Earlier this year, 1810 Company announced plans to enhance its sales support across the UK, and with the recent addition of two new regional sales managers, the company now boasts “full national coverage." once again to its sales support.
Matt Verrey and Zach Azouaghe have joined the team, marking a significant step in managing director Bernhard van Ommen’s vision to strengthen the on-the-road sales team. This expansion reflects the company’s commitment to improving customer relationships and increasing its reach.
To streamline operations, 1810 Company has divided the UK into North and South regions, with the Thames acting as the natural boundary. Verrey will oversee the North, covering areas from North London to Colchester, Gloucester, and South Wales. Azouaghe will be responsible for the South, covering South London, the South East, and the South West of England.
For Verrey, returning to 1810 feels like coming home. “I’m excited to reconnect with old friends and customers,” he said. “The company has evolved significantly under Bernhard’s leadership, with a fresh product offering and new perspectives that will benefit our customers."
Azouaghe, a former senior kitchen designer, also brings a wealth of experience to the table. “Having worked as a kitchen designer myself, I understand the challenges designers face,” he shared. “I’m looking forward to introducing products like the Zen10 Slim Bridge and HEX to the market and offering support and training.”
With these additions to the team, 1810 promises its retail clients more regular visits from company representatives, helping them stay up to date with the latest innovations. This move is in line with van Ommen’s earlier statements about his plan to strengthen in-person support, reversing the previous decision to scale back.
"I believe that a dedicated, on-the-ground team is crucial for building lasting partnerships with our retailers," said van Ommen. "It's about fostering growth and ensuring that our product innovations reach the market in a way that builds loyalty and drives long-term success for all parties involved." said van Ommen.
Leadership Change at 1810 Company
In February 2025, Bernhard van Ommen was appointed managing director of 1810 Company, succeeding Dean Williams, who stepped down after years of leadership.
Van Ommen has over 20 years of experience in senior leadership roles with premium and luxury brands. Prior to joining 1810, he was managing director of Flokk UK, where he drove revenue growth and successfully integrated multiple brands under a unified strategy.
When the company became part of the SCHOCK Group in March 2022, many believed Gareth Williams’ departure as managing director and move to chairman would be a pivotal moment for the business.
However, it wasn't so much Gareth Williams move to chairman that was pivotal, but his introduction of a significant change to the company’s sales approach, replacing all but two of its on-the-road sales reps with a remote sales team. This was seen as a controversial move for the 1810 Company and a decision that could prove to make or break Gareth Williams tenure at the 1810 Company, alongside the appointment of Dean Williams as the new MD in November 2023.
Some 14 months later, the decision was made to see Gareth Williams and Dean Williams depart and for inward Bernhard van Ommen to take the business forward.
“I’m excited to lead 1810 Company during this critical time,” said van Ommen at the time of his appointment. “With the support of SCHOCK GmbH and a motivated team, we have an incredible opportunity to further strengthen our market position. Our focus remains on delivering high-quality, innovative solutions and ensuring our customers' satisfaction is always at the forefront of everything we do."
Commenting on the change in direction for the 1810 Company's sales strategy van Ommen explained: “Last year, the decision was made to transition to a remote sales team, removing in-person representation, besides three RSM. However, we are looking to change this approach, as I believe in being a close partner to kitchen retailers and having feet on the ground. Building strong, personal relationships is key because, ultimately, people buy from people.”
Looking Ahead
Looking to the future, 1810 Company plans to expand its market presence, boost brand awareness, and streamline operations to create a best-in-class product offering. Known for their premium stainless steel sinks, including the renowned Axix range, as well as stylish taps and accessories, 1810 continues to set the standard for contemporary European design, exceptional materials, and flawless craftsmanship.
Other Kbb News: Most Homeowners renovate their current home than move / Egger UK's First attendance at InstallerSHOW 2025 / New Schuller retailer opens in Congleton / Kbb Birmingham Less Than a Year Away
