The separation of millions of Ukrainian families across different countries has become an unfortunate reality during the war. This hardship has also affected the workforces of some UAFM member companies. One such company is Kyiv-based Holz Studio, which is the focus of today’s story.

Denys Tantsurin, the owner of Holz Studio, now resides in the Czech Republic, while his small team continues to manufacture furniture in Kyiv. When the domestic market in Ukraine nearly froze, and the furniture industry urgently sought international markets, Holz Studio managed to adapt more quickly. Naturally, its focus was on the Czech market. Currently, 100% of the furniture produced by the company is for international clients, not only for private individuals but also for retail equipment orders. According to Denys, much of this success was achieved thanks to UAFM’s grant-based consulting support and participation in the Association’s thematic lean tours aimed at sharing experiences.

The company’s key product feature is bespoke kitchens of any complexity, a craft they have been perfecting for over 20 years. Each of the nearly 2,500 kitchens produced to date is unique, without any replication of previous designs. Installation is carried out by a team trained and formed in the Czech Republic. Moreover, the kitchen layout is created by a designer rather than a salesperson, ensuring a seamless design process from concept to completion.

– Is the company capable of scaling to handle comprehensive, turnkey projects?

– We’ve long been able to furnish not only individual kitchens but also entire private residences and commercial spaces. The demand for our services in the Czech Republic is significant, and our Kyiv factory operates at full capacity.

– Do you plan to expand to other European markets neighboring the Czech Republic?

– That would require establishing furniture production abroad. Scaling our Kyiv factory under current conditions, especially given the labor shortage, would be an unfeasible venture.

– What enabled you to quickly build a Czech client base?

– We offered the Czechs our excellent Ukrainian quality and modern finishing options using cutting-edge materials. Czech furniture manufacturing is less advanced than in Ukraine, lagging behind global trends and modern furniture fashion. So, we introduced them to offerings that local companies rarely provide—such as innovative Italian Fenix coatings, ceramic granite, and quartz, instead of the traditional artificial stone that’s becoming outdated. Additionally, we use deeply textured panel materials that are currently in vogue.

Ukraine’s furniture industry is more advanced because the intense competition among numerous manufacturers drives constant innovation and adoption of global trends. This also applies to suppliers of furniture-making materials and components. For example, if I need materials for a countertop, they are delivered from Ukraine faster and at a lower cost than if I ordered them from Germany. Paradoxically, that’s how it works.

– What are your upcoming plans?

– Personally, I want to launch an initiative beneficial to fellow furniture manufacturers.

It’s common practice for suppliers of materials, components, and fittings to host seminars and masterclasses to present their innovations and teach effective use. For example, Blum Academy does this exceptionally well. I aim to establish something similar in an online format, but with a broader and more diverse focus, covering various brands and functionalities.

There are already training programs and even a school under UAFM, but they primarily focus on management and marketing. My initiative would target the technical side, providing education and professional development for skilled workers in the Ukrainian furniture industry. For instance, this could be done in collaboration with Viyar Academy, under its aegis. I’ve already participated as a speaker in several of their sessions. Perhaps UAFM might also be interested in expanding its educational offerings.

– The more useful initiatives our industry implements, the better. We wish you success!