Villeroy and Boch is an international glassware manufacturer famous for its design innovations and extreme competency at ceramic production. In 2004, the company enjoyed world revenues of almost €1 billion. The company focuses on three major types of housewares--bathrooms and wellness, tiles, and tableware. According to internal market research, up to 70 percent of consumers are aware of the Villeroy and Boch brand.

What makes Villeroy and Boch so special is not simply its global reach. Innovation, harmony, and advanced design conspire to create the inimitable Villeroy and Boch style. In addition, the company is renowned for its unusual and interesting ceramic solutions. For instance, the company recently produced an antibacterial glaze, called 'ActiveCare.' They have also developed numerous bathroom ceramic technologies, including something called AquaReduct, which helps conserve water.

Another advancement from Villeroy and Boch is the so-called Magic Basin, which can be used in place of traditional water taps. The company has also developed a number of exciting tile materials, including Quaryl and Light Tile, which actually emit beams of light, giving off a futuristic, fluorescence display.

Villeroy and Boch is also a pioneer in the field of patterned and color designed dinnerware. The 2004 German Business Innovation Award went to Villeroy and Boch for its exciting and state-of-the-art table-work designs. By partnering with great designers from across different fields and exploring the limits of home wear and ceramic aesthetics, Villeroy and Boch continues its 250 year prominence as a company to watch.