Experienced account managers do not perceive their role as work.

‘A role full of solidarity and team spirit’

After years of working on the supplier side, Ties Vrenssen and Ofra Korthuis made the switch to MHK years ago. What started as a new challenge grew into a warm home. MHK surprised them with its transparency, collegiality, and unique family culture in which everyone can be themselves.

When you talk to Ties Vrenssen and Ofra Korthuis, you don't just hear two account managers from MHK talking. You hear two people who talk about their work with obvious pleasure and pride. In recent years, MHK has clearly become their baby. Both Vrenssen and Korthuis acknowledge this. Korthuis: “Sometimes you work long hours. But if you enjoy what you do, it doesn't always feel like work.” And although both have been in the industry for decades, the organization has still surprised them.

Excelling in transparency

“What really surprised me at first,” says Vrenssen, “is how transparent MHK works. All results are explained and displayed. Fixed formulas are then used. Everyone knows exactly where they stand. That inspires confidence, including among the members.” But what perhaps struck him even more was the human side of the organization. “Within MHK, people really look out for each other. If someone is going through a difficult period in their private life, the organization doesn't just wait around; it proactively takes over their tasks.” Korthuis nods in agreement: “Everyone takes on a piece of the work. You don't have to ask. It just happens automatically. That commitment is typical of MHK.”

An organization that feels like family

“We are a relatively small team,” says Vrenssen. “Everyone does what they are good at and what they feel comfortable with. There are dogs that would rather lie in a basket in front of the fireplace all day, and dogs that would rather stand at the door in the morning to be outside all day and come back inside in the evening when they get hungry; Ofra and I belong to the latter category.’ Korthuis: ’I think that energy and collegiality are extremely important, because you also radiate this to the members.”

A range of services

For Korthuis, MHK's wide range of services was a revelation. “As a pure salesman, it took some getting used to at first. But now I feel right at home here. The relationship with the retailer is different than when you walk in with a product under your arm. The conversations are more open and honest. It feels like you're doing it together and you're a team.” That feeling of togetherness is something both men find typical of MHK. “The members also help each other,” says Korthuis. “During meetings, entrepreneurs share experiences, give each other tips, and help each other with difficult issues. It's nice to be part of that togetherness, because it makes the relationship with retail even closer than I was used to.”

Entrepreneurs remain entrepreneurs

An important point that they both emphasize is that entrepreneurs within MHK always remain themselves. Vrenssen: “Some entrepreneurs are afraid that they will lose their identity if they join an organization such as MHK. But with us, you simply remain your own company. You can use our expertise if you want to, but you determine your own course.”

The kitchen of the future

As experts in the industry, Vrenssen and Korthuis also have their sights set on the future.

Korthuis: “I think that in ten years” time, AI will play a much bigger role, both for consumers and retailers. For us, the strength of retail lies in offering craftsmanship, knowledge, and customization. And perhaps AI will also make the kitchen world more transparent, which is not necessarily a bad thing for the image of the kitchen industry. Our industry deserves a better image.”

Vrenssen adds: “The function of the showroom will change, but it won't disappear. People want to continue to feel and experience. Ultimately, that's what convinces them to choose a particular material. The texture of materials has added value when you feel it, compared to when you read about it. In addition, good reviews will become even more important.” Korthuis nods in agreement: “Even if someone gives you a tip, people still check it online these days. That will only increase.”

A heart for people

After all these years, both look back on their organization with pride. “MHK may have certain conditions before you can become a member,” says Vrenssen, “but that's precisely because we want to maintain high quality. With us, you build your business using building blocks. In addition, we want to show through our openness and transparency that we really offer solid added value for retailers. Everyone is approachable at our organization. No one feels superior. You can choose to kick a ball against a wall on your own. But it's often more fun to play soccer with others in a team. Then you can learn from others, help each other, and achieve more together than you could individually. And you can have more fun doing it. That's how it is at MHK as a member.”