KBzine: the original kitchen and bathroom industry e-news - since 2002
28th January 2021

We strongly recommend viewing KBzine full size in your web browser. Click our masthead above to visit our website version.

John Swain retires from Franke after 25 years' service

After 25 years of loyal service, John Swain, product manager at Franke UK, has announced his retirement.

John joined Franke in July 1987. He was recruited by Duncan Marr, who retired as managing director early last year, and who exclusively introduced the Franke brand to the UK - famously starting the business in his garage.

During his career with Franke, John developed the marketing plan for the Franke brand which contributed to its strong position in the UK market. By focusing on supplier relationships and new product development, he delivered consistently successful results, including most recently the launch of the 3-in-1 Minerva range of boiling water taps.

With an eye on his retirement, John has worked alongside his successor Steve Rutter, who joined as marketing operations manager in July 2012, sharing his expansive knowledge and facilitating Steve's smooth integration into the company.

John is a well-regarded figure in the industry, liked for his humour and highly respected for his wealth of market and product knowledge. He can be rightly regarded as a doyen of the kitchen industry, being a popular figure at events and exhibitions.

Says Tracey Bamber, managing director of Franke UK:

"John has given outstanding service to the Franke business, building it into the highly recognised and successful brand it is today. I have been grateful for John's enormous help during my steep learning curve over the past year and will miss his insight and experience. Nevertheless, his retirement is well earned and everyone here and throughout the Group wishes him the very best."

T: 0161 436 6280
W: www.franke.co.uk

29th May 2013