Blum USA Financial Year Statement for 2016/2017

Blum, Inc., functional hardware manufacturer, reports a successful conclusion to the financial year. A revenue increase of 8% to 283.5 million dollars is reflective of Blum’s innovative product offerings, consistent investments, strong market presence and the commitment of its staff. The 2016/2017 financial year ended June 30, 2017. Business in the US remained strong and the developments in kitchen cabinet industry continued in an optimistic manner. A rise in housing starts was also reflective of the positive momentum that the company accomplished.

Celebrating 40 years in the United States
Headquartered in Austria, founder Julius Blum had the vision to start this venture in the United States. Over the course of 40 years, the people of Blum, Inc. have turned that vision into a reality, making the North Carolina-based subsidiary exceedingly successful. To this day, Blum is still driven by the familial spirit of its founders, which has enabled Blum to push new boundaries and pioneer new products. Blum, Inc. employs 410 employees and is widely recognized for its four-year apprentice program that partners with Central Piedmont Community College and pays students while they learn and work. “We have always believed in building long-lasting relationships with employees, customers and key suppliers. Many times, it is said that the customer comes first,” Blum, Inc. President and CEO Karl Rudisser said. “I believe that both the employee and customer are equal. I think if you have great employees, the natural consequence is they will take care of the customer.”
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Investments
During the year, Blum announced a $15 million investment in Lincoln County, following a $4.4 million solar panel installation at the plant which began generating electricity last year. The company’s investment in its Lincoln County facility included equipment upgrades that improved the speed and efficiency of Blum’s fully automated warehouse, new machinery, equipment and tools used in manufacturing hinges and drawer runners along with building upgrades and plan to hire 15 to 20 workers at a variety of skill sets. “Anytime we invest back into our plant and operations, the benefits not only stimulate success for Blum, but also reach into the community in the form of good jobs and more spending in the local economy,” said Rudisser.

​Blum Group
The Blum Group experienced a worldwide revenue increase of 8% to $2.052 billion during the 2016/2017 financial year. As of June 30, 2017, the Blum Group employed 7,140 employees, which includes 341 apprentices, 16 of whom work at Blum, Inc. Investments by the Blum Group totalled $174.62 million in financial year 2016/2017. Sales by the various business regions were: EU 48%, USA 16%, and other markets 36%.