Fiskars' new UK showroom and offices officially opened

Local business dignitaries, industry leaders from the home and garden arena, and Fiskars staff witness Mr Huhtaniemi cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the impressive 17th floor of the Mclaren Building in the centre of Birmingham.

John Grayson, Regional Director Fiskars SW Europe, welcomed the guests, who were then addressed by Mr Thomas Enckell, President, Fiskars Europe.

James Wong, the renowned TV presenter, ethnobotanist and best-selling author, is now working with Fiskars and he was also present at the reception, signing autographed copies of his book 'Grow For Flavour'.

Fiskars, who recently celebrated its 365 year legacy, have moved from Nottingham to the Mclaren building, one of Birmingham's tallest structures and situated within Birmingham's vibrant business area.

From a high rise commanding view point, the new offices include specifically designed demonstration areas and interactive product displays to showcase not just Fiskars garden and kitchen tools, but other iconic global brands: Gerber, Iittala and Royal Copenhagen.

Commenting on the move John Grayson said: "This is an exciting time to be part of one of the world's oldest and yet most contemporary companies.

"We have been through an extensive development program in recent years and the opportunity to now re-position Fiskars UK in such an accessible location, within a welcoming and professional office environment that befits the quality of our brands and company values, is just tremendous."

Thomas Enckell, President Business Region Europe, Fiskars, added: "There is more than age and history which makes Fiskars relevant today. We have a sincere aspiration to be even more relevant - socially relevant, relevant as an employer, business partner and to our end consumers.

"Fiskars will be strengthening our marketing position and expanding and the UK is one of the key markets in Europe. The UK is the most garden loving country in the world and London has the most number of garden loving residents in the world. This new facility shows our aspirations. It's a great view, lots of open space and gives us room to grow."

And James Wong said: "One of the problems with horticulture in the UK is that is can be elitist and people feel that they're not allowed into the club. With Fiskars, anyone can join. It's totally democratic.

"We want to revolutionise how we talk to the who public to get a whole new generation outdoors."

W: www.fiskars.com E: ukinfo@fiskars.com