Villeroy & Boch is a top choice among architects and designers in the premium bathroom segment: Nazario Menezes

German brand Villeroy & Boch has been a leading player in the premium bathrooms segment. But contrary to popular perception in India, the brand is ‘within reach’ of customers seeking premium bathroom solutions. In our latest edition of Expert Talk with BuildingandInteriors, Nazario Menezes, Managing Director, India & Subcontinent Region, Villeroy & Boch AG, Bath & Wellness Division brings out some of the lesser-known facts about the brand, its positioning, and how the company is moving steadily and successfully addressing its target segment in the region. He also discussed the association of Villeroy & Boch with architects, builders, and interior designers, expansion in tier-2 cities, and the future of the premium bathroom market in India in the next couple of years.

B&I: We have been getting feedback on the expansion of Villeroy & Boch in India. Your comments?

Nazario Menezes: Villeroy & Boch has established a strategic presence across India, focusing on market expansion in key metropolitan and tier-2 cities where there is a clear potential for premium and luxury segment offerings. Partner showrooms are spread across most states in India as well as the sub-continent region Dealer locator. The emphasis is not so much on the number of stores but rather on showcasing truly world-class display experiences wherever the brand is present. Villeroy & Boch expresses gratitude to all its authorized business partners for supporting this endeavour.

A glimpse of a few Villeroy & Boch dealer showrooms across India

B&I: How has progress been made in association with architects and interior designers? What are the challenges and opportunities in this segment? Your message to them today.

Nazario Menezes: Villeroy & Boch has forged strong relationships with leading architects and interior designers in India through various engagement programs, workshops, and collaborations on high-end projects. Moreover, architect groups from across India regularly visit the headquarters in Mettlach, Germany, for in-depth factory and showroom visits and brand experiences. The brand’s digital initiatives offer architects various means of reference and guidelines through its Professional Portal and the Villeroy & Boch App.

Reaching out to a wider potential audience with the complete offering requires targeted efforts across the region. There are ample opportunities for growth due to growing urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and a rising trend of luxury home interiors. We also encourage architects and designers to connect directly through our energetic sales and marketing teams or digitally by registering on the Professional Portal. Villeroy & Boch promises a unique experience of cutting-edge design, features, and quality, aiming to redefine elegance and functionality in modern Indian homes.

B&I: How is the progress on the project’s business? Developers and builders are constantly increasing the quality of their projects – your message for such quality-conscious customers?

Nazario Menezes: Villeroy & Boch is already a strong brand in the luxury project segment, with excellent references across the region. The brand is the first choice for several developers due to its comprehensive bathroom solutions, including ceramics, taps, wellness essentials, etc. and the latest features and technologies tailored for project requirements, such as the latest innovation, TwistFlush. Developers looking to offer home buyers special, unique, and best-in-class experiences need not look further than Villeroy & Boch.

B&I: How do you see the premium bathrooms market in India performing over the next 1-2 years?

Nazario Menezes: The premium bathrooms market in India is expected to grow robustly over the next one to two years. Increasing demand for luxury housing, greater awareness of global design trends, and a shift towards branded bathroom solutions are driving this growth. The expanding hospitality sector and upscale residential developments further support this growth.

Villeroy & Boch has maintained its reputation as a brand that not only emphasises quality but has also maintained standards of environmental protection and sustainability. Rising awareness of these issues has enhanced Villeroy & Boch’s presence in the premium bathroom market in India.