Bathroom wall panel specialist Multipanel is ramping up its presence in Europe with the introduction of 48 new decors across six countries and widening its distribution channels.
The new introductions add to its existing offering in the Netherlands, Belgium, France. Austria and Switzerland and are a key step in the company’s ambitious plans to expand its presence in Europe and beyond.
The move follows what managing director John Mortimer described as a “fantastic year” for Multipanel. He said: “Multipanel has had a fantastic year, even with challenging trading circumstances and an unsettled economy. We have ambitious growth plans for the company, of which expansion into Europe is just one area.”
Mortimer told kbbreview that Multipanel will also be widening its distribution model in Europe to new channels such as timber merchants and DIY stores. It will have its own dedicated sales resource to serve customers and provide product training, as well as its own depot to provide reliable access to stock.
Mortimer added that he is hoping to sign off on a deal by the end of this year to expand into North America, with an anticipated start date of April 2024.
Speaking of Multipanel’s progress in Europe, Mortimer said: “Feedback has been very positive from our European stockists, who particularly like our approach to sustainability and 100% recyclable products. We have further plans in the pipeline for 2024 that will work to support our offering in our existing markets and further afield.”
Multipanel is owned by Grant Westfield and manufactures around 8,000 panels a week at its headquarters in Edinburgh. Grant Westfield itself became part of the Norcros group in May last year. In the year to the end of March 2023, Grant Westfield had a turnover of around £47 million – up by approximately 10% on the previous financial year.
Multipanel’s best-selling collections – Tile Pure, Linda Barker Contemporary and Classic are now available in the Netherlands, Belgium, France. Austria and Switzerland, as well as four new decors in the Smooth Panel range that will be exclusive in these six European countries.