As an architectural and technical lighting manufacturer, the company prides itself on its understanding of design and the language of architects. Its products are aimed at the higher end of the market and are created to either integrate stylishly into a building or to stand out as a feature of the environment. “Light is the basic cornerstone of what life is about,” says Bart Maeyens, General Manager of Modular Lighting Instruments. “The current economy would not be what it is without artificial light, but with the impact on emotional and social well-being and all the unconscious processes we go through, you cannot help but have a passion for light.”
The company designs and manufactures cutting-edge lighting solutions with a focus on four market sectors: residential, hospitality, office and retail. Some products are suitable for all four segments, although the technology behind them may differ depending on the application. In some instances, regulations dictate specific technical requirements within a particular sector. A key feature which spans the range is the flexible modular system, which ensures that a perfect solution can be found for every situation. Products are available as standard designs, although approximately 30% of orders are customized lighting.
Whether off-the-shelf or bespoke products are required, Modular Lighting Instruments works closely with architects and designers to ensure that the end result is both aesthetically captivating and technically perfect. Irrespective of where the lighting is used, some things are non-negotiable: high quality, flexibility, leading-edge technology and extraordinary design.
Modular Lighting Instruments was founded in 1980 as a manufacturer of halogen lighting. It quickly found its niche, combining innovative technology with spectacular design at a time when lighting products were functional rather than attractive. As a result, the company established a reputation for flexible, modular concepts that were both architecturally and technologically outstanding. In the 1990s the company continued to enhance its brand as a pioneer of bold design. The retirement of the founder and subsequent sale of the company to private equity ensured that it had the capital to grow, and in 2006 it was bought by the Royal Philips Group, which provided access to the newest developments of a leading market innovator. Another landmark was reached in 2008 when LED lighting became a leading innovation within the Philips Group, and Modular Lighting Instruments was able to utilize this technology within its creations to remain ahead of the market.
The company headquarters and production facility is based in Roeselare, where all customized products are made. Additionally, it has exclusive partnerships with two manufacturers in Asia and the Czech Republic for the production and pre-assembly of mechanical components. Final assembly is always undertaken in Roeselare to ensure both flexibility and complete control over quality.
Europe is currently the core market, where 75% of products are sold. However, sales outside of Europe are growing, and North America, Australia, Japan and the Middle East are becoming increasingly important. The company boasts a deep understanding of what architects require from a lighting solution and as a result aims to have its products specified on projects from the outset. To this end, the company has its own sales offices and showrooms in Denmark, Stockholm, Amsterdam, Paris, Munich, Zurich and New York. It employs approximately 190 staff, 110 in Roeselare and 80 spread across the other offices.
Turnover in 2014 reached 41 million EUR, which constituted a growth of around 6% on the previous year. In 2015, a turnover of 45 million EUR is anticipated, and the pattern of steady expansion is expected to continue in 2016. This success can be attributed to a number of key factors. “We have a particularly advantageous position in the market as a renowned and trusted provider of unique lighting solutions, supported by our access to the technological advancements within the Philips Group,” explains Mr. Maeyens. “We are continuing our strategy of opening up new markets through geographical expansion, which is boosted by the fact that all four of our target market sectors – office, retail, high-end residential and hospitality – are covered in our products and service range.”
The company is extremely proud of its track record and reputation, and sees this as its distinct advantage over the competition. “The DNA we have built up is special,” states Mr. Maeyens. “Others would like that reputation, but it takes 35 years to achieve. Our product design is so unique that we are recognized by designers and architects.” The name of the company describes its purpose perfectly. ‘Modular’ describes the perfect fit of the products, ‘Lighting‘ stands for state of the art technology, and ‘Instruments’ denotes its purpose as a vital tool for ensuring its clients’ success.
The innovation that Modular Lighting Technology demonstrates in its product design is also reflected in its creative marketing approach. In addition to the inspiring catalogue and website, the company attends trade fairs. Besides showing its products, it tells a complete story at exhibitions such as light + building 2016 in Frankfurt, Architect at work in various locations and the Dutch design week. It also organizes inhouse events to share information, and educate and generally connect with the industry.
Perhaps the most novel approach is its particular use of YouTube, Facebook and Twitter to showcase products and events, and ensure its name remains connected with the concept of innovation and leading edge ideas in the minds of its clients, far beyond the product and lighting.
The company has a clear focus on its strategy for the coming years. “Currently LED is revolutionizing the world of lighting,” concludes Mr. Maeyens. “Conventional lighting sources will disappear from our portfolio. It will all be LED. Integrated, connected systems will become increasingly important, and the fact that Philips is already very much into that technology will give us a significant lift too. Despite all this, we plan to remain true to ourselves, our high-value brand and, most importantly, our partners and customers.” With its flexibility, expertise, understanding of the lighting industry and unique product offering, the value of the Modular Lighting Instruments brand looks set to soar.
The company is extremely proud of its track record and reputation, and sees this as its distinct advantage over the competition. “The DNA we have built up is special,” states Mr. Maeyens. “Others would like that reputation, but it takes 35 years to achieve. Our product design is so unique that we are recognized by designers and architects.” The name of the company describes its purpose perfectly. ‘Modular’ describes the perfect fit of the products, ‘Lighting‘ stands for state of the art technology, and ‘Instruments’ denotes its purpose as a vital tool for ensuring its clients’ success.
The innovation that Modular Lighting Technology demonstrates in its product design is also reflected in its creative marketing approach. In addition to the inspiring catalogue and website, the company attends trade fairs. Besides showing its products, it tells a complete story at exhibitions such as light + building 2016 in Frankfurt, Architect at work in various locations and the Dutch design week. It also organizes inhouse events to share information, and educate and generally connect with the industry.
Perhaps the most novel approach is its particular use of YouTube, Facebook and Twitter to showcase products and events, and ensure its name remains connected with the concept of innovation and leading edge ideas in the minds of its clients, far beyond the product and lighting.
The company has a clear focus on its strategy for the coming years. “Currently LED is revolutionizing the world of lighting,” concludes Mr. Maeyens. “Conventional lighting sources will disappear from our portfolio. It will all be LED. Integrated, connected systems will become increasingly important, and the fact that Philips is already very much into that technology will give us a significant lift too. Despite all this, we plan to remain true to ourselves, our high-value brand and, most importantly, our partners and customers.” With its flexibility, expertise, understanding of the lighting industry and unique product offering, the value of the Modular Lighting Instruments brand looks set to soar.
