On a closer look, did Milan Kuster and his i-Vent mislead customers with past references to the German LUNOS?

Milan Kuster, director of i-Venta, has remained composed despite recent challenges, including a contentious split with a former business partner, ongoing legal proceedings with Lunos, and the successful sale of his company to the British group Volution Group. Instead of focusing on conflict, he is directing his efforts toward building a sustainable future for the company. Currently, i-Venta operates as a development center for an international group, developing proprietary innovations such as i-Cube and expanding its influence on foreign markets. In an interview, Kuster emphasized his belief that “building is always better than tearing down,” reflecting both his personal philosophy and the strategic direction of his company. The transition from Lunos to i-Venta in 2023 was a deliberate strategic move tied directly to the sale of the company to Volution Group. The renaming marked a shift from being primarily a distributor on the Slovenian market to becoming a key development partner within the international group. This decision was driven by long-term vision rather than immediate media controversies. Kuster explained that the goal was to preserve knowledge and expertise in Slovenia while advancing proprietary systems and technologies for the entire European group. The change represented the beginning of a new developmental path, not a reaction to later tensions. Media reports and public statements have had some impact on the company’s operations, affecting customer trust and demand temporarily. However, Kuster stated that the company responded with open communication and a focus on core values. Revenue declined significantly, from €10.8 million in 2023 to €6.8 million the previous year, primarily due to a general contraction in the European ventilation market, especially in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, as well as reduced construction activity in Slovenia. While these factors contributed to the decline, Kuster noted that the company shifted its focus toward internal development for the Volution Group, which is not fully visible in the Slovenian financial statements. He added that the company has stabilized its operations and plans for growth this year. When asked about addressing concerns from customers regarding disputed practices and the “real” company, Kuster clarified that legal proceedings between the companies following the split with a former partner were being handled by the appropriate authorities. He stressed that these matters did not involve i-Venta and that the company continued to operate based on the original vision of developing proprietary systems and accessing the knowledge of the Volution Group. He urged customers to verify documentation, guarantees, and contact information, emphasizing that they were working with the right successor who builds upon 13 years of reputation. Kuster's approach reflects a broader commitment to innovation and local economic development. Despite the challenges, he maintains that Slovenia holds significant untapped potential, particularly in the field of ventilation solutions. His emphasis on long-term value over short-term gains aligns with the strategic goals of the Volution Group. By investing in research and development, i-Venta aims to position itself as a leader in the industry, leveraging both local expertise and international resources. Looking ahead, Kuster remains focused on the future, confident that the company will continue to grow and deliver results through its innovative products and services. His message is clear: stability and progress come from building, not from destruction. As i-Venta moves forward, it carries with it the legacy of Lunos and the promise of a brighter, more sustainable future for the company and its stakeholders.