Over 60 individuals from the UK and Ireland attended the open house at the company’s headquarters in Pfullendorf, Germany.  The event was hosted by ALNO’s UK managing director, John Kinder.

The annual Hausmesse is ALNO’s opportunity to update its dealers on how the business is developing, as well as present new products and innovations for 2009. John Kinder reported that both retail and contract sales were ahead of last year and announced that 10 new ALNO showrooms had also opened this year. 

John Kinder said, ”We’re entering a period of economic uncertainty, but business decisions made in the past year, combined with the development of some fantastic new products mean that ALNO is in a strong position.  Our support for our network of premier dealers will continue at the highest level to help them through these potentially difficult times.”

There was much excitement as ALNO unveiled 30 new displays in the showroom, including inspirational displays for the new handleless kitchen range, ALNOStarLine in gloss, wood veneers and laminate finishes. The new range had been previewed in Milan earlier this year and was one of the stars of the show.

Key trends emerging from ALNO’s Hausmesse, include clean straight lines for kitchen design, rich wood finishes for kitchen units, timeless glossy kitchens in a choice of nature-inspired colours, sumptuous dark wood interior fittings and tactile new handle shapes and finishes. 

Feedback from the dealers was extremely positive.  Premier Dealer, Andy Bradbury of Bradbury’s in Exeter said, “The showroom looks spectacular, the best I have ever seen it. I am updating my showrooms and this trip has been a real inspiration. The new interior fittings look fantastic and I am very excited about the new product ranges.”

Premier Dealer, Wendy Morgan of Moda Interioirs said. “There are a lot of new exciting products, which are sparking my imagination for new displays in my kitchen studio.  I am looking forward to using the new ranges and innovations in customer’s kitchens.”

The event was also a great opportunity for the ALNO dealers to catch up with each other and discuss business. ALNO organised a traditional Bavarian night in the hotel on the first night, which included traditional cuisine and dancers. On the second night, ALNO dealers were treated to a delicious schnitzel dinner at a local restaurant.

John Kinder said, “The trip was a huge success, our dealers have been impressed with the new product ranges and innovations for 2009.”