Executive biography

(Fairfield, NJ, May 15, 2007) – Poggenpohl, the world's leading luxury kitchen cabinet manufacturer, today announced the appointment of Theodore Chappell as President of Poggenpohl U.S., Inc.

Mr. Chappell joins Poggenpohl from ERCO Lighting, a subsidiary of ERCO GmbH in Germany, where he served as the high-end lighting company’s U.S. president since 1999. His background includes international sales management roles at Lutron Electronics and global leadership positions, including CEO and founder of his own architectural lighting company. He earned his bachelor’s degree in history from Harvard University.

“Any proactive, thriving company must look ahead to secure its future and success,” stated Elmar Duffner, CEO of Poggenpohl Moebelwerke GmbH in Herford, Germany. “Mr. Chappell’s strong management skills and expertise will play an integral role in the future success of Poggenpohl U.S. In order to continue Poggenpohl’s strong upward development, the appointment also creates a new long-term leadership position which is in line with the strategic direction of the company.”
 
Outgoing U.S. President Lothar Birkenfeld will continue to support Chappell in many aspects and will assume the position of Executive Vice President and Director of Business Development. His new position entails business development in the luxury condominium project division, plus various other responsibilities.
 
“We thank Mr. Birkenfeld for his past 11 years of leadership and vision and are looking forward to his continued loyalty, wisdom and expertise to help to make Poggenpohl even more successful in the United States,” said Duffner.
Poggenpohl is the world’s leading luxury kitchen cabinet brand with nine showrooms and 21 dealers across the United States. Established in 1892, Poggenpohl is the world’s oldest kitchen cabinet brand with worldwide headquarters located in Herford, Germany. The Poggenpohl product line has a strong global presence and is available in more than 60 countries. Poggenpohl is a member of the billion dollar Nobia Group, Europe’s leading kitchen interiors company with more than 20 top brands within manufacturing and retailing. For more information on Poggenpohl’s product line, visit www.poggenpohl-usa.com.

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For more information, please contact Janine Flamer at 973-812-8900 x38 or jflamer@poggenpohlusa.com.