Dimitrios Krallidis - DSK Kitchens & Furniture
Dimitrios Krallidis is the founder of DSK Kitchens and Furniture. DSK specialise in premium, custom built kitchens and furniture. With 50 years of experience, DSK now boast many high-profile celebrities on its valued client list, a state-of-the-art showroom, and a long list of industry awards for its unique designs and craftsmanship in the architectural joinery, cabinetry and furniture industry. This landed Dimitrios a spot as a finalist for the 32nd Annual Small Business Award.
Q: What was early life like for Dimitrios?
A: Dimitrios started his apprenticeship in Greece at just nine years old, initially working in a furniture shop. Life was difficult, so seeking a better future for his children, Dimitrios’ father migrated his family to Australia In 1969. Money was tight, and at the young age of 14, Dimitrios began applying for jobs instead of attending school.
There was an ad in the local Greek newspaper searching for tradespeople, and when Dimitrios turned up for an interview, he was initially laughed at and turned away, being told “we want tradesmen, we don’t want kids”. He insisted that he knew what he was doing, and the woman running the business at the time, gave him a chance. The company was one of the most popular kitchen suppliers in Sydney during the 70’s and 80’s, and Dimitrios ended up working with them for 12 years. By the age of 18, Dimitrios had become a foreman and was overseeing around 40 people.
Q: What difficulties were faced when starting the business?
A: DSK Kitchens was started in 1985 by Dimitrios (now 41 years old), his wife and sons. As he could not speak English, the early days of business were really difficult. Dimitrios had the misfortune of cutting off his thumb in an unfortunate accident, which meant he was unable to work for a year.
Things began to turn around for the business and within 3 years of starting, DSK began to experience great success. No factory was ever big enough for them, so they borrowed 2 million dollars to build their own. The company have continued to expand, now with around 15 staff members. DSK are unique in their approach to joinery and kitchen fit-outs, using state of the art technology to ensure that each piece is cut to one hundred percent accuracy.
Q: What is Dimitrios’ greatest achievement?
A: Dimitrios states that his greatest achievement, aside from his work, is his family. “I love my grandchildren and my family and I think they will be involved with prosperity for this country”.
Q: How is his business giving back to the community?
A: Dimitrios had a friend many years ago who unfortunately was diagnosed with cancer. He inspired him to raise money for the O’Brien House. To date, DSK have contributed $175,000.00 to the organisation. Dimitrios also became involved with WindGap, an organisation that create a safe space for adults with intellectual disabilities and give them an opportunity to live independently. Dimitrios is proud to have been made an ambassador for WindGap.
“they say Australia is a lucky country but you have to make your luck, the work you put out, it will reward you”
