Managing director of Nolte UK & Ireland Chris Rushby explains how franchising is one area of growth for the German furniture manufacturer

Q: What is the story of your stand?

A: Our focus will be unveiling our new launches for 2024. For many of our dealers, this will be their first opportunity to see our new innovations other than samples.

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The stand will be divided into two segments, one showcasing Nolte Neo, and the other telling the story of Nolte and the variety of products we have in the portfolio across different parts of the business.

Q: What are your hero products?

A: Nolte Neo and the new ranges introduced for 2024. Each innovation offers something unique and we’re confident they’ll be a hit amongst our retailers and their customers.

Q: How important are trade shows to your business and what will signify a successful show for you?

A: Very important. We continue to exhibit at a local level in many countries and will also be attending Euro Cucina in Milan in April, which represents a valuable opportunity to showcase our brand at a global level.

For us, success is engaging with as many of our current dealer base as possible, whilst attracting new opportunities to the stand.

Q: What will be the biggest opportunities and what will be the biggest challenges for Nolte this year?

A: We have diversified our market approaches, including exploring franchising as a compelling avenue for growth, so this is a good opportunity to discuss something different with potential partners.

Competition is tough, not only from other German suppliers but also UK providers, and we need to continue to offer the high levels of quality and reliability we have become known for.

Q:  How will you be supporting retailers and what advice can you offer them about trading in the current climate?

A: We’ll have a number of value-added offers on products which will be supported centrally.

Some of these have already been communicated and some will evolve as the year progresses.

Customers purchasing at this level need to feel as though they are getting something different, as well as exceptional quality and service, so these will always be points to differentiate with.