Häfele unveils new hardware to the UK market at KBB Birmingham 2026

Häfele launched 2 new furniture fittings to the UK market at KBB Birmingham, marking the next evolution of its Metalla hinge range alongside the introduction of an exceptionally slim new flap solution. Developed over several years, the Metalla 540 builds on the strong foundations of the existing Metalla 310 hinge, delivering enhanced functionality and premium aesthetics at a competitive price point, for long-lasting performance in modern cabinetry.

It features an integrated on/off soft-close feature and is suitable for doors up to 25mm. With 4 fixing holes in the mounting plate for added stability, a 110-degree opening angle, 12mm drilling depth, and a choice of cruciform or linear mounting plates with eccentric and additional height adjustment, it offers both flexibility and strength. Available in both Nickel and Black Nickel finishes, the Metalla 540 comes with matching cup and arm covers for a refined look. It has been tested to FIRA Level H for intense daily use and is backed by a 25-year warranty.

Häfele also used KBB Birmingham to introduce Free Slim, pictured, which, the brand says, 'redefines flap fittings' with just an 8mm installation width. Part of Häfele’s premium flap fitting range, Free Slim’s innovative U-spring energy storage principle enables a remarkably compact design while maintaining outstanding performance across a broad door weight capacity.

Free Slim can be surface mounted to the inside of the cabinet wall or flush-mounted from the outside for virtually invisible integration. Available initially as a flap version, the range will eventually expand to include bi-fold, up-and-swing and electric-operated options. It also supports push-to-open or soft-close functionality, while retaining features from the existing Free range such as precise multi-stop adjustment, low opening resistance and smooth running characteristics.

Justin Crofts, category manager at Häfele UK, said: “Free Slim is designed for customers who demand slimline aesthetics and maximum creative flexibility, without compromising on strength or reliability. It creates more usable cabinet space while delivering premium performance, for modern, handle-free and design-led cabinetry. Just like our wider fixtures and fittings range, Free Slim is also backed by a 25-year warranty, offering long-lasting quality. We’re incredibly excited to see how the market responds to both Metalla 540 and Free Slim, having already received such a positive reaction at KBB 2026. Both products represent our ongoing commitment to innovation, quality and value, and we’re confident they will make a real impact for our customers.”