GRADE's development from a small component producer into an international furniture manufacturer reflects a wider shift in the European interiors sector, where operational discipline and adaptability increasingly define long-term partnerships. Rather than relying on a single defining moment, the company has built its position through steady expansion and process refinement.
© GRADE
For Volodymyr Liakhovskyi, Commercial Director at GRADE, that progression has been deliberate. 'We started with very simple production, but step by step we built a full-scale operation,' he says. 'It has always been about improving what we do and growing together with our partners.'
'Today, we operate two high-volume production facilities in Kyiv and Poltava, covering around 93,000 square metres in total, including more than 20,000 square metres of dedicated production space. Both factories are equipped with advanced machinery from Biesse, SCM Group, and HOMAG, and our team of 300 skilled professionals produces over one million furniture packages every year.'
From fronts to full production
Founded in 2002, GRADE initially focused on MDF fronts, supporting a Polish production partner. Within a few years, the company transitioned into full-cycle manufacturing, establishing control across the entire production process.
'In the early years, we moved quickly from fronts to complete furniture,' Volodymyr explains. 'We introduced cutting, milling, edging, and packing, so we could manage everything ourselves within the first few years.'
This shift enabled GRADE to enter the kitchen segment and build long-term retail relationships. 'We developed alongside our partners over many years,' he says. 'That kind of cooperation teaches you how to stay stable and how to solve problems together.'
© GRADE
Cosmo Collection (top left), Nocture Collection (bottom left), and Volodymyr Liakhovskyi, CCO
Learning through retail partnerships
International expansion brought new levels of operational complexity, particularly through collaboration with large European retail groups. These partnerships introduced stricter requirements across logistics, packaging, and planning.
'Retail sets very clear rules,' Volodymyr notes. 'You have to meet exact standards for packaging, delivery, and timing. There is no room for inconsistency.'
The experience reshaped GRADE's internal processes. 'We learned how to export properly,' he says. 'They shared their expectations, and we implemented them directly into our production and logistics.'
This extended beyond manufacturing. 'It is not only about producing furniture,' he adds. 'You need to understand how the product moves, how it is handled, and how it reaches the end customer.'
Flexibility in mass production
Operating in the economic to mid-market segment, GRADE positions flexibility as a key strength within a volume-driven model. While production is standardised, adaptation remains possible where it adds value.
'We are a mass-market manufacturer, but we stay flexible,' Volodymyr explains. 'If a customer wants to change colours, materials, or packaging, we are open to that.'
This approach is closely tied to scale. 'If the volumes are sufficient, we are ready to adjust the product,' he says. 'We can develop new packaging or adapt technical details to meet specific requirements.'
At the same time, the company maintains a clear commercial model. 'We work with relatively small margins,' he adds. 'So our focus is always on long-term cooperation based on consistent volumes.'
© GRADE
Communication as a differentiator
While production capabilities underpin GRADE's offer, Volodymyr emphasises that communication ultimately defines successful partnerships in B2B.
'Communication is critical in this business,' he says. 'Speed, clarity, and professionalism make a real difference for our customers.'
The company's internal structure supports this approach, with a strong emphasis on ownership. 'Our managers do not simply process requests,' he explains. 'They manage the whole project, from product development to packaging, visuals, and technical details.'
This mindset extends to accountability. 'If something goes wrong and it is our responsibility, we solve it,' he states. 'We do not argue about obvious issues, because trust is essential in long-term cooperation.'
© GRADE
Verona Kitchen Collection
GRADE's growth highlights how structured manufacturing, combined with a people-focused approach, can support expansion across competitive European markets. By aligning flexibility with operational discipline, the company continues to position itself as a reliable partner for large-scale retail and distribution.
'At the end of the day, customers are not only choosing a product,' Volodymyr concludes. 'They are choosing a partner they can rely on.'
More information:
GRADE
5 Klemanska str,
02081 Kyiv, Ukraine
Catalogues:
www.grade-catalogues.com
Kate Strelnikova
Head of Export
[email protected]
+38 097 474 04 70 (WhatsApp)
