Recently we spoke with Kris Samoy, KUKA's representative for the Benelux, about the brand's recent experience at Furniture China in Shanghai and their plans for the upcoming Brussels Furniture Fair. Amid the bustling 1,500-square-meter stand in Shanghai, KUKA showcased its commitment to innovation, winning a gold award for a new high-tech model. Kris also introduced Comfy Casa, KUKA's new brand created to meet evolving customer needs for flexibility and customisation. Looking ahead, KUKA has big hopes for Brussels and aims to strengthen its growing presence in the Benelux market.
Award-winning model at Furniture China.
You recently attended the Furniture China fair in Shanghai. How was it?
'It was incredibly busy at the KUKA stand, as usual. There were about 1,500 square metres spread across two floors. And it was extremely warm—up to 35°! KUKA also won a gold medal for a beautifully presented model, with rotating elements, an electric recline feature, and a very special, luxurious fabric. It's a bit of a unique piece, but it really shows KUKA's commitment to innovation. The R&D division isn't just a department but practically a factory with around 125 people, developing roughly 500 new products each year.'
There, KUKA also launched the Comfy Casa brand. Can you tell us more about that?
'It was really more of a "soft launch," we started the concept, but the collection is still growing. The idea originated in the Benelux, with the goal of offering more flexibility, including more options for seating comfort, elements, leg variations, and personalised orders. KUKA is a "mass manufacturer," and this collection will require a bit more flexibility in their production. The models of Comfy Casa are also developed by European designers. The first models of Comfy Casa will debut in Brussels.'
Now Brussels is on the agenda. What are your expectations for the fair?
'We don't have any specific expectations. We're just hoping to get positive feedback from our customers about the new collections. We want our customers to feel comfortable at our stand and for us to end the fair with a solid sales result. I wish the same for all our colleagues as well.
We're bringing a broad range of products, from motion sofas—both casual/comfort and modern/contemporary styles—to pieces with organic shapes and sleeker designs, enhanced with new upholstery options.
All that remains to say is come and see us! KUKA has now grown into a stable player in the Benelux with plenty of potential. It's a shame imm cologne won't be happening next year. Furniture fairs are "the place to be" when it comes to connecting everyone involved in interior design.'
The KUKA-team at imm cologne in January, with on the left Kris Samoy.
Visit KUKA at Brussels Furniture Fair at stand 3-104 from November 3-6, 2024.
More information:
KUKA
www.kukahome.com.hk
Kris Samoy
[email protected]