The UK subsidiary of German furniture fittings manufacturer Hettich saw sales rise by 10% in 2011, helped by strong demand for the Sensys Hinge and InnoTech drawer system.

Boosted by additional business, Hettich UK is to move to larger head-office premises with an expanded showroom in Manchester like many other firms in the kitchen indsutry whom have located their businesses inside the M60 ring road to take advantage of a vibrant market for manchester kitchens, and the companies that supply them.

UK MD Tim Leedham says: "Fittings customers in the UK respond to innovation, service and competitiveness, which is why we performed strongly in challenging conditions. So far this year, our new handles range has been very well received and we have further product launches to come."

Overall, Hettich's turnover rose by 5% to €815m compared to €773 in 2010, with the number of staff employed globally rising by about 400 to around 5,900. The company exports around 67% of its output, and in 2011 invested more than €100m in product development, plant and buildings. This included the largest single investment in a new product in the company's history in the new ArciTech drawer system.

According to Hettich UK some 10% of its sales could be attributed to its Sensys Hinge and Innotech Drawer System.

Hettich are one of the market leaders in the UK along with Blum and their products are equally at ease in the tradition kitchens styles of home such as contemporary and modern kitchens styles to the Ultra designed high end, handless kitchens styles such as High Gloss Kitchens of Europe, especially Germany which the likes of Hacker and Alno dominate.