Tableware International January February 2026

TableWare

Symbiosis of nostalgia & modernity.

The lids have different functions:

Smooth cylindrical: We can put a starter, and when it arrives at the table, separate it and eat the starter with the cooked dish that the plate contains.

Another important feature is that the lids are the same for all three types of recipients, provided they have the same diameter. The way in which the recipient is joined to the handle on the plates has been designed to move the grip point away from the heat source. This shape has also been designed to create a mosaic-like pattern, which enhances the appearance of any buffet table.

New Collection

Inspired by the timeless cr handmade production, the Amorf Collection is born not from the repetition of a single form but from the harmony of pieces that choose to exist independently. ess craftsmanship of

S to ri e s o n

e ta ble

A dialogue between form and surface

pallero STRUCTURE WITH CHARACTER

Tableware Team

EDITOR

MAIREAD WILMOT mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk

PUBLISHER

PAUL YEOMANS pyeomans@lemapublishing.co.uk

MANAGING DIRECTOR

MARK NAISH mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

CHAIRMAN

MALCOLM NAISH malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

PAUL NAISH paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

TableWare

INTERNATIONAL

The first Tableware International of the year is always a pleasure. After a challenging 2025, there seems to be a quiet but cautious optimism permeating the industry, it feels like change may be afoot. A never say die galvanisation is stirring and dare I say it, it has come at the most perfect time. This issue, historically, is our ode to Ambiente. And 2026 is no different. We dedicate dozens of pages to the industry’s leading trade event featuring interviews with brands such as Villeroy & Boch, Rosenthal, RAK, Mesa Ceramics, Costa Nova, Bonna and many more. It is important that we, as the leading publication for the tabletop industry (there are always pretenders to the throne, of course!) represent what is truly happening across the sector. With that in mind we make it our mission to actually speak with manufacturers and suppliers to hear their thoughts on the industry.

management and cost control.”

Ariane’s MD Sunil Malesha tells us the industry is becoming more discerning. “Buyers are moving away from shortterm trends and focusing on products that offer durability, consistency, and value over time. Inflation and changing market dynamics, particularly in Europe, require manufacturers to be disciplined, transparent, and operationally strong. Those who invest in performance and reliability will continue to stand out.”

Similarly, Porland’s export sales director Elif Keskin Gürbüz warns “brands must remain agile, efficient and customerfocused to stay competitive in this evolving landscape”.

One of the key questions we posed to contributors this year was to ask their opinion on the overall state of today’s tableware industry and their replies were, for the most part, encouraging. “The tableware sector is currently experiencing a period of contrasts. On the one hand, there is positive momentum in the hospitality segment, driven by the growth of tourism across several geographies, including Portugal, Europe, and other strategic markets,” Costa Verde’s marketing director Paulo Pinto Santos told us. “On the other hand, the macroeconomic environment and international instability calls for caution and adaptability, particularly in terms of supply chain

As expected, our Ambiente preview on page 66 takes up a large chunk of the magazine but there is a lot more content besides. This month’s cover is given over to Eisch. Turn to page 54 to read about the family-owned company’s passionate dedication to glassmaking.

On page 62, we hear from RAK and Cookplay – two fantastic brands – who tell us about how they plan to operate now that Cookplay is part of the RAK Porcelain family.

On the topic of trends, columnist and trend expert Donna Ferrari shares her expertise on page 58 – think Hermès, Dibbern, Barnardaud and more.

And with that, the Tableware International team will see you at Ambiente!

Regulars

36

48 HoReCa news

52 Retail column

144 Viewpoints

Interviews

54 Cover Story: Eisch unveiled

62 Rak x Cookplay: the next steps

82 Costa Nova

92 Villeroy & Boch

102 Bonna

106 Mesa Ceramics

116 BHS tabletop

128 Porcel

150 Cerve

152 The Bornego Group

160 Crystalex

Trends

58 Donna Ferrari talks trends

Category

136 The bowl takeover

In Focus

66 Ambiente 2026

124 Rosenthal

142 EcoMade

146 The Japanese tableware market

154 Stölzle Lausitz’s Berlin collection

Shows

162 Preview: The Inspired Home Show

INSPIRED BY NATURE

Discover new design with flowing silhouette and lightweight aesthetics in pure white.

Visit us at Ambiente trade fair | Hall 11 | Booth B10/B11 | Febr uar y 6th – 10th, 2026.

thinKitchen strengthens presence in Indian retail scene

thinKitchen, the consumer-facing brand of the Seeba Group, continues to strengthen its presence in India’s premium kitchen and home segment with an expanded direct or shop-in-shop strategy across key cities, online and offline.

Recent rollouts have focused on experiencefirst merchandising – cross-category displays that showcase complete table and kitchen stories rather than isolated SKUs and brands, along with staff training to drive better sell-through. Together with selective placement in modern trade and speciality formats, thinKitchen says it is working closely with retail partners to upgrade the Indian consumer from purely functional purchases to considered, long-term investments in their kitchens and dining rooms.

Beatriz Ball wins ARTS Award in Dallas

Eight has proven a lucky charge for Beatriz Ball as the designer has been awarded a prestigious ARTS Award for Best In Tabletop – for the eight time! – at an industry event In Dallas.

“We are honoured and proud that our lasting, timeless and beautiful designs continue to be recognised and enjoyed by many,” says Beatriz Ball, adding “Who has won the award eight times for best company in tabletop? Bea, and only Bea”.

The ARTS Awards recognises retailers, sales representatives, interior and product designers, as well as manufacturers at Dallas Market

By Bone opens new facility

By Bone is celebrating the opening of its new production facility in the Emet district of Kütahya. With 133,000 sqm of open space and 39,500 sqm of closed production area, the facility operates with a high-capacity, fully integrated industrial infrastructure.

“This large-scale structure has been specifically designed to reliably meet the high-volume and uninterrupted supply demands of the HoReCa sector,” says By Bone’s vice president Kursat Oz. “Equipped with advanced technology production lines, environmentally responsible systems, and craftsmanship-driven details, By Bone’s new factory expands not only production capacity but also its commitment to sustainability, speed and excellence.”

With the new factory, By Bone also increased its warehouse capacity keeping more than five million pieces in stock. The new warehouse will let By Bone to keep its promise of two weeks delivery.

Arc France placed into administration

Arc France, a subsidiary of Arc Holdings, has been placed into administration – with up to 500 jobs potentially at risk at the company’s manufacturing facility in Arques, France.

Lille Métropole Commercial Court recently approved a request by the French glass manufacturer to be put into judicial administration, meaning the company can continue to carry out operations while undergoing a restructuring process.

Speaking with Tableware International, Arc UK’s MD Adam Devey, made it clear no other subsidiaries (including Arc UK, Arc USA, Arc China and Arc Middle East ) will be impacted by Arc France being placed into administration.

“Arc France itself is also owned by Arc Holdings and it is specifically Arc France that has been placed into admin,” Adam confirmed.

“There is no impact on UK jobs or business and there is no impact for customers, it is business as usual for production. All of our NPD launches will still go ahead and we will still be at Ambiente,” he added.

It will be business as usual for Arc at Ambiente – visit them in Hall 12.1, C23.

Did you know?

Steelite International is launching more than 300 new SKUs at Ambiente! Visit their stand in Hall 11.0, stand C79-C81.

Ionia brand reimagined for hospitality and retail

For more than half a century, the Ionia brand has been synonymous with porcelain in Greece. Founded in 1972, the brand became the country’s reference point for quality, design and reliability.

Today, as part of Yalco, Ionia is returning to international markets — not as a mass exporter, but as a porcelain house serving hotels, restaurants and designconscious homes with distinctive, longlasting tableware.

At the heart of this renewed international direction is Ionia’s custom decoration service, which allows hospitality professionals to transform porcelain into a branded experience. Using advanced in-glaze technology, logos, patterns and bespoke designs are permanently fused into the

surface of the porcelain during firing, ensuring exceptional resistance to washing, scratching and fading — even under the demanding conditions of professional dishwashing. At the same time, Ionia continues to develop design-led collections for retail and home use.

All Ionia collections are designed in Greece and production takes place in carefully selected specialist factories, while decoration and finishing — including in-glaze and precious-metal applications such as gold and platinum — are carried out at Ionia’s own facilities in Greece, ensuring complete control over quality, consistency and aesthetic detail. To learn more about the brand and its trajectory visit www.ionia.gr

Host Arabia wraps up inaugural show

The inaugural edition of Host Arabia took place recently, representing a major milestone for Fiera Milano with the launch of Host Milano’s first international project.

Question corner

Porland’s export sales director Elif Keskin Gürbüz tells Tableware

International why Ambiente 2026 is such an important meeting point for the industry. Turn to page 66 to read our extensive Ambiente preview…

Why is Ambiente such a key date in the tradeshow diary?

Ambiente is without doubt one of the most important meeting points for the global tableware and hospitality industry. It brings together decisionmakers, designers and buyers from all key markets at the very beginning of the year, setting the tone for trends, demand and partnerships ahead. For us, Ambiente is not only a platform to present new collections, but also a strategic opportunity to strengthen existing relationships, explore new markets and gather valuable insights into how consumer expectations are evolving worldwide.

Co-organised by Fiera Milano with Semark Group and held alongside HORECA Riyadh and Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh, Host Arabia’s debut brought together the world’s leading hospitality brands, decisionmakers, and global professionals under one roof. Over three days, the exhibition welcomed thousands of trade visitors, connecting them with the Kingdom’s fast-growing hospitality and foodservice markets, while offering a world-class environment for business exchange, product discovery, and strategic collaboration. Designed to foster innovation, technology, and sustainability in line with Saudi Vision 2030, Host Arabia, together with HORECA Riyadh, created a unified hospitality week featuring over 500 exhibitors and 51,000 professional visitors, setting a new benchmark for large-scale trade exhibitions in the Middle East.

What is your opinion on the overall state of the tableware industry today – what are the positives and what do we need to take heed of?

The tableware industry is currently navigating a period of transformation. On the positive side, there is a clear shift towards higher-quality, design-driven and more functional products, especially in the HoReCa segment. Sustainability, durability and versatility are increasingly influencing purchasing decisions, which creates opportunities for brands that invest in innovation and responsible production.

However, we also need to be mindful of ongoing challenges such as cost pressures, global economic uncertainty and changing consumption habits. Brands must remain agile, efficient and customer-focused to stay competitive in this evolving landscape.

Do you anticipate a positive year for the industry in 2026?

Yes, we are cautiously optimistic about 2026. While volatility will likely remain in some markets, we expect gradual stabilisation and renewed growth, particularly driven by hospitality, travel and experiential dining. Companies that focus on flexibility, differentiated design and strong international partnerships will be well positioned to benefit from this recovery. We believe the industry will continue to move towards more value-added products rather than purely volume-driven growth.

Steelite scoops two German Design Awards

Steelite International recently announced it has been honoured twice at the prestigious German Design Awards 2026 in the category of Excellent Product Design – Tabletop. The awards recognize the exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and aesthetic excellence that define Steelite’s Distinction collections.

“Winning two German Design Awards in the same year is a true testament to our team’s dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and design integrity,” said Andrew Klimecki, VP of Design at Steelite International. “We are honoured to see our Distinction collections celebrated by such a respected international jury.”

The winning designs are Steelite Distinction Morella and Steelite Distinction Alina.

UK’s top Michelin-star chefs showcase Skyra live cooking stations at Catering Innovation Show in London

Skyra Professional, a global innovator in serving systems for fresher food, officially marked its UK launch in partnership with Lockhart Catering Equipment at the inaugural Catering Innovation Show, held at the Business Design Centre, London.

As part of the Live Chef HQ experience, Lockhart partnered with Skyra to champion the SkyStation™, Skyra’s modular and folding live cooking range, positioning it at the heart of the event’s live culinary theatre. Lockhart brought together 73 forward-thinking exhibitors and attracted an audience of over 1,100 hospitality and foodservice professionals at their Catering Innovation Show.

The live cooking programme featured an exceptional lineup of some of the UK’s most celebrated chefs, including Clare Smyth, Simon Rogan, Spencer Metzger, Jean Delport, Kirk Haworth, and national chef of the year Danny Young.

Skyra will next present its innovations to the global hospitality community at Ambiente Frankfurt 2026, Hall 11.0, A18, where the range will be available for review once again.

Zwiesel Fortessa appoints Christoph Berscheid

Christoph Berscheid recently took over as head of sales professional/HoReCa for the DACH region at Zwiesel Fortessa AG. The 47-year-old business graduate brings with him many years of experience in the hospitality and tabletop industry, including management positions at BHS tabletop AG and WMF Professional. With his expertise and passion for tabletop products, Berscheid will continue to drive Zwiesel Fortessa's growth in the B2B sector. “I have always been fascinated by the products and people in this field,” says Berscheid.

Portmeirion Group appoints Michael Scheepers

The Portmeirion Group PLC recently announced the appointment of Michael Scheepers as group brand and commercial director.

Michael joins Portmeirion from Le Creuset where he spent over nine years in senior leadership roles, including group commercial director and regional CEO (EMEA).

In his role, Michael will lead Portmeirion’s global ecommerce, own retail and brand marketing teams and will also have responsibility for the UK sales division. He will report into Group CEO, Mike Raybould, as part of the company’s refreshed senior leadership team.

Vista Alegre reaffirms commitment to sustainability and social responsibility

Portuguese porcelain giant launches ceramic recycling project, and commits to sustainable practices

The Vista Alegre Group, which comprises six industrial units dedicated to the production of porcelain, crystal and glass, earthenware, and stoneware, has reaffirmed its commitment to a growth strategy grounded in sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility. The Group’s industrial units operate in an integrated manner, promoting responsible practices throughout the entire value chain.

Sustainable Production and Circular Economy

The raw materials used by the Vista Alegre Group are rigorously selected to ensure standards of excellence, while also being sourced from ethical and environmentally responsible suppliers.

The company has been implementing production processes designed to minimize waste and optimize energy efficiency, thereby reducing the environmental impact of its operations. In this context, the following initiatives stand out:

■ Increased incorporation of recycled raw materials, strengthening circularity within the industrial units.

■ Continuous reduction of waste, with all waste and by-products being directed to certified recipients.

■ Reintroduction of defective pieces into the production process, ensuring that materials previously discarded are reintegrated into the production line, contributing to waste reduction. Whenever possible, these volumes will be disclosed in physical units (pieces or tonnes), prioritizing transparency.

Energy Transition and Renewable Sources

The Vista Alegre Group has been accelerating its transition to the use of clean energy. Currently, a significant share of the electricity

supplied to the Group originates from renewable sources, and it is expected that, in the near future, this percentage will reach 100 per cent of total consumption.

In parallel, photovoltaic panels are being installed across the six industrial units, enabling the production of energy for self-consumption and ensuring a reduction of between 20 per cent and 30 per cent in electricity consumption.

Carbon Reduction

In line with its decarbonization commitment, the Group has been adapting its kilns for the progressive use of hydrogen, biomethane, and other renewable sources, thereby reducing dependence on natural gas. Taking 2019 as the base year, Vista Alegre Atlantis SGPS has already achieved a 12 per cent reduction in direct CO₂ emissions by 2023.

Among the results already achieved are:

■ Vista Alegre Atlantis SA: avoidance of 246.32 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent; ■ Faianças Artísticas Bordallo Pinheiro SA: avoidance of 82.23 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent.

With the adoption of the planned measures, reductions in energy consumption are expected to reach -50 per cent by 2050. Regarding the plan to reduce CO2, the goal is a 50 per cent reduction in total emissions by 2030.

The Vista Alegre Group reaffirms a vision for the future in which industrial tradition is combined with innovation and environmental and social responsibility. Continuous investment in sustainable technologies, ethical practices, and community engagement reflects a robust strategy to ensure increasingly responsible production aligned with global challenges.

Vista Alegre launches pioneering ceramic recycling project in partnership with Mota Ceramic Solutions

At Vista Alegre, sustainability is a core commitment embedded across all areas of activity. The raw materials used are carefully selected, ensuring not only the highest standards of quality but also sourcing from ethical and sustainable origins. Production processes are designed to minimise environmental impact through waste reduction and the optimisation of energy consumption, supported by continuous efficiency measures and innovation. Within this framework of ongoing improvement, Vista Alegre has partnered with Mota Ceramic Solutions (Mota CS) to develop a pioneering project at a global level in the field of circular economy applied to ceramics. This initiative takes shape through the creation of a dedicated container for the collection of end-of-life ceramic items, which will subsequently be directed to recycling by Mota CS. The pilot project will be launched in Ílhavo (Portugal) with the installation of the first container at Largo da Vista Alegre, making it available to the entire community and encouraging public participation in the disposal of ceramic pieces.

Through this partnership, Vista Alegre and Mota Ceramic Solutions join forces to protect natural resources by promoting the collection of ceramic items no longer in use by consumers. These materials can then be reintegrated into the production process, enabling the reuse of raw materials in ceramic manufacturing across various industries and avoiding the extraction of new clays and other natural resources.

This innovative project represents a significant step towards a truly circular economy model and reinforces Vista Alegre’s commitment to environmental sustainability, while also engaging the community in an active contribution to nature conservation — a simple everyday action with a tangible impact on the future of the planet.

Zwiesel Glas collaborates with iconic sommelier Antonine Pétrus

Zwiesel Glas has collaborated with Antoine Pétrus, one of France’s most renowned sommeliers and two-time Meilleur Ouvrier de France to create a new glass series.

The Perfect Match by Antoine Pétrus collection, consists of two perfectly complementary tasting glasses. At the end of an intensive development process involving numerous tastings by international glass and wine experts from various prototypes, a glass in two different sizes was able to meet the

Inspired by… old world heritage

Anfora’s Puebla collection was first hand-painted in 1920, a living pattern continuously produced for more than a century in North America, brushstroke by brushstroke. Cobalt blues dance alongside smooth accents, forming a rhythm that feels timeless yet endlessly alive.

Today, Puebla is crafted by nearly 1,000 people at Anfora’s factory in Mexico, a community that reflects the same richness and happiness found in the pattern itself. This is tableware shaped by collective skill, generational knowledge, and a deep respect for craftsmanship—produced at scale, yet never losing its soul.

www.anfora.com

ambitious requirements. The collection covers the entire oenological spectrum and enables a complete and balanced interpretation of wine: No. 1 is ideal for red and white wines and impresses with its density, balance, and aromatic clarity.

No. 2 highlights rosé and sparkling wines in a special way, giving them freshness and precision. The glasses are made in Germany from Tritan crystal glass.

www.zwiesel-glas.com

Arc takes us to the disco!

Look out for the Disco collection from Arc – a complete cocktail solution with six contemporary shapes, each designed for specific serves – from Spritz and Mojitos to spirit-forward classics. Sleek silhouettes and fine rims combine style and practicality, making the range ideal for high-volume service.

Meanwhile, Wells joins as a new beer stemglass concept, elevating beer presentation with unbranded crystal glass formats suited to craft, local, and premium brews. For desserts, Jolly bowls offer a modern, versatile design that showcases layers, colours, and textures—perfect for the growing trend of visually striking, shareable creations. www.arctableware.com

A first for Mesa as it launches Uno ovenware

This year marks a first for Mesa as it launches its new ovenware products — a set of two sizes of stylish roasters. Launching in the best-selling Dots colourways — beige, green, and blue — these pieces beautifully complement the acclaimed Uno collection, creating a cohesive and contemporary look. The first ovenware piece is perfectly tailored to enhance the Uno collection’s aesthetic. With its minimalist silhouette, soft curves, and modern design, this roaster embodies sophisticated simplicity. Crafted from high-quality stoneware, it offers durability and excellent heat retention, making it an ideal vessel for oven use. Designed with versatility in mind, these roasters effortlessly transition from oven to table, serving as stunning centerpieces that elevate any casual or modern kitchen decor. Their generous size and robust construction make them perfect for cooking, serving, and impressing guests alike.

www.mesa-ceramics.com

Nick Holland designs new cutlery series for Vista Alegre

Following the success of the Domo collection by Vista Alegre, designed by Nick Holland during his 13-year tenure as design director for Vista Alegre, the company recently commissioned Nick to design a new cutlery collection. Império is a classic modern design in 18/10 stainless steel and will be showcased at Ambiente.

Sambonet has the edge

At Ambiente, Sambonet (Hall 12.1, C01) will present its new Black Edge line. Completing its offering, the Italian company returns to the market with this new knife collection, characterised by a bold identity and high technical performance. The blade is made from German steel and treated using the ice hardening technique, which makes it exceptionally hard and durable. Its matte appearance is the result of an Xynflon coating, which also enhances the blade’s performance in terms of smooth cutting and non-stick properties, while protecting it from moisture and helping to reduce stains and marks.

The handle, made from nylon, features an extremely lightweight and ergonomic design, giving this new knife line a distinctive and

The Império collection is a timeless design that complements both traditional and contemporary porcelain ranges from Vista Alegre, recently winning a Gold Award from the International Architecture & Design Awards 2025.

With a presence and refinement that is reminiscent of classic French cutlery from the 19th century, the cutlery has a comfortable feel in the hand and a generous weight and balance that gives a true quality feel. In its purity and essential simplicity of design it reminds of Japanese ethos and style, and complements any dining table aesthetic, whether modern or more traditional. www.vistaalegre.com

Coucou Colette

The Parisian passion for flowers was inspiration for Beatriz Ball’s Colette collection, presented in metal, in enamelled metal, and in luxury melamine. Featuring lively petal-like rims, the Colette pieces

Beatriz Ball’s new Encanto Colette Large Bowl (in camelia and white) incorporating vibrant enamelled colour and gold-tone details on sand-cast metal is dishwasher safe and may be used as a serving piece as well as a

www.beatrizball.com

We love … Rig-Tig X Moomin

Moomin Winter illustrations bring life to Rig-Tig’s Drink-It bottles and Click To Go line.

The bottles are lightweight, leakproof, and double-walled to keep drinks hot or cold but also boast a super cute aesthetic. Perfect for school, family outings, or daily life, they are now available in three new motifs.

www.rig-tig.com

Royal Scot Crystal expands its range

In response to a growing global appreciation for hand-cut crystal, Royal Scot Crystal has revealed it has recently expanded its range. Enthusiasts can now choose from iconic square and ships decanters, tumblers in various shapes and sizes as well as trend-setting Copa glasses perfect for the ultimate G&T. For those who prefer a vintage aesthetic, the elegant champagne coupes offer a graceful nod to the past, while the newly introduced stemmed beer glasses have quickly become a contemporary favourite.

Bespoke artistry remains at the heart of the business. From corporate commissions to prestigious limited-edition Royal Commemorative pieces, engraved glassware continues to capture history in crystal. Much of the brand’s inspiration is drawn from its deep roots, with many designs featuring a profound Scottish influence. The signature Scottish Thistle and Flower of Scotland suites are standout examples.

Visit www.royalscotcrystal.com for more.

Ambiente Fr ankfurt Am Main

6 — 10 / 2 / 2026

Hall 12.1

Stand D05

Re ned by time, perfected in detail.

Rak Porcelain at the Chef’s Table

RAK Porcelain took centre stage at a recent four-hands dinner at Maison du Val, in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, which brought together two chefs whose culinary identities are distinct yet highly complementary. Chef Étienne Berg, executive chef of the Les Hôtels Très Particuliers group, joined forces with chef Thomas Chisholm, of ChoCho, Paris and

Sambonet’s Radici enjoys five-star

support

Sambonet’s Radici buffet trolley was a key launch for the brand in 2025. Launched at HOST Milano, the trolley has been incredibly well received but one of the first to provide professional support was Domenico Zanotti. With a career rooted in high-end hospitality, Domenico Zanotti is a key figure at Lido Palace in Riva del Garda, one of the area’s most renowned destinations, offering a five-star service recognised by the Michelin Guide along with being a long-standing client of Rosenthal and Sambonet. His approach integrates service, object and guest interaction. Thanks to Domenico’s expertise, the Radici buffet trolleys have been developed to genuinely meet the needs of professionals.

©Rebecca Pfiffer

candidate of Top Chef France, for an evening defined by precision, creativity, and exchange. Pastry chef Maud Ducsalvatori completed the experience with desserts marked by clarity and finesse.

Making the occasion even more momentous was the choice of RAK Porcelain plates which accompanied the chefs’ creations.

The spirit of creativity

In February 2025, Alexander Herrmann and Tobias Bätz opened their future lab ANIMA in Wirsberg, Franconia. The remarkable fermentation lab is the creative heart of the Michelin-starred restaurant, Aura. Here, food expert Joshi Osswald and fermentation specialist Christoph Vejdovsky experiment with traditional preservation techniques. The high-quality ingredients are sourced 100 per cent from the region and used according to the season.

Anima Unchained, their pop-up concept, offers a unique culinary adventure with innovative dishes like vegan turnip ham and Zunello Hirnato (deer tongue with pig’s brain cream). The presentation emphasises natural, elegant design, using Zwiesel Fortessa collections. The chefs chose items from the Sound Midnight, Nivo, and Terra Nova ranges from Fortessa as the stage for their creations. The drinks are served in elegant Fusion wine glasses and colourful Sonido water glasses from Zwiesel Glas. Anima Unchained embodies a culinary adventure that leads diners into uncharted flavour territories.

Did you know?

Promocan Ltd, the long-established UK specialist in tin can products for the hospitality sector, has announced the introduction of new 12, 24 and 48 unit trade packs for its popular tin can cutlery holders. The new pack options make it easier than ever for restaurants, pubs and bars, cafés and caterers to order the quantities they need, from small independents to multi-site operators. Each cutlery holder is made in the UK from tin-free steel with internal and external food-safe lacquer coatings and was originally commissioned by Pizza Hut in the late 2000s.

Ukrainian potter Serhii Martynko is a man who lives and breathes ceramics. Despite the turmoil of having to uproot his life when his home country was plunged into war with Russia, Serhii has seen growing success with his natural, organic handmade products…

Thepotterpassionate

Ukrainian potter Serhii Martynko sells his handmade clay products via his online store Clay Products Shop. From ceramic pots and cookware to pitchers (the potter’s personal favourite) to bowls, plates and platters and even handmade kettles and teapots – Serhii’s intricate collection of pieces are an homage to his home country.

Now based in the United States, he threw his first piece of clay on the potter’s wheel in 2014. What resulted was not just a small coffee cup but a transformational experience which

changed the course of Serhii’s life trajectory. A passion was born, and it is this passion which has seen him grow his business.

With a background in engineering, the ambitious Serhii opened his studio in Dnipro, Ukraine in 2015, where he built his business from the ground up. He first exhibited his wares at local fairs and exhibitions, but by 2017, he had expanded onto Etsy, connecting with customers across the world.

That was until 2023, when war forced him to close his studio, an

Did you know?

Serhii uses an ancient milk-soaking method whereby he shapes the piece, which is then fired in a kiln, immersed in milk, and fired again. This process, he says, naturally seals the pores, strengthens the clay, and gives it a distinctive dark brown finish.

experience he says was incredibly painful. Serhii had joined the Ukrainian armed forces in 2022, following Russia’s declaration of war but was discharged for health reasons in 2023. And with the closure of his studio, Serhii moved to the US – but his Ukrainian warehouse, filled with finished pieces is still operational.

Serhii’s approach to his work is methodical – he understands the ebb and flow of each and every piece. Good design is married with an innate understanding of how ceramics should feel and be. Plates that stack, mugs that rest comfortably in the hand, spouts that pour without dripping, he talks at length about “reliability in use”.

If he were to pinpoint a favourite piece, for him, it is the pitcher –something he says represents both function and symbolism.

Today, Serhii work is found in restaurants across Ukraine, Poland,

the United States, and Canada, while he also retails his pieces to the public via his website.

Despite the challenges his business faces – the result of political turmoil in Ukraine – Serhii’s ultimate dream is to establish a studio and teaching space for both adults and children in the United States.

To learn more about Serhii and his products – visit www. clayproductsshop.com.

Tableware trends for 2026

Retailer Michele Trzuskowski

, owner of T is for Table, has spent time reflecting on upcoming and emerging tabletop trends for the year ahead – she shares her thoughts on key aspects we should look out for…

We’re just about to kick off the tradeshows in the United States where we see all the new introductions that will be hitting the marketplace in the springtime or later. Most trends in dinnerware start in fashion and home décor and then transition to the aesthetics on your table and shelves. What seems to be

About T is for Table

T is for Table is a luxury independent boutique, with a focus on tabletop, in West Palm Beach, Florida. Open more than 20 years, it offers an experiential and inspirational space dedicated to helping customers tell stories, create traditions and celebrate life. The boutique offers everything from fine pottery, china, glass, serveware and table accessories, to home décor, jewellery and body products, and delivers a custom service with its custom engraving, home visits and gift registries. www.tisfortable.com

coming into play in 2026 are inspirations from the past with traditional design elements which are then influenced by modern context. For example, think iconic shapes that are interpreted in a new way, or pieces that have aspects of intricate detailing for example, but are used sparingly as an accent. In 2026, art deco is projected to make a strong comeback in furniture

Mix and Match

The marketplace is still offering intentional mixing and matching by using complimentary finishes and colors that allow customers to create their own curated

current trends.

This mixing and matching also includes bringing vintage and modern

“More mature customers are looking to revive their existing dinnerware with a pop of color or texture”

look. Brides may still be looking for that white on white basic dinnerware, but as they grow, they are incorporating other looks to blend with their existing set. More mature customers are looking to revive their existing dinnerware with a pop of color or texture that refreshes their patterns to more

and home décor, so I’m sure before long you will see this influence in tableware as well.

The overall trend seems to be a combination of art meets realism. However, there still seems to be a focus on personalisation and craftmanship along with sustainability. Here are some key trends to watch for as we start off this new year.

together on the table. By blending the past and the present there is a sense of familiarity while the tablescape is complemented with modern touches lending to their current lifestyles.

An example of this trend is Caskata. Their porcelain dinnerware offers great mix and match

opportunities for the consumer with three of their patterns designed to complement each other. They’re the Stella, Newport/Stripe, and Freya collections in Verde. Not only that, but they offer the Stella and Newport in three different colors all designed to intentionally cross over on the table.

Earthy colourways and organic textures

Tableware will include more muted and grounded colours like muted greens and clays and even soft taupe. Even darker woods are making a strong comeback so expect to see darker colours if not in your dinnerware in your surrounding linens and placemats. Although quiet hues will be strong, they will also be complemented by some bold accents like deep teal, cobalt blues, and burgundy. While colour is important so is the feel and texture of dinnerware – from fine details

“While colour is important so is the feel and texture of dinnerware”

to speckled finishes to reactive glazes and matte finishes. This brings beautiful effects to the table, while still feeling good in your hands. With finishes like these even when they are mass produced, they can feel artisanal. A perfect example of this is

Everyday elegance

Today’s lifestyles are active and full. In this trend, you’ll see your customers wanting dinnerware that transitions from a weekday dinner to a weekend party. They will look for dinnerware that as we say can be “dressed up or dressed down”. Versatility along with “no fuss” functionality yet coordinated tablescape that can wow in either designated setting is a must. Adding personalisation that reflects the consumer’s individuality is also a key component to this trend. There are many companies

Costa Nova’s Pacifica pattern. Available in a number of colours including clay, sage, and taupe, it has a speckled matte finish with a modern design. Another example from this same company is the Dori collection as it has the pop of colour in both the teals and cobalt with reactive glaze finishes.

with offerings in this category. A few of my favorites are Vista Alegre’s Venezia pattern. This porcelain dinnerware set only has metal on the charger so for weekly use the five piece place setting is both dishwasher and microwave safe. In the store we used this on tablescapes often as it was so versatile.

Another pattern that falls in this category is Juliska’s Berry and Thread. Although this stoneware pattern has been around for a while – it’s lasted I believe – due to its flexibility on the table. Like Venezia, it too is easily dressed up for a special dinner party but then at the same time, perfect for everyday use.

Key trend takeaways

■ Traditional design elements are being influenced by modern context

■ Will we see the return of art deco?

■ Mix and match is being talked about it!

■ Texture and the “feel” of tableware is key

“Versatility along with “no fuss” functionality yet coordinated tablescape that can wow in either designated setting is a must”

A final example is Rosenthal’s Kumi collection. This pattern covers both the versatility and mix and match color combination offering the host a multitude of settings all while being easy to use and care for. New trends emerge often based on cultural, design, and fashion events, but you’d be smart to look for these three this coming year.

Eisch’s quiet luxury evolution

The story of Eisch’s evolution from a family of expert glassmakers to quiet luxury specialists is a remarkable tale of ingenuity, tenacity and reinvention. Spanning hundreds of years, the Eisch family’s connection to glassmaking can be traced to as early as 1689. Today, their exceptional story continues, and it is as noteworthy as ever…

The story begins…

In 1946, Valentin and Therese Eisch laid the foundation for what is now known throughout the world as synonymous with quiet luxury: Eisch.

The founder of the 80-yearold family tradition learned his craft at the crystal glass factory of industrialist Isidor Gistl, where he had been employed as a master engraver and decorator since 1914. In 1946, he took the step into self-employment: Together with his wife Therese, Valentin founded their own finishing workshop,

Glashütte Valentin Eisch, to secure a livelihood for their six children.

At that time, the Eisch family could already look back on a long family history: the Eisch family's glassmaking tradition can be traced back to Mathias Alesch, who was born in the Bohemian Forest in 1689 and worked there as an employee of a small glass factory.

Before long the existing, large glassworks in the Bavarian Forest feared that competition was about to appear on the scene. They tried to prevent this by blocking the delivery of raw glass to the Eischs.

“Glass

craftsmanship is not ‘just’ a cultural asset for us, but also an emotional one due to our family history”

Julia Eisch

This would have been the end of the young craft business. It was the boundless courage of Valentin's wife that made the impossible possible: without any prior knowledge of glass melting technology, in 1952 the Eisch family ventured to build their own furnace to establish its own glass production. The fact that the company was founded by workers of the time prevented a strict hierarchy in the glassworks,

which was common at that time.

Strengthened by this difficult period of the founding years the interaction between the family members and the employees resulted in a continuous upward progression.

The inspirational Erwin Another important figure in the history of the Eisch glassworks was Erwin Eisch. He was a pioneer and guiding spirit of the studio

“We

keep in mind the value of traditional craftsmanship, which we ourselves learned from our parents and grandparents, and draw on it for ideas for a new, contemporary aesthetic”

Julia Eisch

“The

SENSISPLUS-glasses are amazingly effective in helping wines taste smoother, fruitier and more forward when poured from a freshly opened bottle”

master sommelier and master of wine Ronn R. Wiegand

glass movement in Europe, which emerged in the 1960s. As a lateral thinker, Erwin Eisch inspired not only other artists but also his family members. As children, the third generation of Eisch owners, Eberhard and Julia Eisch, were introduced to the world of glass art by their uncle Erwin - be it through "painting on glass for children" or encounters with glass artists from all over the world. The love of glass and its fascination were omnipresent in the extended Eisch family.

The magic of SENSISPLUS

In 2005 the Eisch family succeeded with the creation of SENSISPLUS glasses in achieving a milestone in the development of wine glasses. During Ambiente 2005 the master sommelier and master of wine Ronn R. Wiegand presented the SENSISPLUS glasses with conviction to a large audience of wine enthusiasts for the first time. Today, wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts worldwide are convinced of SENSISPLUS-glasses but the magic behind SENSISPLUS remains a wellkept secret of Eisch.

In 2022, the professional association of independent wine experts selected the SENSISPLUS line ESSENCA SENSISPLUS as the clear test winner in an extensive glass comparison test. The exceptional effectiveness of SENSISPLUS for wine enjoyment was thus once again competently and independently confirmed.

In 2019, the red wine glass SKY SENSISPLUS and the Bordeaux glass UNITY SENSISPLUS had already emerged as winners in FuW glass comparison tastings.

passion for creating unforgettable experiences, Eisch stands for the highest level of craftsmanship.

The range includes masterpieces of tableware: from ornate decanters and fine wine glasses to the groundbreaking SENSISPLUS collections. Many of these creations are elaborately handcrafted with 24-carat gold, platinum, silver, or copper – an

Today Eisch Germany embodies quiet luxury and timeless elegance –a brand that tells a story with every glass. Characterised by generations of glassmaking artistry, deeply rooted in the Bavarian Forest, and a

Sensisplus perfects glasses already shaped specifically for beverages

expression of pure sophistication that makes each glass a sensual one-of-a-kind piece and guarantees an extraordinary drinking experience.

The shopping experience is also exceptional: Glashütte Eisch has

Did you know?

The design of Eisch products has been recognised with numerous awards, including the Tableware International Award of Excellence, the Dineus Tableware Award and Manufactured Product of the Year.

earned an excellent reputation among its customers. Eisch has repeatedly topped the list of preferred industry partners selected by the German Glass and Porcelain Specialist Retail Association.

A new chapter: Eisch becomes part of Zwiesel Fortessa In politically and economically uncertain times, the focus on regionality and traditional values gains importance. At the same time, the courage to explore new paths and drive innovation is crucial for a successful future.

Based on this insight, the

decision was made to become part of Zwiesel Fortessa - a worldleading company for exclusive tableware with over 150 years of tradition - from October 2025. Over the years, the two companies have collaborated on various projects and inspired one another through their mutual commitment to innovation and excellence. With this acquisition, they are combining their forces to offer an even broader and more compelling portfolio for upscale and luxury dining in both the consumer and professional sectors. This step reflects their shared vision of bringing regional

craftsmanship to a global stage and unlocking new growth opportunities.

“The integration of EISCH is much more than a strategic move – it is a matter of the heart that embodies our passion for glass as well as our vision of luxury and excellence. It underscores our commitment to bringing premium glass from the famous glass region in the Bavarian Forest to the tables of the world,” says Prof. Andreas Buske, owner and CEO of Zwiesel Fortessa.

On the Zwiesel Fortessa side, head of marketing Michael

"The integration of EISCH is much more than a strategic move – it is a matter of the heart that embodies our passion for glass as well as our vision of luxury and excellence"

Prof. Andreas Buske, owner and CEO of Zwiesel Fortessa

Eichinger, Julia Eisch’s second son, oversees the brands and ensures Eisch’s alignment within the broader organization. The family business Eisch lives on in a larger family with which it shares its values and visions.

Eisch’s unique collections of drinking glasses and interior objects, along with innovative refinement techniques, enrich the portfolio of Zwiesel Fortessa. The quiet luxury and timeless elegance enhances the expertise in sophisticated glass refinement of the brand and concept provider in the luxury segment.

Tableware

Trend Analyst

Donna

Donna Ferrari has worked in magazine publishing for over thirty years. As a consumer magazine editor she specialised in the tableware, homeware and bridal markets, and styled and produced stories related to bridal gift registry, wedding reception design and at-home entertaining. Personally, she has eleven different sets of dinnerware and closets dedicated just to tabletop accessories; she says she loves not ever having to set her table the same way twice.

Tableware on the scene

Tableware, always on point with lifestyle trends, presents a range of new, naturalistic, colourful, reimagined, haptic, and innovative designs.

Trend expert Donna Ferrari highlights some notable examples

Connecting with nature

From fantasy to folksy, stylised to naturalistic, trends in tableware abound with patterns designed to connect us with nature.

Swarovski x Rosenthal’s Idyllia tableware and home décor collection features a variety of fruits, exotic blooms, and rainforest-dwelling birds, with some pieces, like the capped mug shown, topped with a medallion crafted from Swarovski Crystal. At Pip Studio, The Pip & The Blue Bird collection’s folk-style elements align with the current trend towards charming, rustic decorative themes. Hermès’ Kaorumi collection, named after a Japanese expression meaning a fragrant sight, was designed by Ryo Takemasa. The twelve fruit-forward designs offer a botanical study with the minimalist trend perspective. Perfect as a conversation starter, Fürstenberg’s Rêverie dinnerware, with décor by Dimitri Rybaltchenko, teases the imagination with its surreal-like clouds and search for hidden animal and insect images. A collaboration between Stefanie Hering and César Giraldo, the Hering Berlin Waves & Clouds dinner service features motifs taken from both the sea and the sky. The Waves pieces’ photorealistic designs are rendered in deep cobalt on the glazed centres, whilst visions of soft clouds float on those with matt bisque finishes. Once again, a trend for near-photographic imagery is employed to define a dinnerware design, as seen in Porcel’s Royal Bloom pattern. Hyperrealism transforms a tradition of floral décor into a modern aesthetic.

Fürstenberg

Colour up

Consumers are gravitating towards tableware patterns with punch and personality, along with colours that up their appeal.

Villeroy & Boch’s Fleur collection, designed by Helena Boddenberg, redefines floral patterns with abstract graphics and vibrant colours. The Café Kitsuné x Iittala limited-edition mug collection utilises the manufacturer’s Teema shape, decorated with four different coloured designs inspired by the Tokyo-Paris tea and coffee house dynasty’s signature swirl atop the lattes they serve. Juliska’s Harriet Shot Glasses with coloured ruffled trims are pure cocktailhour eye candy. Gien’s Route des Indes dinnerware, featuring imagery by the widely travelled painter Arnaud d’Aunay, portrays the subcontinent’s rich palette amid everyday life. Perfect for the personalisation trend, One Color dinnerware is available in nine different solid colours. A single-colour place setting can stand alone or merrily mixed with the

Reimaging the old

As pressures of the modern world accelerate and the latest trends are largely short-lived, a nostalgia for the comfort of familiar traditional designs and earlier ways of doing things is emerging. Tableware brands are tapping into this trend by reimagining their classics to suit contemporary tastes and reintroducing long-ago popular products to a new generation.

A collection inspired by the Lyon silks Napoleon once commissioned, Bernardaud’s Trianon collection transforms those fabrics' opulent Empire style into a modern mix of checkered patterns decked with rosettes, flowers, butterflies, and birds. Commemorating the 250th Wedgwood’s Bacchus collection, which features pieces in bone china, crystal, and Jasperware, embodies storytelling and celebrates the Bacchanalian motifs that have been

Set in Citron and Turquoise (shown) — a must for those with maximalist taste. Spode surprises by whimsically presenting its heritage Blue Italian pattern on a playful accent piece. The Meissen company's famed Blue Onion pattern, first introduced around 1739, inspires the 300-year-old company’s new pattern, named The Original. The seven bold colourways in the range complement today’s no-holds-barred tablescapes, beau idéal for posting on Instagram. First launched in 1974, the Sunflower votives from Boda, designed by Göran Wärff, are part of the brand’s reissue catalogue, which features select archival products reintroduced for a new audience. In line with sustainable production, the votives

Keep in touch

Using tableware engages all five senses — enabling the sight, smell, and taste of food, the sound of clinking glasses, and especially the tactile pleasure of touching and holding the vessels that serve us.

Rosenthal meets Versace’s Barocco 3D collection, adorned with acanthus scrolls and leaves in hyper-3D detail, evident in both look and feel. Royal Copenhagen marked its 250th anniversary in 2025 with a selection of special collections, including the sculptural Kontur objects, with forms that mimic the rhythmic rolling and fluidity of waves. JW Anderson’s fashions are all about the new and now, yet is inspired by a 5th-century Greek design. The two mug options called Turned and Ribbed (shown) are available in three different colour pairings. The Afina dinnerware and glassware created by Christian Haas, are characterised by a raised relief of radiating lines, making the tactile design a treatment in keeping with a presents Opulence, a collection of drinkware and home décor. The design’s texture, crafted by the deep, intricate cuts and layered patterning, creates a heightened sensory experience, which can be further enhanced by the

unconventional outré design ideas and materials are shaking up the world of tabletop.

At Serax, Dutch designer Annebet Philips’ Carte Blanche porcelain coffee and tea set challenges conventions. Each piece mirrors the hand-drawn contour lines used in design and resembles the naïve shapes made from cardboard used for the prototypes. The Tiffany & Co. x Fondation César a collection of dessert plates and espresso cups with saucers, as well as small spoons. César Baldaccini, a prominent figure in the Nouveau Réalisme art movement, was at the forefront of repurposing scrap materials to use for his work. The collection pays tribute to the cracked and shattered-looking ceramic designs of the Assiette Brisee (Broken Plate) dishes, designed by the artist in 1973. Puriforcat’s Jersey cutlery, chopsticks, and salad servers, designed by Jasper Morrison, are made of lacquered cherry wood. The archetypal shapes reflect the designer's philosophy of “super normal” — embodying the quintessential beauty in everyday simplicity. From within Rosenthal’s classic Bauhaus TAC service, conceptualised by Walter Gropius, the new TAC Glitch pattern’s retro-inspired aesthetic, designed by Tommaso Guerra, reinterprets traditional dinnerware décors, such as lines, stripes, borders, and decorative ornaments, into a tumble of off-centre motifs.

When RAK Porcelain design brand was a collective industry gasp – and yet, it all makes perfect sense. But how will the Basque design-led brand fare under the might of RAK Porcelain?

Sven

Bodry

Porcelain and creative director of Cookplay give Tableware International their perspectives…

The greatest play in tableware?

Sven, it certainly came as a surprise earlier this year to hear Cookplay had been acquired by RAK. How long was the deal being hammered out behind the scenes? Like any strategic decision of this importance, the process took time. Discussions developed

“Protecting Cookplay’s design authenticity is fundamental. Ana Roquero’s creative vision remains central to the brand”

with the contemporary chef community. Since its foundation, RAK Porcelain has always worked closely with chefs to develop products that combine functionality, durability and relevance in real service conditions.

Cookplay adds an additional creative dimension to this dialogue. It strengthens one of RAK’s core values: being a trusted and inspiring partner for chefs who seek both performance and

Is it important for you to protect Cookplay’s designled authenticity, something founder Ana Roquero really

Cookplay’s design authenticity is fundamental. Ana Roquero’s creative vision remains central to the brand, and that is precisely what makes Cookplay so respected within

How will the collaboration work in real life, given the different development rhythms of the two companies?

The collaboration is based on complementarity, not uniformity. Cookplay will continue to develop collections at its own rhythm, focusing on carefully considered, design-driven launches. At

The evolution of Cookplay

Ana Roquero, founder and creative director of Cookplay, speaks with Tableware International about what the brand’s acquisition by RAK Porcelain means for them…

“After 10 years, we have become renowned as one of the best designdriven tableware brands thanks to our innovative vision of the table. It was the moment to choose the right direction for the next 10 years, which will represent the true bloom of the brand. We can do this step by step with our current structure and management, or we can do it

“We have always aimed to be different and innovative, while remaining deeply rooted in our Basque origins”

by expanding our business concept, gaining size, positioning and confidence through the support of a

We have always aimed to be different and innovative, while remaining deeply rooted in our Basque origins, guided by our

exceptional gastronomy and a love for the good life. Over these 10 years, we have earned awards and recognition, now, in our stage of mature adolescence, we feel ready to rise to the level required to perform on the great stage of cultural and global leadership that RAK Porcelain offers us.

It all began with a porcelain

“Design is the greatest value of Cookplay, for this reason, the brand’s independence and individual identity will be fully respected”

design project commissioned by RAK Porcelain and confidence grew over time through trips to the Emirates, conversations about future possibilities and the idea of collaboration.

At the same time, our market is experiencing a period of strong homogeneity in new product typologies, resulting in increasingly uniform offerings and a lack of brand identity and personality. This landscape, driven by globalisation and intense competition, has been

reinforced by new technological and communication tools that make it easy to copy products and rapidly follow trends set by the most creative brands.

In this new context, brands must be faster and stronger when launching new products and new concepts into the market. I am convinced that RAK Porcelain’s global excellence will help us face this new market reality with confidence and strength.

Design is the greatest value of Cookplay, for this reason, the brand’s independence and individual identity will be fully respected, positioning Cookplay within the group as the top design-driven brand.

This acquisition also responds to a personal and strategic objective: gaining greater distance from certain operational and financial matters, as well as from the administrative responsibilities that come with being a CEO. Now, after 35 years as an entrepreneur, I will be able to dedicate myself 100 per cent to what I enjoy most and where I create the most value: creative direction, product innovation strategy and brand communication.”

Moving on, how would you sum up 2025 for the tabletop industry?

2025 has been a demanding but ultimately clarifying year for the tabletop industry. Market conditions have remained selective, rewarding brands with strong foundations, clear positioning and a close connection to hospitality professionals, while exposing those no longer fully aligned with market expectations. Customers are increasingly value-driven, focusing on reliability, durability and well-designed solutions that

been the economic pressure faced by the hospitality industry itself. Rising operating costs have forced restaurateurs and hoteliers to reassess investments and focus even more on value, longevity and efficiency.

In response, RAK Porcelain has continuously adapted to support hospitality professionals with solutions that balance durability, functionality and design, while remaining aligned with real operational needs and budget realities. This has reinforced the importance of proximity to the market, active listening and practical, customer-driven innovation.

“2025 has been a demanding but ultimately clarifying year for the tabletop industry”

perform consistently in real operating conditions.

In this context, RAK Porcelain has experienced positive and steady momentum throughout the year. This reflects the importance of staying close to the market, maintaining operational discipline and investing with a long-term perspective, even in a more competitive environment.

What have the key challenges been, in RAK Porcelain’s experience?

The primary challenge has

Finally, what are your key objectives for RAK Porcelain for the foreseeable future?

Our priorities are clear: sustainable growth, strengthening partnerships with hospitality professionals and continuing to develop products that are relevant, reliable and inspiring. We will keep investing in people, design and operational excellence, while staying true to our core mission — supporting chefs, restaurateurs and hoteliers worldwide with solutions they can trust over the long term.

This February, one of the most influential trade fair events for the tabletop industry takes place. Ambiente’s global relevance is unsurpassed, which is why from 6th to 10th February, Frankfurt is “the”only place to be…

“Ambiente, brings clarity in a complex market”

“My hope is that Ambiente 2026 gives the industry confidence and momentum,” Thomas Kastl, Ambiente’s director of dining tells Tableware International ahead of the industry’s premiere showcase.

Frankfurt plays host, once again, to the tabletop sector’s largest international trade gathering from Friday 6 to Tuesday 10 February. Ambiente 2026 is a large scale event like no other bringing representatives from most – if not all – of the industry together. “I want visitors to leave Frankfurt inspired, well-connected and optimistic,” Thomas says. “If

retailers discover products that excite them, if manufacturers find the right partners, and if meaningful conversations happen across cultures and markets, then Ambiente has fulfilled its role. At its core, it’s about bringing people together around the table – and creating a shared vision for the future of dining.”

Thomas continues: “Ambiente brings clarity in a complex market. For the tableware sector, it is the one moment in the year where the entire value chain meets face to face. Retailers can compare materials, finishes and concepts

Did you know?

In 2026, a total of 335 exhibitors at Frankfurt’s trio of consumer goods trade fairs will carry the Ethical Style Label. Of these, 289 are from Ambiente, 32 from Christmasworld and 14 from Creativeworld, with 123 participants being newly judged by an independent, international jury of experts.

directly, spot trends early and talk to manufacturers about real-world challenges. Beyond products, Ambiente is about orientation: understanding where dining culture is heading, how consumer

Ambiente, of course, is part of the larger International Consumer Goods Fair, held on site at Messe Frankfurt, bringing together exhibitors from Christmasworld, and Creativeworld, so the event is

“I want visitors to leave Frankfurt inspired, well-connected and optimistic”

Thomas

Kastl, director dining, Ambiente

expectations are changing and how design, function and storytelling come together at the table.”

The majority of the big brand names are there; Rak Porcelain, Villeroy & Boch, Rosenthal, Steelite, Sambonet, Vista Alegre, Costa Nova, Zwiesel Fortessa, the list goes on – all seeing the innate value Ambiente offers.

truly a global gathering. Ambiente itself offers three distinct sections –Living, Giving and Dining – meeting the needs of retailers as well as commercial end users. Ambiente fuses together a large cauldron of energy and excitement, culminating ultimately, in business connections.

“What excites me most is the energy that emerges when products, people and ideas come together in

“For brands like Porcel, it’s a great opportunity to connect personally with clients from across our 50 markets and to showcase not just products, but also our vision and innovation”

Ana Luisa Roque, Porcel

a very tangible way,” Thomas says.

“Ambiente 2026 will once again be a place where you don’t just see trends – you experience them. The Dining halls, the kitchen show with its live moments, and the materialfocused presentations turn the fair into a real stage. It’s about touching materials, understanding surfaces, feeling weight and quality. Whether that’s finely

crafted glass from Nachtmann and Spiegelau, expressive porcelain from Villeroy & Boch, Denby or Portmeirion Group, or innovative hospitality solutions from RAK Porcelain Europe. That physical, sensory experience that trade shows like Ambiente offer is something our industry truly needs right now – and Ambiente delivers exactly that.”

Ultimately, for the exhibitors, who invest in attending the show – Ambiente must deliver.

“Ambiente is an influential international event for the tableware industry. It brings together global players, from designers to buyers and creates a space where trends are launched, partnerships are formed and ideas are exchanged,” president of Porcel, Ana Luisa Roque, explains. “For brands like Porcel, it’s a great opportunity to connect personally with clients from across our 50 markets and to showcase not just products, but also our vision and innovation.” Interestingly, this year Porcel are unveiling a new stand concept. “It’s modern, elegant and immersive, designed to reflect Porcel’s identity and our ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability. Visitors will discover new collections that combine artistic expression with technical sophistication,

Ambiente Designer of the Year

Question corner MESA

Why is Ambiente such an important show for you?

“On average, Mesa participates in four international fairs each year.

We have a very focused strategy, so we invest in the fairs that offer us the greatest return. Ambiente is undoubtedly the best event, and it is the one we invest the most in because it marks the beginning of a new year and the launch of a new collection.

We have been fortunate to attract our best clients through pre-scheduled meetings, and each year, we also manage to build relationships with new clients through the fair. We feel that Ambiente sets the tone for the coming year, and for us, the spirit has always been very positive. That’s why our expectations are high, and we are looking forward to another successful Ambiente fair.”

Francisco Braga, CEO, Mesa Ceramics

as well as highlights from our bespoke and design-led approach that continues to set us apart.”

Another brand who invests heavily in their stand is Bonna, with CEO Erbil Aşkan telling Tableware International how the brand presents itself on its stand is of crucial importance. “We always place great importance on visual presentation. This stems from the fact that we are a designdriven brand and that the visual appeal of

Katty Schiebeck is Ambiente Designer of the Year 2026. With her clear design language, refined sense for atmosphere, and uncompromising commitment to quality, Katty Schiebeck is considered one of the most innovative voices in contemporary interior architecture. Born in Uruguay and of German heritage, she founded her studio in Barcelona – a city whose creativity and Mediterranean lightness continue to shape her style to this day. Schiebeck’s designs combine warm materials such as wood and marble with minimalist lines and architectural balance. She stands for high-end interior and furniture design, particularly in the luxury and hospitality sectors. The result: spaces that radiate both tranquillity and presence.

our products matters greatly to us. We work with some of Türkiye’s leading architects for fairs, and last year our Ambiente fair stand design was awarded the A’Design Bronze Award. This year, we hope

RAK

What can we expect from the RAK stand at Ambiente 2026?

“Ambiente remains a key strategic platform for RAK Porcelain. Visitors can expect a stand that reflects our hospitality expertise, scale and design approach, with a strong focus on clarity, storytelling and real-life application. Beyond presenting products, the stand is designed to demonstrate how RAK Porcelain supports hospitality professionals in their daily

to ensure our brand is perceived correctly.”

For companies such as The Bornego Group, Ambiente is also considered an “essential date in the trade fair diary” according to

“Heinen Delfts Blauw is a stock-holding supplier, making us an appealing partner for buyers that want to make an impact with new collections for spring 2026”

Leanne van Doleweerd, sales & project manager Heinen Delfts Blauw

that our visual presentation will once again impress all visitors. We enjoy surprising people and place strong emphasis on aesthetics. For us, a strong presentation is always essential to accurately convey Bonna’s identity and vision and

Maarten Lohuis, manager projects & new business. “It is the leading international platform for both the retail and hospitality sectors. Given that our brands are active in both segments, it is the ideal place to present our collections

challenges. In addition, the upcoming edition will feature a dedicated Cookplay area, clearly expressing how both brands can coexist within the same group while preserving their distinct identities, creative languages and styles — united by shared values and a common vision for hospitality.”

Sven Bodry, director of operations, RAK Porcelain

in a relevant and targeted environment. Many of our existing customers visit Ambiente, making it an important opportunity to establish contacts, exchange ideas and strengthen relationships. At the same time, the trade fair offers valuable opportunities to meet new partners and build new relationships that support the further development of our longterm strategy,” Maarten explains. Ambiente’s scope is far reaching, and that, perhaps, is one of its greatest assets – it attracts exhibitors and retails from across the globe, one of these being Polish brand Polska Grupa Porcelanowa (Ćmielów, Chodzież, Lubiana). Joanna Niedziela, director of domestic sales and marketing, describes Ambiente as “much more than just a commercial platform – it is a barometer of global trends and a place where we define the future of the table”.

Joanna continues: “This is a key moment in our calendar, because it is here, in confrontation with the

global market, that we validate our visions. Their presence in Frankfurt is proof that Polish design not only follows trends but increasingly sets them.”

Looking at the tabletop industry as a whole, Joanna says: “I see a fascinating evolution. The market is becoming increasingly demanding, but in a positive sense. We are moving away from consumerism in favour of a conscious lifestyle. Customers are tired of mass repetition and impermanence. This is a huge opportunity for European manufacturers who focus on quality. Of course, cost pressure and raw material instability remain a challenge, but the biggest advantage of the current situation is a return to authenticity. In 2026, consumers will be looking for items with soul, history and transparent origins – and this is embedded in the DNA of our brands.

“That is why I predict that 2026 will be a good year for porcelain, provided that we understand the new definition of luxury. It is no longer just about price or gilding, but about time spent with loved ones at a beautiful

Ethical Style: a guide to sustainable product ranges

Look out for the Finnish company Nature Line (Hall 9.0, A74) which manufactures cutlery that is 95 per cent biocomposite –a mixture of softwood and ISCC+-certified renewable polypropylene, which is made exclusively from wood, or more precisely from tall oil, a residue from pine trees. This means that the product contributes neither to deforestation nor to the loss of biodiversity. Manufactured in Finland, the cutlery meets all safety and food standards.

Costa Nova

Why is Ambiente such an important date in Costa Nova’s trade fair diary?

“Ambiente is one of the world’s leading trade fairs for both retail and hospitality, and a key moment for Costa Nova to connect with international buyers and partners.

The Costa Nova Industria Group is present with two stands - a Costa Nova stand in Hall 12.1 and a Grestel stand in Hall 12.0 - a presence we have maintained for many years. We strongly believe in the show’s ability to generate meaningful business opportunities, both for the brand and for our private label manufacturing activities.”

Miguel Casal, CEO and owner, Costa Nova Industria Group

table. The home is a safe place, and the table is the centre of the domestic universe.

We anticipate a strong shift towards ‘sensory minimalism’ –porcelain should not only look good but also appeal to the sense of touch through unique textures and reliefs.”

Meanwhile, moving into Hall 3.0 for the first time, Heinen Delfts Blauw say they will be focusing on the art of storytelling while presenting their new tableware collection Majolica, a hand-painted collection of plates and bowls inspired by 17th century pottery with lovely Mediterranean influences.

“Heinen Delfts Blauw is a stock-holding supplier, making us an appealing partner for

Villeroy & Boch

“Our Ambiente trade fair appearance is a crucial platform for us to connect with our B2B partners, showcase our latest innovations, and kicking-off successfully into the new year. Our goal is always to inspire and provide valuable solutions for our professional partners, so we anticipate an equally busy and successful show this year.”

Claudia Knaupp, executive vice president marketing dining and lifestyle and global branding, Villeroy & Boch

buyers that want to make an impact with new collections for spring 2026,” explains Leanne van Doleweerd, sales & project manager. And as they prepare for Ambiente 2026, and the year ahead, Leanne says the brand is feeling positive.

“We expect an increase in revenue and customers in 2026. The focus will be on an omnichannel growth

strategy and the expansion of our retail operations.

“This will contribute to greater brand awareness and a stronger customer experience.”

With Ambiente 2026 now upon us, there lies an opportunity for growth, connection and meaningful conversation about our industry.

See you there!

Don’t miss…

At the table with nature: An immersive exhibition is being created through a collaboration between the Healthy Materials Lab EU and interior designer Silke Remmel, placing full focus on the ingredients that make up building materials – and linking them to human and planetary health.

A richly set table invites visitors to explore the botanical and mineral diversity that nature offers us.

LOCATION: Hall 3.1, B21

Tapping into 2026’s growth potential

With Ambiente taking place this February, Tableware International speaks with exhibitors and industry peers about why the show is such a key date in the diary, and how they perceive the current state of the tabletop industry…

Ariane

Sunil Malesha, managing director, Ariane Fine Porcelain, Hall 11.0, E39

Why is Ambiente such a key date in the tradeshow diary?

Ambiente remains a vital meeting point for the global hospitality and tabletop industry. It allows us to connect directly with decision-makers, understand emerging expectations, and present our collections in context. For Ariane, it is where long-term partnerships begin and where design conversations are grounded in real operational needs.

What is your opinion on the overall state of the tableware industry today?

“Demand remains strong for suppliers who can support hospitality businesses with dependable products and scalable solutions”

The industry is becoming more discerning. Buyers are moving away from short-term trends and focusing on products that offer durability, consistency, and value over time. Inflation and changing market dynamics, particularly in Europe, require manufacturers to be disciplined, transparent, and operationally strong. Those who invest in performance and reliability will continue to stand out.

Do you anticipate a positive year for the industry in 2026?

Yes, cautiously but confidently. Demand remains strong for suppliers who can support hospitality businesses with dependable products and scalable solutions. Ariane is well positioned for growth because durability and service performance are no longer optional; they are essential.

What will your hero collection be at the show?

Our barware launch will be a key highlight, as it reflects how food and beverage presentation are increasingly interconnected. Fjord will also feature prominently, representing our organic design direction.

Costa Verde

Paulo Pinto Santo , marketing director, Porcelanas da Costa Verde AS, Hall 11.0, D68

Why is Ambiente such a key date in the tradeshow diary?

For more than three decades, the Ambiente trade fair has held a central place in Costa Verde’s international strategy. Since the early 1990s, when the company was still in its formative stages, Ambiente established itself as the brand’s main global showcase, playing a decisive role in shaping its creative, industrial, and commercial calendar. It is on this international stage that Costa Verde presents, edition after edition, the results of continuous work in product development, technological innovation, and close market engagement.

This consistent presence over more than 30 years reflects a clear ambition: to be better with each participation than the previous one. In 2026, this ambition takes shape in a new 100 m² stand, located in Hall 11.0, designed to reinforce the brand’s contemporary identity and industrial capabilities. This investment represents not only a commitment to Costa Verde’s visibility, but also strong confidence in Ambiente’s strategic role as a key meeting point for brands, buyers, specifiers, and decision-makers.

“The outlook for 2026 is decidedly optimistic. Despite global uncertainties, markets show a clear need for recovery, renewal, and change”

What is your opinion on the overall state of the tableware industry today?

The tableware sector is currently experiencing a period of contrasts. On the one hand, there is positive momentum in the hospitality segment, driven by the growth of tourism across several geographies, including Portugal, Europe, and other strategic markets. On the other hand, the macroeconomic environment and international instability calls for caution and adaptability, particularly in terms of supply chain management and cost control. The industry has responded to this context through innovation, process flexibility and increased attention to emerging consumption patterns and product usage trends. At Costa Verde, the hospitality and foodservice channels remain a priority and a structural pillar of the business. A presence in more than 50 countries confirms a solid international positioning, supported by continuous investment in technology, design and production reliability. At the same time, retail continues to play a strategic role through partnerships with leading brands and operators, while the B2C channel has been growing steadily, driven by digitalization and new consumer habits.

Do you anticipate a positive year for the industry in 2026?

The outlook for 2026 is decidedly optimistic. Despite global uncertainties, markets show a clear need for recovery, renewal, and change. The launch of new collections, the ability to reach new audiences and the anticipation of emerging trends are expected to contribute to a year of growth and consolidation for the sector.

Did you know?

Costa Verde will showcase a new 100 m² stand, located in Hall 11.0, designed to reinforce the brand’s contemporary identity and industrial capabilities.

Orrefors

Remco Snoeck, export sales manager, Orrefors Kosta Boda, Hall 3.1, G10 – G18

Why is Ambiente such a key date in the tradeshow diary? Ambiente is the most influential international platform for tableware and design, bringing together global buyers, designers, and trendsetters. For Orrefors and Kosta Boda, it’s an opportunity to showcase Scandinavian craftsmanship to a worldwide audience and strengthen relationships with partners across the global market.

What is your opinion on the overall state of the tableware industry today – what are the positives and what do we need to take heed of?

Even though times are challenging, the industry is experiencing a strong focus on sustainability and timeless design, which aligns well with our heritage and our vision. The principles of Scandinavian design: innovation, functionality, timeless aesthetics and sustainable quality. Consumers value our quality and longevity more than ever, but we must remain aware that retailers have to stay interesting with their assortment to compete against the growing digital purchasing behaviours.

Do you anticipate a positive year for the industry in 2026?

Yes, we expect steady growth driven by premiumisation and the continued demand for authentic, well-crafted products. The hospitality and retail sectors are recovering, and design-led brands like us have a unique opportunity to capitalise on this momentum.

PAMPA BAY

Carlos Barbagallo, CEO, Pampa Bay, Hall 12.1, C44

Why is Ambiente such a key date in the tradeshow diary?

Ambiente is very important to us, as we’ve found that our product, quality, and designs resonate across so many different markets. Our international business has become one of our strongest areas of growth, and Ambiente plays a key role in that success. The show offers a unique environment where we can meet with our partners, exchange perspectives, and immerse ourselves in new trends shaping the industry. These interactions fuel our creativity and guide the ideas we develop for future collections, ensuring we continue to bring thoughtful, relevant design to markets worldwide.

What is your opinion on the overall state of the tableware industry today – what are the positives and what do we need to take heed of?

“We can’t predict every twist the year may bring, but we’re approaching 2026 with confidence”

brands like ours, as our designs resonate across many cultures and regions. International growth remains one of the most promising areas of opportunity, and global trade shows continue to play a vital role in shaping trends and fostering collaboration.

The tableware industry today is in a dynamic and exciting place. On the positive side, consumers are more engaged than ever with how they dine and entertain. There’s a growing appreciation for thoughtful design, quality materials, and pieces that elevate everyday moments — all areas where the industry continues to innovate. We’re also seeing strong interest in versatile serveware that adapts to different lifestyles, from casual dining to elevated hosting, which has opened the door for fresh creativity and new formats.

At the same time, the global market has become increasingly interconnected. This has been a tremendous advantage for

WMF Professional

Fabian Bröning, head of sales, WMF Professional

Why is Ambiente such a key date in the tradeshow diary?

Ambiente is the leading international platform for tableware, dining, and hospitality concepts. It brings together decisionmakers, trendsetters, and innovators from all over the world. For us, it’s the perfect opportunity to showcase our latest collections, exchange ideas with partners, and set impulses for the future of table culture. The event’s global reach and strong focus on design and

innovation make it an unmissable date in our calendar.

What is your opinion on the overall state of the tableware industry today – what are the positives and what do we need to take heed of?

The industry is experiencing a dynamic shift. On the positive side, we see strong demand for individuality, sustainability, and high-quality design. Hospitality and retail customers are looking for solutions that combine aesthetics with functionality and durability. At the same time, we need to pay attention to cost pressures and supply chain challenges.

However, there are also areas that require attention. Shifts in international trade relations can create uncertainty, and companies need to remain agile and diversified to navigate these fluctuations. One way we’ve addressed these fluctuations is by ensuring customers can order and receive products from the most convenient global locations. With shipping options available from North America, Asia, and Europe, we aim to make the ordering and delivery process as seamless as possible.

Consumer expectations are also evolving quickly — people want beauty, functionality, and value, all at once — which means brands must continue investing in innovation, development, and inventory planning to stay ahead. Customers are more conscious of what they bring into their homes, and the industry must continue to respond with thoughtful materials, durable designs, and long lasting quality.

Overall, the industry is full of opportunity, but success depends on staying adaptable, design forward, and deeply connected to the needs of a global customer.

“The appetite for premium experiences and personalised concepts continues to grow, both in hospitality and retail”

Flexibility and innovation will remain key to meeting these evolving requirements.

Do you anticipate a positive year for the industry in 2026?

Yes, we are optimistic. The appetite for premium experiences and personalised concepts continues to grow, both in hospitality and retail. With our new collections and design-driven solutions, we are well positioned to support this trend. We expect 2026 to be a year of creative collaborations and strong international projects.

https://www.narumi.co.jp/en/home/ https://www.instagram.com/narumi_pro/

Vista Alegre returns to Messe Frankfurt with exciting new collections for 2026

Vista Alegre will once again take part in Ambiente, from 6 to 10 February, where it will present its new collections for 2026 at Hall 12.1, Stand C02. The brand unveils a refined and diverse portfolio spanning crystal and glass, porcelain and cutlery, reaffirming its commitment to excellence, craftsmanship and contemporary design.

Crystal and glass

Inspired by the glamorous atmosphere of 1930s and 1940s Hollywood classics such as Casablanca, where the bar played a central role alongside furniture and costume design, Avenue draws on the mystery and elegance of Art Deco aesthetics. The collection is now extended with new pieces that showcase its signature decoration: a water goblet, a wine goblet, a flute, a wine decanter and a porcelain base that completes the ensemble’s refined character.

Modern, versatile and defined by an elegant functional simplicity, the new Breeze tableware, barware and accessory collection is suited to relaxed environments, intimate moments or more formal occasions. Its geometric profile and subtle decorative diagonal cuts reveal the brilliance and sophistication of pure crystal. A refreshing breeze brought to both table and bar.

The Sirs of the Sea bar collection comprises a small crystal bottle with a classically cut stopper and a star-cut tumbler. It pays tribute to the “lone wolves” and to the magnificent real and mythical sea creatures that inhabit the oceans, illustrated on the bottle’s surface. With a vintage profile, the collection evokes the adventurous spirit of literary classics by Jules Verne, Herman Melville and Jack London.

When lit, the new Halo lamp casts a soft, enveloping glow, thanks to light gently filtered through satin-finished crystal, creating harmony in any space. Combining noble materials, organic design, handcrafted black biscuit porcelain and expertly cut frosted crystal, Halo transcends its functional role to become a true piece of contemporary art.

orrefors .com

Parterre

HERANÇA CLEAR

Herança Clear revisits the core values of the painted Herança collection — the hallmark of master artisans, ancestral know-how and Vista Alegre’s invaluable handmade legacy — and reinterprets them in superior-purity crystal with a more sober, classical and subtle expression. Hand-blown and hand-cut, the collection features details of remarkable richness and artistic complexity that elevate the nobility of the material.

PARTERRE

A low crystal vase with a softly undulating inner surface that captures and refracts light, Parterre creates small yet intense reflections that enrich interior décor. Highly versatile, it can be combined in multiple arrangements to form linear or square patterns, ideal for long tables or sideboards, creating a dynamic and striking visual effect.

Porcelain

MAKURA

The Makura trays combine the serene precision of porcelain with the soft warmth of leather. Each tray has its own profile and character, and the contrast between them gives the pieces a balanced presence. Designed as an elegant and secure refuge for everyday objects, Makura takes its name from the Japanese word for “pillow”, a discreet reference to the softness of the leather centre. Produced in two geometric shapes and two sizes, Makura balances functionality with understated and subtle beauty, where two very different materials interact in perfect harmony.

Cutlery

PRISM D’OR

VIDA ALEGRE

Life is joyful because it is so complete and diverse — rich in animals that amaze us, flowers and fruits of countless colours, sun, rain and snow, sea and sand, valleys and mountains, and people full of precious emotions.

Vida Alegre is a contemporary collection of 36 illustrated tiles by Martin Jarrie, as colourful and imaginative as the world itself, allowing each of us to tell our own special story, letter by letter, number by number.

The exclusive design of the Prism cutlery collection, with its diamond motifs and timeless lines, is inspired by the iconic Bicos collection, merging craftsmanship and technology in sophisticated finishes of tempered 18/10 stainless steel. The new Prism d’Or collection enhances Prism’s geometric beauty and complex texture with high-gloss gold finishes, offering superior refinement and an unmistakable sensory appeal — a distinguished addition to any table.

Interview Costa Nova

As one of the most globally recognised tableware providers, Costa Nova has long been associated with quality stoneware collections, something the brand has carefully cultivated over many years. In 1998, Grestel – the group’s flagship factory, was founded and

each year and continually surprising the market with distinctive, innovative products.”

“Each new Costa Nova collection is the result of a year of careful planning and close collaboration”

from that the Costa Nova Industria Group has grown to curate an image of quality, innovative tableware collections. This year, things are no different – in fact, Costa Nova has gone even further.

Sitting alongside their four new stoneware collections, the brand

The launch of a new cutlery catalogue marks a first for Costa Nova. “It reflects our continued desire to dress the table and provide everything that goes in it,” explains Liliana. “The catalogue features thirteen collections, including three exciting new ranges: Ramo, designed by Carsten Gollnick, which is inspired in the elegance of nature with forms reminiscent of branches, twigs, and floral structures. Sen, also by

The table takeover

With a new cutlery catalogue sitting alongside fresh stoneware collections, linens and glassware – Costa Nova are delivering on all fronts. Liliana Padinha, head of marketing, talks to Tableware International

has produced a dedicated cutlery catalogue featuring thirteen collections, three of which are entirely new, while others introduce fresh colours and finishes.

Not only that, Costa Nova has added fresh items to current collections, as well as introducing table linen lines and glassware to complete the offering.

“Each new Costa Nova collection is the result of a year of careful planning and close collaboration between our in-house design team and, when applicable, external partners,” explains Liliana Padinha, head of marketing, Costa Nova Industria Group.

“As experts in stoneware manufacturing, the development process is necessarily complex, yet it is strengthened by this deep expertise. We strive to stay ahead of trends in decoration, design, and manufacturing techniques, applying these innovations to our collections

Gollnick, featuring bold, modern lines with an architectural and geometric feel, combining design with everyday practicality; and Douro which draws inspiration from Portugal’s iconic wine region, translating the landscape’s terraces and textures into refined cutlery.

“Two collections return with new finishes and colours, offering fresh ways to elevate any table. Mito now comes in Cloud Grey and Mint, broadening the collection’s versatility, while Nau unveils Antique Black and Antique Brown finishes, enhancing its characterful, solid appeal and expanding options for diverse table settings.

“It’s important to us that, beyond aesthetics, each piece feels good while handled. All is thought of and produced with comfort and practicality in mind, as well as durability and sustainability.”

The head of marketing says cutlery presents itself as a

“natural extension of Costa Nova’s commitment to creating complete, harmonious table settings. As experts in tableware manufacturing, supported by an in-house design team, we have naturally expanded our offer to include glassware, table linens, and cutlery.”

Liliana continues: “Portugal has a strong tradition and industry in both textiles and cutlery, and as we prioritise Made in Portugal, we partner with the country’s best manufacturers to bring our vision to life. Our goal is for Costa Nova’s unique character to be perceived not only in our stoneware collections, but also in our cutlery and other table offers.”

Of course, Costa Nova’s reputation for excellence precedes itself so the brand’s stand at Ambiente (Hall 12.1, C21) is always bustling with activity. This year will be no different as the group presents several exciting new stoneware collections to sit alongside cutlery, linens and glassware.

For 2026, look out for the Vila collection which has been inspired by 19th-century Portuguese floral ceramics, the collection brings

heritage and charm to the table in five colours including white. Another collection, Rafaela adds a surprise element to the Costa Nova

happening at Costa Nova, it is hard not to be impressed by the brand’s desire to continue delivering excellence, and their commitment

“As experts in tableware manufacturing, supported by an inhouse design team, we have naturally expanded our offer to include glassware, table linens, and cutlery.”

catalogue: a vibrant, characterful collection available in four bold colours, distinguished by handapplied splashes of colour.

Continuing their strategic focus on their environmentally friendly ecogres collections, Costa Nova has also expanded Scotia with new dinnerware pieces, combining sustainability and modern craftsmanship in eco-friendly yellow ecogres.

Finally, Silvina, in terracotta and white, draws inspiration from 16th-century naturalistic patterns, offering a timeless expression of traditional ceramics.

With so much innovation

to cutlery is merely an example of this. Visit them at Ambiente (Hall 12.1, C21) to learn more.

Sustainable manufacturing

Realising the importance of producing ceramics more sustainably, Costa Nova has invested significantly in its manufacturing processes. In fact, Costa Nova’s commitment to sustainable practices is admirable. The company made a €16million investment in its Ecogres – Cerâmica Ecológica factory, which is dedicated to sustainable stoneware production.

“Innovation and sustainability have always been part of our DNA at Costa Nova Industria Group,” Miguel Casal, CEO and owner, Costa Nova Industria Group told Tableware International in a recent interview. “From day one, back in 1998, when we founded Grestel, the group’s flagship factory, we felt a strong responsibility to do more - to create more innovative products, rethink how we produce them, and set new standards for sustainable manufacturing in our industry. More than a brand or a product, Ecogres is a concept, a factory, and a philosophy. Grestel has always been deeply committed to sustainability, both industrially and socially. The Ecogres factory is the ultimate example of best practices in sustainable ceramic manufacturing, one of the most advanced industrial facilities in the world in terms of energy efficiency.”

Where can you find Costa Nova at Ambiente?

You can find Costa Nova in Hall 12.1, C21. “We look forward to welcoming visitors and sharing the beauty and craftsmanship of our Portuguese tableware,” says Liliana.

Visit Bonna at Ambiente to see a world-first technology in the tableware sector – FUSIONtech, which Bonna has successfully applied to its porcelain products. This technology allows matte and glossy surfaces to coexist in a threedimensional appearance, with strong colour contrasts and high durability.

Bonna has rapidly expanded the number of products manufactured using this technology. Its first FUSIONtech collections were Aquelis and Kymen, and they have since added two more collections: Retro Floral and Granix.

Amefa Hall 8, E29 www.amefa.com

Amefa, a trusted name in table and kitchenware since 1931, is excited to present its latest collections at Ambiente 2026. Known for combining timeless craftsmanship with contemporary design, Amefa continues to inspire dining experiences worldwide.

This year’s preview showcases a curated selection of innovative and stylish pieces designed to elevate both everyday meals and special occasions. Expect elegant tapas cutlery designed for stylish sharing, beautifully crafted stoneware pieces that bring warmth and authenticity to the table, and bold, contemporary knives that combine precision with striking design.

Highlights include:

Juntos – a refined tapas cutlery collection designed for stylish sharing and social dining.

Braise – artisanal stoneware that brings warmth, texture, and authenticity to any table setting.

Forme In-Drawer Block – a sleek, space-saving knife storage solution that combines modern design with practical functionality for an organized kitchen.

Visit Amefa at Ambiente 2026 to experience the full range and discover how they can elevate your table setting.

Kosta Boda

Visit Kosta Boda at Ambiente to see the brand’s unique range of desirable pieces from Orion, a series of votives created by designer Clara von Zweigbergk to Tears of Joy by Åsa Jungnelius, you’ll find Kosta Boda has something from everyone.

With Orion for example, its design is an interplay of proportions and shapes, using lines and colors to highlight the ever-fascinating nature of glass. As the name suggests, the votives are made to be even bolder together – maybe a whole constellation? Orion is available in three colorways: grey, pink and clear glass.

Next Tears of Joy by Åsa Jungnelius for Kosta Boda – a decorative entity, whether you see it as a sculptural plate, enigmatic shape or shiny tear – it heightens and complements the setting, wherever you place it. Tears of Joy has been launched in several executions, most recently silver and gold in borosilicate glass. A new feature is that one side doubles as a subtle mirror, adding functionality and versatility to the aesthetic appeal. Now, retailed as a 2-pack with one small and one large piece. That’s merely a snapshot of what Kosta Boda has to offer, so do pay them a visit.

Hall 12.1, C23

Arc will be showcasing its collections at Ambiente 2026. The group will celebrate its bicentenary at the trade event. Visit their stand in Hall 12.2 and be the first to discover the latest collections from brands such as Luminarc, Arcoroc, Chef & Sommelier, and Cristal d’Arques Paris. Arc’s Chef & Sommelier brand recently launched an EXTRA-THIN collection, high-quality stemware that is lighter and thinner to meet evolving customer expectations. Arc says the glasses are on average 40 per cent thinner – see them at Ambiente.

Narumi

Narumi will be at Ambiente in Hall 12.2 with their new Serenity collection.

The new collection has inspired by traditional East Asian ceramics. Serenity has been influenced by ceramics considered art objects and furnishings – modern design with an antiquated touch. Narumi’s use of classic blue and white colourways creates a gentle visual rhythm.

Floral motifs are rendered in a contemporary style, allowing the past and the present to exist side by side.

“The design recalls familiar, unchanging moments — leaf shadows against the sky, light filtering through branches, and leaves moving softly in the wind — creating a calm, balanced atmosphere at the table,” Narumi says.

Porcel Hall 12.1, B67 www.porcel.com

This year, Porcel S.A. will present two new collections at Ambiente.

Inspired by the harmony of spirals, Flare captures the subtle movement of light as it expands and dissolves, revealing compositions of delicate golden lines over soft beige tones. The contrast between light and dark tones adds depth and rhythm, evoking the perfect balance between energy and serenity.

The metallic golden lines that flow across the surface are complemented by hand-painted gold rim detailing. The shape of each piece reinforces the collection’s classic and refined character, resulting in porcelain where brilliance and luxury are expressed through subtlety.

Also on display will be one of Porcel’s most recent collections. Ruby was designed to shine at the table, transforming every moment into a celebration of refinement. The geometry of its design, combining gold and deep burgundy on fine porcelain, creates unique reflections, evoking the faceted brilliance of a cut gemstone.

Discover these and other Porcel collections, along with a portfolio of innovative techniques, in Hall 12.1, Stand B67, from February 6–10.

From Ocean Blues to artistic hues: Dunoon’s 2026 Collection

Hall 12.1, D31

www.dunoon.co.uk

Dunoon unveil a captivating new range for 2026, continuing its tradition of crafting exquisite fine bone china in Staffordshire. Showcasing artistry, colour and craftsmanship, the latest collection introduces stunning designs across Dunoon’s much-loved mug shapes.

Blue Ocean

Inspired by the wonders found beneath the waves, the new design Blue Ocean brings a serene yet captivating aesthetic to the Lomond shape. Detailed illustrations of sea turtles, seahorses, crabs and starfish drift across cool tonal blues, creating a refreshing marine habitat. Elegantly composed and richly detailed, Blue Ocean is a celebration of underwater beauty and the tranquillity of the ocean world.

Espiritu

Vibrant, ornate and full of character, Espiritu bursts with life on the Cairngorm shape. Elaborate Calavera skull motifs are surrounded by bold florals in vivid reds, blues and golds, creating a design that feels joyful, expressive and steeped in festive artistry. Espiritu’s intricate patterning and eye-catching palette make it a standout statement piece within the new collection.

Lots of Love

Following the success of the beloved Lots of Love design, Dunoon has extended it to the Skye shape, bringing its uplifting hearts to a whole new canvas. Lots of Love is decorated with a flurry of handpainted hearts in soft, blended hues that wrap gently around the mug, creating a design that is uplifting, modern and full of movement. Its playful design and spectrum of colour make it an ideal gift or everyday favourite. These are just a few highlights from Dunoon’s extensive new 2026 range.

Costa Nova introduces new cutlery catalogue

Hall 12.1, C21

www.costanova.com

Costa Nova welcomes 2026 with some of its most anticipated launches, like the new Cutlery Catalog, that brings together thirteen collections, including three exclusive new ranges. Ramo and Sen, designed by Carsten Gollnick, and Douro, inspired in one of Portugal’s most iconic landscapes, paying tribute to the renowned wine region.

This spirit extends across Costa Nova’s wider portfolio with new stoneware collections: Vila, a reinterpretation of 19th-century Portuguese floral ceramics with timeless charm; Rafaela, bringing bold color and energy to the table; Scotia, combining eco-conscious materials with modern hospitality needs; and Silvina, echoing 16thcentury naturalistic patterns with remarkable adaptability. These

launches define Costa Nova’s outlook for 2026. Discover the new cutlery catalog and other Costa Nova novelties at Ambiente 2026.

Meet Crystalex’s hero collections

Pure Line and Bloomé…

Hall 12.1, D05

www.crystalex.cz

Firmly shaped optics inspired by a flower – Blommé is a minimalist collection designed for serving mixed drinks, ice cream, or delicate desserts. The colour palette is subtle: transparent, light, and tender. Blommé is a tribute to nature, its elegance, and simplicity. Bloomé is a breath of spring – an invitation to feel, reflect, and discover the subtle poetry of form.

Meanwhile, at the heart of the Pure Line collection glass stands verticality – a focused energy flowing from top to bottom in precisely engraved lines. Each piece is an essence of minimalism, light, and motion. Pure Line was born as a response to the need for calm in today’s visually saturated world. Each object becomes a meditation – a pure form, a clear intention.

“Pure Line speaks in clean vertical cuts; a meditation on precision, clarity, and silence. Bloomé blossoms with organic textures and gentle curves – capturing nature’s quiet emotion in glass,” head of marketing Michaela Šlegr explains.

Where understated sophistication, meets cosmopolitan flair to create timeless products, which suit any table

Elia. Serving Professionals.

Please visit Elia at the Ambiente Trade Fair from 6th – 10th February 2026, at Messe Frankfurt. Hall 12.1, Stand D55

Villeroy & Boch takes charge

Claudia Knaupp , executive vice president marketing dining & lifestyle and global branding at Villeroy & Boch discusses the company’s carefully considered approach to both brick-and-mortar and online retail, and hospitality, with each sales avenue demanding a specific and curated strategy. Not forgetting their role as a key trend setter...

“Our strategy involves a strong, balanced commitment for the retail and hospitality sectors. We see significant potential in both areas…”

Claudia, Villeroy & Boch has held its own this year – how have you found market conditions in the tabletop sector over all? Indeed, the market conditions in the tabletop sector this year have presented their challenges, much like many other industries. We’ve observed a continued shift in consumer behaviour, with a heightened focus on quality, durability, and versatility in tableware as well as on gifts. There’s a clear trend towards products that offer both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality for everyday use and special occasions. This is where Villeroy & Boch could really play on its strengths this year: focusing on timeless design, premium quality, innovative tableware and thoughtful gift concepts, alongside keeping excellent relationships with our partners have allowed us to maintain our strong position.

Fact finder

Villeroy & Boch experienced strong growth with stationary retail partners – more than 11 per cent in the first nine months of the year – which is really encouraging for the industry as a whole to hear. What do you attribute this to?

This growth with our stationary retail partners is driven by several factors. Firstly, it underscores the enduring value consumers place on tangible shopping experiences and the appeal of our products when experienced firsthand. Secondly, it’s a direct result of our robust and collaborative partnerships with retailers. We’ve invested in supporting them through compelling marketing campaigns and attractive new collections. Especially our new Fleur collection was a true highlight for our partners and for us in 2025. Lastly, it also reflects a successful

Villeroy & Boch was founded in 1748 and is headquartered in Mettlach, Germany.

Interview Villeroy & Boch

synergy between our online presence and brick-and-mortar sales, as consumers often research online and purchase offline.

Interestingly, the brand also enjoyed nearly nine per cent growth in the upscale hotel and restaurant space, how did Villeroy & Boch facilitate this growth over time?

Our growth in the premium and luxury hotel and restaurant sector is a strategic success built over many years. It’s rooted in our deep understanding of the unique demands of the hospitality industry. We don’t just supply tableware; we offer comprehensive, bespoke solutions that combine exceptional design, outstanding durability, and tailored functionality. Our dedicated hospitality team works closely with leading hotels, restaurants, and cruise lines globally, understanding

and hospitality sectors. We see significant potential in both areas and leverage the synergies between them. The brand’s strength built through our retail presence benefits our hospitality reputation, and viceversa. Many trends that we see with consumers start in the hospitality sector so having a strong basis there, is enabling our success in the retail market.

Now onto the actual product, we really loved Fleur last year, it was a joyous collection – how did it perform for you?

The Fleur collection was indeed designed to bring joy and freshness to the dining experience, and we are delighted to hear that it evokes these feelings in people. Fleur performed exceptionally well. It resonated strongly with consumers, exceeding our expectations, making it the most successful

“For the upcoming year, we’ve identified three key trends that influence our new collections”

their specific needs and helping them create unforgettable dining experiences for their guests.

The strength of our brand, our commitment to innovation in materials and design, and our ability to deliver customisation options have been key to fostering and expanding these valuable long-term partnerships.

Talk to us about Villeroy & Boch’s focus for the foreseeable – will it veer more towards retail or hospitality?

Our strategy involves a strong, balanced commitment for the retail

Looking towards the new season, has the company considered any particular trends or identified any specific needs which you will be targeting with your new collections?

As a trend-setter in the industry, we continuously monitor global shifts in lifestyle, design, and consumer preferences. For the upcoming year, we’ve identified three key trends that influence our new collections. As the outside world is moving faster than ever, a connection to nature continues to be paramount – not just in terms of materials, but also in design aesthetics that evoke

organic shapes. Furthermore, there is a growing appreciation for warm hues and harmonious contrasts to create living areas that give space for creativity, fun and friendly moments of connection with family or friends. Finally, we are seeing a desire for tablescapes that reflect individual styles, offer mix and match opportunities and make real statements. Our new collections are meticulously designed to address these needs, offering solutions that are not only beautiful but also versatile.

What can you tell us about new collections this year?

launch in the company´s history. New buyers were successfully attracted by the collection, while our loyal base was delighted, proving that a winning formula is timeless design combined with contemporary appeal. At the same time, last year´s novelty Afina continued its success in the market making it a strong pillar of our business.

Our new collections this year represent a thoughtful evolution of the Villeroy & Boch aesthetics, deeply rooted in the trends I just mentioned. While I can’t reveal all the specifics just yet, I can hint that you will see a beautiful fusion of timeless elegance with modern trends. We will be presenting the new tableware and gift collections for the first time at Ambiente in early February.

Heinen Delfts Blauw Hall 3.0, B 29

www.heinendelftsblauw.com

This year will be Heinen Delfts Blauw first year in Hall 3.0 at Ambiente. The brand’s main focus will be on storytelling collections. They will highlight their unique Delft blue designs that carry a special story with them and which they would like to share with the world. They will present their new tableware collection Majolica, a hand-painted collection of plates and bowls inspired by 17th century pottery with Mediterranean influences. This pottery style arrived in the Netherlands where it influenced Delft

Qualia is the culmination of over 60 years of glass making art and a harmonious fusion of American design influences, European technical expertise, and Asian efficiency and artisanship. This unique blend has given rise to a new era in glassmaking that embraces a global perspective. Qualia channel their collective talents towards innovative design, state-of-the-art handcrafted production techniques, and an unrivaled balance of quality and value in the industry. At Qualia, the experienced product development team is committed to working closely with you to transform your ideas into an exceptional assortment of glassware. They value collaboration and strive to bring your vision to life, crafting bespoke pieces that capture the essence of your imagination. With Qualia, you can expect unparalleled craftsmanship, timeless design, and a commitment to delivering glassware that surpasses your expectations.

pottery factories and helped develop their own personal style: Delft Majolica. The shapes of the plates and bowls, the studs and the waves, are based on old Dutch pottery from that time. The result is a breezy, light and cheerful tableware collection which makes you long for the summer. Another focus point will be the Wildbloemen (Wildflowers) collection. This colorful collection highlights the beauty and importance of native wildflowers, combined with traditional Delft blue decorations.

Elia International

Elia International Ltd is delighted to announce the launch of its latest cutlery design, Cellene. This new collection will be showcased on the Elia stand at Ambiente in Hall 12.1, stand D55.

Renowned for its extensive collection of high-quality 18/10 cutlery, Cellene is a welcome addition to the Elia range, featuring a unique and stylish textured finish.

Defined by sleek curves and a distinctive pattern, Cellene is the ideal choice for modern table settings. Crafted from premium 18/10 stainless steel, the collection features a textured, debossed handle design, that is both visually striking and well balanced, offering a tactile experience that sits comfortably in the hand. Cellene comprises a full range of eight pieces, with the addition of coffee spoons.

Fine Dining & Living

At Fine Dining & Living, tableware starts with a simple belief: the plate is part of the story. It frames the dish, supports the chef’s vision, and quietly shapes the overall dining experience. Across brands such as BonBistro, Fine2Dine (F2D) and CHIC Tableware, they design collections that feel intuitive in use, strong in character, and relevant for today’s hospitality professionals.

This season, they are proud to introduce several new collections that reflect different styles, needs, and philosophies, yet all share the same focus on thoughtful design.

Elva by BonBistro is made for the modern bistro. Soft, organic shapes meet a clean, contemporary look, resulting in a collection that feels warm, approachable, and practical. Elva is designed to work hard in everyday service while still giving chefs the freedom to present dishes with personality.

With Icon by EcoMade, sustainability becomes a natural part of the table. Produced from recycled materials, Icon combines responsible production with a timeless design language. The result is a collection that fits effortlessly into both casual and more refined concepts; proof that conscious choices and strong aesthetics can go hand in hand.

For chefs who see presentation as an extension of their craft, Seance by Fine2Dine offers a more expressive canvas. Subtle textures, refined shapes, and a handcrafted feel bring depth and atmosphere to the table. Seance is designed to enhance the plate without overpowering it—allowing the food to speak, supported by characterful tableware.

Contour by CHIC completes the lineup with a distinctly elegant presence. Defined by sculptural lines and refined proportions, Contour is created for upscale dining environments where detail matters. Its clean silhouettes frame dishes beautifully and add a sense of quiet sophistication to the table. You can discover these hospitality collections at the stand in Hall 11.0, D90.

In addition, the company’s retail brands will be showcased in Hall 3.0, stand D58.

Denby

Denby (on the Briscapo stand) Hall 8, K98 www.denbypottery.com

“Denby is delighted be showcasing its new products including ‘Grain’, the new Denby tableware design for 2026, at Ambiente on the stand of Denby’s official European Distributor, Briscapo, in Hall 8, Stand K98. Denby has been producing ‘made to last’ hand-crafted ceramics in the heart of England since 1809. Renowned for its beautiful glazes and made to Denby’s Award Winning sustainability and environmental ethos, each piece is crafted by 20 pairs of hands using local clay.

Alongside Denby at Ambiente, Swedish based Briscapo will be showing cast iron cookware by Carl Victor of Sweden also known for its craftsmanship rooted in traditional manufacturing processes and for those seeking reliable products for both culinary professionals and home cooks.

Jason Maughan, Denby’s head of sales, will be on the Briscapo Stand at Ambiente from Friday, 6th February up until mid-day on Monday, 9th February and would be happy to give an update on Denby’s new products and news .”

Hall 12.0, B40 www.porcelana.com.pl

At Ambiente 2026, Porcelain Ćmielów will present its new Jenny Solaris collection. They will showcase porcelain that combines emotion with technological precision, focusing on natural colours and white. This is the brand’s response to the need for harmony and grounding in the digital world. There will also be classic gilding on products from the Ćmielów and Chodzież brands.

Over 30 years, Serax has helped create unforgettable moments in people’s homes and in the best restaurants and hotels around the world. As a leading design brand, Serax offers a comprehensive portfolio of unique tableware, pottery, interior accessories, furniture and lighting, in collaboration with both upcoming and established designers. Serax’ products are manufactured exclusively by skilled craftsmen and sold worldwide to fine stores, restaurants and hotels, to discover, experience and enjoy. Find them at Ambiente in Hall 3.1, G66.

Rosenthal Hall 12.1, C01

www.rosenthal.de

Rosenthal’s Year of Gifting will be reflected across a broad range of collections including the new Home collection, as well as gifting-focused pieces such as Glass Objects by Michela Cattai, the Midi Vases in colour, and the Mug+. At the same time, iconic collections like Sanssouci will also play an important role, with special anniversary sets being introduced to mark its 100th anniversary. Together, these collections demonstrate the breadth of Rosenthal’s offering and show how the theme of gifting can be interpreted in many different ways.

The new Home collection, featuring objects such as vases, vide poches and decorative pieces will broaden Rosenthal’s design universe. At the same time, they remain firmly committed to their core expertise in tableware, with highlights including collections such as Sonetto and the celebration of anniversaries of iconic lines. These include milestones within Rosenthal meets Versace and the 30th anniversary of Le Jardin, as well as an expansion of the Idyllia collection created with Swarovski. Together, these elements underline Rosenthal’s ability to evolve, introduce new ideas and categories, while staying true to its design heritage.

LSA’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection introduces new pieces inspired by the ever-evolving world around us, mirroring the stories driven by both the natural world and the people that inhabit it. The natural rhythm and flow of a life lived — from small moments to joyful occasions.

Sea Glass connects us with the natural world, offering unique drinkware and decorative pieces inspired by the colourful sea glass found scattered on beaches. Mouth-blown with colours form nature, each piece is a reminder of the interplay between craft, materials and cyclical patterns from nature. Moderne takes inspiration from the Vienna Moderne cultural movement, where creative minds were celebrated and design and architecture were given space to flourish and move in a new direction.

New additions to Collective utilise materials from nature, with handmade pieces in ash wood and glass. The additions provide pieces for informal occasions, bringing warmth and tactility to familiar moments shared with others.

When Bonna was founded in 2014 by its parent company Kar Porcelain, Erbil Aşkan was charged with leading the fledging brand. By focusing their energies entirely on the hospitality sector, Erbil and his team captured the zeitgeist and positioned themselves as a leader in the sector…

“The founding of Bonna marked a turning point for me”

Erbil, thank you for speaking with Tableware International.

Bonna is a leading brand name in hospitality – how have you found market conditions recently?

Market conditions have become increasingly challenging in recent years, driven by intense price competition, frequently changing customs duties, and ongoing geopolitical risks that directly affect trade flows and costs. In this environment, our priority has been to remain agile and resilient— closely monitoring regulatory changes, optimising our cost structure, and adjusting our go-tomarket strategies quickly to protect our competitiveness. By staying flexible and proactive, we aim not only to manage these uncertainties but also to continue supporting

our hospitality partners with reliable supply and consistent quality despite the volatility.

What are the key factors affecting performance – both positive and negative?

The key factors affecting our performance are shaped by

respond quickly to customer needs and shifting dynamics. On the negative side, increasing pressure on cost control—driven by raw materials, logistics, and operational expenses—continues to challenge margins and requires constant efficiency improvements to maintain sustainable performance.

“Challenges are a natural part of the journey; what truly matters is the resilience to... grow through every experience”

a balance of strengths and constraints. On the positive side, speed, innovation, and our strong ability to adapt to changing market conditions enable us to

With so much competition in the field, where does Bonna position itself?

Now, as you said, we are one of the leading brands in the

Did you know?

hospitality and tableware sector. Our aim is being a global leader in the food and beverage industry with happy stakeholders. To achieve this goal, we are expanding our production capacity, product range, and human resources. We are investing in innovation and new technologies.

Is it important to Bonna to maintain market dominance?

Of course, as a Türkiye-based company, we believe in quality and craftsmanship. Our unique designs and tableware solutions attract professionals from around the world. We aim to share this quality and dedication with everyone. We uphold strong ethical standards

Bonna recently unveiled special presentation equipment named Clair

Created in collaboration with world-renowned pastry chef Antonio Bachour, Clair was designed to elevate the luxury hotel experience by offering guests an elegant and unforgettable welcome. Designed as a presentation stand, Clair reflects the harmony of artistry and functionality, standing out as both a statement piece and a versatile hospitality solution.

Meticulously crafted with Bonna’s premium porcelain, this series embodies chef Bachour’s “picked from the branch” concept — combining delicate leaf motifs with refined simplicity. Its nature-inspired plate forms and imaginative details go beyond expectations, bringing visual harmony and practical usability to every hotel setting.

and always strive to maintain our market leadership in line with these values.

You spend a lot of time working with chefs in your product development, why is that important to Bonna? We believe that gastronomy is a powerful connection between culture and people. We believe in creativity and for Bonna, gastronomy is an art. For centuries, art has nourished the human soul.

You personally have helmed Bonna on an upward trajectory, can you tell us what you think the secret to your success has been?

Introducing FUSIONtech

Bonna recently introduced FUSIONtech – an innovation which combines three advanced technologies to bring a completely new dimension to porcelain industry.

“By staying flexible and proactive, we aim not only to manage these uncertainties but also to continue supporting our hospitality partners”

From this perspective, chefs are far more than cooks, they are true creators. Chefs are unique individuals who nourish our souls, our eyes, and our senses. They are cultural builders who know how to create meaningful connections between different cultures. So, working with chefs means supporting this cultural bridge and becoming a part of it.

Our collaborations with chefs allow us to connect with people who take pleasure in food, art, and discovery. As Bonna, we aim to support chefs and share this social and cultural side of our brand with the world.

First, I would like to briefly talk about our company’s background. Bonna is actually a very young brand; it was officially established in 2014 and is one of the sub-brands of our parent company, Kar Porcelain. Kar Porcelain was founded in 1983 as a small ceramics workshop by my father, a mathematics teacher, and my late uncle.

As an educator, my father placed great importance on education and had a personality that constantly pushed boundaries and encouraged continuous improvement. I received a strong education myself, and I was fortunate to have an opportunity to directly apply what I learned in practice. Under my father’s guidance, I witnessed the growth of Kar Porcelain from a young age and learned the business from experienced masters.

The founding of Bonna marked a turning point for me. By focusing 100 per cent on the HoReCa sector, we were able to channel all our efforts into a single, clear direction.

With intensified colour depth, a seamless harmony of matte and glossy surfaces, and the ability to replicate handcrafted texture and tactile richness in mass production, FUSIONtech sets a new global standard for professional tableware. Enhancing both product quality and durability, it reinforces Bonna’s promise of premium excellence in the industry.

The first collections developed with this innovation include Aquelis, Kymen, Granix, and Retro Floral—all carrying the same high-performance features that professionals value across Bonna’s premium products. Crafted with a unique formula to withstand the demanding conditions of professional kitchens, these collections ensure outstanding durability. Selected items are covered by Bonna’s lifetime edgechip warranty and are resistant to sudden temperature changes. They are also safe for commercial dishwashers and microwaves.

I believe this focus allowed me to successfully put my knowledge into practice. Of course, curiosity and vision play a crucial role. You need a mindset that is open to learning and growth, combined with determination and passion, and a belief that these qualities lead to success. Of course, challenges are a natural part of the journey; what truly matters is the resilience to move forward, adapt, and grow through every experience. However,

■ Aquelis draws inspiration from the intricate patterns of corals and the fluid movements of underwater ecosystems, weaving marine motifs into its design.

■ Kymen captures the rhythm of nature and the soft traces left by water on sand, with surface patterns reminiscent of refined brushstrokes.

■ Granix brings the texture of real marble and its light-reflecting surfaces to modern dining tables.

■ Retro Floral features bright floral details that stand out against a matte background, blending nostalgic colour harmonies and adding a touch of romantic elegance to contemporary culinary experiences.

I don’t want to claim success as an individual achievement. This is not a one-person journey; it is a team effort. From the very beginning, we built the right team and continue to work with talented, dedicated people who share our passion and excitement. To return to your question, the secret is well known: working hard, staying committed, and running the journey with people who believe in the same vision. www.bonna.com.tr

Mepra

Hall 12.1, C30

www.theluxuryartmepra.com

Ambiente remains a central moment in the international trade calendar, and for Mepra it is always more than a showcase: it is a conversation with the market. The fair brings together retail, hospitality and design under one roof, offering a rare opportunity to read the temperature of the industry while presenting new ideas shaped by both tradition and evolution. For Mepra, Ambiente is where heritage craftsmanship meets contemporary needs. It allows the brand to present not only new products, but also new interpretations of how the table is lived today—across homes, professional kitchens and hospitality environments worldwide. The show’s international reach makes it a key platform for dialogue with long-standing partners and new audiences alike.

The tableware industry today shows encouraging resilience. On the positive side, there is a renewed appreciation for quality, durability and design authenticity. Consumers and professionals are becoming more selective, favouring products that combine functionality with timeless aesthetics.

At Ambiente, Mepra will highlight new products that reflects this philosophy. The focus is on refined design, thoughtful proportions and practical evolution—new tools, expanded sizes of much-loved items, and subtle updates that enhance everyday use. These introductions reinforce Mepra’s commitment to continuous development without losing sight of its core identity.

Porland

Hall 11.0, D11-D18 www.porland.com

Porland’s hero collection at Ambiente will be Astro. Astro is a new collection developed using a unique technique that combines digital printing with reactive glazing. This innovative approach brings together precise, consistent design with organic surface effects, giving each piece its own character. Designed for the HoReCa sector, Astro offers high performance and durability while delivering a refined, contemporary aesthetic that reflects our focus on innovation and design-led tableware.

Cerve Group

Hall 12.0, C75

www.cerve.it

Cerve will present 17 new decorated collections at Ambiente, from Bell’Italia and Jardin Sagrado to Pop Orange and Sogno d’Inverno, which they invite visitors to come and discover in person.

For Vidivi, the spotlight will be on Elisir and Essenze, which perfectly express the brand’s approach to quality, innovation and Italian-made excellence.

In addition, they will present their wine glasses, introduced last year, which represent “wine tasting and sommellerie according to Vidivi”, created through research and synergy between top-level designers and sommeliers. In the ANIMA glasses, Vidivi combines contemporary design, timeless classic style and glassblowing, now considered a true art form.

Despite its youth, Mesa Ceramics has established itself as a brand driven by integrity and business know-how (they’ve seen particular success with their ID7 vitrified stoneware suitable for isostatic pressing).

Francisco Braga, CEO, speaks to Tableware International about Mesa’s journey so far…

Developing success

How would you sum up the past year for Mesa Ceramics?

The past year has been a positive and transformative period for Mesa Ceramics. We successfully cemented our position in the market as specialists in the development of stoneware tableware products tailored specifically for retail and the demanding horeca sector. Our product portfolio, particularly those made with the ID7 body—a vitrified stoneware suitable for isostatic pressing— has shown that this material’s durability and resistance are highly valued not only in the HoReCa segment but also in retail markets. This shift has reinforced our understanding that customers across sectors appreciate the robustness of our products.

The year began with the launch of a new collection, which received an excellent reception from our

clients. Additionally, we proudly secured a German Design Award, highlighting our commitment to innovation and design excellence.

Throughout the year, we focused on consolidating relationships and expanding our market reach. While the

geopolitical landscape posed challenges to our industry, we remained committed to maintaining the high quality and differentiation

Did you know?

Mesa Ceramics’ packaging is made from 70 per cent recycled material and fully recyclable. Additionally, they recycle 95 per cent of their waste, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to minimising their environmental footprint.

of our products, reinforcing our reputation as a reliable and trustworthy supplier.

Looking ahead, we believe that innovation, product development, and exceptional service will continue to be the keys to our success.

“We are very aware of the significant evolution we have experienced over the past eight years”

Tell us about Ambiente, how has your attendance at the event changed and developed over the years?

We are very aware of the significant evolution we have experienced over the past eight years. Although we are still a relatively new player in the market, we feel that we have already achieved a status that allows us to “sit at the table with the established ones.” We are recognised for our design, innovation, quality, and product resistance, and this is a great source of pride for us.

Our journey has included moments of great stress due to

“One of our key challenges remains competition from low-cost imports, particularly from Asia. However, we believe that Europe’s strength lies in its ability to innovate through design, uphold sustainable manufacturing practices, and prioritise product longevity and differentiation”

achievement that we are very proud of. Ambiente has been pivotal to our growth. Over the years, we have increased our stand size and focused more on the products that truly make a difference. The move to Hall 12.0 in 2023 was especially meaningful, as it marked a new chapter — a symbol of the end of the Covid-19 pandemic. At that time, there was a strong sense of longing to reconnect physically, and Ambiente represented the return to normality and the cherished contact with our industry peers. The

Committed to retail

Francisco explains Mesa’s relationship to retailers..

“Mesa began its journey with specialised tableware lines dedicated to retail, which represented our original focus and core commitment. However, with the impact of Covid-19, we quickly recognised the need to adapt our portfolio to serve a broader professional market, which showed significant growth in the years that followed. Thanks to our expertise and internal capacity, we can develop products tailored to both retail and HoReCa sectors.

Although we have experienced notable growth in the HoReCa market in recent years, our investment in retail has never waned. Over the past two years, we have concentrated on developing pieces requested by retail clients, such as large

Mesa has seen great success with your ID7 stoneware concept –why has it resonated so much with the sector do you think? Historically, there has been a perception that stoneware is a fragile, heavy, and coarse material, highly susceptible to chipping at the edges. Our products have consistently challenged this notion, as we utilise advanced manufacturing technologies — notably isostatic pressing — which enables us to produce lightweight items that are significantly more resistant than standard stoneware.

serving bowls, complementary trays, and now, ovenware.

This year, at Ambiente, we introduced our first two ovenware pieces, designed to complement our UNO line. These are a set of two stylish roasters in different sizes, in our popular Dots colours, bringing a new level of elegance and practicality to the kitchen.

The first ovenware piece has been thoughtfully designed to enhance the visual appeal of the UNO collection. With its minimalist silhouette, soft curves, and modern design, it seamlessly combines functionality with style, reflecting Mesa’s ongoing commitment to offering products that blend beauty, practicality, and innovation.”

colour and intricate decoration through digital printing. The aim was to maintain these aesthetic attributes, but with the superior durability and resistance typically associated with porcelain.

larger stand showcased the awards we had won that year for design and technological innovation, and it embodied this renewed energy and optimism.

Ambiente remains the event that gathers the most professionals in our industry. It is with immense pride and humility that we have been highlighted in the German Design Awards and the Tableware Awards of Excellence, where we have been finalists and winners multiple times.

We already had a stoneware product of above-average quality and durability, but we believed there was potential for further enhancement. The launch of the ID7 project was the culmination of a rigorous internal and external R&D effort, involving collaboration with specialists to push the limits of what stoneware can achieve. Our objective was to develop a formulation for isostatic pressing that would result in a vitreous body with water absorption below 0.5 per cent, while preserving the aesthetic qualities that set our products apart — such as vibrant

We conducted extensive testing within Mesa, in client laboratories, and accredited laboratories, and the results were very encouraging — we are now operating at the level of the best in the market. We are proud to affirm that this investment has paid off; the product has received international recognition for its innovation, helped us acquire new clients, and improved the performance of our existing product range.

We launched the ID7 in the market with two complete lines: the Unico and the Classico. The Unico range was specifically developed for the ID7, targeting a specialised professional sector, while the Classico was created as a reimagining of a well-established, widely recognised product. Following strong sales and the need for diversification, this year we introduced the Novo line — identical to our best-selling Uno, but with doubled resistance, new designs, and colours tailored to meet market demands.

Mesa has also picked up numerous design awards in recent years, what is your winning design formula?

I believe that our consistent success over the years is closely linked to our unique mindset. Our goal each year is to surprise the market in a positive way. We aim to innovate not only in terms of product quality but also through colours and decorations that cater to a wide range of tastes.

With a very strong and differentiating product image and identity in the market, we have established a distinctive presence. Being one of the first to utilise digital printing technology on ceramics has enabled us to carve out a bold, innovative, and unique identity — set apart from

what was already available in the market. We firmly believe that the future lies in differentiation and a strong desire to continually innovate. This drive for originality and progress is what keeps us ahead, and we believe it is what helps us win awards in design.

How do you see the tableware industry currently, what are we doing right and what are we getting wrong?

We are living in an era defined by information, where access to quick and easy communication continues to expand for everyone. Societies are increasingly fastpaced, leaving little time for superficial interactions. In this context, we believe that the connections between family and friends will grow even more vital, and sharing a meal will become an even more cherished act.

Today’s consumers are drawn to simple, beautiful, durable products that foster a sense of well-being, calm, and sustainability. There is a rising societal awareness about responsible production, environmental impact, and product resilience. Wastefulness and constant replacement are losing favor; instead, people are choosing items thoughtfully — products that not only follow trends but also reflect individual identity and stand the test of time.

The hospitality sector is similarly seeking sustainable, durable tableware, despite price sensitivity. One of our key challenges remains

Sustainably speaking...

competition from low-cost imports, particularly from Asia. However, we believe that Europe’s strength lies in its ability to innovate through design, uphold sustainable manufacturing practices, and prioritise product longevity and differentiation.

Another of our advantages

confident that the European ceramics industry can continue to lead and succeed in a global marketplace. Overall, the sector is poised for a future where quality, sustainability, and meaningful design are more important than ever. Embracing these principles, along with our dedication to

“Our goal each year is to surprise the market in a positive way”

is our commitment to quality service and close proximity to our clients. This allows us to provide tailored solutions, faster response times, and a more personalised experience, which many customers value highly in a competitive market. By staying true to these core values, I am

exceptional service and proximity, will enable us to not only meet market demands but also to shape the industry in a positive and resilient way.

See Mesa Ceramics at Ambiente –Hall 12.0, B76 and visit www.mesa-ceramics.com

As a young brand, Mesa Ceramics was founding understanding that sustainability had to be part of their narrative from the get-go. Here, CEO Francisco Braga explains their approach…

Since our founding, Mesa has been genuinely dedicated to embedding sustainability into every facet of our operations—spanning our factory, products, and processes.

Our facility stands out as one of the most modern in Europe, equipped with cuttingedge machinery optimised to minimise waste while boosting efficiency. A cornerstone of our approach is the use of isostatic pressing technology combined with our innovative ID7 raw body. This combination yields products with an ultra-low water absorption of less than 0.5 per cent, confirming their vitreous classification. The result is highly durable, resistant, and long-lasting tableware—designed

to stand the test of time and significantly reduce the need for replacements, thereby cutting down waste and environmental impact.

Our manufacturing process produces virtually no waste—any small scraps are seamlessly recycled back into the production cycle, exemplifying our resource-conscious philosophy. We also take proactive steps to protect environmental resources, often surpassing statutory standards. For example, our single-fire stoneware process consumes less energy and emits fewer CO₂ emissions than traditional multi-firing techniques.

Locally sourcing raw materials helps us reduce transportation emissions and ensures that our inputs are free from harmful

substances. Our packaging, made from 70 per cent recycled material and fully recyclable, further reflects our eco-conscious mindset. Additionally, we recycle 95 per cent of our waste, reinforcing our commitment to minimising our environmental footprint.

Many of our processes are powered by renewable energy sources, underscoring our commitment to sustainability.

In essence, Mesa’s entire production chain embodies a deep dedication to sustainability, innovation, and environmental responsibility. We believe that responsible manufacturing is vital—not only for the health of our planet but also for creating products that our customers can trust and cherish for generations to come.”

Orrefors

Hall 3.1, G10-G18

www.orrefors.com

Orrefors will be at Ambiente with their exceptional Björn Franztén collections. Developed in close collaboration with the sommeliers of three-star chef Björn Frantzén, the Orrefors x Björn Frantzén collection represents a shared pursuit of absolute precision—where form, function, and experience converge. Conceived to meet the exacting standards of fine dining at the highest level, the series is equally at home in the hands of professionals and design-driven enthusiasts.

Now expanded with a complete barware range, the collection welcomes highball, lowball, coupe, martini, and Nick & Nora glasses—each shaped with the same meticulous attention to balance, clarity, and performance. Defined by a slender, clean silhouette, the barware seamlessly echoes the language of the existing stemware, creating a cohesive expression that elevates every cocktail, from classic to contemporary.

Also see Array designed by Mattias Stenberg which is a study in balance, rhythm, and refined utility. The collection is composed of three plate-and-bowl combinations, each crafted in silver and defined by its own distinct expression—quietly sculptural yet purposefully functional.

Through subtle variations in height and proportion, Array invites interaction and personalization. The pieces can be combined, layered, or used individually, offering both visual dynamism and practical versatility. Whether presented as a composed centerpiece or integrated into everyday rituals, the collection brings a thoughtful sense of order and elegance to the table— where design is as considered as its use.

Sambonet Hall 12.1, C01 www.sambonet.com

Sambonet, the historic Italian cutlery brand, has in recent years been working to relaunch its kitchenware offering.

This strategic move stems from the brand’s desire to build a coherent narrative that begins in the kitchen and extends to the table, with collections designed to perform on the hob while being aesthetically suited to the mise en place. A sense of continuity that today, more than ever, is increasingly sought after and appreciated by end consumers.

At Ambiente, Sambonet will present two lines. Chromatica is the cookware collection distinguished by functionality and versatility of each element: combined with the removable handle, the pieces move seamlessly from

oven to hob, becoming the next-generation PFAS free and non-stick casseroles.

Its design also makes Chromatica a stackable, space-saving collection, suitable for serving at the table thanks to its colors and shapes, which encourage use in both dining and living areas.

The new Sambonet collection, Black Edge, is a line of knives in an elegant total black finish, achieved through refined materials and sophisticated manufacturing process. The added value of both collections lies in their refined aesthetic, formal and chromatic research, which consistently goes hand in hand with the guarantee of the technical performance of every Sambonet product.

Stelton

Hall 3.1, J 90 www.stelton.com

Stelton’s SS26-collection presents a harmonious blend of new designs and seasonal updates, celebrating Nordic functionality and aesthetics.

This spring season introduces a new light colourway of the BRUS-carbonator. Now available in white it offers a bright and elegant expression, making it a product worthy being displayed on the kitchen countertop.

The collection also introduces the Orlo series - three serving bowls/platters in stainless steel, designed by Defne Koz & Marco Susani. The bowls feature a minimalist and sculptural expression, making them timeless, decorative, and functional for serving.

The EM77 family expands with two new colours of the EM77 vacuum jug, as well as the EM77 electric kettle in a beautiful new sand colour. Adding a fresh and modern look to the range.

Ariane Fine Porcelain

Hall 11.0, E39

arianefineporcelain.com

Founded in 2014, Ariane Fine Porcelain is a European brand specialising exclusively in B2B porcelain tableware for the global hospitality industry. Its focus has always been clear: to support professional operators with tableware that delivers both design integrity and long-term performance in demanding service environments.

At Ambiente 2026, Ariane will present a curated selection of collections that reflects its design direction for the coming year, with a strong emphasis on organic form, tactility, and durability. Central to this presentation is the launch of its barware range, introduced for the first time at Ambiente. This new category represents a natural evolution for Ariane, bridging the gap between tableware and barware and responding to the growing convergence of food and beverage presentation in hospitality.

Alongside the barware launch, visitors will discover Fjord, a collection inspired by organic landscapes and softened silhouettes. Fjord reflects the industry’s shift towards natural forms that feel intuitive in use while offering visual depth on the table. Every piece is engineered from high-performance porcelain to withstand intensive daily service without compromising its aesthetic.

Ariane’s strength lies in understanding how design functions in real hospitality settings. Its collections are developed by an in-house design team and produced at scale using advanced manufacturing techniques, ensuring consistency across large volumes. This enables chefs, hoteliers, and operators to maintain presentation standards while benefiting from reliability, ease of handling, and longevity across service cycles.

Costa Verde

Hall 11.0, D68 www.costa-verde. com

Ambiente 2026 set the stage for several premieres and celebrations at Costa Verde. Among the highlights is the Terra Black Edition, a new approach in which pigmented ceramic body adds depth, sophistication, and a distinctive character to the collection. The launch of the Harmony, Flow and Pura lines will also take place, showcase the combination of colored glaze techniques and digital printing, and reflecting a balance between technological innovation and aesthetic expression.

This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the Isola collection, designed by Studio Levien, a benchmark within Costa Verde’s portfolio. The occasion will be celebrated with the relaunch of the line, now expanded with new items, reaffirming its relevance and contemporary appeal to chefs, specifiers, and industry professionals.

Costa Verde’s presence at Ambiente 2026 thus stands as a testament to continuity, innovation and a forward-looking vision, anchored in a strong industrial tradition and a keen understanding of global sector dynamics.

Pampa Bay

Pampa Bay will bring an exciting and invigorating assortment of collections to Ambiente. Willow is a new collection which celebrates the quiet beauty of simplicity. Each piece is crafted in a luminous white finish that feels both timeless and fresh, allowing the natural elegance of the form to shine. The silhouettes are intentionally refined: smooth curves, gentle waves, and clean lines that create a harmonious canvas for any culinary creation. This thoughtful restraint makes the collection a natural companion to both modern and traditional décor, offering a fresh perspective on classic white serveware.

Meanwhile, the Portofino Plata collection brings a fresh sense of refinement to the table, reimagining a style customers already adore in a stunning new finish. The contrast of crisp white porcelain with a radiant silver edge creates a look that feels both modern and timeless. Perfect for gifting, hosting, or refreshing your own table, this collection embodies the kind of everyday luxury that customers return to again and again.

Marina

Selcik, head of product management at BHS tabletop

, tells Tableware International about the new novelties coming from its suite of brands from Bauscher to Schönwald, all available for partners to see at Ambiente 2026…

“Ambiente serves as our central platform for immersing

How would you sum up the hospitality industry currently?

Is it buoyant?

The hospitality industry is not euphoric, but it is resilient and rich in opportunities despite numerous challenges. International travel demand has returned, premium and experience-driven offerings are growing, and guests are seeking more than just accommodation or food service: individuality, emotion, and added value are becoming the key differentiating factors. At the same time, rising costs, labour shortages, and changing consumer behavior are demanding new and innovative responses.

As a result, the most successful operators are those who clearly position their offering, operate efficiently, and consistently keep their focus on the guest.

What new innovation can we expect to see coming out of the BHS camp?

BAUSCHER presents EDGE, a collection that perfectly combines clean design with functional excellence.

The GRADIENT décor concept, featuring subtle color shades, brings

visitors

in our brand worlds”

dynamic movement to the table and gives the collection a fresh, modern appeal.

KUMO by SCHÖNWALD impresses with outstanding design quality: soft, precise, and perfectly balanced. A collection that makes an impact through its beauty alone – calm, refined, and strong in its presence.

At the same time, SCHÖNWALD celebrates a special anniversary: 90 years of Form 98. With the MOMENTS décor concept, developed in collaboration with a Norwegian designer, this design classic is presented in a new, contemporary interpretation.

PLAYGROUND remains true to its promise: No Limits. A mix of diverse materials and unconventional designs opens new possibilities for highly individual table concepts. Created for hosts who deliberately set accents and design experiences guests long after the table has been portfolio is completed by the HEART collections. Soft colors combined harmonious shapes create versatile, easy-

to-use pieces that bring a modern lifestyle to the table – perfect for sharing, enjoyment, and moments of connection.

You have so many wonderful brands, from Bauscher to Schönwald, how do you ensure they are all operating to their full potential?

We ensure that each brand reaches its full potential by clearly defining its profile and developing it in a focused and strategic manner. In doing

Why is Ambiente such an important date in the diary for BHS tabletop?

Ambiente is of particular importance to us, as it is the most important international meeting point with our distributors and partners. No other trade fair enables us to meet such a large number of international partners from around the world in person within such a short period of time. Especially in international business, personal exchange is essential.

In addition, Ambiente serves as

“Ambiente is of particular importance to us, as it is the most important international meeting point with our distributors and partners”

so, we consistently align our approach with target groups, market positioning, and design DNA. Our brands Bauscher, Schönwald, Playground, and Heart & Soul each possess a distinct identity and a clear value proposition – forming the foundation for their sustainable success.

In short: clear differentiation externally, strong collaboration internally – this is how we ensure that each brand can fully realise its potential.

our central platform for immersing visitors in our brand worlds and experiencing our product innovations in a consolidated way. At the same time, it allows us to identify market and industry trends at an early stage, monitor competitive developments, and gain direct insights into how markets, assortments, and customer needs are evolving. In this way, we bring innovation, dialogue, and partnership together in one place.

Visit www.bhs-tabletop.com to see more.

See BHS tabletop at Ambiente in Hall 11.0, D49.

A Design that Enhances the Guest Experience with Simplicity and Elegance: Finesse

The simplest way to elevate the guest experience; Finesse. With its light, minimal, and striking design, it brings a fresh breath to professional presentation.

introduced as a versatile option for operators who value clarity, ease, and timeless design. Rather than redefining the banquet experience, it aims to support it with harmony and light sophistication—a quiet companion to the evolving expectations of today’s guests.

visual language without distraction. This smooth, quiet

Elegant in presence and practical in application, Finesse stands as a thoughtful addition to the modern hospitality landscape, inviting hotels to shape memorable moments with a softer, more relaxed expression of style.

For more information about the advantages, please contact us.

Vidrios San Miguel Hall 12.0, C54

www.vsanmiguel.com

Ambiente 2026 once again becomes the perfect stage to present the latest developments from Vidrios San Miguel and to share the brand’s vision of how recycled glass continues to evolve in response to the demands of today’s market. This year, the brand’s presence in Frankfurt highlights a renewed product selection alongside a carefully curated colour palette that reflects current and emerging trends in design and decoration.

With a long-standing commitment to sustainability, they continue to lead the way in the production of 100 per cent post-consumer recycled glass (GRS certified). At the brand’s stand, visitors will discover how innovation and environmental responsibility go hand in hand, resulting in products that combine conscious manufacturing with refined aesthetics. Their collections respond to a global market that increasingly values materials with a reduced environmental footprint, without compromising on quality or design.

After four decades of continuous participation, Ambiente has become an essential meeting point for the company. It is a truly international forum that allows them to engage with partners and professionals from all over the world, strengthen longterm relationships and gain valuable insight into the direction of the glass industry. Year after year, Frankfurt remains a key indicator of market evolution and a strategic space for business development.

The hospitality sector continues to play a central role in the brand’s growth strategy. Hotels, restaurants and cafés are increasingly prioritising sustainable solutions that align with their customers’ expectations. In this context, recycled glass has become a natural choice, and our product range is designed to meet the functional, aesthetic and environmental requirements of this demanding sector.

Among this year’s Ambiente highlights is Authentic, an iconic collection made from 100 per cent

post-consumer recycled glass, certified according to GRS standards. Its distinctive aesthetic, defined by the natural character of recycled material, gives each piece a unique identity.

Olas is a new bathroom accessory line made from 100 per cent post-consumer recycled glass, certified by GRS. Featuring a unique wave-inspired texture, the collection includes a soap dispenser, tumbler, and soap dish that combine sustainability with elegant design. Ideal for both home and hospitality settings, Olas offers stylish and eco-friendly solutions for modern bathrooms.

Ambiente is the perfect opportunity to explore how recycled glass continues to set trends and redefine sustainable design. The brand looks forward to welcoming visitors and sharing the latest expressions of its commitment to innovation, quality and responsibility.

MESA has introduced a new addition to its ID7 vitreous stoneware body assortment — expanding the possibilities for customers who expect the highest standards, both for retail and HoReCa.

NOVO is a contemporary range that unites modern design with exceptional performance. Crafted from our innovative vitreous stoneware body designed for isostatic pressing, NOVO delivers consistent, lightweight products. Its single-firing process enhances quality and sustainability while significantly reducing energy use and waste.

Loops is the first addition to NOVO range, where cutting-edge digital printing technology adds a soft texture to each piece, bringing a classic circular digital-print decoration a fresh addition of on-trend pastel colours.

Étoile

Reaching for the stars

Glamorous new holloware collection unveiled by Robert Welch

Dorset barware, Robert Welch’s new stainless steel holloware collection, is to be unveiled at Ambiente 2026.

Designed to elevate every setting, Dorset is bold, sophisticated and refined, with striking good looks and precision performance to match.

Made from the finest 18/10 mirror-polished stainless steel, the collection has been intentionally crafted with both form and function in mind.

Each piece is designed for flawless performance in the most exclusive restaurant and hospitality settings – bringing glamour, elegance and a touch of theatre to the bar and table.

The Dorset range includes a double-walled wine cooler, with precise fluted detailing, which keeps wine cool without condensation transferring to the table.

The generous and practical 2.2L

Did you know?

Design director Paul deBretton Gordon collaborated with leading US retailer Williams Sonoma to design a range of stainless-steel barware to complement its best-selling Dorset glassware.

double-walled ice bucket, with lid, keeps ice frozen for longer at the bar.

An elegant two-liter stainless-steel pitcher, wine coaster and double-walled cocktail shaker complete the dramatic Dorset collection.

Each piece is designed to work in harmony with Robert Welch’s existing barware accessories, including bar tongs, ice scoops,

fluted range is defined by bold, intentional lines and a dramatic linear silhouette.

Each show-stopping piece is crafted to catch and reflect the light, creating a striking visual presence and dramatic reflections across every table and bar in contemporary and classic settings.

“The carefully considered, intricate fluted detail around each piece creates a pleasing star-burst reflec-

“The carefully considered, intricate fluted detail around each piece creates a pleasing star-burst reflection on the table surface. It sits perfectly with cut crystal

glassware, bringing a touch of luxury to the table”

Paul deBretton Gordon

muddlers and bar spoons – part of the best-selling Radford range –and textured drinks stirrers.

Design director Paul deBretton Gordon collaborated with leading US retailer Williams Sonoma to design a range of stainless-steel barware to complement its bestselling Dorset glassware.

With distinct architectural detailing, this sophisticated, deeply

tion on the table surface,” said Paul.

“It sits perfectly with cut crystal glassware, bringing a touch of luxury to the table.”

Commercial dishwasher safe, each piece in the Dorset range comes with a 25-year guarantee.

Find Robert Welch in Hall 11, Booth C81 at Ambiente.

www.robertwelch.com

Discover our collection at Ambiente Hall 3.0 | Stand B29

Sales & Project Manager

Leanne van Doleweerd

L.vandoleweerd@heinendelftsblauw.nl

www.heinendelftsblauw.nl

As Rosenthal moves into a new year, its focus is on a new concept. Yes, 2026 is Rosenthal’s Year of Gifting and along with their obvious tableware collections, they have elevated their novelty offering to cleverly support the theme...

This is Rosenthal’s year of gifting

Rosenthal, by its own admission, has gone through a “year of change and transition”. From investing in factories –such as the production site at Rotbühl which has ties to the iconic Walter Gropius, to investing in its digital and retail space – the company has set clear its intentions for growth.

“The decisions behind these changes were not always easy, but they were taken with a clear sense of responsibility and a long-term perspective,” a company spokesperson tells Tableware International.

“Throughout the year, we set important impulses for the future by making targeted investments across various areas of the company. A key focus was the Rotbühl factory – not only as a production site, but as a historic design icon closely linked to Walter Gropius. By investing in this landmark, we reaffirm our commitment to design heritage, craftsmanship and innovation. At the same time, these steps were essential in

strengthening our foundations and shaping Rosenthal’s future, always with a clear focus on maintaining the highest standards of quality that define our brand.”

Positively, Rosenthal says the retail arm of its business is on an upwards trajectory with both brick and mortar, and online channels, performing well – with focus also

“Our

brand,” a spokesperson tells the magazine. “Rosenthal continues to be perceived as a strong and relevant brand, which gives us confidence in the market. Going forward, our focus remains on further strengthening retail by offering even better products, enhancing the customer experience and continuing to adapt to changing consumer behaviours.”

focus remains on further strengthening retail by offering even better products, enhancing the customer experience and continuing to adapt to changing consumer behaviours”

being placed on the digital space.

“Both our physical retail presence and our online channels are performing well, with digital playing an increasingly important role in how customers engage with the

Did you know?

Naturally, in this line of work, hospitality sales are always going to be important, and that is no different for Rosenthal. Interestingly they tell us it is their “iconic collections” which continue to be most in

Rosenthal meets Versace will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Le Jardin collection.

demand in the professional circles.

“In particular, pieces from the former Rosenthal Studio-Line stand out – a label under which many of Rosenthal’s most important and design-driven collections were created. These designs combine timeless aesthetics with the durability and functionality required in professional environments. Among them, TAC remains a true icon and a consistent favourite, valued for

strong design identity, reliability and the ability to adapt to customised solutions,” the company explains.

Aside from which collections are most popular in hospitality, Rosenthal says it is seeing ongoing growth with the hospitality sector – particularly with bespoke, personalised collections. “It has always been one of our strengths to offer specialised made-to-order solutions, and this expertise has become even more

“Both our physical retail presence and our online channels are performing well, with digital playing an increasingly important role in how customers engage with the brand”

its unmistakable design language and versatility. Together, these collections reflect exactly what hospitality partners are looking for: a

relevant today,” they say.

In fact, Rosenthal tells Tableware International they are dedicating increased capacity and resources to this part of the business, particularly in customised designs, logos and colour concepts tailored to individual projects – this is where Rosenthal really see opportunity.

“We are investing significantly to support this development, especially in sectors such as hotels, restaurants and cruise ships. This enables us to combine our long-standing experience with new capabilities, offering flexible, high-quality solutions that meet the specific needs of our hospitality partners and further strengthen our presence in this market,” the brand adds.

One of Rosenthal’s key launches from 2025 was Sonetto – a glorious mixed material assortment which

offered everything from porcelain to stoneware – this was positioned as a collection which would work equally well for both the professional and retail spheres. Reaction has been so positive, Rosenthal are now expanding the collection with Sonetto Platino. They tell us: “Sonetto has been received extremely well since its launch, and we are very pleased with the response after its first year on the market. The collection has resonated strongly with both retail partners and consumers, thanks to its expressive design language and versatility. Building on this success, we are continuing to develop the line and will be introducing an extension with a new colour. With Sonetto Platino, we are adding a refined new interpretation that further enriches the collection and underlines its long-term potential.”

Of course, we can expect equally as exciting launches from Rosenthal in 2026. In fact, this year sees Rosenthal delivering a multifaceted Home collection, think vases, vide poches and decorative pieces.

“At the same time, we remain firmly committed to our core expertise in tableware, with highlights including collections such as Sonetto and the celebration of anniversaries of iconic lines. These include milestones within Rosenthal meets Versace and the 30th anniversary of Le Jardin, as well as an expansion of the Idyllia collection created with Swarovski. Together, these elements underline Rosenthal’s ability to evolve, introduce new ideas and categories, while staying true to its design heritage.”

Along with the above mentioned, other key collections

Give the gift of Rosenthal

This year is Rosenthal’s themed Year of Gifting. Rosenthal came up with the concept to celebrate small acts of kindness in what has become a very fast-paced world. “With the Year of Gifting 2026, Rosenthal is embracing this idea by focusing on products that help express appreciation in a thoughtful and lasting way. The concept grew naturally from observing how people increasingly look for meaningful objects rather than grand gestures. Rosenthal offers a wide spectrum of gifting ideas – from vases and home décor pieces to scented candles,

mugs and plates – allowing people to find the right gift for every occasion, relationship and moment,” the brand explains. To support the concept, Rosenthal is expanding the theme of “gifting” across a myriad of its collections including the new Home collection, as well as giftingfocused pieces such as Glass Objects by Michela Cattai, the iconic Midi Vases in colour, and the Mug+. At the same time, iconic collections like Sanssouci will also play an important role, with special anniversary sets being introduced to mark its 100th anniversary.

for Rosenthal (designed to support its Year of Gifting concept) include gifting-focused pieces such as Glass Objects by Michela Cattai, Midi Vases in colour, and the Mug+. At the same time, iconic collections like Sanssouci will also play an important role, with special anniversary sets being introduced to mark its 100th anniversary.

Rosenthal at Ambiente

To visit their stand at Ambiente – go to Hall 12.1, C01.

ROYAL SCOT CRYS TA L

Porcel, as a brand, is entirely convinced of what it stands for; unwaveringly committed to honourable production and design. President Ana Luisa Roque tells Tableware International about the company’s approach to porcelain…

Honouring design purity

As a brand whose identity is centred around the production of exclusive collections for high-end retail, Porcel could be considered a rarity in the industry. They are uniquely positioned in that hospitality is not a driving force for them, rather, they choose to focus on custom-made projects for brands and venues who can uphold the unique values of their delicate porcelain collections.

“Porcel’s focus has always been on high-end retail and exclusive custommade projects for international brands,” president Ana Luisa Roque tells Tableware International. “Hospitality does play a role, but only at a premium level, such as fine dining restaurants, selected hotel areas or ceremonial settings. Our porcelain is delicate by nature and intentionally crafted for occasions where elegance and visual impact matter. So, while we serve both segments, our strength lies in curated, design-driven solutions with high perceived value.”

Over the past year the Portuguese company has solidified its already enviable market position, strengthening its presence in key international markets, launching new collections, and expanding its custom-

made projects with prestigious clients.

“It was also a year in which we continued to implement our sustainability strategy, with concrete actions in production and energy efficiency,” adds Ana Luisa.

“Despite global challenges, we’ve remained focused on creating value

distinctive and timeless,” explains Ana Luisa. “This includes not only visual impact but also design that endures, both stylistically and physically. An approach that aligns with our vision of porcelain solutions that combine design, innovation and sustainability.”

Elaborating on Porcel’s approach

“Design is at the core of our brand identity, not just aesthetically but strategically”

through quality, design and lasting relationships.”

It is this faithfulness to quality which has seen Porcel foster a reputation as one of the most desirable design-led brands on the market – something Ana Luisa and her team are intent on protecting.

“Design is at the core of our brand identity, not just aesthetically but strategically. We invest continuously in creative direction, trend analysis and product development to ensure each collection expresses our DNA: elegant,

to design Ana Luisa says the brand believes design must evoke emotion, reflect cultural shifts and remain technically feasible.

“Our approach blends tradition with innovation, resulting in collections that are visually refined and technically sophisticated. The key principles we follow are purity of form, material excellence, detail precision, emotional resonance and an increasingly strong focus on sustainability. We follow trends and reinterpret them through our own

lens, always staying true to the essence of the brand.”

Reflecting on the past year, Ana Luisa says one of her key take-aways is that consistency and flexibility go hand in hand. “2025 reaffirmed that investing in design, storytelling, and close client relationships delivers results. We’ve seen the importance of remaining flexible, especially when developing bespoke solutions, while staying true to who we are as a brand. And we’ve learned that sustainability, when integrated with purpose, is not a trend but a long-term commitment that strengthens everything we do.”

Excitingly, visitors to the Porcel stand at Ambiente will enjoy an entirely new stand concept.

“It’s modern, elegant and immersive, designed to reflect Porcel’s identity and our ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability. Visitors will discover new collections that combine artistic expression with technical sophistication, as well as highlights from our bespoke and design-led approach that continues to set us apart.”

You can see Porcel’s new stand and meet the team during Ambiente, visit stand Hall 12.1, B67

William Edwards

Hall 11.0, C81 www.williamedwards.co.uk

Launching at Ambiente, Celestine by William Edwards introduces a new expression of refined luxury, where timeless elegance meets contemporary craftsmanship. Designed to elevate the tabletop across both formal and modern dining settings, Celestine reflects William Edwards’ commitment to precision, artistry, and enduring style.

At the heart of the collection is a beautifully considered design that balances structure with softness. Precise pinstriping forms the foundation of Celestine’s aesthetic, creating a sense of order and rhythm that gently guides the eye toward the centre of each piece. This deliberate framing enhances food presentation while maintaining a clean, uncluttered look—allowing culinary creations to take centre stage.

What truly sets Celestine apart is its subtle iridescent lustre and innovative interference shimmer. As light moves across the surface, the glaze reveals a delicate play of radiance that shifts with the viewing angle, bringing depth and quiet drama to the tabletop. The effect is refined rather than bold, offering a sophisticated visual experience that feels luxurious without being overstated. Soft, celestial blue tones emerge and recede, creating a calm, captivating shimmer that adds dimension and interest to every setting.

Steelite International

Hall 11.0, C79

www.steelite.com

Steelite will take pride of place in Hall 11.0 with their exciting product line-up. Leading the way is Orbita, the latest addition to the Steelite Performance portfolio. Designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind, Orbita is characterised by its elegant, flowing circular lines that naturally draw the eye toward the centre of the plate. This subtle visual movement creates an ideal canvas for chefs to frame ingredients with intention, elevating presentation without distraction. The softly organic, refined rim adds a contemporary, handcrafted sensibility—perfectly suited to today’s diverse dining environments, from relaxed all-day concepts to refined fine dining.

Orbita is available in classic white, alongside three distinctive semi-matte glazes that allow operators to tailor their tabletop to mood and menu. Fuse Sable offers a warm, earthy, understated tone that pairs beautifully with natural ingredients and comfort-led cuisine. Fuse Tide introduces a cool, fluid, serene aesthetic, ideal for seafood-forward menus and lighter presentations. For those seeking impact, Fuse Jet delivers a bold, modern, and dramatic statement that enhances contrast and visual depth on the plate. Together, these options provide versatility while maintaining the durability and performance Steelite is known for.

Alongside Orbita, Florinne makes a compelling debut, capturing the spirit of where nostalgia meets modern refinement. Embracing the emerging “Newstalgia” trend, Florinne reinterprets heritage-inspired motifs through a contemporary lens. The result is a pattern that feels comforting and familiar, yet undeniably current—ideal for venues looking to tell a story through their tabletop. Florinne bridges past and present with ease, offering warmth, character, and sophistication in equal measure.

RAK brings the vibes to Ambiente

RAK Porcelain will launch a series of new collections at Ambiente 2026, visit their stand Hall 11, D30 to see more…

At Ambiente Frankfurt 2026, RAK Porcelain introduces VIBE, a collection defined by expressive flower-shaped plates and bowls that bring ornament, softness, and character back to the table. Inspired by petal-like forms, VIBE balances a modern sensibility with a subtle vintage spirit, creating pieces that feel decorative without becoming nostalgic.

The collection stands out through its sculptural silhouettes. Curved, blooming outlines frame food in a natural and generous way, making each plate an active part of the presentation. VIBE is designed for chefs who see the plate not only as a support, but as a visual element that contributes to the atmosphere of the table.

Next is Esencia, a collection built around material expression, organic form, and sensory depth. Presented at Ambiente Frankfurt 2026, it brings together two complementary series — Between and Rihla — united by a shared design philosophy and a strong connection to nature.

The heart of Esencia lies in Between, designed by Spanish designer Gemma Bernal. Conceived as an ode to nature and earth, the series is developed as a flexible design language offering multiple expressions. A plain ivory version provides a timeless and neutral foundation, allowing food to remain the focal point of the table. Alongside it, two textured designs introduce a tactile and visual dimension: Speckle and Nuance, both available in textured black and textured ivory.

Speckle features a surface inspired by the movement of water, with organic, irregular textures that interact softly with light and create subtle visual rhythm. Nuance offers a more structured expression, drawing inspiration from snake-skin–like natural patterns. Completing the Between series, four new colours expand the collection’s expressive potential, inviting chefs to mix, layer, and compose tables with personality while preserving harmony.

Rihla, the second series within Esencia, complements Between with designs inspired by travel and cultural exchange

Buffet Coloured , meanwhile, expands RAK Porcelain’s buffet offer with a collection designed to bring clarity, rhythm, and visual energy to contemporary food presentation. Presented at Ambiente Frankfurt 2026, this extension introduces colour as a functional element, enhancing both the organisation and the appeal of buffet layouts.

The collection builds on clean, generous shapes developed for professional service environments.

Buffet Coloured is designed for versatility across hotel buffets, catering concepts, and self-service environments. At Ambiente, Buffet Coloured will be presented in realistic buffet configurations, demonstrating how colour can be used strategically to create visual flow, coherence, and impact.

Finally, RAK Porcelain continues to evolve its established ranges with a series of new shapes presented at Ambiente Frankfurt 2026. Core, Ease, Ease Selva, and Nordic each receive thoughtful updates designed to respond to reallife service needs while preserving their original identities.

The new shapes focus on refined proportions, softened rims, and improved balance.

Ease and Ease Selva expand with additional organic forms that support relaxed, natural table layouts. Ease Selva strengthens its connection to nature through shapes that feel fluid and grounded. Core introduces new silhouettes designed for everyday performance, offering reliability with renewed visual interest. Nordic, known for its minimalist language, gains updated forms that maintain clean lines while increasing versatility.

At Ambiente, the new shapes will be presented in mixed table settings, demonstrating how different collections can coexist seamlessly. This approach reflects RAK Porcelain’s vision of the table as a flexible, evolving space. www.rakporcelain.com

Trends Birds

Sky high perfection

Burleigh

Asiatic Pheasants is Burleigh’s most popular pattern, produced in the heart of the Staffordshire potteries using the unique skills of a dedicated team of craftspeople. This pattern unsurprisingly depicts delicate pheasant motifs and was inspired by the fabulous, imported East Asian tea wares much loved in the 18th century, ironically these days this collection has become the very epitome of English ceramics. Available across four colourways and a huge range of shapes. New for this year is the charcoal black version, a pattern that is versatile, light for informal daytime dining, and sumptuously dramatic in the evening.

If they aren’t already part of your home décor, collections and pieces featuring bird motifs are set to fly sky high. Gorgeously on-trend, and yet entirely timeless, these pieces offer a whimsical alternative to minimalism…

www.burleigh.co.uk

Melody Rose’s Urban Nature is a contemporary celebration of the natural world and all its beauty, captured on the finest bone china, handcrafted in England. The collection includes butterflies, eagles, dragonflies, bees and the occasional cheeky blackbird. Playful yet elegant, Melody Rose pieces work wonderfully on their own but are also designed to be mixed, matched and layered to create heritage tableware sets for the 21st century.

www.melodyrose.co.uk

Sieger by Fürstenberg

The wafer-thin porcelain tumbler The Kiwis with goldplated interiors is colourfully decorated and has been designed with loving attention to detail. The tiny flightless birds may not be quite as well-known as other animals, but that didn’t stop them becoming New Zealand’s national symbol. With their adorable-looking plumage, they’ll warm even the coldest of hearts. Kiwis are also nocturnal – a promising sign that your guests are in for a fun evening. Part of the proceeds of this collection are donated to the animal rescue organisation Defend, formerly known as National Park Rescue. Their ranger and patrol teams protect African national parks and operate strategic, long-term conservation projects.

www.fuerstenberg-porzellan.com

Zwiesel Fortessa

From the Fortessa brand, this is high-quality porcelain meeting elegant floral patterns. With floral vines and magnificent birds in royal blue, Florina is an eye-catching highlight on the restaurant table and creates a very special dining experience for your guests.

www.zwiesel-fortessa-group.com

Bowl culture became a real talking point several years ago with a clear steer towards more informal dining styles, exacerbated by busy lifestyles and a trend towards the “less is more” aesthetic.

Culturally, the way we entertain and consume has undoubtedly been influenced by changing lifestyles but has the bowl’s place on the tablescape shifted with it? From the continued popularity of the coupe to more elaborate tastemaker pieces with scalloped edges and beaded rims, the bowl enjoyed

says. “In our Vida Alegria and Nube collections of luxury melamine both contain items we’ve called pasta bowls, but they’re really everything bowls. Similarly, our melamine cereal bowls are great for soups and salads, too.”

Porcel

Beatriz Ball

When asked why she thinks bowls have the modern family in such a chokehold, Beatriz says: “Eating habits have changed so much in recent decades due to various factors. There is a move to more healthy foods, but familiarity with the cuisines of various cultures, and the availability of fresher prepared foods has altered the landscape. Bowl has become an entire category of cuisine, as

Bowling for greatness

www.porcel.com

At Porcel, tableware complements pieces are essential to create a complete and elegant mealtime experience. Bowls and coupe-shaped pieces are more than a trend but a staple of modern table culture. From soup to salads, starters to sides, and even sauces, the brand’s wide range of bowl sizes adapts to every moment of the meal. Available in a variety of forms, finishes and decorative styles, including full gold or platinum, each bowl brings functionality with refined aesthetics.

The coupe shape is where elegance meets simplicity. Its smooth design gives collections a fluid, contemporary look, making it a good choice both for formal and casual dining. Collections like Apricot, Pantheon, or Corallyn feature this shape prominently, alongside select pieces in other lines. Proving that in the world of porcelain, bowls are not just practical, they’re brave by design.

“The pasta bowl … has steadily become an alternative to a dinner plate”

Jemma Baskeyfield, Burleigh

The bowl has positioned itself as a main player on the dinner table arguably eclipsing the plate for its versatility and functionality. Tableware International’s editor Mairead Wilmot takes a closer look at the bowl’s brilliance, finding out just why it works so well for the family unit, and casual dining…

a commercial glam-up.

From personal experience with my own family of five, we reach for small bowls far more frequently than plates, but I wondered if that was true of every family?

“Bowls, of all shapes and sizes, are our most popular items, but in the dinnerware realm, smaller bowls are strong sellers,” Beatriz Ball

in a “zen bowl,” usually a healthy, customisable meal featuring a grain base, a healthy protein, lots of fresh veggies and a light, Asian-inspired dressing. Generally promoting mindfulness and balanced eating, bowls in the culinary sense are here to stay, and so are bowls, the article of tableware!”

However, Beatriz says for pur-

Burleigh

Category Bowls

poses of traditional dining, her brand offers more plates than dinnerware bowls but adds: “with the number of smaller bowls that we sell, it is difficult to estimate how many of our bowls are being employed at the dinner table on the con sumer level.”

Interestingly, Femke Smelt, design & product manager

Heinen Delfts Blauw, touches on another point – affordability.

“Another factor that drives the popularity of bowls is their price point. While this can vary depending on size, design, and material, quality dinner plates typically cost more than quality bowls. As a result, bowls tend to be more affordable. When I look at our sales data, mugs consistently top the list, followed by bowls, with plates coming in third.”

The same questions were posed to Jemma Baskeyfield, brand manager at Burleigh Pottery who says bowls have been just as important as plates for some time at Burleigh. “I would say the two key shapes are the pasta bowl and the medium footed bowl. The pasta bowl is really used for much more than serving pasta, it has steadily become an alternative to a dinner plate, given the shallow shape it is super versatile and works for so many modern food choices, from a Sunday roast, through to the Friday night curry!”

Jemma credits versatility as being a crucial factor in the bowl’s popularity. “When we talk to consumers, we often hear the answer is ‘versatility’. When consumers are prepared to buy handcrafted tableware, they care about how and where it is made. But that may mean having to forego huge dinner sets that comprise multi-sizes plates and bowls. Shallow bowls provide a great all-round solution.” And echoing Beatriz Ball’s thoughts on the matter, Jemma adds: “We

also have a much more varied range of foods being prepared in the home and bowls often fit these dining trends better than a regular plate.”

However, Burleigh’s brand manager makes the point that the plate has not lost its standing on the dinner table. “We see some of our bowls like the pasta bowl growing in popularity year on year. Plates will always remain important, afternoon tea for example. Where would we be without an elegant

“When I look at our sales data, mugs consistently top the list, followed by bowls, with plates coming in third”

Femke Smelt, Heinen Delfts Blauw

Medard de Noblat

www.amefa.com

The Shadow collection by Médard de Noblat embraces the enduring appeal of bowls and coupé shapes with a contemporary twist. Crafted from premium stoneware, Shadow features deep, generous bowls and elegant coupé plates designed for versatile dining. Its minimalist design is enhanced by a soft matte finish on the outside and subtle tonal variations, creating a sense of depth and sophistication. Perfect for modern hospitality and home dining alike, Shadow combines functionality with artisanal beauty, making it a standout choice for those who value both practicality and style in their tableware.

“We initially reconfigured our place settings to include dinner bowls but quickly found they sell just as well on their own”

Daniel Gabbay, Gibson Homewares

Dibbern

www.dibbern.com

With Juno, Dibbern presents a masterpiece of modern table culture. This tableware series, crafted from the finest fine bone china, captivates with its elegant, floating form and pure silhouette. Designed by Bodo Sperlein, Juno reinterprets tableware in an exceptionally light, almost floating manner. Its distinctive design language unites soft curves with a raised foot, giving each piece a unique presence. The collection is available in two variations: classic white or a delicate golden ombré decoration that elegantly accentuates its slender profiles.

“With JUNO, I wanted to create a collection that is both modern and timeless – a fusion of form and function that elevates the dining table in a special way,” the designer explains.

Sambonet

www.sambonet.com

While bowl culture has become an established trend in contemporary tableware, Sambonet offers its own interpretation, combining heritage and design thorough objects that anticipated the language of bowl and coupe forms and continue to define it today. Leading the way is the Gio Ponti Centerpiece, a project that remained unpublished until 2013, when Sambonet finally brought it to light, allowing a wider audience to appre ciate the perfectly balanced geometric forms that have always characterized the work of the renowned designer. Two stemmed bowls are joined to form a single sphere which, when placed at the center of the table or in a living space, enhances its surroundings. Once opened, the Centerpiece reveals its dual func tion: two bowls can exist independently, offering the possibility of presenting different proposals. IToday, the design piece is available in a range of colors, as well as in a gold and silver plated versions.

plate. For Burleigh, it is a bit more complicated than ‘either/or’ as both have an important role. Burleigh do have such a diverse customer base, with hospitality becoming such an important focus this means we still see plates remaining important. Plates are a crucial part of our hospitality offering. But for consumers it really is becoming a very close race, with dinner plates a nose ahead.”

At over&back, VP product & merchandising Laura Fischer, says the brand is continuing to expand its dinner bowl offerings for both retail partners and consumers driven, she says, by the growing preference for relaxed dining.

“The increasing interest in global cuisine and home cooking further reinforces the relevance of this item. From morning breakfast bowls to lunchtime entrée salads, -

stems from the fact that contemporary menus – from healthy bowls to one-pot dishes – require tableware that envelops the food, giving a feeling of warmth and comfort.

Our sales statistics clearly show that coupé-type dishes are becoming the new king of the table – they are the perfect hybrid, combining the functional depth of a bowl with the elegance and display surface of a plate.”

Prior to 2016, when The Wall Street Journal first announced dinner bowls as the new plates, Gibson Homewares has already introduced a dinner bowl to their collections.

bap, the dinner bowl supports an

occasions. Simply put, the dinner bowl is the most versatile item in

nowa (Ćmielów, Chodzież, point that while bowlsised the way food is served.

“At Gibson, we refer to them as dinner bowls, meal bowls, or entrée bowls,” says Daniel Gabbay, vice president of creative at Gibson Homewares in Los Angeles, CA. “We initially reconfigured our place settings to include dinner bowls but quickly found they sell just as well on their own, making them perfect for any meal, whether for casual entertaining or daily dining.”

Gibson Homewares has also developed stackable dinner plates with raised edges that move effortlessly between uses, doubling as dinner bowls or serving pieces.

“We see that multifunctionality strongly resonates with consumers and influences how they shop and dine,” Daniel adds.

And so, while undoubtedly plates remain the center piece of the tablescape, there is no denying the bowl has become its unsung hero – long live the bowl!

In Depth EcoMade

When Fine2Dine launched its EcoMade brand in 2025, they were intent on doing things differently. First introduced at HOST, EcoMade stands out for a few reasons – it’s been designed for the hospitality industry so is tough, crafted to withstand all the rigours of professional life. Secondly, Fine2Dine have made EcoMade in a zero-carbon emission facility,

Made for dining

emission facility to address the growing need for more ecological products,” explains F2D’s senior product manager, Timo Ooms.

“This is an addition to the current product offerings and allows us to provide our customers a full scale of products and solutions within F2D.” The EcoMade concept has been developed over a two-year period, Timo tells us.

“Being able to offer items without carbon emissions is a unique feature and advantage which can open many doors to hotels and restaurants who are eco-conscious”

so its green credentials are undisputed.

But what first prompted Fine2Dine to bring the EcoMade concept to reality?

“We saw an opportunity in the market for more organic and natural looking, handmade products and the possibility for offering customised products in a more accessible way, all of this powered by a zero-carbon

“The first seed was planted more than two years ago, but we needed the time to work out and develop this entire new concept of producing tableware. Eventually we were able to start creating the first collection last summer, this in an entire new facility, which resulted in the introduction of EcoMade during HOST.”

Fine2Dine developed a material which they say addresses the

needs of the hospitality market in that it is durable and resistant.

“It is high fired in a 100 per cent electrical kiln which results in a fully vitrified, porcelain clay body,” Timo says. “So, the material has zero per cent water absorption and a high mechanical strength. As the colour of the clay is not pure white it is called ‘natural porcelain’ which perfectly matches its beige tone.”

EcoMade was launched at HOST Milano and enjoyed positive feedback from those who immediately saw the potential in the new brand.

“Not only due to the additional and new products, but also because of ecological aspect,” Timo explains. “Being able to offer items without carbon emissions is a unique feature and advantage which can open many doors to hotels and restaurants who are eco-conscious.”

EcoMade has been launched with a full complement of six collections which Timo reveals was a calculated decision from Fine2Dine. “From the beginning we wanted to display the full potential of EcoMade which reflects in the different collections that we created. From unique shapes, over special glaze

applications and textures that add character to the pieces. For us it was important that our clients could see the possibilities that we will be able to offer them in the future.”

Visit www.finediningandliving. eu to learn more about EcoMade.

EcoMade at Ambiente

See EcoMade in Frankfurt by visiting Hall 11.0, D90.

“As EcoMade is a brand-new range, this is the perfect moment to stop by, get a first look, and discover all the new products we’re launching,” says Lynne.

“ The Inspired Home Show ® 2026 will feature ove r 2,000 unique brands showcasing more than 300,000 products to attendees from 115 countries. Special destinations that debuted last year will be expanded including the Pet Products and Candle Pavilions as well as the Travel Gear & Luggage Expo. New fo r 2026 is the SPLiCE Licensing Hub featuring well-known licensors looking fo r ret ail and product partnerships. Each of these areas give ret ailers expanded opportunities while complementing our existing and more traditional hous ewa res categories.

The biggest n ews though is that the Show day pattern will shift to Tu esday, Wednesday and Thursday rather than beginning over the weekend. Reaction has been overwhelmingly positive from both ret ailers and exhibitors as we embrace the cultural shift with the younger generation placing a higher value on a more “life - work” balance.

The industry will gather in Chicago, March 10-12, and you are invited to visit The Inspired Home Show where yo u will find the lat est product designs and inn ovations to meet your customers’ needs!”

— DEREK MILLER, President & CEO, International Housewares Association

We talk

to three global suppliers

from the UK , Poland and India , who tell us about the importance of retail to their businesses…

A moment for retail

Meet the panellists

Jemma Baskeyfield brand manager, Burleigh Pottery

Anand Baldawa, CEO, thinKitchen

Joanna Niedziela director of domestic sales and marketing Polska, Grupa Porcelanowa

What is your opinion on the overall state of the tableware industry today – what are the positives and what do we need to take heed of?

We are crawling but coming back for sure! Our experience locally says that consumers are switching towards “buy better but buy fewer”. Homeware retail in India is being redefined in structure as well as demand.

That said, at the same time, we need to be very mindful of the complexity within India. Today’s India is more heterogeneous than ever, with differences in tastes, culture, preferences, aspirations, and markets are the size of entire countries.

Do you anticipate a positive year for the industry in 2026?

Cautiously, yes (fingers crossed!). We believe 2026 will be positive. No doubt there is a complicated geopolitical environment we live in, but we believe it can only have so much of an impact on the ultimate consumer. Brands and suppliers that are clear about their positioning, invest in design and quality, and consistently deliver service will grow.

How important are brick-and-mortar sales to your business?

Jemma Baskeyfield, brand manager, Burleigh Pottery

While there is continued focus on hospitality, what emphasis do you place on the retail sector?

Retail is really important to Burleigh. We, of course, have our own retail shop at the pottery, and this is a fantastic barometer for getting an understanding of the wider retail world. We get to meet the end user of our wares, which is invaluable. Also, we are finding many carefully curated lifestyle retailers are choosing Burleigh, not to forget those larger retailers, which still exist. Burleigh has a presence in fantastic stores like Harrods and Liberty, these all form the ‘shop windows’ for the entire Burleigh business.

How important are brick-and-mortar sales to your business?

Bricks and mortar stores are fundamental to the Burleigh business. Burleigh’s own retail shop is the public face of the company and provides much more than a reliable revenue stream. We gain a greater understanding of what the customer thinks about new patterns and shapes from those who use our products day in day out.

Are B2C sales an important revenue point for you?

“Burleigh has a presence in fantastic stores like Harrods and Liberty, these all form the ‘shop windows’ for the entire Burleigh business”

Burleigh have sold B2C since around the late 1990s. Our website sells to consumers all over the world. Sales from the website and the retail store have been an important part of our revenue for over 20 years, and we do not see that changing soon. For us a diverse revenue stream has been key to our long history.

Joanna Niedziela, director of domestic sales and marketing Polska, Grupa Porcelanowa (Ćmielów, Chodzież, Lubiana)

While there is continued focus on hospitality, what emphasis do you place on the retail sector?

Brick-and-mortar is very important for us, especially in a country like India where touch, feel and demonstration still play a big role in purchase decisions for premium kitchen and tableware. This also plays out very conspicuously in select geographies such as North India where the culture is to step out and shop vs. South India, where its more online. Our shop-in-shop concepts and curated in-store displays allow us to tell a complete brand and lifestyle story – something that is harder to do on a single product page online. Physical retail also helps us build relationships with retail staff, who are often the real influencers at the point of sale.

“Brick-and-mortar is very important for us, especially in a country like India where touch, feel and demonstration still play a big role in purchase decisions”

Are B2C sales an important revenue point for you?

Yes, B2C is a growing and important part of our revenue mix. Our own D2C site and marketplace presence give us direct consumer insight – what they search for, what they compare, and how their preferences are evolving. That data feeds back into our buying decisions and even into product and brand selection.

Although in terms of production volume, especially for the Lubiana brand, the HoReCa sector remains the dominant pillar, we treat the retail sector as key to building brand value and emotional capital. At Polska Grupa Porcelanowa, we believe these two worlds do not compete with each other but live in symbiosis. Retail is our ‘window to the world’ and our direct dialogue with consumers. While HoReCa ensures production stability and volume, it is the retail market that builds the legend of brands such as Ćmielów, Chodzież and Lubiana. The retail sector also allows us to be more daring in our designs. This is where we test avant-garde collections (e.g. Ćmielów Design Studio), which, if they catch on, often evolve into a more practical form for a wider audience or the catering industry. Without a strong presence in retail, we would become an anonymous manufacturer of ‘white plates’.

How important are brick-and-mortar sales to your business?

In the age of digitalisation, paradoxically, the importance of physical contact with the product is growing, especially in the premium segment. Brick-and-mortar sales are extremely important to us because porcelain is a highly sensory product. Customers need to feel its weight or lightness, the smoothness of the glaze, see the exact colours of the decoration and how light penetrates the walls of the cup. Even the best photo in an online shop cannot convey this. We treat brick-and-mortar stores and cooperation with department stores not only as points of sale, but as showrooms of experiences. We see a clear trend towards ROPO (research online, purchase offline) and its reverse. That is why we invest in a presence in prestigious locations where porcelain is presented in a lifestyle context. A a brick-and-mortar shop is a place where customers learn about quality – there they find out why it is worth paying for a product that is ‘Made in Poland’.

Export versus import; the Japanese tableware sector

Beautiful Japan, a land rich in heritage, culture and ceremony, with an iconic connection to tableware production. Contributing columnist Eugene Gerden looks at the Japanese tableware market where local growth is relatively stagnant contrasting with a positive export market…

About the author

Eugene Gerden is an international freelance writer, who specialises in covering the global tableware and furniture sector. He works for several industry titles and can be reached at gerden.eug@gmail.com

The Japanese tableware sector is slowly growing thanks to maintaining stable demand for Japanese tableware in both domestic and export markets, with existing potential for further growth.

In general, Japan has a rich tradition of tableware production, however in recent years the industry has faced serious challenges, which led to a significant slowdown of its growth rates.

While the Japanese tableware sector is a mature, well-developed market, ever growing imports of cheap tableware from China and other Asian nations have created serious problems for local producers in recent years.

According to data from Sudip Saha, a senior analyst at the international research agency Future Market Insights, imports are estimated at about 40 per cent of the overall value of the market, particularly in the segment of ceramic and glass tableware sold in Japan.

According to experts, in general the market remains highly saturated, as households own more crockery than they use. One of the reasons for this is the current demographic situation in Japan where the population is shrinking and ageing, household formation is slow, and durable goods are kept

for long periods. As a rule, older, smaller households tend to avoid large tableware sets and stretch replacement cycles, which leads to the overall stagnation of the market and its small growth rates.

As the domestic demand remains relatively low, Japanese tableware manufacturers are pinning their hopes on the increase of exports of their products.

According to official statistics of the Japanese ministry of economy, trade and industry, the annual export of Japanese ceramic tableware is estimated in the tens of millions of dollars a year, with destinations such as the United States, China and Hong Kong.

A significant portion of Japanese designer tableware is supplied to overseas design shops and museums. The bulk of exports account for lifestyle, hospitality and gift segments, with the biggest demand being observed for premium, culturally branded Japanese wares.

Main players and key obstacles to more active growth

In terms of structure of the sector, currently the industry consists of regional ceramic clusters such as Mino in Gifu, Arita and Imari in Saga, Hasami in Nagasaki, Seto in Aichi, Mashiko in Tochigi, Kutani in Ishikawa and

Shigaraki in Shiga. These areas have a long history in pottery and porcelain and consist of numerous small firms and companies, often family run, which supply both their own branded ware and unbranded product to trading houses and retailers across the country, and for exports.

Among the leading porcelain companies are groups such as Morimura and Noritake, Narumi, Nikko and others.

Still, a few problems prevent a more active growth of the industry. One of the biggest issues involves the ever-growing import of lowcost ceramic and glass tableware from China, as well as some other Asian countries. In recent years these imports have captured a large share of the mass segment, forcing Japanese producers either to compete on price (which is difficult given high domestic labour and energy costs) or to focus on the development in smaller high-end niches.

So far, cheap imports have already forced many of leading local producers to conduct massive staff reductions to stay afloat.

Analysts also believe the current demographic problems in Japan put a serious pressure on the country’s tableware sector. As of now, a shrinking, ageing local population has already resulted in serious labour shortages in the industry, while surveys show around two thirds of companies report business is impacted from lack of workers. The most complex situation is observed in traditional crafts, including ceramics, where some studies show the decline of roughly 6080 per cent in the number of firms, employees and production value since the late 1970s. In addition, there is also a lack of new skilled workers in the industry amid the

ongoing retirement of old staff.

In the meantime, ever-changing domestic consumption habits puts further pressure on the industry. As more Japanese citizens prefer smaller, western style apartments with open kitchens instead of larger, traditional rooms (with the desire to keep their homes tidy with as few things as possible to create a simple, modern design) this leads to the decline of the overall market, primarily in volume terms. Moreover, in recent years, many of local customers have switched their attention to a small number of design pieces instead of a full tableware sets and large bulk purchases.

At present, the industry primarily consists of smaller

Many of them also pay insufficient attention to the promotion of their products in foreign markets. In general, despite

“We plan to broaden our presence in Europe and strengthen partnerships with retailers, cultural institutions, and hospitality clients. One major step in this direction will be our participation in Ambiente 2026, where we aim to showcase a curated selection of Japanese tableware, lacquerware, metalwork, and contemporary craft art. Our longterm goal is to serve as a bridge between Japanese artisans and international markets while preserving the integrity and identity of each craft tradition,”

Timothy Hsu, Musubi Lab, Inc

companies, which prefer to work with wholesalers and regional cooperatives rather than building their own direct to consumer brands or systematic export channels.

their high level of quality and good image, a lack of marketing campaigns and promotions has seriously limited their higher sales in the global market.

Still, there is a possibility that such a situation will change, as many leading local players have already begun to pay more attention to the active promotion of their products abroad.

Timothy Hsu, an official spokesman of Musubi Lab, Inc., one of Japan’s leading tableware producers in an exclusive interview talked about the ongoing expansion of the company’s presence in both domestic and foreign markets.

“We plan to broaden our presence in Europe and strengthen

partnerships with retailers, cultural institutions, and hospitality clients. One major step in this direction will be our participation in Ambiente 2026, where we aim to showcase a curated selection of Japanese tableware, lacquerware, metalwork, and contemporary craft art.

“Our long-term goal is to serve as a bridge between Japanese artisans and international markets while preserving the integrity and identity of each craft tradition,” he pointed out.

He added across Japanese craftsmen continue to produce world-class tableware, yet the number of active artisans is gradually declining due to aging populations and difficulties in training successors.

“Some regions have strong apprenticeship programs, while others face serious challenges in preserving irreplaceable techniques,” he added.

In regard to the domestic market, according to Timothy Hsu and industry analysts, the domestic demand for high-quality tableware has been supported by inbound tourism.

“Since opening our retail presence in Tokyo, we have seen growing interest from international visitors seeking authentic Japanese tableware. However, the strongest growth continues to come from overseas markets.

“Our global e-commerce platform and partnerships with HoReCa clients — particularly Michelin-starred restaurants, boutique hotels, and design-driven hospitality groups — have seen notable expansion the past few years. This international demand is expected to continue rising in 2026, driven by increased appreciation for artisanal products, sustainable production, and culturally rooted design,” Hsu said.

“Our

philosophy is to continue delivering quality”

Despite a challenging year, Guido Bormioli head of marketing and communication with the Cerve Group tells us their brands such as Vidivi, Cerve and Anima are continuing to innovate and deliver…

How has the past year been for the Vidivi and Cerve brands?

The past year has certainly been challenging. Despite a strong desire to invest, innovate and stay competitive, we suffered in terms of sales volumes.

Producing in Italy while targeting large volumes has become increasingly difficult: it requires extremely high levels of efficiency to keep costs under control. We have remained absolutely committed to maintaining our quality, which continues to be

range that is both produced and decorated entirely within the Cerve Group. The pieces are then brush-decorated using automated technology: this is one of our core strengths, as we are specialists in automated brushing with patented organic colours.

Another key innovation is the gold thread applied to the Essenze collection. We apply gold and platinum rims to the edges of glasses and plates, and particularly the Murano collection, with its thicker rims, lends itself beautifully to this technique. The result

Vidivi recently launched Elisir –what can you tell us about that and what has reception been like for the series?

Elisir fully represents the synergy between Vidivi and Cerve. It is a Vidivi glass, produced and decorated entirely within the Cerve Group and then brush-finished using our patented organic colours. Our decorations are highly resistant to dishwasher cycles, making them perfect also for the HoReCa market, where

recognised and appreciated by the market. However, this year we did not produce the volumes that a structure like ours is accustomed to, and as a result we came under significant strain.

Tell us about some of the innovation coming from your brands at the moment.

We strongly believe in our most recent creations. One of the most important is Elisir, a Vidivi glass

is a decoration that is rich and elegant at the same time.

Our philosophy is to continue delivering quality and responding precisely to customer requests.

One of the things I’ve noticed is Vidivi does coloured glassware really well – would you consider it a speciality of the brand?

Absolutely. It is the result of the close collaboration between Cerve and Vidivi. Our glass is extremely resistant and exceptionally brilliant, thanks to a specific composition that is also used for high-end automotive headlights and lenses. These applications require the glass to maintain clarity, strength and performance over time.

Another very important

glasses are washed repeatedly. We strongly believe in this project, and the reception so far has been very encouraging, especially from customers

“Our export turnover exceeds our domestic sales, so Ambiente is an essential reference point for us and a fundamental moment in the year”

We will never compromise on the quality that comes from more than 70 years of experience, dating back to when the Bormioli family founded what is still today a global market glass decoration leader.

looking for distinctive, highquality coloured glassware with a refined decorative touch.

characteristic is that our glass does not turn opaque, even after prolonged use, which is a crucial quality factor for glassware.

Talk to us a little about glassware trends – what do you seeing emerging?

What we are seeing is a return to a more classic style, but reinterpreted with distinctive details that make it contemporary. There is a clear desire for elegance combined with modern minimalism – timeless shapes enhanced by subtle decorative elements or refined finishes. www.cerve.it

See the Cerve Group at Ambiente Hall 12.0, C75

How would you sum up 2025 for the Bornego Group and its brands? 2025 was a strong and positive year for the Bornego Group and our brands. As a group, we have become closer and our brands (Royal Boch, Royal Goedewaagen, Friesland Porzellan, Walküre and Dijkstra Friese Kleiwarenfabriek) are even more closely linked. This growing sense of unity is becoming increasingly visible, both within the group and to the market. What we clearly see is that craftsmanship and brands with a strong tradition are becoming increasingly valuable. There is a growing appreciation for authenticity, quality and stories rooted in tradition, and that directly plays to the strengths of our portfolio. Our brands represent centuries-old know-how, and that resonates more than ever with customers and partners.

An important milestone in 2025 was the expansion of our production capacity, particularly with the addition of Nova Keramiek in July. This has significantly broadened our production capabilities and increased our flexibility, enabling us to respond more quickly and creatively to market

Did you know?

demand while keeping production close to our core values. In addition, Dijkstra Friese Kleiwarenfabriek is proud to announce that two renowned Frisian tile manufacturers have recently joined the company: Het Tegelboertje from Franeker and Friese Tegel from Weidum. We have achieved very solid commercial performance. Our classic collections continue to develop well, supported by a healthy and wellmanaged inventory position. At the same time, we are actively investing in the development of new series and products, many of which are produced in our own factories. This combination of strong classics and carefully developed new designs has given us a stable foundation and momentum for future growth.

We’d like to learn more about your plans for Walküre. It’s such an iconic brand in the hospitality sphere – how do you plan to develop it?

Walküre is a truly iconic brand in the hospitality sector, and our focus is on strengthening it through availability,

From rebuilding the factory to rebuilding the brand, Maarten Lohuis, manager projects & new business at Bornego Group talks Tableware International through the incredible resilience of Friesland Porzellan, whose factory went up in flames in 2023. We also shine a light on the iconic Walküre brand and discuss the Bornego Group’s vision for its future…

“The fire in 2023 had a major impact on our company… although the event was devastating, it ultimately made us more resilient”

From spring 2026, the Walküre brand’s successful NYNY and Alta series will be available in 12 colours.

“We are actively positioning Friesland Porzellan as a brand in its own right, not just as a factory”

choice and reliability. From spring 2026, our successful NYNY and Alta series will be available in 12 colours, in addition to white, for the most important high-turnover items. We have also significantly improved our stock position, resulting in reliable and competitive delivery times. This is an essential factor for partners in the hospitality industry. At the same time,

we are re-developing successful series in the past such as Rossi and Classic, with the ambition to have these available from stock by 2026.

Your German factory the Friesland Porzellan factory, which produces the Walküre brand, endured a traumatic fire in 2023 – what impact did that have?

“Walküre is a truly iconic brand in the hospitality sector, and our focus is on strengthening it through availability, choice and reliability”

Actively looking for agents

The Bornego Group is actively seeking the right people to strengthen its teams, as well as distributors and agents around the world who share its values and ambitions.

The fire in 2023 had a major impact on our company. Immediately after the fire, all production at our factory in Varel (Germany) came to a complete standstill, which was of course a very difficult and emotional moment for everyone involved.

Thanks to the strong support of our partners, we were able to restart production within a relatively short period of time, enabling us to continue supplying our customers. Since then, we have worked intensively to bring more and more items back into production and on the market.

Although the event was devastating, it ultimately made us more resilient. Thanks to the dedication of our teams and the support of our partners, we have come back stronger than ever, and we are extremely grateful for the trust and cooperation that made this possible.

What are your plans to rebuild and move on from that event?

Our focus is primarily on rebuilding and looking ahead. Today, our classic collections are once again available from stock, which gives our customers stability and confidence.

At the same time, we are actively positioning Friesland Porzellan as

Fact

a brand in its own right, not just as a factory. Together with European partners, we have developed new collections that reflect this ambition. These new series will be introduced at Ambiente 2026 and represent an important step forward after the events of 2023.

Finally, what are your hopes for the Bornego Group?

Looking ahead, we hope to continue building a strong and sustainable future for the Bornego Group. We are actively seeking the right people to strengthen our teams, as well as distributors and agents around the world who share our values and ambitions. We are convinced the choices we make today will prepare us well for the future and the developments that lie ahead. At the same time, we are open to further growth, including the possibility of adding new brands to the group if they fit our vision.

Ultimately, our strategy is clear: to preserve our craftsmanship and heritage while growing into a leading European manufacturer and market leader in ceramics and clay products.

The Bornego Group will be at Ambiente. Find them in Hall 12.1, C26 and visit www.bornegogroup.com.

The Bornego Group now has several brands under its remit from Royal Boch, Royal Goedewaagen, Friesland Porzellan, Walküre and Dijkstra Friese Kleiwarenfabriek to the recently acquired Nova Keramiek.

Product Collection Focus

Stölzle Lausitz has done what it does best – launch a stellar new barware series consisting of seven perfectly formed pieces capturing the spirit of the collection’s namesake; Berlin…

the spirit of Berlin!

With the new Berlin bar glass collection, Stölzle Lausitz brings the spirit of the 1920s back to life – a time when the German capital became a magnet for art, freedom, and joie de vivre. The series combines nostalgic elegance with modern clarity, inspired by an era in which Berlin’s smoky taverns, legendary bars, and bustling ballrooms transformed the city into one of the world’s most exciting metropolises.

The seven glass designs intentionally rely on clean, straight lines paired with a wave-like relief structure reminiscent of early 20thcentury aesthetics. Fine grooves give the pieces a sense of movement – a nod to Shimmy, Charleston, Swing, and the pulsating nightlife of the 1920s.

Rebellious yet elegant, they elevate classic cocktails, long drinks, and contemporary creations into a stylish experience.

“With the Berlin collection, we wanted to reinterpret typical shapes from the 1920s – elegant, clear, almost reminiscent of early Art Déco – and translate them into a modern context. Nostalgia meets the present, turning each drink into a moment where past and present flow together,” CEO Leopold Grupp explains.

“The star engraved in the base of the cocktail and balloon glasses was essential to me. It evokes the Große Stern in Berlin’s Tiergarten, where roads radiate outwards like spokes, symbolising orientation and movement –like a compass through time. Together with the relief-like lines on the glass, it creates a tactile experience: beneath your fingers, you feel the subtle grooves that give each piece rhythm and character. At the same time, the design had to remain modern, clear, and contemporary – a bridge between past and present.”

Berlin consists of a cocktail glass, balloon glass, highball, longdrink, whisky DOf, whiskey tumbler and universal glass.

SACMI heads to Ceramitec

Did you know?

SACMI will be at Ceramitec 2026 (Hall A6, stand 301-502A).

SACMI is set to play a pivotal role at Ceramitec 2026 (Messe München, March 24-26) with first-rate technologies for the production of tableware and sanitaryware.

Renowned for its technological leadership in several fields, the SACMI range continues to evolve through ongoing innovation in the areas of automation, sustainability and efficiency.

Expanding technological offering with Lippert

The SACMI network of tableware and sanitaryware companies - SAMA, Riedhammer, Gaiotto, SACMI Imolawill again play a key role at Ceramitec with a comprehensive range of technologies and services designed to meet every need.

One of the highlights of 2025 was the completion of the offering that stemmed from Lippert joining the SACMI family. Merging this German company’s technical expertise, experience and reputation into SAMA provided an opportunity to expand the technology available to the tableware sector, with new highlevel projects intended for both European and global markets.

Riedhammer: towards a zero-emissions factory

The world’s leading designer of kilns for tableware, sanitaryware and technical ceramics, Riedhammer will be at Ceramitec with a full range of high-efficiency kilns with low CO₂ emissions. With Riedhammer, rethinking thermal processes to obtain a zero-emissions factory is not just achievable: it’s already a reality, thanks to a range of digital hydrogen-ready kilns and a new 100 per cent electric roller kiln.

Automation and robotic finishing

At every stage of production - from casting to glazing and finishing - robots play an increasingly crucial role on SACMI tableware and sanitaryware lines. With the latest ‘in series’ robots, controlled by a single software program, white finishing is one of the cornerstones of the Gaiotto range, confirming its leading role in the transition to a clean, fully automated factory.

INGER MEHLUM CERAMICS

Inger Mehlum is Norwegian, educated and living in Denmark, where she has had her ceramic workshop since 1989.

Inger Mehlum works with both unique and ceramics for everyday use and enjoyment.

The choice of materials ranges widely from coarse stoneware clay to the finest porcelain clay. Whether it is larger unique jars or a cup for morning coffee, Inger Mehlum strives for a light, simple and a stylish expression.

With the stacking set STAK, Inger has played with colors and function, where the user is free to play further by stacking the set in different ways with different color combinations.

STAK is a simple Nordic design with a practical wooden tray, which emphasizes the function

Crafted at scale: rethinking hand-decorated glass in global manufacturing

Decorium tell us about their approach to hand-decorating glass and why it remains a vital piece of the glassware puzzle

For many years, hand-decorated glass was associated almost exclusively with small workshops, limited quantities and highly bespoke production. While this perception highlights the value of craftsmanship, it no longer reflects the realities of today’s global manufacturing environment. As international brands seek products that combine character with consistency, the concept of hand decoration is being redefined—not replaced, but scaled.

The future of hand-decorated glass lies in balance. On one side is the human hand, bringing sensitivity, experience and visual nuance. On the other is the demand for reliability: repeatable quality, production continuity and predictable delivery. Increasingly, these two dimensions are no longer seen as opposites, but as complementary forces.

Rethinking the idea of “handmade” at scale does not mean removing the artisan from the process. It means building production structures that protect craftsmanship rather than dilute it. Clear decorative standards, trained teams and well-defined workflows allow hand-applied techniques to retain their expressive quality while meeting the expectations of largevolume orders.

One of the most critical challenges in large-volume hand-decorated production is

maintaining quality consistency over time. When production extends across thousands of pieces, small deviations can have a significant impact. Managing this requires more than final inspection; it requires deep technical knowledge of each decorative process, from development to execution.

For global brands, reliability today extends beyond capacity or pricing.

spraying, hand-finishing and rim applications—within an integrated production environment, consistency and flexibility are achieved simultaneously.

Importantly, scaling hand decoration does not lead to uniformity. On the contrary, it allows brands to create collections with depth, variation and a coherent visual language. Clear and

The future of hand-decorated glass lies in balance. On one side is the human hand, bringing sensitivity, experience and visual nuance. On the other is the demand for reliability: repeatable quality, production continuity and predictable delivery

Trust has become a defining factor. Brands need manufacturing partners who can translate creative concepts into repeatable processes, maintain decorative integrity across multiple deliveries, and adapt to changing volumes without sacrificing standards.

At Decorium, hand-decorated glass has long been approached with this perspective. Decades of experience in decorative glass manufacturing have shaped a production model where craftsmanship and scalability coexist. By developing and applying multiple decorative techniques— such as cutting, pantograph work,

coloured glass, layered finishes and refined details can all be realised within the same manufacturing framework, provided the processes are carefully managed.

Looking ahead, the relevance of hand-decorated glass will continue to grow. As consumers seek authenticity and emotional connection, products that visibly carry the human touch gain value—even at scale. The future of global manufacturing lies not in choosing between handmade and industrial production, but in redefining how the two can support each other.

www.mydecorium.com

the table is yours

Interview Crystalex

Experience the taste of glassware

As Crystalex prepare for Ambiente 2026, head of marketing Michaela Šlegr explains Taste of Glassware; an experiential concept where visitors to the brand’s stand can truly embrace all the glassmaker has to offer…

Michaela, Crystalex has a very innovative theme for this year’s Ambiente – Taste of Glassware –tell us more about the concept. Taste of Glassware is simple! Our glass belongs on every table – from family dinners and festive banquets to life’s most memorable occasions. This guiding motto shapes our

long, lavishly set table. Each series has its place, its mood, its meaning. Visitors can experience the diversity of forms, smooth and decorated designs, and emotions brought together in the shared context of everyday life and festive occasions. A tasting – not of wine, but of aesthetics. A glass experience.

“For Crystalex, glass is more than tableware – it is atmosphere, ritual, and experience”

presentation at Ambiente 2026. Because glass is more than functional tableware – it is an experience, a ritual, part of the atmosphere. It is not just an exhibition. It is a moment when you can touch the shape, see the light, and taste the glass.

This year, we chose to showcase our best-selling and most beautiful collections in a new way: on one

Tell us more about the Chromatic Cloud! Has Crystalex collaborated on a piece like this before? How did the idea come about?

The centerpiece of our booth is the Chromatic Cloud – a suspended lighting sculpture made from Crystalex glass, decorated with advanced metal-coating technology. This unique object was created

Did you know?

in collaboration with SansSouci, specialists in lighting design and innovative nano coating. The installation not only emphasises the poetry and elegance of glass but also demonstrates its possibilities beyond the table – in space, architecture, and interior design. It shows that glass can be functional, but also profoundly aesthetic and spatially active. Some of our customers are interested in metalcoated decoration, which is not part of Crystalex’s own production expertise. SansSouci, however, are masters of this technique. As a producer of lighting sculptures, they can use our glass as components for their fixtures. This mutual collaboration is therefore natural – and even more meaningful because both companies are rooted in the same region, Crystal Valley, where glass is truly born from the heart.

How has the past year been for the glass making industry?

The Crystalex stand (Hall 12.1, D05) will be dominated by a stunning centrepiece called Chromatic Cloud – a suspended lighting sculpture made from Crystalex glass, decorated with advanced metal-coating technology. This unique object was created in collaboration with SansSouci, specialists in lighting design and innovative nano coating. “The installation not only emphasises the poetry and elegance of glass but also demonstrates its possibilities beyond the table –in space, architecture, and interior design,” Michaela explains.

The past year has been very challenging for the glassmaking industry, and overall the conditions were difficult. We believe the key to navigating such times lies in focusing strategically, offering something unique that others do not, and maintaining close dialogue with customers to truly understand their needs. Even in a tough environment, this approach helps us identify opportunities and remain resilient.

How is the retail side of your business doing?

It has been a year since we opened our flagship store in Prague. We are committed to nurturing our brand and offering only the very best of the best. In addition, we own the Egermann brand, which allows us to serve a more demanding clientele. With Egermann and Crystalex decorations, we plan to participate next year in other trade fairs focused specifically on retail.

Finally, what more can we expect to see from Crystalex in 2026 and beyond? You will see exciting new colours featured in our glass installation, as well as additional vintage Nick&Nora shapes that we have introduced into the HoReCa segment. We are also preparing new optical effects on glass and a beautiful collection called Secret Pâtisserie – inviting you to discover what lies hidden beneath the cloche.

Inspiration comes from Chicago

From Lenox to Lifetime Brands to Riedel, Chicago’s Inspired Home Show 2026 does, indeed, promise to inspire. With a host of US and international brands, the event takes place March 10-12 at Chicago’s McCormick Place. With more than 2,000 brands and 300,000 products, the Show – which is organised annually by the International Housewares Association (IHA) – is North America’s largest event for the home and housewares industry.

One of the big draws of this event is the types of retailers it attracts with buyers from US stores such as Nordstrom, Costco, Macys, Kohls, Crate & Barrel, Amazon and more, expected at the event. There is an international buying contingent also expected with

Dunelm and Robert Dyas amongst the UK names at the event, along with QVC and Rewe Germany and many more.

“Especially in today’s competitive market, The Show is a critical platform for discovering innovative new items, building partnerships and getting ahead of the curve,” said IHA president & CEO Derek Miller. “It’s an incredible way to

Sourcing. It will also feature attractions including the Debut incubator, Global Design Points pavilions from Brazil, Hong Kong, Indonesia and Turkey, and the Inventors Corner.

New to the 2026 Show will be the SPLiCE Licensing Hub – a destination produced in partnership with the Society of Product Licensors Committed

“The show is a critical platform for discovering innovative new items, building partnerships and getting ahead of the curve,”

IHA president & CEO Derek Miller

meet so many people and discover so many opportunities all under one roof and in just three days.”

IN NUMBERS

The Inspired Home Show 2026 will include four expos in two halls located conveniently across the Grand Concourse from each other: Clean + Contain, Dine + Décor, Wired + Well, and International

to Excellence – that will connect retailers and product suppliers with brands interested in licensing deals.

In addition, both the Pet Products Pavilion and the Candle Pavilion, which made their debuts at the 2025 Show, will return. Other popular destinations include the Pantone ColorWatch Display, New As

Product Showcases, and galleries featuring finalists and winners of IHA’s Global Innovation Awards (gia) in Product, Retail and Student Design. This year, 2026, will mark the first year of the show’s new Tuesday –Thursday day pattern. Following extensive feedback, IHA determined that the shift to midweek best aligns the show with the industry’s evolving needs and expectations.

For more information or to register, visit TheInspiredHomeShow.com.