Following the scheme’s UK rollout earlier this year, MHK says it has now welcomed three showrooms to its #kitchenfamily “light franchise” model, launched in collaboration with Bauformat.
Described by MHK as “a first-of-its-kind joint venture” between the buying group and the furniture supplier, the #kitchenfamily model is said to offers retailers with access to products from Bauformat backed by MHK’s commercial strength.
Retailer Concept17 Kitchens, which has showrooms in both Redbrick Mill and Leeds, along with Mirra Kitchens & Interiors, officially joined the retail programme on November 6, at a signing ceremony held in Lohne, Germany.
This makes these three showrooms the first UK retailers to adopt the franchise concept, which is already said to have been very successful across the rest of Europe.
Discussing the idea behind the venture earlier this year, MHK said participating retailers will benefit from a strong brand identity, premium products and excellent infrastructure. MHK also said the concept is perfect for KBB designers and installers who want to open their own showrooms, or entrepreneurs looking to enter the industry from outside.
MHK has insisted the #kitchenfamily model delivers all the advantages of a franchise without actually becoming a franchise, which is why the scheme is referred to as a “light franchise” model. Participating retailers enjoy exclusive purchasing advantages, and a professionally designed and installed showroom concept, while also retaining full autonomy over the suppliers they work with in other product categories, MHK says.
“Becoming part of the #kitchenfamily concept is a major milestone for us,” explained Andrew Hatfield, owner of Concept17 Kitchens. “It allows us to elevate our showroom experience, strengthen our marketing presence, and deliver even more value to our customers.
“We get to feel like we’re part of a franchise, leveraging a brilliant brand name in the industry, all while keeping our independence and not being tied down to exclusively sell one brand. We’re proud to lead the way for MHK UK retail partners and are excited for what’s ahead.”
