Q&A: Sanipex Group talks outdoor furniture and living well
The design-led product manufacturer discusses the company’s latest foray into outdoor furniture and the importance of the hospitality sector.
Why did you decide to expand into outdoor furniture?
We have expanded our product offering in recent years to include Spa & Wellness and Tiles & Slabs. The addition of Outdoor Furniture is a natural extension servicing the same clients, completing our offer for both retail and hospitality sectors.
What is the inspiration behind the Outdoor Living collection?
As we cross many sectors, working with boutique hotels and major recognised brands, we have to offer a wide and complete collection that is up-to-date with the latest trends such as urban industrial and biophilia, whilst meeting the quality and price expectations of our clients.
What is the concept behind the ‘Live Well’ tagline?
There is a common belief that ‘quality of life’ is the most essential aspect of all our aspirations. The ‘Live Well’ tag is reflective of the product offering, which should complement the healthier lifestyle that we are all aspiring to: more time spent outdoors relaxing with our family and friends, enhancing our quality of life.
Tell us about a standout product in the range
We can see a major trend towards rope and ribbon upholstery on steel or aluminium frames, which are very pleasing aesthetically. However, sometimes comfort can be sacrificed. This is where our Fortuna Sock range offers real benefit. The collection features low maintenance Ezy-Dry upholstery in a range of finishes, which is also soft and tactile for maximum comfort.
How important is the hospitality sector to your business?
In terms of our project business, the hospitality sector represents approximately 50% of the group’s sales. We have the capability to work with complete single supply offers for the three-, four- and five-star sectors, with particular strength in the boutique sector due to our ability to customise according to the designer and developer requirements.
What sets Sanipex apart from other companies?
Our vast product offering caters to a variety of styles; from creating Bali vibes beachfront with Ritz Teak, to developing funky metropolitan rooftops with LED bars, planters and seating. Sanipex offers diversity in both function and design for specification across a number of projects worldwide.
What is next for Sanipex?
Sanipex continues to expand geographically across the MEA area with new showrooms and project offices opening in 2021 in Nairobi, Dhaka, Al Khobar, Jeddah, Abu Dhabi and Cairo. We continue to expand through South Africa and look forward to re-opening the newly refurbishes Sanipex Gallery on Kings Road in Chelsea, London.
