Midea has partnered with buying group MHK UK as it looks to expand its presence in the UK’s independent kitchen retail market.

The agreement makes MHK UK the first retail buying group to partner with Midea for its expansion into the independent kitchen channel. MHK members will gain access to Midea’s kitchen appliance portfolio on preferential buying terms.

Midea entered the UK market in 2022, initially concentrating on electrical retailers and e-commerce. The new partnership represents a further step in its strategy to build relationships with independent kitchen specialists.

David Morris, sales director at MHK UK, said there was strong potential for Midea in the UK, highlighting its combination of product innovation, quality and competitive pricing.

Ben Day, kitchen channel national account manager at Midea, said the partnership would provide independent retailers with a strong appliance proposition, supported by attractive commercial terms.

The partnership was officially announced at a joint Midea and Teka event in Manchester, attended by more than 30 customers. The event also featured a cooking demonstration by TV chef James Martin using Teka appliances.

Trade perspective

The agreement gives Midea an established route into the independent kitchen retail sector, while providing MHK members with another appliance supplier.

For Midea, the move is an opportunity to broaden its UK distribution beyond traditional electrical retail and online channels. For independent kitchen retailers, it adds another manufacturer competing for business in an increasingly competitive appliance market.