‘At Kludi, we measure the quality of an innovation by the added value that this innovation brings to users’, explains Sebastian Biener, Sales Director for Germany at Kludi GmbH & Co. KG (www.kludi.com). ‘So we only really call something an innovation when a new product truly helps make life a bit easier, more comfortable or safer for people. Accordingly, when it comes to developing new fittings and showers, we always place the focus on usability.’ Acknowledging its consistent implementation of this approach to innovation, the Sauerland-based fittings specialist was honoured as the ‘Most Innovative Brand of the Year’ in the ‘Sanitary and Air Conditioning’ category in Bonn last Wednesday. This hallmark is awarded every year as part of the ‘Plus X Awards’. Past winners include renowned brands such as Dyson, Panasonic, Opel, Vodafone and Volkswagen, amongst others. Kludi had also received the ‘German Innovation Award 2019’ at the end of May.

“Innovation is all about simplicity”
Founded in 1926, this medium-sized company based in Menden can look back on decades of innovation history. Since the fittings manufacturer has started to keep records, some 170 inventions, nearly 100 patents and more than 1,000 designs have been produced by the in-house Research and Development Department. Kludi’s inven-tions include the ‘s-pointer’, an aerator for washbasin fittings with an adjustable angle that allows you to point the water jet in the right direction, a multi-tap, which makes it possible to connect washing machines and dishwashers to the kitchen mixer as well, and the world’s first hybrid tap for kitchen sinks. In 2019, Kludi has caused a stir both nationally and internationally with the Kludi Cockpit Discovery shower system and its unique operating concept. ‘By reducing operation to the essentials and moving it within users’ vision and reach, we have succeeded in improving the comfort of use for all, regardless of age and physical ability’, explains Sebastian Biener. ‘After all, innovation is all about simplicity as well.’