Roolf Living is making significant strides with ambitious plans in both Europe and across the Atlantic. The Belgian company is opening a showroom at Design Post Cologne and targeting the "American Dream" through High Point. At the same time, exciting developments are underway within the parent company, Oostro Carpets, providing ample reason to engage in a conversation with owner Christophe Harinck.
Christophe Harinck, owner of Roolf Living and Oostro Carpets.
European brands
Christophe enthusiastically discusses the decision to open a showroom at Design Post, a choice influenced by a conversation with an exhibitor during the Antwerp Design Week. "Even though it has now been announced that imm cologne 2025 will not take place, the combination of Orgatec and spoga+gafa in the exhibition hall and the showroom still makes it a good choice for us," says Christophe. After visiting spoga+gafa, a large trade fair in Cologne, he was convinced of the added value of Design Post, where 36 renowned brands from 11 countries are currently showcasing their installations. "There is truly a group of beautiful brands," Christophe continues, "and the interaction between various high-quality European labels makes it an attractive formula, both commercially and creatively."
The showroom not only provides a space to present the brand but also serves as a strategic point for collaborations in Germany. With Hanton as a German distributor, Roolf Living can now host customers in the showroom between events, strengthening the continuity of customer relationships. "We have a contract for a year and expect the showroom to be a valuable addition to our activities," says Christophe.
Breaking into the American market
Roolf Living is not only targeting Europe; the American market is also enticing. With the opening of its own distribution centre in the United States earlier this year and participation in the trade fair in Atlanta, the next step is to conquer the High Point Market. This fair, located in North Carolina, is considered one of the largest furniture fairs in the world and serves as an important platform for manufacturers to showcase their latest collections.
Christophe has high expectations for participation in High Point. "We really want to break into the American market," he explains. For the next two editions, Roolf Living will be present in a new building called 313 SPACE, near the exhibition hall. Other well-known brands, such as Libeco, Dedon, and Harbour, will also be represented there. Axelle, Christophe's daughter, will assist with the transition to the American market. Since January, she has officially joined the family business and will attend the High Point Market after her presence at Design Post.
Production shifts to Indonesia
However, Roolf Living is not Christophe's only venture. He is also the owner of Oostro Carpets, a carpet producer. The company has been active since the turn of the century and is known for its innovative designs and high quality. Despite the different markets in which Roolf Living and Oostro Carpets operate, the sister companies share the same DNA. Those who are observant can recognise the 'O' and 'C' of Oostro Carpets in the logo of Roolf, which is a nod to the origins and shared values of both companies.
Due to rising raw material costs, wages, and energy prices, Oostro Carpets has been compelled to implement changes in production. The lower segment is now produced in Indonesia, a strategic move to remain competitive. "In volumes, this represents the largest part of our turnover," Christophe indicates. At the same time, Oostro Carpets has started producing wall-to-wall carpets, which are still manufactured in Oostrozebeke. "There is demand for European-produced carpets in the mid to high segment. With 'made in Belgium,' we can differentiate ourselves."
Those interested in experiencing Roolf Living up close are welcome to view the collection at Design Post in Cologne, where the brand can be found between events. Additionally, during the upcoming High Point Market in North Carolina, visitors can discover the latest designs from Roolf Living in 313 SPACE.
More Information:
Roolf Living
Wantestraat 16
8780 Oostrozebeke, Belgium
+32 (0)56 66 94 61
[email protected]
www.roolf-living.com
Oostro Carpets
[email protected]
www.oostrocarpets.be