Kitchen Headquarters (often referred to as KHQ) was started four years ago in WA by well known entrepreneur and co founder Rick Hart with his partner Nick Kirby. Starting in one store in the “kitchen central” industrial suburb of Osborne Park, Hart and Kirby quickly built the business to three stores in three years – which obviously attracted the attention of east coast appliance giant The Winning Group.
Two weeks ago The Winning Group completed its purchase of KHQ, with founder Rick Hart staying on in an ambassadorial role under contract for the next three years. Speaking to our friends at Appliance Retailer recently, Hart said he wasn’t too fussed with the new owners retaining the name. “I’ve been battered a bit with my brands over recent years so I am bit impervious to that. Kitchen Headquarters has been an exciting experience and to be able to develop a brand such as we have in such a short time – fewer than four years – is quite amazing and I am proud of that.
“I look forward now to taking the business through the next phase of the development.”
With seven stores in New South Wales and two in Queensland, the Winning Group appear to be closing in on their opposition – what’s next? Well Brad Street, National Commercial Manager of Winning Appliances told TKKB at the recent Zip Hydrotap launch at the Sydney Opera House that it seemed they had “quite a bit on their plate at the moment”! And he’s right – everyone you talk to know of the Winning brand and their expansion into WA only increases their market share and possible likelihood of more to come.
Started in 1906 selling horse and carriage trade, as well as hardware, the business is now in its fourth generation and growing rapidly. The acquisition of KHQ (itself a terrific success story headed by the legendary Rick Hart) is just another step as they march onwards and upwards – it will be interesting to see what happens next! Power Retail (when discussing this purchase) recently asked “how long will it be before we see a Winning Appliances in Victoria?” – I’m not that game to ask!!!!
Our thanks, as always, to Appliance Retailer – www.applianceretailer.com.au for part of this story.
