their customer base and projected growth plans. Our new brochures include exclusive downloadable content so our UK specialists can use them across devices and locations for ultimate convenience.”
Managing Director Sales and Marketing at Rotpunkt, Sven Herden says “We have flexibly adapted to changing circumstances, including the new trading landscape after Brexit and fine-tuning our operations to ensure a fully cohesive supply chain and supportive dealer network throughout the pandemic. In addition, the field sales team in the UK has continued to grow so that we are actively expanding brand awareness and outlining our point of difference – sustainability, transparency and contemporary ergonomic design for a better future.”
Market confidence is in resurgence as the property season begins and Covid restrictions are all but over. Around 90% of UK retailers have not been able to meet their customers in person over the last two years as the Government focused on protecting public health with a combination of strict lockdowns, including travel restrictions. Naturally, this impacted sales as not everything can be discussed via online channels alone and in response, the company has invested a great deal of time and substantial revenue on additional costs like administration and logistics. This manifested due to Britain’s decision to leave the EU and now, the team benefits from new systems that directly support retailers and end-users, helping them to navigate through unprecedented times. “With an ever-growing network, we are keen to upskill our UK brand partners, especially as we have significantly grown our presence in this territory despite the pandemic. Our UK leadership team stands ready to provide even more dedicated business support as demand for sustainable, modular furniture solutions continues to rise” adds Sven.