Hranipex Ltd is a leading European manufacturer and supplier of products and expert consulting for the furniture industry. The group, which is headquartered in the Czech Republic, was founded in 1993, and today is active in more than 60 countries around the world. Hranipex has a physical branch in 13 countries within Europe including UK and is expanding this continually. It’s wide product portfolio includes furniture fittings, edge banding, adhesives, cleaners and other components for furniture production.
PJP spoke to Simon Mitchell, Managing Director of Hranipex Ltd to get an insight into the ethos of the company.
Simon Mitchell joined the company 10 years ago when the UK branch first opened back in 2012 where he managed the East of England. Within his first five years at Hranipex he built up a solid customer base by creating sustainable relationships with small, medium and large manufacturers. After his promotion to Managing Director five years ago he made sure that this ethos has continued ensuring equality, positivity, and teamwork throughout the branch.
Here Simon talks about his role in the business and helps us understand Hranipex and how the company differentiates within the industry.
Q: Talk us through who you are and how you achieved your role as managing director?
A: I started as an Area Sales Manager, using my own experience and gathering more knowledge and skills from experts within the industry which meant I was able to achieve local success for Hranipex. I always knew that the business would be able to grow as our product and service offering in the industry is second to none. Taking into account the local achievements and coupled with other learning obstacles, I felt it right to make small adjustments to the way we worked in the UK. The goals we set were fairly ambitious but despite that we achieved them
Q: What makes Hranipex different within the industry?
A: From an edge perspective being a manufacturer is a huge benefit for us, moreover, being a smaller manufacturer gives us more flexibility in the marketplace. With the new fittings range, and the fact that the products are mostly our own, we can have a more flexible way of working to the industry. We pride ourselves in customer service and being seen as a partner, rather than a supplier.
Q: What is Hranipex mission statement and the importance
A: Hranipex is a leading European manufacturer and supplier of products and expert consulting for the furniture industry. The group, which is headquartered in the Czech Republic, was founded in 1993, and today is active in more than 60 countries around the world. Its wide product portfolio includes furniture fittings, edge banding, adhesives, cleaners and other components for furniture production.
Q: What steps do you take to ensure Hranipex staff are happy and motivated and how does this reflect on the customer experience?
A: The company’s corporate culture is based on the solid values that have accompanied the company throughout its history. Taking care of employees, customers, business partners and suppliers creates long-term relationships and successful teamwork. An integral part of life in the Hranipex group is extensive charitable activities and support for cultural and sports activities.
Q: What is the Hranipex approach to creating sustainability within the industry?
A: Hranipex is aware of its social responsibility and adheres to the highest ethical principles and to the principles of sustainable development. It pays attention to investments in research and development, safety and quality, and promotes new technologies leading to energy savings and emission reductions. It reinforces its commitment to protecting the environment.
With a passion for continuous development and innovation, as well as high added value of products and services, the Hranipex Group is setting new standards, strengthening its market position and becoming the number one choice for its customers.
Q: In the last two years what has made the biggest difference in operations to Hranipex UK and how does it benefit your customers?
A: In July 2021 we moved from our original site to our new facility which is three times bigger with more technologically advanced capabilities to ensure a smooth pick, pack and ship process.
The pandemic in 2020 made us review and quickly adapt to a new style of working, our office team are now working hybrid, in-between office and home, and in 2023 will be capable of carrying out their roles from home 80% of the time. This ensures our team has a good work-life balance and are able to give exceptional time and attention to detail for every customer contact.
Q: Where do you see Hranipex in the next 5 years?
A: At Hranipex we want to be recognised in the UK as being a leading supplier of furniture components and not just “the edging people”.
Our outstanding customer service will continue. We always aim for a 6-star service that is something that is always uppermost in our minds and we will continue to strive to make improvements.
Our HQ are always looking at new and exciting opportunities, some will happen sooner than later, but I cannot discuss these at present.
For more information about Hranipex:
T: 0121 767 9080
