Americans in Milan and the Global Launch Pad

Salone del Mobile and EuroCucina FTK kicked off in Milan last month, bringing the global design industry together to experience the biennial expo. According to NKBA Executive Vice President, Industry Relations & Chief Strategy Officer Suzie Williford, “The world has become so much smaller, with the rapid evolution of technology and instantaneous global communication. This opportunity to promote awareness of the NKBA on an international scale is a great way to build connections with companies around the world, show them how to leverage the buying power of the vibrant North American market, as well as expose our members to new ideas that they can explore as they build their own businesses.”

NKBA Manhattan Chapter President Toni Sabatino and Programs Chair Dawn DeLuca were part of the global mix for cocktails, light bites and industry remarks that included Williford, NKBA CEO Bill Darcy, Chairman of the Board Lorenzo Marquez, and Brian Pagel, senior vice president of Emerald Expositions.

NKBA and KBIS presented “Global Launch Pad at EuroCucina” in the Team 7 booth at the show on April 18.

Sabatino and DeLuca also attended Salone del Mobile, covering the greater design show as well as EuroCucina. Their participation was part of the DesignHounds, a digital community network of design experts, and part of Modenus Media.

Prior to EuroCucina, Sabatino and DeLuca were the guests of Rohl at Lago D'Orta for brand bonding and factory tours. Read more about Sabatino's take on the experience here.

The NKBA “Americans in Milan” party, co-hosted by Cosentino and Liebherr and held at The Diner by David Rockwell on April 19, was another opportunity to mix and mingle with kitchen and bath enthusiasts from across the globe.

NKBA Manhattan Treasurer Felicitas Oefeleinand Committee Member Beata Galdi toured the EuroCucina show and visited Chapter sponsors. They were particularly impressed with the focus on fresh produce preservation found in some of the appliance booths. Pictures can be found on the NKBA Manhattan Facebook page.