How has business been for you in the past year?
This year has been busy as we've begun the challenging task of building brand awareness globally, to the luxury markets. Chamberlain operates in retail, private label and hospitality sectors, with 60 per cent of its business in retail.
What have been particular highlights?
After trade visits to Moscow and Qatar we've agreed trading terms, and are beginning to be recognised as the UK's luxury ceramic brand. Our latest news is that the brand is now in Harrods through Carrs Silver, on the second floor, Room - Luxury Home 4, Department Tableware.
What were the challenges in 2016?
The brand was launched in September 2015, so the business is still very fledgling, and we find ourselves naturally competing with ceramics companies with established histories and reputations, in many cases built over many centuries. Our advantage is that we can guarantee our product is manufactured 100 per cent by hand in the UK and we can offer a desirable bespoke service. Our products are beautifully big, and demanding to produce. Demonstrating their scale and beauty is difficult in any media, but once seen, they're forever noted.
What's Chamberlain's international strategy for growth?
Chamberlain will build and forge further relationships within GCC and Russia, and look to spread our wings into the neighbouring countries and satellite states of Russia, with personal visits already confirmed to GCC and Russia. We'll then look to forge relations in the USA and Canada, and South East Asia. We'd welcome agents with specific expertise in the luxury markets in these countries to get in touch.
Which shows will you be at in 2017?
Chamberlain is planning to return to Maison & Objet in September 2017 for the third consecutive year as it's the premier International event for interior design. Also, under consideration are events in South Korea, Moscow and SE Asia.
How does Chamberlain plan to grow in 2017?
We look to continue to build sales and awareness via targeted advertising and social media. We will also build on our email marketing campaigns.