Get Connected Magazine - April 2014

APRIL 2014

gcmagazine.co.uk

T H E M AG A ZI N E O F T H E E L E C T R I C A L G O O D S I N D U S T RY

THE VOTING BEGINS TV & SOUND PROJECTION

CAST YOUR VOTES NOW!

A big picture with big sound: that’s what home cinema fans are looking for

GROWTH FROM KNOWLEDGE GfK looks at the trends in TV & Sound

GUEST COLUMN Lancashire retailer Jonathan Dugdale on ‘The Internet of Things’

BACKCHAT A 2-minute interview with Gorenje’s Stuart Benson FOR THE LATEST NEWS & PRODUCTS

gcmagazine.co.uk UPDATED DAILY

THE NOMINATIONS HAVE BEEN CHOSEN (SEE PAGES 25 TO 34 OF THIS ISSUE)

Designed for big challenges

The new Miele dishwashers with 3D cutlery tray.

Miele’s new generation of dishwashers is characterised by best cleaning performance, excellent flexibility and lowest energy consumption values. No matter how challenging the load may be: your Miele dishwasher has been designed to achieve perfect results every time. This is what we call “Design for life”.

Ask your Area Manager for more information.

Contents

Contents 04 06 12 16 19 20

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ELECTROLUX BRINGS “SMARTPHONE” STYLE TO PRO-CHOICE OVEN

Editor in Chief: Marlinda Conway Telephone: 01420 886 33 marlinda@gcmagazine.co.uk

Creative Director: Will Dobson will@gcmagazine.co.uk

Magazine Advertising Sales: Brian Shilling Telephone: 01892 677 741 brian@gcmagazine.co.uk

Advertisement Production Administration: Will Dobson Telephone: 01342 850 456 artwork@gcmagazine.co.uk

Sharon Maslen Telephone: 01892 677 742 sharon@gcmagazine.co.uk

Subscriptions & Circulation: (GCCD) Telephone: 01420 886 33 circulation@gcmagazine.co.uk

Editorial & Publishing Director: Terry Heath Telephone: 01420 886 33 terry@gcmagazine.co.uk

Production and Print: Blackmore Press, Shaftesbury, Dorset www.blackmore.co.uk

21 22 23 24 25

Editorial Comment The Word

In and around the industry

The Product Gallery TV & Sound Projection

George Cole finds no shortage of exciting innovation in sound and vision

Growth from Knowledge

A stats-based look at the trends in television and associated sound

Lancashire retailer Jonathan Dugdale looks at the progress of the connected home In the Spotlight

Warranties provider SquareTrade

George Cole Gets Connected

The rise and rise of WiFi

From the Bench

Alan Bennett on curved TVs

Backchat

A 2-minute interview with Stuart Benson, National sales manager, Gorenje UK

The British Electrical Manufacturing & Retailing Awards: The Nominations

Annual subscription rate (inc. postage): UK £88; Overseas £108.

© Copyright 2014 Mud Hut Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mud Hut Publishing Ltd. Greyfriar Cottage, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, Hampshire. GU34 1SB www.gcmagazine.co.uk

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No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior permission of the publisher. Get Connected is published by Mud Hut Publishing Ltd., Greyfriar Cottage, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, Hampshire GU34 1SB.

APRIL 2014 GET CONNECTED

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Editorial Comment

Comment The British Electrical Manufacturing and Retailing Awards (EMRAs), with which Get Connected Magazine is proud to be associated as trade media partner, is building towards its climax at Twickenham Stadium on May 15th., when manufacturers and retailers in our industry will finally learn who has won an EMRA for 2014.

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ominations in all categories are now closed, but individual places and tables for the gala dinner, Awards ceremony and entertainment may still be available. Check at GC’s website www.gcmagazine.co.uk or the EMRA website at www.emra-online.co.uk. It promises to be a great industry night of enjoyment and networking.

EMRA would like to thank the major names in the industry who are supporting the event with sponsorship. Particular thanks go to: Beko; DAD; Blomberg; Domestic & General; Cromwell; Glen Dimplex Home Appliances; Gorenje; Maytag; Repic; Whirlpool.

Thanks also to all the manufacturers and retailers who have entered their products, services and achievements for the Awards. It’s encouraging to see this level of interest, and to be reminded of the pride and passion that this industry has retained through very trying times.

The manufacturers’ product nominations are now subject to EMRA would like to thank the final voting process. They the major names in the are listed in this magazine (see industry who are supporting pages 25-34), and it’s over to the event with sponsorship. the readers of Get Connected Particular thanks go to: Beko; to decide who will be lifting an DAD; Blomberg; Domestic EMRA trophy at Twickenham & General; Cromwell; Glen Stadium on May 15th. It may Dimplex Home Appliances; be an old cliché, but it is true Gorenje; Maytag; Repic; that everyone who takes part is a Whirlpool. winner. We hope to see you there.

And talking of old clichés, April 2014 marks the 450th anniversary of the birth of Shakespeare. Is that relevant to the 21st century electrical industry? He catered for a mass market; he studied the wants and needs of his customer base and listened carefully to their feedback; he was always willing to adapt the product to changing times and tastes; he was full of innovative ideas and knew how to bring them to market. And, ultimately, his success in his lifetime – which was considerable - was measured in hard commercial terms by how many people were willing to pay for what he had to offer. He made a good living. And, on top of that, after 450 years his brand is still instantly and internationally recognisable as an icon of British excellence. The boy, as they say, did good.

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REGISTER ONLINE for your FREE COPY of Get Connected Magazine

www.gcmagazine.co.uk

Marlinda Conway Editor in Chief

Terry Heath Editorial & Publishing Director

Will Dobson Creative Director

James McIntosh Consumer Consultant

George Cole Consumer Electronics Consultant

Database independently audited by Firgrove Consultancy. Average net 10 issues: 5,927 Mar 2012 – Feb 2013

Food Fresher For longer

At the heart of Fisher & Paykel refrigerators is the ability to sense and respond to daily use in an intelligent way. The combination of temperature sensors with smart electronics and variable speed fans creates a controlled environment and optimum temperature for better food care, which results in food being fresher for longer. We call it ActiveSmart™ Technology.

This Refrigerator also comes with a 5 year parts and labour warranty for your total peace

6379_FPG

of mind.

The Word : Industry News

FOR ALL THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE

Industry News UK consumer confidence accelerates Consumer confidence in the UK has continued to recover, with March recording the biggest single-year rise since the start of the recession.

GfK’s UK Consumer Confidence Index rose two points to -5, and all five measures used to calculate the Index score increased.

Nick Moon, Managing Director of Social Research at GfK, said the longer-term trend often tells much more than the changes in any individual month, and the current trend is “very strongly positive.”

During the last year the overall index has risen by 22 points – the biggest single-year rise since

Nov ‘08–Oct ‘09, and there hasn’t been a bigger increase since the period July ‘77–June ‘78.

“People are now on balance more positive than negative about their own financial prospects over the next year, and it is unlikely that anything announced in the recent Budget will reverse this,” said Moon.

BRC and DWP in major retail career push The British Retail Consortium and the Department for Work and Pensions have committed to working closely in an effort to get more people, especially those under 25, into careers in the retail sector.

A formal partnership agreement has been put in place by BRC Director General Helen Dickinson and Employment Minister Esther McVey MP. The launch took place at the Waltham Forest Job Centre Plus Youth Hub during an information session for young people interested in entering retail. The Minister and the BRC made a joint commitment to find work experience in the industry within six months for all attendees of

the session - the first formal commitment made under the new agreement.

BRC’s Dickinson said: “Too often when we think about a job in retail we think about a job on the shop floor, but the opportunities available are far more diverse than that. UK retailers are using cutting-edge technology to get their products to consumers, so they need people with digital and IT skills to make that happen. There are also roles in areas such as HR, finance, logistics, design and many more. We need to start valuing retail jobs more; if we don’t, too many people will miss out on a rewarding career in an industry employing more people than any other here in the UK.”

£1 BILLION SAVING ON BUSINESS ENERGY BILLS New rules which came into effect at the end of March will make it easier for small businesses to negotiate the rates they pay for energy and could lead to annual savings in excess of £1 billion.

Energy companies are now required to display contract end dates on the bills they send to small business customers and the cutoff date for either switching supplier or negotiating new rates.

Cutoff dates fall anywhere between 30 and 90 days before a contract actually comes to an end and missing them is to blame

for a quarter of businesses being trapped in a cycle of expensive rates.

Figures published by Ofgem in December show the average small business spends anywhere between £3,500 and £6,500 annually on gas and electricity.

See the full story at www.gcmagazine.co.uk

High street sales up but rate of growth slows High street retail sales grew at a slower pace in the year to March, but growth in April is expected to rebound strongly, according to the CBI’s latest monthly Distributive Trades Survey.

The survey showed that sales have risen year-on-year for the fourth consecutive month, although growth weakened on last month to a greater extent than expected.

Internet retail sales volumes continued to rise in the year to March, with the pace of growth remaining in line with its long-run average (since August 2009).”

Sales are predicted to pick up again in the year to April, bringing the growth rate back into line with February, which was the strongest recorded since the onset of the financial crisis.

Internet retail sales volumes continued to rise in the year to March, with the pace of growth remaining in line with its long-run average (since August 2009).

Barry Williams, Asda Chief Merchandising Officer for Food and Chair of the CBI Distributive Trades Survey Panel, said: “It’s promising to see a run of positive growth rates on the high street, with sales up on a year ago for the fourth month in a row.

We’re hopeful that this will continue, but there are still signs that this needs to be a cautious hope.

“The pace of growth has slowed; likely, in part, down to the later timing of Mother’s Day and Easter this year – conversely, this is the same reason many retailers are looking forward to more robust growth next month.”

For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk

For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk

REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer REPIC Responsible is ourrecycling... new campaign greater consumer participation in the Recycling world of WEEE visit toourencourage new website for full details! participation in the world of WEEE recycling... visit our new website for full details!

The Word : Industry News

Video streaming services added to CPI basket of goods Video streaming services such as Amazon Instant Video and Netflix have been added to the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) in an annual review of the CPI basket of goods and services.

The category is being added as part of a combined DVD rental/ video-on-demand subscription services item to reflect the trend for downloads of films and TV programmes. It replaces DVD rental internet subscriptions. DVD recorders have been removed from the basket.

Digital cameras with interchangeable lenses such as DSLR cameras are also being added.

The Office for National Statistics said that, with the decline in purchases of traditional compact digital cameras due to the functionality provided by mobile phones, DSLR models now make up about half of consumer spending on cameras.

Inclusion of the interchangeable lens digital camera also helps to improve coverage in the underrepresented photographic and photographic equipment section of the basket.

JLP’s Sir Charlie Mayfield to chair BRC Sir Charlie Mayfield will become Chairman of the British Retail Consortium this autumn. He will commence his term of office in May before succeeding current Chairman Sir Ian Cheshire when he stands down at the end of September after a two-year term.

Mayfield is Chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, a longstanding member of the BRC.

Product recall: Dyson fan heaters Dyson is recalling over a million AM04 and AM05 fan heaters after four reports of appliances shortcircuiting, resulting in a fire contained within the machine. There have been no instances of personal injury or damage to property.

Dyson is taking back the affected heaters, repairing and servicing them and returning them to customers, with a new 2-year guarantee covering parts and labour.

Questions about the recall should be directed to Dyson on 0800 090 1400.

See www.gcmagazine.co.uk for the stories behind the news ESC holds roundtable to discuss electrical product safety Senior figures from the electrical product supply chain gather to discuss problems with traceability and product recall

Escape from reality….

Sony unveils its vision for the future of gaming with a virtual reality headset for PlayStation 4

GfK unearths power in charging market A highly valuable market with growth fuelled by consumer demand for convenience and plenty of power on the move

UK video games industry celebrates as Games Tax Relief

finally approved

Decision will lead to an estimated £188 million in additional investment for UK game developers over the next five years

Monster’s 24-carat performance at ‘Harrods Is Technology’ London store offers “exclusive” gold edition PowerCard priced at £1,200; platinum edition at £1300

The Word : Industry News

FOR ALL THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

Shareholders back YouView for a further 5 years TV service YouView has secured continued investment from its seven existing shareholders for at least a further five years.

The new agreement retains the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, BT, TalkTalk and Arqiva as equal shareholders committed to promoting the future of connected free-to-air TV and enabling an upgrade path to pay services.

YouView also announced that it has reached well over a million connected UK homes since it launched in 2012.

CEO Richard Halton said: “The next phase for YouView involves ambitious developments across a range of devices and we’re looking forward to achieving our long-term target of 10 million connected UK homes.”

More time granted for Dixons and Carphone deal Dixons and Carphone Warehouse have confirmed an extended deadline for their merger negotiations, which were first announced 24th February when talks were at a very early stage.

An extension was granted by the Takeover Panel after both parties agreed they required more time to evaluate a potential merger of the two businesses. The companies must now announce a firm intention to make an offer no later than 5.00pm on 19 May 2014. The original deadline was 5.00pm 24 March.

The two companies released a statement saying that discussions are still ongoing and there can be no certainty that a firm offer will be made.

VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE

LOEWE OWNERSHIP GOES TO STARGATE CAPITAL German TV manufacturer Loewe has announced it is to be acquired by Stargate Capital GmbH, an investor based in Munich. The parties to the deal have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

Payment of the purchase price and funding for future growth have been “fully secured” by Stargate and the banks involved, and Stargate will acquire all business operations of Loewe AG and Loewe Opta GmbH. There is promise for the future of “investment totalling tens of millions of euros,” and Stargate has said it will maintain the business and production at Loewe’s Kronach site in Germany as a going concern.

James McConnell, Loewe UK’s managing director, said: “Stargate Capital is a serious investor with clear plans for Loewe. The investment means Loewe is now solvent and with a fighting fund for growing the business. We are on track with the development of an exciting product roadmap with strategic partner Hisense which will be debuted at IFA this year. For UK dealers this will mean better products, better supply and a rejuvenated Loewe.”

This deal follows the withdrawal earlier this year of investment company Panthera GmbH from an agreement to acquire Loewe, when bank support was not forthcoming (see report on GC’s website January 17th).

ESC rebrands as ‘Electrical Safety First’

The Electrical Safety Council, the UK’s only charity focusing on electrical safety, has rebranded as Electrical Safety First, following research which found that people were unclear what the organisation was and what it did, despite it having run highly successful media campaigns. Some believed it to be a trade association, while others thought it was part of Government.

FOR THE

Phil Buckle, Director General of the Charity since 2009, said: “It was evident we needed an image which really mirrored our purpose and activities as a consumer charity; that we are here to protect people by providing advice and information and by campaigning for improvements to electrical safety.

“Our rebrand as Electrical Safety First has nothing to do with vanity and everything to do with relevance. To fulfil our core objective – to protect people from the dangers of electricity – the public needs to know who we are and how we can help.

I believe our new name and image help to do that by reflecting our role as a consumer champion and ensuring that the charity is fit for purpose in the 21st century.”

AND

:

www.gcmagazine.co.uk

Double celebration for REPIC REPIC, the UK’s largest producer compliance scheme for the collection and recycling of WEEE, celebrated exceeding the collection and treatment of 1.5 million tonnes of WEEE on its tenth birthday with a reception at the House of Commons.

Minister of State for Business & Energy Michael Fallon MP and Bury MP David Nuttall were amongst those present.

REPIC said its achievements signified a positive turning point for the industry at the dawn of the recently introduced new WEEE regulations in January this year.

CEO Dr Philip Morton commented: “These are very exciting times for REPIC. We are hugely grateful to our members, LAs and other collection partner and treatment companies. Together they have helped us break the 1.5 million tonne mark in the UK. What’s more, we are entering REPIC’s eleventh year of operating, optimistic in the knowledge that the WEEE industry at large has better times ahead.”

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The Word : Industry News

MERIDIAN SPECIAL EDITION LOUDSPEAKERS NOW AVAILABLE TO ORDER Meridian Audio has announced that its new DSP Digital Active Loudspeakers – Special Edition DSP8000 SE, DSP7200 SE and DSP5200 SE – are now available to order.

Confirmed recommended retail prices for the units are as follows: DSP5200HC/VC SE £5,250.00;

DSP7200 SE £24,000.00; DSP7200HC/VC SE £12,500.00; DSP8000 SE £43,000.00; DSP8000VC SE £22,000.00.

The Special Edition models mark the 25th anniversary of the introduction of the world’s first digital loudspeaker, the Meridian D600.

SHORTCUTS Leisure is running a cash-back promotion

Motorola back in the game with Moto G success The latest smartphone sales data from Kantar Worldpanel ComTech for the three months to February 2014 show a resurgent Motorola climbing from almost zero to 6% of British sales in just six months, on the back of its Moto G smartphone.

The Moto G has attracted a very specific consumer profile. Almost half of owners are aged between 16 and 24, 83% are male and generally from lower income groups with 40% earning under £20,000.

With virtually no existing customers to sell to in Britain, the Moto G has stolen significant numbers of low/mid-end customers from Samsung and Nokia Lumia.

Dominic Sunnebo, strategic insight director at Kantar Worldpanel ComTech, said: “It highlights the speed at which a quality budget phone can disrupt a market.”

The Moto G’s success has helped Android remain the top OS across Europe with 68.9% share. Apple holds second position with 19.0% share and Windows is third with 9.7%.

Smartphone penetration in Great Britain stood at 70% in February.

Exclusively distributed by HSCL

until 31st May 2014, in which consumers can claim up to £200 cash back on all new 90cm Cookmaster and Cuisinemaster range cookers launched for spring 2014.

Peter Spencer (pictured) has been appointed

Electrolux General Manager UK & Ireland. Ian Banes, who formerly occupied the role, will become SVP Product Line Home Comfort, Channel and Sales Development for Electrolux Major Appliances EMEA.

ON THE DOT

Gorenje’s HomeCHEF builtin oven has won a Red Dot Award for Product Design 2014, after impressing judges with its advanced features and interactive colour touch-display technology.

LG Electronics’ reputation for excellence in the field of design has been

Britannia Living has appointed Alex Demers to the role of Business Development Manager. Demers previously worked for beverage brands Thresher and Britvic and household retailer Makro.

A £1 million TV campaign with 20-second

and 10-second ads for the Tefal OptiGrill is running until 29th of April on a range of TV channels including ITV1, C4, Five and Daybreak. Point-of-sale materials are available for retailers. Contact Tefal on 01753 834900 or www.tefal.co.uk

recognised with 33 Red Dot Awards, including “Best of the Best” Awards for its G Flex smartphone and Smart 3D Blu-ray Home Cinema system. The GSL545 American-style fridge freezer series also received a Red Dot 2014 Philips’ DesignLine Smart TV has won a Gold iF Product Design Award, being honoured for “superior

design that breaks with conventional TV styling.”

Toshiba has received a ‘Red Dot Award: Product Design 2014’ for a total of five products across its three main product categories.

The Awards were given to the BDX6400 Smart Blu-ray Disc™ player; the L74 series Smart TV; the Portégé Z30, Tecra Z40 and Tecra Z50 series laptops

We stock over 100 Severin products in the categories: • Coffee/Breakfast • Food Preparation • Household • Hair & Beauty Why Severin?

• Excellent value for money • Outstanding quality, built to last • 2 year warranty • Excellent retailer margins • Products only available in small retailers

www.hscl.info T: 01204 558181 F: 01204 558161 E: sales@hscl.info APRIL 2014 GET CONNECTED

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The Word : Industry News

FOR ALL THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE

Contest winners enjoy cool Gorenje prizes Gorenje UK has presented ten UK consumers with Retro Fridge Freezers, after they won a recent ‘Feel Good’ competition offering the chance to show their “colourful” side. The competition was developed in conjunction with Ecover and marketed on more than a million Ecover product bottles.

KEF ready to rock in support of Childline British loudspeaker brand KEF is to take part in the fourth Childline Rocks/Sons of Royalty annual fundraising Harley Davidson motorcycle and car ride, in support of NSPCC charity Childline.

KEF UK Managing Director Steve Halsall is to join other motorcycle enthusiasts, including ex-members of the special forces, celebrated authors and rock musicians, on a ride through the US. The participants with ride from Nashville, through Columbus, New Orleans, Louisiana and Mississippi, finishing in Clarksdale on www.justgiving.com/KEF-AudioUK 3rd May.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

ZANUSSI INTRODUCES BRAND NEW FREESTANDING COOKERS Zanussi’s new range of freestanding cookers with XXL family sized oven capacity has been developed based on the really important features that consumers want from their cookers.

These innovative appliances are bigger and better than ever before with Zanussi introducing induction hob technology onto top-of-the-range models, making them easier to clean, energy efficient and safer to touch.

To help make cleaning that little bit easier, the collection features removable glass doors and selfcleaning catalytic liners that oxidise grease when cooking. The Plus ThermaFlow cooking system allows users to prepare their main meal, pudding and garlic bread at the same time, as the fan’s placement inside the oven ensures no transfer of taste from one dish to another.

Zanussi Trade Sales Number:

08445 610 610 www.zanussi.co.uk

Beko rewards “170 years” of service Beko rewarded 17 of its members of staff with a 10th year anniversary lunch at the National Distribution Centre near Birmingham, in honour of each individual’s dedicated service and hard work. The company recognised its long-serving employees’ contribution to making its UK logistics and supply chain network “world class.”

Princely showcase for Britannia appliances Britannia Living’s premium kitchen appliances are being showcased at the Ideal Home Show 2014 in three energy-efficient ‘Prince’s Houses’ designed by HRH Prince Charles’ charity.

The three eco-houses, which are 70% more energy efficient than current building regulations require, have been designed in collaboration with The Prince’s Foundation for Building Community and are fitted with range cookers and cooker hoods from Britannia.

The houses will later be relocated to the Dumfries House Estate in Cumnock, Ayrshire, which was rescued by a consortium formed by the Prince of Wales in 2007.

“Trend counselling” for EH show visitors Exclusively Housewares organiser Brooke House Exhibitions has announced that visitors to the June 2014 show will be offered some “trend counselling.”

EH is teaming up with trend forecasting agency Scarlet Opus to host a presentation on the key interior design trends and colours for autumn/winter 2014/15 and spring/ summer 2015. The content will cover kitchen, dining and small domestic appliances product areas.

Scarlet Opus will also run a workshop providing independent retailers with information and ideas to help develop “a customer experience to match consumers’ desires.”

Market research company GfK is to present an overview of the market, identifying product areas that are enjoying growth in order to help retailers with their category buying choices.

0121 237 1130 / info@exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk 10

GET CONNECTED APRIL 2014

Keeping floors clean everyday has never been easier Some people actually like tedious, heavy housework.

Love it, even. We don’t. We do, however, love the fresh look and feel of beautifully clean floors.

The iRobot high-performance floor cleaning robots will mop, scrub and vacuum your floors for you.

Whichever robot you choose, as soon as you set it to work you’ll see how it delivers on our commitment to create only practical robots that make a genuine difference to people’s lives. It won’t walk or talk or make your breakfast, but when you realise just how well it cleans, we think it will make you smile.

Available from UK warehouse.

For further information please go to www.witt-ltd.co.uk

140114_UK_annoncer.indd 2

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StyliSh Design excellent function Did you know that induction hobs compared to gas or ceramic hobs are significantly more energy efficient and economical to use?

The reason is that the induction technology is faster and has a far better energy utilization and thereby wastes less energy.

Witt induction hobs give you state-of-the-art technology, Scandinavian design and a lifetime of cooking pleasure!

Exclusive for independent retailers!

For further information please go to www.witt-ltd.co.uk

The Product Gallery

The

Gallery

Monster PowerCard The Monster PowerCard is a universal rechargeable portable battery that can charge most smartphones on the market today. It slips easily into wallets/purses and is lightweight and powerful. According to Monster, the credit card-sized PowerCard is capable of charging a smartphone up to three times faster than standard USB 2.0 charging devices.

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1,650 mAh Li-Polymer battery USB 1.5amp quick charge for output charging USB micro input charging LED indicators Serialised to avoid fraud

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www.monsterproducts.com

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Amica 608CE2Ta(XX) freestanding cooker Amica’s 608CE2Ta(XX) freestanding cooker with ceramic hob is part of the company’s latest 60cm range of electric and gas FS models. It offers a 66-litre fan oven, with an energy saving of 20% over standard A-rated freestanding models, and comes with a 2-year guarantee. Available in stainless steel or white j j j j j j j

4 HiLight Zones: 2 x 14.5cm, 2 x 18cm Multifunction with fan assist (8 functions) / Electric 2000W grill Digital programmer with clock and timer Storage drawer for pots and pans 1 x deep ProCook non-stick roasting pan / 2 x full width stainless wire shelves Easy-clean enamel oven liners

Bosch takes up the cordless challenge Bosch is to bring a cordless upright vacuum cleaner to market during August this year, with claims that the appliance cleans as well as a mains-powered vacuum. The ‘Athlet’ has a rechargeable lithium ion battery and provides, according to Bosch, up to an hour of powerful cleaning time, maintaining peak power output until sensor lights indicate a recharge is required.

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Flexible nozzle joint for 360° cleaning, easy handling and manoeuvrability Weight 3kg (lighter when used without nozzle) Can be worn across the body with strap accessory 72dB operation Bosch patented SensorBagless™ technology Motorised brush, high-power airflow and long-life motor

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www.bosch.co.uk

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01425 461600 www.amica-international.co.uk

Yamaha RX-V377 AV receiver

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uk.yamaha.com

Yamaha’s RX-V377 5.1-channel AV receiver sits at the entry point of the brand’s receiver range, offering exceptional sound quality and features at an RRP of £249.95. The RX-V377 supports 4k ULTRA HD Pass-through video technology and HDMI Consumer Electronics Control (CEC), Audio Return Channel (ARC), 3D Pass-through, Deep Colour/ x.v.Color/24Hz Refresh Rate and Auto lip-sync adjustment.

Automatic YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Acoustic Optimisation) calibration 192KhZ/24-Bit Burr Brown DACs Low-impedance drive capability / Low jitter PLL circuitry HD-audio format decoding SILENT CINEMA surround experience from regular headphones ECO Mode uses at least 20% less power across inputs and outputs

The Product Gallery

Toshiba Satellite P50t laptop launches Q2 2014 Toshiba’s new Satellite P50t laptop is promoted as ideal for creative professionals and multimedia enthusiasts. The unit is available with the option of a 3840 x 2160 4k screen or a Full HD (1920 x 1080) screen and incorporates 4th generation Intel® Quad-Core™ i7 processing, up to 16GB DDR3L RAM (1,600 MHz) memory and AMD® Radeon™ R9 M265X graphics with 2GB GDDR5 VRAM. OS: Windows 8.1 64 bit.

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Connectivity: 4x USB 3.0; 1x HDMI®-out; SD/SDHC slot; Mic-in; Headphone out; Bluetooth® 4.0; Intel® Wireless Display; Intel® Dual Band Wireless-AC 3160; Gigabit LAN 2x Harman Kardon® stereo speakers with Slip Stream Technology tuned by DTS Sound™ audio enhancement HD webcam Resolution+ Battery life up to 5 hours Touchscreen with 10-point touch support ODD: Blu-rayTM BD-RE (XL) drive

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www.toshiba.co.uk

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Whirlpool marks World Cup with MAX Sport microwave launch Whirlpool is celebrating the 20th FIFA World Cup with the launch of the MAX Sport limited edition microwave oven. The white MAX Sport has a magnetic England flag on its top surface, providing a unique design element and additional protection from hot dishes placed on top of the appliance. It can also be used as a take-to-table heat-resistant mat.

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Curved design fits into worktop corner Microwave, quartz grill and CRISP™ plate / Full-sized 28cm turntable Super-fast Jet Defrost 3D microwave distribution system for uniform cooking Electronic soft-touch controls with trendy blue LEDs 700W with a choice of five power levels / 24 hour clock and kitchen timer

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www.whirlpool.co.uk

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08445 613 613 www.electrolux.co.uk

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Electrolux brings “smartphone” style to pro-choice oven Electrolux’s new TFT Pyrolytic oven not only provides a huge range of features and cooking options (its high specifications and array of versatile functions have made it one of the ovens of choice in double Michelin starred chef Tom Kitchin’s own home), but also features smooth, precise and intuitive TFT interactive colour touch-screen controls of the kind we’ve become used to on smartphones. j j j j j j

74-litre capacity with simultaneous cooking on five shelf levels Pyrolytic cleaning 18 cooking functions / 90 recipes with preset cooking programmes XL Ultra Fan Plus with new air guide design Energy rating A-30% Anti-fingerprint stainless steel finish

Invision UK offers new models from Aquavision Invision UK has announced the release of new 55” and 70” models from Aquavision. Three different types of LED panels – Genesis, Nexus and Pinnacle – provide flexibility for installers and accommodate clients’ varying budgets. Each panel has a heated screen to prevent misting in showers, bathrooms and other areas of high humidity.

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3x HDMI, 1080p and inbuilt Freeview tuner Genesis: basic IR control for projects where supplied remote or universal remote used Nexus: discreet IR control and RS232 – ideal for integrating with control solutions Pinnacle: IP Control and Smart TV functionality plus Freesat tuner Finishes: Black, Polar White or MirrorVision

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TV and Sound Projection

Telling the Big TV story TV, as the longstanding core of the CE market in the UK, may be struggling to make a living for its manufacturers and retailers, but there is no shortage of exciting innovation in sound and vision, and there is still a big story to be told for those retailers who want, and need, to keep TV at the centre of their offering to the public.

George Cole looks at the products, the developments and the manufacturers’ advice on how to communicate the big story into 2014 and beyond

Philips sound and vision system

A

big picture with big sound: that’s what home cinema fans are looking for. The good news is that there are plenty of products around that make it possible to turn even a modest-sized living room into a home theatre. The arrival of flat panel TVs meant that you didn’t need to live in a mansion to enjoy large screen entertainment at home. Over the years, new technologies such as LED and OLED have meant that flat panel sets have become even slimmer.

There’s also been a design revolution at the front of the set, as manufacturers make the bezel - the frame that surrounds the screen - even thinner. Now, many sets offer ultra-thin bezel designs (Philips even offers what it calls a zero bezel design). Thin bezels offer a number of benefits, the most obvious being that a larger-sized screen can be squeezed into the same footprint used by smaller sets just a few years ago. It means

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that someone who might once have considered, say, a 37-inch set as being the largest size they could accommodate at home, can now opt for a 42-inch TV without needing any more space. Another advantage is that there are fewer front reflections, which is less distracting. Last, but not least, thin bezel designs give viewers a more cinematic experience – the viewing area is almost totally comprised of the screen.

CRITICAL RETAIL DEMO AND PRESENTATION SKILLS

A comprehensive home cinema sound solution from Sony

Manufacturers are launching a host of products this year and are keen that retailers demonstrate their features to the full. LG is launching a 77-inch Ultra HD curved OLED TV, which includes the company’s Cinema Screen design offering a near-frameless and minimalist look.

A ribbon stand, featured on this year’s range, makes it look as if the TV is floating.

“Ultimately,” says Dawn Stockell, head of brand marketing for LG consumer electronics, ”the foundations of good in-store customer service will always stay the same: ensuring that staff are prepared to educate consumers on the latest technologies and most importantly, the benefits.” In terms of the retail environment, she adds, it’s critical that the set-up enhances the design of the TV and

provides potential buyers with an instant cinematic experience. “For consumers exploring totally new technologies for the first time, seeing really is believing. We know from research undertaken by LG that 50% of people have said they’re more likely to buy a Smart TV if they can see a live demonstration in-store. So offering product showcases is absolutely central to the purchase process for consumers.”

Stockell also says it’s important that retailers highlight the benefits of thin bezel sets in terms of their smaller footprint. The LG Lounge training app has a dedicated module on thin-bezel TVs and can be used to train retailers on the benefits of thin-bezel TVs. The app can be downloaded for free on Android and Apple smartphones and tablets.

MORE TV FOR LESS SPACE

Glenn Zanoni, Toshiba’s senior product manager for northern Europe, says “thinbezel TVs are becoming ubiquitous across all new ranges, and it’s vital that the retailers understand the benefits of the new designs. Customers can now enjoy larger screens inside their living rooms without taking up additional space, which is important given that space in the home is often a precious commodity. As such, many consumers want the biggest screen to fit in the space they have to fill.”

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He adds that the look and design of a TV is just as important as the features of the TV itself, “TVs need to look as good when they are switched off as when they are on,” he notes. “Thin bezel designs play right in to that need, creating that ultramodern living room or even second room.”

Amit Rullay, marketing manager, TP Vision UK, says one of the most effective ways of demonstrating a thin bezel TV is to display it side-by-side with a regular set in a living-room style environment, with the same content playing on both screens. “The impact of a thin bezel is greater on larger screen sizes and sets of 50-inch and above should be used for these demonstrations,” he says. “For Philips TVs, this is also a fantastic way to demonstrate Ambilight, especially as Philips sets have zero bezel. Now with the latest version of Ambilight, and zero bezel sets, viewers can get a more immersive experience.”

Toshiba: Smart TV in more ways than one

GETTING THE RIGHT EXPERIENCE

SOUNDING OUT YOUR CUSTOMERS

Home cinema sound has transformed over the years, with today’s systems offering everything from 2.1-channel sound to 7.1-channel. Add in products like wireless speakers and there’s no need to clutter up the living room with speakers and cables in order to get that home cinema sound. What is more, the arrival of audio products such as sound bars means you get a big sound from a relatively small device.

Get Connected April.pdf 1

Mike Somerset, Sony’s HAV product marketing manager, says “we’re often asked ‘what is the best sound system you can buy at the moment?’ As technologies evolve, it’s become clear that there’s no such thing as the ‘best sound system’, only ‘the best sound system for you’.

While someone may want a top-of -the range 5.1 home cinema, someone else may want a discreet sound bar that provides stunningly detailed sound without dominating the room.”

Understanding the customer’s needs is the key, Somerset adds. “For example, if a customer is interested in music and they have a new smartphone, it would be wise to mention our One-touch technology (which uses short-range NFC – Near-Field Communication - wireless technology) allowing them to wirelessly connect their phone to the Sony sound bar. If they subscribe to music streaming services (such as Spotify) this feature would hugely benefit them. However, describing this feature to a customer who doesn’t own a smartphone would not be a good idea.”

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Glenn Zanoni of Toshiba says: “Creating that cinema experience at home is more sought after than ever before. We have sound bars to help create that experience in any room in the home. In the retail environment, demonstration is the key.

Obviously, you can’t see sound as you can design and image quality. It’s about creating an environment in store where the customer can witness the viewing experience with and without a sound bar or home theatre system.” He adds that it’s also about demonstrating simplicity: getting the message across that, thanks to technologies such as Bluetooth and HDMI, turning your living room into a home theatre is no longer something reserved for the tech-savvy consumer.

LG has announced a new range of AV products for this year, including the space-saving SoundPlate (the LAB540W), a wireless audio system (NP8740) and a

sound bar (NB5540). The SoundPlate is the latest arrival to a new category of audio devices designed to accompany flat screen TVs. The device is space-efficient and can be placed directly underneath a variety of 32- to 55-inch TVs to minimise clutter.

“It’s critical that retailers are fully equipped to provide customers with in-depth knowledge and product demonstrations,” says LG’s Dawn Stockell.

“First, it’s important that customers are educated about what makes really good sound quality – that being about the range of sound produced, rather than just making the TV louder. In-store demonstrations are really important to this process and a great way to show the immediate advantage of dedicated AV kit is to begin with demonstrating the TV without a sound bar or sound plate, and then add an audio system – instant benefit.”

MATCHING SOUND TO SIGHT

Stockell says that in terms of the store set-up, “we always recommend as a first step that LG sound systems are placed with the relevant size TV screen. This will naturally enhance the look of the overall home entertainment offering and provide the most complementary experience for customers. LG is continuously committed to supporting its retail partners and believes that the in-store environment is a vital platform to showcase its products and help consumers make the right choice.”

Last year saw the expansion of LG’s training initiatives, with training and in-store teams offering a suite of tailored face-to-face and online training activities.

Stockell adds that the LG Lounge app gives retailers access to product information and tips wherever they are, and at a time that suits them. The app includes modules covering LG’s sound systems and sections on the newest UK products.

Demonstration has always played a pivotal role in the sales process, and when it comes to home cinema, a big picture and big sound can mean big profits for retailers who clearly demonstrate the benefits.

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Growth from Knowledge

Television & sound projection GfK’s Nigel Catlow, Business Group Director, Consumer Electronics, takes a stats-based look at the current and future trends in television and associated sound IN TV BIG IS BEAUTIFUL

In

the last few years TV has gone through a transition from consumers buying their first Flat TV to a market which is now dominated by replacement purchasing. This has been a painful process, with TV volume falling from a peak of 10 million to today’s annual level just above 6 million pieces. Compared to 2012, TV Volume fell by 19%. However, the pace of decline has subsided and volume February 2014 compared to February 2013 was only down 5% and screen sizes 32-inch and above are largely in volume growth.

WHAT’S NEXT?

So the key now is: what will happen next? We expect a more stable volume picture in the coming years, but replacement markets are generally characterised by consumers replacing with better

than what they already own. Hence we expect - and are starting to see - growth in the largest screen sizes, Smart TV and Ultra HD or 4K.

SCREEN SIZE PROBABLY HAS THE MOST CONSUMER APPEAL

The largest driver is likely to be screen size as it is the most visible step up for the consumer. Less than 3 million 50-inch + TVs have been sold since 2006 and therefore most homes do not have a TV of this size.

Larger screen sizes will inevitably carry smart TV features and also lead a demand for higher definition.

GREAT START FOR 4K

4K has made an encouraging start, with more than 5,000 sold already in the UK so far. These sales have come from just 13 models, mainly in 55-inch and 65-inch sizes. A more diverse selection of screen sizes

and prices will broaden the appeal inevitably. The World Cup will also provide a much needed impetus.

Evidence from previous World Cups shows the uplift happens in advance of the event itself rather than during. This advancement of 4K in the UK is matched across Europe, showing that not only does this technology have multi manufacturer support but also cross country retailer and consumer appeal.

ON THE WALL

These developments will have consequences. The bigger the screen size, the more likely the TV will end up being wall mounted. This of course gives the chance both to offer installation and to improve wall mount sales. Whilst total wall mount sales are in decline in our figures, those that match with bigger screen sizes are back in growth.

Sound Bars all growing fast, especially singles & bases

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VALUE GROWTH

For further information, contact Nigel Catlow, Business Group Director, Consumer Electronics: nigel.catlow@gfk.com +44 870 603 8109 www.gfk.com/uk www.twitter.com/gfk_en

LARGE SCREEN ACCESSORIES

Naturally, as the main TV watched grows in size, the consumer should think more about the definition of the picture sources. Blu-ray player volumes have fallen 7% over the last year. Whilst this is not encouraging, it is far better than total DVD, which fell by 14% in volume over the same period. There is an argument that Blu-ray should be the natural source from 40-inch+ screen sizes, and certainly the trend to bigger TV screens should provide some encouragement to this market.

CLUTTER-FREE SOUND TAKING OFF

As TV manufacturers reduce the bezel size to minimize the overall dimensions of the TV, this opens up the need for stronger separate sound. This is not helping the traditional home cinema market, however. This is still in significant decline in GfK figures. However, the Sound Bar market is exploding with an annual growth rate in excess of 100% and around half a million pieces sold in 2013. The moving annual volume total is now close to 600,000 pieces and rising fast.

This growth level seems set to continue across all three sound bar formats. Whilst the Sound Base is the fastest growing, we need to remember that this type is still relatively new so many brands are just bring out their first models in this sub-segment.

Like many audio categories the Sound Bars now sold increasingly carry wireless capability so that music from other wireless devices can be played on them.

We are expecting the volume in the sound bar market to exceed 800,000 pieces in 2014. As TV, it will receive a big impetus from sales in the period leading up to the forthcoming football World Cup. After a number of years of decline in Consumer Electronics markets we are now seeing some green shoots, especially in the Jumbo TV and its accessories domain.

APRIL 2014 GET CONNECTED

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Guest Column

SMART retailing connects with profits Jonathan Dugdale has a retail and installation business in Clitheroe, Lancashire (The Connected SMART home). He helped Hughes set up their ‘SMART Home’ team and he believes that retailers are the people to drive forward the Connected or SMART Home. Here he sorts some of the facts from the science fiction of the “Internet of Things”

T

he Internet of Things (IoT) and the Connected SMART home According to Wikipedia, ‘The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to uniquely identifiable objects and their virtual representations in an Internet-like structure.’

Which, in layman’s terms, means: At some stage all the devices in our lives will be connected and controllable, and some will even be able to learn our living habits. These devices, from the TV to the toaster to the car, will then adapt to our needs without us having to do anything, in order to help make our lives easier, more enjoyable and more efficient.

The term was first ‘officially’ coined by Kevin Ashton, a UK technology pioneer, in 1999. Ashton has since gone on to create several technology companies, and in 2010 his company, Zensi, was acquired by Belkin. Ashton is now in charge of their ‘cleantech’ division and is responsible for Belkin Wemo, a range of home automation products that many people will be familiar with.

That’s 16 devices in a house occupied by me, my wife and my son Harry, who is three!

The number of devices in our homes is growing, with an estimated 1.9 billion connected devices at the end of 2013, growing to 9 billion devices by 2018.

(Source: Gartner, Machine research, BII estimates 2013) What I didn’t fully appreciate until I sat down and thought about it is that every single one of them is effectively a computer, with the ability to process and store information as well as speak to other devices in my home and the outside world.

Already this year, Nest (the SMART thermostat that learns our living habits) was bought

by Amazon for $3.2 billion, Samsung showcased their ‘SMART Home’ vision at CES and Andy Mackay talked about LG’s vision of their Connected home solution in the March Edition of Get Connected.

This highlights a massive emerging market that is being pushed by some of the largest technology companies in the world.

Then throw in Apple and their iWatch which is due out later this year and you have wearable tech and yet another way to control these devices and ultimately... the home.

Already this year, Nest (the SMART thermostat that learns our living habits) was bought by Amazon for $3.2 billion...”

WHERE ARE WE NOW?

A few years ago I would never have thought about the IoT or the SMART home, but when I wrote down the number of ‘connected’ or ‘Smart’ devices I have in my home now, the list reads: Samsung Smart TV; LG Smart TV; SKY+ HD box; wireless printer; 2 x Iphones; 1 x Blackberry; 1 x Ipad; 1 x Samsung Tablet; Sonos playbar; Play 5; Play 3; Wii; PS3; 2 x laptops and my router.

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CONSUMER DEMAND

The rate at which technology is mass adopted has increased steadily over the years as technology has improved, and now the majority of people wouldn’t leave home without their SMART phone - or think to use their PC instead of their tablet at night to access information.

However, what we have to realise is that the reason people chose to adopt these technologies is that they provide value, they solve a multitude of problems and they have helped to enhance and improve our lives.

I believe that the IoT and the SMART home will be driven by the consumer seeing value in connectivity: a collection of different products in the home, working together to enhance our lives. But what I don’t see driving change are devices that offer little connected value, such as a wine cooler or toaster. Yes, they can be add-ons, but they’re not going to change human behaviour!

THE FORWARD-THINKING RETAILER

The problem I see is that there are too many devices and too many manufacturers pushing for the same space and not fully taking into account the complexities of the home network or the reluctance of the majority of consumers to buy new products year on year in order to keep up with technology.

What manufacturers have to understand is that, if they want to see the Connected SMART Home become a reality, they need to be able to make their new products work with existing products in the home in order to provide value. And in my experience this is complicated.

I feel this is where the retailer has an opportunity to help inform and educate the consumer about what’s available, demonstrating the key benefits these technologies can bring and then providing and connecting these different products in the home in order that they work as they are meant to.

WHERE TO START

Retailers have to understand how the home network works, go on courses run by the different trade associations and manufacturers (Cedia, CAI, retra, AWE, etc.), see what products are out there and what they can do, embrace change, embrace technology and look to educate the consumer and other trades of their findings.

It’s not going to happen overnight.

You’ll make mistakes, but you’ll learn, and when the true connected SMART home or IoT becomes a reality, you’ll be in a really strong position.

In the spotlight: SquareTrade

The electrical & electronic warranties market in the UK has developed over the past few years as the demand for cover has spread to different devices.

Get Connected puts the spotlight on SquareTrade Europe and asks MD Kevin Gillan some key questions about the company’s vision for the UK

GC: SquareTrade has expressed some forthright views on the current state of the UK warranties market. What’s wrong with it?

Kevin Gillan: “Old-school warranty companies have historically been built on breakage, with little or no incentive to pay out to their customers. Despite their reputation for terrible customer service and low value these companies have continued to exist because there have been no other viable options.

“SquareTrade has flipped this outdated model on its head by giving consumers another choice for device protection: a transparent, trusted, consumer brand that provides a hassle-free service, which is fairly priced. By creating a warranty that consumers want to buy, we offer retailers, and sales assistants, a service they can sell with a good conscience. You might think that honouring claims and making it easy to transfer or cancel at any time might take a bite out of the bottom line for retailers. But in fact, SquareTrade is proven to increase customer satisfaction and sales. Many of our retailers see an increase after switching to SquareTrade.

That’s what great customer service and a company built on customer interaction can deliver.”

GC: What are the key elements in SquareTrade’s fresh approach?

KG: “Simply put, our objectives are to offer consumers a fairly priced, high value product AND a transparent, world-class, hassle-free service.”

GC: What are the key messages you want to convey to the trade and to consumers?

KG: “SquareTrade’s focus on delivering superior value to consumers has created a new generation of customers who trust warranties and buy more of them.

In fact, three out of four of our customers would recommend us to a friend or family member. Consumer trust means a better reputation for the industry, whilst increasing warranty sales is good news for retailers.”

We have more than 50,000 five-star customer reviews and over a quarter of a million Facebook fans. SquareTrade also attracted one of the largest investments from private capital investors in 2012: $238m from Bain Capital.

GC: How is SquareTrade’s approach more appropriate to the 21st century marketplace?

GC: Where are you now in terms of plans and targets for the UK, and where do you want to be in the short and medium-term?

KG: “SquareTrade is designed for today’s consumer. We use innovative technology to make protecting your devices easy – whether you choose to do so online, in-store or on the phone. We also use technology to deliver a zero hassle claims process online, so regardless of when that breakage or damage occurs, you can quickly get it taken care of. Our 24/7 support means that customers aren’t left in the lurch outside of the typical 9 to 5 day or on the weekends.

“Our warranty products and services are always reflective of the latest buying habits. For example, we have never been more mobile! Whether it is a tablet or a mobile phone, we are all now carrying £400- worth of devices in our pockets and handbags. So a competitively priced warranty that protects against accidental damage is critical.

“We also aim to make sure our customers make educated decisions when looking to purchase their new gadgets, which is why we introduced the Breakability Score. The SquareTrade Breakability™ Score fills in the missing gap left by traditional device reviews.

Based on key elements such as front and back panel design, edge construction, materials, size, weight, friction co-efficient, water resistance and grip-ability, the SquareTrade Breakability™ Score ranks today’s top devices based on how prone they are to break due to accidents.”

KG: “We are now sold by two of the largest bricks -and -mortar retailers in the UK – Tesco and ASDA – as well as on Amazon and eBay UK. Last week, we announced a pan-European arrangement with Tech Data, which will provide device protection and replacement for millions of mobile customers. Over the next year, you’ll see us continuing to expand with both retailers and mobile carriers as we change the way people think about device protection, especially when it comes to their mobile devices.”

GC: What is SquareTrade’s track record to date?

KG: “Since launching, SquareTrade has helped millions of customers get their devices repaired or replaced in record time – and at a fraction of the cost. Our customer reviews speak for themselves.

GC: Where are you having most success in the UK to date?

KG: “ As I’ve mentioned, since launching in the UK SquareTrade has secured partnerships with the country’s biggest retailers including ASDA, Tesco, Amazon and eBay.”

GC: Do you have any particular news of recent and future developments you would want to share with the trade?

KG: “We’ve just announced a very exciting partnership with Tech Data Mobile Solutions that will help us bring the same reliability, transparency and trust that our American customers enjoy to millions of new European mobile users. We expect this arrangement to transform the mobile insurance market in Europe.

“Both companies are passionate about service; we have great customer service and claims management ability, while Tech Data Mobile has an international presence, and great distribution and logistics capabilities. No-one else in the market is currently able to bring customers, retailers and carriers with end-to-end mobile insurance programmes, streamlining the supply chain.”

APRIL 2014 GET CONNECTED

21

George Cole

GEORGE COLE G E T S

George Cole pinpoints hotspots in the world of consumer electronics

C O N N E C T E D

THE RISE AND RISE

OF WIFI W

iFi wireless technology is so widespread these days that it’s hard to imagine a time when we needed cables to connect most devices. But, in fact, WiFi has only been around since the turn of the century. Even so, research group Strategy Analytics reckons there are more than four billion WiFi-enabled consumer electronics devices around the world - an average of seven WiFi devices per WiFi household. Strategy Analytics says this figure will rise to seven billion by 2017.

You can find WiFi in a host of devices including smartphones, tablets, PCs, Blu-ray players, PVRs, games consoles, wireless speakers and Smart TVs. The success of WiFi has been based on two things. The first is that it’s a universally accepted standard. The second is that

YOUVIEW – STILL NO WIFI

One product that doesn’t include WiFi is the YouView set-top box, which gives TV users access to Freeview and online services such as iPlayer.

A recently launched second generation box still has no WiFi, which is a bit puzzling, as most people don’t keep their WiFi router in the living room, where the box is most likely to reside.

It means that YouView owners have to use a long Ethernet cable to connect the box to the router or use a Powerline adapter, which sends data along a household’s electrical wiring.

georgecole@gcmagazine.co.uk

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the technology is constantly evolving.

The first WiFi products used the 802.11b standard, which offered a top data speed of 11 megabits per second (Mbit/sec).

In 2003, 802.11g arrived, increasing the maximum data speed to 54 Mbit/sec.

Six years later, 802.11n came on the scene, offering a top data speed of 600 Mbit/sec. In February this year, a new standard, 802.11ac, was ratified (although the first products arrived in 2013).

The 802.11ac standard more than doubles the top data speed of 802.11n and offers other benefits as well. One of these is the use of the 5GHz frequency band, which is less crowded than the 2.4GHZ band used by existing WiFi standards. One of the problems with the 2.4GHZ band is that it’s also used by other devices (such as microwave ovens

and cordless phones) and it’s very easy for these devices (or your neighbour’s WiFi network), to interfere with your WiFi signal. Switching the router’s WiFI channel should solve the problem, but it’s not always effective. The only downside is that 802.11ac operates over a shorter range than 802.11n, but unless you live in a very large house, this shouldn’t be an issue for most consumers.

Like all new WiFi standards, products designed to use 802.11ac (such as routers) are backwards compatible with products using previous WiFi standards (the exception being first generation 802.11b devices, but few of these are in use today). And of course, 802.11ac is not the last word in WiFi evolution; plans are well in hand for the next generation of WiFi.

A SMART WAY TO UPGRADE YOUR TV Many consumers would like to have a Smart TV, but either can’t afford it, or can’t justify buying a new set, because their existing TV is only a few years old. Retailers have been able to offer these consumers a neat way of upgrading their set to a Smart TV, with a new set-top box, PVR or Blu-ray player that includes some Smart TV functionality, such as video streaming. Now, another option is about to come onto the market – the Smart TV stick. These tiny devices plug into a TV’s USB or HDMI port (in some cases, both) and allow standard sets to stream online content, such as catch-up TV services like BBC iPlayer and video from YouTube.

Google is set to launch such a product, but first out of the traps is Roku, which is launching its Streaming Stick in the UK this April. The Roku Streaming Stick - which will cost around £50, plugs into a spare HDMI port and is powered by the mains or the set’s USB port. The Streaming Stick uses 802.11n WiFi and Roku says it will offer around 750 channels, including YouTube, Netflix, iPlayer and 4OD. It means that retailers will soon be able to offer consumers several Smart TV options – a brand new Smart TV, a set-top box or Blu-ray player with Smart TV functionality, or a Smart TV stick.

From The Bench

Why curved?

tic in his views, Alan Bennett explains wh ent and pragma y he can d n e p e d n see few si y a T V e g s r c a l r e e w n e w s n – e l h b t u f t o significant dis A hape s d e v r u c a e d vantage in th s... virtues

L

ed by the Korean CE giants, TV manufacturers (with the notable exception of Sony) are introducing concave-curved screens in their big new 4K/UHD TV sets, as shown at CES2014.

Will this really enhance viewing – or is it simply because they can?

CLAIMS

Many and various are the claims made by setmakers for this new shape, which is curved only in the horizontal plane. They tell us that it offers a more compelling viewing experience, and the greater the curve the more immersed the viewer becomes. A wider field of view and perspective, they suggest, comes from reducing the distance between the viewer’s eye and the screen’s corners. The curve of some screens is matched to that of the surface of the human eye, and the eye is naturally drawn to strong curves. A curved screen, it’s claimed, looks bigger, improves motion, and appears more natural. So convinced of these advantages is Samsung that it has declared that all of its new giant 4K/UHD screens will be this shape. Some models, from this and other manufacturers, may have remote control of the panel’s shape, adjustable from flat to quite sharply curved.

REAL WORLD

Let’s look at these claims one by one.

The only really immersive viewing is on a wrap-around screen which shuts out everything else in the viewing area, like Cinema180. Once the eyes and brain lose touch with their real surroundings the image takes over, and on some content your stomach becomes involved – and your balance!

I cannot see why, other things being equal, a curved display should look any bigger or more natural, or improve motion.

Nor can I understand the relevance of a match between the curvature of the screen and that of the human eye, which is

basically a lens, and curved like any other.

Our eyes are drawn to strong curves, we are told. This may or may not be true in the context of a viewing screen, but so what? If you are watching a UHD action movie the radiator or the room door is not going to offer much competition, is it? With the set switched off, do we want our eyes to be drawn to a huge expanse of blank screen?

The ‘sweet spot’ for viewing a curved screen is smaller than that (about 50° cone) for a flat one. That reduces the number of viewers who can get the best from it. Shouldn’t a 65 or 78-inch screen

embrace a wider audience than a smaller flat one? Away from the sweet spot there is some degree (degree!) of geometric distortion in a curved picture because much of it is being viewed at an angle, and the farther you move from pole position the greater this becomes: what about large families and sports or movie viewing with a bunch of mates and a crate of beer? The side of the picture nearest the off-axis viewer appears compressed and thus distorted.

Another disadvantage of curved screens, it seems to me, is the effective increase in their physical depth, whether stand- or wall-mounted. You cannot really use the space behind the screen sides or in front of its centre, and with a really big screen this is considerable, so that a stand-mounted panel demands more room, and a wall-mounted one presents a collision risk for someone

wielding a vacuum cleaner or answering a call of nature – or the doorbell. One of the beauties of a truly thin and flat screen is its saving of space when wall-mounted, making viable a big image in a small room.

FLATTENING IT OUT

The history of TV screens has been largely a quest for true flatness. The first picture tubes were bulbous to withstand atmospheric pressure. Gradually they became flatter at the expense of increased weight in the thickened glass faceplates, and their corners became more nearly square. Sony Trinitron tubes were flat in the vertical plane and slightly curved (convex) in the horizontal plane, and very impressive they looked at the time. We progressed to the flat square screen (FST) which was neither, but nearly so. Its virtues were much trumpeted in its day, and rightly so. The only concavecurved screens were those used in the now long-gone race of ungainly integrated frontprojection sets, in a desperate attempt to maximise (by directional light gain) the barelyadequate light from CRT image sources.

They too had a small viewing sweet spot because of their pronounced curvature.

INVITATION

I really don’t like to debunk any new technology or innovation, but I truly cannot see that curved screens at home offer any real advantages over flat ones, and the drawbacks I envisage seem to me to be big ones. Is this a worthwhile or desirable enhancement or is it really a fad or fashion thing, done just because the manufacturers can? Curved screens may appear in my shop in the fullness of time but not in my home! If you have any views or comments on this as a dealer, manufacturer or whatever I would be grateful to have them, care of the Editor at the address on page three here. Am I being too pernickety?

Would you expect to sell lots of curved screens? Please let me know.

APRIL 2014 GET CONNECTED

23

Backchat

Why did you choose to work in the electrical industry?

I got into it by accident. I started my career working in a warehouse for a kitchen distributor and have been in the industry ever since Why have you decided to sponsor the 2014 British Manufacturing & Retailing Awards (EMRAs)?

It’s always good to support our industry and sponsoring the EMRAs gives Gorenje a fantastic platform to promote our brand

SPONSORS

THE BRITISH ELECTRICAL MANUFACTURING AND RETAILING AWARDS 2014

2-minute

Interview

How would you describe yourself?

Honest, hardworking, passionate

What’s your favourite cuisine?

Indian

You have been offered He’s an honest, hardworking family man who has a leading role in a compassion for the disadvantaged, but he likes a drop of film of your choice, the Tennessee hard stuff, and could see himself running what character would out in the red and white stripes onto the hallowed turf of the How do you think you like to play? others see you?

Maximus from Stadium of Light – or battling with gladius in hand at the Hopefully the above Gladiator Circus Maximus. He also has a keen eye for a commercial opportunity, and is sponsoring the 2014 EMRAs – Do you have any hidden You have been offered talents? the opportunity to rule another chance (though under a different code) to the world for a day. What I used to play football at emerge from the players’ tunnel onto the hallowed would be the first change a very high level and had turf of Twickenham Stadium. Meet you would make? trials for Sunderland and , national sales manager of Middlesbrough as a teenager Make sure all the homeless What makes you laugh?

My kids and a good comedy film What was the greatest turning point in your life?

The birth of my four girls What’s your greatest regret?

Never becoming a professional footballer What’s your pet hate?

Laziness Do you have any bad habits?

Supporting Sunderland football club If you weren’t in your present position, what job would you choose to do?

Professional footballer What’s your favourite TV programme?

At the moment The Following or True Detective 24

GET CONNECTED APRIL 2014

Gorenje UK

Eavesdroppings This little conversation picked up from someone who works in a TV shop and takes calls for sales and tech support: Caller: “No. It still won’t work.”

Me: “OK. Try pressing menu.”

Caller: “There is no menu button.”

Me: “Try going to channel 123 and tell me what the screen looks like. You should see the numbers appear in the top right corner.”

Caller: *beep* *beep* *beep* “No, still nothing.”

Me: “Just try pressing ‘1’.”

Caller: *beep* Me: “Um… you’re pressing the numbers on your telephone. You need to press them on your TV remote.”

But the customer, even this one, is always right?

have a roof over their heads

Favourite quote?

“Fail to prepare, prepare to fail” Name your poison Jack Daniel’s and Coke What do you daydream about?

A nice holiday with the family somewhere exotic and warm Who do you most admire?

Richard Branson. Successful at everything he gets behind and promotes What’s your favourite piece of kit?

Mobile phone – also the bane of my life!

What motto do you live by?

Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself Tomorrow I will… ...hopefully catch up on all of my emails and phone calls.

The British EMRAs 2014 - Nominations and voting

The British EMRAs 2014 SPONSORED BY:

Supported by this winning team of leading industry brands, the British Electrical Manufacturing and Retailing Awards (EMRAs) is moving into its Final stage.

Nominations for the Manufacturers’ Awards categories are now closed, and it’s over to you, the readers of Get Connected Magazine, to vote for which of them will lift a winner’s trophy at the EMRAs Gala Awards Night in Twickenham Stadium - the iconic home of English Rugby, where legends are made - on May 15th.

VOTE NOW

Your votes count

It’s easy and quick to cast your votes.

Hundreds of you have already voted online, so if that’s your preferred method, go to www.emra-online.co.uk and vote for your favourites.

If you prefer a postal vote, look through the list of nominees on the following pages, select the ones you believe deserve an EMRA accolade, turn to the voting form on page 34, tick the

appropriate boxes and post the form (or a photocopy) to: The British EMRAs, Get Connected Magazine, Greyfriar Cottage, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, Hampshire GU34 1SB. Every one of the nominees listed in the following pages is already a winning example of the world class products, services and achievements that our industry is so good at.

But only you, with your votes, can decide which will receive the ultimate accolade and lift a trophy at Twickenham Stadium on May 15th.

APRIL 2014 GET CONNECTED

25

The British EMRAs 2014 - Nominations and voting

The British EMRAs 2014: It’s time for the readers of Get Connected to have the final say on who will be lifting an EMRA trophy at Twickenham on May 15th. All the nominees are listed here.

CATEGORY: LEADING DESIGN – AUDIO & IMAGING LG Micro Hi-Fi with 2.1 ch 40 watts and integrated subwoofer | Panasonic SC-NA10 Portable Wireless Speaker System | Panasonic HC-X920 Camcorder | Pure Jongo multiroom music system | Sony SRS-X9 Wireless High Resolution Audio Speaker | Sony Walkman NWZ-ZX1 | Sony Cyber-shot™ RX100 II | Sony α7 Series interchangeable lens camera

CATEGORY: LEADING DESIGN – COOKING AEG HK874400FB MaxiSense Induction Hob | Beko OIM25603X A-40% Built-in Oven | Beko OIM25901X Bistro Oven | BEST Fluttua Wall Mounted Hood | Bosch FlexInduction Hob PIZ975N7E | Britannia Living Delphi 100cm XG Gas Range Cooker RC-1OXGG-DE-RED | DeDietrich DOS1160X Touch Control Multifunction Pyroclean Oven | DeDietrich DTi1358DG CHEF 65cm Dual Zoneless Induction Hob | GDHA Belling Fanned Gas Collection (FSG55TCF, FSG60DOF) | Gorenje IQCook IQ741AXC Induction Hob | Gorenje HomeCHEF BOP9958AX Oven |

GDHA Belling Fanned Gas Collection (FSG55TCF, FSG60DOF) Belling’s new suite of freestanding cookers features GDHA’s proprietary ‘fanned gas’ technology, delivering improved cooking performance and perfect baking results.

The collection, which is available in 55cm twin cavity and 60cm double oven models, uses a unique combination of radiant and convected heat to deliver heightened accuracy and replicate the even cooking temperature of a fanned oven with the moist cooking environment of a gas oven.

An on/off switch allows the user to switch seamlessly between conventional gas or fanned gas cooking and the cookers include four burner gas hobs, including a large 4kw wok burner, cast iron pan supports, push button ignition and lid. www.belling.co.uk

Beko OIM25603X EcoSmart A-40% Built-in Oven The state of the art multi-function OIM25603X EcoSmart oven is 40% more energy efficient than a standard A class, offering a substantial saving on running costs. This super energy efficient model doesn’t compromise on style, with a modern, linear design, sleek brushed steel finish and an animated touch control programmable LED timer.

On top of its squeaky clean eco credentials, this oven offers the flexibility of 12 functions and a generous 65 litre oven capacity. Its glass doors also have an easy-clean Nano technology unique to Beko which helps to prevent the build-up of dirt and grease. For further details: www.beko.co.uk

26

The British EMRAs 2014 - Nominations and voting

The Nominations...

You may vote for as many as you choose. Just make your selections then use the voting form on page 34, or vote online at www.emra-online.co.uk

CATEGORY: LEADING DESIGN – TV/AV LG 55-inch Curved OLED TV (55EA980W) | Panasonic Smart VIERA TX-L65WT600 Samsung HW-H750 Soundbar | Samsung U8500 Curved UHD TV | Sony BRAVIA X9 4K TV

Hoover Prodige 78-litre Oven | Leisure CS110F722X Cuisinemaster | Neff Slide&Hide® Oven: B46C74N3GB | Neff I99L59N0GB AirDeluxe 300 Downdraft Hood | Neff T54T97N2 Flexinduction Hob | Panasonic KY-B84BXBXD Induction Hob | Rangemaster Hi-LITE Oven | SMEG SFP140 60cm Linea Pyrolytic Multifunction Oven | Whirlpool MAX 35 Collection of freestanding microwaves | Wolf Dual Fuel Range | Zanussi ZOS37902XD Space+ Steam Oven

Leisure CS110F722X Cuisinemaster We’re thrilled to be nominated for Leading Design in Cooking for our new Leisure Cuisinemaster CS110F722X. New for 2014, it challenges the thinking that range cookers are for old country homes with its striking contemporary design. With the addition of a third oven, slow cook capabilities and a programmable animated timer, this cooker gives consumers total flexibility and control. We are continuing to support retailers through initiatives including our forthcoming cashback promotion offering up to £200 across our new Leisure family collection.

For further details www.leisurecooker.co.uk

Rangemaster Hi-LITE Oven Proud to be at the forefront of cutting edge design, Rangemaster announces the launch of its brand new illuminated range cooker: The Hi-LITE. With its fresh, modern look, the Hi-LITE cooker features a stylish illuminated fascia, perfect for creating a subtle lighting effect after dark. A contrasting slim glass surface complements this feature providing a striking, sharp finish to the product, making the Hi-LITE a truly stand out range cooker, guaranteed to enlighten the modern kitchen design. The ultimate cooking companion for contemporary kitchens, the Hi-LITE has a clean, crisp finish that delivers on performance as well as design. www.rangemaster.co.uk

27

The British EMRAs 2014 - Nominations and voting

CATEGORY: LEADING DESIGN – COOLING Beko GNE114610APX American-style Fridge Freezer | Beko CFF5873G 3-door Fridge/Freezer | Fisher & Paykel RF 540ADUSX4 Fridge/Freezer with ActiveSmart | LG Door-in-Door American Style Fridge Freezer (GS9366AEAV) | Maytag 5MF1267AA Fridge Freezer |

Beko CFF5873G EcoSmart 3 Door Fridge Freezer Beko extended its innovative ‘multi-zone’ technology into the 60cm category with this EcoSmart three door fridge freezer.

In addition to being a standard fridge freezer, the middle door on the appliance cleverly houses a ‘multi-zone’ compartment which allows householders to switch from fridge to freezer or vice versa with the simple press of a button – ideal when extra space is required.

The brushed steel model (CFF6873GX) is completely frost-free and has a storage capacity of 270 litres. Boasting blue light technology to keep fruit and vegetables fresher for longer, this new model really is the ultimate in cooling technology, offering consumers a range of chilled storage solutions for their home.

For further details go to www.beko.co.uk

CATEGORY: LEADING DESIGN – DISHWASHING Beko DSFN6839W Dishwasher | Bosch SMS69L32GB Logixx 60cm Dishwasher freestanding 38dB EcoSilence | DeDietrich DVH1180GJ 60cm Fully Integrated Dishwasher | Fisher & Paykel DD60DCHX7 DishDrawer™ | Hoover 3D Dishwasher | LG A+++ TrueSteam™ Dishwasher (D1484) | Maytag MDW 0713 AGW Dishwasher | Panasonic NP-B6M1FIGB Dishwasher | Siemens iQ500 SN66T095GB Dishwasher with timeLight | Siemens iQ700 SN26T597GB freestanding Zeolith® Dishwasher | SMEG DF6FABR2 60cm 50s Retro Freestanding Dishwasher | Whirlpool ADP 8693 A++ PC 6S WH Dishwasher | Zanussi ZDF140021WA freestanding Dishwasher

CATEGORY: LEADING DESIGN – LAUNDRY Beko WDA91440W Washer/Dryer | Bosch WAS28761GB Automatic Washing Machine | Gorenje Colour Edition Washing Machine W8543 | Hoover Aquavision Tumble Dryer with Heat Pump Technology | Hoover All in One 11kg Washing Machine | LG F1695RDH 12/8kg Washer Dryer | Maytag MWA 10149 WH Washing Machine | Panasonic NA-140VZ4 Washing Machine | Samsung WW9000 Washing Machine | Siemens WM14Y590GB i-Dos iQ700 Washing Machine | Whirlpool WWCR 9435/2 washing machine

28

The British EMRAs 2014 - Nominations and voting

Panasonic NR-B53V2-XB Fridge Freezer | Samsung Food ShowCase Refrigerator | SMEG FAB30RFW Fridge Freezer | Sub-Zero Wolf ICBBI-48SID Fridge/Freezer with Internal Ice and Water Dispenser | Whirlpool WBA 33992 NFC IX freestanding Fridge/Freezer

Fisher & Paykel French Door Fridge/Freezer RF540ADUSX4 This French door fridge/freezer from F&P provides uninterrupted access to 800mm wide shelves, numerous shelving options for easy customisation and spacious full extension drawer & storage bins for ergonomic storage of freezer items.

The appliance has a fully integrated, through-the-door ice & water system, and the fridge contents are protected by the unique Fisher & Paykel ActiveSmart™ system which ensures foodstuffs are kept at the optimum temperature, maintaining a consistent and controlled environment, correcting temperature changes when the fridge door is opened and adjusting automatically to changes in the surrounding environment.

For further details go to www.fisherpaykel.co.uk

Beko DSFN6839W EcoSmart Dishwasher The premium DSFN6839W uses just six litres of water to clean an entire load. As well as its ultra-low water usage, it is A+ energy rated so appeals to consumers who are increasingly concerned about the growing cost of utility bills.

Packed with a variety of helpful programmes and features, this model is so popular with consumers that its average customer review score is 9.1 out of 10 and it has over 1,000 Facebook recommendations. The interior offers full basket flexibility including height adjustable shelves and folding plate supports to suit all types of crockery. Other benefits include a low 43dB noise level and sleek LED display.

For further details go to www.beko.co.uk

Beko WDA91440W EcoSmart Washer/Dryer Setting it apart from other models on the market, this premium model has a unique drying cycle that does not require water to cool down the condenser. Instead, it simply uses air; a technique which can significantly reduce water bills.

The large capacity WDA91440W can clean a full 9kg load in under 39 minutes, offering consumers a considerable time-saving benefit that helps them to spend less time on laundry chores. This model is currently being supported with a high profile TV campaign that focuses on these fantastic benefits and also reinforces Beko’s quality credentials, highlighting the 9 out of 10 average customer review score across the large capacity washing machine range.

For further details go to www.beko.co.uk

29

The British EMRAs 2014 - Nominations and voting

CATEGORY: LEADING DESIGN – LAUNDRY Gorenje Colour Edition washing machine Gorenje’s Colour Edition washing machine is a vibrant, stylish and energy efficient appliance. It boasts market-leading features and is available in black, white, fiery red, aluminium and orange.

With an energy rating of A+++, the 8kg machine offers SensoIQ technology which automatically optimises the washing process, delivering significant energy and time savings. The model uses technology to enhance the user experience with features including a self cleaning programme and user-friendly LED display.

Offering SuperSilent operation, child protection and an unrivalled five-year warranty, the Gorenje Colour Edition washing machine is the ideal addition to any family home.

020 8247 39 80 www.gorenje.co.uk

CATEGORY: LEADING DESIGN – MDA COLLECTION Britannia Living Range Cooker Collection: Delphi, Q-Line, Fleet and Wyre | GDHA Belling Sebastian Conran Collection | InSinkErator Evolution food waste disposers range | LG GSL545 Refrigeration Series | Panasonic Integrated Appliances Range

InSinkErator® Evolution food waste disposers InSinkErator® is the global leader and inventor of food waste disposers. These great products offer multiple advantages, including making life easier, time savings, as well as disposing of food waste responsibly.

InSinkErator®’s food waste disposers are affordable, convenient and super-efficient. They are quite simply one of the most valuable allies a modern kitchen can have. They are clean, hygienic and reduce the build-up of waste in kitchen bins.

Waste disposers are playing an increasingly critical environmental role in managing food scraps, affording the potential to grind waste so it can be used for biogas or fertiliser, reducing the planet’s carbon footprint and offering a sustainable solution to food waste. www.insinkerator.co.uk

CATEGORY: LEADING DESIGN – FLOORCARE AEG UltraPower | Bosch BGS5SILGB GS-50 Power Silence vacuum | Bosch BGS5ECOGB GS-50 Compact Eco vacuum | Panasonic MC-CL934 vacuum cleaner | Samsung VF20F7OHDER Motion Sync Sensor vacuum cleaner

30

The British EMRAs 2014 - Nominations and voting

Hoover Aquavision tumble dryer with heat pump technology The Hoover Aquavision tumble dryer uses 40% less energy than conventional condenser dryers and is the perfect solution for anyone looking for an efficient and environmentally friendly tumble dryer.

It features an in-door water reservoir that makes it easy to judge when collected condensed water needs emptying.

The innovative heat pump technology ensures that the drying process is extremely quiet and allows a continuous process of rapid cooling and hot air recycling, which means that the energy is kept within the machine instead of being allowed to escape.

Contact: 0151 334 2781 www.hoover.co.uk

Belling’s first designer collaboration Leading British cooking appliance brand Belling’s striking new collection of built-in ovens, hobs and hoods designed by Sebastian Conran is sophisticated and modern.

The new Belling Design • Sebastian Conran collection includes two oven sizes, a choice of gas or induction hobs and stylish yet functional hoods. The ovens, gas hobs and hoods all come in five colour-ways to create a co-ordinated look in the kitchen: Duck Egg Blue; Pastel Green; Icy Brook White; Anthracite and Aluminum.

The collection stays true to Conran’s design ethos and features design innovations such as built-in utensil rails and ovens with solid metal knobs inspired by the switches on 1940s fighter planes. www.belling.co.uk

Britannia Living Range Cooker Collection Premium kitchen appliance specialist Britannia’s range cooker collection includes the stylish Delphi, Q-Line, Fleet and Wyre. Each model incorporates technologically advanced features including a nine-function electric oven, QUICKSTART technology and stay-clean oven liners.

Model sizes range from 90cm to 120cm and they are available in a variety of configurations, including with a single or twin oven or even in the XG model. A five-zone induction hob or a single-pressed six-ring gas hob can also be selected.

As well as being available in a variety of styles, finishes and colours, these range cookers can also be colour-matched using Britannia’s unique Colourange service.

Contact: 0843 507 3433 www.britannialiving.co.uk

AEG UltraPower cordless vacuum cleaner The powerful AEG UltraPower cordless cleaner has an exceptionally long run time of 60 minutes on one charge. AEG’s innovative BRUSHROLLCLEAN™ technology addresses a problem that no other vacuum manufacturer has been able to solve. At the touch of a button, fibres and entwined hairs are removed from the brush roll by a separation bar and sucked into the dust cup. This saves users the timeconsuming and annoying task of cleaning the brush roll and prevents frequent clogging. Plus, its flexible floor nozzle with headlights has been designed to help clean tight and hard-to-reach spaces.

AEG: 08445 614 614 www.aeg.co.uk

31

The British EMRAs 2014 - Nominations and voting

CATEGORY: LEADING DESIGN – SMALL APPLIANCES Bosch TDA7060GB iTemp Iron | Bosch MCM68861GB Cool Grey Food Processor | Electrolux Home Comfort Range of Air Conditioners and Dehumidifiers | Groupe SEB Tefal Optigrill GC701D40 | Kenwood Chef White Titanium KMC015 | KitchenAid Artisan Range | Panasonic Breakfast Set

Tefal Optigrill: perfect grilling, every time Tefal’s latest technology, OptiGrill, delivers superb grill results, from rare to well done, every time and guarantees restaurant-quality steak at home.

Judging precisely when a steak is done is a tricky culinary skill to master, but using the Tefal OptiGrill is like having a professional grill chef at home. Meat is cooked to personal preferences each time.

OptiGrill has automatic settings with dedicated cycles for steak, burgers, chicken, bacon, sausages and fish, plus a manual option perfect for grilling fresh seasonal vegetables. A colour-changing LED display shows the cooking progress and beeps to indicate when food is ready. www.tefaloptigrill.co.uk

CATEGORY: LEADING RETAIL TRAINING/SUPPORT Freesat | LG | Sony Alpha = Alfa and Drive4Colour sales support schemes

The British EMRAs 2014 SPONSORED BY:

32

Introducing Kenwood’s New Chef

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• Includes a Thermoresist™

blender, shatterproof Tritan™ foodprocessor, Borosilicate glass 4.6L bowl, 3 stainless steel bowl tools plus creaming beater

• Kenwood is the No. 1 brand in Kitchen Machines*

• All the quality, reliability and durability associated with the brand and the Kenwood range of kitchen machines

• Over 20 optional premium quality

attachments for slow, medium and high speed outlets Available Now

Contact your local Sales Manager for more information

Free Kenwood Kitchen recipes app also available to download

App is also available on the Amazon app store

App is now available on AndroidTM devices

Tel: +44 239 239 2392 kenwoodworld.com/uk Kenwood Ltd, New Lane, Havant, Hampshire PO9 2NH

*Source: GfK UK, Food Preparation, Volume and Value Sales, MAT March 2013 - February 2014.

CREATE

MORE

The British EMRAs 2014 - Nominations and voting

Welcome to the voting for the British EMRAs 2014 Vote online at www.emra-online.co.uk or use this form to place your votes by post (see voting information on page 25).

LEADING DESIGN - AUDIO & IMAGING

LEADING DESIGN - LAUNDRY

 LG Micro Hi-Fi with 2.1ch 40 watts and integrated subwoofer  Panasonic SC-NA10 Portable Wireless Speaker System  Panasonic HC-X920 Camcorder  Pure Jongo multiroom music system  Sony SRS-X9 Wireless High Resolution Audio Speaker  Sony Walkman NWZ-ZX1  Sony Cyber-shot™ RX100 II  Sony A7 Series interchangeable lens camera

 Beko WDA91440W Washer/Dryer  Bosch WAS28761GB Automatic washing machine  Gorenje Colour Edition washing machine W8543  Hoover Aquavision Tumble Dryer with Heat Pump Technology  Hoover All in One 11kg Washing Machine  LG F1695RDH 12/8kg Washer Dryer  Maytag MWA 10149 WH washing machine  Panasonic NA-140VZ4 Washing Machine  Samsung WW9000 Washing Machine  Siemens WM14Y590GB i-Dos iQ700  Whirlpool WWCR 9435/2 washing machine

LEADING DESIGN - TV/AV     

Samsung HW-H750 Soundbar LG 55” Curved OLED TV (55EA980W) Panasonic Smart VIERA TX-L65WT600 Samsung U8500 Curved UHD Sony BRAVIA X9 4K TV

LEADING DESIGN - COOKING                      

34

AEG HK874400FB MaxiSense Induction Hob Beko OIM25603X A-40% Built-in oven Beko OIM25901X Bistro oven BEST Fluttua Wall Mounted Hood Bosch FlexInduction hob PIZ975N7E Britannia Living Delphi 100cm XG Gas Range Cooker in Red DeDietrich DOS1160X Touch Control Multifunction Pyroclean Oven DeDietrich DTi1358DG CHEF 65cm Dual Zoneless Induction Hob GDHA Belling Fanned Gas collection (FSG55TCF, FSG60DOF) Gorenje IQCook IQ741AXC Induction Hob Gorenje HomeCHEF BOP9958AX Oven Leisure CS110F722X Hoover Prodige 78-litre Oven Neff Slide&Hide® oven: B46C74N3GB Neff I99L59N0GB AirDeluxe 300 Downdraft hood Neff T54T97N2 FlexInduction Hob Panasonic KY-B84BXBXD Induction Hob Rangemaster Hi-LITE Oven SMEG SFP140 60cm Linea Pyrolitic Multifunction Oven Whirlpool MAX 35 Collection of freestanding microwaves Wolf Dual Fuel Range Zanussi : ZOS37902XD Space+ Steam oven

LEADING DESIGN REFRIGERATION/COOLING  Beko GNE114610APX American-style Fridge Freezer  Beko CFF5873G 3-door Fridge/Freezer  Fisher & Paykel RF 540ADUSX4 Fridge/ Freezer with ActiveSmart  LG Door-in-Door American Style Fridge Freezer (GS9366AEAV)  Maytag 5MF1267AA fridge freezer  Panasonic NR-B53V2-XB fridge freezer  Samsung Food ShowCase Refrigerator  SMEG FAB30RFW fridge freezer  Sub-Zero Wolf ICBBI-48SID Fridge/Freezer  Whirlpool : WBA 33992 NFC IX freestanding Fridge/Freezer

LEADING DESIGN - DISHWASHING  Beko DSFN6839W Dishwasher  Bosch SMS69L32GB Logixx 60cm dishwasher free standing  DeDietrich DVH1180GJ 60cm Fully Integrated Dishwasher  Fisher & Paykel DD60DCHX7 DishDrawer™  Hoover 3D Dishwasher  LG A+++ TrueSteam™ Dishwasher (D1484)  Maytag MDW 0713 AGW dishwasher  Panasonic NP-B6M1FIGB Dishwasher  Siemens iQ500 SN66T095GB dishwasher with timeLight  Siemens iQ700 SN26T597GB freestanding Zeolith® dishwasher  SMEG DF6FABR2 60cm 50s Retro Freestanding Dishwasher  Whirlpool ADP 8693 A++ PC 6S WH Dishwasher  Zanussi Zanussi ZDF140021WA freestanding dishwasher

LEADING DESIGN - MDA COLLECTIONS  Britannia Living Range Cooker Collection: Delphi, Q-Line, Fleet and Wyre  GDHA Belling Sebastian Conran Collection  In-Sink-Erator Evolution food waste disposers range  LG GSL545 Refrigeration Series  Panasonic Integrated Appliances Range

LEADING DESIGN - FLOORCARE  AEG UltraPower  Bosch BGS5SILGB Bosch GS-50 Power Silence vacuum  Bosch BGS5ECOGB Bosch GS-50 Compact Eco vacuum  Panasonic MC-CL934 Vacuum cleaner  Samsung VF20F7OHDER Motion Sync Sensor

LEADING DESIGN - SMALL APPLIANCES  Bosch TDA7060GB Bosch iTemp Iron  Bosch MCM68861GB Cool Grey Food Processor  Electrolux Home Comfort Air Conditioners and Dehumidifiers  Groupe SEB Tefal Optigrill GC701D40  Kenwood Chef White Titanium KMC015  KitchenAid Artisan Range  Panasonic Breakfast Set

RETAIL TRAINING/SUPPORT  Freesat  LG  Sony: Alpha = Alfa and Drive4Colour sales support schemes

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