Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

MAY 2016

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

AUDIO & DIGITAL STREAMING The constantly evolving world of audio

GEORGE COLE GETS CONNECTED Selling UHD TV: what could possibly go wrong?

FROM THE BENCH Broadband speeds for TV

BACKCHAT 2-minute interview with CDA’s Steve Corbett

PLUS INTEGRAL

COOKING 17 SUPPLEMENT

FOOD PREPARATION:

Healthy outlook for premiumend sales

BUILT-IN APPLIANCES: Capturing the market

FREESTANDING APPLIANCES:

A sector not to be ignored

COFFEE MACHINES:

Consumer spend continues to grow

PLUS…

THE GOURMET QUARTER: Manufacturers promote a selection of their latest products

STEAMBAKE HAS ARRIVED TIME TO TURN UP THE HEAT

Dirt has nowhere to hide

Does not apply to all models

The NEW SEBO AIRBELT E Range The strong, silent type Help your customers take cleaning to a new level with the SEBO AIRBELT E vacuum cleaner.

The super-quiet, yet extremely powerful motor, variable suction, free-rolling castors, long cleaning range and easy to hold handle, make cleaning much easier‌ and quieter.

It looks good on display too!

SEBO. Tough on dirt.

01494 465533

info@sebo.co.uk For a chance to win a SEBO vacuum cleaner, enter our monthly draw at:

www.sebo.co.uk

CONTENTS

INSIDE...

04 Editorial Comment 06 The Word

In and around the industry

13 27

JURA E8 CHROME https://uk.jura.com

Editor in Chief: Marlinda Conway Telephone: 01420 886 33 marlinda@gcmagazine.co.uk Magazine Advertising Sales: Brian Shilling Telephone: 01892 677 741 brian@gcmagazine.co.uk

Subscriptions & Circulation: (GCCD) Telephone: 01420 886 33 circulation@gcmagazine.co.uk Creative Director: Will Dobson will@gcmagazine.co.uk

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

Advertisement Production Administration: Will Dobson Telephone: 01342 850 456 artwork@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

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.

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

© Copyright 2016 Mud Hut Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

George Cole Gets Connected Selling a UHD TV has never been easier – or harder!

14 Audio & Digital Streaming

GC looks at how the audio market is evolving

16 From the Bench

TV streaming and downloading via IP – Alan Bennett discusses the need for speed

17

Integral Cooking Supplement Featuring:

18 Food Preparation Appliances

20 Built-in Cooking Appliances

26 The Gourmet Quarter

28 Freestanding Cooking Appliances 30 Coffee Machines 34 Backchat

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

www.gcmagazine.co.uk

2-minute interview with Steve Corbett, Marketing Manager for Nottinghamshirebased appliance firm CDA

MAY 2016 GET CONNECTED

3

EDITORIAL COMMENT

COMMENT THE HIGH STREET IS BOOMING. IT’S PRODUCING REMARKABLE RETURNS FOR SKILLED OPERATORS WHO REALLY KNOW HOW TO SEIZE THEIR OPPORTUNITIES… BUT NOT, IRONICALLY, FOR ACTUAL RETAILERS.

for your FREE COPY of Get Connected Magazine

www.gcmagazine.co.uk

BHS

is the latest example of how a tidy profit can be turned from an ailing retail empire that collapses leaving 11,000 retail workers in jeopardy, £1.3 billion in debts to other businesses who will not now be paid, and 20,000 pension scheme members with a £521 million deficit in their BHS pension pot that may now have to be (if only partially) made up by the Governmentadministered Pension Protection Fund.

Sir Philip Green sold BHS to an investment outfit called Retail Acquisitions in 2015 for £1. A bad deal for him, you might say, given that he bought the company for £200 million.

But his family benefited to the tune of £400 million in dividends during the period of ownership. Tax-free, of course, since Lady Green, who owns the operation Sir Philip runs, lives conveniently in the tax haven of Monaco.

It’s a familiar pattern: the sale of a retail institution to an “investment” company for a nominal sum, with promises to turn the business around. Sadly, this proves beyond the best efforts of the buyer, and administration remains the only option.

Remember, Comet was sold to OpCapita for £2 in 2011, and we know what happened in the debacle that followed. Or at least, we know some of what happened, such as the unpaid suppliers, the staff made redundant with no funds for redundancy payments…

But for some reason we can only guess, the Government has decreed that we will not be told the findings of the enquiry into this particular affair. So we pay for the enquiry but won’t be allowed to know its outcomes.

In the case of BHS, that £1 price paid by Retail Acquisitions looks like a good deal.

4

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

Dominic Chappell, who heads up RA, took £540,000 in salary from BHS for the last year.

RA also “borrowed” £8.4 million from BHS to cover “professional fees” to third parties.

And a week before BHS collapsed, Mr Chappell transferred £1.5 million to an unrelated company called BHS Sweden, reportedly owned by “a friend.”

Loads’a money. And without the inconvenience or graft of actually having to sell stuff from a shop.

Big retail is being plundered by predators.

Small retail is struggling. And short of a radical change in the law, which won’t happen (David Cameron and George Osborne biting the hand that feeds them?), there’s nothing we can do about it.

So what’s the way forward for electrical retail in this hostile environment?

Could we see the regrowth of small, local, well managed, attentive specialist retailers who know their products, care about their customers and understand the synergy between bricks and mortar, the internet and social media, and can offer a “retail experience” that’s as much a social as a transactional event?

It’s not unprecedented. As the big brewers in the UK struggle, micro breweries are proliferating, offering craft beers that create passion and interaction with a customer base that believes it has a say in the product.

Retailers can’t brew their own craft electrical products. But with technology bringing almost daily advances in “custom” solutions to individual consumers’ needs, they can be the friendly, accessible, expert conduit through which these individual solutions are crafted.

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

De Dietrich Core and Premium ranges are now available ex-stock and come with a free 3 year parts and labour warranty* * On all Dietrich domestic appliances registered within 30 days of purchase in the UK.

www.dedietrichwarranty.com Telephone: 0844 847 7641

In Warranty Repairs Telephone: 0844 847 7641

Call us on 0844 557 3750 for more information.

Out of Warranty Service & Repairs Telephone: 0844 557 3701

Sales Office: 0844 557 3750 www.dedietrich.co.uk

INDUSTRY NEWS

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY

THE VERY LATEST ELECTRICAL GOODS INDUSTRY NEWS

APRIL MARKS THREE YEARS OF FALLING SHOP PRICES

S

hop prices recorded deflation for the 36th consecutive month in April with non-food deflation accelerating to 2.9%.

Overall prices fell 1.7% on the prior year and while food returned to inflationary territory, non-food experienced its 37th month of falling prices – deeper than the 2.7% 12-month average for the sector.

The British Retail consortium said that electricals were amongst the “excellent bargains” to be found.

ONLINE RETAIL SALES GROWTH ALMOST DOUBLES IN Q1 2016

O

nline retail sales growth almost doubled in the first quarter of 2016 and growth in sales made via smartphones far exceeded that of tablets.

According to the IMRG Capgemini eRetail Sales Index, year-on-year sales increased 15% (excluding travel) compared to 8% in the same quarter last year.

Average basket value (ABV) also increased, from £77 in Q1 2015 to £81 in Q1 2016, following a general decline throughout 2015.

The divergence between the use of tablets and smartphones for purchases also continued, with the latter showing a 101% increase year-on-year (excluding travel), compared to just 6% recorded for tablets.

IMRG said that overall Q1 smartphone usage grew almost nine times that of tablets – 96% against 11%.

CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REACHES 15-MONTH LOW

UK

consumer confidence fell to its lowest level in over a year as the forthcoming EU referendum and fears for the stability of the Eurozone dented public confidence in Britain’s economy.

GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index dropped three points in April to -3, the lowest point in 15 months, with all measures used to calculate the score decreasing.

Joe Staton, Head of Market Dynamics at GfK, said mixed messages about a postBrexit world and the ongoing Eurozone crisis are “casting a cloud” over our economy.

He added that consumer sentiment on the general economic situation in the UK

for the next year had dropped 20 points in 12 months.

“Against this backdrop, even faith in our personal economic fortunes has taken a battering, contributing to the overall fall in the numbers.”

The measure for the general economic situation in the UK during the last 12 months is now 17 points lower than in April 2015, and for the next 12 months 20 points lower than at this time last year.

JESSOPS OPENS BRIGHTON STORE P

hotographic specialist Jessops marked the opening of its 51st UK store with a ceremony attended by the local community.

The flagship store in North Street, Brighton will offer the full portfolio of Jessops services and a large range of cameras and accessories.

Jessops has established a strong portfolio of stores since it was rescued from administration by entrepreneur Peter Jones in 2013, but CEO Neil Old said its success is down to its multi-channel strategy, within which the high street plays a key role.

@GC_Team

CONCERNS GROW FOR THE RETAIL EMPLOYMENT MARKET

T

he latest BRC-Bond Dickinson Retail Employment Monitor recorded a 0.9% fall in full-time retail jobs for the first quarter of 2016, compared to the same period last year, and a 0.5% decline in the number of outlets, with food retailers driving the overall fall. The number of non-food outlets increased, after declining in the last quarter of 2015.

Christina Tolvas-Vincent, Head of Retail Employment at Bond Dickinson, said the retail sector is still undergoing a challenging time. “The vast majority of retailers intend to keep staffing levels unchanged over the next quarter, revealing a sense of uncertainty which could be attributable to June’s EU referendum. It is also likely that the recently implemented National Living Wage will be having an effect on the industry as one of the biggest employers in the UK,” she said.

In February this year, the BRC released a report suggesting that retailers could cut as many as 900,000 jobs by 2025. The organisation’s chief executive Helen Dickinson said the first-quarter’s employment numbers seem to suggest we have arrived at the beginning of that predicted trend.

“It is all about giving shoppers choice on how to buy, whether that’s in-store where they can get hands-on experience, by phone, online 24/7, or via the collect-atstore service.

“And this all comes with the reassurance that prices will be the same across all channels and benchmarked against the leading UK retailers with our ‘Price Match Promise’.

“The expertise of our staff also plays a big part in our success – last year more than 12,000 people enrolled on our nationwide

Academy Training courses to build on their photography skills.”

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

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

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UKGCMAGAZINE.CO.UK INDUSTRY NEWS

FAMILY FIRMS GENERATE MORE THAN A QUARTER OF UK GDP

A

report released by the Institute for Family Business and Oxford Economics has revealed the substantial contribution family firms make to the UK economy.

The study shows that such businesses employ in excess of 11.9 million people and make up 87% of all private sector firms in the UK. Leading the way is the retail, wholesale and repairs sector, with 470,000 businesses making up one in ten of all family firms and 89% of all private sector enterprises in the industry.

Since 2013, family businesses have increased employment by 6% and turnover has risen 2% to £1.3 trillion. This sector of the business

community also paid £125 billion in taxes and contributed 26% of the UK’s entire GDP. Commenting on the findings, Chairman of the IFB Peter Armitage said family businesses made a “phenomenal” contribution across all sectors, industries and regions.

“It’s an important reminder of how vital family-run firms are to the UK, serving as the backbone of our economy.

“Family businesses have always been at the very heart of the UK economy and based on the steady rise in their recruitment and turnover, it is clear they are here to stay.”

Official Partner of the Future since 1924

SHORTCUTS The Global Innovations Show

Panasonic has launched a new advertising campaign for its range of 4K HDR VIERA TVs, with a short film created in conjunction with awardwinning cinematographer Vanja Cernjul. The campaign debuted in cinemas on 29th April and launches on TV at the end of May.

IFA+ Summit Vision Meets Industry Your Early Bird Ticket! ifa-berlin.com /summit

Amica has confirmed it is offering a 5-year parts and labour warranty on all laundry products in its catalogue with a capacity of 7kg and above.

Whirlpool has extended its customer warranties to offer a 2-year labour and 10-year parts guarantee on its new range of appliances.

Consumers are being offered the chance to win a €2,500 cash prize as part of a promotion

by VARTA in selected retail stores throughout the UK. The ‘summer party’ competition is supported with retail POS solutions and a dedicated consumer website.

Grundig is supporting ‘Food for Soul’, a social and cultural non-profit organisation founded by the 3-star Michelin chef Massimo Bottura, which aims to make a positive impact on food waste through education and community involvement.

MAY 2016 GET CONNECTED

IFA-Contact: Overseas Trade Show Agencies Ltd. Tel. +44 20 7886 3000 otsa@otsa.net 7

INDUSTRY NEWS

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY

@GC_Team

IPO VALUES DISTRIBUTOR MIDWICH AT £165 MILLION

N

orfolk-based trade-only distributor Midwich Group got off to a premium start on the London Stock Exchange’s AIM, with its newly listed shares reaching almost 240 pence on their 6th May debut.

The distributor’s initial public offering was priced prior to the floatation at 208 pence per share, raising approximately £75.2 million and equating to a market

capitalisation of around £165.3 million on admission. £26 million of the proceeds are earmarked to pay down debt and to fund the final cash consideration

relating to the acquisition of German distributor Kern & Stelly.

Around £49.2 million is for the benefit of selling shareholders.

Stephen Fenby, Managing Director of Midwich, said the listing represented an important milestone in the Group's history.

“Becoming a public company will further enhance Midwich's leading competitive position as a specialist

AV and document solutions distributor to the trade market,” he said.

“I would like to welcome our new shareholders and I am very excited about the next stage of our journey as we continue to grow both in the UK and internationally."

Midwich Group has operations in the UK and Ireland, France, Germany and Australasia.

PROPOSED REDUNDANCIES AT TANNOY; POSSIBLE CLOSURE OF COATBRIDGE PLANT

T

ANNOY brand owner MUSIC is proposing to make around 70 staff redundant at its manufacturing and office facility in Coatbridge, Scotland.

The company said it has entered into the process of collective consultation with employees affected, and in the event that the redundancies are confirmed following the 30-day consultation,

the Coatbridge facility would cease operations completely.

TANNOY loudspeaker production would be transferred to MUSIC’s new 3 million ft2 manufacturing plant in Zhongshan, China; R&D and marketing activities would be relocated to MUSIC’s Innovation Centre in Manchester.

The announcement was delivered to employees by MUSIC’s Peter

time, I would like to thank our TANNOY employees for their immense dedication and loyalty over the years, which I feel confident will not be diminished even as we approach the forthcoming period of collective consultation.”

MUSIC said that all sales, order and delivery processes remain unaffected by the decision.

GLEN DIMPLEX’S NAUGHTON STEPS DOWN AS PRESIDENT

Visit www.gcmagazine.co.uk for the stories behind the news...

M

artin Naughton has stepped down as President and from the Executive Board of the Glen Dimplex Group of Companies. He will be succeeded

by Seán O’Driscoll as President of the Group.

The management changes will see Fergal Naughton succeed O’Driscoll as Chief Executive Officer. Michael Maher has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, Neil Naughton takes on the role of Deputy Chairman, and Martin McCourt, formerly of Dyson, joins as Non-Executive Chairman.

Sir Martin Naughton, KBE, founded Glen Electric in Northern Ireland and began trading as a manufacturer of oil-filled radiators in 1973. Within five years, the organisation embarked upon rapid expansion with the acquisition of British-based Dimplex, the UK’s market leader in electric heating, thus creating the Glen Dimplex Group – Ireland’s largest privately owned manufacturing business.

The Dundalk-born entrepreneur told Glen Dimplex staff: “I believe it is necessary to change the structure of the Group in order to drive its long-term profitable growth and success. But let us work together to make our companies even more exceptional.”

He added that he was also stepping down from the Executive Board, “but I may visit from time to time,” he said.

8

Sommer, Senior Vice President, Lifestyle & Home: “Following an extensive evaluation of our operational and financial structure, we have taken the difficult decision to propose that the staff in our TANNOY manufacturing and office facility in Coatbridge are dismissed as redundant which, if confirmed, would see the facility closed.

“Whilst this is a challenging

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

Naughton will remain as Chairman of the Shareholder Supervisory Board – a new Board has been formed to provide clear strategic counsel and direction to the Executive Board with specific focus on long-term performance objectives, the company said.

Off The Wall: 10 years and still going strong Smart home products from Panasonic achieve ULE certification Haier opens new factory in Russia Freesat launches Wuaki.tv application Gorenje introduces new freestanding appliance brochure

Focus on trends and deals for Christmas at this year’s Exclusively shows!

With the UK’s largest line-up of top-quality homewares suppliers under one roof, it’s easy to spot new market trends and get your Christmas orders placed.

ADDIS HOUSEWARES •

AEROLATTE • AMEFA

• ANNIVERSARY HOUSE • APOLLO HOUSEWARES •

ARTHUR PRICE • AUTEUR • AYDYA •

CHARLES BENTLEY & SON • BERGHOFF

WORLDWIDE • BHL GROUP • BLACK + BLUM •

BODUM • BOSKA CHEESEWARES • BRABANTIA •

BRITA • BURTON MCCALL • CHARLES VIANCIN • CITY

LOOK IMPORTS • COOKWARE CO • COUNTRY MATTERS •

CREATIVE PRODUCTS • CROWN TRENT • CULINARY CONCEPTS •

CURVER • DAVID MASON DESIGN • DENBY BRANDS • DKB HOUSEHOLD • DNC • THE DRH COLLECTION • DUBOST COLAS PRADEL • EATON HOME & DINING • E-CLOTH • ECOEGG • EDDINGTONS • ELIA • EMILE HENRY • EUROPASONIC • FAIRMONT & MAIN • FALCON PRODUCTS • FISKARS • FOSSEWAY TRADING • GEH • GILBERTS • GOURMET GADGETRY • GREEN PIONEER • I GRUNWERG • HAREWOOD INTERNATIONAL • HAUS • HORWOOD HOMEWARES • HOT PLATE PRODUCTS LTD • IC INNOVATIONS • ICB • ICTC • IMPERIAL INTERNATIONAL • JERAY • JOSEPH JOSEPH • JUST MUGS • JWP • KILNER • KIS • KUHN RIKON • LE CHATEAU TEXTILES • LE CREUSET • LEKUE • LURCH • LUXURY HOUSEWARES • MAGEFESA BY VITRINOR • MAHITTI • MASON CASH • MASTRAD • MAXWELL & WILLIAMS • METALTEX • MEYER • MICROPLANE • MY GIFTS TRADE • NAVIGATE • NEAT IDEAS • NORDIC WARE • OCTOPUS PUBLISHING • OXO GOOD GRIPS • PENDEFORD HOUSEWARES • PHA KITCHESSENTIALS • PLAN B MARKETING • PLASTICFORTE • POLDER • PREMIER HOUSEWARES • PRICE & KENSINGTON • PYREX • RAVENHEAD • READY STEADY COOK • RKW • ROBERT WELCH DESIGNS • ROOT 7 • ROSTI MEPAL • H&L RUSSEL • RYLAND PETERS & SMALL • SABICHI • SALTER • SCOTT BROTHERS • SIMPLEHUMAN • SISTEMA • SMASH GLOBAL • SODASTREAM • STERCK • SWAN PRODUCTS • T&G • TAYLOR’S EYE WITNESS • TEFAL • TERRAILLON • TONTARELLI • TRADESTOCK • TYPHOON • ULTIMATE PRODUCTS • VACU VIN • VILLEROY & BOCH • WESCO • WESTERN HOUSE • WHITEFURZE • WHITFORD • WILTON BRANDS • WORLD KITCHEN • ZODIAC STAINLESS PRODUCTS • ZWILLING J.A. HENCKELS • ARZUM ELEKTRIKLI • BENROSS GROUP • BEURER • CONNECT DISTRIBUTION • DUALIT • EPE INTERNATIONAL • EUROPASONIC • GROUPE SEB • HEALTHY FOODS/YONANAS • JURA PRODUCTS • JWP CHARACTER LIGHTING • KALORIK • KITCHENAID • MAGIMIX • MEYER • NUWAVE • RKW • SAGE APPLIANCES • SMART WORLDWIDE • SMARTWARES EUROPE • TEAM UKI • ULTIMATE • VITA-MIX EUROPE • WITT

Follow us on www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

Run by the industry, for the industry

Exclusively Housewares will run alongside its NEW sister show Exclusively Electrical, designed especially for small domestic appliance buyers

INDUSTRY NEWS

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY

Argos parent Home Retail Group reported full-year benchmark pre-tax profit down 28% to £94.7m. Sales fell 1% to £5,668m. Cash gross margin also fell, down 3% to £1,978m. The recommended offer from Sainsbury’s for the purchase of the business resulted in an exceptional goodwill impairment charge of £852m, leading to a total loss after tax of £808m.

Like-for-like sales at Argos fell 2.6% to £4,095m, principally driven by a decline in electricals. Benchmark operating profit fell 36% to £83.1m.

LG reported Q1 operating profit of KRW 505.2bn, a 65.5% rise on the same period in 2015, on sales of KRW 13.36tn. Home Appliances & Air Solutions contributed KRW 407.8bn, followed by Home Entertainment (HE), with KRW 335.2bn, both up significantly on Q1 2015. HE posted revenues of KRW 4.33 tn, down 2.3% as TV shipments declined in key markets. 7.7% Q-on-Q operating margin was accompanied by a 207% increase in operating income.

LG Mobile Comms posted an operating loss of KRW 202.2bn, primarily due to increased marketing expenditures.

Q1 net earnings at Whirlpool fell from $191m to $150m on the same prioryear period. Ongoing business earnings per share totalled a first-quarter record of $2.63, against $2.14, but shares in the company fell around 6% in early morning trading as earnings were below analysts’ expectations. Net sales fell from $4.8bn to $4.6bn.

Sony reported a net profit of ¥147.8bn for its 2015 fiscal year, against a loss of ¥120bn last year. Operating income increased from ¥68.5bn to ¥294.2bn on sales of ¥8,105.7bn, down 1.3% year on year. Declines in Mobile Comms due to a considerable fall in smartphone unit sales were partially offset by the Game & Network Services division. Sales in the HE & Sound division fell 6.4% due to a decline in unit sales of LCD TVs, home audio and video, but operating profit rose 109.8%. TV sales declined 4.5% on the decision not to pursue scale in order to improve profitability. TV operating profit increased by ¥17.5bn.

Moves OTONE Audio has appointed Steve Hadler to the role of National Account Manager.

Steve Hadler

Steve Moss

Electrolux posted a 158% increase in income for Q1 2016, to SEK 875m, and earnings per share up from SEK 1.18 to SEK 3.04. Operating income, at SEK 1,268m, was more than double that of the prior-year period. Net sales amounted to SEK 28,114m, a 3% decline on Q1 2015.

Samsung Electronics announced a 12% year-on-year increase in operating profit and a 5.7% increase in sales for the first-quarter of 2016.

Revenue was KRW 49.78tn and operating profit rose to KRW 6.68tn. Net profit increased from KRW 4.63tn to KRW 5.25tn.

Net sales at Amazon rose 28% year on year to $29.1bn in the first quarter.

Operating income was $1.1bn, against $255m in Q1 2015. Net income moved from a loss of $57m to a positive $513m.

Independent sales agency Big Red Sales has expanded its sales team. Robert McDougall (left) joins as UK Sales Manager, Steve Cox (centre) takes on the newly created position of National Accounts Manager, and former D&G National Account Director Jeff Griffiths (right) has been appointed to look after the South West territory.

Steve Moss has joined Hoover Candy Baumatic as regional sales manager – built-in electricals channel for the South.

Hoover has strengthened its freestanding division sales team with the appointment of James Dunn as account director.

@GC_Team

Giles Sutton, Managing Director of awardwinning integration firm James + Giles, has been appointed the new Chair of CEDIA EMEA’s volunteer Board of Directors.

Giles Sutton

James Dunn

Trade Electricals Direct has appointed Dean Porter to the new position of Trade Operations Manager.

The former Hughes branch manager returns to the group to take over the day-to-day running of TED’s branches in Basildon, Cambridge, Colchester, Ipswich, Norwich and Peterborough.

Dean Porter

10

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

THE LATEST ELECTRICAL GOODS INDUSTRY NEWS >> GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK

LG EC970V

WINNER TV OF THE YEAR

LG 55EG960V MAY 2015

INDUSTRY NEWS

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY

@GC_Team

SMEG OPENS NEW ABINGDON HEADQUARTERS

S

meg UK has announced the official opening of its new headquarters, located on the site of the original MG car works in the historic town of Abingdon in Oxfordshire.

BEKO HOSTS R&D NETWORKING EVENT

B

eko Plc introduced itself to the local Cambridge community at a VIP networking event in Pembroke College, hosted by the newly established Beko R&D Centre which is sited on the Cambridge Science Park.

It is Beko parent Arçelik’s second R&D centre abroad and will focus on technologies such as advanced sensors for smart appliances.

Investment is also being made in new materials that increase cost efficiencies and reduce energy consumption.

Beko is targeting talent from Cambridge University, start-ups, SMEs and other universities in the UK to work with it on R&D projects.

The event was also used to announce Beko’s official sponsorship of three Cambridge University Boat Clubs as part of its commitment to the local community.

(Pictured left to right): Bekir Ozyurt (Beko R&D), Cem Kural & Ragip Balcioglu (Arçelik A.S.), Teresa Arbuckle (MD Beko UK), Sir David Reddaway, Natasha Conway (Beko R&D)

12

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

The triple-storey Magna building – Magna: Latin for ‘great’ and the name of an award-winning MG car produced on the site in the 1930s – is set in four acres of landscaped grounds which have transformed the former brown-field site.

The eco-friendly building follows Smeg’s principle of ‘technology with style’ with its sophisticated design, modern muted palette and greenery throughout. The airy open-plan environment aims to promote interaction and cross-department collaboration, and will also serve as a hub for local groups and growing already-close ties with charities, schools, businesses and enterprises.

Smeg UK managing director Mike Giddings said: “Akin to Abingdon, Smeg has a wealth of history and heritage, and as a local employer and familyrun business we’re keen to continue to develop links with the Abingdon community.

“The new purposely developed building is in an inspirational setting, a space epitomising the company’s values – at the forefront of technology, style and design."

The 43,000 sq. ft. building houses iPad controlled meeting rooms, a showroom, cookery school and theatre facility, and is designed to support the ongoing growth of Smeg’s UK operations.

EXCLUSIVELY SHOWS COLLABORATE WITH HTA

T

he Exclusively Electrical and Exclusively Housewares shows are working with the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) to encourage more of its members to attend this year’s events.

The move could open up a new market for some exhibitors. Carol Paris, HTA chief executive, said many HTA Members have seen excellent growth in housewares and cookshop departments. “The Exclusively shows give them the opportunity to focus on this key area and see the latest products and trends in the marketplace,” she added.

“As two specialist shows, we offer a depth and breadth of brands, products and suppliers that is very attractive to a great mix of retailers for whom SDA products and housewares range from the purely functional right through to ideal gifts,” said Simon Boyd, Exclusively show director.

“We are sure HTA members will benefit from this quick, concentrated look at this product area.”

Both shows will run on Tuesday 14th June and Wednesday 15th June 2016 at the Business Design Centre, London.

‘MR NEFF’ TAKES EARLY RETIREMENT BSH

Independent Kitchen Sales Director Mike Jarrett has taken early retirement after 33 years with the company.

Jarrett started with NEFF as an Area Manager for Surrey & Sussex in June 1983 and worked his way up to Sales Director for the brand in 1999, overseeing the transformation of its strategy, which subsequently more than doubled the brand’s turnover in a seven-year period.

Throughout those years he became known to many in the industry as ‘Mr NEFF’.

More recently he has held the position of Independent Kitchen Sales Director for the Bosch, NEFF and Siemens brands,

and has grown the business substantially in just over two years.

Andreas Meier, CEO BSH Home Appliances Ltd, said Jarrett has been an incredible ambassador to BSH and is one of the most well known and respected characters within the UK kitchen industry.

“Throughout my time as CEO I have appreciated Mike because of his determination, honesty and loyalty. He has been living the Neff brand like not many others. I thank him sincerely for all he has done for BSH in a tremendous career.”

Simon Jones, Director BSH Kitchen Division, said Jarrett has left an indelible mark on the

kitchen industry, referring to him as “a true gentleman” and one of life’s “nice guys.”

Jarrett acknowledged and thanked his friends and customers throughout the industry for making his career rewarding and enjoyable.

GEORGE COLE

GEORGE COLE GEORGE COLE PINPOINTS HOTSPOTS IN THE WORLD OF CONSUMER ELECTRONICS

SELLING A UHD TV HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER – OR HARDER T

his should be a good year to sell Ultra HD (aka 4K) televisions; after all, there are many more products available, the technology is becoming more affordable, and more UHD content – in the form of UHD Blu-ray discs – is arriving this year. Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon are also planning to increase their UHD output. There’s even a logo – Ultra HD Premium – to help consumers choose the right product. So what could possibly go wrong? Well, the answer is the C-word – confusion, which can lead to the P-word – procrastination.

There are three basic elements to a UHD set’s improved performance over a 1080p HDTV television – higher resolution, higher frame rates, and improved colour and contrast in the form of Higher Dynamic Range (HDR). I’ve talked about HDR before, but basically it means greatly improved contrast and colour. With HDR, TV pictures look much better, so much so, that some argue that HDR, rather than higher resolution, is the best reason for investing in a UHD TV. All UHD Premium and all UHD Blu-ray players and discs conform to an HDR standard known as HDR10. In order to watch HDR content, three things are required – a TV set whose peak brightness

and black level specifications can support HDR; an HDMI 2.0a connection, and content that has been mastered for HDR. The mastering process includes generating metadata, which tells an HDR-compatible TV how to display the image.

Setting the HDR standard has not been simple, not least because LCD and OLED TVs have different display characteristics (put simply, LCD sets offer higher peak brightness levels, and OLEDs a higher black level), but this issue was resolved by setting two different standards for the two display technologies. This means that anyone buying an LCD or OLED UHD TV shouldn’t have to worry about HDR; but sadly, things are not so straightforward.

Dolby is offering Dolby Vision, which could be described as “HDR+” or “Super HDR”. Like HDR10, Dolby Vision is designed to enhance both contrast and colour, but there are some differences. HDR10 mastering supports 10-bit colour, but Dolby Vision supports 12-bit. And whereas HDR10 uses a static metadata system, which provides brightness and colour information for segments of content, Dolby Vision uses a dynamic system, which adjusts the metadata on a sceneby-scene basis, which should mean even better image quality.

Dolby Vision is compatible with HDR, so any TV set with Dolby Vision can also display HDR10 content, but the reverse is not true: HDR-only sets are not compatible with Dolby Vision, because a dedicated chipset is required – you can’t

convert an HDR10 set to Dolby Vision with a firmware upgrade. So far, the only UK TV manufacturer to support Dolby Vision is LG, with its latest range of OLED UHD TVs. Dolby has the support of several major Hollywood studios, including Sony Pictures, so it’s a fair bet that Sony will at some point launch Dolby Vision-compatible sets, although a Sony spokesperson told me: “Our TVs are compatible with HDR10, because a wide availability of content is expected.”

Netflix backs both horses – HDR10 and Dolby Vision. UHD Blu-ray can also support Dolby Vision, although this is an optional feature, so we are likely to see a mix of UHD Blu-ray titles, some of which are Dolby Vision-compatible and others that only support HDR10. The same goes for UHD Blu-ray players. As you can see, things could get a bit confusing both for consumers and retailers when it comes to buying and selling UHD equipment.

DAB+ COMES TO SMARTPHONES The news that LG’s new Stylus 2 smartphone will support DAB+ will be welcomed by many digital radio supporters. Sales of portable and in-car DAB radios matter, but many young people now use smartphones and tablets for watching and listening to entertainment, so having access to DAB on a handset should give digital radio lots more exposure. However, I don’t expect to see many other smartphone manufacturers rushing to follow LG – the iPhone has had FM functionality built in for years, but Apple has been reluctant to activate it, despite pleas from US broadcasters.

MAY 2016 GET CONNECTED

13

AUDIO PRODUCTS AND DIGITAL STREAMING

CONNECTIVITY RULES GEORGE COLE TAKES A LOOK AT THE CONSTANTLY EVOLVING WORLD OF AUDIO

T

he move from analogue to digital and a huge reduction in the cost of storage space have made a tremendous difference in the audio world. And as Jonathan Danbury, marketing director consumer division at Panasonic UK, points out, the two combined have meant consumers have grown accustomed to having access to huge amounts of music at their fingertips which they can play almost anywhere.

“With access to multiple apps and services, such as internet radio, streaming opens consumers up to different and new genres of music to listen to. But gone are the days of crowding around one device to hear your favourite tunes,” Danbury comments.

“Customers can now enjoy every piece of music they desire; anytime, anywhere,” adds Steve Reichert of Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics. “They can carry their entire music collections in their pockets, and what they don’t possess can be wirelessly streamed to them.”

Andy Graham, sales director for Pure, sees the biggest changes being in consumers’ mobile listening habits and the saturation of smartphone ownership. “This is significantly fuelling the consumption of music streaming services and in turn is driving the wireless speaker market and smarter audio products.”

“It’s all about connectivity,” comments Roberts CEO Owen Watters. “The two biggest changes in audio are the ability

14

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

to stream music around the home and the advent of smart radio, offering a wide and varied choice of entertainment.”

Matt Coupe, head of sound at Sony UK, highlights the introduction of highresolution to the audio world, which is incorporated in many of Sony’s products, from Soundbars to Walkman. Coupe says this is providing music lovers with another way of listening to their favourite music.

VINYL REVIVAL

The “vinyl revival” has also made a lot of noise, according to Andy Bott, high performance AV category manager at Invision UK. “It has got people talking about music at home being a ‘real event’ again. That influence extends beyond vinyl itself and we are seeing a renewed interest in audio across our product portfolio, from loudspeakers to hi-res music servers.” Sony has also seen the popularity of turntables increase and has introduced the PS-HX500 turntable with software for converting records into high-resolution digital files.

“I love the vinyl revival,” says Daniel Fletcher, managing director at Orbitsound. “It’s a reminder that there is an experience to music that is not necessarily delivered by perfection and convenience.” However, Q Acoustics/ Armour Home Electronics’ Reichert, believes vinyl is never going be anything

“With the increasing popularity of audio streaming services, people want their music delivered to them on the go”

more than a very niche market.

“Having said that,” he adds, “it doesn’t mean you can’t make a very good living catering to that market, if you do it well.”

Panasonic’s Danbury notes that the vinyl revival is not just about sound quality; it is about the whole experience of listening to music. “It is making listening special,” he comments. “We recently re-introduced a Technics turntable that has been developed for audiophiles looking to rediscover the uniquely warm soundquality of analogue vinyl discs.”

Danbury believes there is still a lot of love for physical media. “Our All Connected range of wireless speakers not only re-streams music, but can playback CDs, USBs or radio, which demonstrates that people are still using these types of media.” This summer Panasonic will launch its first portable and waterproof speaker.

CONVENIENCE

Orbitsound’s Fletcher says the reason so many consumers are embracing streaming is “convenience, convenience, convenience!” Invision’s Bott agrees:

“Consumers have embraced music streaming because it has delivered choice and convenience”

Orbitsound is recognised for its ‘spatial’ stereo technology

“Consumers have embraced music streaming because it has delivered choice and convenience.”

Roberts’ Watters maintains that while consumers are moving to streaming, multiroom is still very much in its infancy and so this presents a great opportunity for the independent retailer: “It is key to encourage customers to trade up to a more premium audio product that offers this benefit which can only enhance their enjoyment.”

Roberts’ streaming products include R-Line multi-room speakers with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and Smart Radios like the Stream 104 and iStream2.

Watters adds that there are still many consumers who are unsure of how streaming and smart radio works, and he maintains that in-store education is crucial to spell out the benefits of products.

“Demonstration is key to encouraging consumers to trade up and invest in a premium product.”

ON THE GO

“With the increasing popularity of audio streaming services, people want their music delivered to them on the go,” comments Pure’s Graham. “Our portable Bluetooth speaker Voca delivers the convenience of portable wireless streaming with superior sound and great design. Many of our digital

AUDIO PRODUCTS AND DIGITAL STREAMING

radios, including our Evoke C range, are also available with Bluetooth and Spotify Connect for added convenience.

“Customers want products which can seamlessly integrate into their own listening experience and are looking for those that work straight out of the box to offer a seamless user-experience, which is why point-to-point Bluetooth speakers are experiencing growth.”

There are many streaming products available, from Onkyo’s H500BT and E700BT headphones that include Bluetooth aptx technology, to Goodman’s Module, a £50 audio adapter that enables a standard hi-fi or music system to stream music around the home using a Wi-Fi network.

Goodman’s Heritage II Connect portable DAB+ radio includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity and Spotify Connect.

WHERE’S THE MONEY?

Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics’ Reichert says streaming is wonderful, but asks how electrical retailers can monetise the proposition: “You are unlikely to have sold them the phone/portable device, and are not earning a commission from Spotify, so where’s your sales opportunity?

There’s only one answer: you have to offer consumers ways of increasing their enjoyment of all this accessible music. That means making it sound better and/or even more convenient to listen to.” This strategy, he says, includes selling better headphones and streaming products like the Media 7000 system from Q Acoustics, a stereo 2.1 system that users can stream music to via Bluetooth.

Sony’s Coupe points out that many of his brand’s products – from speakers to our Bravia Android TVs – are compatible

with Google Cast. “Customer preference for entertainment devices varies, and the Sony range includes speakers, home cinema AV receivers, hi-fi systems, Soundbar and Soundbase units, so consumers can create a personalised home entertainment hub.”

SO, WHERE IS THE AUDIO WORLD HEADING?

Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics’ Reichert says styling will continue to improve, convenience will improve, things are getting smaller and wireless will become the norm. For Panasonic’s Danbury, multi-room seems to be the direction the industry is moving in as it gives consumers the easiest way to access their music around, or away, from the home. “But there’s also the high-resolution audio movement, where consumers are interested in quality over quantity,” he adds.

Sony’s Coupe observes the market for sports wearables growing significantly and an increasing trend towards smarter devices, such Sony’s Smart B-Trainer. “This all-in-one device offers the combination of a music player and sport device which measures and records training statistics,” he explains.

“Streaming is absolutely the future for audio,” asserts Roberts’ Watters. “Multifunctional systems offering solutions to all your listening needs are where the audio market is heading. Systems that offer DAB radio, Bluetooth, internet radio, streaming of your own music collection, the ability to operate via smartphone and tablet, and the best sound-enhancing technologies are in demand. Today’s audio consumers expect their music to sound great and to be at their fingertips.”

Panasonic’s SC-All 7CD

MAY 2016 GET CONNECTED

15

FROM THE BENCH

BROADBAND SPEEDS FOR TV sites give more specific real-world data rates per location. Data speed can be reduced at peak times, i.e.

6-11pm, and by malware and viruses – the use of anti-virus software (not necessarily charged for) is recommended, while old routers and hubs can slow things down.

Another trap for the unwary can be data capping, in which a monthly limit is imposed and excesses charged handsomely: with some of these even two or three movies per month can incur a hefty charge, so it’s vital to keep broadband packages updated to mitigate or avoid this.

BT and Sky do not restrict use, while some ISPs, for example Plusnet Extra, set limits high.

DELIVERY

TV STREAMING AND DOWNLOADING VIA IP, INTERNET PROTOCOL, IS GROWING RAPIDLY. ALAN BENNETT DISCUSSES THE NEED FOR SPEED

BY

the end of this year over half of TVs sold will be Smart types, and nearly all of them will be connected to the internet. Add this to PC and portable-device viewing and downloading to recorders and we have a huge on-line viewer base.

The most popular sites for IPTV are BBC iPlayer and its counterparts on ITV, Channel 4 and Five, and Netflix for movies. Other popular ones are Amazon, YouView and other on-demand platforms like Sky and Virgin. The off-line picture quality depends on two factors: available line speed/data rates and the subscription level chosen.

NEED FOR SPEED

All dealers are of course anxious to maximise their sales value, but it’s important to make customers aware of the significance of landline speed to avoid problems after the sale. The good news is that IPTV is possible with speeds below 1Mbps (Megabits per second) but the pictures will not be good, especially with large screens. Statistics show that the national average ‘headline’ speed is over 23Mbps, with one-third getting up to (an emotive phrase!) 30Mbps.

Many, however, get less than 10 from ordinary copper lines.

16

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

For standard-definition pictures, about 1Mbps is required – the BBC quotes 0.5 to 1.5 and Netflix 3Mbps – with a better quality image. For HDTV the recommendations are 2.75 and 5Mbps respectively, while UHD calls for 15-25. BT requires a bit-rate of 44Mbps for its UHD service: interestingly, this platform supplies both programmes and internet services! This ample figure does support simultaneous use of other devices within the same household or premises however.

HDR, High Dynamic Range pictures, i.e. from Amazon, adds about 20% to these figures. Many platforms, e.g. BBC iPlayer, assess the line’s speed capability and adjust the data rate accordingly, with lower quality at lower bandwidths. It’s called adaptive bitrate stream.

The quotes above are for streaming, i.e. watching TV as it comes over the line in real time.

For downloading (onto an inbuilt hard disk for later viewing) a much lower transmission rate can be tolerated, but the capture time is extended at very low speeds. High data rates reduce download times: a one-hour TV show in SD takes about 11 minutes at 5Mbps and a typical movie about 25 minutes. At 8Mbps

about 7 minutes and 16 minutes are required respectively; at 16Mbps 3½ and 8 minutes; at 30Mbps 1½ and 3½ minutes; and at 76Mbps about 45 seconds and 1¾ minutes. Some sites require downloading to be complete before viewing can begin; others, like iTunes and Vudu, permit viewing after a while as recording progresses.

When selling Smart TVs, home hubs and other internet products it’s wise to ascertain the customer’s current and prospective line speeds, the latter by banging the postcode into one of the many testing sites on the internet. Large ‘multi-active’ families with many connected devices really need a superfast link affording 40-50Mbps or more. It’s a little-known fact, perhaps, that there is no requirement for a receiving licence if programmes are never watched or recorded while they are being broadcast and reception confined to catch-up services, ondemand movies and suchlike.

CAVEATS

Remember that the quoted figures are ‘up-to’ ones which may only be achieved by 10% of users, and in fact speeds are usually much lower. Some independent internet

Broadband speeds depend on the path length from the exchange to the home. The bog-standard is ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), where speed largely depends on this distance – up to 20Mbps is possible here. Superfast broadband involves a glass-fibre link to the street cabinet with copper wire onwards, or fibre direct to the home, affording up to 200Mbps – at a price.

Ofcom offers an interactive map of coverage and speeds at: www.maps.ofcom.org/checkcoverage, also useful for those concerned with mobile phones. Line speed varies tremendously between districts and locations: it’s generally slowest in rural areas.

CHARGES

Intense competition between internet service providers and cable companies like Virgin Media has driven down charges. Currently, the cheapest deals are around £5 per month for the first six months, £7£10 per month thereafter, but with (e.g.) a 25GB monthly cap. Uncapped tariffs may cost twice as much. These prices are very volatile, with special offers rapidly coming and going, and may be out of date by the time you read this. Advise prospective customers to check comparison sites, e.g. uSwitch, at the time of purchase.

There are over 24m UK broadband subscriptions, covering about 80% of adults, and divided thus: 32% BT, 22% Sky, 20% Virgin, 14% TalkTalk and 12% others. 42% of users subscribe to

MAY 2016

cooking gcmagazine.co.uk

A G E T CONNEC T ED IN T EG R AL S UPPLEMEN T

INSIDE A Montpellier cooker is a perfect addition to any kitchen. We have a wide range of options, so you can find the right cooker to match your space and requirements.

FOOD PREPARATION

We offer a huge variety of hobs, including solid plate, gas, ceramic and induction models. You can even choose the number of cooking zones to suit your requirements and your style of cooking.

Healthy outlook for premium-end sales

For further details please have a look at the website www.montpellier-appliances.com

BUILT-IN APPLIANCES: Capturing the market

FREESTANDING APPLIANCES: A sector not to be ignored

THE UK’s FASTEST GROWING WHITE GOODS BRAND

LAUNDRY - DISHWASHING - COOKING - COOLING

COFFEE MACHINES:

Consumer spend continues to grow

PLUS...

YEAR

GUARANTEE PARTS & LABOUR

THE GOURMET QUARTER: Manufacturers promote a selection of their latest products

FOOD PREPARATION

The great British shape-up The UK food prep market is maintaining a healthy outlook as lifestyle trends push product developments The food preparation market is one of constant innovation, taking its inspiration from consumer lifestyles and new cooking trends witnessed in leading restaurants, which inevitably filter down into the kitchens of households nationwide, particularly those with keen cooks or bakers.

The category continues to be one of the best performing in the Small Domestic Appliance sector, and in the year to January 2016 it was valued at £274 million, up 27.6%, on volume growth of 14.8%, which suggests that consumers are maintaining the trend towards the purchase of higher-end products.

LIQUID GOLD

Personal blenders have proved to be a sub-category which is contributing to this growth and, according to Morphy Richards, there are now more than double the number of brands on the market than just a year ago. Driven by consumers’ focus on wellbeing, and a convenient way in which to consume the recommended 5-a-day, the personal blender market reached a value of £99.4 million early in 2016, with value growth of 74.6% and volume up 107%.

Annaliese Curtis, Consumer Category Manager for Worktop Cooking at Morphy Richards, observes the continuing trend for healthy and nutritious living now being accompanied by growing consumer interest in the ingredients used and the sources of foodstuffs.

And with interest in cooking meals from scratch also growing, so too is households’ confidence in cooking: “Although the UK is still down in comparison to the rest of the world in terms of its attitude towards cooking, a substantial number of consumers are taking an interest in food. As a nation, 29% claim to have great knowledge about cooking and food; 32% are passionate about 18

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

cooking and food; and an average 6.4 hours per week are spent cooking.”

UPWARD SPIRAL

As one food prep product type reaches its zenith, a totally new category emerges, old categories regain favour or products are adapted to bring added convenience to particular preparation processes: enter the soup maker (liquidisers with a cooking function), a category that is starting to make its mark in SDA, valued at £9.5 million and continuing to witness good growth, up 18.3% with volume increasing by 25.5%.

According to Morphy Richards’ Curtis, soup Dominik Pytel, Marketing Director, makers were recently Groupe SEB UK Ltd identified by Which? as one of the key product trends for 2016.

Mark Januszewski, CEO of kitchen and homewares product specialist Designer Habitat, believes the reach their peak or simply fall from grace. GfK figures (MAT January 16) prominence of healthy-eating gurus such as Deliciously Ella and the show that the kitchen machine, a Hemsley sisters has brought about rising star for a number of years, a “more savvy” consumer when with a market value of £46.3 it comes to cooking techniques; million, appears to have found its hence, he says, “we’ve seen a stark tipping point. The sub-category rise in demand for products like witnessed a flattening in value spiralizers and food dehydrators.” and a volume decline of -4.7%, “Spiralizing is a key trend that following a strong performance allows health-conscious consumers in the prior year. A significantly to create lower calorie and lower greater and faster decline has been carb vegetable alternatives,” recorded for juicers; the moving adds Morphy’s Curtis. “It’s also annual total of 110% growth in considered a great product to use 2014 fell in April this year to -35%. with children, as it encourages Whether the advent of the slow them to eat their 5-a-day.” Morphy juicer will revive this category Richards is responding to this latest remains to be seen. trend with the launch of an electric spiralizer in July this year.

FORWARD AND ONWARD As the SDA market continues HITTING THE WALL to evolve, Designer Habitat’s As new products enter this lucrative Januszewski is expecting to see sector of the SDA market, others a greater selection of appliances

“Real product innovation in this sector is a key market driver...”

AEG’s Sport Mini Blender

that stand the test of time appearing in the sector over the next few years. “For example,” he says, “reliable equipment such as pressure cookers and food steamers are likely to re-emerge with upgraded technology for added convenience, alleviating the stress and time for cash rich, time-poor consumers.”

“When looking further ahead in the future, the role of the smart and connected home will become increasingly important,” says Morphy’s Curtis. “Consumer wearables and home heating and lighting are currently leading the way in this area, but SDA brands need to equally understand the opportunities that connected devices can bring to the kitchen environment.

“We are already supporting our key products with our Cook & Create app, which features step-by-step recipes that have been developed specifically for our products. We’re currently exploring how we can develop this initiative further to interact with our key products.”

ONLY 2.8% FAT**

DLG_8323 Multifry Weight Watchers ad Art.indd 1

FRIES IN

15

††

MINUTES

1-8

28/01/2015 12:35

BUILT-IN COOKING

In 2012, the built-in cooking market was coasting on a horizontal trajectory as the housing market and new-build sector languished in the depths of depression. Fast forward to 2015/16 and the picture could not be more different

“Figures suggest that built-in sales in the MDA market are the highest on record, accounting for £820million and an overall rise of 9.2% (GfK Jan-Nov 2015)”

Baumatic BOPT609X 60cm Vantage Multifunction Pyrolytic Oven

Salah Sun, Built-in Cooking Product Manager at Beko plc

Performance built in W

hirlpool’s Charles Bernstein, Category Manager – Built-in, quotes statistics from the NHBC which show there were 75% more new homes registered in 2015 than in 2009, a dramatic increase which has undoubtedly had a positive effect on sales of built-in cooking appliances and the adoption of advanced cooking technologies.

“In the hob sector, induction has seen real growth in sales as consumers begin to appreciate the tremendous efficiency, speed, safety, controllability and economical cooking on offer,” says Bernstein.

“According to figures from GfK, the increase in popularity of induction technology, flexible cooking zones and smart technology with remote connectivity have all been busy transforming the hob from a companion purchase to a more considered one.”

Bernstein points out that the gas hob has remained the traditional consumer choice for many years;

20

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

however, as consumers become increasingly aware of induction as an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly alternative, gas is being “squeezed out” as induction becomes more competitive.

POSITIVE OUTLOOK

According to Owain Harrison, UK head of sales and marketing Built-in, Hoover Candy Baumatic, recent industry figures show that the total cooking market was up by 12.2% overall year on year, with volume sales of built-in ovens achieving 17.8% growth, while the hobs category increased by 12% and hoods by 13.6% (Source: AMDEA – Feb 2016).

“These positive figures present a very healthy picture of the built-in cooking sector and one that we believe is set to continue,” says Harrison.

According to GfK, in the April 2015 – March 2016 period, ovens enjoyed sustained growth with value sales rising 15% to £312 million, making it one of the top performing categories.

Single ovens accounted for more than 60% of the category and double ovens also captured share, with value sales rising 20%. GfK believes this follows the move towards larger capacity appliances.

Ovens hold a 43% share of the total cooking market, and one area that has contributed to this is pyrolytic cleaning. Pyrolytic ovens have experienced doubledigit growth every year since their introduction, despite an average price of £609, which is considered to be more than twice that of an oven without cleaning capabilities. Sales over the aforementioned twelvemonth period improved by 35% in value, and pyrolytic now accounts for 15% of the ovens market.

Sharp Home Appliances’ Rita Balestrazzi asserts that the built-in cooking sector is generating some “serious sales momentum” and is finally realising its full market potential, attaining unprecedented mainstream appeal, vastly

extending its reach and generating more volume as well as value-driven sales. “With less time for consumers to cook and obtain more culinary knowhow, there’s now a new and growing demand for technology that can offer built-in cooking shortcuts as well as mealtime rescues. The new generation of affordable 60cm ovens is designed to offer must-have gadgetry for everyone who cooks, not just cookaholics, and is bringing mealtime diversity to more homes.

“Multi-function ovens are now offering even greater assistance for cooks, coming with as many as 10 programmes including specialist pizza and baking functions as well as extra cleaning features, providing support from the start to the end of everyday mealtimes. Appliances are now equipped with catalytic liners and removable glass doors for ease of cleaning, and self-cleaning functionality is also trickling its way down into the mid mass market, with more affordable mid-range

FINE DINING, YOUR PACE OR MINE! Top chefs like Adam Gray appreciate V-ZUG’S simple and individual solutions. The new Combi-Steam MSLQ is the world’s first domestic appliance to combine three heating methods in one: multifunction, steam and microwave. Cooking fresh healthy food quickly has never been so much fun: www.vzug.com/queensteam Discover our cooking experience at Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings, 42 Northampton Road, London, EC1R 0HU. For more information email rhys.evans@vzug.com

Swiss perfection for your home

BUILT-IN COOKING

ovens now featuring pyrolytic programmes or, alternatively, VapClean functionality.

“Mid-range ovens are also offering some aspirational sales appeal for passionate cooks, coming with a selection of pro-style gadgetry, which includes turnspits for larger meat joints and digital meat probes that can offer greater cooking precision. And despite their increasing affordability, these appliances are becoming much more design led, with finishes in black and stainless steel and animated graphic LCD displays which are easy to read and use.”

CONFIDENCE

“Cooking walls are proving popular in the modern kitchen for consumers who are looking for a neat finish to complete their design”

“It’s a great time for built-in at the moment with strong year-on-year growth continuing across all the product areas, and this is reflected in the breadth of new products coming into the market,” says Alex Hinton, Head of Category for Built-In at Glen Dimplex Home Appliances.

“We are seeing strong performances both in the newbuild sector and, as people find themselves in a more financially stable position, also in the replacement market, with the areas

Danny Lay, managing director, Caple

delivering the greatest increases being induction hobs and multifunction cooking.”

Hinton notes that growth in the popularity of range cooking and the extra capacity it provides is leading to innovation and new product introductions in the built-in sector: a first for the market – traditionally, it is the freestanding sector that has benefitted from adopting many of the features seen in built-in appliances. GDHA expects to see interest this year in larger cavity ovens, typically 75 litres or above, combined with multi-function capabilities, quality accessories, and features such as wide-width oven trays, soft-closing doors and touch-control digital displays.

“These products will provide a great alternative to those looking for more capacity without going down

Whirlpool’s Fusion range comprises ovens, microwaves, warming drawers and a coffee machine

22

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

the freestanding or range cooker route,” says Hinton.

Electrolux’s Sophie Davidson, Head of Product UK and Ireland, says the company is experiencing a continuing increase in sales of steam cooking appliances.

“Steam oven appliances have seen excellent growth in the last three years, up 393%, especially in the past year. This breaks down to a +207.7% increase on last year, to 18.5K units.

“More and more consumers are becoming switched on to the health and flavour benefits provided by steam cooking. It is the easiest way to get great results. Once a niche product, steam is now a must-have ‘accessory’ for consumers, in order to cook delicious food that retains flavours brilliantly. Using steam is also a healthy way to cook, since fat doesn’t have to be added to keep food moist and because steam’s lower temperatures help to preserve nutrients.”

OPPORTUNITY

Chris Honer, MD of Britannia Builtin, believes consumers are looking for appliances that reduce cooking times in order to fit cooking into their busy lifestyles, as opposed to

adapting their lifestyle to fit in time to cook.

“Assisted cooking programmes and steam operated functions already appear on many builtin appliances, and this is set to increase,” he comments. “With builtin featuring more and more in newbuild properties, and growth in the replacement market, retailers are faced with a fantastic opportunity to sell consumers appliances which fit their existing space but offer them more for their money.”

The opportunity presented to retailers selling built-in appliances is well recognised by the industry and has resulted in the move towards shop-in-shops and dedicated display areas for products. Hoover Candy Ltd is one manufacturer which has capitalised on the shift: in 2015 it created a completely separate built-in sales and marketing department to represent its Hoover, Candy and Baumatic brands. “By centralising our sales teams, whilst focusing on the target audiences in terms of their separate marketing propositions, we have already witnessed a rise in the uptake of our different appliance ranges, specifically within the independent electrical sector,” says Owain Harrison.

Caple appliances combine intuitive technology, functional engineering and contemporary design, making them easy on the eye and easy to use.

Image: Single multifunction oven, C2236

design.living Tel: 0117 938 1900 www.caple.co.uk

BUILT-IN COOKING Sharp Home Appliances’ induction hob maintains the clean lines in this kitchen setting

“This timing also aligned with a major shift in the retail marketplace, where many key independents have made built-in cooking appliances a more important aspect of their offer, turning over prime retail space from lower margin, high-volume consumer electronics to actual kitchen displays featuring highermargin ovens, hobs and hoods within lifestyle settings – and it is working.”

CONNECTIVITY

Commenting on the future of the built-in cooking sector, Simon Freear, country manager for Amica UK and Ireland, says: “There is much spoken about connectivity for cooking appliances and I believe the potential of the connected kitchen/home is huge. The consumer is tantalisingly close to fully embracing the technologies and all the benefits it can offer.

What will slow the progress is the lack of availability of new-build homes fitted with the infrastructure, along with the willingness of consumers to adapt and invest in the connectivity setup in their homes to bring the potential about sooner rather than later.

“The interaction of ovens with web-based clubs might add a social element to a limitless database of recipes, menus and cooking tips; for example, with consumers using social media like Periscope to live stream their own cooking skills.”

24

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

“A consumer may be looking to purchase an oven, but with the right display setups and the retailer’s thorough knowledge of the products, they may leave with a hob too”

Amica already offers online capability on builtin ovens and Freear says this makes a great talking point in-store, “while at the same time providing an opportunity to show all the features and benefits available to consumers fascinated by the controls and easy-to-use smartphone-type intuitive scrolling for temperatures and programmes.”

The latest advances in Whirlpool’s appliances are those powered by 6th Sense Live® technology which enables each product to be connected using Wi-Fi and controlled remotely.

“Consumers are increasingly looking for products that they can operate and interact with as easy as possible, and with the Internet of Things growing all the time, connectivity in the kitchen is the latest big thing,” says Bernstein.

BRAIN POWER

“With consumers’ increasingly busy lifestyles, intelligent cooking appliances that make meals easier to prepare are increasingly appealing. As households demand and need better performance in less time, while expecting energy savings as a given, tasks are becoming frequently delegated to the appliance. It is therefore essential that the appliance also does the thinking: monitoring, adapting and controlling the

Stuart Benson, Sales Director Gorenje UK

processes to ensure excellent results when cooking.

“With the vast majority of consumers connected to the Internet, and with smartphones and tablets seen as necessities rather than luxuries, the consumer is ready and able to benefit from connectivity in the kitchen. Far from a gimmick, or an enterprise to simply increase brand positioning, connected appliances are the way forward, but people will be looking for their appliances to offer more in the future. Saving time and money is crucial, and the advantage of controlling appliances by smartphone or tablet, particularly when they are away from home, means the homeowner can benefit from the ultimate in ease of use and functionality.”

Thomas Johansson, Design Director at Electrolux, maintains the Internet of Things and the connected home are now becoming an important micro-trend and a “game changer” in the kitchen appliance

business. “We foresee a future in which appliances and new innovative solutions are connected, intelligent, and seamlessly integrated into the daily lives of users to make their lives easier: a future where the kitchen is the hub of the healthy home, promoting and inspiring a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.”

Over the next year AEG plans to launch an array of connected appliances in its core markets: the kitchen, the laundry room and the home comfort area. The Electrolux Group has already unveiled the “world’s first” steam oven with integrated camera – the AEG ProCombi Plus Smart oven – which is due for launch in October 2016.

The ‘My AEG’ app will be able to connect with this intelligent steam oven with integrated CookView® camera and Wi-Fi access, to obtain information on the cooking process, giving users updates and control of the process, wherever they are. The app also provides tips and support with recipes and oven settings.

Amica’s Freear concludes by offering a note of caution regarding new technologies and the importance of communicating their complexities to customers: “Cooking categories are full of technologies across all sectors of the market, but if the consumer does not understand them, how do they know they want them?”

FOR A

CRISPY, GOLDEN BAKE

USE AEG STEAMBAKE.

NO STEAM

STEAMBAKED

MULTIFUNCTION NOW WITH STEAMBAKE. The new range of AEG multifunction single ovens with SteamBake are the secret to a great bake. By pouring 100ml of water into the cavity bottom, and pressing the SteamBake button, Yorkshire Puddings will always be golden brown, muffins will be soft and moist and bread will rise higher and have a crispier crust.

Only the new range of AEG multifunction single ovens come with SteamBake as standard.

Speak to your account manager to find out more about SteamBake.

THE GOURMET QUARTER

The

Quarter Freestanding with style...

Amica’s range of double-oven freestanding cookers comprises 60cm or 50cm A/A energy class models with the choice of induction, ceramic, gas or electric hobs and great internal capacities.

Features include telescopic guides, a minute minder or programmer, flame failure safety valves (gas) and triple glazed cool-front oven doors. Available in matt black, stainless steel and white with 2-year warranty.

The 60cm double oven with induction hob (pictured) has 4 zones with touch-slider controls and a digital programmer.

Main oven: multifunction x 8 with fan; catalytic liners; light; 5 shelf positions; 2 wire shelves; 1 shallow Procook non-stick shelf. Static top oven: 2000W electric variable grill; catalytic liners; light; 3 shelf positions; 1 grill pan set; 1 wire shelf.

www.amica-international.co.uk | 01425 461600

De Dietrich DOP6567DG oven

Braun IdentityCollection Food Processor The powerful 1000W Braun IdentityCollection Food Processor (FP5160) is an ultra-compact model that comes with several accessories, including a centrifugal juicer, jug blender, whipping tool, citrus press, metal slicing and grating discs.

The extensive offering ensures that there is an accessory for every task.

With reliability guaranteed it’s simple and easy for consumers to use, with intelligent preset programmes, allowing them to simply select a programme (blending or kneading) and the machine will set the perfect speed and timing. The Braun IdentityCollection Food Processor also features a DualControl system which provides variable preset speeds to ensure fast and even results.

Braun Identity Food Processor (FP5160) (RRP £189.99)

www.braunhousehold.co.uk 0239 239 2392

26

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

New display solutions from Bosch At the recent Euronics Showcase 2016, Bosch launched eye-catching new display solutions including our tabletop stand.

The designs are based around Bosch’s range of garment care and breakfast and beverage products and offer a unique way to display them in store.

In addition, the information points mean these solutions will showcase the features and benefits for the products displayed. James Aldridge, SDA Buyer for Euronics, says: “The displays are a huge step forward in the way small domestic appliance (SDA) products are being displayed and I’m sure they will be a great success with our members.”

A stunning blend of form and function, the DOP6567DG built-in multi pyrolytic oven, part of De For further information: Dietrich’s new Dark Grey collection, Rebecca Ness, Trade Marketing boasts a 60-litre capacity, animated Manager - CP. Email: display and A-10% energy rating.

MKS-displaystands@bshg.com The high-tech appliance with 3-year warranty offers 14 automatic cooking programmes in ICS mode – ICS automatically determines the appropriate cooking function, temperature and time – a choice of 11 oven functions and a rotisserie with drip tray for healthy cooking.

Additional features include an intelligent filter that removes odours and smoke produced during the cooking process, Pyroclean function, a cool door with four glass panels, digital touch-controls and digital temperature control.

Dimensions built-in (mm): H585 x W560 x D550

AB Distributors: www.abdistributors.co.uk

THE GOURMET QUARTER

GDHA sets its sights on 50cm sector Leading UK cooking appliance manufacturer Glen Dimplex Home Appliances (GDHA) is targeting significant growth in the 50cm freestanding cooking sector after unveiling a suite of new products across its Belling (pictured), New World and Valor brands.

The brands already perform exceptionally well in this sector, achieving 25% market share last year, and the newly extended range of 15 gas and electric products offers competitive pricing and improved product quality.

The new collection covers all specifications, from an entry-level single cavity model up to generously sized ceramic double ovens with extra features across both gas and electric. All products feature easy to clean ceramic interiors.

www.gdha.com | 0844 2484149

Coffee the smart way...

Premium Swiss bean-to-cup coffee machine manufacturer JURA presents the ultimate coffee experience

At Exclusively Electrical 2016, JURA is launching its new E8 Chrome machine, featuring a Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.©) that optimises extraction time and a onetouch function that provides simple operation.

This machine also allows for the setting of individual coffee preferences. It is easy to care for, with its Intelligent Water System (I.W.S.®), and also features a Zero-Energy Switch which provides a saving of up to 40% in energy.

The JURA E8 is compatible with the JURA Smart Connect, which uses Bluetooth to wirelessly operate your coffee machine.

SEVERIN available from HomeSpares.co.uk

f

Made with German precision, the Severin fruit dryer has become one of the most popular products in our entire range.

The move towards “clean eating” has propelled the humble dehydrator to the top of foodie wish lists – from fitness fanatics who want to make their own healthy kale crisps to busy mums who want easy–to-make fruit snacks for their little ones.

This lightweight easy-to-store machine dries fruit, vegetables and herbs over five grates that can be stacked up or used separately. Just pop in your chosen food, switch on and leave overnight for delicious, healthy fat-free snacks!

www.HomeSparesTrade.co.uk

https://uk.jura.com

Vitamix® S30 – high-performance blending widens its reach Exclusively Electricals, 14th-15th June 2016, Business Design Centre, London, Stand EE08

Vitamix®’s S30 high-performance personal blender is now available in a reconfigured offering.

Featuring the versatility and durability synonymous with the Vitamix name, the S30 is perfect for blending smaller batches of smoothies, soups, sauces and spreads.

It is equipped with an individual container and a 1.2-litre jug, making it simple to quickly blend healthy on-the-go smoothies.

The appliance boasts a powerful 790W motor, Variable Speed Control and Pulse, a metal drive-system and signature laser-cut stainless steel blades.

The S30 is available in Black, White, Brushed Stainless, Red, Cream, Daybreak Blue and Sour Apple Green with a new SRP starting at £349 (includes blending cookbook and 7-year warranty).

www.vitamix.co.uk/S30

Kenwood kCook Multi The innovative new Kenwood kCook Multi, launching this September, is an intuitive one-pot meal preparation gadget, perfect for batch cooking, dinner parties and family meals.

This versatile appliance chops, stirs and cooks dishes in the same 2.6-litre bowl, with six functional preset programmes: One Pot, Frying, Sauce/Soup, Slow Cook, Steaming and Rinse. Cooking time ranges up to 8 hours.

It comes with a unique two-disc attachment and 360-degree rotating arm that chops and slices ingredients before cooking, or items can be sliced direct into the pot during the cooking process.

All parts are dishwasher safe and an app providing over 200 recipe ideas, all of which can be made using the kCook Multi, is available.

Kenwood kCook Multi (CCL400WH) CREATE MORE (RRP £549.99).

www.kenwoodworld.com/uk | 0239 239 2392

MAY 2016 GET CONNECTED

27

FREESTANDING COOKING

way they have is due to the generous internal capacity. Their sister product, a single cavity version, is the best selling in its category for similar capacity reasons.”

60cm electric cooker from Servis

RANGE COOKERS

Still standing Built-in appliances may be seen as the more stylish, aspirational and technologically advanced contenders in the cooking market, but freestanding cookers continue to feature in many manufacturers’ product portfolios as the sector has reinvented itself with updated, modern designs, multi-function capabilities and a greater choice of hob types

E

ven at the more entry-level of the market, freestanding cookers are performing well, according to Servis’s Rita Balestrazzi, who advises that the category achieved a year-onyear volume increase of 19.6% in volume sales to January 2016. “60cm twin-cavity gas cookers are quickly becoming recognised as the ultimate all-inone cooking commodity, offering a fast and responsive heating method that’s also extremely costeffective,” she comments.

Balestrazzi maintains that step-up models have driven 13% year-on-year value growth in the 60cm category. She points out that one of the attractions for consumers is that products can offer a fifth more cooking room than even the largest single ovens. Also, “they slot perfectly into the smaller kitchens of modern apartments and townhouses.”

Glen Dimplex Home Appliances has made a significant investment in the 50cm freestanding sector. It’s an area the company has always performed strongly in and believes there is scope for further growth.

28

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

“Induction adds real value to the freestanding market by encouraging consumers to trade up...”

“We are expecting significant demand for these products as they are well made and keenly priced, offering great revenue opportunities for retailers,” says Andrew Freeman, Head of Category for freestanding.

INDUCTION

Freeman maintains that induction continues to be a “huge story” and, apart from built-in and range cooking, it is the fastest growing cooking sector. “As the cost of the technology has reduced, induction has now become much more affordable on standard freestanding cookers, which has opened it up to whole new sectors and audiences.

“From a manufacturer and retailer perspective, induction adds real value to the freestanding market by encouraging consumers to trade up from ceramic, and there is now a strong offering of 60cm products available on shop floors and online across major retailers and independents.”

GDHA has a strong freestanding offering across its Stoves, Belling, New World and Valor brands, which Freeman says is frequently being strengthened. “Since launching new touch-control models across the brands we have seen a 25% increase in sales and are expecting a further 30% growth this year,” he adds.

For consumers coming to the market for a new freestanding cooker the overall considerations are fuel choice, cooking capacity, the look of the appliance and price, according to Simon Freear, country manager for Amica UK and Ireland.

“Cooking products are unique, in as much they are the fun element in the kitchen, the one place that consumers, if they like cooking, enjoy the interaction. One of the reasons our new freestanding double ovens have taken off the

Freestanding cooking is, of course, a market of two parts – the slot-in cooker, a solution for the standard 60cm gap between kitchen units, often bought as a replacement product, and the style-statement range cooker, an appliance that adds considerable value to the market, and which also now comes in a 60cm width.

Britannia Living expanded its portfolio earlier this year with the launch of its first mini range cookers – the Delphi Professional 60cm collection. The two new freestanding models, which feature a multifunction 55-litre net capacity oven, are available in dual fuel or, for those looking for a greener option, with an induction hotplate. The new products deliver the professional aesthetic of Britannia’s Delphi range cookers and are suitable for those who aspire to range-cooker ownership but lack the necessary kitchen space for a full-size model.

Caple managing director Danny Lay believes on-trend styles in range cookers nowadays tend to be modern.

“Stainless steel and black glass versions look particularly chic. It’s these sleek aesthetics which blend well with the traditional elements we all love about range cookers, such as double-cavity cooking space and plenty of hob space.

“The most popular range cookers tend to have high energy ratings and time-saving features which make life easier in the kitchen. Range cookers with multi-functional ovens are high on the agenda. These appliances are in demand where cooking is key to the end user’s lifestyle.”

ADDING VALUE

In terms of maximising sales opportunities and add-on revenues, Chris Honer, Managing Director of Britannia, says retailers should focus on the quality finish of products and the advanced extras that are available to make life easier for consumers.

Britannia has incorporated extras such as a programmable meat probe and rotisserie oven in its larger sized models, and also offers a Chef Top, which enables users to cook Teppan Yaki style. A cast iron wok support accessory and griddle are also available, providing consumers with more cooking options, while supporting retailers with added value.

ONE POT

SAUCE / SOUP

STEAM

Healthy, homemade meals, made much easier with Kenwood

It’s time to say goodbye to the ready meals, and hello to tastier and healthier meals with the kCook – a cooking food processor and steamer that chops, stirs and cooks your dinner for you.

The Kenwood kCook provides ‘one pot’ cooking, allowing flavoursome casseroles, fresh soups and various sauces to be prepared at the touch of a few buttons. It will even steam your vegetables and fish in the inclusive basket for an even healthier family meal.

With the choice of two bowl tools, ingredients can be chopped to the desired texture before switching to the stirring tool to ensure the dish is cooked evenly.

Contact your local Sales Manager for more information

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

CREATE

MORE

Hotpoint espresso machine – designed in partnership with illy

COFFEE MACHINES

The bean

always excites the consumer by providing genuine useful features and benefits which ensure that premium models continue to be a top-selling category for retailers,” says Group SEB’s Pytel.

Group SEB brand Krups intends to capitalise on this premium-end growth and has recently launched two new concept Nespresso machines – PRODIGIO and PRODIGIO & milk. These are the first connected Nespresso machines from Krups. Both incorporate Bluetooth technology to allow users to pour or schedule their coffee using their smartphone.

Pytel maintains that Nespresso machines offer the same results as toprange espresso models, with the perfect taste and aroma preserved under a layer of crèma, all provided by the convenience of a pod.

the pod

BEAN-TO-CUP

The coffee machines market just keeps on giving, delivering style and convenience and the barista-style experience coffee lovers demand

T

he arrival of coffee shop chains in Britain brought about a new era for a nation of tea drinkers, whose knowledge of the strong caffeine-rich beverage was largely rudimentary.

Nowadays, we’re a more sophisticated bunch, confidently choosing from a cocktail of drinks ranging from espresso and ristretto to lattes, cappuccino, macchiato, frappuccino…. or those laced with caramel, vanilla or booze.

According to Mintel, consumer spend on coffee machines doubled in the five years to 2015 to reach £148 million, and it’s not surprising that sales have continued to grow. Alex Pickering, UK and Ireland Marketing Director for the De’Longhi Group, says research shows that we are becoming increasingly more discerning coffee drinkers. “And not only are we looking for the very best coffee, but also the right coffee-making experience.”

POD MACHINES

Research also shows that people aren’t willing to compromise on the quality of their coffee, but they do want it served as fast as possible. Hence, the demand for pod machines in the UK has continued to grow. At the premium end of the market, 30

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

pod machines have shown significant growth, last year accounting for 69% of the value of the total Hot Beverage market, according to Dominik Pytel, Marketing Director at Groupe SEB UK. Euromonitor International reports the growth of fresh ground coffee pods during 2015 to have been a “success story”. While consumers in the UK traditionally favoured instant coffee over fresh coffee, this is in the process of being reversed. The research company says the continued growth in pods was led by high demand for baristastyle coffee coupled with the convenience of preparing a quality drink at home. A wider assortment of flavours with premium varieties such as cappuccino, latte and macchiato, which were particularly successful among consumers under 28 years old, drove sales throughout the year.

“Real product innovation in the coffee machines sector is a key market driver and

De’Longhi’s Pickering notes that while coffee makers continue to see doubledigit growth, bean-to-cup delivered the most rapid growth in both volume and value sales in 2015 within the category, compared to other espresso and filter markets, with a 24.8% increase in overall sales value. “This,” he says, “highlights the increasing consumer demand for barista-quality personalisation at home.”

Pickering also believes that many consumers are now seeking quality, reliable products and brands because they want to invest in appliances that will last longer and look good, offering long-term value for money. He quotes figures showing that 52% of people consider the quality of the coffee machine in relation to the price when making their purchase decision, while the second most important factor is the ease of use (48%) followed by the flavour of the coffee the machine produces (43%).

“These are all key points to consider when displaying coffee machines in store,” he advises.

“Other considered factors for consumers are countertop space, versatility and appearance.

De’Longhi understands that consumers often have limited kitchen worktop space and has continued to push innovative designs with smaller footprints as well as technological advancements.

“Consumers are increasingly looking for products with great quality and value that can

“Real product innovation in the coffee machines sector is a key market driver”

Krups’ PRODIGIO & milk incorporates Bluetooth technology

The connected machine

Taking coffee experiences to a whole new level.

The new Nespresso machine communicates directly with smartphones or tablets – the ultimate in coffee machine connectivity.

For further details, please contact Nespresso on 0800 442 442

COFFEE MACHINES

revolutionise their kitchen. Year on year we have seen consumers becoming more audacious, investing more in the quality and functionality in their choice of small appliances whilst also choosing imaginative styles and colour variants.”

Pickering believes there is a real opportunity for retailers to enjoy the growth in the coffee machine market by managing product ranges in-store so they offer desirable and innovative brands and product categories that complement each other, such as De’Longhi’s Scultura and Distinta breakfast collections.

BUILT-IN

Whirlpool’s Charles Bernstein, Category Manager – Built-in, notes a significant trend towards built-in coffee appliances, particularly for consumers who enjoy entertaining. “Discerning consumers want to enjoy a lifestyle that promotes luxury and convenience and boasts status. Many are choosing to upgrade their existing homes instead of moving house, and with entertaining at home as popular as ever, the kitchen and its appliances have become a big priority. Some are also looking for appliances that are a bit out of the ordinary and offer something not typically seen in a standard kitchen.

“A built-in coffee machine adds value to the home, allows for individuality and bespoke design and, at the same time, offers entertainment value and the luxury of a proper cup of coffee.

“A built-in coffee machine adds value to the home”

“The encouraging news for the coffee machine sector is that products like these are very important in the modern kitchen, as lifestyles change and the layout of the home evolves to offer fewer confined, specified areas.”

Bernstein believes the success of the built-in coffee machine sector can be measured by the number of popular brands in the marketplace.

Commenting on the design of built-in coffee machines, Caple managing director Danny Lay says this is moving in line with all other major appliance trends. “Therefore, sleek, sophisticated styles with an industrial edge to give the appliance a more professional feel are proving popular.

“Functions have become simple and easier to navigate, and the most popular coffee machines are those which you

Caple's CM461 fully automatic built-in coffee machine has adjustable settings for making a variety of coffee drinks

32

can adapt to make different types of perfect coffee with a range of easy-to-use settings such as grind time, coffee and steam temperature and water volume.”

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE TASTE

Roger Heap, Managing Director for JURA UK, believes that possessing a coffee machine is “a growing household must” as the drink continues to grow in popularity.

“Consumers are coffee connoisseurs,” he comments. “They truly understand the complexities of this en-vogue drink, so it’s important for retailers to ensure that they offer the very best quality coffee machines and communicate their origin, as well as product knowledge.

“Bean-to-cup coffee machines are responsible for the growth of good quality coffee in this vibrant industry. Great tasting coffee starts with premium beans, ensuring a barista-style experience every time.”

De’Longhi’s PrimaDonna Elite connected beanto-cup coffee machine

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

FROM THE BEAN TO THE CUP

M

elitta, founded by Melitta Bentz in 1908, was the inventor of the coffee filter paper and the first to market the electric coffee maker.

Today, the brand is a world leader in coffee enjoyment.

The UK coffee segment has exploded in recent years, with a huge drive into freshly prepared coffee. At Melitta, we have the passion and expertise throughout the entire process of bean to cup, giving authority to a world-recognised brand with true heritage and innovation.

Melitta UK has gone from strength to strength since it was established in 2014. UK Country & Sales Manager Stephen Barnett has been joined by David Price to continue what has been a wonderful journey in the marketplace. We continue to invest and drive the electrical coffee categories with innovation, quality, passion and value, with the objective of providing retailers and consumers with service support and rewards.

BEAN TO CUP Caffeo® Barista TS Melitta’s flagship fully-automatic coffee machine, the CAFFEO Barista TS®, developed with barista knowhow, provides a remarkable degree of diversity. It features four classic specialties – espresso, café crème, cappuccino and latte macchiato – and a further 14 exclusive varieties of coffee. Individual settings for coffee strength, brewing temperature and quantity can be stored for each drink and for up to four persons by way of the special My Coffee Memory function. Thanks to the Touch & Slide panel and the brilliant high-resolution TFT color display, this fully-automatic premium coffee maker can be used intuitively.

FILTER COFFEE MACHINES Aroma Elegance Deluxe Melitta has once again set the standards for the preparation of filter coffee. The Aroma Elegance Deluxe offers impressive innovation, a high level of ease of use and elegant design, giving pleasure to the most discerning coffee lover. It features the exclusive Aroma Control function, which allows users to get the fullest of flavour from even the smallest amount of coffee. The elegant modern appearance is most striking; as is the simplicity, ease of use and built-in 3 in 1 calc protection, which ensures a long product lifecycle. As the inventor of the coffee filter paper, Melitta combines in the Aroma Elegance its entire competence, experience and passion for coffee.

Look IV Timer Our award-winning Look IV range topper features a practical timer function, and the new 3 in 1 calc protection rounds off this model’s ease of use. It also incorporates Melitta’s unique Aroma Selector, enabling the user to set the coffee intensity to their preference to personalise the coffee experience.

Caffeo® Varianza CSP CAFFEO® Varianza® CSP with My Bean Select® is a perfect fully-automatic coffeemaker for discerning coffee lovers who appreciate both the aroma of selected freshly-ground coffee beans and flexible single-cup preparation.

The innovative My Bean Select® single-cup system enables the user to choose cup by cup at any time from the entire range of coffee beans, and thereby provides a limitless range of tastes and flavours.

Caffeo® Passione OT CAFFEO® Passione® One Touch (OT) offers a wide range of palate pleasures in no time at all: ten recipes for popular coffee specialities delivered swiftly and effortlessly at the touch of a button – Café crème via espresso to cappuccino. One touch is all that is needed for perfect foamed milk and hot water too. In addition, the Melitta® Best Aroma System gets the best out of every bean, thereby guaranteeing a perfect taste experience cup by cup.

The elegant One Touch fullyautomatic coffeemaker is a real eye-catcher with a cubic design, so it is even suitable for small kitchens. The new CAFFEO® Passione® One Touch (OT) is an excellent choice for all who appreciate a true variety of pleasure along with maximum comfort and ease of use.

01733 260905 www.melitta.co.uk MAY 2016 GET CONNECTED

33

BACKCHAT

2-MINUTE INTERVIEW

VISITOR

HE’S A WANNABE ROCKER WITH A FEAR OF MOTHS AND AN AVERSION TO AUDI DRIVERS, BUT HE CAN TAKE THE HEAT WHEN IT COMES TO CUISINE. MEET STEVE CORBETT, MARKETING MANAGER FOR NOTTINGHAMSHIRE-BASED APPLIANCE FIRM CDA.

Why did you choose to work in the electrical industry?

COMPANY: CDA

You don’t choose the industry; the industry chooses you.

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

I’d happily roadie or sound/guitar tech for any of the big metal bands.

Who in the industry would you like to spend time with?

Favourite TV programme?

Match of the day.

Who has been the greatest influence in your life? A gentleman called Stuart Laverick, who instilled the marketing bug firmly into me at University.

What surprises you?

The lack of indicator use by Audi drivers.

Name your poison? White beer.

From having a previous electrical retail background, I’d love to spend time in the nationals’ marketing departments, like a fly on the wall.

What makes you laugh?

My humour is somewhat juvenile and I laugh when I shouldn’t.

What was the greatest turning point in your life? Having kids.

What hobbies do you have?

It’s all about guitars and cycling.

Greatest regret?

I made a bad career move around 5 years ago but I’m back on track now.

What sort of music do you like?

Metal, Rock and Blues mainly.

What historic figure do you identify with most?

Mr Hendrix. Do I really need to answer why? Just put “Are you experienced” on – Jimi understands.

How would you describe yourself?

Easy going.

How do you think others see you?

A very tired father of four.

Pet hate?

Keyboard warriors.

Do you have any bad habits?

Don’t get in a car with me.

34

NAME: STEVE CORBETT

GET CONNECTED MAY 2016

What’s your favourite cuisine? Chilli.

You have been offered a leading role in a film of your choice, what character would you like to play?

Any role Quentin Tarantino would give me.

The cooler the better, obviously.

You have been offered the opportunity to rule the world for a day, what would be the first change you would make?

Channel our energies into resourcing more food and safe shelter across the globe, whatever it takes.

Is there anything about yourself that you would like to change?

My lack of x-ray vision is annoying.

Favourite quote? There’s no “I” in team, but if you look very closely then you don’t have enough work to do.

What do you daydream about?

In the very brief moments I have to daydream, it’s usually headlining the Download Festival.

Favourite holiday destination?

Woolacombe beach with my girls: not exotic but so rewarding.

What’s the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? This questionnaire.

What’s the worst lie you’ve ever told?

The answer to each of these questions.

What’s the best kind of punishment? Guilt. …and who deserves it?

If you felt guilty, you needed punishing.

Do you have any hidden talents?

Green fingers, I have an allotment and am attempting to cross breed new chilli varieties.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time? As a taxi service to my four kids.

Do you have any particular fetishes?

I’m not sure answering this correctly would make it into the magazine

Who do you most admire? My good lady.

I mean, four kids, that’s a feat and a half.

What (or who) would you put into Room 101? Audi drivers.

What’s your greatest achievement?

Playing in a band in front of 2,000 people.

Work related – it’s making the great strides we are doing in CDA.

What’s your greatest fear? Moths.

What’s your favourite piece of kit?

My Ibanez Roadstar from 1984.

What motto do you live by?

“Never live life by a motto.”

Life is… …complex – try listening to school kids.

Established in 1991, CDA are a UK company offering high quality kitchen appliances that are built with your customers’ lifestyle in mind.

For 25 years CDA have supported high street retailers with our mission to ‘be the best’. We promise to offer the best products at the best price possible, delivering nationwide and providing peace of mind with our 5 year parts, 2 year labour guarantee on all CDA appliances.

Sell SONOS Smarter The Flexson Cantilever TV Mount For the SONOS PLAYBAR is just one of the 75+ smart accessories designed in the UK for every SONOS product.

It’s the ultimate way to wall mount a TV and a SONOS PLAYBAR. •

Vertical and horizontal adjustment to align screen and SONOS PLAYBAR

•

SONOS PLAYBAR appears as part of the TV and rotates in line with it

•

Rotates up to 180° with 40” screen

•

Fits screens 37”- 55” (all VESA mounts to 600 x 400mm)

•

Maximum TV 40kgs

•

Designed and manufactured in the UK

Flexson Cantilever TV Mount For the SONOS PLAYBAR

Once demonstrated, the benefits of the Flexson Cantilever TV Mount become clear – so we have a smart offer to support you:

GET A FREE FLEXSON CANTILEVER TV MOUNT FOR THE SONOS PLAYBAR FOR DEMONSTRATION* If you don’t have the wall space, we’re also offering the same opportunity for the Flexson TV Stand for the SONOS PLAYBAR For details, please contact us on 0208 358 5888. *T/Cs apply Flexson TV Stand For the SONOS PLAYBAR

Discover 75+ superb solutions, for every SONOS product at Flexson.com