Wirtschaftsforum: How is the company structured today and what distinguishes it?

Oliver Barth: We are part of the Culinoma group, which provides us with a stable base, but operate as an independent brand with currently 38 locations in Germany. Our own granite factory is a real unique selling point – since 2018 we have invested heavily here and are able to offer not only granite, but also quartz, marble, ceramics, and other materials. Our kitchens stand for design, aesthetics, and emotions. With just under 200 employees and a significant sales figure, we focus on efficiency and quality. Ultimately, however, it is the people who make the difference: Our employees bring the so-called Marquardt DNA with them – they stand for straightforwardness, transparency, and passion. These values are also reflected in our clear communication with the customers, which we involve from the beginning.

Wirtschaftsforum: What current challenges do you see for your company?

Oliver Barth: The biggest challenges are cost explosion, shortage of skilled workers, and interest rate development. These issues affect not only us but the entire industry. At the same time, we view such times as an opportunity. We continuously question our processes, automate where it makes sense, and yet remain true to our principles. The period of supply shortages was particularly challenging, but we also mastered that. Our customers appreciate that we communicate transparently and always rely on reliability – whether it’s with prices or quality. Moreover, we are convinced that straightforwardness and adaptability are crucial for long-term success.

Wirtschaftsforum: How do you use digitalization and AI to future-proof your company?

Oliver Barth: Digitalization is a crucial driver for us. We have introduced a new inventory management system that has significantly improved our internal processes. Artificial intelligence offers us exciting opportunities, such as in the analysis of customer data or in marketing strategies. In the long term, we want to use AI to make the planning process even more intuitive for our customers and to relieve our employees. However, the human aspect always remains central – technology is a tool for us, not a substitute solution. At the same time, we see in AI the opportunity to further distinguish ourselves from competitors.

Wirtschaftsforum: What role do expansion and marketing strategies play in your future planning?

Oliver Barth: Our vision is clear: We want to continue expanding in Germany. There are still many attractive areas that we would like to develop, and we rely on franchise partners to achieve this goal. Our new flagship in Stuttgart will set standards – both visually and technologically. Marketing plays a central role in our strategy: Traditional fairs are less relevant for us, we instead focus on digital channels to specifically target our audiences. Our goal is not just to inform, but to excite. It is especially important to us to reach customers on an emotional level and to retain them in the long term.

Wirtschaftsforum: What is your long-term vision for the company and what goals would you like to achieve in the coming years?

Oliver Barth: We aim to establish ourselves as a leading provider of premium kitchens in Germany. Our foundation is built on traditional values such as trust and transparency, which we combine with a clear focus on innovation. Our granite works remains a central part of our strategy and enables us to process unique materials. This allows us to create kitchens that impress both in design and quality. At the same time, we are working on making our processes sustainable to meet future requirements. We see times of crisis as opportunities to evolve and explore new avenues. With our franchise model, we also want to give small business owners the opportunity to become part of our success story and continue to grow together with us. Our goal is to set standards in the kitchen industry in the long term, but also to have a positive impact on our customers, employees, and partners.