29th July 2024 | IN EXPERT INSIGHT | BY SBID ShareTweetPinterestLinkedIn John Pickering, Managing Director at Miele GB has given his insights into the industry. Celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, Miele is a German manufacturer renowned for its premium home appliances. Known for its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, Miele continually sets the benchmark in durability and performance. Its motto, “Immer Besser” (Forever Better), underpins its dedication to continuous improvement and excellence in all its products and services. Miele What are the origins of the brand? Miele was established in 1899 by Carl Miele and Reinhard Zinkann in Herzebrock, Germany. The founders shared a vision to produce high-quality, long-lasting appliances that simplified household chores. Starting with cream separators and butter churners, Miele quickly expanded its product range to include washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators. Over the years, Miele has grown into a global brand, celebrated for its innovative engineering and commitment to the highest standards of quality and sustainability. Miele How do your products and services enhance interior design projects? Miele appliances are designed to seamlessly integrate into any interior design project, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our products, available in a range of colours and finishes, complement both modern and timeless design trends while ensuring superior performance. The sleek, minimalist design of Miele appliances enhances the overall look of kitchens and living spaces, allowing designers to create cohesive and stylish spaces without compromising on quality or technology. Miele What value does your specialist sector add to the industry? As a leader in premium home appliances, Miele adds value to the interior design industry by combining cutting-edge technology with timeless design. Our commitment to quality and innovation ensures that designers have access to appliances that not only look elegant but also perform reliably over the long term, giving clients peace of mind. Miele’s sustainability credentials are also a key value proposition; most of our products are tested to perform for 20 years of use, ensuring durability and reducing environmental impact. Miele How do you work with interior designers? We collaborate closely with interior designers to ensure our appliances fit seamlessly into their design projects. Through our seven Experience Centres, (Mayfair & Oxford Circus in London, Bluewater, Brentcross, Solihull, Abingdon Edinburgh) designers and their customers can explore our full range of products, receive expert advice, and see first-hand how Miele appliances can be integrated into various design schemes. Additionally, we offer custom solutions and finishes to meet specific project requirements, ensuring that every detail aligns with the designer’s aesthetic and functional goals. Miele What has been your most significant company highlight or success from the past year? Opening our new Experience Centre in Mayfair, directly opposite The Ritz Hotel. It is a fantastic destination for designers to take their customers to see our products first-hand and receive expert advice on individual products. There have also been new product launches and product updates throughout the year in dishwashing and refrigeration. Miele What are the latest trends you’ve noticed in your client’s requests? Recently, there has been a growing trend for mixing natural materials and dark, matt finishes in interior design. Our products align with these contemporary design trends that emphasise understated, timeless elegance. We have just launched a range of matt black finishes which are proving popular. Clients are also increasingly interested in smart home technologies and energy-efficient solutions, seeking appliances that not only enhance the aesthetics of their homes but also contribute to a more efficient and sustainable lifestyle. Miele How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead? The interior design industry is likely to see a continued emphasis on sustainability, with a growing focus on eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions. Smart home technology will become increasingly integrated into design projects, offering greater convenience and control for homeowners. The demand for personalised and customised design solutions will continue, as clients seek spaces that reflect their individual tastes and lifestyles. Miele Is there anything new you are excited to be working on? At Miele, we are always looking to be ‘Immer Besser’ – forever better in all aspects of our business. There are always new products or enhancements coming out across all our product categories from floorcare and cooking through to dishwashing and laundry. Our upcoming products are likely to feature even more advanced connectivity options and energy-saving technologies, reinforcing our commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. Also, look out for specialist training events dedicated to the specific needs of interior designers. What does being an SBID Accredited Industry Partner mean to you? Being an SBID Accredited Industry Partner is a prestigious recognition of our commitment to excellence in design and quality. It provides us with valuable opportunities to connect with leading interior designers and industry professionals, fostering collaborations that drive innovation and elevate standards within the industry. This partnership underscores our dedication to supporting the design community and contributing to the creation of exceptional and sustainable living spaces. John Pickering, Managing Director at Miele GB About Miele All Miele appliances are designed to enjoy a long lifespan, have a strong focus on sustainability through efficiency and innovative features, and further enrich your kitchen with timeless looks. Visit Profile If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.