Tradepoint, a global furniture supplier founded in 1997 in Denmark, has steadily grown to become a key player in the global furniture and homeware industry. As the company prepares to showcase its products at the M.O.W. trade fair in Germany, now in a more high-profile location in Hall 12, we had the opportunity to sit down with Morten Laage Stentebjerg, Sales Manager at Tradepoint, to discuss the company's journey, current challenges, and future plans.
From humble beginnings to global presence
Tradepoint's story began 25 years ago in a small office in founder Rene Liocouras Nielsen's home, equipped with just one computer. Today, the company boasts a head office with a 4,900 square metre showroom in Odense, Denmark, and a presence in countries like China, Vietnam, Brazil, and beyond. What started as a business focused on full container purchases for customers has grown into a powerhouse with a turnover of around $200 million. Morten reflects on this remarkable journey: 'It's been quite a big journey. From a small office, we've expanded to a global presence, supporting customers with the best prices through a low-cost business model.'
Navigating market challenges
In today's volatile economic landscape, many businesses are feeling the pinch of supply chain disruptions and economic uncertainty. However, Tradepoint has managed to navigate these challenges with resilience. Morten explains, 'Supply chain issues are nothing new for us—business as usual. Our focus is more on compliance, especially with the new EU regulations. We have a dedicated team that handles compliance documentation and other issues, keeping us ahead of the curve. It's a part of the business we're in, but we're quite ahead of our time on this.'
Despite tough markets, particularly in Germany, Sweden, and Finland, Tradepoint has continued to grow. 'As anyone else, we're experiencing a tough market. Some markets tougher than others. But we've been able to grow and build the business, even though the market has been tough. 2024 will be a good year for Tradepoint,' Morten confidently says.
Trends
A popular trend right now for Tradepoint is the Scandinavian style. This design approach, deeply rooted in the company's heritage, is gaining popularity not just in the DACH region, but also across the Atlantic in Canada. 'We always try to make small adjustments to fit different markets. For example, we've tailored our offerings specifically for the German market at M.O.W. to ensure we remain relevant, both in design and price,' says Morten.
High expectations for M.O.W. Germany
With Tradepoint's relocation to a more prominent spot in Hall 12 at the M.O.W. trade fair, the company is set to make a significant impact. Especially since it will be a permanent stand. This booth will allow Tradepoint to increase its focus in the German-speaking markets, providing a year-round space to host meetings and update assortments. Morten shares their expectations, 'We're looking forward to meeting our existing customers, having meaningful discussions, and showcasing our new developments. We hope to grow our business with key customers and meet new ones who will be relevant for the future.'
What's next for Tradepoint?
Looking ahead, Tradepoint has exciting plans on the horizon. The company is gearing up for imm cologne in January and is excited about the prospects of its new permanent booth at M.O.W. Germany. 'We want to increase awareness outside of fairs. We can bring customers there for meetings during the year and update assortment continuously. We might even look at some outdoor products for the spring,' Morten hints.
Expansion is a key focus for Tradepoint, particularly in the DACH region, but the company remains committed to growth across all its markets. 'We're growing a lot in the Baltics, but our most active regions remain Scandinavia and the DACH region,' Morten concludes.
More information:
Tradepoint
+45 63 10 89 00
[email protected]
www.tradepoint.dk
Denmark