In this exclusive interview in the series Channel Partner Talk with BuildingandInteriors, Krunal Sidhapura, Director, Ginger Modular Kitchen and Wardrobes, Mumbai shares insights into the furniture fittings and modular kitchen stores’ journey as a franchise of Blum, shedding light on the unique challenges and standout features that define the industry. From navigating aggressive pricing strategies to harnessing the potential of Mumbai’s growing construction sector, Krunal discusses the key factors shaping the furniture and kitchen fittings industry. With a diverse clientele, Ginger Modular Kitchen and Wardrobes has flourished, leveraging its affiliation with the esteemed brand Blum to offer premium furniture and kitchen fittings at its experience centre in Mumbai.
Continue reading to discover what Krunal Sidhapura has to say about how Ginger Modular Kitchen and Wardrobes, in collaboration with Blum, stays ahead of evolving design trends and anticipates changing customer preferences.
About Ginger Modular Kitchen & Wardrobe
Ginger Modular Kitchen and Wardrobes, situated in Kandivali West, Mumbai, boasts a legacy of 25 years of delivering top-tier kitchen and wardrobe solutions. Our esteemed clientele encompasses diverse professionals such as architects, developers, freelancers, and assemblers.
Experience of running a store of a renowned furniture and kitchen fittings brand in Mumbai
The journey has been nothing short of rewarding. Operating under a reputable brand like Blum, we distribute quality materials while enjoying the associated perks of being an integral part of the brand’s network. With an expansive reach of over 100+ furniture fittings and modular kitchen stores throughout Mumbai, our venture thrives. We generate leads through the Blum Experience Centre in Andheri, Mumbai, with a remarkable 9 out of 10 closing ratio. It’s a great pleasure selling Blum products because their unparalleled quality ensures customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Unique challenges faced in this industry
Navigating the industry, we’ve encountered challenges such as aggressive pricing strategies from competitors who provide furniture solutions at lower prices. Additionally, we observe franchises from other regions encroaching on our territory by selling products directly to freelance resellers. Another significant hurdle is the difficulty in securing payments from retailers on time, which affects our cash flow and operational efficiency.
Standout features of Blum products
Blum sets the bar high in the furniture hardware market with its patented product portfolio, distinguished by innovative design and advanced technology, which are outcomes of thorough research and testing. As a modular kitchen store owner in Mumbai, what truly characterises Blum for me is its dependable and proactive after-sales service.
Thoughts on Mumbai as a furniture fittings industry
Mumbai holds vast potential for the furniture fitting industry, thanks to its position as India’s financial hub teeming with business prospects. Embracing this opportunity is crucial as we observe continued growth in the city’s construction sector. With predictions of sustained growth for the next 8 to 10 years, the future for our industry looks very promising.
Blum’s approach to evolving design trends in furniture and kitchen fittings
Adaptability to design trends is a standout strength for Blum. They maintain an innovative and sophisticated in-house research and development team to understand living spaces and stay on top of emerging trends. This commitment to innovation is evident in the forward-thinking and versatile solutions that Blum consistently presents to the market.
Latest trends and customer preferences
From our experience, we’ve observed a decisive shift among customers towards modular furniture in living spaces, moving away from traditional, carpentry-based pieces. Today’s consumers prioritise easy access, hassle-free installations, and maintenance-free products offering value for money. This trend underscores a broad change in consumer preferences, highlighting their desire for modern and efficient home solutions.
Several Blum products enjoy widespread popularity among our customers. Market favourites include the highly-praised AVENTOS lift systems: HF, HS, HL, and HK series. Another popular Blum innovation is the SERVO-DRIVE motion technology, which allows for effortless electric opening of furniture doors. Our customers appreciate the elegance of the LEGRABOX system, which features slim drawer sides and exceptional loading capacity. Other noteworthy products include MOVENTO runner systems, pull-out shelf locks, under-sink cabinets, and inner divider systems.
To provide a personalised experience, our experience centre employs professional designers who dedicate a minimum of 45 to 60 minutes to walk each customer through our extensive and innovative product range. During this tour, they actively engage with the customers to understand their specific design needs, enabling us to recommend the best solutions that bring their creative furniture visions to life.
Market response to technological advancements and changing lifestyle trends
The furniture fittings market has evolved significantly with technological progress and shifts in lifestyle trends. Customers are enthusiastic about embracing the latest innovations. For instance, Blum’s initial METABOX drawer systems with telescopic channels have evolved to the revised TANDEMBOX antaro and the advanced LEGRABOX drawer systems. These refinements have met with widespread acceptance among our customers.
Support provided by Blum for our furniture fittings store
Blum’s comprehensive training support spans various aspects of our operations and is, frankly, one of the highlights of our partnership. Their extensive training enhances our design team’s expertise, while carpenters and site supervisors receive detailed installation guidance, ensuring all stakeholders are well-informed and adept at handling their products. Even our retail partners benefit from in-depth product knowledge that enables them to advocate for Blum’s offerings. Beyond imparting knowledge, Blum generously provides practical items such as notepads, pens, measuring tapes, signboards, and diaries, which further contribute to the efficiency of our operations.
Challenges facing the furniture and kitchen fittings industry
The furniture and kitchen fittings industry presently faces several pressing challenges. Notably, many entrepreneurs are not implementing correct processes and often confront a shortage of skilled labour, financial limitations, and organisational issues. Moreover, intense competition from the emergence of competitively priced furniture hardware from China and Turkey presents a significant hurdle. This compels local businesses to strategise adaptively to stay competitive.
Insights into design, functionality, and customer satisfaction – Lessons from Blum
Our collaboration with Blum has provided valuable insights into the interplay between design, customer satisfaction, and successful business practices. The primary lesson is the vital role of customer-centric service in the success of a business. Additionally, by running the Blum experience centre in Mumbai we’ve learned the significance of offering competitive pricing, upholding strong work ethics, and focusing on achieving mutual growth.
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To get in touch with Krunal Sidhapura, Ginger Modular Kitchen and Wardrobes, Mumbai, contact below:
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