A glimpse at the Orient: Zanotta opens its monobrand shop in Seoul

A clear indicator of the new prospects in the market

Zanotta is strengthening their presence in international markets and would like to announce their first significant step towards expansion in Asia. The starting point is Seoul, the Non Hyeon-Dong design district, where the grand opening of the 300-m2 Zanotta Shop will be held on October 19th next.

It is typically true that Italian esthetic sensibility, design and the ability to produce are already esteemed in Asian markets; however, the cultural leap in the evolution of local tastes is a relatively recent phenomenon. The confirmation of this condition was enough to signal “the right time” for Zanotta’s new project, which was developed in a short time.

Shinmyoung Industrial Co. Ltd has been selected as a partner because they recognize the value of the Italian brand and is able to expand it thanks to their vast experience in the furnishing sector.

This is how the Zanotta philosophy has developed over their 60-year history. The philosophy that is the blend of styles that see living space animated by design icons along with creative pieces coming from the

work of young designers, launching the challenge of capturing a market far away in appearance.

Zanotta’s Export Manager Marco van Velsen, declares, “Zanotta is a company that has made history, is known worldwide and is particularly rooted in Europe as well as America. In Asia, we had hit-and-miss distribution; we thought that it was necessary to change methods and approaches to this market. Our own “presidio” in a strategic city based on finding a partner that shared our philosophy and vision. Seoul is one of

these cities, a true nerve center for furnishings and design to be precise. Important events and activities that resonate worldwide, many of which we will participate in, for example: Creative Garden managed by Alessandro Mendini at the end of September.”

Eleonora Zanotta, our President and Artistic Director, says, “We have embarked on a challenging course that reflects the company’s renewed commitment to face the needs of global markets. We are much more than satisfied with the results that the change in image has brought to the strengthening of various geographic areas. In Asia we expect to double our sales.” Moreover, “At Zanotta Shop in Seoul, iconic pieces and the most recent pieces presented at Salone del Mobile will be displayed side by side. The masters Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, Carlo Mollino and Alessandro Mendini are the indisputable “stars”; however, contemporary designers, such as Damian Williamson who has designed our William and Botero sofas, and

Frank Rettenbacher who has designed our new June chair and Santiago table, will also create a lot of interest. …confirmation of the perfect harmony of the two spirits of our company.”

van Velsen continues, “Seoul signifies we have reached our first goal. In autumn, we hope to announce the grand opening of other flagship stores. Obviously, this is thanks to local partners who are professionals, solid and with whom we have established an empathetic relationship.”

Zanotta Shop at 66-11, Nonhyun-Dong, Gangnam-Gu will be a reference point for both consumers and interior designers.