Interview: New MD Scott Rotchell outlines Poggenpohl UK’s growth strategy

Scott Rotchell, Poggenpohl UK’s newly appointed MD, talks to Nicola Hanley about his collaborative approach and his plans for sustainable growth.

There aren’t too many roles that Scott Rotchell, Poggenpohl’s new UK MD, hasn’t held within the business. He joined fresh out of university in 2011 as a technical designer in the company’s Wigmore Street Studio and has spent the last 15 years enjoying a variety of positions while rising through the ranks to become sales director in 2024 and, most recently, MD in May this year.

That experience, says Rotchell, makes him uniquely placed to lead Poggenpohl UK moving forward. “I have developed a deep understanding of our business and the roles within it and that helps me lead with empathy and take a collaborative approach because I’ve been in the shoes of a lot of my colleagues.”

While maintaining stability within the team is a key focus during his first few months as MD, Rotchell is keen to start growing the business more strategically. “I think we are underrepresented in certain markets and I think there are some fantastic businesses out there that align with our values and could be really successful with Poggenpohl.”

As well as its 3 directly operated studios, all within London – Wigmore Street, Chelsea and Hampstead – Poggenpohl UK currently works with 10 independent retailers, the latest dealer having opened in June, and at least one other is set to open in the second half of 2026.

“I see significant opportunity in our independent retail partner network. However our approach remains selective rather than volume driven,” Rotchell continues. “We’re focused on strategic locations and partnering with businesses that share our values, our commitment to design excellence and our approach to customer service.”

The aim, says Rotchell, is not to have a studio in every town and to take a considered and sustainable approach to growth. “I think opening 2, 3 or even 4 studios a year would be a reasonable aim for us.”

Ultimately, he’s looking to have around 20 independent retailers on board. “They need to be the 20 right partners. If they are aligned with our values and they offer the same level of service that we look to offer then I think it’s not diluting the market too much but it’s not a fixed number.

“For our own studios, we continue to focus on enhancing the customer experience and this is something I think I can add value to because of my experience actually working in those studios. For us it goes beyond the product itself. Purchasing a kitchen at this level is a significant investment. Customers are buying into a lifestyle, an experience and a feeling as much as a physical product so it’s our responsibility to ensure that every interaction reflects the quality and heritage of the brand.”

While the wider UK market remains challenging, Poggenpohl began 2026 in a strong position. Project values are increasing, particularly at the premium end Rotchell says, but completion times are also going up. “The journey from initial design consultation to installation is often longer than it was a few years ago. Many of the projects we’re delivering were designed and sold early last year and even prior to that, which reflects the considered nature of the investment that clients are making.”

Product wise, the company is currently rolling out the latest evolution of its +MODO kitchen. “It’s  a concept that has been synonymous with Poggenpohl for many years,” Rotchell says. “The latest refinements are exceptional and demonstrate how the concept continues to evolve while remaining true to its original design principles. It gives us a real point of difference in the market.”

Other newcomers to the market include ALVOLO and TAGLIO, which are said to represent a fresh approach to surface design. “They showcase the precision and craftsmanship for which Poggenpohl is renowned and are a perfect example of how innovation remains at the heart of the brand.”

Rotchell is also proactively taking steps to set the business up for future success, investing in Poggenpohl UK’s own studios and increasing its marketing activity. “I believe that in uncertain markets, which we’re undoubtedly in, the businesses that continue to invest are often the ones that are best positioned when confidence returns. All 3 of our own studios will be having refurbishments of some capacity in 2026 and we have a number of retail partners that are equally aligned to that. We have a lot of new and exciting product to put in front of customers and luckily our dealers are going on that journey with us and investing in their studios.”