By Dianne M. Pogoda
Lothar C. Birkenfeld, CMKBD, who guided the U.S. arm of German kitchen giant Poggenpohl for more than a decade, died on July 4. He was 82.
Birkenfeld served as U.S. president and CEO of Poggenpohl from 1996 through 2009, growing it to more than 40 dealerships across the country, including signature company-owned retail studios as well as independently owned showrooms. During his tenure, he grew the company’s sales more than tenfold.
His expertise in engineering, sales, marketing, and kitchen and bath design left a profound mark on the industry. He was regarded as an innovative, visionary leader and a pioneer in contemporary European kitchen design who recognized its potential for growth in the American market. His contributions to building European kitchen brands in the U.S. also included leadership roles at Allmilmӧ and Alno.
Birkenfeld was among the first to bring European-manufactured kitchens to North America. Through his influence, “European cabinetry” became a coined phrase and industry standard. He was inducted into the NKBA’s Kitchen and Bath Industry Hall of Fame in 2007.
After retiring from Poggenpohl, he moved to Florida, where he joined his son, Lothar M. Birkenfeld, in LB Kitchens and Baths in Fort Lauderdale.
Birkenfeld came out of retirement in 2022 to rejoin Poggenpohl U.S. as its director of sales for its Multi-Family Division. Among the contracts he won were the St. Regis Longboat Key residences and additional luxury properties throughout Florida.
“Lothar was a true titan in the U.S. kitchen industry with an infectious passion and dedication to his work,” said Marcia Speer, Poggenpohl U.S. president.
Born in Berlin, Germany, he emigrated to the U.S. in 1970. Beyond his professional achievements, Lothar was known for his enthusiastic character and spirit of adventure, including his Ironman™ spectating adventures, his 5K and half-marathon competitions, and love of professional motor racing. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family. Besides his son, Birkenfeld is survived by his wife Lucette; daughters Cristelle and Nathalie, son-in-law Brennan, grandchild Delfina, and brother Dr. Wolfram Birkenfeld.
