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Excellence in Form Women in Luxury Furniture Design

A Captivating Conversation with Giada Vismara on the Impact and Aspirations of Women on International Women’s Day

Half of the team at Vismara Design, a company based in Brianza, in Lombardy, northern Italy, specialising in luxury home entertainment furniture, are women. That’s why, in order to celebrate this International Women’s Day, we engage in a compelling conversation with Giada Vismara, the Sales & Marketing Manager, to talk about the status of women in the luxury furniture industry.

Crafting Excellence Through Unique Strengths

In the company she represents, the concentration of women is a deliberate and strategic choice, that stems from the belief that women bring unique strengths to both creative and managerial aspects of the luxury furniture industry. Despite prevailing clichés, women at Vismara thrive in collaborative environments, characterized by effective communication and superior problem-solving skills. Giada emphasizes the agility and practicality innate to women when seeking solutions, a trait crucial in meeting the demanding standards of the luxury industry clientele. In facing challenges, women seem to exhibit resilience, persisting until a comprehensive solution is achieved. Giada underscores the significance of these qualities in meeting the discerning needs of customers who demand exceptional quality and specialized assistance. Attention to detail also plays a special role, however, for Vismara and anyone working in this field, and Giada ardently asserts that women, by nature, surpass their male counterparts in this regard. Their ability to finely tune into intricate details positions them not only as contributors but as leaders in achieving excellence in the luxury furniture industry.

Women’s Rising Influence Across Borders

The remarkable prevalence of women in the luxury furniture industry is, therefore, not a mere coincidence but a compelling trend gaining momentum each passing year. Women are increasingly assuming pivotal roles, shaping the landscape of architecture firms and forming all-female teams within. This transformative shift is particularly prominent on the international stage, where encounters with women are more prevalent, not only in sales offices and showrooms but also in influential top management positions.

Women’s Mastery

While acknowledging the complexity of individual differences, an intriguing trend surfaces when exploring the dynamic between men and women in the luxury furniture realm. It appears that, in this specific domain, women exhibit a heightened sensitivity to interior design aesthetics, an enhanced dedication to customer service, and a flair for creativity. This nuanced observation challenges preconceived notions, illustrating the multifaceted strengths that women bring to the forefront. For Vismara this industry is unequivocally a very feminine world. Here, women not only excel but thrive, shaping an environment where their innate qualities contribute significantly.

“The promptness and concreteness in seeking solutions are typical of women, who do not falter at the first obstacles but strive to solve the problem thoroughly.”

Giada Vismara

Navigating the Gender Gap

In certain instances, the gender gap remains notably entrenched. Giada Vismara sheds light on this reality within her Brianza, the industrial hub where manufacturing leadership has historically been male-dominated. Despite strides, women in this business often find themselves navigating an arduous path, necessitating a threefold effort to attain parity with their male counterparts. And the manufacturing domain’s deeply rooted, established attitudes pose hurdles, requiring a concerted effort to instigate change. This reality not only impacts the current workforce but also risks deterring aspiring young women from pursuing careers in this field. However, only by recognising and addressing the complexities surrounding gender inequalities do we pave the way for a more equitable future.

A Shared Desire: Harmony in Equality

On this International Women’s Day, we resonate with Giada Vismara’s heartfelt wish for women worldwide. Her aspiration, shared by our collective voice, advocates for the fundamental principle of equality, urging that women be recognized as equals to their male counterparts in every professional sphere. As we celebrate the achievements of women and their indispensable contributions, it’s imperative to foster an environment where talent, expertise, and dedication transcend gender biases. The wish is therefore a collective effort to break down barriers, inspire positive change and create a world where the potential of every woman is fully realised and appreciated.

Ottaviano Borgonovo Tells Us about The Art of Creating Iconic Spaces with a Sustainable Vision

At the heart of MisuraEmme lie values of commitment, dedication, and cooperation, led by Ottaviano Borgonovo, the leader and third generation of the company. This legacy is deeply influenced by Ottaviano’s revered mother, Tiziana Mascheroni, who passed away in 1991, and whose testament can be seen at the entrance of the company’s headquarters in Mariano Comense, in the province of Como, Northern Italy.

MisuraEmme places primary importance on the care and conservation of our planet. A pioneer in environmental responsibility, the company has obtained the prestigious Aquaver certificate as the first to invest in water-based painting, exemplified by the revered 0001 mark from ANVER.

Renowned for product customisation, meticulous attention to detail, and the use of high-quality materials, MisuraEmme stands out as a pioneer in the high-end market, driven by its flagship product, the “Palo Alto” night system.

Ottaviano is determined about the future: to continue with steadfastness, supporting the family business with unwavering commitment and passion. The legacy forged by MisuraEmme is a testament to its authoritative position in the industry, built on a foundation of respect, expertise, and enthusiasm.

Thanks to Lucrezia Radice for her extraordinary collaboration! 😊

Inbox

From removal experts to creating unique spaces with care, precision and expertise in Melbourne

People first

For Inbox everything starts with people.It’s not merely about moving furniture; it signifies a meticulous focus on detail and a genuine care for space. From the initial contact, be it a relocation or the coordination of marketing events demanding space reorganization and high-end furniture management, their commitment is unwavering.

From moving company to expert in high-end furniture logistics

Founded in 2014 as a removals company, Inbox is based in Melbourne, the capital of the state of Victoria in south-eastern Australia, and has evolved into a specialist in crafting unique spaces through iconic furniture supply. Their mission transcends furniture management; they aspire to be a solution for their partners, facilitating their progress and expansion with the necessary tools. In essence, their mission is to deliver excellence at every touch point. Engaging the finest talents and software in every facet of their organizational structure, they stand as a benchmark among transport and logistics companies, specializing in high-end furniture and VIP clientele.

Not just transport

Their specialized team provides real-time assistance to on-the-road teams, ensuring streamlined communication with live reports to brand sales representatives. In the realm of deliveries, while it remains the most requested service, Inbox extends beyond mere transportation. Assembly and waste management are integral components of their white-glove delivery service, enriching the overall customer experience. Prior to delivery, the booking process emerges as a crucial, if not the most pivotal, phase. Managing end clients’ expectations, availability, and on-road teams becomes imperative to optimize routes, saving time and ensuring the right personnel and equipment are deployed.

If you need excellence, look for Inbox

Clients turning to Inbox expect nothing short of excellence. Furniture delivery transcends a simple A to B movement; it marks the final interaction between the brand and the client, extending the after-sale process for an elevated customer experience.

To the future day by day

A key strength of Inbox lies in its adaptive prowess, continually evolving while staying attuned to customer needs and the dynamic market. Embracing new technologies, they remain vigilant, assessing and enhancing capabilities daily to address evolving concerns and implement effective solutions. Inbox aspires to sustained growth, aligning with customer needs and industry evolution. Their gaze toward the future is optimistic, grounded in the knowledge that their ongoing commitment positions them for success.

Ambra Vismara’s passion unveils the soul of a family-owned legacy, embracing beauty, progress, and a visionary future.

Respect, wellbeing, and innovation stand as the cornerstone values guiding Vismara Design, a distinguished company nestled in Seveso, within the northern Italian province of Monza Brianza.

Ambra Vismara, Export Manager and a pivotal force in the third generation of this family-owned enterprise, escorts us through the rich tapestry of the company’s history.

For Ambra, the pursuit of beauty has always been an intrinsic part of her identity, making her a natural fit for a career within this realm where she radiates energy and passion.

Amidst the accomplishments already achieved, Vismara Design is set on reaching new milestones. The imminent inauguration of an expansive production plant and showroom, slated for completion by the close of 2024, is a testament to the company’s commitment to continual growth and advancement.

This strategic expansion is poised to enable concurrent work on multiple projects, ultimately optimizing processing times. The envisioned developments not only underscore Vismara Design’s authority and expertise but also signify a pledge to fostering an environment where innovation thrives, setting the stage for an even more remarkable future.

Special thanks to Giada Vismara for her amazing support!😊

Hunter & Co.: from the ordinary to the extraordinary

When professionalism wears White Gloves

Embarking on a Remarkable Tale

Picture this: a world where vision meets opportunity, and an extraordinary company is born.

Once upon a time, in 2009, there was a bond where trust and mutual respect were not empty words, but the foundation of a great narrative waiting to unfold. 

This story begins with Ryan Hunter, who while working at International Art Services (IAS), identified a gap in furniture logistics. Nestled in the heart of Sydney, Australia, this gap begged to be bridged with finesse akin to the world of fine art logistics.

Ryan, therefore, brought this to the attention of Kingsley Munday, the owner of IAS. Now Kingsley, wise and forward-thinking, saw the potential in Ryan’s vision and encouraged him to set up his Hunter & Co. Transport. Kingsley gave Ryan dual powers of entrepreneurship and a continuing role at the IAS.

The rest, as they say, became a harmonious history of mentorship and friendship: Kingsley thus became, over time, a loyal mentor and close friend.

Ryan and Blue (company’s mascot and Ryan’s best friend – in memoriam)

Hunter & Co. Today

Fast forward fourteen years and here we are, looking at the brilliant company Hunter & Co., with its team of 25 people.

Ryan Hunter and Hamilton Ribeiro are currently the Managing Directors (whereas Nicole Cramey and Pierre Etienne Mathot previously held the same position). Last but not least, Operations Manager Kyle Dolan.

This crew has only one mission: to make customers feel like royalty, taking care of them especially in the delicate final phase – the last physical mile.

The legendary White Gloves Delivery and more! 

H&Co. is best known for its highly sought-after White Glove service, symbolised by the literal use of white gloves. This complete package includes installation and meticulous removal of packaging.

Another frequently requested service is the correction of failed delivery attempts initiated by other delivery services.

In order to guarantee optimal results, Hunter & Co. deploys balcony lifts, hoists and collaboration in crane operations, just to name a few examples. Of course, the needs of customers and suppliers have changed over time, e H&Co. elegantly danced its way into adapting services. Among these, commercial and residential storage and consolidation are the true stars of this evolving saga.

A new dawn in Brisbane

Hunter & Co. not only embraced change but also chased the sparkle of growth. 

The story took a double turn in Brisbane, where a new chapter began on 1 September. 

The same majestic services that Sydney had enjoyed find a home here too. 

A bold two-day strategy, soon to be expanded due to the impending high season, ushered in a fresh era.

The supervisors of H&Co. will then be transferred to Brisbane in October-December, due to growing demand.

Our Unbreakable Bond

And then emerges the heart of it all – the unbreakable bond between Hunter & Co. and us at Salbini. It’s not just business; it’s an alignment of values ​​and ethics.

“The inclusion of the Salbini team has undeniably enriched H&Co.’s portfolio. Their insights are instrumental in refining, adapting, and gaining ideas, making the learning process invaluable for us”; these are the words Hunter & Co. dedicated to us.

Team working on a Salbini project in Vaucluse, NSW
Strength and delicacy of Team Hunter & Co.

So, let’s raise a toast to Hunter & Co. – a saga of trust, evolution and spirited collaboration. Here’s to a future where the pages continue to turn, and the legacy continues to grow. 

Cheers to Hunter & Co., where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, one white-gloved step at a time.

MisuraEmme Company

Ability, persistence and enthusiasm. MisuraEmme could be described with these three words. 

The company, located in Italy, in Mariano Comense (CO), was founded in 1902 by Giovanni Mascheroni. Today it has a factory of 35,000 m2.

However, we asked manager Ottaviano Borgonovo to tell us something more about this company.

Born in 1987, since 2014, Ottaviano is passionately dedicated to the commercial and marketing aspects of the family business, demonstrating great competence and professionalism.

About 10 years at the head of the Company: which developments have you noticed over this period?

“As first, I have seen the evolution of many international markets in the furniture industry, which have become strategic to its success. This is why, we wanted the company to become more and more international, in order to adapt to the requirements of foreign markets, different from those of the Italian market.

A further consequence of the decision to invest in foreign markets was the reinforcement of the quality and international design of the products. We’ve also decided to invest more in raw material technology and in the industrial process.

As a result of these choices, sales have reversed from 80% in the Italian market to less than 20% in 2022.”

Customizing the product according to the individual’s needs is one of the strengths of MisuraEmme. What are the differences between Italian and international customers? Do needs change based on geography?

“Definitely. It’s not a secret that there are countries with a taste for minimal, such as northern Europe, while those of the Middle East prefer a sumptuous aesthetic, with a prevalence of bronzed metals and marble. Quite the opposite, the United States is focused on wood. However, each country has its own specific taste.

Anyway, a trend in the luxury market is developing recently, with an international taste that unites all geographical areas and combines elements of different styles.

But another significant difference between customer types concerns the way the market is conceived: design, in fact, plays a role of primary importance in the international arena, compared to the simple production of the product. The sale of a project is much more important than the sale of the product itself.”

In 2003, MisuraEmme was awarded the Acquaver label for the use of environmentally friendly painting systems. How attentive is today’s customer to the green theme?

“The green theme is becoming more and more relevant for all markets. In fact, the appreciation for using eco-sustainable materials and industrial solutions with a lower environmental impact is increasing.

Moreover, consumer awareness has increased not only towards the product, but also towards the sustainable attitude of the company that produces it.

Being a green company not only means using materials and solutions with a lower environmental impact, but also adopting a respectful approach to the environment in the daily management of the company itself

In other words we want sustainability to be a theme in all areas of the company’s work.”

Salone del Mobile.Milano 2023: what’s new at MisuraEmme?

“This year we brought two new boiserie systems to the Salone del Mobile: Puzzle and Palo Alto Wall. We designed these two systems to be integrated with all the day and night equipment and the finishes are completely customizable. So we have a range of furniture solutions that are potentially infinite and widely customizable, which is the quintessence of the sartorial attitude of MisuraEmme.”

Puzzle

Designed by CR&S MisuraEmme

Puzzle is an equipped and modular boiserie system for wall coverings, which includes a series of completely integrated elements: wooden containers, glass cases and shelves.

The idea starts from the concept of evolution of the composition, thanks to wall coverings that can be equipped with dedicated elements, which can be used both in the living area and in the sleeping area.

It consists of a system of uprights and transoms in aluminum to be fixed to the wall and a series of frame panels.

Puzzle is available in different finishes: wood, concrete, straw or thermoformed melamine.

Palo Alto Wall

Designed by Gianni Borgonovo

Palo Alto Wall is the wooden boiserie system which becomes the distinctive element of an exclusive and functional sleeping area, with the elegance of the unmistakable MisuraEmme style.

It is a floor-to-ceiling wall covering, which can be fully integrated with the Palo Alto Free and Palo Alto I-Box walk-in closet systems, which opens up an infinite range of furnishing possibilities, providing the designer with various opportunities.

Special tip: the prestige of wood and glass can be further enhanced by installing exclusive LED lights, thanks to the electrified rack structure.

In your opinion, which is the secret of MisuraEmme’s success?

“Certainly, the ability to understand customer needs and intercept market trends. The collaboration with architects of international caliber has also contributed to the success. Last but not least, the strategic vision and the belief of my family, which over the generations has always enthusiastically supported all the innovations in research and innovation in design and product.”

How do you imagine the future of the Company? What is your vision of MisuraEmme?

“The evolution will be crucial to face an increasingly competitive market.

Because of the presence of foreign industrial companies in the furniture sector, we should be able to intercept the needs of a market that is moving towards a demand for life style, as well as product, in order to compete internationally. To consolidate our presence in the most emerging markets, we’ll then face a series of international investments.

Finally, it will be essential to implement the latest technological innovations that in these years are revolutionizing the world of communication and beyond.”

Credits: Photographs courtesy of MisuraEmme.

Love Happens Magazine

Family, projects, business, design, achievements and happiness are the topics of the interview with our Managing Director Filippo Salbini carried out by Love Happens, the magazine of the KOKET brand.

Filippo Salbini and KOKET

We at Salbini collaborate closely with KOKET and with the other brands of the Covet Group, which is one of our premium partners.

Love Happens is the luxury lifestyle magazine born from the minds behind luxury home decor brand KOKET, offered online and through a bi-annual print edition.

LH celebrates all things beautiful and iconic, aiming to provide not only information, but also an emotional response to readers.

The interview with our Managing Director Filippo Salbini makes us very proud!

Special thanks to Marta Vieira.

Customs duties and taxes

Duties and taxes are imposed to protect national revenue and safeguard local industry. Almost all shipments crossing international borders are subject to duty and tax assessment, with customs officials basing this on information provided on the commercial invoice and other relevant documents.

When do you need to pay customs duties and taxes?

Payment to the authorities must be met before the shipments are released from customs

Australia

Things you buy over the Internet have the same duties applied as any other import.

For goods with a value of AUD 1000 or less, there are generally no duties, taxes or charges to pay at the border,

For goods with a value over AUD 1000, you will need to fill out an import declaration and pay duties, taxes and charges at the border.

GST is payable on most goods imported into Australia.The GST payable is 10% of the value of the taxable importation. Generally, GST is payable before the goods are released by Home Affairs. If you are an importer and are registered for GST, you may be able to defer the payment of GST by participating in the deferred GST scheme.

United States

Import duty and taxes are owed when importing goods into the United States, whether by a private individual or a commercial entity.

The valuation method is FOB, which means that the import duty and taxes payable are calculated exclusively on the value of the imported goods. Duty rates vary from 0 to 37.5 percent, with a typical duty rate about 5.63 percent.

Goods must be declared for entry into the U.S. within 15 days of arrival or prior to leaving a bonded warehouse or foreign trade zone. The importer of record declares the transaction value of the goods and country of origin, along with other information. The declarations must include an invoice and packing list (or equivalent) listing all goods.

CBP then assesses duty, which must be paid by the importer of record before goods can be released. Many importers participate in a voluntary self-assessment program with CBP.

Korea 

Korea has a flat 10 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on all imports and domestically manufactured goods. A special excise tax of 10-20 percent is also levied on the importation of certain luxury items and durable consumer goods.

Tariffs and taxes must be paid in Korean Won within 15 days after goods have cleared Customs

Asia

Generally, all goods entering Singapore are subject to a 7% GST on imported goods. This import fee is applicable for items which have a total value of SG$400 and above.

The taxable value is calculated based on its Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) value and all other duties and tax charges.

In 2021, the Singapore government announced that low-value goods bought online will also be subjected to GST from 1 January 2023.

Importing through Salbini

On our site and in our quotes, prices don’t include GST and customs duties, being a tax that you don’t need to pay us.

In fact, we are exporters, not importers.

These import duties and taxes are paid by the buyer / importer upon arrival of the goods in their country.

The Salbini team offers the buyer all the assistance and information necessary to complete the procedures.

Our Australia manager Vittoria Chiarilli is an Interior Designer. She has a small studio called Marly Hemisphere which operates out of Melbourne Australia.

She has been in Milano for the Salone del Mobile and then we interviewed her in Pagani.

Childhood

She has always been artistic as a child.

“As a very young girl l would accompany my father to his work – he was a builder and l would find small objects on his building sites and make sculptures to take home and show my mum. I learned to sew at 14 and draft all my own patterns for clothes l made. I was happiest when l was creating and making things.”

Favourite design style

Some of her favourite design styles are: Neo Classic, Post Modern, Scandinavian, Midcentury Modern and Art Deco.

Functionality or appeal?

When asked if she prefers functionality or appeal she says she prefers to try to combine both.

“It means l can have something look beautiful but also importantly provide the client with an easy to use space that meets most of their needs”

What are a couple of questions you’d ask to discover your client’s requirements?

Some of the questions she usually asks a client are:

  • what are you trying to achieve in the space?
  • are we using some existing items/furniture you have
  • how do you live in the space
  • Are you looking for locally made furniture or are you wanting to consider furniture manufactured overseas
  • And then most importantly what is your budget”

These are important questions to ask a client to begin a good collaboration.

Keeping up with industry changes and with the latest Interior Design styles

Keeping up with industry changes is at times difficult in a fast changing world.

“I try where l can to go to trade shows such as Salone del Mobile which often provide a great source of inspiration
 I keep myself up to date with the latest design styles by following interior designers and architects on instagram and the internet that interest me.” 

It’s also important working in collaboration with other designers.

Imagine your client asks you to design a room in a way that is visually pleasing but not practical. How would you react?

“If they are just wanting a room/space to look beautiful and it be never used then we don’t need to be practical, but if the space is an area that is used frequently it is my job to highlight to the client the disadvantages of being in a space that is not practical.”

It’s important to create spaces that are thoughtful, reflect the client’s personality and ultimately give the client great satisfaction to move within these spaces.

When a client rejects all your design concepts

The design process needs to be a collaboration between client and designer and in order to achieve this successfully there must be a level of trust from the client.

“When a client rejects all my design concepts it usually means they have perhaps not chosen the right designer for their project. Initial meetings with clients are crucial, they establish if we will be able to work together and if there is a potential to clash.”

Vittoria Chiarilli at the Auditorium Theater in Pagani

Why Salbini for the supply of European design products?

Using a company like Salbini means that clients are dealing directly with an agent out of Italy. One of the benefits is that a customer can buy different type of products all through one agent

Moreover, “Things are done more quickly if there is an issue or drama.” Another reason would be cost saving. It’s all advantageous.

With Salbini Experience we will open the doors of the best Italian companies to you.

Do you need to carry out projects with the best design products? Come to Italy!

Scott Wilson is our commercial manager and agent in Australia.

He came in Italy in June 2022 for the Salone del Mobile and then he visited Pagani, where we had the opportunity to interview him.

“I love Italy and working with Italians
 I like the beautiful people in the South”.

His role

He’s the commercial manager and agent in Australia.

“I have to face between our team in Pagani and our clients in Australia: mainly with commercial clients but also with private ones as well”.

“
dealing with the client, being the middle piece between the Australian clients and our team in Pagani
 I love being part of the process”.

Interesting aspects of the job

Scott loves everything about his job but several things stand out most:

“
dealing with the client, being the middle piece between the Australian clients and our team in Pagani
 I love being part of the process
 I get to see beautiful pieces of furniture, beautiful joinery”.

What clients usually ask

Clients ask Scott lots of things: they ask about the prices but they are also curious about the process and how Salbini operates. They also want to now about Salbini.

“I tell them the history of Pagani and the history of the company”.

Relationship Pagani-Sydney

It’s amazing this relationship Pagani-Sydney.

“We get to expose Australians to this part of Italy
 I feel very proud that I get to tell the story of Pagani and our business, which is a family”.

The future of the job

Scott is very positive about the future of Salbini.

“In 2 years we will have more staff, more commercial clients, we will grow even larger
 I see exciting things for Salbini in Australia and in every other country as well”.