kbb Birmingham 2022: ‘Conscious consumerism and wellness is a high priority for homeowners’, says Rotpunkt

Matt Phillips, Head of UK Operations, Rotpunkt

How’s business compared with last year?

Despite the unpredictable market, 2021 was a very strong year for us in terms of sales and product growth, so I would like to thank every retailer in the Rotpunkt family at a time when change became the new normal.

In fact, our sales for 2021 are up on 2020, so we are excited to be able to further increase production at head office by the end of 2024 early 2025, as we continue to make a difference as eco-pioneers and ultimately grow our retail presence and sales force in the UK.

How do you view the health of the UK KBB market?

The UK market is one of our key European markets, which is why we provided targeted business development training for our dealer network during lockdown, so that our retailers could focus on business recovery. There is always room for development as consumers discover new possibilities in eco-luxe design so I think 2022 is looking to be a landmark year for the kitchen living space as designers bring the very best in life-enhancing interior solutions to the modern homeowner.

I predict that the wellness kitchen will go to the next level as a welcoming, gender neutral and supportive space that is designed to offer everything to everyone – in a true democracy of contemporary style, visually pleasing form and ergonomic functionality. In my opinion, the very best sustainable kitchens on the market will be designed to elevate lifestyles so that users can enjoy a premium experience at home, which fully caters to all the practical necessities including utility areas, high volume storage, flexible working and dining spaces, as well as room for entertaining.

Conscious consumerism is a high priority for homeowners seeking to make a difference for future generations in the light of climate change and our fragile planet, so anticipating ‘the power of the purchase’ is crucial with big ticket items like the fitted kitchen. In my opinion, this area will be key to boosting the KBB market, so that sustainable solutions penetrate the supply chain for mutual benefit. Premium manufacturers are extending the possibilities of using and reusing renewable timber so that kitchen components can be as environmentally friendly as possible without compromising on opulent finishes such as faux marble and richly grained veneers for the ultimate in deluxe sustainable design.

How do you think the relationship between supplier and retailer is changing?

My feeling is that partnerships are getting ever stronger with better communication being shared on how we can grow together. Therefore, alongside new cherry-picked contemporary colours, finishes and furniture, we stand ready to offer whatever training and development is required.

We have the flexibility and freedom to create bespoke packages via Zoom to deliver sales training and in-depth product knowledge as well as tailored one to one support to meet the needs of our retailers. We are absolutely dedicated to helping each other to succeed.  For example, we have invested heavily into our supply chain and manufacturing plant in the run-up to our 100-year anniversary in 2030 and will continue to do so.

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