Entries are open from now until 8 November
Contact mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk pyeomans@lemapublishing.co.uk
Best selling pieces in beautiful past el enamel colors trimmed in gold; bo wls, tray s, crosses, frames.
Our ne w ENC ANT O collection it ems are simply irresistible
beatrizballwholesale .marke ttim e. com
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
Welcome to the September/ October issue of Tableware International. As we hurtle towards the end of the year, the Tableware International team has turned our thoughts to our annual Awards of Excellence. Entries are now open for the 2025 event, which will be hosted, once again, at Ambiente (of course, you don’t need to exhibit at Ambiente to enter our awards, it is for the entire industry).
This year, we are introducing a new awards category which honours those brands and manufacturers who are doing the utmost to deliver eco-sensitive collections. The new sustainability award has been introduced to recognise the importance of protecting the planet by producing environmentally aware collections. Our award categories are: Serveware, Barware, Flatware/Cutlery, Casual Glassware, Fine Glassware, Decorative, Coffee/Teaware, Hospitality Dinnerware, Hospitality Glassware
Casual Dinnerware, Fine Dinnerware, Innovation Award, 2025 Designer of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award, and finally Sustainability.
To enter, simply visit www. tablewareinternationalawards.com/, go to the How to Enter tab, and Click here to enter. Turn to page 18 to learn some more about our awards, which we encourage everyone to enter.
Back to the magazine, we feature the powerhouse that is Vista Alegre on our front cover while our category focuses this issue is Decorative and Flatware/Cutlery.
“The decorative tabletop landscape is exploding with excitement with new options! We are now interested in handcrafted pieces, vintage-inspired designs, and the happy resurgence of vibrant colours in innovative materials
like glass, resin, ceramics, and metals has created a truly inspiring moment,” Beatriz Ball tells us. Turn to page 40 to see some great options for retailers looking to expand their decorative offering.
Meanwhile, we also take a look at some flatware/cutlery options. “Effective flatware displays can significantly impact sales,” Sambonet’s Elisabetta Mo told TI. “Our retailers' stores vary greatly in size, assortment and display space. Therefore, a visual merchandising strategy designed ad hoc in consultation with the customer is needed for each of them. We have many PoS materials to suit each one's needs.” We also chat with Elia and Robert Welch to find out how they are approaching the market.
We also highlight the trend for gold pieces on page 62 with lots of suppliers such as Porcel really delivering some gorgeous masterpieces. Our trend columnist Donna Ferrari is on page 46 and gives a lesson on florals, patterns and designs with humour. Donna is an authority on trends, so we take note when she speaks!
We also have all the usual pieces from news to viewpoints to fresh collections. Our next issue sees us produce our annual Tableware International Directory 2025. Don’t forget to email mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk for editorial inclusion and pyeomans@lemapublishing.co.uk for advertising support.
The Nov/Dec issue will host our annual Tableware International Directory 2025. To have your brand included in the annual directory please send the following: short company description (200 words) | one (1) supporting image | company name | company website | sales email | phone number (if applicable). Email mairead@lemapublishing. co.uk for editorial inclusion and pyeomans@ lemapublishing.co.uk for advertising support. Deadline is 25 October.
Swiss knife manufacturer sknife has partnered with the luxury 5-star Hôtel du Cap, Eden Roc. sknife has been commissioned to produce an exclusive bespoke cutlery collection for the famed hotel, inspired by the ocean.
sknife founder and CEO Michael Bach describes the collaboration as “an exceptional opportunity for us, as our strength lies in offering handcrafted precision and tailor-made solutions.”
The brand’s cutlery is forged from a new type of surgical steel and can be used in restaurants by the sea due to the combination with the stabilised wood.
Sambonet is preparing for a new rebrand. Officially launching in the coming months, Sambonet says the rebrand is “not a new identity, but rather a new way of communicating Italian genius and the values that have always characterised the creation and production of Sambonet’s collections”.
The rebrand will be communicated through a multi-channel campaign culminating with the launch of a special new collection that will become its symbol: 100.
“Like the newly rediscovered Sambonet, the new 100 line looks to the future, always keeping the ingenuity and craftsmanship developed over many years of activity,” the brand says.
Royal Scot Crystal has elevated its Champagne coupe offering, with glasses now available in the popular London and Edinburgh traditional hand-cut designs.
The brand currently offer intaglio hand cut Champagne coupe glasses in the Grapevine, Nouveau and Flower of Scotland designs, but from October/November 2024 customers will be able to also purchase coupes in additional designs. Reach out to the brand via www.royalscotcrystal.com for more.
The Ritz Paris has turned fragments of its beautiful Haviland-made porcelain dinner service into a jewellery collection. The iconic hotel’s legendary porcelain dinner service Marthe, created by César Ritz in 1898 and still used today, has been given a new lease of life.
Fragments of the Haviland-made range have been given to the nonprofit La Fabrique Nomade who champion the social and professional integration of migrant and refugee artisans in France. Six artisans have created this first collection of 40 exclusive pieces, including necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings.
Legend has it that the coupe glass was moulded from Marie Antoinette's left breast, and that she wanted her court to toast her health by drinking from glasses shaped like her bosom. However, the glass was actually born long before the reign of the Queen, in 1663 in England. It was one of the first, if not the first, glasses invented specifically for drinking Champagne.
Sieger By Fürstenberg is expanding two of its successful tumbler series: one with two new superhero décors, Shining Star and Blaze Beast, and one with two new animal decors, The Flamingos and The Turtles. The new tumblers will be available to buy from mid-October 2024.
Wedgwood has introduced a new teaware collection which beautifully captures famed naturalist Charles Darwin’s journey on the HMS Beagle to far flung climes.
Darwin received the invite to travel on the ship in 1831, aged just 22. Over a five-year period, he travelled on HMS Beagle, visiting places such as a Brazil, Uruguay, Patagonia, Chile, The Galapagos, and Tahiti.
These destinations all feature on Wedgwood’s new collection, including original drawings from those locations, plus plant and animal life that Charles Darwin discovered whilst anchored there.
The collection, Darwin Voyage of the Beagle, has been produced with Wedgwood working closely with Cambridge University Library, original drawings from Darwin’s trip (created by the ship’s artist Conrad Martens and Darwin himself) have been carefully styled on to teacup and saucers, and coupe plates by the Wedgwood design team. The use of original drawings from the journey fills this collection with an authentic story full of history. Each three-piece set (consisting of a teacup, saucer and 20cm coupe plate) celebrates a different port of call for the HMS Beagle on her voyage of discovery.
Each teaware set is lined in a unique pop of coloured enamel and has a special Voyage of the Beagle backstamp.
Glassmaker Vidrios San Miguel is committed to the environment, producing its products with 100 per cent post-consumer recycled glass. “We have remained steadfast in our commitment to the environment,” the brand tells Tableware International. “Design, quality and competitive prices are perfectly possible with 100 per cent post-consumer recycled glass. In addition, glass can be infinitely recycled and each individual action makes a difference. When you use recycled glass you close the loop,” the brand adds. Visit www.vsanmiguel.com to learn more about the company and its products.
Dutch porcelain maker Heinen Delfts Blauw has expanded its Sharing Moments collection to include textiles.
The Sharing Moments collection is designed by tv celebrity Janny van der Heijden with her adorable Dachshund Nhaan playing the collection’s main character. The little four legged diva runs, tumbles and plays around on the mugs, bowls and plates, but now we also see her on tea towels, kitchen towels, aprons and table runners. A sure-fire hit with fans!
Portmeirion’s Sara Miller London has unveiled a playful new collection, Woodland Tales. Described by the brand as “an endearing collection of playful woodland characters in an array of enchanting winter scenes”, Woodland Tales is full of nostalgic charm with motifs evoking seasonal frivolities.
The collection is presented in gift boxes, with each piece – including mugs, cake plates, serving platters, a mug and tray set, cake server, set of three decorations, candy bowl, tea for one, and placemats and coasters.
Tableware International’s annual awards ceremony – judged by the industry, for the industry – returns for 2025. Now an absolute must in the yearly awards diary, we are honoured to host this great event which takes place during Ambiente…
The 2025 Awards of Excellence boasts a new award focusing on sustainability. The more and more tabletop providers prioritising environmental welfare, this Sustainability Award is aimed at products, collections or projects created in a sustainably responsible way, purposefully designed to reduce environmental impact.
“It is really important we recognise those companies who are doing their best for the environment, we want to give them the respect they deserve,”
says Tableware International’s editor Mairead Wilmot.
The annual Tableware International Awards of Excellence returns for 2025, once again supporting the tabletop industry with a best-in-class awards judged by industry professionals.
The ceremony will take place during Ambiente – (although, of course, entries don’t have to exhibit at the show to enter) –and this year we introduce a new award: sustainability.
The Designer of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award are also open for nominations from the industry, so do please get involved.
“We are thrilled to host these very special awards,” says Tableware International’s publisher Paul Yeomans. “It is our way of paying the utmost respect to the talent, innovation and skill in the tableware sector.”
Tableware International’s editor
How to enter!
Mairead Wilmot encouraged the industry to take part in the awards. “We host these awards to honour the industry, but we need you to enter so we have a full representation of the entire sector, from high-end fine dining right through to hospitality glassware – every company is welcome to enter.” Last year winners included Narumi, Orrefors, Vista Alegre, Revol and many more across a host of categories including Fine Dinnerware, Hospitality Dinnerware, Casual Glassware and more.
Judged by an international panel of experts, the awards are open to collections and pieces which launched in 2024.
To enter, simply visit www.tablewareinternationalawards.com
Serveware serving pieces, platters, bowls
Barware tools, drinkware, serveware: collection or specific pieces
Flatware/Cutlery collections or individual items
Casual Glassware everyday, machine-made
Fine Glassware premium, crystal, mouthblown
Decorative vases, bowls, candlesticks, photo-frames, figurines
Coffee/Teaware full set and/or individual coffee/ tea pieces
Hospitality Dinnerware
HoReCa specific collections
Hospitality Glassware
HoReCa specific collections
Sustainability products, collections or projects created in a sustainably responsible way, purposefully designed to reduce environmental impact
Casual Dinnerware everyday, informal
Fine Dinnerware bridal, formal, premium, luxury
Innovation Award collections or individual pieces with stand-out, innovative elements either in design or make
2025 Designer of the Year a designer whose work is considered excellent
Lifetime Achievement Award someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the industry
ArdaCam has expanded its fine dining offering with the new Hammered collection. The brand says this new series “brings a unique touch with its distinctive hammered finish, combining elegance with a modern edge”.
Designed with both function and aesthetics in mind, the Hammered collection “exudes sophistication and quality”, with ArdaCam saying it is “the perfect choice for high-end establishments looking to elevate their table settings”.
www.ardaglassware.com
LSA has introduced a clever new assortment which can be used as both candleholders and vases. Beacon is mixed-material collection with a modular design. Conical glass forms with a linear texture hold a powder-coated steel candleholder with low profile and wide rim. This is the clever bit – the steel component can be removed so the pleated glass vessel can be used separately as a vase and in some cases, a storm lantern. Available in varying heights, shapes and colours, offering ambient light to table settings and interiors. www.lsa-international.com
Porcel has embraced the beauty of platinum with its latst elevation of the Belle Époque collection – Belle Époque PT. Inspired by the original Belle Époque, this new collection sees gold replaced with platinum, giving the collection a new personality and refinement. Its delicate pattern adds an artistic and contemporary touch, creating a soft contrast with the white of porcelain.
Porcel says Belle Époque PT promises to offer a variety of possible combinations, allowing each customer to explore and create unique, as well as, memorable tables.
www.porcel.com
Rosenthal’s latest series Bloom puts floral shapes centre stage, as the brand takes inspiration from Asian dining practises. Bowls and dishes are reminiscent of open hibiscus flower heads, while plates and cups are mostly puristically round. Most interesting about this porcelain collection is the complementary colourways – Lava, Scarlet and Snow. The irregularly applied, very matt coloured glaze gives the pieces a touch of handcrafted stoneware, making each product unique. Look out for the lidded jar, bowls with a foot, a pourer and the small bowls in shapes inspired by nature - all coming in the gorgeous Lava shade.
www.rosenthal.de
The new glassware collection from Carrol Boyes has been inspired by the beautiful Peace Lily flower. Sway is distinguished by its lovely silhouette inspired by the flower. This collection includes Champagne flutes and coupes, along with red and white wine glasses. Each piece, meticulously mouth-blown and hand-finished by master artisans, is crafted from lead-free crystal, renowned for its brilliance and clarity. www.carrolboyes.com
NUDE has added a series of new cocktail glasses to its Gravity collection. Combining functionality with design and pushing beyond the traditional boundaries of glassware, the new cocktail glasses were designed by Ali Bakova.
The four new designs are handcrafted from lead-free crystal with the collection catering to every taste and need. eu.nudeglass.com
Cumbria Crystal’s lastest collection sees it working with recent Royal College of Art graduate Xinlu Liu MA (RCA) who collaborated with Cumbria Crystal to develop a contemporary collection. Her concept is based on complementary pairs. Like individuals coming together and forming harmonious bonds, this series celebrates uniqueness and togetherness in people and relationships. www.cumbriacrystal.com
The Polish Porcelain Factory Ćmielów & Chodziez introduces the new Jenny Verde cup collection. The simple shape is available in six different decorations with the cup, saucer and dessert plate hand-finished in painted gold. The inspiration for the decoration was taken from the motifs of Italian mosaics with floral ornaments.
www.grupa-porcelanowa.pl
Look out for the Encanto series from Beatriz Ball, particularly the colourful Encanto Carola Large Pedestal. The gold-rimmed piece is as practical as it is decorative. Ideal for fruit, salads, snacks and sides, you can combine it with other Encanto Carola pieces for an elevated serving set. Available in four colours and two sizes, Encanto is made from easy-care, aluminium alloy with a food safe enamel finish. And it’s even dishwasher safe! Wholesale.beatrizball.com
Dunoon has produced the lovely Estivale decoration – a set of two sophisticated designs on Skye, Dunoon’s large on-trend teacup style shape. Both mugs feature swirling florals in rich 22 carat gold with delicate butterflies flying in amongst the foliage. The mugs are colour themed and have borders of gold key patterns giving even more opulence to these timeless classics. Beautifully designed by David Broadhurst, these are made in fine bone china and handcrafted in Staffordshire. www.dunoonmugs.co.uk
Designed to empower chefs to express their creativity, Bonna’s latest collection – Rivus – takes its inspiration from the Mediterranean. With two pattern options, and beautifully pairing with other Bonna collections such as Sand and Sky, Rivus boasts spiral patterns which mimic the flowing movement of water, while its palette of blue and earthy tones conjures the serene reflections of a river. Like other Bonna assortments, Rivus has a guarantee against edge chipping. www.bonna.com.tr
The Chic brand from Fine Dining & Living is bang on trend with the latest burgundy additions to the Perla range. Grey joins fashion-forward burgundy as the newest colourways added to the Perla series.
“The coloured Perla collection embodies the perfect fusion of minimalist design and contemporary influences,” the brand says.
Perla items are manufactured using the innovative SiloxiHT formula, which combines thinness, light transparency and durability for unparalleled elegance and robustness.
Meanwhile, Chic is the official award partner of the prestigious Gault&Millau Awards. In collaboration with Gault&Millau, the brand is proudly presenting the ‘Hostess of the Year’ award at the event on 4 November at Brussels Expo. Chic will be present with a partner stand and featured in an advertisement in the Gault&Millau guide.
www.finediningandliving.eu
Noritake’s new Clémence collection – which will be presented at Ambiente ‘25 – has been inspired by the five senses. Unique from other Noritake collections, this has been developed with chefs. Noritake says the collection “has a global reach in mind, but with minimal simplicity”.
www.noritake.com
Lazzaro’s popular Noir Collection, as seen in Dubai’s Emporio Armani Café and London’s Pan Pacific Hotel, has been extended to include dining options.
Originally introduced as a tea and coffee service, the collection has been extended to include plates, platters, and pasta bowls. The new pieces feature timeless black stripe bands, handdecorated on brilliant white bone china shapes, making them both visually striking and highly durable. www.lazzaro.in
Stölzle Lausitz has announced an exclusive partnership with the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI). As the official glassware partner of the ASI, Stölzle Lausitz’s products will be showcased at ASI events, tastings, and competitions worldwide.
Chef Alessandro Riemer has been wowing guests at his restaurant Wine & Dine by Villa Melsheimer in Reil, on the picturesque banks of the Moselle River. Along with spectacular food, he has been presenting his culinary creations on Rosenthal porcelain, choosing from beloved collections like Mesh, TAC, Junto, and Joyn Stoneware. His new 11-course menu has become a favourite among diners, and Riemer serves it in the Rosenthal Joyn stoneware multibowl. www.rosenthal.de
Sambonet has launched HighCarbon, an innovative new project for the hospitality industry.
High-Carbon line is an original tray made from carbon fiber, combining design, performance, and innovation. Sambonet has harnessed carbon-fiber’s unique properties to develop the new product. “Every detail has been specifically designed to enhance
the inherent strength of carbon fiber, from the bottom thickness to the curvature of the edges and handles,” Sambonet says. Interestingly, the handles have been designed to be one with the body of the tray, giving better grip and stability, and eliminating points where food residue and dirt can accumulate.
www.sambonet.com
Visitors to Ambiente Dining can expect to meet a myriad of market leaders such as Eternum, Grestel, Pozzi Milano, Sola Switzerland, Stölzle Lausitz and Thun. In the hospitality field, Bohemia Cristal, Güral, Lav, Libbey, Nadir, Pasabahce, Rosenthal and Villeroy & Boch will be exhibiting. Crystal Bohemia, Kutahya and Noritake are all returning.
Ambiente '25 will host a structured programme of events designed to support and inspire the sector’s many different facets. This year the programme is structured in themed days: with numerous award ceremonies, the Friday of the trade fair is the Awards Day. Saturday will be the Designer Day in cooperation with the German Design Council with exciting presentations on topics such as AI and circularity planned. On Sunday and Monday, the Conzoom Solutions Academy will focus on the topic of retail of the future. The hospitality industry is also in the spotlight of the fringe programme – Monday is Hotelier’s Day.
Ambiente is expanding its hospitality offering to include the furnishing and fitting out of commercial properties. From 2025, anyone equipping hospitality venues will find a comprehensive range of products under the “Hospitality” banner, says show organisers Messe Frankfurt.
Along with everything offered to the hospitality industry in Hall 11.0, previously known as HoReCa, the Special Interest Hospitality also includes suppliers from other Dining halls with their own product lines for the hospitality industry, as well as exhibitors from the Living area of Ambiente such as Interiors & Decoration in Hall 3.0 ,and Interior Design in Hall 3.1. Exhibitors from the Office Design & Solutions range at Ambiente Working in Hall 3.1 will now complement the new set up.
As a result, commercial buyers will be directed even more specifically to companies with expertise in equipping hotels, restaurants, caterers, cruise ships, etc. with dining or interior ranges and product lines for the hospitality industry. Similarly, furnishers and fitters of real estate outside the hospitality industry will find a comprehensive range of products and services under the Special Interest Contract Business.
Ambiente has struck a deal with South American organisation Azul Play to promote the brand in the region.
Philipp Ferger and Julia Uherek, vice presidents Consumer Goods Fairs Messe Frankfurt, recently met with Carlos Clur, president, and Mariano Botindari, CFO Grupo Eletrolar, to agree a deal promoting Ambiente in South America.
“We are always looking for opportunities to network internationally, to offer our exhibitors and visitors additional added value and look forward to working together in this exciting market,” says Philipp Ferger.
For 15 years, Azul Play has organised the Eletrolar Show, Brazil's largest trade fair for consumer electronics, home appliances, mobile devices, furniture, housewares and IT. The company is also responsible for the Smartphone Congress, Eletrolar Congress & Expo WTC, the Artificial Intelligence
Summit for Retail, Latin American Electronics, Latin American Housewares, Electronics Home Argentina, Electronics Home & Mobile Miami and Latin American Housewares Miami. With its Eletrolar News Magazine, Azul Play is the perfect partner to promote Ambiente in this region.
Ambiente’s Designer for 2025, Fabian Freytag, will present a special installation in Galleria 1, designed to be an inviting meeting place for everyone.
With his design for The Lounge, Freytag uses selected exhibitor products to create inviting worlds of style for the hospitality space of tomorrow and offers visitors from the hospitality and contract business sectors maximum inspiration for their business.
Don’t forget!
Ambiente, Christmasworld and Creativeworld will take place at the same time at the Frankfurt exhibition centre. However, they will be moved to the beginning of February to ensure that the trade fair dates are harmonised. Ambiente/ Christmasworld run from 7 to 11 February, 2025 while Creativeworld runs from 7 to 10 February, 2025.
As
Crystalex celebrates the opening of a new flagship in Prague, Tableware International speaks with marketing manager Michaela Šlegr about the importance of the impressive retail unit...
Tell us about the look and feel of the new Crystalex store - what did you hope to achieve by opening it?
We felt we wanted to take a big step to promote our brand on the Czech market and to get it into the wider awareness of domestic customers and foreign tourists. The new store represents an important historical milestone for our brand and follows a period when we completely changed the entire graphic design. The interior of the store itself had to match this, and we approached top architect Mark Deyl to design it. Above all, the icon of the entire store is the unique and well-lit barrisol structure, which will speak to every viewer, day and night. Its purpose is to beautifully present each product. The design of the original structure is inspired by the architecture of the building itself and its expression is perfectly linked to it.
What was the general reaction to the opening of the store?
The moment we started the implementation of the store, we appreciated the support of all the partners who worked with us to build it. It was already extremely motivating. The same goes for the employees, whose enthusiasm and
teamwork helped to fine-tune the store to perfection. The confidence that we could do it together was simply amazing. The moment we also shared this information on social media and gave a number of our business partners a behind-thescenes look at the preparations, we received a lot of positive feedback. Everyone was very supportive, looking forward to the moment when we would open for the first time. The opening of the shop itself was a great success and we are extremely pleased with every word of praise.
Visitors praised us especially the star of the interior in the form of the barrisol structure, but also the selection of glass, which really impressed them with its design.
How many collections/ products will be displayed in the store?
We will have around 400 products on display in the store, but it will be far from all the products we have on offer. This would not be possible given the capacity of the store.
We agreed from the beginning that we didn’t want to display our entire range at any price, which would be detrimental given the size of the collections. In fact, we place great emphasis on aesthetics in the store. We also believe that sometimes less is more, which is why we will present
a carefully selected assortment, including fresh novelties, bestsellers and limited editions. And if our customers happen to be missing something, we can send them the products by appointment from our e-shop, which is fully stocked with all the collection.
“We are incredibly proud of the new flagship store!”
Will it be only Crystalex products or will you have other brands available?
Primarily Crystalex products will be displayed in our shop, but during the next year they will also be complemented by the glass brand Egermann, which we bought and took under our wing. With an eye and respect for tradition, we have rebranded and also developed unique collections that are inspired by the original creations but made using our techniques. In addition, customers can look forward to collections we have produced together with Decor by Glassor, a Czech brand that produces glass Christmas decorations.
BHETA is actioning an urgent UK government lobbying initiative, via a joint campaign with members to tackle DEFRA on the upcoming Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme. The scheme will be imposed on all producers of packaging materials from next year. This follows the department’s publication of the first set of illustrative fees in which shows a planned tax increase of 887 per cent.
BHETA’s chief operating officer, Will Jones says: “BHETA has been alarmed by the scale of the tax burden on producers that EPR represents. Along with many other bodies, we have consistently highlighted the weaknesses of the scheme which prompted the last government to delay the scheme in 2023. EPR is now back on the table and proposed rates of tax are punitive for individual businesses and the UK economy. Pressure must be applied to reduce rates and devise a fairer scheme ahead of this Autumn’s budget."
The EPR scheme is an additional tax, which targets branded product suppliers and retailers of own label goods. It represents a shift in financial responsibility for the treatment of household waste and packaging, moving it 100 per cent to suppliers and retailers.
Luxury London retailer Thomas Goode recently went into administration, allegedly owning more than £5 million.
The Mayfair retailer known for supplying fine china and silverware to the rich and famous was backed by Sir Elton John who is a minority shareholder.
Brands stocked by the store included Meissen, Lalique and Herend amongst others. The store was famed for providing a dinner service for the 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Diana. Administrators David Elliott and Mark Reynolds of Valentine & Co are seeking a buyer for the business, which earlier this year faced a winding up petition from HMRC over an unpaid tax bill of more than £1 million.
Kilner has opened a new store in the MacArthur Glen Designer Outlet, Swindon. With over 180 years of heritage, the brand will bring its extensive range of kitchenware, storage solutions, and iconic glass jars to the public in person.
The store will be offering unmissable deals and selling a selection of Kilner products plus more from our other brands, Mason Cash, Viners, Price & Kensington, Ravenhead and Typhoon Housewares.
Rosenthal´s iconic Design Vases went on tour this year, visiting some of Germany’s top department stores.
A huge hit at Ambiente, the installation which sees the beautiful vases move on a sushi belt, first visited Oberpollinger in Munich before moving on to Van Dorp in Bonn and then to Galeria in Europa Passage, Hamburg.
Staff reported the presentation led to increased sales and visibility.
Chris Blade, CEO, Cumbria Crystal
What impact does closure of Thomas Goode have on Cumbria Crystal? Cumbria Crystal worked for many years with Thomas Goode and its closure sees the loss of an hugely valuable central London platform for clients to see, hold and feel products prior to purchase. Its closure is a tragic blow for the industry.
Are consumers buying on-line or in-store?
Highstreet retail sales of luxury handmade crystal still seems to be experiencing a downturn. As a company we now sell far more crystal online than through traditional routes.
M&S has partnered with British interior designer Kelly Hoppen on a new homewares range. Inspired by luxury living, the 75-piece collection includes statement lighting, ceramics and textiles.
Karen Thomas, head of home design at Marks & Spencer says: “As one of the most well-known interior designers in the UK and with a global reach, we knew from our very first conversations that Kelly Hoppen would be the perfect fit for M&S Home. We’re delighted to have been able to work together to bring Kelly’s vision and designs to life.” Pictured at the launch is Heidi Woodhouse, home director at M&S, Kelly Hoppen CBE and Damian Hopkins CBE, founder of PDS Radius.
Rosenthal
Villeroy &
Boch
Sambonet
WMF
Jars
Mason Cash
Kilner
Zwilling
Prague-based ATELIER Potten & Pannen is a place where the bar on dining, cooking, and baking is well and truly raised. Michelle Hespe learns more…
For more than three decades, Czech retailer and entrepreneur Pavel Stanek has been doing what he loves doing best – retailing in high-end homeware and creating amazing experiences and memories for his customers. What makes this so special is that in turn, he has dedicated his life and work to provide space and products for his customers so that they can do what they love best – cook, bake, dine, socialize and create remarkable experiences and memories.
The original Potten & Pannen – Staněk store was established in central Prague as a leading, exclusive importer, distributor and direct seller of kitchenware and household brands.
Fast forward to today and the brand has 13 bricks and mortar stores in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, three e-commerce stores and two renowned gourmet academy cooking schools.
Now the forward-thinking company also has a stunning flagship store – Atelier – suitably housed in one of Prague’s cherished historic buildings. This remarkable store that seems more like a highend gallery, became one of top five home and housewares retailers in the world at the 2024 Global Innovation Awards (gia) held by the International Housewares Association in Chicago.
“It’s an amazing recognition that belongs to everyone involved in this project,” said Pavel at the gia gala awards and dinner. “Atelier, in the Andaz hotel, is our biggest and most luxurious store yet, featuring exclusive brands and a selection of both Czech and international
design not just for the kitchen.
“It’s a place where we tell a story about cooking and dining by appealing to all human senses. Succeeding in such a vast competition is proof to me that the hard work the entire team has put into Atelier has paid off,” he said.
The two-floor, 330 square-meter store was designed by renowned Czech designers from the Vrtiška & Žák studio, with the awe-inspiring centerpiece being a 15-metre long solid brass table where many of the store’s products are displayed. From
waves, as though caught up in a silent dance through the air.
The entire store is softly lit to place the importance on the array of products, design and art works, such as the one-of-a-kind Liani glass chandelier designed by renowned Czech artist Maxim Velcovsky and produced by Lasvit.
“We believe that once someone steps into the store, they will not want to leave,” says Pavel. “The space resembles a gallery where you can easily spend an entire afternoon.”
Technology plays an important
“Atelier, in the Andaz hotel, is our biggest and most luxurious store yet, featuring exclusive brands and a selection of both Czech and international design”
Pavel Stanek
the ground, punctuating the table’s surface, and carrying on up into the air and around the room, are tendril of copper rods punctuated by tiny LED lights that create a tangible sculpture representing aromas rising from a kitchen.
The gia expert jurors were blown away by the captivating sculpture, commenting that there has been “tremendous commitment to the centerpiece.” They said that “the central display drives the store traffic and the entire experience, with the sculptural, beautiful lines in the fixtures drawing the eye to the table.”
The many pieces of art that come together to create an imaginary kitchen include a sculpture of pots and pans by kitchenware brand Mauviel, that are assembled in
The brand has 13 retail stores in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, three e-commerce stores and two renowned gourmet academy cooking schools.
role in the store’s success, but it does not take center stage. A digital touchscreen, free Wifi and iPads are available so that purchases can be made wherever a customer may be. This makes technology a handy facilitator for sales, while the products and the displays remain the stars of the show.
“When it comes to facilitating a perfect shopping experience, Atelier nails all important parameters,” they noted. “For example, there are iPads available in-store for product information and ideas, and the company uses personal emails for customer communications, further strengthening the feeling of luxury and exclusivity.”
Exclusivity has been a common thread in Pavel’s stores. Back in 2014, he and his team launched the world’s first and only KitchenAid concept store, and then released the same concept store in Slovakia later. In 2017, Pavel and his team received a gia award for the store, and the jury was impressed with
the world-first innovation of merging a kitchenware store with a cooking school.
Staff have always been a pivotal element of the company’s success. Pavel said it back in 2017, and he feels exactly the same way now:
“Two of the most important factors in our business are our welltrained employees and their indepth knowledge of our products,” says Pavel. “They serve each of our clients with a smile, armed with complimentary tea and coffee. There is regular specialized product training by brand managers and representatives from manufacturers, and often employees travel to the product manufacturers’ bases to learn about the product production process. It gives them more detail in terms of unique selling points.”
Despite the undeniably exquisite nature of Atelier, the grounding philosophy from when the first store opened, is still the core of the company’s approach to retailing.
Sponsored and organised 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 2024-2025, contact Piritta Törrö: piritta. torro@inspiredconnection.fi.
Trade event specialists ANDMORE – owners of Atlanta Market, Las Vegas Market and others – are continually connecting brands with retailers and buyers across the United States. With that in mind, Tableware International caught up with some US retailers to learn more about how they are doing business…
Brooks S. Terry is the owner of Babcock Gifts in Memphis, Tennessee. Stocking brands such as Herend, Costa Nova and Beatriz Ball, the bridal market is an integral part of the store’s business
Give us some insight into the brands you stock?
Babcock Gifts has a large selection of formal and casual tableware and accessories. Annieglass, Herend, Beatriz Ball, Casafina/Costa Nova, Juliska, Skyros and Vietri are strong brands for us for tableware as well as accessories. Annieglass is very popular due to the fact it is used in casual as well as formal settings and is dishwasher safe. Herend remains strong, especially for brides who register a formal pattern. And similarly with glassware, barware and flatware, what brands are proving popular for you?
Glassware has provided a challenge since the pandemic due to
Jaleh Sallee is the owner of Léránt, based in Houston, Texas. The store stocks brands such as Royal Crown Derby, Vista Alegre and Bernardaud and gifting plays a key role in the business
factory closures in Europe. Waterford stemware remains popular for brides. Everyday glassware brands that are popular include Artland, Casafina/ Costa Nova, Juliska, Memento and Vietri which offer customers a variety of glassware for all occasions. Babcock Gifts offers several brands of barware including Baccarat, William Yeoward, Match and Simon Pearce. Is gifting a key part of your business, and where does tabletop sit in terms of popularity as a gifting option?
Gifting is a key part of our business and tabletop is a popular gift item. Southerners still love to entertain and that makes tabletop strong for gift-
Give us some insight into the brands you stock?
We carry a variety of brands from fine china to everyday use. Top brands include L’Objet, Herend, Bernardaud, Royal Crown Derby, Versace, Juliska, Gien, Vista Alegre and Vietri.
To further accessorize your table, we advise clients to shop Michael Aram, Vista Alegre and Vagabond House, plus linens from Kim Seybert, Julian Mejia and Bodrum.
And similarly with glassware,
ing. Entertaining may be more casual than it was at one time but people still want to set a coordinated, stylish table. Popular brands include Vida by Beatriz Ball and Annieglass as well as local and national potters. Popular national brands include Alex Marshall and Alison Evans as well as Terrafirma Ceramics by Ellen Evans. Is bridal popular for you?
Bridal registry is an integral part of our business. We offer brides the opportunity to come into the store and work with a bridal consultant
or they may register online at their convenience. Many of our registrants live in other cities but want to register at “home” so the online convenience allows them to start their registry and visit the store when they are able. What are the biggest challenges you are facing as a retailer?
Staying abreast of the current trends and seeking new lines for our great customers! We, like all retailers, continue to face the challenges of increasing prices and delays in deliveries. Online retailers also provide a challenge.
barware and flatware, what brands are proving popular for you?
Our most popular crystal lines are Baccarat, Saint Louis and William Yeoward. The same for barware with an addition of Mario Luca Guisti. We like to give clients a range of price points to choose from and various colorways. For flatware, we offer Puiforcat, Christofle, Ricci, Juliska and Michael Aram.
Is gifting a key part of your business, and where does tabletop sit in terms of popularity as a gifting
option? Gifting is a large part of our business. Clients still love to give tabletop serving pieces and accessories to decorate their kitchens. From wedding gifts to housewarming, clients come to us for the perfect selection. We offer complimentary gift wrapping.
What are the biggest challenges you are facing as a retailer? Our biggest challenge is the shift to online shopping, we find people are not as much visiting brick and mortar stores.
Give us some insight into the brands you stock?
Upon approaching The Artist’s Kitchen Shop, one’s expectation is they will experience something special. Our objective is to deliver just that. As visitors wander through our space, I often hear the exclamation, “Wow, I’ve never seen this before!”. What our customers best respond to are items you just don’t find everywhere. Everyone needs a niche. This is ours.
Tableware reigns supreme here. It is our number one category. When displaying, we like to present an entire look. Dishware, flatware, table linens, glassware and placemats are all brought together to create a statement. One that our buyers want to bring home. Our largest selling brands are Skyros, Casafina, La Gabbianella and Zaklady. I focus on them because of their quality and authenticity. In accessories, we carry Garnier Thiebaut and Bodrum, Kim Seybert, Sertodo Copper and
Kathy Louderback is owner of The Artist’s Kitchen Shop in Sedona, Arizona. Tableware “reigns supreme” in the store and they stock brands such as Skyros, Stolzle Lausitz, Casafina, La Gabbianella and Zaklady
lesser-known brands to complete the tablescape.
And similarly with glassware, barware and flatware, what brands are proving popular for you?
I have an interesting customer base. As The Artist’s Kitchen Shop is located in the tourism mecca of Sedona, Arizona, we see shoppers from all over the country as well as Europe and Asia. The same as in tableware, my clientele seek unique items. Our number one flatware is by far Mepra. The glassware that sells best are the prettiest ones. Vietri’s Regalia and our newly added Stolzle Lausitz do very well, but most of the glassware sold are the unique pieces from Murano. I am seeing a lot of interest in cocktail glasses. Whiskey glasses are always popular. The collections, Peaks and Grand Canyon from Liiton attract most as they offer the uniqueness sought and the price point.
Is gifting a key part of your business, and where does tabletop sit in terms of popularity as a gifting option?
Many of the people who visit the shop are looking for gifts. Of tabletop, the serveware is naturally a popular choice for gift givers, particularly the Polish pottery pieces
as they can easily stand alone. What are the biggest challenges you are facing as a retailer?
Our biggest challenge is sourcing the right supplier. It is important to me to partner with companies that appreciate the value that a brick and mortar brings to their brand.
Inspired by Monet’s garden, marries artistry with functionality. High-quality glass beautifully displays beverages, while ergonomic design ensures comfort. Elevate your drinks from juice to smoothies.
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
The festive season is all but upon us, but how does a tableware retailer prepare for what is traditionally the busiest time of the year? Our columnist Michele Trzuskowski gives us some insight into how she does it
With the holidays just around the corner, and with big box retailers fighting for your dollars, dare I ask… have you ordered your holiday assortment yet? Many retailers order holiday merchandise in January of the current year or nine months in advance…but for you last minute buyers - there is still time. The question is to order holiday or not to order holiday?
Personally, I think you do a disservice to your customer base by not having holiday décor, gifts or serveware on hand. Most of us are tabletop, or gift stores with tabletop, and our patrons expect the seasonal cheer that comes with the Christmas season.
If you haven’t dipped your toes into the water yet, let me share some of the many wonderful collections you can consider adding to your store’s holiday assortments.
Let’s start with dinnerware. Christmas time is the one time of year that almost guarantees a family gathering at the dining room table hopefully with a beautiful seasonal tablescape.
Most major manufacturers offer a holiday dinnerware collections, often with regular new introductions each year.
This ranges from high end, luxury brands like Versace, to brands like Juliska, Arte Italica, Skyros, or Vista Alegre. What’s nice about getting into the holiday dinnerware lines is that they are collections your customers can build on year after year, and they usually come back to where they originally purchased it.
This year, Versace for example, added a green variation to its original red Medusa Garland. With its opulent iconic Medusa surrounded by flower garlands and acanthus
leaves, it offers festive glamour and richness to any table. This collection also includes matching ornaments that can complement your store’s gift section.
But if you’re looking for a more affordable range to bring into your store, than you might consider Vista Alegre’s Christmas Magic, a porcelain multi-piece dinnerware assortment with accessories including (again for your gift section) trinket boxes, and ornaments.
Stepping more into the casual stoneware and ceramic collections I love Juliska’s Berry and Thread North Pole. A fabulous collection which mixes and matches with their original Berry and Thread Whitewash pattern which makes it a great collection to slowly introduce holiday.
Italica who introduced a red version of their vetro gold stemware collection. I can’t think of one of my manufacturers that is not taking advantage of fourth quarter sales and the holidays by not including a seasonal collection in their assortments. Beyond tableware, many companies additionally offer table linens and napkins that compliment their place settings, and/or giftables to offer you a one stop shopping opportunity. Plus, if you are more of a gift store, rather than a dedicated tabletop shop, you can just bring in several serving pieces like cake plates, serving platters, or canape plates from the larger collections as they make great hostess gifts or holiday gifts in and of themselves.
“I can’t think of one of my manufacturers that is not taking advantage of fourth quarter sales and the holidays by not including a seasonal collection in their assortments”
if you wanted to add holiday tablescape décor you could do that with Juliska’s collection of glass trees, salt and pepper shakers, and place card holders. I find that when customers have the foundational setting, in this case the original Berry and Thread, they are more likely to add on to it with holiday pieces.
Another fresh collection introduced within the last couple of years is Estrella from Skyros Designs. Estrela is a charming collection – whimsical yet classic at the same time. Like Juliska they offer stunning handmade ceramic trees that complement their table setting. Besides dinnerware, stemware plays an increasing role in the holiday tablescapes, and manufactures take advantage of that especially during the holiday season. Take Vietri for example who has some beautiful Italian stemware called Garland. It is mouthblown, and with its green and red colouring matches the majority of holiday dinnerware out there.
Another stunning glass is by Arte
If you haven’t taken the plunge into holiday merchandise, I would encourage you to do so. In my case it brings customers back year after year looking to add on to collections that have now become family traditions with the intent of becoming future heirlooms.
The most wonderful time of the year is not only because it’s Christmas but also the time of year that is usually the most profitable – so take advantage of every aspect of it – and that includes Christmas merchandise.
Supermodel and businesswoman Claudia Schiffer has partnered with Vista Alegre and Bordallo Pinheiro on another collection. Gudrun follows on from the successful Cloudy Butterflies and marks Schiffer’s first foray into porcelain…
Claudia Schiffer has partnered with Vista Alegre and Bordallo Pinheiro on a new collection which marries porcelain with ceramics.
Gudrun by Claudia Schiffer for Vista Alegre and Bordallo Pinheiro will be available in stores worldwide from October. Following the success of the Cloudy Butterflies decorative and dinnerware ranges, this new design collection from Schiffer is only the second time, the two storied brands have launched a product range together.
Porcelain with Vista Alere
Marking Schiffer’s debut porcelain collection, the partnership with Vista Alegre, who this year celebrate their 200-year anniversary, introduces an elegant new 7-piece dinnerware range, which references heritage porcelain craftsmanship. New pieces include dinner plates, soup, and bread plates, as well as a teapot, teacups, and saucers with a fall-inspired motif of oak leaves, acorns, and squirrels reflecting Schiffer’s daily life in rural England.
For Bordallo Pinheiro, Schiffer has designed hand-painted ceramics featuring woodland animals and birds, such as foxes and woodpeckers in a more playful, figurative style. Autumnal influences are also embraced, as the collection boasts a rich colour palette from forest green to tones of mustard, chestnut, and crimson, echoing the transformative beauty of the season.
New additions range from acorn boxes, water jugs and platters to a 7-piece series of leaf wall hangings all designed and used by Schiffer in her own homes. Both collections, named after Schiffer’s late mother, Gudrun Schiffer, an avid gardener, draw inspiration from childhood memories in the family’s garden and surrounding countryside.
name and is dedicated to all my childhood memories connected to the countryside. Watching the squirrels from my bedroom window, collecting acorns,
techniques. As for the colours and paints, several tests were performed to find the exact tones envisaged by Claudia Schiffer, which also realistically
Schiffer adds “Gudrun is the name of my latest porcelain collection with Vista Alegre and ceramic collection with Bordallo Pinheiro. It’s my late mother’s
and drawing on them whilst my mother gathered the fall leaves. Listening to the woodpeckers and falling asleep to the bird songs. These memories inspired me to create these new collections. The drawings are very me and I’m so proud of the outcome.”
The development of the shapes and patterns followed Bordallo Pinheiro’s traditional
reflect the motifs represented. Speaking about the collection, Nuno Barra, board member of Vista Alegre and Bordallo Pinheiro says:, “This collection is very special for us. Firstly, it’s a privilege to work with Claudia Schiffer; we started our collaboration with Cloudy Butterflies, and the whole process has been extremely seamless, Claudia has her own vision filled with ideas based on many themes that she has experienced throughout her extraordinary career. Furthermore, it’s always a challenge to bring together the two brands - Vista Alegre and Bordallo Pinheiro. The result exceeded our expectations!”
The Gudrun photoshoot was styled by Schiffer herself in her family home, Coldham Hall in Suffolk.
“Gudrun
is the name of my latest porcelain collection with Vista Alegre and ceramic collection with Bordallo Pinheiro. It’s my late mother’s name and is dedicated to all my childhood memories connected to the countryside”
From Zwiesel Glas, the vases from the Waters series might be seen as a return to nature: the unique blend of colour and tint evoking a tempestuous river, the organic shapes inspired by forces of nature. An exhilarating interplay of light and shade, caused by translucent, transparent structural colouring, creates a unique atmosphere in any room. Waters comes in two different sizes and five colours. As in nature, each vase is unique, and is handcrafted in Zwiesel using traditional glassmaking techniques of the very highest quality.
www.zwiesel-glas.com
While Alessi has a host of incredible decorative pieces in its remit, the Anna G. corkscrew – originally designed in 1994 by Alessandro Mendini – is a classic. Joined by its companion piece Alessandro M. roughly ten years later, together the duo make for an iconic couple. To celebrate the memorable pair of corkscrews designed by her father Alessandro, Fulvia Mendini has imagined a fairy tale in an oak forest where the two characters dance in an endless search for desires and secrets. Thus were born two new arboreal dresses, two eye-catching patterns that enhance the soft and delicate design of these iconic corkscrews. In this limited edition, they wear original poetic accessories and are further embellished by an exclusive metal surface treatment.
www.alessi.com
Decorative tabletop – be it a sculptural investment piece or a less expensive trend item – is as important for dressing the home as any dinnerware collection. In fact, they are probably what catches the eye the most! TI seeks out some of the more interesting pieces on the market…
Melissa Raynor, VP sales & home décor product development
What is trending in decorative tabletop?
Decorative tabletop vases that replicate the look of timeless stone and natural materials in grey, taupe, and white textured finishes are selling well at our retailers. Coloured glass vases with ribbed decorative detailing are also selling well.
Vases are such an integral part of tablescaping, are they still popular with buyers?
Yes, vases are giftable and sell well year-round as customers purchase them to give to their friends and family filled with flowers for special occasions.
Is any material type proving to be in demand?
We have seen colour glass vases increase in demand both with our retail brick and mortar buyers and our ecommerce customers.
S|P Collection
www.finediningandliving.eu
Embodying the essence of sophisticated refinement, the Cave vases add harmony to any space. Made from high-quality stoneware, this anthracite vase adds sophistication to any room. Its unique design is perfect for displaying blooms or delicate stems.
Together with South African based artist Victoria Verbaan, Heinen Delfts Blauw has launched a new collection wall plates. The theme for this collection is the beauty and strength of women, in all their shapes and forms. The round shape of the plate almost acts as a magnifying glass, that puts the focus on certain parts of the female body. The artist has a very fluid and quick way of painting so the artwork never feels overdone. “My goal is to paint women who all represent something different, but they are all fiercely optimistic, surreal and full of dreams,” says Victoria about her collection for Heinen Delfts Blauw. Her collection also incorporates the gold trend, by adding subtle strokes of gold paint to the edges of the plates. www.heinendelftsblauw.com
To mark the French maison’s 260th anniversary, Baccarat has collaborated once again with Dutch designer Marcel Wanders for a collection of pieces, from vases and votives to lighting and more, inspired by the striking size and grandeur of Baccarat’s past World’s Fair exhibitions.
The eight-piece New Antique anniversary collection is a continuation of a partnership which first began in 2014 when Marcel Wanders and Baccarat debuted the New Antique vase.
Fusing the purity of crystal with the sophistication of white Carrara marble, the New Antique piece was designed to surprise. Today, ten years later, New Antique takes on another dimension with a collection of original pieces that echo Baccarat's acclaimed masterpieces from major World Fairs. www.baccarat.com
In 1855, during the first Parisian Universal Exposition, Baccarat presented candelabras more than seventeen feet tall and chandeliers containing 140 lights. The feat underlined Baccarat’s supremacy in the area of lighting.
What is trending in decorative tabletop?
We all are enjoying that now there are, literally, a world of possibilities available in decorative tabletop.
The decorative tabletop landscape is exploding with excitement with new options! We are now interested in handcrafted pieces, vintage-inspired designs, and the happy resurgence of vibrant colours in innovative materials like glass, resin, ceramics, and metals has created a truly inspiring moment.
I’ve been having the best time working with colour and so excited to have the opportunity to curate collections that are not only beautiful but also meaningful and energizing. Vases, candlesticks, and stunning colours serving pieces are among the trends that I’m most enthusiastic about.
Vases are such an integral part of tablescaping, are they still popular with buyers?
A floral element is always essential in tablescaping, so vases will always be popular. I’m finding success with Murano inspired glass bud vases. With substantial weight, playful colours and flirty ruffled tops, my new Vento bud vases catch the light and add decorative sparkle to any setting. Available in two sizes and six colours, they’re made to mix and match for artistic tablescapes.
Is any material type proving to be in demand?
Decorative tabletop items in gorgeous colours in metal trimmed in gold were our most popular items at Summer 2024 markets, they outsold all other categories and materials for us. Called Encanto the collection is full of wonderful, enamelled colours and gold-tone details on bowls, trays, picture frames and more – were instant bestsellers and a huge hit with retailers.
Is there growth in the decorative sector? In particular to with potential to sell into larger houseware outlets and gift retailers?
During Covid, we all looked more carefully at the interiors of our homes, and that started a huge movement and gave great impulse to the growth in the decorative tabletop sector. Today, much of the decorative art on the market is mass produced, but some of us still strive to preserve ancient handcrafting arts. Handcrafted objects hold a special energy, a certain magic, each piece tells a story through its subtle imperfections. The texture you feel, the weight you hold – these become reminders of the human hands behind it.
The decorative arts sector is experiencing significant growth, particularly among larger houseware outlets and gift retailers.
Orrefors recently introduced a new highly anticipated mini vase series that perfectly marries two Swedish traditions – the country’s most popular holiday and Orrefors’ design excellence. Midsummer is a series of seven elegant mini vases, designed by internationally renowned architect and design studio Claesson Koivisto Rune. The series is inspired by the old Midsummer’s-Eve tale, where collecting seven types of flowers – to be placed under your pillow – will bring you love and fortune on the longest day of the year. The seven mini vases of the Midsummer series showcase an unconditionally Scandinavian sleek and timeless design whilst each vase maintains its own confident and distinct character. www.orrefors.com
Vibrantly coloured stripes are borrowed from traditional Polish costumes and decoration in LSA’s Folk Collection. Staggered bands of alternating colour mimic Łowicki fabrics, and the exaggerated silhouettes of layered, billowing skirts are seen in the wide, undulating vase shapes. www.lsa-international.com
Maurits Heinen, business developer
What is trending in decorative tabletop?
Striped vases have been enjoying a moment, for example, is that still the case?
Striped vases are still very popular.
I think that trend is here to stay for another year at least. Especially in combination with the whole mediterranean look and feel. If you look at fashion for example, stripes always come and go. Right now, stripes are on trend again. Here at Heinen Delfts Blauw we also follow this trend and in 2025 we launch a new collection of vases with stripes and dots, combine with very traditional Delft blue decorations. What we see in general is that vases with more decorations seem to do better than vases with no decorations at all. The whole ‘less is more’ trend is out, and over the top, bold statement vases are in.
Vases are such an integral part of tablescaping, are they still popular with buyers?
“Our collaboration with the artist Nic FiddianGreen has gone from strength to strength. It is one of our most successful art collaborations to date and we are thrilled to introduce a new colourway in deep emerald green, which launched in our London boutiques in September. We have clients from all over the world who have bought the pieces in multiple colourways - black, clear and a golden amber crystalcreated by hand at our factory in Alsace."
Frederick Fischer, UK managing director, Lalique speaking about Lalique unveiling a new collection in deep green crystal from the British artist Nic Fiddian-Green. Still Water in amazon green is the latest addition to Lalique’s successful collaboration with the artist, which initially launched in 2021.
Vases are very popular with buyers and that is not something that we believe will change any time soon. A vase is such a simple, yet effective tabletop decoration. One single vase can alter the entire look of the table. So at Heinen Delfts Blauw we offer the complete picture. We create Delft blue tableware collections, and matching vases are an important part of the collection. When you use the same decoration on your centerpiece vase as on your dinner plates for example, the whole setting comes alive. Plates lie flat on the table so it’s very twodimensional, while a vase elevates the decoration and makes it three-dimensional. It also contributes to the atmosphere at the table and can be used to divide a large table into more cosy corners. Our buyers can’t get enough of matching, decorated vases in all sorts of sizes and shapes.
Is there growth in the decorative sector? In particular with potential to sell into larger homeware outlets and gift retailers?
We still expect growth in the decorative sector. The gift retailer is a market which cannot be underestimated and still has a lot of potential. Everybody loves to give a good gift so this is definitely one of our focal points when we put our new collections together. There are a few large homeware outlets and gift retailers in the Netherlands, that sell our collections and it is important to make your products stand out. So we give a lot of attention to detail of our packaging, our storytelling, foam boards and posters. If you make sure the whole picture is complete, a larger homeware outlet or gift retailer can be a great way to present your products to a new and larger audience.
Donna Ferrari
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.
Our trend analyst, Donna Ferrari, comments on next-level trends in tableware. These include florals with a flourish, colour sightings, patterns with a story to tell, discreet design, and designs with humour…
Petals portrayed with a flourish of tactile techniques to those created with ancestral artistry feature broadly across the landscape of many of the newest, prettiest and most traditional dinnerware products.
At Williams Sonoma, the store’s floral and honeycomb motifs on the Honeycomb Embossed appetiser plate are portrayed using a raised texture, a decorating technique trending across the market for white dinnerware creations. Lenox’s Wildflower dinnerware’s incised design creates a tactile feel that cues casual. From Rosenthal, the Bloom Collection includes shapes inspired by hibiscus flower heads and colours named Lava, Scarlet and Snow Wedgwood’s Wild Strawberry Inky Blue pattern, a redux of the 1964 debut pinkish-red best seller, employs a bright blue giving the design’s floral buds and berries a refresh whilst honouring the tradition of blue and white patterns on English fine bone china. Serex and Marni’s Blossom Milk dinnerware, in the Midnight Flowers Collection, caters to the trend for quirky, nontraditional designs. To celebrate its bicentennial, Vista Alegre turns back the clock with the launch of Herança, a hand-painted dinnerware
A trend for more colours is breaking into the widespread neutral tones in tableware. Somewhat different from open stock, a leading trend in creating a tableware collection is to offer each piece in all the colours available in the range. Like ordering from a menu this allows customers to choose pieces to match or mix according to their taste. Palettes gaining traction include a push for pastels and for ones that dazzle. Noticeable are colours borrowed from gemstones, coastlines and pearls. Shades inspired by the good feelings they promote are another trending idea.
Ginori 1735’s new Diva Collection reimagines the brand’s original Compasso d’Oro award-winning 1954 Colonna dark blue stackable dinnerware— icons of 1950s modernism, with a palette of gentle pastels: Celeste, Rosa, Verde, and Giallo. Rosenthal’s Kumi Collection features break-resistant porcelain with a woven texture inspired by Kumihimo, a Japanese art form for making decorative braids and cords. This craftinspired texture is complimented in four low-key pastel colours: Tones of White, Blue, Rose, and Mint. Ahead of the colour trend, New Orleans' Atelier Collection introduced Encanto, a hand-sand-cast metalware line incorporating an array of enamelled colours trimmed in gold. The collection includes frames, accent and serving pieces, and the figure-8 Double Ice Bucket shown in turquoise. Rosenthal meets Versace’s baroquestyle Barocco pattern accessorises the table with items offered in Rose, Teal, and Haze. Lenox’s Tuscany Classics Iridescent Glassware Sets are available in wine, coupe, and flute glasses. The multicoloured opalescent effect creates a dazzling rainbow-like appearance.
Zwiesel Glas offers its hand-blown Ink wine glass range in five colours: Antique Red, Emerald Green, Purple, Midnight Blue, and Ochre Green; in step with the trend for purchasing mixed colours, each glass comes individually packaged. Portmeirion in four colours: Moonstone, Rose Quartz, Amethyst, and Aquamarine named after minerals known for their healing, calming, and spiritual properties. The collection is made from recycled clay and packaged in recycled and recyclable materials. Kosta Boda’s Meadow Spring vase, available in three sizes, was designed by Sara Persson. The confetti-like burst of colours is achieved by rolling the vase in crushed pieces of coloured glass during production, making each piece unique. At Villeroy & Boch the Perlemor Collection, a name that translates as Danish for mother-of-pearl, features a pearlescent reactive glaze offered in Alga, Sand, and Coral, three coastal-inspired colours related to the trend for relaxed lifestyles.
In dinnerware, the idea of patterns inspired by stories, memories, and personal experiences, continues as a meaningful trend. Often, a narrative-inspired pattern emerges across pieces with different yet coordinated designs within the dinnerware collection— in sum, creating a whole story tablescape. Trending too are discreet designs, meaning those that use abstract imagery or are expressed through texture and form as the source of the pattern.
At Royal Delft, the Dutch Dawn Collection is inspired by the long tradition of the Delft Blue style of painting. Each of the ten pieces in the range depicts a different aspect of a Dutch landscape at dawn. The Abysses Collection from Maison Raynaud, created in collaboration with artist-illustrator Aurore de la Morinerie, draws inspiration from the deep and swirling marine world. The abstract imagery in the collection showcases Morinerie’s exploration of Chinese brush painting techniques. The Prada Home's Checkerboard pattern harks back to the black and white marble floor in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, the location of the Prada flagship store. At Hering Berlin, the plates in the Evolution Collection exhibit the designer, Stephanie Hering’s, interest in making tableware in sculptural forms for creative culinary presentation. MS + WE collaborative venture between celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson and retailer West Elm. The Marcus Samuelsson capsule collection of home furnishings, textiles, and tableware, includes the texture-driven Carved Pattern dinnerware. Samuelsson's designs are influenced by his Ethiopian heritage, Swedish upbringing, and New York City home base.
Tableware with a playful sense of humour, and daring, unconventional design is no longer confined to a niche category and has become a trend, embraced by independent design studios and big brands alike.
Richard Brendon X Print Club London is a collaboration between the Richard Brendon tableware brand and the London screenprinting studio and gallery. The collectable mugs in the line showcase the work of emerging talents. Here, the Comet mug’s décor, created by storyteller Margaux Carpentier, serves as a gateway to an otherworldly dreamscape. From Iittala, the Taika Sato Collection ( sato meaning harvest in Finnish) offers a range of dinnerware and accent pieces featuring whimsical still lifes of imaginary fruits and vegetables designed by Klause Haapaniemi on shapes created by Heikki Orvola. At Möbius Keramikk, a daring piece of decorative art is on view, and for use, in the Tall Pitcher designed by Christina Osheim; available in red, black and yellow. Dibbern’s Brasserie Collection illustrates foods and delicacies used in French cuisine in playful, animated images created by artist Anna Pascher using her signature navy colour. Jensen presents the designer Verner Panton’s norm-defying, unconventional approach to design in the new Pantone Tray collection. The original Panton Tray was first created in sterling silver in 1988, and, at the time, was humorously nicknamed “Crash.” This edition, referencing the designer's passion for vibrant colours, is available in blue, black, pink and green powder-coated glass, as well as mirror-polished stainless steel.
The cocktail glass. When has a singular piece of glass ever conveyed so much? It speaks of style, it speaks of substance, it speaks of exuberance, sophistication, fun – the list is endless. As we enter party season, the cocktail glass will once again find itself the very centre of attention, deservedly so! We highlight some of the best on the market…
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The Juno Collection is now in stock!
Whether it is online or in-store, the retail landscape is a challenging one. We speak with a selection of global tabletop brands to learn how they are approaching consumers…
How would you describe the retail scene in your sales territory?
The retail scene in our sales territory is very trend sensitive. Retail is constantly asking for new products and developments, so you need to adapt quickly to trends and sometimes be bold enough to set the trend instead of following it. This can sometimes be challenging but it makes the reward even bigger.
Is online your primary avenue to the consumer or High Street stores?
Both online and High Street stores are equally as important to us. We see that the world has changed to an online environment in the past few years, which we quickly adapted to, but High Street stores are still very important for our business too. I think it is a golden combination, in which one reinforces the other. Our Heinen Delfts Blauw stores in the high streets of Amsterdam and Delft draw new and existing customers in. Here they get to see, touch and hold our new products in person.
We also explain the making process of Delft blue earthenware in our stores and in some of our shops customers can even follow a workshop Delft blue painting. This all helps to build a relationship between our customer, ourselves and our products. Our online shop reaches other customers, nearer to home, but also worldwide. I think online and offline visibility creates a feeling of trust, service and quality. For example, a customer walks into our shop. He sees our products, holds them, feels the quality of them and chats with the store manager. When
he is home he might take a look at our website and discovers many more products. He is now more inclined to order online and have it sent to his home address. Or if fears the items might break in the post, he can choose for collection in one of our stores. By having an online and offline presence we feel we can offer a much better customer service and create a feeling of trust. Having said that, we do think that the online market has a bigger potential for the future. Do you have a direct-to-consumer strategy and is it effective, or something you would consider?
We have several direct-to-consumer strategies which are very effective.
How does your brand work closely with retailers to deliver the best results?
We work very closely with our retailers. This is very beneficial for the retailers but also for us. Because we serve the end consumer as well, we have a lot of information about the buying behavior of different end consumers. We can help the retailer a lot by sharing which collections will be best suited for their end consumers and how to display these collections.
Rachel Dietrich Senior director ecommerce, over&back
“We feel the retail store has become the “showroom’ for any brand and customers still want to see and feel the product before buying”
How does your brand work closely with retailers to deliver the best results?
We view our retailers as true partners and hope to share as much information with them as to what design trends we are seeing in the market and at shows as we can. We also keep a pulse on the market by subscribing to sales data which shows us category size, growth rates, competitors, and top keywords to help inform what we design into and share this information with our retail partners as well. Are consumers buying from online or instore, in your opinion?
We are seeing shoppers buying from both. In fact, we feel the retail store has become the “showroom’ for any brand and customers still want to see and feel the product before buying. So having product that is in store for a “virtual try-on” and then often the actual order or re-order may be through an online channel. It is really the best of both worlds.
Head of international sales retail, Sambonet
How would you describe the retail scene in your sales territory?
The retail scene in our sector is very fragmented – there are many small retailers and few direct retail stores.
In the last number of years, small local retailers have been suffering and there are not so many new openings.
Is online your primary avenue to the consumer or High Street stores?
For sure the online is getting more and more important, but at the moment High Street stores are the ones that still generate a higher turnover.
The sales experience is important for us – in the physical store our products get a great added value by looking, feeling and touching them. Do you have a direct-to-consumer strategy and is it effective, or something you would consider?
At the moment, direct sales are managed online only. Opening direct stores now is not in the plan. But, being Arcturus – an important group with many brands – it could be an option in the future.
How does your brand work closely with retailers to deliver the best results?
Retailers and distributors are regularly visited to listen their exigences, the changes in their market and consumers. We try to act fast to fulfill exigences and needs.
Are consumers buying from online or instore, in your opinion?
I guess both. Of course, our category is still the one in which the final consumer prefers to see and touch before investing an important amount of money in tableware products, but fast deliveries and logistic reasons make online very attractive above all for brands like ours which guarantee quality for the end consumer.
“We try to act fast to fulfill exigences and needs”
Hayley Baddiley, Global marketing director, Denby
How would you describe the retail scene in your sales territory?
The market for homewares continues to be tough with consumers still nervous to spend on non-discretionary items, however with the change in season and summer leisure spending complete, we are anticipating an upturn for the upcoming peak trading months, particularly for brands like Denby which consumers see as a sound investment.
Is online your primary avenue to the consumer or High Street stores?
Denby is a multichannel brand both in the UK and in our overseas markets with each channel playing a strong role in the customer journey.
Do you have a direct-to-consumer strategy and is it effective, or something you would consider?
We have a clear direct-to-consumer strategy in all of our markets, though also continue to strongly support quality retailers who play an important role in servicing Denby buyers preferring to buy from multi-category and other specialist retailers in both physical stores and online.
How does your brand work closely with retailers to deliver the best results?
Denby has a strong training and marketing support programme for our partners - from training sessions, visits to the Pottery to really understand the provenance, values and beauty of Denby, marketing materials bespoke to the sectors we work with be that domestic retail, or in Horeca.
“Denby has a strong training and marketing support programme for our partners - from training sessions, visits to the pottery to really understand the provenance, values and beauty of Denby, marketing materials bespoke to the sectors we work with be that domestic retail, or in Horeca”
We appreciate that the ‘sell-in’ is only half the job - we work with our partner retailers and their teams to also drive the ‘sell-out’ through instore materials, merchandising support, an online asset bank partners can access to create Denby content and many collaborative marketing activities. As well as listening to our retailers and their feedback on product designs, we work closely with them on how to most effectively promote Denby through key selling periods too.
Are consumers buying from online or in-store, in your opinion?
Both channels are still very relevant. For higher value, more considered purchases in particular, a consumer often needs to see the product physically and get expert customer service and guidance before making a final decision regardless of where they then choose to fulfil their purchase. The key is offering choice and flexibility to today’s consumer by having a strong omni-channel presence.
The Wilmax cutlery collection is growing. The succinct design of the new Podium collection was instantly spotted and admired by the visitors at the most recent trade fairs. Each item of this collection has a good thickness, all items are nicely balanced. Made of stainless steel, the new Podium collection has an elegant classic shape with geometric lines on the handles. This new collection comes in five colours: sliver, gold, bronze, black onyx and champagne, and a mirror finish.
To produce its cutlery, Wilmax uses high-quality 18/10 stainless steel. The products are safe, easy to use, not prone to corrosion and deformation. A gold, champagne, bronze and black wear-resistant coating, made by a modern vacuum deposition method, allows the cutlery of the Podium series to maintain their presentation quality, withstand heavy use and frequent use in the dishwasher.
www.wilmax.uk
From supporting retailers with visual merchandising to producing products that are really made to last, we speak with key cutlery suppliers to learn more about how they support their customers…
Broadly speaking, cutlery is not an everyday purchase. Bar add-on accessories, sales of entire sets are reserved for big occasions – think weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, new homes. So, manufacturers and suppliers tend to produce quality, steering away from fastfashion trends, instead putting
the focus on longevity for a higher focused price point.
“Flatware and cutlery sets would be a one-off considered purchase for most consumers, and not something that is bought regularly,” agrees Elia’s sales manager Adam Walker.
“However, there is always the need to purchase additional
accessories such as serving items, or replacement items.
“At Elia we provide long-term commitment to our cutlery ranges and have many retailers selling our cutlery ranges in pieces, which allows our customers to top up their collection with missing items to ensure many years of happy
Mikasa Bravo has a simple teardrop shape and shiny finish with a gently ridged edge for added definition and style. This set enhances both modern and traditional table settings with its simple detailing. The convenient caddy features six compartments to keep flatware neat and organized and can be carried easily from drawer to table. This beautifully made flatware is crafted of superior-quality 18/10 stainless steel. The caddy is made of an MDF wood veneer with a natural finish and a rubber wood bottom. www.mikasa.com
use, without having to replace the full set.”
Robert Welch’s Katie Cryer, national account manager – UK trade retail, agrees with the frequency in which consumers look to buy cutlery. “Flatware purchases mark key milestones in life... These significant moments include wedding gifts, and later on, as families grow and couples have more disposable income, the desire to upgrade and replace older items with better ones becomes more prominent.”
It’s something echoed by Sambonet, with product manager Elisabetta Mo pointing out Sambonet flatware is made to last.
“This means the same set of cutlery can be passed down from generation to generation. However, the world of cutlery also incorporates some typical elements of the fashion market: great classics aside, new trends in mise en place are born every year. This increases the frequency of purchase. In
addition, table enthusiasts are used to owning multiple sets of cutlery, one for each occasion or mise en place.”
The right cutlery can elevate a place setting beyond the ordinary, which is why so many venues invest so heavily in the right pairing for their restaurants. Just recently the acclaimed 5-star Hôtel du Cap, Eden Roc, commissioned Swiss manufacturer sknife to produce an exclusive bespoke cutlery collection, inspired by the ocean. The result is an exquisite example of the finest craftsmanship.
For retail, presenting sets and caddies on a shop floor can present its own challenges, so how do suppliers address the issue?
“Effective flatware displays can significantly impact sales,” Sambonet’s Elisabetta Mo says. “Our retailers’ stores vary greatly in size, assortment and display space. Therefore, a visual merchandising strategy designed ad hoc in consultation with the customer is needed for each of them. We have many PoS materials to suit each one’s needs. Sambonet has an in-house visual merchandising that intervenes directly in the retailer’s structure in case of specific needs.”
Robert Welch also works hard to support its network of retailers, providing a range of solutions for flatware displays. For example, the brand’s 7-piece place setting is showcased on A-Frames as a
www.wmf-professional.com
Is there a market for kids’ flatware? And if so, is it growing?
“The children’s flatware market is substantial and teaching them how to hold flatware from a young age helps foster lifelong skills and appreciation. Children’s flatware also makes a thoughtful christening gift. Additionally, children love having matching flatware sets like their parents, as it gives them a sense of maturity and inclusion.”
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.
Katie Cryer, national account manager – UK trade retail, Robert Welch
“There is a market for kids’ cutlery and it is growing. Parents are increasingly seeking products that are safe, durable and appealing to children. Safety and ergonomics go first in the design of this cutlery: the knife blades and prongs of the cutlery are blunted and the dimensions are specially designed to be grasped and used with ease by children. Not only that, fun and colourful designs are essential to make mealtimes more enjoyable for children.”
Elisabetta Mo, product manager, Sambonet
“Children’s cutlery is currently a small, niche market. This is a great option for gifting with some unique designs available. As a company Elia have not seen considerable demand for children’s cutlery.”
Adam Walker, sales manager, Elia
Sambonet draws from its past to look forward with a new special collection, 100. This collection is born from the brand’s desire to create simply beautiful, contemporary cutlery capable of expressing understated elegance. Starting with the handle, 100 is thin and slightly arched, appearing as a line that gently reaches the table. The bowls of the fork and spoon provide stability to the cutlery, creating a unique interplay of shapes and balances. Made of stainless steel, the new 100 cutlery is offered in a full range with the classic mirrored stainless steel finish and, for a warmer and rarer taste, in a gold PVD version. All of this is enclosed in a special box that—during Sambonet’s rebranding year—rediscovered the company’s heritage and dedication to design, opening a story of authenticity and uniqueness. www.sambonet.com
sknife knives are handcrafted in the watchmaking city of Biel. The design has been awarded with 4 international prizes, and the knives arenow used in the world‘s finest hotels &restaurants, boastinga total of 250 Michelin Stars.
Thanksto the innovative surgical steel, the knives are suitable forrestaurants by the sea and on yachts.
key feature, allowing customers to pick up, touch, and experience the quality firsthand.
“Our point-of-sale materials and brochures clearly explain set configurations, including the number of settings, and we place a strong emphasis on comprehensive product training. We’re continually exploring ways to enhance and simplify the in-store purchasing experience,” Katie explains.
Similarly, Elia has a full support remit available to its retail partners: “Elia has worked with many retailer partners in developing stylish and compact gift box packaging for our new 24-piece sets. These sets are presented in stylish black and silver gift box packaging for presentation in store, additionally we have developed mail order packaging for ease when shipping for online customers,” Adam says. “By taking on comments from our
customers we ensure the highest standards of merchandising and display to suit the retailer’s needs
“Additionally, for larger rollouts we can provide custom built point of sale units for merchandising and display in store. As part of our process, we work collaboratively with the retailer to ensure the highest standard of merchandising to match and fit within the store.”
There is plenty of innovation in the market too. “At thinKitchen we are seeing a global shift towards the use of recycled stainless steel in flatware,” says CEO Anand Baldawa. “Stainless steel is 100 per cent recyclable and is a sustainable choice for the environmentally conscious, modern kitchen and home. In addition to this, many of thinKitchen’ s contract manufacturing customers are also seeking sustainable packaging options. Both, bode well for the long term.”
“Flatware purchases mark key milestones in life”
Katie Cryer, Robert Welch
For their part, Sambonet mostly see innovation in the finish of the product, says Elisabetta Mo. “Sambonet offers a wide range of colors and textures. The processing of steel gives rise to vintage - an aged effect - and antique - a matte effect, pleasant to touch. PVD treatment gives rise to multiple colours such as black, gold, copper, champagne to have the right cutlery for each mise en place or mood.”
“For larger rollouts we can provide custom built point of sale units for merchandising and display in store”
Adam Walker, Elia
Elia recently developed the new Flow cutlery range which has a unique textured finish.
Flow is produced with a stylish debossed detail on the handle and features an ergonomic design with a generous gauge. Flow owes its charm to its gentle curves that streamline into an elegant angular handle. Expertly crafted to an exceptionally high specification in the highest quality 18/10 stainless steel. Flow is debossed with a delicate, sophisticated pattern, perfect for contemporary dining or gifting. www.elia.co.uk
Gold has enjoyed a real resurgence in popularity on the high street – and not just gold, we are talking bright, yellow gold! Watch as the opulence trickles down and we find it adorning our tables once again…
We’ve seen gold feature heavily on the high street in recent years and now it’s time to celebrate it in our homes –particularly in tabletop where it is due a huge resurgence. There is, of course, no escaping the fact gold tableware
has had a place at the table for eons – Royal Crown Derby have always done, and still do –gold beautifully, for example.
Excitingly, other brands are approaching gold in an innovative and fun way, be it
Herend , Porcel , Dibbern or Porcelana Ćmielów , there is plenty on the market at different price points to make for interesting choices on the shop floor. Whether in a restaurant setting where it must hold up to the demands of a professional kitchen as valiantly as other decoration, or making a visual impact in a retail setting – having gold on the table speaks volumes.
personality we suggest mixing pieces with our Or Collection. The union of reactive and gold creates an incredible texture that gives this collection a mesmerising visual effect, as well as making it remarkably tactile.”
something trend-led but equally timeless in terms of shape and appeal.
Porcel – the powerhouse female-led brand fronted by president Ana Roque – does gold beautifully. In fact, they tell Tableware International one of their “defining features is the creation of porcelain pieces with gold details, always combining quality and sophistication”.
“For a bold table with a strong
For a more discreet table Porcel suggest their Premium Gold Collection. “The elegant pieces are hand painted with a gentle touch of gold for a perfect and unique table set,” they say.
The addition of some gold flatware can really elevate a table, and it doesn’t have to be uber high-end for those dipping their toes into the trend. Look at the Viners Purity Gold series, ideal for stores wanting to offer customers
To Poland now to visit Porcelana Ćmielów , this brand has been delivering collections with gold details for many moons and the Alaska collection is one of the first I think of when I think “gold details” – it’s beauty is in its simplicity. The porcelain collection actually comes in a day and night version inspired by the polar day (the white option) and the polar night (deep cobalt) and is hand-painted in high-carat gold. Another collection I really love from Ćmielów Design Studio is System – this boasts an integrated design in which cup
and saucer are joined together by a grooved surface. The models in the collection (available in black and white) were created using 3D printing and the design really pops with the gold painted interior.
From interior gold detailing to exterior – Denby is launching its new porcelain Jasmine collection this autumn which taps into the trend for gold with its subtle detailing. The new collection offers a “soft and subtle pattern featuring layers of swirls and heart motifs in a delicate gold lustre finish against a white
glaze on Denby’s made in England porcelain”. Interestingly, Jasmine has been inspired by the Denby archives and of course, there are also matching placemats and coasters.
To Germany now where we meet Dibbern who offer several beautifully executed collections featuring gold details.
“Designer Bodo Sperlein created some standout decors for Dibbern,” the brand tells Tableware International. “Golden Forest and Gold Leaf are inspired by nature: the delicate designs, restaurant favourites, elegantly
drawn branches and leaves across the products. Golden Pearls and Goldfever are abstract and minimalistic, yet sophisticated, as the gold detailing elevates their simplicity.”
For their part, Dibbern says their gold collections speak of refined elegance. “After the firing process, each decor is carefully polished by hand to achieve a silky matte sheen. The pieces are visually stunning and, in addition, practical, made dishwasher-safe through the glazing technique, ensuring longevity.
“We offer a versatile range of
gold decors. These designs are not only harmonious with each other but can also be beautifully mixed with other decors such as Pastel, Carrara, and Fine Bone China White. A variety of combinations is possible, making it easy to create a personalised table setting.”
Staying in Germany, the radiance of the sun and moon was the inspiration for timeless Auréole form, which Fürstenberg first developed in collaboration with the Korean master ceramicist Kap-Sun Hwang. The updated version
From New Edition’s Pip Studio brand comes Dot Delight and it is really fun! The extra-large gold dots make this collection a real stand out. The teapot steals the show, with its classic shape and golden sphere on the lid. The combination of the large shiny gold dots with the gold striped base gives the teapot and matching mug an exciting twist.
created with Clair de Lune
showcases the play between sun and moon. With a highly varied representation of the moon in black, white and 24-carat gold, the designer is constantly creating new snapshots. At first glance, the design appears to be an abstract geometrical pattern, but upon closer inspection it symbolises
lovely way of adding gold to a table without overwhelming the space – ideal for those dipping their toes into the trend.
Dutch brand Heinen Delft
Blauw have just launched a new collection with illustrator Redmer Hoekstra – porcelain mugs
with a difference– Redmer
evoking a sense of Japanese aesthetics with delicate designs resembling scattered gold dust. The shape, HALO, representing radiating light, is adorned with sparkling gold mica, creating a glamorous design.
bowls and cups become the orbit of the heavenly body. It showcases how beautifully gold accents can help tell a story.
Not forgetting Beatriz Ball who recently introduced its new Mystic Collection, a stunning addition to Beatriz Ball’s Thanni line. These unique pieces feature dishwasher-safe white enamel and gold-tone accents, creating a captivating blend of artistry and functionality. “The dynamic designs, inspired by organic movement, add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space,” the brand tells us. Pieces such as this are a really
to elevate different stories.
Next, the very chic Luca glassware collection from International is worth mentioning. This is modernist mouth-blown drinkware with understated metallic decoration. We’ve got generous spherical bowls and tubular stems married to create a contemporary silhouette, and the entire look is elevated by the hand painted thick gold band. Super stylish.
Speaking of stylish, Nikko’s Gold Powder series is just one gold-enhanced collection from the innovative tastemakers. This is a modern series
Narumi has a recently launched collection, the aptly named Luminar. Notw how the pearlescent colourway has been cleverly crafted to reflect room lights, giving food a sparkling backdrop. A showstopper, surely.
NUDE’s Contour series, meanwhile, is another one to get people talking – the collection boasts a thick, contrasting rim which runs the
circumference of its base, creating a visual illusion that makes the bowl seem at once solid and ethereal.
Staying with decorative pieces, the talented Swedish designer Ingegerd Råman designed Lumiere for Orrefors , inspired by her time in Italy. The candlestick showcases a reduced, minimalist shape that perfectly unites the crystalclear transparency of glass and the reflective qualities of metal. Available in both stainless-steel metal and golden metal – it’s a real standout piece and a perfect example of how subtly gold can be brought into the home.
There we have it, plenty of gold beauties to get tantalise buyers.
Floor 6
One of the highlights for Rosendahl Design Group is the launch of their new beer glasses, created in collaboration with renowned Danish brewer Mikkeller, elevating the beer-drinking experience with our signature blend of functionality and design.
They are also expanding the popular Rhombe Color collection with four stunning new earth-tone shades. In addition, they are launching a line extension of the solar-powered lamps, now available in five colours. These eco-friendly lamps are not only solar-charged but also made from recycled plastics, offering over 15 hours of light on a full charge.
Lastly, they are thrilled to introduce Dora, the new collection from Bjørn Wiinblad, full of whimsy and fun. This delightful collection includes a small bonbonniere, a sugar bowl, and a jug perfect for milk or cream, bringing charm to any table setting. www.rosendahl.com
The New York Tabletop Show takes place this October, putting New York centre stage of the North American tableware scene. We preview some top-tier brands who will be exhibiting in 41 Madison…
Floor 19
For over a century, Gense has been a symbol of robust materials, stylish design, and exceptional functionality. This passion for timeless Nordic elegance is vividly reflected in F&H Group’s new Dorotea collection.
Designed by Monica Förster, the collection draws inspiration from the landscape of the small village Dorotea, where she grew up. The undulating lines of the mountains and valleys are mirrored in the collection’s soft, organic shapes. The Dorotea series exemplifies how collaboration between designer and producer can push boundaries in production technology and sustainability efforts. www.fh-group.dk
Thomas Perez, CEO, Rosendahl USA
Why is the NY Tabletop Show an important date in your diary?
The fall show is our last chance to connect with retailers before the holidays. Some retailers find that the summer shows come a bit early to finalize their Q4 commitments, so the October show is an excellent opportunity to reconnect and finalize their product selections before the holiday rush.
How is the North American tabletop market performing?
The year started off strong, with a dip over the summer, but the market is now picking up again. It seems that the focus during the summer months was more on traveling and entertaining, and now that we are heading into fall, the business momentum has returned.
Are you encountering any notable market issues?
We usually see a summer dip as people focus on vacations and travel, but this year felt more significant. There’s a noticeable trend toward consumers spending more on experiences, travel, and entertainment, likely a shift in behaviour after the years of COVID, rather than an overall decrease in spending.
Are you hopeful for a positive Q4 and ending the trading year as predicted?
Absolutely! Q4 has already started strong, and we’re expecting a solid finish to the year. We’ve seen encouraging growth so far, and the outlook remains positive.
Floor 8
Visit the Riedel team at the New York Tabletop Show to see the Burgundy Grand Cru glass. Perfect to support the balance of fragility and fresh compact fruit in light-bodied wines, this shape was one of the original ‘wine friendly’ glasses designed by ninth generation Claus J. Riedel. The wide tulip shape and slightly flared lip highlights the irresistible sweetness, whilst perfectly balancing the acidity and deemphasising the alcohol, to create a perfect picture of the wine. www.riedel.com
Visit Godinger at New York Tabletop Show to see the Lucente Collection. Each unique resin piece is carefully handcrafted and individually poured for the desired shape, resulting in a whimsical marbleized effect. Available in blush, twilight, ocean, and terra.
www.godinger.com
Visit the Orrefors and Kosta Boda teams at the Tabletop Market to see their array of incredible collections including the Crackle Bud Vases from Kosta Boda and Geometry from Orrefors.
The Crackle collection is a tribute to cracks, beautifully preserved in glass. The intriguing design has a sculptural, expressive exterior that is created using an old craft technique, where the hot glass is dipped in ice-cold water.
Meanwhile, spheres, cylinders and cones form the basis of the aptly named series Geometry, a highly anticipated, new mouth-blown tableware series for Orrefors by Swedish architect and designer trio Claesson Koivisto Rune.
www.orrefors.com www.kostaboda.com
Floor 9
www.villeroy-boch.com
The iconic La Boule takes centre stage for Villeroy & Boch during the New York Tabletop Market. Both La Boule Miami and La Petite Boule have their moment in the sun. La Boule Miami is the latest addition to the iconic La Boule line-up. Both art and dinnerware, La Boule Miami is a 7-piece stackable dinner set for two with a retroinspired design and modern highlights. Simple lines, geometric shapes, and on-trend colors of “Intense Rust” and “Future Dusk,” La Boule Miami evokes mid-century modern style.
Meanwilehe, La Petite Boule is built for stylish snacking. This stackable aperitif set consists of five pieces – four bowls and one appetiser plate. La Petite Boule makes the perfect collector’s item or an excellent gift idea.
Linda Levine, president Godinger
Why is the New York Tabletop Show an important date in your diary?
It is an opportunity to showcase our brand with our retail partners, a culmination of our partnerships along with our joint development.
How is the North American tabletop market performing?
Tabletop continues to be an important focus for both suppliers and retailers, both in store and online.
Are you encountering any notable market issues?
There are always obstacles, and you learn to navigate and move forward.
Combining functionality with design and pushing beyond the traditional boundaries of glassware, the new cocktail glasses added to NUDE’s Gravity Collection were designed by Ali Bakova to break the monotony of everyday life and make every sip more special. The four new designs in the Gravity Collection, which evoke the mystery of space and moments when time seems to stop, highlight timelessness with their narrow and solid bases while subtly integrating with a voluminous texture elegantly placed within the designs. Handcrafted from lead-free crystal, the Gravity designs aim to bring vibrancy to users’ lives and their special moments. www.eu.nudeglass.com
A new and inspiring collection manually decorated with delicate motifs inspired by the typical white houses and olive trees of the Southern landscape, celebrating Portuguese traditions.
TI’s Paul Yeomans with Anais Barack from Stölzle Lausitz
Bordallo Pinheiro
The September edition of Maison&Objet wrapped up recently and Tableware International was in Paris, exploring the show…
Maison&Objet welcomed nearly 54,000 visitors to its most recent Paris showcase with a strong international focus prevalent at the event. In fact, nearly 58 per cent of the exhibitors came from abroad, according to organisers, and 27 per cent of those were new brands.
Despite a decline in visitor number of around 10 per cent, which organisers say reflects the difficulties experienced in the market, there were “a noticeable difference in buyer profiles at the show”.
“While the behaviour of retailers, with visits down 12 per cent, reflects the turbulent context in which they are
2,302 brands
615 new brands
63 countries
968 French brands
1334 international brands
operating, particularly in Europe, specifiers and professionals in the HoReCa sector are showing renewed interest, with 16,500 unique visits to this year’s show.”
Tableware International’s Paul Yeomans was in Paris for the event and reported a good show.
“The Cook&Share Hall had a very positive feel to it and it was good to see some key brands in Paris. While the show had a more contained feel to it, all in all, the tableware brands we met were reporting steady visitor flow, certainly on the Friday, it felt busy,” Paul reported.
Maison&Objet is back from January 16 to 20, and from September 4 to 8 next year!
“At the recent September 2024 Maison et Objet show in Paris, several key trends emerged in design and home decor. Sustainability continued to take center stage, with eco-friendly materials, recycled products, and natural finishes dominating the scene.
Minimalism, paired with warmth, was also popular, blending clean lines with cozy, earthy tones and textures.
Handcrafted and artisanal pieces highlighted the shift toward personal, unique designs, while smart home technology integrated seamlessly into modern living spaces.
Additionally, biophilic design— incorporating nature indoors—remained a strong trend, with greenery, organic shapes, and natural light playing a significant role.
While neutral tones set the base, pops of bold color added vibrancy to many collections. Rich jewel tones, like emerald green, deep blue, and mustard yellow, were used to create focal points in otherwise muted settings. This trend brought energy and contrast to interiors, allowing for playful combinations of colors and patterns.”
Rachel Dietrich, senior director ecommerce, over&back
“Jason is a man who does not let the grass grow beneath is feet. He is a fast mover and determined to reshape his empire into his vision for today’s London diners”
Michelin starred chef Jason Atherton is opening not one, not two, but five new restaurants in London – each one different to the next. And he is using G&G Goodfellows to supply his tableware. Valda tells us about working on the project…
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.
One of the most satisfying aspects of what we do, is working with amazing people. From small individual craft producers, talented designers and immensely successful operators, through to some of the world’s best chefs; we are fortunate to have established enduring and special relationships with this industry’s most revered people.
We grew our business by focusing on what chefs wanted from their tableware, as my husband Paul started his career as a chef and worked with some of the UK’s big names before he started our original business, so he knows a thing or two about dealing
with the most mercurial of creative talents.
The business relationships we have fostered, often turned into personal friendships that
might be friendship there, but it is always about being professional on both sides, and there has to be ongoing value built into everything we do. Our aim was always to be
Figgjo can bespoke-decorate on a minimum of 48 pieces, this was a great solution in establishing the identity for each restaurant
have lasted decades for Paul (no, I am not going to tell you how old he is!). These relationships are based on respect and trust. Yes, there
the ‘go-to’ supplier any chef or restaurateur would turn to when they had a new project. We staked our reputation on being big enough to manage
Chef
Jason Atherton is opening five new London restaurants and he tasked G&G Goodfellows with sourcing the tableware...
a turnkey project for a huge catering site one day, but small enough to care about sweating the detail on the tiniest of restaurant openings.
Often it is the smaller projects that are the hardest, as they can be intensely personal because they are personally invested. Whatever the situation, we try our hardest to meet or excel expectations. This is not easy, particularly when we have to import products into the UK and the big black hole that is UK customs clearance often swallows up a delivery. Mostly it feels like trying to navigate the Bermuda Triangle as you can never be sure that what goes in, is ever going to come out again!
So, what is it really like to work with best in our industry?
One of our very best is chef Jason Atherton whose Social Group has established its reputation at the very top of not just the UK’s hospitality scene, with restaurants such as Pollen Street Social, Social Eating House
dining landscape, shockingly closing the mothership of his empire, Pollen Street Social, to embark on an exciting new phase which includes a raft of five new restaurants.
These include Row on 5 in Savile Row Mayfair (on which the concept of Row on 45 was originally based); Three Darlings (named after his three beautiful daughters) on Pavillion Road in Chelsea; Hot Dogs by Three Darlings (in Harrods Foodhall); Sael in St. James Market and Mary’s which is on the Pollen Street Social site (but more casual than its predecessor).
Jason is a man who does not let the grass grow beneath is feet. He is a fast mover and determined to reshape his empire into his vision for today’s London diners.
This is quite a feat, as all five will be launched before the end of the year, having only closed Pollen Street Social last month and Sael has already opened its doors.
When you want to work with the best, you have to try, in every way, to be the best you can and find those around you who can help you achieve it
and Little Social in the UK, but also abroad with Commune Social in Shanghai and Row on 45 in Dubai, for which he was awarded two Michelin stars to name but a few.
More recently, Jason has revamped his collection to meet the much-changed London
too. It is mind-boggling to think how one chef can imagine five individually different restaurants at the same time. Thankfully, we always seem to have the ranges and ideas to match his creativity. Sometimes you don’t have to look too far to find what a chef needs. We are using bespokedecorated Figgjo plates at Hot Dogs by Three Darlings, Three Darlings in Chelsea and Mary’s – all of which have the Social Group logo design (a dropped ‘A’) to create a cohesive identity, while Sael has a minimalist decoration.
decoration for highly individual projects like this.
Pairing the best chefs with the best tableware is what we do, and this was a really quite perfect match.
When it comes to Row on 5, which will be the new fine dining restaurant to be opened in December, its tableware will be chosen to suit the exclusive nature of this very special venue. We can’t wait to tell you about this but we have to be a bit tight-lipped at present!
So, as every one of these projects needs tableware and are different concepts, we are delighted to say Jason picked the phone up to Paul, to ask for his help. Each project, as you would expect, must have its own distinct identity and sense of, not only place, but food style
Jason chose Figgjo because the clean shapes suit his varied dishes on each menu without dominating the food. And as Figgjo can bespoke-decorate on a minimum of 48 pieces, this was a great solution in establishing the identity for each restaurant.
We have long been impassioned promoters of Figgjo because of their dedication to quality, their commitment to sustainability, and their capability in bespoke-
However, you can rest assured it will be a showstopper. If Row on 45 in Dubai has 2 Michelin stars, one can only presume that Michelin will be visiting soon, especially as Spencer Metzger will be heading up the kitchen.
Jason is a perfectionist and visionary who aims to be the best. We asked him why he chooses to work with us, he replied “??”
When you want to work with the best, you have to try, in every way, to be the best you can and find those around you who can help you achieve it.
Alessi is bringing us some festive magic with its new seasonal offering. Delight is a lovely porcelain series in classic Christmas colourways, designed by Slovenian designer Nika Zupanc.
The series of Christmas-themed objects, interpreting traditional symbols such as the Christmas tree and the star, are made in the designer’s distinctive, trendy style.
Inspired by classic Christmas iconography, which often features colours such as white, red and gold, the designer has created a collection comprising a selection of hand-blown glass baubles, a mug, a biscuit jar and a sweet jar.
The porcelain Morning Star mug has been hand-decorated using the decalcomania technique with an enamelled handle. Similarly, the biscuit jar and sweet jars, also in porcelain, has been decorated by hand with gold enamel. And finally, the collection’s glass baubles are hand-blown into shape.
