Relationships with internationally renowned design studios were strengthened during a trip to the company’s headquarters in Germany.
Seven visitors from four London-based practices spent two days at Villeroy & Boch Group’s historic headquarters in Mettlach, touring manufacturing facilities and learning about new products in the pipeline.
The visits are part of the company’s ongoing A&D strategy, which focuses on engaging key architects and designers, building relationships and gathering feedback.
The four studios involved – Wimberly Interiors, Studio Moren, David Collins Studio and GA Design – are all London-based but with global reach.
Trips to Mettlach have been a long-standing tradition for Villeroy & Boch Group. This year marked a milestone as it was the first time since the integration of Villeroy & Boch and Ideal Standard, with the itinerary including a visit to the Wittlich brassware factory.
Visitors also enjoyed a trip to the Saarschleife, the iconic river bend and natural landmark, before touring the Mettlach ceramic factory and attending a presentation by Constantin von Boch, a ninth-generation member of the von Boch family.
Later, the group explored the Old Abbey, which houses the company’s headquarters, museum, new showroom and the Dining and Lifestyle outlet.
Anna Romanova, Key Account Manager – Global Projects, said: “The trip was part of our A&D strategy, which aims to develop our relationships with architects and designers.
“It has been a couple of years since we last did it, but we thought it would be a good idea this year as for the first time we can present the Villeroy & Boch and Ideal Standard brands together.”
Jason Cadman, Channel Director – Architecture and Design, added: “We had some great conversations and received valuable feedback on new products we are developing.
“These trips strengthen relationships with key architect and design clients, creating valuable brand experiences and providing direct insight into customer needs, all helping to build project specifications and grow our global project pipeline.”