malvernmugadzikwa
Business Reporter
OPPEIN ZIMBABWE says orders for its high-end market cabinetry have beaten expectations in just a year after it opened its showroom in Harare, and the management is upbeat that sales volumes will continue to gain momentum.
Operating under a franchise of the Oppein Home Group — a leading global manufacturer of kitchen cabinets, wardrobes and other home furnishings — the local entity said its top-of-the-range products have been well-received across the country.
The showroom is located at Sam Levy’s Village in Borrowdale, Harare.
“We had a lot of clients who showed interest in our offerings when we opened a year ago,” showroom manager Ms Carol Chirairo told The Sunday Mail Business in an interview.
“We had so many people coming in, including (property) developers, people who are building (houses), and those who wanted partnerships. I would say the response was beyond our expectations. The interest has been huge and we would like to thank our clients who have supported us since we opened. The outlook is also positive as we continue receiving more inquiries and orders.
“People have been coming as far as Victoria Falls, Zvishavane and Gweru to place orders.”
Over the past few years, many people have been investing in their dream houses — either building new structures or renovating old ones, while prioritising customised interior designs that create a unique and personalised look for their homes.
“People are turning houses into homes . . . to suit the latest standards,” said Ms Chirairo.
She said bringing the Oppein brand to Zimbabwe was a welcome development for customers who were finding it difficult and costly to import from China.
“A lot of people knew about Oppein, but didn’t know that it was now in Zimbabwe,” said Chirairo. “So, obviously, people were so excited that, instead of them going to China, we Oppein in Zimbabwe. Even some people in the diaspora making orders in Europe or China are now being redirected to us,” she added.
The company’s team of experienced designers and technicians help customers with every aspect of their products, from designs to installation.
“We have a team of well-trained local designers who make designs which we then send to China for approval to meet the international design standards. Everything that we do has to meet the prescribed standards, otherwise we run the risk of losing the franchise.”
The company uses the latest manufacturing technology and materials to produce products that are both durable and stylish.
Oppein Zimbabwe’s products are also backed by a comprehensive warranty.
“The material that we use is from Europe and manufactured with equipment from Europe, so quality is guaranteed,” said Ms Chirairo.
Oppein Zimbabwe offers payment options to make it easier for customers.
“We normally ask customers to pay 80 percent but we are quite flexible to negotiate for a lower deposit,” she said.
Oppein Group, founded by Chinese billionaire Yao Liangsong, has a presence in 188 countries and over 7 500 franchise showrooms. It designs and manufactures high-quality kitchens, wardrobes, bespoke home furniture, bathroom products, interior doors, aluminium windows and doors, and home furnishings. It offers one-stop home decor products and solutions.
Last year, output and sales of kitchen cabinets reached 850 000 sets and was ranked number one in the world, according to its website.
In 2022, turnover reached US$3,24 billion.
Output and sales of cabinets reached six million sets, ranking number one in the cabinetry industry.
Its products have been exported to 118 countries and regions, and the total market value exceeded US$15,3 billion in March 2021, the group says.
What sets Oppein Group apart from overseas markets is its Italian design, European quality, one-stop whole-house products and solutions, and reliable local services.
“Oppein takes great pride in its extensive franchise distribution system. We have a productive showroom operation model and thoughtful support policies to help the franchisees win.
“Currently, we have a remarkable number of over 7 500 franchise showrooms worldwide to serve local retail businesses. The global project business is another importance we attach to.
“We cooperate closely with builders, developers, contractors and architects to develop different types of residential and commercial business; up to now, we have completed over 10 000 real estate projects around the globe, including some significant local landmark projects,” it says.
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