“After so many years in business, we have a great idea of exactly who we are and what works,” says Hettich New Zealand Design and Specification Manager, Elaine Addy.

“We’ve built a solid foundation that enables us to keep meeting the evolving needs of the furniture market, while maintaining the core business and established product line that Hettich is known for.”

Hettich was originally founded as a precision clock manufacturer in Kirchlengern, Germany in 1888. In the century and a half since, the business has grown into one of the world’s leading manufacturers of furniture fittings. Elaine joined the Hettich New Zealand team mid-2022 and is excited to see her new role taking shape this year. “I actually worked with Hettich in a marketing capacity back in about 2010 before transitioning into other roles in the building and construction industry. What brought me back was the great opportunity they presented to help take Hettich New Zealand to the next level; to develop the specification services and collateral to better support our products in projects ranging from single-home renovations to multi-residential builds.”

A big part of her first 6 months, Elaine says, has been getting a complete understanding of exactly what Hettich’s customers need. “Furniture hardware is really detailed and complex – specifying a kitchen has so many different layers to it – so I’ve been having conversations with industry professionals about how we can make it easier for them to specify us.”

In the decade Elaine was away, she says that the business continued to do what it does best, while adapting to the changing needs of the market. “Back in 2010, there were mostly simple drawer systems available; now everything is being tailored to the market and moving with the times. The staple products are the same, but we’re also promoting innovations like multiple drawer systems and in-drawer lighting, and expanding into new segments like outdoor kitchens.”

One of the product developments Elaine is most excited to share is the AvanTech You drawer range. “It really is a designer’s dream, with a sleek finish, interior lighting and so much opportunity to customise. All the adjustments and fittings are internal, so what you get is a very clean look like nothing else on the market. We’re also seeing a lot of interest in our Cadro aluminium frame system which is a hugely versatile framing product that you can use to design almost anything, from glass shelving to display cabinets. Both of these products have a refined and simple aesthetic that marries great design with superior function, which really speaks to Hettich’s roots in German engineering.”

Later this year, Hettich New Zealand is planning to launch a new outdoor kitchen range which, Elaine says, will be a significant addition to their product line. “One of the best things about being part of an established global company is that we get the opportunity to see and learn from trends overseas. One that we’re seeing more and more of is outdoor kitchens, so we’ve really embraced that new segment and we’ve been busy developing runners and stainless steel hinges to accompany the InnoTech Atira [drawer] range that will withstand the elements.”

The company is making the most of its global network in the research and development of new product ranges like this. For example, to produce the Quadro Compact outdoor drawer runner Hettich leverages its expertise in manufacturing for whiteware. With an established knowledge base for runners with flawless function in refrigerators and ovens, it was in a unique position to produce a smart solution for a clear design need.

“I’m excited to see where Hettich New Zealand goes as a company in the next 12 or 18 months. The team is growing and I am enjoying finding my feet, it is such an exciting journey to be a part of.”

To learn more and connect with Elaine, visit hettich.com, designwithhettich.co.nz or contact Elaine directly at elaine.addy@hettich.com.