Tableware International March April 2024

Made to love made to last Month:

Jarra com Lagostas [Vase with Lobsters], Piece of the Year 2024, celebrates Bordallo Pinheiro’s 140th anniversary.

25 INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARDS RECEIVED IN 2023

GERMAN DESIGN AWARD

GOLD

Art.Made - Hotelware

GERMAN DESIGN AWARD

WINNER

Minos - The Meaning

Winter Garden - The Meaning

GERMAN DESIGN AWARD SPECIAL MENTION

The Meaning

Still life - The Meaning

LOOP DESIGN AWARDS

WINNER

Home Cosmetics

The Meaning

Textiles

ARCHITECTURE MASTERPRIZE

HONORABLE MENTION

Minos - The Meaning

Still life - The Meaning

GRAND PRIX DU DESIGN

OR Home Cosmetics

GRAND PRIX DU DESIGN

ARGENT

Dinastia Magno

MUSE DESIGN AWARDS

GOLD

Pomum - The Meaning

MUSE DESIGN AWARDS

SILVER

Winter Garden - The Meaning

EUROPEAN DESIGN AWARD

WINNER

Home Cosmetics

Art.Made - Hotelware

RED DOT DESIGN AWARD

Art.Made - Hotelware

ICONIC AWARDS INNOVATIVE INTERIOR WINNER

Circle

Futurismo

Ritmo

TABLEWARE INTERNATIONAL AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

WINNER

Futurismo

IDA DESIGN AWARDS HONORABLE MENTION

Dinastia Magno

Circle

Home Cosmetics

IDA DESIGN AWARDS

WINNER

Futurismo

With an insatiable craving for colorful creation, Bjørn Wiinblad’s magical, hand-painted motifs are extraordinar y down to the smallest intricacies.

Interested in becoming a wholesaler?

Tableware Team

EDITOR

MAIREAD WILMOT mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk

PUBLISHER

PAUL YEOMANS pyeomans@lemapublishing.co.uk

MANAGING DIRECTOR MARK NAISH mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

CHAIRMAN MALCOLM NAISH malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR PAUL NAISH paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

The March/April issue of Tableware International always heralds the beginning of spring. We are hurtling towards warmer summer months and the mid-point of the year despite, perhaps, feeling like we’ve just closed the doors on Ambiente. Interestingly, the mood coming out of Ambiente regarding the year ahead was generally positive – cautiously positive, but positive, nonetheless.

Our Ambiente review starts on page 68 with an interview with Thomas Kastl, the show’s director of dining. Thomas very much has his finger on the pulse of the industry and says Ambiente, once more, cemented its position as the most relevant business platform for the non-food sector. If you move onto page 70, we run a six-page review of Ambiente and speak to leading industry figures such as Mariana Boatto, sales & marketing director, Wilmax, as well as Eduard Bakker, Amefa’s managing director, Leona Lek, global head of sales & product development at Luzerne, and Francisco Braga, CEO at Mesa Ceramics as well as figures from Sambonet, Rosenthal and Porcel to name a few who all give us their opinion on the show.

“made to love, made to last”.

To me, this feels like a change of pace for Portmeirion, but a welcome one. Aesthetically, I don’t think they offer anything else quite like Minerals in their range (of course, I am open to be corrected).

Portmeirion describe the collection as being “consciously designed” and say “recycled clay is once fired and finished with a reactive glaze, making every piece unique”. It also comes in four different colourways which are really lovely for the new season – moonstone, rose quartz, aquamarine, and amethyst.

Moving on, one of the things that really fascinates me about the tableware industry is how it marries together so many different sectors – creative, manufacturing, logistics, retail, hospitality – but all too often, the creative gets forgotten.

Another one not afraid to speak their mind is Valda Goodfellow. In this issue, our columnist laments the lack of perceived choice in the industry, she argues there is too much of the same on offer, despite a few notable exceptions. Turn to page 114 to read Valda’s work and let us know if you agree – is there enough diversity in design? Are buyers being offered enough choice? Email maireadwilmot@lemapublishing.co.uk and lets get the conversation started.

A word for our cover stars this month, Portmeirion, who showcase their new stoneware collection –Minerals – which they say has been

For this issue, we’ve introduced a new feature looking at some of the tabletop industry’s great designers from years gone by. Not being an expert in these matters, I’ve asked several people who know a lot more than I (Robin Levien and David Queensberry, namely) to suggest some fantastic designers whose work deserves a mention.

We start our new series with Dr Hermann Gretsch on page 64.

Finally, we must not forget the Tableware International Awards of Excellence which was held during Ambiente. Starting on page 70 we recognise our 15 winners including our lifetime achievement award winner and our designer of the year. Of course, there are lots of pictures from the event too! We hope you enjoy.

Mairead Wilmot

Front cover supplied by

Denby powers up new solar array

Denby Pottery’s new solar array was switched on recently in what is a key step in the company’s journey to net zero by 2050. The 2.1 MW solar array has been delivered in partnership with onsite energy generation specialists, YLEM Energy, and will see the tableware manufacturer reduce its CO2 emissions by 475 tonnes each year. Building on the success of its solar array, Denby has announced preliminary plans to construct a new solar PV car port at the Denby Pottery Visitor Centre car park to extend its electricity generation capacity and further reduce its carbon footprint.

Over 250,000 people visit Denby each year to watch their craftspeople use skills finessed over 200 years of pottery-making. Denby’s drive towards net zero using various technologies will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the site.

Operations director at Denby Pottery, Dean Barlow says: “We are very pleased that our new solar array is now online, and plan to extend our solar electricity generation facilities in the near future to further enhance our commitment to sustainability and continued carbon reduction."

A fond farewell to Arzberg

Rosenthal has merged the Arzberg brand under the Rosenthal and Thomas labels. The company says it has simplified its brand structure by incorporating Arzberg’s Cucina and Tric forms into the Thomas brand, while 1382 and Joyn will be marketed under the Rosenthal label.

Founded in 1887, the traditional German brand has been part of Rosenthal GmbH since 2013 and has brought multiple awardwinning forms to the market over the decades.

By integrating the collections into the Rosenthal and Thomas ranges, Rosenthal aims to give the four popular Arzberg shapes even more internationality and visibility in future. “The aim of the new brand structure is to achieve more growth and broader distribution for these beautiful series and to make them more international,” says Rosenthal’s CEO Lotte Franch. “Nothing will change in terms of the high quality and outstanding design of these products, which stand for aesthetics, functionality and durability. The article structure will also remain the same. The moulds will simply be given a new bottom stamp.”

Giovanni Coppo

announced as CEO of Sambonet Paderno Industrie

Giovanni Coppo was recently appointed CEO of Sambonet Paderno Industrie SpA by the company’s Board of Directors, succeeding his uncle, Eng. Franco Fiorenzo Coppo, who served as CEO from 2009 to 2023. The outgoing CEO will retain nonexclusive responsibilities in research and development, supporting broad-ranging projects and technologies for the company.

“We represent prestigious brands, and this company is also a benchmark for the Italian industrial fabric, recognised for the quality and impeccable style of its products. This is the result of a

unique know-how and ingenuity that has its roots between Milan and Vercelli since the 1800s,” says Giovanni Coppo. “Thanks to the teams’ support and experience, valuable commercial partnerships, and the entire network of stakeholders, our brands look to the future with renewed determination. We face new horizons and audiences while working with constant commitment to the growth of this great company. Inspired by our past and motivated by a promising future, which we have already begun to write,” he concludes.

Let’s learn more about… Sargadelos

Sargadelos, founded in 1806 in Galicia, is a company boasting a standout product range, knows for the artisanal care with which each of its pieces are manufactured.

The company’s porcelain tableware, figures and jewellry are decorated and finished by hand. Care and sustainability forms a key part of the company’s ethos, from the design phase to packaging, distribution and store displays. The company develops tailor-made products for clients and is looking to develop its global customer base. Visit www.sargadelos.com or email internacionalventas@sargadelos.com.

Steve Bingham, Ylem with Nigel Mills MP, and Denby's Dean Barlow

Giving cutlery a second life

WMF Professional and HEPP has launched a sustainability programme designed to breathe new life into old cutlery.

The new concept – Second Life – gives second-hand cutlery, returns and discontinued products a new chance – in the spirit of a sustainable circular economy. By opting for Second Life cutlery, restaurants benefit from the wide variety of collections from WMF Professional and HEPP.

The stonewashed menu items, coffee spoons and cake forks are mixed across the collection, emphasising the Second Life vintage character. To ensure the cutlery is enjoyed for many years to come, the table knives are sharpened during reconditioning and as a finishing touch, they are laser engraved with "Second Life" lettering.

Confetti Glass Vase

Artisan Blown | Handcrafted | Vibrant Design

Featuring a bright and vibrant design, the Confetti Glass Vase is a unique piece handcrafted by glass artisans using ancient techniques.

Each vase is one-of-a-kind with slight color variations, making it a special addition to your home decor.

Tableware International hosts industry talk at The Inspired Home Show

Tableware International hosted a talk at the recent Inspired Home Show which focused on how the tabletop sector is performing. Tableware International’s Paul Yeomans was joined on stage by Laurie Burns, Burns Consulting, and Martha Nading, The Extra Ingredient, for the 50-minute talk entitled Tableware 2024: Where is the Business Going?.

This session explored what is happening in the tableware industry – who the leaders are, where and how it is being sold and what the shifts and opportunities are for suppliers. On the retail side, discussions included how retailers are buying product, what they are buying, what is selling now and how vendors can work with them in this fast-paced changing world as the next generation moves into needing and purchasing this category.

“We had a really enthusiastic audience discussing all things tabletop,” Paul said after the event. “It was great to engage with the audience about the sector.”

Paul Yeomans was joined on stage by Martha Nading, The Extra Ingredient and Laurie Burns, Burns Consulting

Sold out!

Exclusively 2024...

Exhibition space at the UK’s leading housewares, gift and small domestic electricals show, Exclusively (11– 12 June 2024 at The Business Design Centre, Islington) is sold out.

“The speed at which the space was snapped up, even in these fairly challenging times, shows yet again how the housewares, gift, and small domestic electricals sector has lost none of its appetite for a physical opportunity to showcase products and network face-to-face,” says show chair, Will Jones.

Exclusively regularly has over 130 companies and three hundred brands participating and attracts all the leading UK buyers in the categories it represents. It also targets international buyers, journalists, bloggers, and influencers, so the opportunities for exhibitors are extensive.

“Visitor turnout was fabulous in 2023 so I am sure that is contributing to exhibitor enthusiasm for 2024,” Will continued, “and we are delighted to welcome electricals brands such as Morphy Richards, Shark Ninja, Beam Group and Sebo, and Housewares brands like Bodum, Portmeirion, Minky, International Cookware & Pyrex, Aarke, ABS Pottery, Barista & Co, Zero Water, Premier Housewares and Museums & Galleries."

Lisa Delgado joins Orrefors & Kosta Boda

Lisa Delgado was recently announced as the new vice president of wholesale sales at Orrefors & Kosta Boda.

In her new role, Lisa will lead and drive the company’s wholesale sales strategies, fostering key relationships, and ensuring the continued growth and success of Orrefors & Kosta Boda in the North American market.

For wholesale inquiries, please feel free to reach out directly: lisa@orrefors. us or call +1 (856) 281-8888.

A first for Clay Craft India as it introduces digital printing

Clay Craft India Private Limited has become India’s first manufacturer of ceramic tableware products to introduce digital printing. The state-of-the-art printer has been sourced from Spanish supplier KERAjet.

Mr. Bharat Agarwal, director of Clay Craft India Private Limited, says, “We are proud to introduce the latest state of the art technology to India with ceramic digital printing on our beautifully handcrafted tableware. We are excited to be the flagbearer of this trend in India, bringing global standards to the forefront of the country’s ceramic industry. Our acquisition of the nation’s first ceramic digital printer for tableware is a testament to our commitment for innovation and quality.”

The digital printing for tableware market is poised for a 6.8 per cent CAGR from 2024 to 2029, reaching USD 452 million by 2029. This growth is attributed to the rising demand for sustainable printing practices and the transformative impact of digital printing technology.

Utopia on tour

Having launched 500 plus new products this spring, Utopia took to the road to bring them to its HoReCa customers and distributors. The Utopia Tour took place over February and March, visiting Westpoint, Dublin, Belfast, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Norwich, Manchester and Leeds.

“We had some brilliant feedback,” says

Josh Rammell, marketing manager at Utopia Tableware. “Several customers commented about how seeing new ideas in the flesh stimulated lots of new notions about presentation and even menu changes.”

Amongst the new lines to create a buzz were the Parador cups and saucers, an extension to the established Parador collection.

Lifetime Brands appoints head of UK independent sales

Lifetime Brands has appointed a new head of UK independent sales. The company’s large team of area sales managers will now be joined by Jayne O’Donnell in a move described as a “significant investment” in further bolstering the support Lifetime Brands offers its customers.

Claire Budgen, commercial & marketing director, says: “Jayne’s appointment turbocharges our historic commitment to support our independent retailers from every angle.”

The new appointment will provide a springboard for building existing and new relationships and drive the delivery of exceptional customer service.

Porcel adds to Elements concept with Corallyn

Porcel has expanded its Elements series, introducing a second collection, Corallyn.

The Elements concept is an innovative approach to reactive glazes, inspired by nature and decorated exclusively by hand – Lush Forest was the first collection in the series – and now, Corallyn is a celebration of the subtle beauty of the ocean.

Inspired by corals and marine life, the blue and aqua-green tones evoke the calm and tranquillity of the ocean. The porcelain is decorated by hand with the finishing touch of a gold rim.

www.porcel.com

Go to the Carnaval with Beatriz

Ball

Beatriz Ball has introduced a new collection to her range named Carnaval. A celebreation of colour, the pieces come with removable enamelled bases available in three different shades, complete with gold-coloured bowls in three different sizes. You can mix and match for a vibrant and playful look.

wholesale.beatrizball.com

When even the dinnerware is succulent

The Carrol Boyes brand is bringing art to the table with the Succulent Faces stoneware collection. The focus is on refined aesthetics and a lustrous finish, with the striking pieces offering versatility. They serve as more than just dinnerware, they are expressions of art – think cool grey tones with elegant monochromatic drawings. The range is available in sets of four, including cereal and soup bowl sets, dinner plate sets, side plate sets and mug sets, as well as a comprehensive 12-piece dinnerware set.

www.carrolboyes.com

Going XXL on steak

French brand Claude Dozorme recently launched its new XXL steak knife. With two models – the XXL One boasts rounded shapes, while the XXL Two features taut lines – clients can either choose mixed boxes but also boxes with a single model. Like all Claude Dozorme knives, the XXL steak knife is generously shaped while maintaining harmonious proportions.

The full grinded blade is 2.5 mm thick and 26/27mm high, while the 18mm handle lies perfectly in the hand, fingers instinctively finding their place.

www.dozorme-claude.fr

Inspired by… wood

Luzerne has been inspired by the raw elegance of fired wood with its latest collection. WoodFire is a bone series crafted with precision by skilled artisans, each piece is delicately shaped to emulate the authentic appearance of wood. The application of a special reactive glaze adds an element of unpredictability, mirroring the dynamic beauty found in natural wood grain. WoodFire is available in two enchanting colours: dark oak and antique pine, offering a unique fusion of rustic charm and artisanal craftsmanship.

www.luzerne.com

A celebration of contemporary cutlery

Sambonet has launched Neutra cultery – a contemporary collection designed to impressed.

Described by the Italian tastemakers as “essential, sober, luminous” the stainless steel collection takes its name from an archive series which inspired the Sambonet design team.

The result is a totally new and contemporary collection, respecting those proportions that make Sambonet pieces both practical and versatile.

Available in a mirror version and in a sophisticated antique finish, the collection is also offered in PVD 2 black and PVD Champagne. www.sambonet.com

It’s tea time with GEFU

GEFU’s new T-PREP teapot is the perfect combination of stylish design and innovation. Featuring lots of clever functions such as a unique brew-stop function and a lid which protects against loss of temperature and flavour, the teapot not only looks good, it is practical too. There is also a teapot warmer in the range which keeps tea at the perfect temperature.

www.gefu.com

HEPP is Cutting Edge

HEPP has introduced a Kickie Chudikovadesigned cutlery collection. The nine-piece Cutting Edge series has been inspired by the East Asian tradition of using spoons and chopsticks together, the collection combines the essence of Western and Asian table culture in its unique design. The surprising recess on the handle in combination with gently rounded edges makes the cutlery an eye-catcher. www.hepp.de

“With the Afina collection, I wanted to create an object for a world that is becoming increasingly digital. Afina is a tactile experience with an exceptional design. The relief, the raised rim and the exciting flowing shape add a sensory experience to everyday life. At the same time, the exceptional shape of the plates, a completely new design, gives the porcelain a floating appearance.”

Designer Christian Haas speaking about his new collection for Villeroy & Boch. Afina boasts sophisticated lines combined with a delicate relief on brilliant white premium porcelain.

Sieger By Fürstenberg introduces My China! Paraíso Blue

Sieger By Fürstenberg has introduced a new décor to the My China! series – Paraíso Blue. The 35-piece collection, which becomes available from the beginning of June 2024, tells a lavish story about the beauty of nature. Think tropical plants and wild animals such as leopards, parrots and toucans, and you’ll be transported to far-flung places all over the world. Working with meticulous attention to detail, designer Michael Sieger has created an elegant portrait of nature, which begs to be constantly rediscovered piece by piece. A gold star, applied and polished by hand, adorns every item in the collection.

www.sieger-germany.com

Vista Alegre adds to Chef’s Collection with Nello Cassese’s Florentino

The Chef’s Collection from Vista Alegre has been bolstered by a new piece, created with acclaimed chef Nello Cassese.

Four fresh stoneware collections from Arthur Krupp

The Arthur Krupp brand has launched four new stoneware lines – Golden Ray, Mediterranean, Ocean Denim and Thierra (pictured).

The Golden Ray collection boasts a yellow and golden relief decoration that expands from the center toward the edges of the plates, just like sun rays.

The Mediterranean series evokes the ancient tradition of majolica – tin-glazed pottery

popular in Italy, Spain and other Mediterranean countries.

Meanwhile, Ocean Denim is refined and contemporary with cool and intense colors on rough surfaces and deep textures, recalling the ocean.

Finally, there is Thierra which lends a sense of comfort to the table with its delicate nuances intensified on the edges. Visit www.sambonet.com for more.

Florentino is an homage to the chef’s home country of Italy and its world-renowned gastronomic culture. In particular, the piece is a nod to the ancient Renaissance art schools of Florence and Venice. Michelin starred chef Nello Cassese was born in Naples, Italy and his interest in cooking began at an early age when his grandmother cooked ragù and seafood for the family. A former Best Young Chef in Tuscany – which he won at just age 20 – Nello learned his trade working with famous British chef Gordon Ramsey. Since 2016 he has been in charge of Cipriani, the restaurant at the iconic Belmont Copacabana Palace hotel in Rio de Janeiro, where he has won several awards including a Michelin star.

Narumi introduces Primrose

Narumi has introduced a new professional dinnerware collection – Primrose. Inspired by the yellow flowers from which it takes its name, each piece bears an abstract pattern that evokes a sense of early spring, with pale background colours representing the flowers’ various delicate hues.

The plate is adorned with a white embossment that symbolises the melting of spring snow, with pearlescent hues shining under the light, much like primroses peeking through.

www.narumi.co.jp

The traditional touch

Loyal Paderno customer Opificio Cucina e Bottega – which creates menus using recipes that promote and respect the local region and environment – recently hosted a fresh pasta workshop for customers, using Paderno equipment.

The project was designed to promote ethical cooking and support the tradition of Italian pasta, with those taking part creating tortellini, culurgiones and maritati. And Paderno, of course, was central to the whole thing!

Did you know?

The BonBistro brand has launched its own social media channels. Reaching out to customers on Instagram and Facebook, the brand from Fine Dining & Living, will connect with buyers introducing exciting product launches, exclusive offers, and a wealth of inspiration for setting the perfect table. Make sure to visit them on Facebook: @bonbistro, and Instagram: @bonbistro.eu.

Goodfellows nod to Akoko

As West African restaurant Akoko celebrates a recent Michelin star, they have G&G Goodfellows to thank for their bespoke tablescapes. The London restaurant – run by Ayo and Aji –boasts a Nigerian menu blending smoke, spice, and savoury flavours, all served with a sophisticated tableware concept designed in G&G’s London Showroom. The showroom serves as both an inspirational space and a project workshop for teams to develop concepts. Pictured: Konstantinos Vasileiou, Akoko operations director, Nick Baxter, G&G Goodfellows business development manager, Aji Akokomi, founder Akoko.

Relaxed and rustic in chef Ron Blaauw’s venues

The acclaimed Dutch chef Ron Blaauw is using not one, but two, Heinen Delfts Blauw collections in his restaurants. Using Blauw Bloesem and Blauw Vouw, the chef looks to create a welcoming atmosphere in his venues. “I want a more casual atmosphere and I want it to be buzzing!” he says of the Ron Gastrobar concept. Despite a low key feel, everything is of the highest quality, including the tableware.

Awarded a Michelin star shortly after opening, Ron Blaauw combines two very different tableware collections from Heinen Delfts Blauw to create a casual atmosphere, a meeting between rustic and relaxed in a buzzing, vibrant city.

Steelite delivers the goods

Steelite International has made advances in its supply-chain capabilities. For 2024, the company’s UK warehouse now offers 3,500 SKUs directly from stock, while 1,700 SKUs are available from stock in the new European facility. Tableware International learns more…

Steelite International has upped the ante on its ability to deliver stock to clients. For 2024, the company’s UK warehouse will offer 3,500 SKUs directly from stock, with a further 1,700 SKU’s available from stock in the company’s European facility, which opened in 2023.

The meticulously curated assortment of products has been drafted to complete and complement any service – think a wide mix of tableware, glassware, cutlery, lighting, and buffet solutions.

Of the 3,500 SKUs available immediately from the UK warehouse – 1,500 are Steelite ownbrand and made in Stoke-on-Trent, while 2,000 SKUs belong to the company’s proprietary and partner brands.

When asked what the service offer means for the UK and Irish markets, Richard Price, Steelite’s VP sales UK & Ireland, told TI: “Phenomenal doesn’t even begin to describe our dedication to delivering exceptional service at lightning speed! In an industry where time is of the essence, we pride ourselves on our ability to serve our customers quickly and exceed expectations.”

In short, it is all about speed – Steelite has transformed its ability to deliver products.

“The Steelite from stock offer is unmatched,” Richard says. “Anticipating needs before they arise, exceeding expectations at every turn, and leaving a lasting impression, Steelite is proud to deliver world-class hospitality solutions to the industry quicker than ever, setting a new standard of excellence in the industry.”

Explaining Steelite’s elevation of its service offer, Richard says the company was driven by a “deep understanding of the evolving

needs and desires of our customers”.

He continues: “We have worked tirelessly as a team to ensure our service level is in line with our unmatched product design, quality, and durability. The seamless alignment of these pivotal factors, coupled with the profound depth of our offer, ensures that we deliver nothing short of excellence in every aspect.”

Likewise, Steelite’s new European warehouse – located in Schiphol Logistics Park in Rozenburg, Netherlands – is seeing similar advancements.

It now houses 1,700 SKUs all available from stock, bringing Steelite solutions closer to the European market than ever.

Alex Gonzalez, senior vice president of international markets, says: “Our new service offer represents a significant shift in the EMEA hospitality sector, aligning with Steelite International’s mission to be the preferred choice for tabletop, buffet, and table lighting products. It emphasises our dedication to customer satisfaction and sets a higher standard for the hospitality supplier industry.

“As leaders in the tabletop and buffet space, we prioritise listening to our customers and offering tailored solutions. Our ethos to being the leader in innovation and design reflects our dedication to meeting individual client requirements. Fostering personal relationships is central to our approach, highlighting their importance in this industry. Ultimately, our passion for hospitality permeates everything we do, making us a dynamic and customer-centric organisation.”

Email headoffice@steelite.com to contact the Steelite team.

We asked some key global companies whether retail sales were delivering, and if not, why? We also asked them to give us some indicators of how the retail sector will perform for 2024. Here’s what they had to say…

Are retail sales delivering?

“At thinKitchen, we are optimistic about the trajectory of the retail sector in India, anticipate robust growth both in the immediate and longerterm future. The Indian retail sector, globally the fifth-largest, is projected to achieve a growth rate of 10-13 percent in 2024, as forecasted by consulting firm Deloitte and the Investment Information and credit rating agency ICRA. This growth is expected to span the entire spectrum, encompassing both premium and value segments, a testament to India’s steady GDP growth, the advantageous demographic profile of a young population, increased disposable incomes and shifting consumer preferences. These elements collectively herald a promising outlook for the sector.

Bright spots such as network expansion, tech-driven transformation, higher rural consumption are helping in near term growth. Continued e-commerce growth, (India has the second largest user base globally) with a surge in quick commerce, hyperlocal delivery services and impulse purchases provide additional tailwinds. This scenario aligns perfectly with thinKitchen’s plans in the year to broadbase access to premium, international kitchen and homeware for the discerning Indian consumer.”

Anand Baldawa, CEO, thinKitchen

“Sales in the tabletop sector have certainly been under pressure during this recent period of cost of living challenges, as many would see new dinnerware as a discretionary rather than essential purchase. However, many purchase occasions still exist amongst a variety of audiences such as home renovators, the newly coupled, gift and garden sectors, so brands

and retailers must seek out these audiences with relevant offerings to maintain sales. At Denby we have a ‘buy well, buy once’ ethos which also resonates well with consumers rightly demanding more value for money and longevity from their purchases.

As for how the retail sector will perform for 2024, we believe it’s going to continue to be tough

Meet the panellists

Ananda Baldawa CEO, thinKitchen

Hayley Baddiley global marketing director, Denby

Leanne van Doleweerd sales & project manager, Heinen Delfts Blauw

backdrop for home and retail in general in 2024 with consumer and macro uncertainty likely to cause consumers to delay purchases they might otherwise have made, making it even more important to invest in messaging and campaigns which resonate with consumers and their current needs and mindsets.”

Hayley Baddiley, global marketing director, Denby

“Are retail sales of tabletop delivering? We spend a lot of time and energy in creating solid and strong collections, including our tableware collections for HoReCa. We keep innovating and expanding our collections and we work together with renowned Dutch designers to stay on top of the trends. It is important to make sure you always have enough stock so you can always deliver on demand, especially in the second half of the season when the big orders usually come in.

As for how the retail sector will perform for 2024, I expect the business will continue to grow. This is what we notice in our own company. The demand for beautiful and innovative tableware collections keeps growing. If we look back over the past three years, we have

Laura Fischer VP merchandise & tabletop product development, over&back

had a huge growth spurt. National, but also international. I think this is because our company has a very strong DNA, and a unique product with a significant history. Within the Netherlands we managed to make Delft blue earthenware popular again, but also internationally it is becoming a very desired product. We work together with renowned Dutch designers to keep the traditional product alive for future generations to come.”

Leanne van Doleweerd, sales & project manager, Heinen Delfts Blauw

“Retail sales of tabletop are delivering in club and online – you need to be where the consumer is shopping or at a discount.”

Laura Fischer, VP merchandise & tabletop product development, over&back

Denby

Heinen Delfts Blauw

The Em ma L in

Landmark… setting the stage for life

You can’t really call the 2023 Argentinian gia Global Honoree Tiendas Landmark a store. It is a theatrical universe where guests go to explore different lands and shopping is just one part of the exciting journey. Michelle Hespe finds out more

Unlike most retail stores, Tiendas Landmark does not have windows to show off the merchandise inside. Customers arrive at the entrance of the department store and are surrounded by an immersive artwork by kinetic artist Rafael Parratoro that magically covers the walls in shape-shifting streams of calming colours. To enter the store is like walking through a rainbow and stepping out the other side, into another world.

“We take customers far away from everywhere,” says Tiendas Landmark’s visual manager, Elena Scelzi. “We want visitors to have the sensation of walking through a space to someplace else – that they are taking a journey with us. That journey could be through a small

town in Europe or stepping into a bazaar in some exotic place. The store is built like a small town, with buildings, streets, a central piazza – there are pathways to follow, set out by the architecture.”

The mesmerising entrance is fitting because traveling is one of the core themes for Tiendas Landmark.

“We want to inspire our customers and show them that something as simple as your bed linen is special and that it can make you feel different, and take you somewhere else,” Elena says. “Things for everyday life should be special, as you use them often. Even if it is as simple as buying towels, we want people to feel that it’s a different experience – and that you

Did you know?

The entrance of Tiendas Landmark features an immersive artwork piece by kinetic artist Rafael Parratoro which covers the walls in shape-shifting streams of calming colours.

become a part of something else when you make a purchase.”

Elena explains that she and their buyers take choosing every single product very seriously. “Then my work is to help customers to mix and match the objects – to pull together a universe and present it to them,” she adds. “It can be a

and fueling emotions is unique. Its visual merchandising makes you smile, and the dramatic lighting further supports the theatrical experience.”

The judges all agreed Tiendas Landmark, which now has nine stores, is a best-case example of how the physical retail store can

“We want visitors to have the sensation of walking through a space to someplace else – that they are taking a journey with us”

Elena Scelzi, visual manager

dreamy, poetic experience, and it’s about recognizing the value of an object. All of the objects in our store have to tell a story.”

The gia expert jury applauded this unashamedly sentimental approach: “There is great storytelling with visual merchandising and a lot of unique, interesting details throughout the store. The way Tiendas Landmark uses props, creating a sense of fun

still be king.

“Tiendas Landmark offers so many reasons for customers to visit the store,” one judge said. “It is a meeting place, a destination, and an immersive experience. It’s a place for all of the senses, and a space for inspiration. Fun and exploratory, it offers pure entertainment.”

Tiendas Landmark has adopted a “store-within-a-store” approach,

so once customers are inside the 6,000-square-meter space, they can wander between the many lands (or “sets” as Elena calls them) that are devoted to individual brands – all with their own themes and atmosphere.

No matter which brand it is though, all products are carefully selected from international markets, with a sharp focus on global interior design trends. The store also has a customized consulting service, where professional designers work with customers to conceive and develop their projects – whether it be one room or an entire house.

“It’s a theme park for interior designers,” says Elena.

It is not surprising that this theatrical approach to retail shines so brightly at Tiendas Landmark –because Elena has a background in costume and set design, and she has worked for companies such as Cirque Du Soleil. “That is our special touch,” she says, “bringing the theatre world to retailing. Everything is like a show, and just like when a show opens to its audience, it has to be perfect. Something spectacular has to happen, that moves people.”

9 the number of Tiendas Landmark stores.

All of the senses are taken into account with the show, including scent and sound. One of the bestselling items is a fragrance called Dharma that was specifically developed for Landmark, and the music is just as personal and welcoming – energetic yet tranquil music such as bossa nova, smooth electronic tunes and jazz.

Tiendas Landmark has its own

to its knees, like most retailers Tiendas Landmark faced challenges with importing products due to transport logistics, and this led to the company establishing its own factory and warehouse.

“Things for everyday life should be special”

brands as well, including Landmark, Land (minimalist furniture), Land Kaffe (a café and restaurant run by renowned chef Martin Molteni), Crio (children’s furniture with clean Scandinavian style) and Mihran – a rug specialist that focuses on merging oriental styles with a modern aesthetic. In keeping with Tiendas Landmark’s artistic approach, the rugs are displayed like pieces in an art gallery.

“Mihran was actually the original business that was established in the 1950s and from which Tiendas Landmark grew,” explains Elena.

When Covid-19 brought the world

It’s a journey

Tiendas Landmark has adopted a “store-within-a-store” approach, so once customers are inside the 6,000-squaremeter space, they can wander between the many lands (or “sets” as Elena calls them) that are devoted to individual brands – all with their own themes and atmosphere.

Now products can be made and stored nearby, and as sustainability is a key objective of the business, this also helps to lower the company’s carbon footprint as it reduces the amount of products being packaged and transported.

“Having a production plant also allows us to provide customers with tailored furniture and many special finishing options,” says Elena.

When it comes to hiring staff, there is always a hands-on test in the thorough interview process where the candidate has to arrange a sector or some shelves of the store to demonstrate their creative flair. And as Landmark is in a constant state of expansion, there is always a focus on recruiting fresh new talent. The company will be partnering with the Faculty of Architecture, Design and Urbanism (FADU) and some other institutions, to launch a platform for new talent – recruiting young people who are studying for careers related to design.

Landmark staff are incredibly knowledgeable about the products, and are also passionate about art and design, which helps to foster trust and bonds with customers.

“People buying things online has grown, but it is not a long-term solution, and we can offer more in person,” says Elena. “We think it’s important to have a high-end, immersive shopping experience because then people come back again and again, and they form a deeper connection with our stores. I see it as them trusting us with their lives – what they buy, for how they live.”

Sponsored and organized by The Inspired Home Show and the International Housewares Association (IHA), gia (IHA Global Innovation Awards) is the world’s leading awards program honoring overall excellence, business innovation and creative merchandising in homegoods retailing. For more information about the gia retail program, the co-sponsors or participating in gia, contact Piritta Törrö at piritta.torro@inspiredconnection. fi. Additional information on gia is also available online at TheInspiredHomeShow.com/ Awards/gia-Retailing.

For more information about The Inspired Home Show 2024 and to pre-register for a free Show entrance badge, please visit TheInspiredHomeShow.com.

Spring is in the air

About T is for Table

T is for Table is a luxury independent boutique, with a focus on tabletop, in West Palm Beach, Florida. Open more than 20 years, it offers an experiential and inspirational space dedicated to helping customers tell stories, create traditions and celebrate life. The boutique offers everything from fine pottery, china, glass, serveware and table accessories, to home décor, jewellery and body products, and delivers a custom service with its custom engraving, home visits and gift registries. www.tisfortable.com

With spring just around the corner, our retail columnist Michele Trzuskowski has fallen head over heels for the mixed colour palette of blue and green – a welcome jolt of freshness to the table. Michele points us towards some of her favourite collections…

It’s not surprising to see blue still going as a strong colour trend in home décor, interior design, and dinnerware. But another emerging trend, in tableware, is green and, in some cases, we are seeing a mix of the two colours, for a fresh take on an old trend.

At a recent gift show I saw many introductions of both blues and greens. Some solids, while others were combined together in different patterns. If not a new introduction, there were many extensions to already successful patterns in those colours in serveware, or extra place setting pieces beyond the traditional four or five-piece dinnerware set.

The first one that comes to mind is Juliska’s introduction of Villa Seville – a great collection from Portugal inspired by the city’s romantic Moorish and Gothic architecture with wildflowers to create a great eclectic collection. I love the different shapes of dinnerware, either scalloped or floral, they add distinction to the collection – whether you are using together, or mix and matching with other patterns.

In addition, Juliska also presented Puro Basil and Sitio Stripe Basil, a rich herbal green either in a solid border as is the case of Puro, or a striped border, in the case of Sitio. These all, of course, mix and match with the Villa Seville mentioned above.

Juliska wasn’t alone in getting on the “green” bandwagon. Skyros Designs also recently came out with a great collection called Maderia Meadow. Named after the green meadows and colourful wildflowers found on the island of Madeira, was inspired by the island’s lush grasses, vibrant coloured fruit and abundant seafood. The Maderia Meadow coupé salad plate mixes greens and blues in a beautiful floral pattern with two options of dinner plates to accompany it. They offer

the Pinho Pinstripe Dinner – a striped border pattern in green – along with a soft fern green bordered dinner plate. The rest of the assortment is in a solid green which again, complements the dinnerware set.

This spring, Skyros Designs released Trelica – Portuguese for trellis, a fresh take on a green lattice pattern with mosaic designs on the salad plate and a banded cereal bowl in green with dots. It is a seamless complement to the already existing Maderia. Personally, I love its clean simplicity and the perfect hue of green.

I credit both Juliska and Skyros

But the greens and blues don’t only apply to just dinnerware, the colour trend can also be seen in glassware. For example, Mariposa recently introduced the Line collection which is a very well-priced assortment of wine, coupe, and double old-fashioned glasses available in soft blues and greens – perfect for spring and as a complement to the dinnerware cited above.

Vietri also joined the movement with their Nuvola handblown stemware collection in assorted mixed colours (one being green and blue) and their newest collection, Nuovo, offering a striped glass assortment. The Nuvolo chic

“The green and blue trend isn’t just for stoneware, I found it in porcelain dinnerware as well”

for accessorising these new patterns with an assortment of co-ordinating napkins, making it an easy collection to sell and allowing for a beautiful tablescape. If you haven’t investigated either of these patterns – you should.

The green and blue trend isn’t just for stoneware, I found it in porcelain dinnerware as well. Take Caskata for example, they’ve introduced and promoted mixing the blues and greens in several collections. Their Garden Gate collection, as well as their Freya and Arbor patterns, are both meant to be standalone but they mix and match with ease. Co-ordinating Caskata’s striped chargers with the lattice or floral bordered dinnerware is easy for even a novice in table décor.

Vietri

blue and green glassware takes advantage of both colour trends while the Nuovo striped goblet is available in a green or blue stripe. Both assortments include a wine goblet, tumbler, and stemless wine glass that could also serve as a double old- fashioned.

Of course, there are many more examples out there along with introductions of table linens, coloured flatware and serving pieces all in the blue/ green movement. Its timing is perfect as we are all ready for a refresh this spring. In this case we might not be averse to doing the dishes when they are as beautiful as the previously stated collections – after all, as the late, great comedian Robin Williams once said: “spring is nature’s way of

Mariposa

Skyros

A celebration of time -honoured technique s, Portmeirion Minerals is a stoneware collection made with purpose .

Thoughtfully designed, from the curves of the bowls to the feel of the mugs in your hands, each piece is sculpted for longevity.

Made to love , made to last

A celebration of time honoured techniques to create products you’ll love and treasure for a lifetime .

Inspired by Nature Consciously Designed Stoneware

Invigorate the senses with nature -inspired glazes, tactile shapes and e or tless beau ty

Made from at least 90% recycled materials with minimal and recyclable packaging. Once fired in production to save energy.

Made to love made to last

Made from organic clay which when fired with reactive glaze, creates naturally unique pieces.

Arita porcelain is world renowned, famed for its quality and excellence. The Kinshodo company (who, coincidentally, are based in Arita, Japan ) embrace all that is exceptional about crafting porcelain. As they look to gradually increase sales in Europe and the United States, Kinshodo are actively seeking distributors. Tableware International spoke with Shinji Kaneko, president, to learn more about the company’s exquisite brand of Japanese craftsmanship…

Firstly Mr Kaneko, what qualities make Arita porcelain so unique and different from other porcelain on the market?

Arita, dating back to 1616, stands as Japan’s pioneering region in porcelain production. Its porcelain is renowned for its slightly bluish-white glaze, which has captivated European nobility since the 17th century and influenced the establishment of Meissen porcelain in Germany. Traditional designs often feature serene underglaze blue or vibrant overglaze enamels.

Tell us more about Kinshodo as a company?

Records indicate that my greatgrandfather, Linzō Kaneko, won the top prize at a ceramic competition in 1910, marking a significant milestone in the family’s legacy. It was Linzō whose name inspired the creation of ‘Lin Japan’. He was renowned as a skilled artisan in overglaze enamels. In 1961,

the company, Kinshodo, was founded by my parents, Teruo and Minato, in Arita Town. In 1975, with the establishment of the present-day Arita Sera shopping mall, Kinshodo relocated. Since then, the presidency has been passed down to Shinji Kaneko, who continues to lead the company to this day.

Is honouring the heritage of Artia porcelain important to Kinshodo?

Arita-yaki holds a special position among Japan’s ceramicproducing regions. This is because our ancestors have upheld tradition and innovation for over 400 years.

Lin Japan, part of Kinshodo, has an interesting story behind it – can you explain the concept to us?

In 2015, amidst challenges such as the Lehman Shock and the Great East Japan Earthquake, Kinshodo

faced tough times and sought a catalyst for change. Upon learning of the overseas popularity of Nambu ironware, an idea sparked – could metallic Arita-yaki find success in foreign markets? With the collaboration of Aka-e artisans and locals from Arita, samples for Lin Japan were created. However, traditionalists in Japan’s ceramic industry did not appreciate the metallic texture. When shown to buyers from other industries, however, it quickly gained traction. Coinciding with the 400th anniversary of Aritayaki’s founding, it became widely recognized.

How often do you launch new ranges within Lin?

We introduce new shapes to the market every year, with collections typically released at intervals of about three years.

“We aim to gradually increase sales in Europe and the United States. We are actively seeking distributors for this purpose”

Kinshodo recently won a Tableware International Award of Excellence for Lin Marble – what impressed the judges was the journey the collection has been on and in particular the overglaze technique. Why was it so important to get this collection just right?

While variation in patterns may be acceptable for ceramicartists’

The art of being different...

Meet the Lin family

We look at Kinshodo’s Lin family of brands –each offering products with a different stylistic approach…

Lin Japan: Elevating design to new heights through the refined expertise of our artisans. Lin represents a fresh and inventive approach to Arita Porcelain, harmonizing premium porcelain with a sleek, contemporary aesthetic that captivates. The lustrous, vivid hues of Lin’s metallic-textured porcelain dance in the light, casting an ever-changing spectacle of allure and fascination. Driven by our craftsmen’s unyielding quest for elegance, Lin promises to elevate the ambiance of your home.

Lin Awa: In the production process of Lin Awa porcelain, there is inevitably a certain degree of defective raw material that arises and is usually discarded. However, at Lin Awa, we repurpose these by finely crushing them and incorporating them as a new decorative method, aligning with the principles of the SDGs. These bubbles offer a sense of novelty, presenting various expressions.

Lin Marble: Lin Marble: This modern style elevates the ancient luster glazing technique originating from 9th-century Persia. The metallic shimmer reveals a range of expressions reminiscent of marble. The process involves applying the luster glaze through overglaze painting and coating it with a special liquid before firing. It’s a highly challenging technique, taking three years to complete.

Lin NY: Inspired by the effortlessly chic New Yorkers we encountered in NY NOW, Lin has crafted a line that embodies their style. The Lin New York collection upholds our centuries-old tradition of quality craftsmanship while introducing oversized products for a visually stunning impact.

creations such as Lin Marble, as a manufacturer producing tableware for the market, consistent patterns within a certain range are essential for commercial viability. Since the successful development of Lin Japan in 2015, Kinshodo has regarded it as their mission to create products that are not easily replicated by other companies in Japan or overseas. It’s common in the ceramics industry for copies to circulate within a few months once a design gains popularity.

Is the Lin range available in Europe, the UK and the US – are you stocked in retailers or perhaps you are looking for distributors?

“We aim to gradually increase sales in Europe and the United States. We are actively seeking distributors for this purpose”

Currently, our products are available at CITE, an interior shop located in SOHO, New York, and at Japanese Knife in London. While we cannot expand production rapidly, we aim to gradually increase sales in Europe and the United States. We are actively seeking distributors for this purpose.

What does recieving a Tableware International Award of Excellence mean to you? I’m honoured to have received such a prestigious award. I believe this serves as a great opportunity to expand the sales of Lin Japan in Europe and the United States.

What are your thoughts on the tableware industry at the moment?

Unfortunately, I currently lack the knowledge to discuss tableware from around the world. However, considering that resources are finite, I believe it would be beneficial for companies to compete based on their individuality rather than resorting to copying or mass production. Continuously introducing beautiful tableware to the market in this manner would contribute to the happiness of humanity.

Lin Awa

Lin Marble

Glassware, uncovered…

As a core industry category, glassware is of primary importance. Good glassware, even more so! From brightly coloured, casual consumer ranges through to chic barware options and elegant stemware – we shine a light on some of glassware’s most in-demand products

Barware

With the art of mixology front and centre in the barware trade, good looking glassware is a must...

Krosno

As part of their new handmade whisky series, Krosno has introduced three new collections – Perfect Serve Gentleman, Perfect Serve Scotland and Perfect Serve Sky. Each delivers a unique set of assets – Perfect Serve Gentleman features handmade glasses and carafes which were created to celebrate the 100th anniversary of craftsmanship and glass artistry. Meanwhile the Perfect Serve Scotland set is a top-notch gift for whisky connoisseurs while the handmade Perfect Serve Sky includes a carafe and a set of glasses as well as vodka glasses - a sophisticated gift for connoisseurs with refined taste.

www.krosno.com

RCR

RCR’s new collection, the Melodia series has been bolstered by a new G&T glass, Nick & Nore and coupette. The range has been described as both “comforting and versatile” with the brand adding this is a favourite glassware line for millions of customers, along with being a major player in the world of mixology where has imposed itself as an icon.

www.rcrcrystal.com

Stölzle Lausitz

From Stölzle Lausitz, Kyoto is a new mixology series, aligning with the concept of elegant simplicity and exceptionally lightweight glassware. Also look out for the Soho line, the glasses are characterised by the diamond cut technology and the debossed lines. A Champagne saucer, the Champagne saucer Grand Cru and cocktail glass has been added to the range.

https://stoelzle-lausitz.com

Utopia

Raffles is one of the biggest selling ranges of cocktail glassware for Utopia.

As the name suggests, the design has a hint of refined decadence, and this rakishly handsome collection evokes the fun, frivolity and passion of the roaring 1920s. With a choice of tumblers, hiballs, flutes, gin goblets, martini, coupe and Nick & Nora, Raffles is a comprehensive range with 29 different glasses of handmade, hand cut crystal and four choices of pattern, three cut and one plain.

www.utopia-tableware.com

Vista Alegre

Vista Alegre is back in the spotlight of international cinema with a whisky glass developed exclusively for the film Argylle, the razor-witted, reality-bending, globe-encircling new spy thriller directed by Matthew Vaughn (Kingmsan franchise, Kick-Ass). This crystal whisky glass, handmade in Portugal, is decorated with a unique Argylle diamond cut. Due to Agent Argylle’s special taste for Old Forester Statesman bourbon, the Vista Alegre glass appears at various points in the story.

www.vistaalegre.com

Zwiesel Glas

The new Volume bar series from Zwiesel Glas impresses with its unique, modern design and captivates with the special design of the base plate. The impression of sound waves reflects the reverberation of the aromas of a perfect drink. This not only highlights the individual nuances of whiskies and cocktails. The comprehensive bar series has the right glass for every drink and is available in eleven sizes - five tumblers and six stemware. Volume is machine-made in Germany from Tritan® crystal glass. Sustainable production and a particularly long service life are thus guaranteed.

www.zwiesel-glas.com

Krosno

RCR

Stölzle Soho

Stölzle Kyoto

Utopia

Vista Alegre

Fine 2 Dine

Elegant enough to look beautiful on the dinner table, durable enough to use every day. You’ll find yourself reaching for Fine 2 Dine’s Kolon glasses for every occasion. Notice the bulky shape and small bubbles within the glass. The colours of these handmade items are infused within the molten glass, what guarantees the sustainability of its colors, even after heavy use or multiple dishwasher cycles.

www.fine2dine.com

NUDE

The in-house designed Juno collection from NUDE is characterised by curvaceous forms which undulate and intertwine, paired with an eyecatching orange hue. Handcrafted from crystalline glass, the range includes a carafe and glass, cake dome and two serving plates which were designed to bring people together to experience culinary delights. Each piece in the range makes a bold statement whether used separately or in unison. https://eu.nudeglass.com

Orrefors

More from Orrefors was first intended as a collection for restaurants, but after interviewing restaurateurs about everything from form to sustainability, designer Erika Lagerbielke was able to design a collection equally appreciated at dinner parties and family meals. All pieces in the More collection – from the wine glasses and snaps glasses to the versatile, all-purpose tumbler – share Lagerbielke’s ability to combine the elegance of glass with a sense of how people want to meet, eat and drink today: in a relaxed, inclusive and pleasant setting.

www.orrefors.com

Serax

The mouth blown Dune Glassware by Kelly Wearstler for Serax is an ode to simplicity. The subtly dynamic, but classic silhouette is accentuated by the distinctive ribbed detailing in the same place on all items.

www.serax.com

Zwiesel Glas

The first wine tumbler series Up from Zwiesel Glas literally takes drinking pleasure to the next level: three tumblers provide the perfect setting for enjoying sparkling wine, white wine and red wine. Minimalist, straightforward and reduced to the essentials - Up is the epitome of uncomplicated drinking pleasure. The highly functional and sensorytested level provides optimum aeration for the respective drinks. The various aromas break through at the edge, allowing them to develop harmoniously. In addition to wine, the versatile tumblers are also suitable as all-round drinking glasses for water, cocktails, juices, soft drinks and much more.

www.zwiesel-glas.com

Nude

Zwiesel Glas

Serax

Fine 2 Dine

Coloured

Continuing to be a popular choice for buyers, coloured glassware is helping to inject lots of fun to tables. Look out for brightly hued jewel tones but equally, you’ll find pastels and chic, muted shades too…

Villeroy & Boch

Serax

In addition to Serax’s Zuma porcelain tableware, designer Kelly Wearstler created glassware in amber hues that were so widely used in antique and vintage glassware around the world. The unique colour progression effect is obtained by using three layers of glass: the amber-coloured mass is injected in between two layers of transparent glass. The airy, breezy colour contrasts beautifully with the distinctive, thick glass base and the pareddown, straight shape of these tumbler glasses.

www.serax.com

Salt&Pepper

The Prisma range from Salt & Pepper is a fun collection with geometric shapes, available in two daring colourways.

www.fine2dine.com

Utopia

Impression is Utopia’s top selling coloured glassware range. These chic tumblers are handmade and generate a real impact, enhancing the table or bar with their translucent colouring and elegance. Impression glasses are available in four distinctive colourways, aqua blue, purple, green and smoke grey.

www.utopia-tableware.com

Vidivi

Vidiv recently launched its new collection of coloured glasses – High Vibes – a limited edition crystalline series. Nature has been a source of inspiration behind the design of the collection with the

sea, earth and sky all providing a colour base for the design team.

Coming in four different shades with four short and four tall glasses, High Vibes is a superb option for those looking to inject some life into their glassware collections.

www.vidivi.it

Villeroy & Boch

Colourful, sparkling and trendy – that’s the popular Boston glass classic.

The existing selection of Clear, Red, Blue, Green, Smoke and Apricot is now being extended with two new colours: the beautifully bold and vibrant light pink shade of Berry and the warm yellow sunshineinfused shade of Saffron.

Boston is revealing some new shapes too: the collection now includes two multifunctional, crystal-clear bowls to serve all kinds of culinary creations, from salads to desserts, fruit, savoury snacks or sweet treats.

www.villeroy-boch.com

Bordallo Pinheiro

Make way for Bordallo Pinheiro’s Carmen – a new glassware line that is fun, festive and unapologetically extravagant! In the collection’s goblets, where each foot features a popular fruit (strawberry, orange, grape or lemon), the bowl is made of faceted glass, creating an exotic dance between the transparency of the body and the threedimensional exuberance of the base.

https://international. bordallopinheiro.com

Serax

Bordallo Pinheiro

Vidivi

Salt&Pepper

Utopia

Ona

These Bubble glasses from ONA, with their pastel colourways and playful structure, give an extra dimension to drinks. The glasses are mass-coloured which guarantees the sustainability of their colour, even after several dishwashing cycles.

www.fine2dine.com

Decorative

ARTĚL

ARTĚL

Consisting of four motifs designed by Amber Cowan, the Flights Of Fantasy collection can be purchased either as a set or individually. Each design is exclusively available in two shapesDouble Old Fashioned and Small Tumbler - and a single vibrant colour, namely blush, aqua, lilac and peridot.

www.artelglass.com

Making spaces beautiful, one piece at a time…

Dartington

Honouring over 50 years of glassmaking heritage, Dartington Crystal will reintroduce some of its most beloved classics exclusively for 2024. The Heirloom Collection comprises iconic, artful homewares and signature drinkware, paying homage to the original designs of Frank Thrower, the creative force that shaped Dartington Crystal's signature style from its inception in 1967 until his passing in 1985.

One of the four Heirloom collections launching this year, Daisy was originally designed by Frank Thrower in 1974. The Heirloom Daisy Collection includes a Large Bowl, Medium Bowl, and Small Bowl Pair.

www.dartington.co.uk

Vidrios San Miguel

Spanish glass maker Vidrios San Miguel has launched a new coffee mug – made entirely of recycled glass. Designed to elevate morning rituals, the brand’s Glass Coffee Mug, is made in Spain from 100 per cent recycled glass post-consumer. Its modern and minimalist design adapts to any style, from classic to contemporary and its ontrend colour options elevates it even further for buyers.

www.vsanmiguel.com

Wellwares

Wellwares

Featuring a bright and vibrant design, the Confetti Glass Vase from Wellwares is a unique piece handcrafted by glass artisans using ancient techniques. Each vase is one-of-a-kind with slight colour variations, making it a special addition to a home’s interior.

www.wws-ceramic.com

NUDE

NUDE showcases the steel blue colourway to the iconic Contour collection designed by Pentagon Design. Featuring three vases, the collection is characterised by a sculptural silhouette and visual illusion which makes the form seem at once solid and ethereal.

Another Pentagon Design range, the spherical vases in Mars are an homage to the planet Mars and its two moons. Mars, the fourth planet from the sun, has long captivated human imagination with its shades of orange and steel blue. Reimagined for the home, the Mars collection is crafted from mouth-blown glass and is available in three sizes.

eu.nudeglass.com

Ona

Dartington

Nude Mars

Nude Contour

Vidrios

Guide to Glassware

Hospitality

Luigi Bormioli

Glassware that works hard, but is beautiful too...

Luigi Bormioli’s Backdoor ‘20s collection has been inspired by the timeless charm of 1920s America.

Crafted with precision, the glasses feature an ultra-thin rim meticulously designed to enhance the gustatory impact of cocktails, elevating the drinking experience to new heights. Each glass in the collection bears the name of iconic cocktails such as the Hemingway Special, Tequila Sunrise, and Gin & Tonic, adding an extra layer of allure and nostalgia. The range is distributed in the US by BauscherHepp.

www.bormioliluigi.com

www.bauscherhepp.com

BonBistro

The Apero collection consists of small appetizer glasses perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether it's an amusebouche, an appetiser or even a chocolate mousse with coffee, the Apero glasses can be effortlessly adapted to the circumstances. The glasses are also dishwasher safe, so you don’t need to worry when using them over and over again.

www.finediningandliving.eu

RCR

Italian brand RCR are always delivering top-quality glassware and the Timeless collection is evidence of that.

Made in Italy, Timeless boasts worldwide success making it an undisputed and timeless style icon, chosen by top spirits producers to represent their brands.

New to the range is the spritz, martini, Champagne and cocktail glasses.

www.rcrcrystal.com

Wilmax

Wilmax focuses on offering a wide range of products in its thermal glassware range. The Wilmax Thermal collection is made of borosilicate glass, and is both stylish and versatile. Double wall glasses hold the temperature well and can work for serving both hot and iced drinks. The brand’s cups and mugs come in different shapes and sizes, with or without handles. They also offer textured thermal glass. “We always had a big variety of plain and double wall glasses in our collection. Now we are launching a series of glasses and jugs with a segmented/stripy texture and glasses with a hammered texture, adding in total 150 new shapes to our already extensive collection,” says a brand spokesperson.

https://wilmax.uk

Zwiesel Glas

The Cinco banquet series from Schott Zwiesel is the perfect companion, both in restaurants and at events. With its modern, yet very compact, short-stemmed shape and balanced goblet sizes, the Cinco range is suitable for everything from classic restaurant meals to formal banquets and informal celebrations. The five sizes in the range - white and red wine, sparkling wine, allround and gin and tonic glasses - provide an ideal setting for almost any drink. Cinco is machine-made in Germany from Tritan®️ crystal glass and is particularly durable, brilliant, break resistant and dishwasher-safe. www.zwiesel-glas.com

Luigi Bormioli

BonBistro

Wilmax

RCR

Zwiesel Glas

Classic elegance never goes out of style... Stemware

Fine 2 Dine

Fine 2 Dine

Optic is an elegant design based on gracefully shaped arches with a modern twist. This popular crystal collection with its unique structure has a European finesse.

www.fine2dine.com

NUDE

NUDE has introduced its newest colourway launch, Dusty Rose, which adorns the Round Up collection of wineware. Available in four glass sizes, the handmade lead-free glasses have been designed with a rounded bowl which encourages smooth pouring and encapsulates aromas.

eu.nudeglass.com

Orrefors

Intermezzo Gold by Erika Lagerbielke is a tribute to Orrefors' 125th anniversary and a reinterpretation of the classic tableware series Intermezzo, first launched in 1985. The collection, at once timeless

and contemporary, represents Orrefors' unbeatable craftsmanship, quality and aesthetics and is an important part of Orrefors’ brand evolution and range development.

Intermezzo Gold includes a selection of glasses from the series’ original launch in 1985: three wine glasses, three bar glasses, a water glass and carafe, and last but not least the champagne glass – a favorite of the designer herself. All Intermezzo Gold glasses are mouth-blown in Sweden by Orrefors' skilled glassblowers.

www.orrefors.com

Riedel

Riedel has launched its Grape@Riedel collection, which is available in a trio of sizes –Cabernet/Merlot (which can also be used for cocktails), Pinot Noir/Aperitivo, and Riesling/ Spritz Drinks. Grape@Riedel introduces the concept of multi-purpose glasses that are perfect for serving both an array of wines and other beverages and cocktails.

www.riedel.com

Orrefors

Serax

Besides a porcelain dinnerware and coffee set, Midnight Flowers - Italian fashion house Marni’s first tableware collection - also comprises five refined glasses: a water glass on a small base, a champagne coupe and flute, and wine glasses. Each glass features a laser-engraved flower motif. This labourintensive process is repeated three times for an optimal effect. Finally, the glass is finished with an oil-based polish to enhance the subtle transparency of the engraved motif. The result is an artistic set of glasses worthy of the renowned fashion house.

www.serax.com

Stölzle Lausitz

The FINO range was launched by Stölzle Lausitz in 2022. FINO is the brand’s lightest machine made glass and is characterised by its lightweight and simple elegance. The range also boasts a Burgundy and the Bordeaux glass to offer a complete range of glasses.

https://stoelzle-lausitz.com

Riedel Stölzle

Nude

Serax

Tableware Trend Analyst

Donna Ferrari Directions in design

Donna Ferrari has worked in magazine publishing for over thirty years. As a consumer magazine editor she specialised in the tableware, homeware and bridal markets, and styled and produced stories related to bridal gift registry, wedding reception design and at-home entertaining. Personally, she has eleven different sets of dinnerware and closets dedicated just to tabletop accessories; she says she loves not ever having to set her table the same way twice.

In this issue, our trend analyst, Donna Ferrari, observes leading directions in tableware design. She notes ways brands are keeping luxe dinnerware on-topic across generations, the latest criteria for designing tableware and the increasing popularity of products with a fluted or linear design. Additionally, a look at brands turning to the colour black to create tabletop pieces ranging from elegant to edgy

Luxe that lasts

With today’s freedom of creative expression in mind, high-end tableware brands are promoting how the timeless power of the classic to contemporary dinnerware designs they create are adaptable to any trend

Wedgwood’s Florentine Turquoise dinnerware pattern was first introduced in 1931. The brand is now highlighting the iconic pattern in a new campaign aimed at presenting its enduring relevance and timeless appeal. The campaign features Britain’s cheeky pensioner Grime Gran and an A-list of hip native influencers interacting with the product in surprising ways. New colours including Citron (shown), Fuchia and Marien are offered in addition to the original Turquoise version. At the apogee of luxe looks Bernardaud’s Enchanté pattern, an homage to King Louis XIV’s palace and gardens, is reworked from period engravings of Versailles—a pattern apt for a sumptuous table setting or the flip side trend to create fantastical tablescapes on the other side of serious. At designer Olivier Maillefer has given a twist to traditional Japanese Imari porcelain designs to create The Color Table Imari Collection. Geometric elements framing delicate watercoloured florals bring a modernised take on the traditional ware. The Romane collection by Haviland inspired by regional designs woven into textiles from South Asia to Eastern Europe, comes in Grey or Orange and features a romantic botanical motif that is perfect for the trending appeal of bohemian-style designs on the global market. Tiffany & Co.'s True dinnerware collection incorporates the brand's signature colour and interlocking T design which is also featured in the Tiffany T True jewellery lines. Used on the dinnerware the graphic design makes it a versatile pattern for both formal and casual table settings.

Bernardaud Tiffany

Raynaud

Wedgwood

Haviland

Timelessly elegant, simple and beautiful.

Round Up Collection, now available in Dusty Rose color!

Function, form, feel, fun

Tableware creations emphasising functional multi-purpose use, with distinctive shapes, high-touch textures and often with a dash of humour and surprise are the hallmarks of today’s tableware designs — and potentially tomorrow’s classics

Nymphenburg’s Lightscape Gold dinnerware, designed by Ruth Gurvich, takes its shapes from models that the designer created with paper. The kinks, pinches, and folds that come with shaping paper are fundamental to the design of the collection and echo the trend for perfect imperfection giving the pattern a modern attitude that can feel at home for any meal. J.L. Coquet’s Rêve hot beverage suite (gold teapot shown) imagined by designer Thomas Bastide features fun, balloonlike shapes that look ready for lift-off. The Phoebe stemmed and stemless wine glasses from Caskata, available in Clear, Rose and Cobalt, are crafted with an eye-catching diamond optic technique that is also discernable to the touch. Designer Aurélie Bidermann created a bold, haptic, stylised braid pattern for Christofle’s Babylone collection, which includes dining, home decor, and jewellery pieces. Riedel’s decanter envisioned by Maximilian J. Riedel, exemplifies his credo that its design should blend beauty and function and align with the modern trend of casual dining. From Nude the Omnia Dripping Drops drinkware range, a Mario Trimarchi design, rejects symmetry and embraces a radical and whimsical POV.

Linear designs are a classic that always stays in style. They can be in relief, grooved, fluted, or with stripes, and compatible with the growing trend of living in uncluttered spaces. With that in mind, it is not surprising that this classic, simplified design staple is having a major moment in the latest tableware products

Lyngby Porcelæn’s Tura series, designed by Philip Bro Ludvigsen, showcases grooved porcelain products’s minimalist aesthetic with both an elegant and everyday DNA. Moser’s Harmonic Vases collection, designed by Jan Plecháč, comes in two colourways with the gradient effect of their fluted panel cuts evoking the transition of light with pink for dawn and a smoky green for dusk. Kosta

Boda’s Pavilion collection of vases (Tulip Grey shown), is designed in collaboration with design studio Front, and offered in assorted shapes and colours which can be grouped as the vertical relief they have in common serves as a unifying element. Wedgwood's Helia dinnerware pattern features a neoclassical-style colonnade of

Nymphenburg

Caskata

Chrisofle

Lyngby

Moser

J.L Coquet

Kosta Boda

Nude

Riedel

Big on black

Black, long a go-to colour in the world of fashion is now trending to new heights in designs for living. Colour of the Year awards report rooms with black-painted walls are in vogue and considered cosy and classy. Some of the latest tabletop items feature the colour black in a lively and good-humoured way, while still maintaining a sleek, sophisticated appearance

For the On the Dot collection Kate Spade New York opted for the impactful palette of black polka dots on a white field. Rosenthal meets Versace's Signature dining range now has a dramatic black option, which creates an illusionistic effect by contrasting geometric elements in black and white. Robert Haviland & C. Parlon’s new Black Mandalay edition of the original White Mandalay version designed by Arielle de Brichambaut enhances the pattern’s playful theme of white grains of rice each seeming to go in a direction of their own. In step with the trend for using black in tableware designs, Vista Alegre’s, Calçada Portuguese — which translates as Portuguese pavement, collection, designed by Manoela Medeiros references the famous black and white designs made of paving stones used to adorn some of Lisbon’s pedestrian walkways. MissPrint’s Dewdrops pattern uses the clarity of black to underscore the charm of the low-tech, hand-drawn graphic design. At Beatriz Ball New Orleans black alabaster, a mineral rare in nature, is convincingly portrayed in the individually hand-cast, Frosted Black Alabaster glass bowls range. The black version of Marimekko’s Unikko motif, a design celebrating its 60th anniversary, showcases how black can have the same vibrancy and energy as any other colour. Bordered in black, the L’Objet Soie Tressée - French for Silk Braid, pattern, looks très chic. No colour combination can express precision and harmony the way black and white does. This duo, seen in Sieger by Fürstenburg’s Luna collection, makes for a timeless statement piece. An edgier yet still fanciful side of black is brought to life in the Frankenstein plate from Lool

stripes that exemplifies the elegance of a simple linear design. The Apollo tea launch, developed in collaboration with tea sommelier Lydia Gautier, offers crystal tumblers in different sizes (full-bodied tea tumbler shown) for light or dark teas. The clear, fluted surface of the glass serves to illuminate and reveal the different colours of each type

Round Up Dusty

that transmits light to the wine. Spode's new Steccato collection features a striped design that brings a boost to the brand's classic Blue Italian and Brocato patterns when

Kate Spade

MissPrint

Vista Alegre

Sieger by Fürstenburg

Rosenthal meets Versace

Haviland

Nude

Spode

Wedgwood

Saint-Louis

Marimekko

Floor 7

www.overback.com

In 2023, over&back revolutionised the dining experience to provide everything you need to set a table, and now, we’re stepping into your kitchen and home with unparalleled style and functionality.

In the dining room, the brand has perfected every detail of your tablescape, offering timeless dinnerware, exquisite table linens, mouth-blown glassware, coordinated linens, and sleek flatware. And in the kitchen, they are equipped to enhance your culinary adventures, from baking to cooking to pantry organisation.

Beyond the dining and kitchen spaces, over&back is dedicated to helping you express your unique design style throughout your entire home with nature-inspired wall art, ornate mirrors, and meticulously crafted decorative objects, all designed to infuse every corner with warmth and personality.

New York Tabletop Show takes place this April. TI previews some exhibitors who will showcase their top-tier brands…

The business capital calls

Did you know?

With over 40 years of passion for dinnerware, over&back has mastered the art of setting the table. Now, they are expanding their horizons, introducing a stunning range of products to elevate every aspect of your home. You will soon find over&back in every major marketplace, where their curated collections await, designed to fulfill every entertainer’s dream. Porland

Floor 18

www.PorlandUSA.com

Visit the Porland showroom to see their wide range of collections including Botanical an exquisite tabletop collection presenting delicate wildflowers of the countryside such as the wild iris, lavender and butterfly bush. The patterns provide a feast of nature for the dinner table.

Made of alumite premium porcelain, the 12-piece set includes four dinner plates, four salad plates and four bowls. The collection is also available in 2pc bowl sets, 4-piece mug sets and 6-piece coaster sets.

Botanical is a truly timeless dinnerware collection made of premium porcelain to be elegant yet unfussy. Although the patterns are delicate, the plates and bowls are strong. The collection is made from a proprietary alumilite porcelain formula that gives the dinnerware high mechanical strength, while maintaining a slim and lightweight profile.

New York Tabletop Show

Orrefors Kosta Boda

Floor 9

www.orrefors.com

www.kostaboda.com

The Rocky Baroque collection from Kosta Boda is an equally rebellious and playful remix of the classic column. Monumental lines collide with pop colors and raw, angular surfaces in this unique series. Not least in this vase, looking to turn any twig or bouquet into art, or simply brighten your room on its own. Available in multiple colours, is has been designed by Hanna Hansdotter. Meanwhile, the Carat collection is based on a contemporary interpretation of the traditional cut glass that has made Orrefors known around the world. The irregular geometry produces beautiful light reflections in the crystal glass. The Old Fashioned, DOF and Highball glasses – that are also dishwasher safe –give everything from water to cocktails a shimmering home. Designed by Lena Bergström.

Villeroy & Boch

Floor 18

www.villeroy-boch.com

Villeroy & Boch is set to debut a mix of brand-new collections and extensions to existing best-sellers during the New York Tabletop Show in April. The new collections that will be showcased include Manufacture Rock Blanc glassware, a mix of stemware and drinking glasses made of high-quality crystal that features a chic, matte white gradient stem. The popular Boston glass collection will add two new colours for 2024, Saffron (an amber) and Berry (a fuchsia). In addition, Villeroy & Boch is introducing two new flatware collections, Liam and Leandra. Finally, adding on to their popular Crafted pottery-like dinnerware is the brand-new colour, Cotton, a calming beige featuring a reactive glaze that makes each piece of the collection one-of-akind. Villeroy & Boch will be showcasing line extensions to the following top-rated collections, including Lave (pitchers, dip bowls, and more) and Boston Glass (new drinkware and bowls).

Fortessa

Floor 9 - 30 W 26th St

www.fortessa.com

Visit the Fortessa/Zwiesel Glas showroom in NYC to see the brand’s complete range of glassware including the Zwiesel Glas Handmade Collection, the Cloud Terre Collections of which Collection No. 3 is the latest. You’ll also find the Fashion Glass series which includes Jupiter, Archie, Debutante (pictured) and Noho.

Certified International

Floor

10

www.certifiedinternational.com

Certified International’s new French Bee Collection brings an oldworld charm to your table setting, combining the elegance of Frenchinspired motifs with the rustic charm of countryside beekeeping. Carefully sculpted 3D serveware and accessories perfectly complement these beautiful plates. See them at the New York Tabletop Show.

New York Tabletop Show

Riedel

Floor 8

www.riedel.com

This season, Riedel will display its Grape@Riedel collection, which is available in a trio of sizes – Cabernet/Merlot (which can also be used for cocktails), Pinot Noir/Aperitivo, and Riesling/Spritz Drinks. Grape@Riedel introduces the concept of multi-purpose glasses that are perfect for serving both an array of wines and other beverages and cocktails. Also new are optically designed, limited additions to Riedel’s portfolio of Amadeo decanters, including the Riedel Amadeo Magnum Decanter and two new colourful styles, the Riedel Amadeo Phyllon and Luminance Decanters. Riedel also introduces the versatile, easy-to-use Veloce Decanter, which can be used for a variety of wines and other beverages. Riedel will reintroduce its Key To Wine Red Set, which is thoughtfully designed to accentuate the characteristics of wines from thin-skinned, medium-skinned, and thick-skinned grapes, offering an unparalleled tasting experience.

The Rayware Group

Floor 8

www.rayware.co.uk

The Rayware Group, formerly known as Typhoon Homewares, are excited to welcome back visitors to its showroom during this year’s New York Tabletop Show. They will be showcasing everything their family of British Brands has to offer, from bestsellers to exclusive new launches for spring summer 2024.

Kilner will be displaying the new Sifter Jar Set, a sleek and practical solution for storing and sifting ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, or icing sugar.

An elegant twist on a modern classic, Typhoon will be introducing the new Eden Collection. The collection boasts a contemporary apothecary style with neutral hues and contrasting dark-toned bamboo, a stylish dry food storage solution.

Gourmet Settings

Floor 15

www.gourmetsettings.com

At Gourmet Settings, they are constantly refining their flatware, ensuring it’s beautiful, perfectly balanced, and affordable. They are always innovating with production methods – finishing their premium stainless steel better and wasting less material. To design their exclusive, awardwinning patterns, their product designers do extensive research into how we eat and how we live. They know the ins and outs of dining and hosting and that flatware should be both practical and enjoyable to use. Visit their 41 Madison showroom to see the collection line-up.

Floor 14 Godinger.com

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The man behind the maximalist magic

A new collection by the Bjørn Wiinblad brand has been launched by the Rosendahl Design Group. A great artist with the heart of a true maximalist, Bjørn Wiinblad’s body of work has inspired some exceptional decorative collections from Rosendahl, the latest being Lady with Hat…

The details

As a series, Lady with Hat, covers the entire range of sizes, from the candleholder, which can also be used as a solitaire vase, to a special edition of a total of 35 numbered supersize vases. The unique and striking design is composed of three individual hand-painted parts that can be used separately. Its size is a clear reference to the Wiinblad universe, where ceramics were often used to furnish and not just decorate.

Bjørn Wiinblad was a man who embraced life. The acclaimed Danish artist was many things – a loyal friend, party animal, exceptional thinker, but possibly most relevant to us – the creator of a body of work which has inspired a new collection from Rosendahl called Lady with Hat.

Born in Copenhagen in 1918, amongst his many accolades, he was chief designer for Rosenthal from 1956 to 2006, owned seven houses – the most famous of them The Blue House in his birth town of Copenhagen which is now a museum dedicated to his life and works – and, was considered a dear friend of the rich and famous.

In short, he lived a very eccentric, very glamourous and exceptionally creative existence, fuelled by a passion for people and the beauty he saw around him. A true maximalist.

At the upcoming New York Tabletop Market, brand owners Rosendahl Design Group (not to be confused with Rosenthal for whom Wiinblad was creative director for 50 years) will be showcasing Lady with Hat, a new collection inspired by Wiinblad’s art.

The decorative series consists of two hand-painted vases and a candleholder, the motifs are direct descendants of Wiinblad’s original design and filled with the avant-garde style typical of his ceramics, making the look even more relevant today.

For brand-owner Rosendahl, growing awareness of Bjørn Wiinblad’s work in the US market is not a hard task. His collections

are already popular with buyers.

“We’re constantly increasing our engagement with key retailers and dedicating resources to accurately convey the narrative of this illustrious artist and wonderful designer,” explains CEO of Rosendahl Design Group US, Thomas MiangPerez. “In addition, we are in the process of introducing new and exciting pieces, including some large, hand-painted masterworks”.

In terms of buyers, the Bjørn Wiinblad brand aligns well with retailers focused on gifting and home decor.

“Our products are well-distributed across a variety of platforms, from leading department stores to independent retailers nationwide, both online and in-store. We are also thrilled to see that the majority of our retailers are experiencing a very quick turnaround,” confirms Thomas.

Rosendahl has worked hard to ensure they have represented Bjørn Wiinblad’s extraordinary character and body of work accurately. They are more than aware of his legacy and the importance of honouring his artistic prowess.

“Bjørn Wiinblad was an extraordinarily versatile artist, proficient in a wide range of materials and product categories.

Having visited his Danish residence in Lyngby near Copenhagen on multiple occasions, I believe our product line serves as an excellent representation of his diverse body of work, capturing the essence of his artistic spirit,” says Thomas.

Lady with Hat: The collection explained

Thomas Miang-Perez, CEO of Rosendahl Design Group US, tells TI more about the latest Bjørn Wiinblad collection, Lady with Hat...

“The latest collection, named Lady with Hat, is a nod to the era of maximalism. This collection includes two hand-painted vases and a candleholder, all of which epitomise Wiinblad’s affection for flamboyant hats and vivid decorations. Each item embodies the legacy of this multifaceted artist, showcasing women embellished with large hats and striking patterns, each bearing bouquets that highlight their distinctiveness. Moreover, a standout piece in this collection is a one-meter-tall vase, a coveted item for collectors. These pieces are not just decorative; they tell stories, merging seamlessly with contemporary decor while paying homage to their retro origins.”

“We’re constantly increasing our engagement with key retailers and dedicating resources to accurately convey the narrative of this illustrious artist and wonderful designer”

Thomas Miang-Perez, Rosendahl Design Group US

In a new series, we profile some of the greatest designers to have graced the tableware industry with their talents. First up, Hermann Gretsch – the man who designed Form 1382 for Arzberg and Form 98 for Schönwald – both of which are still in production today…

The man, the myth, the legend

Architect, engineer, designer –Hermann Gretsch was a man for whom attention to miniscule detail was a way of life rather than a thing that must be done.

Responsible for designing one of Arzberg’s longest-standing collections – Form 1382 (which is still in production today) – Hermann Gretsch also designed the 1937 Form 98 for Schönwald, which, remarkably, is also still in production.

Born in 1895, Gretsch trained as an architect before studying ceramics at the Kunstgewerbeschule in Stuttgart under Bernhard Pankok, from 1922 to 1923. He completed a doctoral thesis on ‘technical features of South German fayence manufacture in 1928. In 1931 he became artistic adviser to Arzberg at the instigation of Fritz Kreikemeier, director of the factory, and Heinrich Schindhelm,

representative of the Kahla Konzern, an association of five Bavarian porcelain factories.

“Hermann Gretsch played a pioneering role in practical, managerial and advisory functions

Form 1382 Blaublüten

“Alongside Wilhelm Wagenfeld, he was the most important German industrial designer. He was able to establish himself as a pioneer and protagonist of modern porcelain in the field of mass-produced

“It is interesting to note that Bernd Dibbern, who had an exceptionally good eye, sold this design in a wonderful range of colours for many years.”

Robin Levien discussing a Gretsch-designed coffee set for Schönwold

in the realisation of the modern design of industrial products,” says Petra Werner, senior curator and head of the department of art and cultural history of porcelain, Staatliches Museum für Porzellan.

utility porcelain.”

As a young designer, Robin Levien of Studio Levien, found himself inspired by a man who he describes as “one of the greatest form makers of the 20th century”.

Robin Levien on Hermann Gretsch

“He was one of the giants of design whose shoulders I wanted to stand on. Gretsch’s idea about the longevity of good design is so incredibly relevant now, nearly 100 years later, as we grapple with global warming and climate change. I sometimes see the word “timeless” in a design brief and I always challenge this as all design is of its time.

Dr Hermann Gretsch’s greatest achievement as a designer is that he has come close to producing timeless design.”

Hermann Gretsch (1895-1950)

The Design Greats

Form 1495

“Dr Hermann Gretsch’s designs speak to me of a man who was quite restrained and passionate about detail,” Robin tells TI. “The wonderful portrait of him in the hat might challenge the restraint idea but clearly he was more preoccupied by the size of cups than the size of hats!

“He studied architecture during the 1920s and embraced the aesthetic spirit of the Bauhaus from which the modernist maxim of “form follows function” emerged. Gretsch stands out as a master of this ethos, his designs are pared down to the point where only the essential remains.”

When he designed Form 1382 for Arzberg, he achieved a “stroke of genius”, says Petra Werner. “The shape shows the most important characteristics of well-designed objects for Gretsch: simplicity, honesty and clarity. His work is linked to the overall economic situation. For Gretsch, industrial designers had to be artists, technicians and businessmen at the same time. Economic aspects could not be neglected. He created “The Timeless Form”: plain, simple, practical and beautiful at the same time. Hermann Gretsch always remained the same in his work. It is timeless in the best sense of the word.”

With the beating heart of a true designer, Gretsch – the trained

architect – dabbled in all types of construction from building houses to designing furniture. But it was ceramics which truly captured his minimalist imagination.

Along with the already mentioned Form 1382 for Arzberg and Form 98 for Schönwald, Gretsch also designed ceramic products such as the Freia coffee and tea service and the Form 3480 for Villeroy & Boch.

“He also designed drinking glasses for Josephinenhütte and Vereinigte Lausitzer Glaswerke, and cutlery for C. Hugo Pott in Solingen,” Petra says, adding: “Form 1495 from Arzberg was also successful. For example, it was awarded a Grand Prix, the highest honour, at the Milan Triennale in 1940.”

Casting his informed designer’s eye over Gretsch’s work, Robin Levien agrees with the beauty in Form 1382, describing it simply as “one of the greatest tableware designs of the 20th century”.

Robin continues: “It is simple, yet has a strong personality, the shapes and proportions have a rightness about them that might appear easy to achieve but for sure require artistry and skill. Whilst the Form 1382 is widely recognised as Gretsch’s best design for Arzberg, he also designed Form 1495 which is a much rounder friendlier shape than 1382 but it hasn’t stood the

Form 1382

Form 1382

“Alongside Wilhelm Wagenfeld, he was the most important German industrial designer.”

Petra Werner, senior curator, Staatliches Museum für Porzellan

test of time quite so well as the iconic 1382.”

As further testament to Gretsch’s designs, Robin adds: “Also, in porcelain Gretsch designed a coffee set for Schonwold NV17, 21,45. It is interesting to note that Bernd Dibbern, who had an exceptionally good eye sold this design in a wonderful range of colours for many years.”

Robin also mentions Gretsch’s work with Carl Pott; “his design Pott 81 looks as good today as when he designed it”, and his drinking

glasses for Graflich Schalfgot; “the lovely wide foot and the slightly turned-out rim carry the hallmarks of the artistry and craft of Dr Hermann Gretsch”.

Hermann Gretsch passed away in 1950, leaving behind him a remarkable body of work. To be a creator is a wonderful thing, but to be a creator whose work is still in production, and is still relevant today – nearly 75 years after your death – is quite something special.

RIP Hermann Gretsch, one of the great creative minds.

Schönwald’s

NEW DESIGN CINCO

With Ambiente 2024 wrapped up for another year, Thomas Kastl, director Ambiente Dining, talks to Tableware International about the successes of the show....

Looking back at Ambiente 2024

Thomas, congratulations on Ambiente 2024 – was it a successful show for Messe Frankfurt?

“To welcome strong international brands back again on the Frankfurt fairgrounds, like Royal Tableware, is truly rewarding”

Thomas Kastl, director Ambiente dining

It was, indeed. Messe Frankfurt has just seen its biggest trade fair in its history on the Frankfurt exhibition grounds. And once more, Ambiente has cemented its position as the most relevant business platform for the non-food sector. Hence, seen from the company angle, we can be happy. But, of course, there’s another perspective

that matters even more: our participants. I am glad to say that also from their point of view, the latest trade show was great. In Ambiente Dining, we have strengthened the segment for the hospitality

industry. The internationality and the quality of visitors were exceedingly high. Thus, we managed to open up a wealth of new business opportunities for manufacturers and retailers alike, and these mirrored to us that this worked out very well. It was business we celebrated together.

What has feedback from exhibitors in the Dining section been like?

Just let me take some examples. Internationally leading manufacturers like Villeroy & Boch underlined the importance of Ambiente as an international business hub. It gives them the opportunity to meet many of their international partners, from Australia to Mexico, within a very short space of time - an exchange that would not have been possible without the trade fair, as Villeroy & Boch underlined. But also, for expanding brands like Aarke, a Swedish manufacturer, presenting themselves at Ambiente is key. They have pointed out that Ambiente helped them to establish contacts with potential sales partners all over the world, especially in the premium segment. They got in touch with high-quality, independent retailers, which would otherwise be challenging to identify. As the

Did the HoReCa Academy work, in your view? In terms of where it was, space and design layout? It definitely did. As you might remember, we had taken the HoReCa Academy out of hall 11.0 and moved it into the foyer. This smart relocation was very well received by everyone involved – the audience, the keynote speakers and our exhibitors. On the one hand, we could offer the free hall space to the latter to present themselves in a highquality environment. On the other hand, the Academy did not have to compete for attention with exhibitors’ stands but enjoyed even greater visibility in the foyer, allowing visitors to stop by and benefit from the presentations held there. The new, open design also made this educational place very inviting to those who happened to be

exhibitor Novissa put it – Ambiente is a door opener.

passing by. The latest HoReCa Academy was a great success.

From your own point of view, what were the major positives from the show?

Looking back, the new concept as the one-stop-shop for the global consumer goods industry that we had established last year, worked out once more –and with even more impact. To welcome strong international brands back again on the Frankfurt fairgrounds, like Royal Tableware, is truly rewarding as it shows that the trade fair concept is convincing. The Zwiesel Fortessa Group not only returned but presented their consumer product line for the first time together with their own HoReCa brand. The adjustments we had made have proven right, for example relocating all fringe programme items into the foyers and, in doing so, creating more space for exhibitors. Moreover, it was a forward-looking move

to strengthen the focus on the hospitality sector and linking it more closely to contract business. The industry reflected that our plan to create new business opportunities for them has

It goes without saying that we keep a keen eye and open ear on how we can make the trade fair the best possible business event for all our participants. Therefore, we are always in close and constant touch with them to check

“The internationality and the quality of visitors were exceedingly high”

worked out. The positive feedback that your year-round work has ultimately paid off for all the ones you have done it for makes us happy. So, we are all looking forward confidently to the trade fair trio next year.

Have any changes been suggested to you by exhibitors? Or is there anything organisers might look to change or amend for 2025?

Finally, what was your own personal favourite moment from Ambiente 2024?

Difficult question - there are so many wonderful moments, big and small, that I enjoy at every single Ambiente fair. One of them at Ambiente 2024 was the Tableware International’s 2024 Awards of Excellence ceremony. I had the pleasure to present the Lifetime Achievement Award 2024. The laureate Lou Scala is a pioneer and innovator, a visionary

if everything is “right on track”. This is what we do on a regular basis already during the fair as some of our routines in the best sense of the word. Accordingly, it is quite easy to tweak minor adjustments if necessary. And about any possible major optimalisations we will inform from September onwards.

who forged smart collaborations between fashion brands and the global homewares business and who has been taking tableware brands to new hights. It was an honour for me to present the award and to meet so many inspiring people at the event who share the passion for this business.

Don’t forget!

The next edition of Ambiente will take place from 7-11 February, 2025.

“Let’s celebrate business and creativity together – that was the vibe at the show where Ambiente, Christmas World, and Creative World came together for a triple treat. Sure, it felt like the turnout wasn’t as massive as it was in 2023 when everyone was eager to get back after Covid, but hey, the big shots still showed up! And boy, was there inspiration aplenty! Whether you’re into setting up your tabletop, jazzing up your home, or getting cozy with textiles, there was something for everyone. We spotted three cool trends:

■ Feeling the vibes of “Aura of Progress” – mixing visionary stuff with down-to-earth feels.

■ Digging the chill vibes of “Quality of Silence” – keeping it simple and comfy.

■ Getting artsy with “Spirit of Craft” – bold moves with a poetic twist.

Oh, and eco-friendly was the buzzword! Soft, muted colours ruled the scene, and matte finishes were everywhere you looked. Reactive glazes were still a thing, but everyone was talking about coupé shapes stealing the show. And, can we talk about the textures? Ridged, scalloped, swirled – you name it, it was there! From vases to cushions, everything had a touchable vibe that made you want to reach out and feel the artistry.”

Rachel Dietrich, senior director eCommerce, over & back, gives the company’s impression of Ambiente 2024…

Ambiente 2024: The review

With the doors closed on Ambiente 2024, Tableware International speaks with visitors and exhibitors to find out how they viewed one of the key showcases in the industry’s tradeshow diary…

Spotted at Ambiente!

Poemi’s new Origen Collection launches at Ambiente, inspired by traditional objects

Launched at Ambiente, Poemi’s Origen Collection is inspired by the works of visionary Constantin Brancusi (the Endless Column, the Table of Silence, the Stool, the Cup), and by the traditional Romanian objects from the founders’ childhood (the small three-legged table, the bench, the Romanian traditional shingle, the wooden bucket, the honeycomb).

Not only a visual delight, but also a tactile experience, each piece is meticulously handcrafted from terrazzo stoneware, infusing a sense of warmth and authenticity into every object.

Boasting a dual functionality, each piece can serve as both a decorative object and an exquisite addition to fine dining experiences, ideal for presenting amuse-bouche in upscale restaurants.

Wilmax shines at Ambiente

Wilmax unveiled thousands of cutting-edge products at Ambiente, all hosted in the company’s expansive 170-square-meter stand. Their signature furniture range – including dining chairs and armchairs – proved to be a highlight, as did the Monolith (pictured) and Embossed collections which were joined by glassware and cutlery.

“We participated in Ambiente across two halls: Hall 11.0 for our hospitality brands - CHIC, Fine2Dine, and BonBistro; and Hall 3.0 for our retail brands - Salt&Pepper, S|P Collection, and ONA. Ambiente stands out as one of the premiere fairs for our company, alongside events like Maison&Objet and Host Milano. Its international appeal provides an excellent platform to showcase our products to potential clients, as well as reconnecting with existing customers and suppliers. Beyond a strong German contingent, we observed significant attendance from the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, China, India, and various other countries. Once again, we garnered numerous new leads, positioning us for future growth and expansion of our company and brands.”

Question corner

Mariana

Boatto,

&

Timo Ooms, senior product & purchase manager, Fine Dining & Living

The Polish Porcelain Group (Ćmielów & Chodzież) attended Ambiente and were thrilled with the reception to their novelties.

“Over the course of the five days, amazing Ambiente was the gift that kept on giving! 2024 had a lot to live up to after the unprecedented buzz of 2023, and it did so in buckets. The key word for us is ‘quality’ and the profile of visitors to our stand delivered on this, over and over. We had strong brand stories to tell, including new products and a new category in KitchenAid, new designer collaborations in Mikasa and new eco-friendly on-the-go solutions in La Cafetière. The show delivered on inspiration, orders and networking in a vibrant and impressive atmosphere. The highlight for us was the overwhelming positivity to our brands and new innovations. Being able to present and share our plans for 2024 and beyond to key retailers from across the world on our incredible stand was simply brilliant. We are so, so excited about what’s coming next, Ambiente has left us feeling unstoppable! So watch this space!”

Claire Budgen, commercial & marketing director, Brands Europe

sales

marketing

director,

Wilmax Europe and Americas, tells us about the company’s take on Ambiente 2024

How was Ambiente 2024 for your company?

Ambiente 2024 was a significant milestone for Wilmax, marking our 10th year of participating in this renowned trade show. The overall impact of this year’s show aligns with the high standards set by previous years. We are optimistic that the positive momentum observed during the event will translate into favourable business for our company.

In terms of positives, what worked well at the show? What were you pleased with?

In terms of positives, our highlight at the show was the introduction of an extensive array of new products set to launch in 2024. We’ve expanded every existing product range at Wilmax with exciting new items. The feedback from both our current and potential clients has been exceptionally positive, reinforcing our confidence in the success and appeal of these new offerings.

Do you feel anything could be improved or changed?

We observed that this year there were not so many visitors from Africa or Latin American countries. Despite a consistent interest in our products across various countries from these regions, it seemed that the countries from these regions with substantial growth potential were underrepresented.

What were your thoughts on the layout of the halls/were you happy with your stand position? Certainly, we were happy with our stand position, strategically located in the main hall dedicated to our type of products. This positioning allowed us to maximize visibility and engagement, contributing to a positive overall experience at the event.

Were you happy with the quality of visitors/ buyers to your stand?

We were generally satisfied with the quality of visitors and buyers at our stand. Ambiente consistently draws decision-makers, ensuring a high standard of its outreach. However, there is an ongoing opportunity to expand and diversify by attracting visitors from new countries.

From speaking with colleagues in other companies, what is the overall feeling in the industry at the moment?

There are a lot of problems in the world, creating turbulence and reflecting on businesses. Despite these challenges, there is a collective optimism and hope at Wilmax for growth in the coming year. In alignment with this positive outlook, we’ve introduced one of the most extensive expansions of our product collections in years, anticipating and preparing for the growth ahead.

“Ambiente was a great all-round event for Utopia. We used it to launch our spring portfolio, which includes over 500 new products, so it was important for us that the show was a success!

In fact, it was a vibrant exhibition, very well attended and giving both exhibitors and visitors the opportunity to really connect with colleagues old and new from the whole industry. We saw a good mix of people from right across our international customer base, along with a wide selection of different operators. Of course, a show like Ambiente is hard work but it’s incredibly well worth it and, as well as being a proper business forum, it’s genuinely enjoyable, too.”

Josh Rammell, marketing manager, Utopia Tableware

Leanne van Doleweerd, sales & project manager, Heinen Delfts Blauw tells TI about the company’s first ever Ambiente

How was Ambiente 2024 for your company?

This year was our first year at Ambiente. We were located in Hall 12 where the focus was on new tabletop collections. It was a very interesting experience. It was more international than we expected, not only was there a German market, but also an American, Asian and Eastern European market too. Our collections were well received and it was great to be able to present our company here in this way.

In terms of positives, what worked well at the show? What were you pleased with? Do you feel anything could be improved or changed?

We experienced Ambiente as a very strong organisation. Everything was taken care of and in a very clear, structured way. We were very pleased with how everything was arranged.

What were your thoughts on the layout of the halls/ were you happy with your stand position?

We were located in Hall 12, which wasn’t the ideal match for us. The focus in Hall 12 was mainly on tabletop and our company has so much more to offer than just tableware. Also, Hall 12 had a slow start. It took a while before it got busy. People had a tendency to start and stay in Hall 3 for a while before they made their way over to Hall 12. So it would be our wish to have a stand in Hall 3 next year so that we can focus better on our entire collection instead of just on our tableware. Were you happy with the quality of visitors/ buyers to your stand?

We were very positive about the quality of the visitors to our stand. There were quite a lot of large buyers and they are exactly the sort of buyer we are looking for.

Noritake make return to Ambiente after four years

Noritake returned to Ambiente in January after a four-year absence and featured no fewer than seven new releases, covering several different styles and themes.

This included the popular Conifere design in three stunning hand-dipped pastel colours. Previously only available in white with an embossed striped linear band, the blue, pink and yellow variations have a classical elegance about them, while being great for use every day (they are dishwasher and microwave

Did you know?

safe). They were extremely eye catching on the stand and attracted a lot of interest from customers. In general, pastels were a trend that was visible throughout Ambiente, across numerous categories. This type of handdipped colour reflects a shift within the Noritake Group towards a more organic style of product allowing them to tap into the growing trend towards ‘handmade’ and opening new opportunities for the brand.

The uber cool Resta tea/coffee range also

Noritake’s new Resta collection is made from 20 per cent recycled porcelain – a first for the company

attracted a lot of attention in Frankfurt. Made in Japan to the highest quality specs, Resta features minimalistic Scandinavian style design and subdued matte colours.

Tradition and Innovation in knive ’s manufacturing

Leona Lek, global head of sales & product development, Luzerne, gives an honest overview of the company’s Ambiente experience

How was Ambiente 2024 for your company?

Ambiente 2024 proved to be a positive and beneficial experience for our company, although we observed a noticeable drop in traffic, likely influenced by Host Milan in October 2023. Many visitors who attended Host did not make it to Ambiente. Despite this, we connected with potential customers and gained valuable insights into the current market trends. While we didn’t surpass all our goals, we managed to generate several leads and secured a handful of promising partnerships.

In terms of positives, what worked well at the show? What were you pleased with?

We were particularly pleased with the positive response to our newly added products in the Lek line. The display at our stand was a hit with visitors, and our team did a fantastic job engaging with potential customers. We had many fruitful conversations with potential buyers who appreciated the uniqueness of Lek and WoodFire.

Do you feel anything could be improved or changed?

What were your thoughts on the layout of the halls/ were you happy with your stand position?

The layout of the halls was functional, and we were pleased with our stand position in Hall 11.0. It provided excellent visibility and easy access for visitors. However, we noticed a shift in emphasis, with retail booths being smaller and less impressive, reflecting the industry’s evolving focus.

While the overall experience was positive, improvements could be made in terms of event logistics and communication. The drop in traffic could be addressed by exploring ways to mitigate the impact of concurrent industry events.

“For Amefa, Ambiente has been an incredibly successful show this year. After a relatively slow 2023 show, we were pleased to welcome a very large number of new, and existing, customers. We welcomed guests from over 26 countries which shows the international importance of the Ambiente. While in 2023, many customers were still hesitant to place orders on the spot we noticed that the mood is far more positive, and customers are willing to commit to purchases on the spot.Confidence seems to have returned with many retailers, which is a positive sign.

We presented a completely new booth in 2024 featuring novelties for both our retail and our foodservice collection, which worked well for us. We presented recycled flatware sets, as well as great alternatives for single use plastics. The latter gained a lot of attraction from (potential) customers but especially from the international press core. Replacement of single use plastics is a topic in many countries nowadays and Amefa has developed two lines, which are fully recyclable, to replace the single use plastics.”

Eduard Bakker, managing director, Amefa BV

Were you happy with the quality of visitors/ buyers to your stand?

While the visitor traffic was good, we would have liked to see more key decision-makers and industry influencers. The drop in attendance from those who attended Host Milan may have contributed to this.

From speaking with colleagues in other companies, what is the overall feeling in the industry at the moment?

The industry is currently in a state of transition, with some companies experiencing growth while others face challenges. The overall sentiment is mixed, with both optimism and uncertainty present. The impact of concurrent events and the shift in emphasis towards smaller retail booths have been common discussion topics among industry peers.

“The 2024 edition of the Ambiente trade fair did not fail in its reputation as the world’s leading trade fair for home furnishings, particularly tableware. It is always exciting to meet professionals from other countries and support them in discovering our products. Many potential customers stopped by our booth to tell us about their projects and discover our product ranges; kitchen knives, table knives and not forgetting the forks, spoons, paring and service sets, barbecue sets, corkscrews and champagne sabers. We felt people were able to discover the excellence of La Maison Claude Dozorme products. This Ambiente seems to be a reflection of a year that aims to be promising.”

Didier Perret, président – CEO, Claude Dozorme

Review Ambiente

Caterina Bernabino, head of international sales retail – Sambonet Paderno Industrie, Arcturus Group, on how Ambiente went for the group

How was Ambiente 2024 for your company?

In general, expectations for our group this year have been met. We saw a lot of partners and we’ve been extremely busy with our customers, agents, distributors, especially the first three days, and bit less on Monday and Tuesday.

In terms of positives, what worked well at the show? What were you pleased with?

Beyond business performance, it is essential for us to meet our partners and loyal customers, as well as to get in touch with the market, including the challenge of facing our competitors. It was important to us to show our novelties and, as usual, our creative team did a great job. Among the products we introduced, was new Arthur Krupp plates designs, the innovative Sambonet and Arthur Krupp Radici Home Collection for table and outdoor, and Neutra, the new cutlery collection by Sambonet. Its launch is also part of the new brand storytelling introduced for the first time during Ambiente: “The best for your guest”.

Do you feel anything could be improved or changed?

We feel still a bit confused in the disposition of our hall, not a clear difference, like in the past and, due to the lack of branding, the distinction among retail and hospitality can create some confusion.

What were your thoughts on the layout of the halls/ were you happy with your stand position?

Beside some of the brands, I have to say the level of the competitors in our hall were still quite slow, you need to bring back again important German brands.

Were you happy with the quality of visitors/ buyers to your stand?

Yes. Interesting also the numbers of new prospects that look like the highest in the past few years. Among the contacts collected in Ambiente some will definitely bring us some new business.

From speaking with colleagues in other companies, what is the overall feeling in the industry at the moment?

Tableware in general is facing a very challenging period with lower orders and a general worldwide situation still affected by incertitude. But the mood of our partners is positive, we are confident that the pack of brands, variety of products and finishes, and different price positioning will lead us to maintain very good visibility with our main partners worldwide.

Question corner

Francisco Braga, CEO, Mesa Ceramics speaks about the postive energy at the show but says he is glad to see a return to February dates for 2025

How was Ambiente 2024 for your company?

Ambiente was a great show for us and although there were fewer visitors and less movement in the hall, we believe those who came to see us were focused and determined to do business. So, overall, we can say Ambiente was a very successful show. We had the opportunity to show a new range of sustainable and innovative products as well as our new collection focusing on new colours, new designs and decors, which we believe was crucial to get the attention of those who were there.

We came to Ambiente after winning the German Design Award 24 and being nominated for the Tableware International Awards of Excellence in the Hospitality Dinnerware category, with a project, a new vitreous body in stoneware for isostatic pressing, which was really a challenge for the Mesa team and a tremendous success, so the feeling was amazing. We could feel that the energy was positive and people felt welcomed at our stand, which ended up having great impact on the amount of people who actually took a bit of their time to come to us.

In terms of positives, what worked well at the show? What were you pleased with?

We believe that being in Hall 12.0 with other manufacturers is a big plus for us, since the visitors who are there wander the halls already knowing they can find what they’re looking for makes them more prone to initiate contact with us and start a connection. Our customers come to us with no doubts about our production capacity and the quality of our products. It’s also important to have the “HoReCa” label highlighted on our stand, because for those who don’t know us yet, it’s a way of understanding that we have products that are mainly designed for retail, but we are also very competent in the HoReCa business.

Do you feel anything could be improved or changed?

We don’t think it was a good idea to change the date of Ambiente to January, as this probably had a negative impact on customers who travelled to Maison&Objet and could not go directly to another fair. So, moving it back to February for next year seems like a good decision.

What were your thoughts on the layout of the halls/ were you happy with your stand position?

Yes, we were very happy with our location in 2023, so we wanted to keep the same space this year. It seems to us that we benefit from being among other porcelain stoneware manufacturers because we are able to show our great productive capacity, our quality and our product differentiation. In order to reaffirm this, we have asked for an increase in the size of our stand, because we wanted to be able to highlight our innovations and have our own reserved area.

Were you happy with the quality of visitors/buyers to your stand?

Last year, with so many people wanting to talk to our team and see our products, we didn’t have a minute to spare. This year we felt that there were fewer visitors at Ambiente, but fortunately all our customers visited and we were able to meet new ones and close some very important deals at Ambiente. We could say that those who visited us were more focused and wanted to close deals at the show to get their products as soon as possible.

From speaking with colleagues in other companies, what is the overall feeling in the industry at the moment?

Everyone we spoke to at Ambiente shared the feeling that there were fewer visitors than last year. While many of them felt positive because the visitors they had were very qualified and interested in their products, other producers felt a bit down because the deals were not as good, especially given the expectations they had for this fair. We believe last year’s fair had set the bar very high, and the fact that Ambiente changed the date to January (close to Maison&Objet) didn’t help as we believe that some buyers weren’t able to attend both fairs.

Hel x Dune

Coated in reactive glaze, our Helix Dune Collec tion features a mix of brown and bronze splashes. Helix Dune provides a subtle and elegant look for the tabletop. With its elegant linear texture and unique details, it adds a unique air to the collection.

www.bybone.com

Rosenthal’s head of marketing & communication, Sandra Viertauer, gives the company’s take on Ambiente

How was Ambiente 2024 for your company?

This year’s Ambiente was once again an important start to the trade fair season for us. We had the opportunity to present ourselves as a relevant player in the retail and HoReCa sector in Hall 12.1. We were very satisfied with the flow of visitors to our stand and the internationality. We will only be able to measure the final success once we have a complete picture of the orders.

In terms of positives, what worked well at the show? What were you pleased with?

We received great feedback about the design and layout of our stand, even though it was only half the size, and about our new products. We were very pleased with our position in Hall 12.1, which seemed to suit us better than last year when we exhibited in the same hall but at the other end of it. The surrounding brands were a good fit with the neighbourhood and we found that there were not so many empty spaces and wide aisles.

Do you feel anything could be improved or changed?

The concept of the fair works well and the merging of Ambiente, Christmasworld and Creativeworld also seems to have created synergies. One change that should be considered would be to shorten the fair somewhat and only organise it over three or four full days. We noticed that there were far fewer visitors after Sunday. Also, putting the tabletop categories a little bit more central instead of being the very last hall of the exhibition ground would probably increase foot traffic and new customers even more.

Were you happy with the quality of visitors/buyers to your stand?

Question corner

Porcel’s president, Ana Luísa Roque gives her views on a successful Ambiente

How was Ambiente 2024 for your company?

As always, our team was very excited to take part in another edition of Ambiente, since it is always good to have the opportunity to meet our clients and also get to know new contacts. Although of this edition was different from the previous one, we still think it was very positive. In terms of positives, what worked well at the show? What were you pleased with?

Besides strengthening contact with clients and potential clients, what we appreciate about Ambiente is the creativity part of the whole show. It’s events like these that allow us to better analyse what is currently being created in the ceramics sector as well as to keep up with trends (Ambience/decoration). This year was no exception! One of the things we also found interesting was the distinction we received - Ethical Style by Ambiente. It shows that Porcel is aligned with the sustainability perspectives present in all industries.

We were mainly able to meet existing contacts and customers, but not really many new customers. As we were exhibiting in Hall 12 and with the tabletop segment at the very end of the exhibition centre, there weren’t many walk-in customers and therefore not that many new customers passing by. This applies mainly to the HoReCa segment, but also to retail.

From speaking with colleagues in other companies, what is the overall feeling in the industry at the moment?

This is difficult to say, since it varies a lot and is fragmented, depending on the concerning areas such as export in DACH, US, APAC, EMEA, and so on, and business model such as retail or HoReCa. But, overall, I am happy to say the industry seems to be a bit more optimistic than last year.

Do you feel anything could be improved or changed?

There is always space for improvement, but it’s up to the organisation to evaluate what is most advantageous among all the exhibitors. We continue to think the last day is increasingly irrelevant at the fair and that it could be very important in terms of the speed of response to requests coming from the fair.

What were your thoughts on the layout of the halls/ were you happy with your stand position?

As in the previous edition, we were present in “Table Select”, Hall 12.1. Despite some reorganisation of stands within the hall and with which we were a little apprehensive, in the end we were pleased with the whole change and restructuring. The Porcel stand stood out from the rest for its elegance and simplicity, with the new shades of green helping to highlight the new Lush Forest pieces and the new Corallyn collection. From what the team saw, the stand continues to spark a lot of interest among visitors, as do the collections. Beside our stand, we were also present at “Made in Portugal Naturally” stand, promoted by NERLEI, where we had two sets on display - Golden Velvet and Rouge. In addition, at the Herdmar stand, with some pieces from the Ballet OB

Were you happy with the quality of visitors/buyers to your

When we prepare for an event like Ambiente, we always have an agenda prepared with our clients. Even though there was less traffic than in the previous edition, we were still surprised and ended up collecting other new contacts, which we felt were of a very high quality.

From speaking with colleagues in other companies, what is the overall feeling in the industry at the moment?

We believe that, in general, one of the concerns is the current global economic situation. Besides this, sustainability is also a growing issue, both for consumers and for organisations.

thinkCommitment

Wow!

The Rosenthal stand was a hive of activity throughout the fair. Displaying their new products only, one of the ‘wow’ moments was this very impressive gold Rosenthal meets Versace Medusa piece. I’ll take one for the living room, please!

The perfect piece

The Vista Alegre stand was hugely impressive, and one of the standout displays was that of the new Still Life pieces. The perfect place to take moment’s breath amidst the busyness of Ambiente, and a glorious ode to Still Life’s craftsmanship.

Spotted at Ambiente

Ambiente; a whirlwind few days of business meetings, parties (the WMF stand was rocking, one memorable night in particular!), and scouring the halls for new product. Tableware International was on the ground throughout the entirety of the fair. Editor Mairead Wilmot walks you through a few favourite collections, and moments, from Ambiente 2024…

Black is trending

Black is seeing its star rise, and was a notable presence at the fair. While our trend columnist Donna Ferrari highlights the colourway on page 52 in this issue, matt black was particularly evident in Frankfurt. Ana Roquero’s Cookplay displayed some beautifully crafted pieces while ArdaCam showcased lovely black glassware front and centre on its stand. Bonna, too, put its black Graphite line on display.

Did you know?

Organisers Messe Frankfurt have dubbed the Consumer Goods Fair, of which Ambiente is part, “a festival of records”. A whopping 4,928 exhibitors presented their products to around 140,000 visitors.

Display perfection

Zieher has some perfectly perfect display options for the hospitality sector. One being the eye-catching Fleur Déco line which has been crafted as a tribute to the beauty of nature. This buffet tree boasts 10 golden leaves for culinary masterpieces and the series includes a three-tiered étagère and serving platter which boasts a decorative plant emerging from the centre. Very impressive indeed.

Ardacam

Cookplay

Bonna

Here comes the primary colourways!

Sure, black might be trending but let’s not let colour pass us by. The CapDeco stand played host to a new brand on the scene. Bursting with colour, this graphic print is from French brand Rev Paris, an inaugural collection from Erika Bendayan. The fresh, contrasting colourways are a joy to behold.

Brasserie

Vista Alegre, of course, had super displays on their stand with The Meaning’s bold primary colourways making maximum impact while Futurismo was also there amping up the colour quota. Porland’s Funky series was a real eyecatcher. Taking its inspiration from the art of collage, there were colours aplenty – think greens, blues and purples – decorating the exterior of the pieces while the well of the plate is decorated with an assortment of motifs.

The Royal Goedewaagen display was a joy to behold with ceramics in multiple colourways – pinks, yellows, blues, greens and reds – stood out from the Dutch heritage brand who have been making ceramics since 1610, no less.

Villeroy & Boch also made sure to embrace the trend for graphic motifs with the latest iteration of La Boule. The German giant has hit the right note with this joyful motif on La Boule Miami, the latest in their iconic series.

Finally, you’ll surely have noticed coloured glass is going nowhere and Vidivi are taking it a step further with their new High Vibes collection which attracted lots of attention from buyers in Frankfurt – love the classic jewel tones.

Oh, if we must!

Crystalex hosted a fantastic cocktail evening to celebrate their new collection. A favourite of the TI team was this impressive Elderflower Martini served in Crystalex’s Praline glasses. The line was inspired by the aesthetics of a freshly opened box of chocolates.

– Dibbern’s collaboration with Anna Pascher, a contemporary artist from Düsseldorf – is an example of what can be achieved when both parties are of extraordinary ability. Anna’s motifs are a celebration of table scenes which are artfully transcribed onto porcelain for Dibbern’s Brasserie collection. A true representation of the artist’s work, the bistro series combines both Dibbern’s and Anna Pascher’s passion for table settings.

By luck, Dibbern tells us the use of navy blue in the collection not only reflects the artist’s preferred hue, but also ties in with the traditional use of blue in porcelain painting. A real standout, loved it!

Creative thinking at Steelite

The Steelite stand – as expected – was a hive of activity, but TI managed to catch up with acclaimed designer Maham Anjum who showed us her latest collection. She is seen here talking with TI’s Paul Yeomans

Lovely lights!

Utopia’s new collection of cordless LED table lights had a large display area on their impressive stand with marketing manager Josh Rammell telling TI they were proving popular with buyers looking for more cost-effective ways of lighting hospitality venues.

Royal Goedewaagen

Porland

Villeroy & Boch

Vidivi

Rev Paris

Vista Alegre

The best of the best…

The 2024 Tableware International Awards of Excellence took place on Sunday, 28 January. Here, we celebrate the fantastic winners and honour the incredible collections which reigned supreme

The 2024 Tableware International Awards of Excellence took place during Ambiente. A total of fifteen winners were celebrated at the awards which were held on Sunday, 28 January.

There were three finalists per category: serveware, barware, flatware/ cutlery, casual glassware, fine glassware, decorative, coffee/teaware, metals, hospitality dinnerware, hospitality glassware, casual dinnerware, fine dinnerware and innovation plus two special awards – designer of the year and lifetime achievement award.

Hosted by Tableware International’s editor Mairead Wilmot and publisher Paul Yeomans, guests enjoyed a speech by Messe Frankfurt’s Thomas Kastl, Ambiente’s director of dining, followed by the announcement of the winners, who were chosen by an international panel of industry experts.

“Once again we were thrilled to host our annual Awards of Excellence,” says Tableware International’s Mairead Wilmot. “It is so encouraging to see so many decision makers take time out of their schedules to come to the event. It is also testament to how important is it to the industry to have an awards ceremony which is judged by peers. Our international judging panel really do dedicate a lot of time and effort to these awards and we truly appreciate them.”

–The judging panel includes; Valda Goodfellow, Jorge Perez, John O’Byrne, Walter Lowry, Michele Trzuskowski, Robin Levien, Donna Ferrari, Amos van Praagh, Dominique Tage, Wiebke Lehmann, Billy Lloyd, Martyn Lewis and Nick Holland. Sponsors of the event were Ambiente, Decorium while our category sponsors include: Kerajet, The Inspired Home Show, Crystalex, Krosno, ANDMORE, Sacmi, NY Now and Zuchex.

Turn the page to see pictures from the event.

Next year Ambiente 2025 takes place 7-11 February, 2025.

Rh

And the winners are…

Fine Dinnerware

Nymphenburg Lightscape Gold

Casual Dinnerware

ID Fine Modest Green

Serveware

Lauret Studio A La Folie

Barware

Kinshodo Lin Marble

Innovation

Narumi Moment Teapot

Cutlery/Flatware

David Mellor Designs Liner Cutlery

Fine Glassware

Orrefors Intermezzo Gold

Casual Glassware

RCR Cristalleria TIKI Glasses

Decorative Vista Alegre Still Life

Coffee/Teaware

Rig-Tig Drink It

Metals

Laguiole en Aubrac Laguiole Gourmet

Kitchen Knives

Hospitality Dinnerware

Revol Bombance

Hospitality Glassware

United Tables Fortessa Trevi

Designer of the Year

Charlie Martens, Studio Mattes

Lifetime Achievement Award Lou Scala, Portmeirion

Category Sponsor

Lifetime Achievement Award

Pictured receiving the award on behalf of Lou Scala at Tableware International’s Awards of Excellence was Bill Robedee, Portmeirion Group’s global sales director and president, North America. Thomas Kastl, director of dining at Ambiente, presented the award

Portmeirion Group USA’s Lou Scala wins Lifetime Achievement Award

Tableware International has named Lou Scala as its Lifetime Achievement Award winner for 2024. Lou Scala has been on the cutting edge of the tabletop industry for over 40 years and throughout that time has been a force for creative re-invention and forward thinking change in the category. Lou began his career at Bamberger’s Department Store in Newark in 1977 and then moved on to May Company in 1980. Over the next 17 years he rose to VP/ DMM of Decorative Home where he set the set the trends in the US and global markets in Fine China, Crystal, Silver, Gifts, Trim & Luggage, Stationary, and Candy and generated sales of over $400 million a year across all categories; not a small sum today, and an industry dominating force in the 1980s and 1990s.

When Lou took the helm at Lenox in 1997 he set about reinventing the iconic American China company. Carrying forward the trends he helped set at May Company Lou pioneered casual dinnerware at Lenox, and expanded the brand into multiple adjacent categories, not more China patterns but whole

home lifestyle collections across multiple categories became the order of the day. Lou successfully brought the fashion industry onto the table with the introduction of Kate Spade at Lenox and reinvigorated seasonal product at Lenox which came to dominate the holiday season table in the USA in those years.

In 2006 Lou moved on to take the role of President & CMO for Waterford Wedgwood USA and bought the casual and designer revolution to its iconic British, Irish, and German brands like Wedgwood, Waterford Crystal, and Rosenthal China. Notably he launched the Vera Wang collection at Wedgwood, and was a driving force in significant collaborations with Martha Stewart, Jaspar Conran, and many others. At all times Lou led the charge towards casual dining and creative lifestyle and seasonal offerings that broadened the scope of what was possible in our space.

Lou returned to a newly private Lenox in 2009 where he breathed new life into his Kate Spade franchise and continued to innovate new and exciting seasonal product before leaving

in 2014 to take over product development and sales at Nambe as CMO.

Nambe’s contemporary design vibe and unique brand story was a perfect environment for Lou to have full creative freedom to take the brand to a new level in stunning new mixed material designs, beautiful contemporary dinnerware and home decor, and

re-invigorated Spode Christmas Tree franchise, brought about the stunning new collaboration between Spode and Kit Kemp, brought new life to Portmeirion’s classic Botanic Garden franchise with innovative line extensions and new introductions, as well as continuing to be the driving force behind Nambe’s endless stream of creativity.

“I was honoured and thrilled to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from Tableware International. I have loved being in the tabletop industry and I am extremely grateful for my many years of success and for all the great friendships I’ve cultivated over the years. It truly has been a great ride!”

luxury modern holiday themes.

After Nambe was acquired by Portmeirion Group in 2019 Lou became CMO at Portmeirion Group USA where in collaboration with the Portmeirion team in the UK, Lou has bought the “Scala Touch” to an expanded and

A true merchant with the heart of a designer and the exacting standards of the most discerning consumer, Lou continues to delight and surprise the industry in 2024 with the same passion he bought to May Company way back in 1980.

CALYPSO

Designer of the Year

Charlie Martens of Studio Mattes is Tableware International’s Designer of the Year for 2024...

Charlie Martens of Studio Mattes was announced as Tableware International’s Designer of the Year during the 2024 Awards of Excellence held at Ambiente on Sunday, 28 January.

Charlie’s work has been described by members of our judging panel as mind-blowing, strong, new, influential, fresh and unorthodox.

“His is definitely a new approach,” several of our judges said. “His collection is most outstanding – there is nothing stronger on the market than his work when comparing it to other products made from stoneware. He is so new and fresh; he deserves a lot of attention!”

Charlie – who travelled to Ambiente to accept the award with his two sons Louis and Arthur – began working in the hospitality industry 20 years ago, distributing tableware, glassware and cutlery to restaurants and brasseries.

“Most of my clients were looking for innovative tableware and I helped them in their search,” he explains. Before long, Charlie began working with local potters and was inspired to start creating himself after spending hours in their studios.

“I started as an autodidact without any lessons or workshops – it was just as a hobby. I spent hours and hours reading and

experimenting – just trying to make the world a little more beautiful in my own way.”

Eventually Michelin-starred chefs began to take note and his work was picked up by the likes of Mauro Colagreco, Kobe Desramault and Jonnie Boer.

“Initially we began with stoneware ceramics and followed with wood. For the past four years Studio Mattes has also been creating tableware with mouth-blown glass,” Charlie tells us.

On accepting the award, Charlie credited his team at Studio Mattes for their talent and support, saying his work would not be possible without them.

“I am very honoured and grateful to receive this award from Tableware International. My gratitude goes out to the jury. This international recognition has a major impact on our studio, and encourages us to continue on doing what we are good at –making a difference with excellent designs for top chefs worldwide”

Charlie Martens, Studio Mattes, Tableware International’s Designer of the Year 2024

Fine Dinnerware

Nymphenburg wins with Lightscape Gold...

Nymphenburg’s Lightscape Gold wins Tableware International’s Fine Dinnerware category for 2024. TI’s Paul Yeomans accepted the award on the company’s behalf

Quality time is infinitely precious. Sharing stories, discussions, and laughter create memories that will remain in our minds and hearts forever. Spending afternoons by the fireplace in a snow-covered chalet, enjoying a leisurely family breakfast that extends into the afternoon, or coming together before an opera - preferences are as unique as each family. Should harmony, as we all know, be momentarily disrupted, fine porcelain subtly restores it.

Casual Dinnerware

ID Fine wins the Casual Dinnerware category with Modest Green...

Green stands out from other tableware collections with its unique features. Manufactured from strong and pure ivory-coloured fine porcelain, this collection boasts a stackable design, offering both durability and practicality. What truly sets it apart, however, is the striking hand-painted

rims in warm green. These rims serve as artistic frames, drawing attention to the food and creating a visually stunning contrast. The hand-painting process adds a distinctly human touch and artistry to each piece, making Modest Green truly unique in design and functionality.

“With over 50 years of experience, Porser Porselen’s brand ID Fine, created for the HoReCa industry, has achieved significant success despite being only a year old. The Modest Green collection, featuring hand-painted edges, being the first of its kind, has excited us all incredibly and has shown that we are taking the proper steps on this journey. We thank everyone who has deemed us worthy of this award”

Reha Tavil, VP sales & marketing, ID Fine

Modest

Serveware

Serveware was won by Lauret Studio’s A La Folie...

A La Folie is a tea-time display, designed by Richard Lauret, artist - designer for a French Executive Pastry Chef. A bespoke design, and tailor-made production. The piece is hand crafted and made in France. Silver and gold-plated bronze and brass, plus petals in Limoges porcelain.

Barware

Kinshodo’s Lin Marble wins the Barware category...

“After three years of continuous prototyping, the development of LIN Marble was a journey marked by setbacks for the dedicated staff at LIN Japan. This Tableware International Award of Excellence brings them immense joy, serving as a testament to their perseverance. It also signifies the global recognition of LIN Japan’s unique worldview, instilling us with great confidence for our future international endeavors”

Mr Shinji Kaneko, president, Kinshodo

Crafted from porcelain in Arita City, Japan, this creation draws inspiration from the ancient art of 9th-century Persian Lusterware. Employing the meticulous overglaze painting technique, they meticulously apply luster and a unique liquid before the final firing. This intricate process spanned a demanding three-year journey to completion, resulting in a truly exceptional range that blends history, artistry, and innovation.

Innovation

Narumi wins the Innovation category with the Moment Teapot

Narumi wins the Innovation category with the Moment Teapot. They were presented with the Award of Excellence by Leandro Pinheiro, manager, Kerajet Portugal

The moments of tea can become more valuable – with a teapot. It blends in well with everyday background, yet catches your eyes at certain points of time and invites you to appreciate every precious moment of tea.

thrilled that our innovation has won the award in the Innovation category!”

Narumi spokesperson

Cutlery/Flatware

David Mellor Designs wins the Cutlery/Flatware category with Liner Cutlery

Synonymous with elegant modern cutlery, David Mellor are delighted to introduce our new collection, Liner. Crafted by designer Corin Mellor, Liner has been three years in development. The range is an exciting new interpretation of the timeless glamour of early 20th century design.

The company was set up by David Mellor (1930 - 2009) CBE and Royal Designer for Industry. We have always specialised in metalwork and are particularly famous for our cutlery which is world renowned for its attention to detail and purity of design. Liner is perfectly in keeping with our finest traditions.

Made of high quality 18/10 stainless steel, the knives have high carbon steel blades for a superior cutting edge and hollow handles for excellent balance. Each piece feels pleasingly substantial and has a stylish satin finish. The pleasing decorative details are wonderfully tactile and subtly fade into the handle. The collection has been expertly created to suit both hospitality and domestic environments without compromise. A wonderful new cutlery design that continues an incredible legacy of tableware excellence.

Corin Mellor of David Mellor Designs accepting the award for Cutlery/Flatware from Ahmet Cigir Sahin, director, Decorium.

The David Mellor team who won Tableware International’s Award of Excellence for Cutlery/Flatware

Fine Glassware

Orrefors Kosta Boda wins the Fine Glassware category with Intermezzo Gold

In autumn 2023, Orrefors launched Intermezzo Gold by Erika Lagerbielke, to pay tribute to Orrefors’ 125th anniversary and a reinterpretation of the classic tableware series Intermezzo, first launched in 1985. The collection, at once timeless and contemporary, represents Orrefors’ unbeatable craftsmanship, quality and aesthetics.

Erika Lagerbielke and Orrefors’ skilled craftsmen in Småland, have long had the ambition to fill Intermezzo’s

characteristic bubble with gold pigment, instead of the traditional blue color. As the true perfectionists they are, the process has taken its time, but the result has definitely been worth the wait. Encased in the handmade, crystal-clear glass is now a matte drop that shimmers like gold – a classic shape injected with a new spark. All Intermezzo Gold glasses are mouthblown in Sweden by Orrefors’ skilled glassblowers.

Category Sponsor

“We’re honoured to be crowned with the Fine Glassware Award by Tableware International for our Intermezzo Gold collection. This modern take on our iconic collection Intermezzo was launched in 2023 to commemorate Orrefor’s 125th anniversary. It impeccably encapsulates the enduring sophistication and contemporary allure synonymous with Orrefors. Winning this award is a testament to our craftsmanship and commitment to quality and the artistic vision of Erika Lagerbielke, the mastermind behind this collection. We thank Tableware International for recognising our dedication to excellence. This accolade symbolises our passion for creating glassware that epitomises elegance and stands the test of time”

Emon Maasho, CEO, Orresfors

Kosta Boda

The Fine Glassware award went to Orrefors for Intermezzo Gold Remco Snoeck, export sales manager, was presented with the award by Michaela Horoskova, head of marketing, Crystalex

Casual Glassware

RCR Cristalleria is the winner of the Casual Glassware category with Tiki Glasses

“This prestigious award is a testament to the passion, dedication and talent of the entire RCR team. We are proud of this recognition. We will continue to strive to improve the performance, aesthetics and design of our offer, because we believe that quality of our products is the best form of respect for consumers”

Roberto Pierucci, CEO, RCR

Category Sponsor

17-19 MARCH 2024

These RCR Tiki glasses are the first in the world to be inspired by Italian culture. 100% Made in Italy and designed together with industry experts, the capacity is ideal for Tiki cocktails and more. Luxion® guarantees unrivaled transparency and resistance, while the deep decorations and the stackability of the glasses allows for an experience during service.

The Casual Glassware award went to RCR Cristalleria‘s TIKI Glasses Roberto Pierucci, CEO, RCR was presented with the award by Nancy Michael of The Inspired Home Show

2-4 MARCH 2025 | CHICAGO, USA

TheInspir edHomeSho w. co m

WHERE THE INDUSTRY CONNECTS AROUND INNOVATION AND INSPIRATION

Each March, the home + housewares industry gathers together at The Inspired Home Show Come to Chicago to experience everything that the Show has to o er – exhibitors from over 50 countries o ering the latest designs and innovations, informative educational sessions that focus on key industry trends, and ample networking opportunities spread across three full days!

Register in advance of the Show opening for free, and stay an extra day to participate in the free-of-charge Chicago Retail Tour after the Show! We look forward to seeing you in Chicago, 2-4 March 2025!

— DEREK MILLER, President & CEO, International Housewares Association

As a first-time visitor to The Inspired Home Show, I was absolutely thrilled with my experience. It was a feast for the senses with so many interesting products and services on display. The networking opportunities at the fair were unparalleled, and I left with a wealth of new contacts and potential business partners.

In addition to the exhibition, I attended several keynotes and other sessions, and came away from the fair feeling truly inspired and excited about the future of the housewares industry

— AARON THUO, Managing Director, Vituzote.com, Kenya

For more information and to register for your FREE entrance badge, please visit TheInspiredHomeShow.com.

Decorative

Vista Alegre won the Decorative category with Still Life

“This recognition is not just a testament to Vista Alegre’s efforts in launching more and more outstanding new pieces, but a celebration of the spirit that defines the brand in it’s pursuit for new paths of design. Creating beautiful and meaningful decorative porcelain pieces has been a labour of love of Vista Alegre team, and receiving this award is a moment of profound validation. I would like to express my gratitude to the esteemed panel of judges for recognising the intricate craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the creative vision that went into this piece. Behind every design lies a story, and Vista Alegre designers were inspired in the rich tapestry of

cultures, natural wonders, and the timeless elegance of porcelain itself. This award serves as motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity, innovation, and quality craftsmanship in the realm of decorative porcelain. As we celebrate the 200th anniversary of Vista Alegre, the brand/ company remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of excellence in design, ensuring that each piece continues to evoke emotion, captivate the imagination, and stand as a testament to the timeless beauty of decorative porcelain. Vista Alegre extends it’s heartfelt gratitude to Tableware International for its unwavering support and commitment to the world of design and decorative porcelain. It’s dedication to showcasing the latest trends, innovations, and creative endeavors within the tableware industry has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant and dynamic community.

Your platform serves as a valuable resource, connecting professionals, enthusiasts,

and artisans alike. Through your insightful articles, features, and coverage, you have played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of our industry, allowing us to share our passion and craftsmanship with a broader audience. The comprehensive and thoughtful coverage provided by Tableware International not only keeps us informed but also inspires us to push the boundaries of creativity and design.

Your platform has become a vital link, bringing together diverse perspectives and celebrating the artistry that defines the world of tableware and decorative porcelain.

Thank you, Tableware International, for being a beacon in the world of tableware and for your continued dedication to promoting excellence, innovation, and beauty in design.”

Carlos Costa, board member, Vista Alegre speaks about winning the Decorative award

Carlos Costa, board member, Vista Alegre collecting the Decorative award for Still Life. The award was presented by Decorium’s Çağla Şahin

The Vista Alegre team pictured after receiving the Decorative award for Still Life

Coffee/Teaware

Rig-Tig is the winner of the Coffee/Teaware category with Drink-It

Michael Ring, CEO Stelton, receiving the Tableware International Award of Excellence 2024 for the Coffee/Teaware category for Rig-Tig’s Drink-It

The Drink-It bottle is designed by Canadian Francis Cayouette who is educated in Montreal and Paris. He has been running his office Unit10 design, from Copenhagen since 1999. His design is characterized by a strong empathy for daily life with a feel for the industrial and functional aspects of design.

Drink-It is a true superhero in your backpack! With its clever screw cap, it’s a breeze for the whole family to open and close – no leaks here! The bottle has a capacity of 0.5 liters and weighs almost nothing, perfect for your adventures.

Whether you want to keep your favorite drink hot like a volcano or cold like an iceberg, Drinkit is the indispensable sidekick with its doublewalled thermos bottle trick.

And the best part? It’s made of recycled steel, so you can start your own sustainable adventure today and save the planet one sip at a time!

“We’re honoured to receive the 2024 Tableware International Award of Excellence with Drinkit from RIG-TIG. This recognition motivates us to maintain our commitment to innovative design. The recognition of our work is deeply appreciated”

Michael Ring, owner/CEO, Stelton

Metals

Laguiole en Aubrac is the winner of the Metals category with Collection of six Laguiole Gourmet kitchen knives

Kitchen knives are available in different wooden handles: boxwood, ebony, olivewood, teak, walnut, prune, maple and wenge.

The blade is made of Sandvik 14C28 stainless steel, which is a very high quality Swedish steel quite easy to sharpen.

The collection was developed in collaboration with the French designer Benjamin Auzier and knives are entirely handmade.

“This exclusive award testifies to the appreciation of experts in the field, for the excellence of our work. Much more than a trophy, this award strengthens our position as a reference in the world of cutlery, highlighting our commitment to innovation, quality and design. Receiving this award at the Ambiente show in Frankfurt, now the world’s leading consumer good trade fair, means that Laguiole en Aubrac is not only appreciated locally, but also acclaimed on the world stage. We are honoured and delighted to receive this Award of Excellence from Tableware International and hope to strengthen the trust our customers place in our brand and our products”

Christian VALAT, founder and CEO, Laguiole en Aubrac

Category Sponsor

The Metal category was won by Laguiole en Aubrac’s Gourmet Kitchen Knives. They were presented the Tableware International Award of Excellence by Indiria Franca, international business director, NY NOW

Hospitality Dinnerware

Revol is the winner of the Hospitality Dinnerware category with Bombance

The new Bombance line is an invitation to the pleasure of eating and of sharing a meal around a convivial object that brings people together: the cocotte. And who better than Inga Sempé with her love of classic brasserie cooking to rework this iconic object! Giving carte blanche to this famous designer, Revol reaffirms its attachment to its culinary culture by making the cocotte a centerpiece on the dining table.

The design’s originality lies in the lip that goes around the edge, giving the Bombance cocotte dish its comforting roundness. This lip comes out from the body of the dish at each end to form very strong one-piece handles – a simple idea at first sight but a technically complex one.

A famous French designer living in Paris, trained by Marc Newson and Andrée Putman, Inga Sempé expresses – via collaborations with great Italian, Scandinavian and French design houses – her taste for making everyday objects in simple designs. With Revol she found a fertile source of inspiration – its porcelain combined with its innovative manufacture allow for a highly technical design that belies its apparent simplicity.

Tableware International’s Paul Yeomans presenting the Hospitality Dinnerware award to Revol’s CEO, Olivier Passot, for Bombance

Hospitality Glassware

United Tables Fortessa is the winner of the Hospitality

Glassware category with Trevi

The TREVI collection by Fortessa represent a perfect combination of modernity, tradition, and design. It’s an homage to the iconic “Römer” glasses that have graced German tables for generations, infusing a modern twist into a classic midcentury design. TREVI offers a compelling urban statement with four versatile glass sizes: sparkling wine/champagne, red wine/water, white wine, and an allround glass for an extensive range of beverage choices. Each glass is a testament to precision craftsmanship and attention to detail. The distinctive grooved structure on the black base sets TREVI apart, making it a unique and visually captivating collection.

The design of the TREVI fashion glasses was conceived by Carsten Gollnick. His design adds depth to the story of the glasses, emphasizing their uniqueness. These handmade glasses are not just products but art pieces designed with love and attention to detail. The entire design journey, from the initial concept to the creation of the first prototype and finalized in handmade products is a transformative process where every detail is scrutinized, refined, and perfected.

“We are delighted to win the award for TREVI. Innovation requires courage and this was rewarded with the award in the Hospitality Glassware category at international level. TREVI has succeeded very well in translating traditional glass history into modern design and contemporary sizes and functions. A statement series that is suitable for everyday use and versatile thanks to its precise design and high quality. The award

comes at the end of an intensive development phase and confirms the excellent teamwork”

Sven Stockinger, managing director, United Tables

United Tables Fortessa accepting the award for Hospitality Glassware at the Tableware International Awards of Excellence

What is real choice?

After a trip to Ambiente left her a little less than inspired, our columnist Valda Goodfellow has been left searching for great design. She gives her thoughts…

About G & G

Founded by Paul and Valda Goodfellow, G & G Goodfellows is a creative design & distribution company with a showroom in Little Portland Street. Offering a truly hands-on service, Goodfellows passion is to bring new and exciting, bespoke food presentation concepts to the UK’s culinary scene. As well as offering a wide variety of the world’s best branded tableware and more.

“We are our choices” – it’s not often I quote something attributed to the great philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre but it is very apt to the column I am now writing.

It seems to me that our world is getting smaller, and our choices are becoming more limited. Rubbish, I hear you cry, but stop and think about it. We believe we have so much choice but how many of these options are really rooted in variations of the same theme. Just walking around Ambiente tells you how much is so similar that it is hard to tell one brand from another. Is this real choice?

And then there are those that, in the same show, stand out as beacons for individuality and a singular design ethos, regardless of the trend. Designers who are true to their vision, so much so you can pick their designs out

from the masses, just at a glance.

This is what really excites me about shows like Ambiente. If you are looking for the cheapest variant on a design, you wouldn’t really need to go to a show for that. Soon,

place, regardless of whether they are exhibiting or not.

But getting back to choice, there are some amazing designers and manufacturers who make the show very worthwhile, for the very fact

“Just walking around Ambiente tells you how much is so similar… Is this real choice?”

with AI we will be able to shop the cheapest option, just like buying a pair of trainers.

Of course, we all need to keep our supplier relationships going, and Ambiente is the perfect place to meet all the international brands in one

that they demonstrate what real choice is.

I would say some of the stand-out designers and brands include Montgolfier, Serax, Costa Nova, and Cookplay. I have previously highlighted some of these brands but it is becoming

Costa Nova

Studio Mattes

increasingly evident that there are certainly leaders and followers in this industry. Some, like Serax, are experts in setting the trends and presenting them as the most desirable products. Take the new Marni collection, which hits just the right tone of joyfulness and delicacy. Surely this will be a big hit with retail and hospitality customers alike.

With Ana Roquero’s designs, you can never mistake them for anyone else’s. To her, Cookplay is a passion as much as it is a brand; and it shows in the unabashed boldness of the new Tears range.

When it comes to knowing what chefs love, Delphine Stroesser has a fine instinct for design. She has an expert sense of balance in making really interesting tableware, yet not overpowering a chef’s need to let the food take centre stage. Not one to follow trends, Delphine has sustained Montgolfier’s appeal through every whim and fancy of chefs for over many years. Montgolfier is a certified Living Heritage Company (Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant - EPV) and a member of “Ateliers d’Art de France”.

Costa Nova, like Serax, collaborates with some of the world’s best designers and it shows. They consistently read the needs of the casual market and come up with just what it doesn’t yet know it is looking for.

I have to mention our good friend and amazing designer Charlie Martens, who did not exhibit at Ambiente but won this magazine’s Designer of the Year

award. A well-deserved accolade for one of this industry’s finest talents. Another designer who thoroughly believes in his own instincts and delivers an innovative choice every time.

However, wanting a choice says something significant about who we are, which is what Sartre was getting at. Yes, commercial reality, especially in the hospitality sector, is something we all must deal with. If we didn’t, we would not be in business, but we can still make choices, and those choices define who we are.

There are those who make choices from a small pool of widely available yet limited options, because they think they must compete with the guy next door, and maybe sell the same thing a bit cheaper.

Some make choices on availability and convenience, again more than likely leading them into selling cheaper. And yet there are still a few, like us, who are determined to take the road less travelled.

Our road involves providing a choice to our customers that we believe will still deliver commercially but which shines a light on the distinctive and the brave. In the wildly creative environment of restaurant food, there must be a choice. Imagine if every restaurant you went into served its food on the same plates. Diversity is a human craving which needs to be fed.

Those, like us, who swim against this tide of ever-creeping globalisation of limited choice,

“I would say some of the standout designers and brands include Montgolfier, Serax, Costa Nova, and Cookplay”

need to do what we do. Without us there will be less real choice. There will be no need for amazing talents to travel the world’s trade shows, investing their money and passion in the hope we will love and understand them.

In this economic environment of survival seemingly dictated by economies of scale, pause for a while to think about where this will inevitably lead in the choice, we have available to us. It is already happening in

the supermarket industry, where the biggest names sell more but reduce choice. It will soon become a reality in our industry if we are not careful. We may now be part of a group, but we have the mandate to provide choice against the prevailing tide of homogenous supply.

Whether you think I am right or wrong; think about the choices you make, because whether you believe me or not, you can’t argue with Jean-Paul Sartre. We are our choices.

Cookplay

Montgolfier

Exclusively takes place this coming June in London’s Business Design Centre and with the show totally booked out, it promises retailers a host of exciting buying options. We take a closer look at what tabletop buyers can expect to find...

Tableware and kitchenware brands flock to exclusively

With The Exclusively Show (Business Design Centre Islington 11th and 12th June) already 100 per cent sold out in terms of exhibitors, there is a feast of tableware and kitchenware on view and on trend, all ready for housewares retailers to enjoy.

Exhibitors in tableware, kitchenware, and small domestic electricals include Arthur Price, Denby, Dartington Crystal, The DRH Collection, DKB Household, Kilner, Le Creuset, Lifetime Brands, Meyer, Rayware, Robert Welch and Viners as well as new and returning brands such as Portmeirion, Bodum, Minky, International Cookware & Pyrex, Aarke, ABS Pottery, Zero Water and Premier Houseware.

There are a host of ways for retailers to access both exhibitors, products and show features to make the most of a visit to Exclusively. Some of the great show deals available include opportunities to have travel costs refunded up to £75 for visitors, a limited number of free hotel rooms for multiple

and overseas buyers, and a gift voucher of £100, which independent retailers can use against any order of £300 or over placed at the show. All visitors can enjoy a free two-course lunch and are also invited to the drinks’ reception on the Tuesday evening.

In its ever-popular trends feature, Exclusively will include insight into the key trends for the 2025 season with mass market longevity for up to five years ahead, including specific examples in term of themes, colours, and materials on display in the Trends Showcase. Trend forecaster, Scarlet Opus is offering bookable tours of the show, majoring on products it rates as ‘winners’ in terms of the trends on display. Media visitors can also enjoy the Brand Showcase area, a curated edit of Exclusively as a whole. This will include product displays, demos, and opportunities to talk to some of the supplier brands in attendance.

BHETA’s chief operating officer and chair of the BHETA-owned show, Will Jones explained,

“The Exclusively Show is always an exciting event. With its reputation for predicting commercial opportunities for the year ahead and given that it is already sold out to exhibitors, this year is a mustattend for retailers. From the big names to the specialist

independents to overseas buyers, we are expecting a huge turnout, so I urge everyone retailing housewares, tableware, kitchenware, small domestic electricals, laundry, storage, and giftware to come along to the industry’s leading show and highlight of the year.”

Mitigate your import risks with the Red Sea

About BHETA

As threats of potential attack loom over container ships using the Red Sea, Will Jones, chief operating officer, BHETA, discusses other alternatives open to suppliers…

In the last few months –thanks to attacks on container shipping in the Red Sea, the cost of shipping a 40ft container from Asia to the UK has risen from $960 per container to an average of $4,262 on 27th February after peaking at $4,857 on 22nd January (source: Xeneta Shipping Index).

Some kitchen and tableware suppliers have been quoted more – and the implications are obviously massive.

The International Chamber of Shipping says 20 per cent of the world’s container ships are now avoiding the Red Sea and using the longer route around southern Africa. BHETA logistics business service provider, Daley Hub, believes that with the high percentage of homeware product sourced in China, kitchen and tableware sales are, and will, continue to be impacted severely, both in terms of delays to just-intime production and the cost of re-routing. UK plc will also likely experience inflationary pressures and the domino effect of supply chain instability adversely affecting economic growth, innovation, and competitiveness.

We witnessed the effect of rising shipping costs from Asia to Europe in 2021/2022, and just how much the inability to meet consumer expectations of convenience and speed of delivery can impact.

Now it seems that for whatever combination of reasons, we cannot view such episodes as ‘one-offs’–

we must take strategic, potentially permanent steps to mitigate the threats to international supply chain.

For that reason, BHETA is hosted a webinar with Daley Hub in February entitled, ‘Building a Resilient Supply Chain’. The session looked at several potential courses of action for suppliers needing to address the situation.

Diversify supply chain routes

Which is easier said than done midcrisis as air freight is hugely expensive,

– which they may not beexplore the option. Otherwise, the most important tactic is order prioritisation.

Negotiate flexibility in contracts

Check supplier contracts for flexible terms such as force majeure events, providing a legal framework to manage unforeseen disruptions and shared responsibilities. Short term however, this is about joint crisis

“The International Chamber of Shipping says 20 per cent of the world’s container ships are now avoiding the Red Sea and using the longer route around southern Africa”

the train carries a premium and delays are commonplace. Products already in transit will be delayed by 15 days if going around the Cape, so identifying alternative routes and modes of transport is vital, but not a quick fix.

Strengthen communication with suppliers

Maintaining open lines of communication with suppliers and asking them to prioritise the important lines needed most quickly. This may mean shifting around production.

Strategic inventory management

If buffer stocks are possible

management, so be prepared to ignore general rules in order to make, deliver and send what’s needed as a priority.

Embrace technological solutions

Leveraging technology is key to enhancing supply chain visibility. Implementing advanced tracking systems, IoT devices, and analytics tools can provide realtime insights into the location and status of shipments. Don’t however be tempted into ‘quick fixes’ with technology. Better to have a freight forwarder who can negotiate shipping availability, fast boats, competitive rates and booking slots.

The British Home Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA) is the voice of authority on everything home improvement and home enhancement, including DIY, housewares, garden, small domestic appliances and home decor. It represents £5 billion at retail and 9,000 employees and brings together manufacturers, suppliers, retailers and opinion formers to drive growth at home and abroad. For more information about retailer and supplier co-operation, contact BHETA on 0121 237 1130, or email wj@bheta.co.uk, or visit the website at www.bheta.co.uk

Diversify supplier base

For the longer term, consider reducing dependency on a single supplier, identifying alternative sources in different regions.

Collaborate with industry peers

Pooling resources and knowledge within the industry can be an effective way to negotiate better terms with suppliers and logistics providers.

Evaluate insurance coverage

Reviewing and updating insurance coverage is a crucial step in preparing for unforeseen events. Companies should assess their current coverage, ensuring it adequately addresses risks associated with delays, rerouting, and increased transportation costs, especially in the current climate.

For more information about BHETA, BHETA events and BHETA services, contact the BHETA Member Services team on 0121 237 1130 or visit the BHETA website www.bheta.co.uk.

Collection dissection

The CHIC brand from Fine Dining & Living presents Lustre described as “a standout choice for those seeking both aesthetic appeal and culinary excellence in high-quality porcelain”.

TI learns more about this luscious new launch…

When did Lustre launch?

The collection was released in January 2024 and is now available for purchase.

How did the idea for the collection come about?

We want to elevate culinary experiences through elegant and timeless design. Drawing inspiration from the concept of giving attention to the food itself. CHIC aimed to create a range of dinner and serving plates with a detailed design that allows food to stand out.

Tell us about the collection’s décor / colourways / USPs?

The collection’s décor features intricate designs infused with brilliant grains, creating a shimmering effect reminiscent of flower petals. This attention to detail not only enhances the visual appeal of the plates but also draws focus to the food presented on them. The colourways are designed to complement a variety of culinary creations, allowing them to shine on the plate. The collection’s unique selling points lie in its meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design. The plates are shaped to draw all attention to the food, ensuring culinary creations are showcased at their best. Additionally, the shimmering effect of the brilliant grains adds a touch of sophistication, making the Lustre collection a standout choice for those seeking both aesthetic appeal and culinary excellence in high-quality porcelain. Moreover, the collection is highly regarded for its lightweight and easy manageability, catering to both practicality and elegance in dining experiences. Is the collection available in all global sales territories?

The collection will be distributed by our main partners in more than 40 countries all over the world.

What has reaction to the collection been like?

The Lustre collection by CHIC has received a great response. Many people have fallen in love with it at fairs and events because of its unique design and high-quality porcelain. People really like how it makes food look fancy!

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Did you know?

CHIC products can be bought through Fine Dining and Living’s online webshop within Europe. www.finediningandliving.eu/brands/chic