Manuel Koessler
GRASS has big plans for Canada, says Manuel Koessler, the company’s new general manager. GRASS market share in Canada is smaller than the average from the rest of the world where the company is ranked second in the sector, and Koessler says that means there is a lot of room to grow.
GRASS manufactures hinges, drawer systems, lift and flap systems and other related fittings for the kitchen cabinet and furniture industry.
“GRASS is determined to grow its market share here and we have the products and the structure to do it,” Koessler says. “We are looking to the future and we want to continue our growth in the mid- and high-end market. Our products use the latest technology, cutting-edge designs and are manufactured to the highest quality standards.”
Koessler previously worked with the GRASS group in Austria for five years – three as a product manager for drawer systems, and two developing sales and marketing strategies – and now brings that background and experience to his new position in Canada.
Since the GRASS merger four years ago with Melpa-Alfit, who has been a strong manufacturer for 20 years in Canada, the company continues to grow and expand with a sales force across Canada.
GRASS, which is part of the international WÜRTH Group, has benefited from an investment of more than 100 million euros over the past few years to develop new products and production technology. Koessler says Dynapro alone (the soft-close undermount slide system with 3D adjustment), was the result of a 25 million euro investment.
“We have a lot to offer as a company,” Koessler says. “Leading innovations, top quality products and the latest manufacturing methods and we are quite proud of the fact that everything is manufactured in Austria and Germany.
“Our products are designed and manufactured for high stability, smooth running operation, precise adjustment and high load capacity for drawer systems. Combining that with our leading edge designs, we believe we can differentiate ourselves in this market.
He also feels the company’s deep product range will help it claim a bigger share of the market.
“Yes, GRASS is top of the line, but GRASS doesn’t have to be expensive,” he says. “If you like one of our high-end products, there is also a more affordable version that’s just as well built and long-lasting.”
Koessler says GRASS made a significant investment at the recent WMS show in Toronto to make a ‘big splash.’ It was a strong statement about their intentions to claim a bigger share of the Canadian market. And with his strong team, which includes sales managers Ilona Stigrad in the West, David Heron in Ontario and Luciano Clemente in Quebec – Koessler is confident GRASS is well prepared to expand its Canadian business.
“We see a lot of opportunity in Canada and we need to tell existing and new customers about how they can add value to their cabinetry with GRASS innovative movement systems,” Koessler said. “It is an opportunity for our customers to differentiate their products through the added features and benefits we offer.
And after the success of the Dynapro undermount slide, GRASS is ready to launch the next big thing - Tiomos – their new hinge with adjustable integrated soft-close technology.
People have been asking about the Tiomos hinge Koessler says, but because of high demand in Europe its international rollout has been delayed.
“We are looking forward to introducing Tiomos to Canada in 2012, I believe Tiomos will be another big success in Canada.”
