Natuzzi opens its largest store in Dubai
By Joan Gunin -- Furniture Today, October 19, 2005
At the Market — Italian upholstery manufacturer Na-tuzzi's newly opened store in Dubai is the company's largest stand-alone store in the world.
Co-owned with Middle Eastern retail partner Western Furniture, the approximately 22,000-square-foot store features all three Natuzzi style concepts — casual, urban and vintage.
In addition to the seating line, the store sells a collection of fine leather products and glass, ceramic and metal accessories.
Dubai joins other Natuzzi retail markets worldwide, including New York, London, Paris, Stockholm, Shanghai, Sydney, Australia and Barcelona, Spain. In the Middle East, Natuzzi already had stores in Beirut, Lebanon, and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
The company is set to open a unit in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, later this year.
"The Gulf, and especially the UAE, is experiencing major growth in its economy," said Daniele Tranchini, chief sales and marketing officer for Natuzzi.
"The construction boom has many positive spin-off effects, not the least of which is an increasing demand for furniture."
With exports representing about 90% of its revenue, Natuzzi seeks to play a leading role in this fast-growing region. In 2004, the upholstery market in the UAE was estimated at $70 million, Tranchini said.
According to Pasquale Na-tuzzi, founder and chairman of Natuzzi Group, the company holds a special bond with the Middle East. The UAE and Saudi Arabia were Natuzzi's first export markets when the company began selling outside of Italy in the 1970s.
Added Naji Fatte, Natuzzi's Middle East representative, "Natuzzi will appeal to a wide consumer group with its range of vintage and contemporary products, but more importantly, we will be offering high-end quality Italian products at optimum price value."
Western Furniture also operates the Abu Dhabi store and has a Natuzzi gallery in a store in Dubai.
"Over the years, Natuzzi products have attracted considerable attention in our gallery, not just from end users, but from architects and interior designers as well," said Mikdad Bhabrawala, general manager of Western Furniture.
"The brand has already created a niche for itself, and the opening of this store will help to meet what we expect to be a considerable demand."
Worldwide, Natuzzi products are sold in 135 markets through 280 stores and 570 galleries.
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Nov 20, 2009 -
Natuzzi store gains traction
Feb 11, 2007 -
Natuzzi launching high-end stores
Oct 12, 2006 -
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