Kartell was founded in 1949 by Giulio Castelli, an Italian chemical engineer. The business began by producing plastic products such as car accessories, household goods and laboratory articles. The company took an innovative approach early on to produce the items using a combination of technological research and design. The key challenges for Kartell were to introduce plastic to the home, and in the case of laboratory equipment to replace glass with plastics. When the company began to make furniture they gained international awards and a good reputation abroad enabling Kartell to develop its presence on the European markets.
Claudio Luti took over as the Kartell’s owner and chairman in 1988.
During the 1990’s, Kartell developed its collection further with various contributions coming from international designers which the company were now co-operating with. These include designers such as Ron Arad, Ferrucio Laviani, Enzo Mari, Philippe Starck and Patricia Urquiola. These designers all know how to understand and interpret the essence of the Kartell brand. The products are all very much ‘of their time’ but also keep working as contemporary articles in the present day.
The Kartell brand stands for innovation and quality. As a company, Kartell is investigating the new technological developments to enhance the Kartell product. The ongoing research has ensured that the performance and aesthetic of the plastic used is at its utmost. The products in plastic are also very eco-friendly. They are derived from petroleum which is a fossil substance and can be easily recycled.
The Kartell products are now distributed in 85 countries throughout the world in over 4000 points of sale.
