Italian cooking appliance specialist Bertazzoni has announced that it has established a subsidiary in the UK to support ‘ambitious growth plans’.

Established in Prenton, Wirral, Bertazzoni UK will occupy a 1,600 sq ft premises comprising offices and a showroom, which is set to open in the coming months.

Bertazzoni’s product portfolio includes range cookers, hobs, ovens, extractor hoods, dishwashers and refrigerators. Founded in 1882, the business, based in Guastalla between the provinces of Reggio Emilia and Parma, is run by fifth and sixth generation family members.

Products from the 135-year-old, family-run company have, until now, been available via a distribution deal with Glen Dimplex Home Appliances (GDHA), which has ceased by mutual consent.

UK and Ireland managing director Maurizio Severgnini will lead the UK activities.

Bertazzoni chief executive Paolo Bertazzoni commented: “We are pleased with our official introduction in the UK and have big plans to increase our presence across the country. Having enjoyed a successful partnership with GDHA over the past three years, we felt that the time was right to establish a dedicated operation in the UK.

“We are extremely proud of our heritage, commitment to high level engineering and precise design and very much believe that the joy of cooking can be experienced in any home, regardless of skill level.”

Bertazzoni will be working closely with GDHA over the coming weeks to ensure a smooth transition of operations to maintain consistency for customers and consumers alike.

Paolo added: “Working with passion and attention to detail, as we do very well in our country, and offering cutting-edge technology and beautifully-designed products, leads to prestigious results that are admired all over the world and we look forward to growing our business in the UK in the coming years.”