JUNE 2014
gcmagazine.co.uk
T H E M AG A ZI N E O F T H E E L E C T R I C A L G O O D S I N D U S T RY
COOLING
A breath of fresh air Let SEBO take the hard work out of housework
GC looks at a market brimming with innovation, from technologies that have achieved remarkable strides in energy savings to those that have boosted food preservation
SEBO vacuum cleaners help make cleaning easy. Light to push, with comfortable handles and long cables, using them is a breeze. High technology filtration ensures that all the dust they capture is safely trapped inside, protecting against harmful allergens, as well as keeping the home clean. Some models even filter out odour, which is great if there are pets.
GROWTH FROM KNOWLEDGE GfK reports on trends in the cooling market
As the world leader in professional upright vacuum cleaners, SEBO knows how to make reliable, high performance machines. Made in Germany, they are built to last, so you can sell them with confidence, which makes a refreshing change these days.
GEORGE COLE The lowdown on where TV is headed
BACKCHAT A 2-minute interview with Groupe SEB’s Marc Hughan
THE BRITISH EMRAS 2014
THE WINNERS... Be Proud: an EMRA means not just “The best of British Electricals” but “The best of British Industry”
SEBO – the vacuum cleaner professionals For a chance to win a SEBO vacuum cleaner, enter our monthly draw at: www.sebo.co.uk
www.sebo.co.uk
01494 465533
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Contents
INTRODUCING THE FIRST HEAT PUMP WASHER DRYER FROM AEG The brand new AEG ÖKOKombi Plus puts an end to laundry limitations as customers can wash, dry and refresh their fabrics in one innovative appliance. The first of its kind, the ÖKOKombi Plus is the only washer dryer in the world to feature heat pump technology. Consumers can now dry their fabrics at much lower temperatures, saving money and ensuring fabrics are handled incredibly gently. The ÖKOKombi Plus is extremely efficient, using a staggering 40% less energy than standard A-rated washer dryers. Refresh silks, cashmere and dry clean-only garments with confidence using the steam refresh function, and with Woolmark Gold Accreditation, even hand wash-only garments can be washed and dried in safety. AEG Trade Sales Number:
08445 610 610 www.aeg.co.uk
Editor in Chief: Marlinda Conway Telephone: 01420 886 33 marlinda@gcmagazine.co.uk
Contents 04 06 11 12 14 19 20
Creative Director: Will Dobson will@gcmagazine.co.uk
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Editorial Comment The Word
In and around the industry
George Cole Gets Connected
What next for TV?
The Product Gallery Cooling Feature
Appliances that work for households’ individual lifestyles
Growth from Knowledge
GfK takes a look at trends in the cooling market
From the Bench
Alan Bennett looks at accessories that can bring TVs and other boxes into 2014
Backchat
A 2-minute interview with Marc Hughan, sales director of Groupe SEB UK
The British Electrical Manufacturing & Retailing Awards: The Winners...
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JUNE 2014 GET CONNECTED
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Editorial Comment
Comment In difficult times – and despite the brighter economic news about the UK’s “recovery”, these continue to be difficult times – there’s a natural tendency for us all to look at the competition and believe that anyone trying to make a living in this industry can only be doing it by taking somebody else’s. Maybe ours.
T
here’s always been competition, but with times being tight and profound changes taking place in what, how and why consumers choose to buy, it’s harder than ever, especially for those who have always been successful in a certain way, but now find the world changing around them.
“We’re always going to be competing with each other, but the bigger the cake we can get to compete for, the better chance we have to survive and prosper in the new world order.“
Competition is a spur for the adaptable and the inventive to open up to new ideas. That’s positive. But it can also have the negative effect of encouraging a “bunker mentality”, where the reaction is to decry anything new that usurps our established way of doing business, and to call “unfair” on any practice that looks like effective competition. This leads to just looking at what’s wrong, and complaining that it shouldn’t be allowed. From there it’s a short step to factional squabbling, fragmentation of the industry, the division into armed camps with their own special interests to defend, and lack of the cooperation and cohesion that would help the entire industry work together to build effectively on what’s right. 4
GET CONNECTED JUNE 2014
There are things wrong with our industry, and we’re not all going to heal our differences and become best mates overnight. But the electrical sector is fighting now not just for a share of its own established cake, but to defend the size of that cake against other industries, all competing for the disposable income choices consumers have to make. We’re up against new cars, holidays, the new wardrobe... and as the “feelgood factor” returns, consumers want to choose what makes them feel good. In these conditions, the new fridge/ freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, TV has to look like an attractive lifestyle-enhancer. Distress purchase will always be a factor, but it’s no longer the only one. The industry needs to present itself as sexy, attractive, cutting-edge, stylish, lifestyle-enhancing, exciting. A credible choice to make against all the other blandishments from other sectors. If we can get together to choose the common ground and unite to present electricals as up there with the other feelgood consumer choices, it benefits the entire industry. So it was encouraging at the British EMRAs Awards night last month (see pages 22-26 in this issue) to see that the spirit of co-operation and pride in our collective excellence is gaining ground as a uniting idea. Electricals ARE exciting, technologically advanced, stylish, lifeenhancing. We’re always going to be competing with each other, but the bigger the cake we can get to compete for, the better chance we have to survive and prosper in the new world order. This industry is world class. We are finding ways to unite to tell the world.
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Marlinda Conway Editor in Chief
Terry Heath Editorial & Publishing Director
Will Dobson Creative Director
James McIntosh Consumer Consultant
George Cole Consumer Electronics Consultant
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Industry News Shop prices fall for 13th consecutive month Shop prices recorded deflation for the thirteenth consecutive month in May, remaining unchanged at 1.4% from April. Non-food recorded deflation for
the fourteenth consecutive month, accelerating to 2.8% in May from 2.7% in April, while food prices remained unaltered at 0.7%, the lowest ever recorded.
John Lewis opens first airport store John Lewis has opened its first airport shop, at Heathrow’s Terminal 2. The 3,600 sq ft outlet is located on the top floor of the departure lounge and will stock the retailer’s home, fashion, gifting and seasonal ranges, showcasing own-brand products, designer collaborations and exclusives. It is the 42nd John Lewis store in the UK.
Consumer confidence at highest level since April 2005 UK consumer confidence rose to its highest level in more than nine years in May, according to the latest GfK Consumer Confidence Index. An increase of three points, to zero, marked the first lift out of negative territory since April 2005. All five measures used to calculate the Index score increased.
DE DIETRICH BRAND BENEFITS FROM €200 MILLION GLOBAL GROWTH PLAN
All change here... A lively month for Dixons as it entered into an agreement to sell its ElectroWorld operations in Central Europe to NAY a.s., a leading electrical specialist retailer in the region. Electroworld operates 26 specialist electrical retail stores in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. For the year to April 2014, the assets being disposed of generated losses before tax of £5.6 million on a turnover of £129 million from 26 outlets, including 2 franchise stores. The news followed the formal announcement of the £3.6 billion merger between
Dixons Retail and Carphone Warehouse. The merged entity, Dixons Carphone plc, is expected to achieve cost savings of at least £80 million on a recurring basis, which are expected to be delivered in full in the financial year 2017/18. News of the “merger of equals” was delivered as Dixons announced its trading for the fourth quarter and full year to 30 April 2014. Full year underlying sales and like-for-likes rose 3%. Group underlying profit before tax is expected to be at the top end of market expectations of £150 million to £160 million.
Brandt France, the new company formed following the takeover of FagorBrandt by the Algerian conglomerate Cevital Group, is to benefit from a €200 million investment plan to support the recovery of the business. Having acquired key factories, patents, technologies and brands, and the worldwide rights to De Dietrich, Cevital said it aims to become a significant force across Europe, the Middle East and North Africa and is also in a strong position to seek further acquisitions of other white goods businesses in Europe.
See www.gcmagazine.co.uk for the stories behind the news
HRH Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, visits Imagination Technologies
Tesco plans more inroads into consumer electronics territory BSkyB responds to speculation on potential acquisition Thieves target fire damaged independent electrical store Freesat partners with Manhattan in new STB deal Philips partners with CSR for Bluetooth smart connectivity Unconnected retailers losing out on revenue and loyalty BPF and BCSC call for further reform of business rates system Ebac encourages consumers to design their own washing machine
His Royal Highness Prince Edward, Duke of Kent (pictured left) visited Imagination Technologies’ new state-of-the-art head offices in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire during May. The Duke, who is said to have a keen interest in engineering and technology, met with a number of young engineers and Imagination Technology CEO Sir Hossein Yassaie (pictured right), who was knighted in the 2013 New Year Honours List for services to technology and innovation.
For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk
For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk
REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer REPIC Responsible is ourrecycling... new campaign greater consumer participation in the Recycling world of WEEE visit toourencourage new website for full details! participation in the world of WEEE recycling... visit our new website for full details!
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Cool Combis Committed to performance-enhancing innovations that consumers really want and retailers find easy to sell, LG’s Fridge Freezer range couples industry-leading technology with outstanding design. EFFICIENCY LG’s technology delivers class-leading energy ratings: up to A+++ on Fridge Freezers.
LG’S LINEAR COMPRESSOR The Compressor is a vital component in any refrigerator. It is “on duty” 24 hours a day, accounts for around 80% of the appliance’s total energy consumption and defines the performance of the entire cooling system. It is also a major contributor to the overall noise levels of the appliance. So LG’s Linear Compressor, designed with fewer moving parts to be quieter and more durable and engineered to achieve outstanding energy efficiency and high performance, delivers real benefits in all of the areas that consumers care most about.
RELIABILITY LG’s 10 Year Parts Warranty on its Linear Compressor technology gives retailers – and their customers – confidence that this key component is outstandingly durable.
BEST-IN-CLASS ENERGY EFFICIENCY LG’s technology delivers class-leading energy ratings of up to A+++ on Fridge Freezers.
installed next to a wall), the drawers can still be used. And, as the cooling appliance is often an important style-statement in the modern kitchen, the design and finish of these appliances ensure they fulfil style as well as performance demands.
QUIETLY EFFICIENT Cooling appliances operate 24 hours a day, so noise levels are important. The Linear Compressor’s fewer moving parts mean it’s appreciably quieter than conventional compressors.
FUNCTIONAL DESIGN LG’s Zero Clearance doors enable full access to the fridge & freezer, even in limited space. The perfect solution for smaller kitchens, when the freezer door is opened at a 90° angle (which could be the case if
FRESHNESS FEATURES As consumers become more careful about reducing food wastage and more concerned with fresh, tasty, healthy foods across the full range of meats, fish, salads and vegetables, LG offers practical storage solutions – from LG’s Fresh 0 Zone that stores meat and fish at 0°C, the ideal temperature to begin cooking, to technologies to keep food fresher for longer. LG Fridge Freezers have a range of storage features including “Total No Frost” where cool air is evenly spread for quicker cooling, preventing frost build up and preserving taste. “Moist Balance Crisper” manages moisture levels to ensure fruit and vegetables stay fresher for longer.
SMART DIAGNOSIS Troubleshooting has also never been easier, with Smart Diagnosis Technology enabling LG appliances to self-diagnose technical issues. This Smart technology simply requires the consumer to hold a telephone handset against the appliance whilst pushing a button situated on the refrigeration control panel. A threesecond noise will be emitted to LG’s server, which can translate over ninety different soundwaves into a diagnosis, ensuring no unnecessary engineer visits and saving time and money. If a visit should be required, the engineer, empowered with the diagnosis, can ensure a first-time fix. JUNE 2014 GET CONNECTED
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Freeview & Digital UK partner in development of connected TV proposition
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Apple acquires Beats Music and Beats Electronics Apple has confirmed its agreement to acquire subscription streaming music service Beats Music and Beats Electronics, which makes Beats headphones, speakers and audio software, for a total of $3 billion. Apple said the deal consists of a purchase price of approximately $2.6 billion and approximately $400 million “that will vest over time.” Beats co-founders Jimmy Iovine and Dr. Dre will join Apple.
Freeview and Digital UK have announced a 5-year plan to support the development and marketing of a Freeview-branded connected TV proposition which will give viewers easy access to both broadcast and on-demand TV, including a range of popular catch-up players. Ilse Howling, who previously held the role of Freeview Managing Director, has been appointed Managing Director of Connected TV at Digital UK and will lead a new dedicated team to develop the product specification for the new service based on open standards, working in close co-operation with manufacturers and industry bodies. The aim will be for manufacturers to launch a new range of connected Freeview HD televisions and set-top boxes. Consumers will be able to watch the service via their TV aerial and current broadband provider without being tied to a contract. Details on launch timing and a name for the new service are yet to be confirmed.
Peter Dearlove Peter Dearlove, Channel Manager Mass Merchandisers for Beko plc, died during May after a lengthy struggle with cancer. Peter joined Beko in 2002 following many years in the industry with Mitsubishi and Daewoo. He was instrumental in driving Beko’s TV sales before moving on to white goods, supporting Argos, Tesco and Brighthouse. “Peter was hugely popular in the trade and will be sorely missed by all of his colleagues at Beko plc,” the company said.
LG BRINGS A LITTLE MORE CONVERSATION TO HOME APPLIANCES LG Electronics is introducing its new premium smart appliances, equipped with what the company calls its “revolutionary” HomeChat™ messaging service, to the 21st century South Korean home. In another stride towards application of the “Internet of Things” to everyday domestic
life, HomeChat™ employs Natural Language Processing (NLP) and popular mobile messenger app LINE to let homeowners communicate, control, monitor and share content with LG’s latest smart appliances. It will, says LG, “make communicating with
LG’s smart refrigerator, washing machine or oven much like chatting with a close friend.” Following its launch in Korea, LG says it plans to launch the HomeChat™ compatible smart refrigerator, washing machine and oven in other markets.
See the full story at www.gcmagazine.co.uk
SHORTCUTS Fisher & Paykel ’s built-in single
Gorenje has provided a number of pyrolytic ovens, gas hobs and chimney hoods for Abinger Cookery School in Surrey. A matching set of the
oven (OB6OSL11DEPX1) with 77-litre useable
brand’s red washing and drying machines, a
capacity and 11 functions has obtained Good
freestanding dishwasher and the burgundy retro
Housekeeping Approved Accreditation.
fridge have also been installed.
Refrigerators from LG
The Bosch range of iTemp irons and steam
Electronics
incorporating the company’s Inverter Linear Compressor technology have been recognised
generators has achieved accreditation from the Good Housekeeping Institute.
by the Association for Electrical, Electronic and Information Technologies (VDE) for their energy efficiency and quiet performance. Cooling specialist Liebherr has won a Red
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Servis has partnered with Rombouts Coffee to offer consumers the chance of winning one of ten retro-style fridge freezers. The promotion is advertised on the packaging of Rombouts One
Dot Design Award for its SBS7014 side-by-side
Cup Coffee Filters and Café Biscuits in all major
fridge freezer, the latest addition to its 2014
supermarket chains and can be entered via the
integrated collection.
Rombouts website.
GET CONNECTED JUNE 2014
Currys & PC World’s SMART Tech zones launch Currys & PC World is opening SMART Tech zones, initially in five of its biggest stores (Staples Corner, Thurrock, Cribbs Causeway, Stockton & J9), with the aim of providing consumers with a handson experience allowing them to test the most innovative and cutting-edge products in one dedicated retail space. The retailer said the zones will be rolled out progressively to other locations in the UK, and consumers’ in-store access to new technologies and advice from specially trained staff will be augmented by a new, dedicated space visible on the Currys & PC World websites, where online browsers can explore detailed product information. Dixons Retail UK & Ireland CEO Katie Bickerstaffe said: “We know that our customers are looking for convenience and have an ever-growing need for connected products that they can access remotely, as well as the latest gadgets, and these innovative zones offer just that.” The SMART Tech zone areas will be divided by four category pillars: Smart Home, Smart Health, Smart Watches and Smart Gadgets.
The Word : Industry News
FOR ALL THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS
AO World plc reported revenue up 40.0% to £384.9m
Early forecasts from Sony sources said the net loss for the year
for the year ended 31 March 2014, driven by increased order
to March 2015 is expected to be around ¥50 billion. President
volumes at slightly higher average order values to the previous
and CEO Kazuo Hirai said Sony is aiming to raise consolidated
year. Growth was primarily from ao-branded website sales,
operating profit to around ¥400 billion in FY15 (fiscal year
which grew 45.4% to £287.1m and now account for 74.6%
ending 31 March 2016) as a result of business reforms.
of total group revenue, compared with 71.8% for the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA increased by 10.9% to £11.2m
Sharp Electronics returned to profit in the
– a margin fall to 2.9% was largely due to marketing and
year ended 31st March 2014, after three years of losses. The
advertising expenses as a result of the brand migration and
company posted net income of ¥11.5 billion, compared to
subsequent TV campaigns. £15.4m of exceptional costs relating
losses of ¥545.3 billion last year. Revenues rose 18.1% to
to the company’s LSE launch resulted in an operating loss of
¥2,927.1 billion. For the year ending 31st March 2015, Sharp is
£7.2m (2013 operating profit £8.4m).
forecasting a net profit of ¥30 billion on sales of ¥3,000 billion.
BSH reported annual sales growth in all regions but profits
Beko parent Arçelik posted revenues up 15.3% for the
were hit by a global recall on dishwashers. The company
three months ended 31st March 2014. Sales reached TL 2.802
posted sales for 2013 up 7.2% to €10.5 billion, stating that it
million with gross profits of TL 892 million – 20.8% higher
“bucked the market trend” in Western Europe to boost both
than the comparable period in 2013. Operating profit rose
revenue and market share. Growth was strongest in the UK
from TL 159 million to TL 240 million. Net income grew 0.3%
and Spain, both of which grew by 11%. A worldwide initiative
to TL 135 million.
to address a potential safety issue affecting a limited number of dishwashers kept earnings before income and tax below the
Indesit Company reported Group revenues of
previous year’s level, but at a “still satisfactory” €509 million.
€560.1 million for the first quarter of 2014, a 6.6% fall on the
Sony’s consolidated financial results for the year to 31
€599.5 million achieved in the first quarter of 2013. Operating profit for the quarter was €14 million compared to €12 million
March 2014 showed a loss of ¥128.4 billion for the period, some
in the comparable period last year. The Group’s net loss for the
three times the loss in the previous full year. The company
quarter was €6.2 million, compared to a profit of €4.1 million
warned that it will not return to profitability until after 2015.
in Q1 2013.
Moves Gorenje UK has appointed David Hall as the firm’s South West regional sales manager.
Britannia Living has expanded its external sales team with the appointment of David Murray as new business development manager.
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GET CONNECTED JUNE 2014
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT
The WEEE Forum has appointed REPIC CEO Philip Morton as its new President and Chairman. He succeeds outgoing President José Ramón Carbajosa. Richard Walker, former sales and marketing director at De Dietrich Kitchen Appliances has joined GDHA in the role of Head of Category for Built-in across all brands.
NEW LAUNDRY RANGE FROM ZANUSSI Zanussi’s new laundry range offers consumers just what they want. Zanussi’s 10kg washing machine and 8kg tumble dryer feature huge drum capacities and clever programmes that make doing the laundry that little bit easier. The washing machine can manage up to 75 items* of clothing in one load! It also features three quick-wash programmes and an option to delay the end of the cycle so that customers can choose exactly when their washing will finish. The heat pump tumble dryer also keeps energy costs to a minimum and delivers incredibly gentle garment care all year round. *75 items is based on washing 15x jumpers, 15x t shirts, 15x trousers, 15x underwear, 15x socks
Zanussi Trade Sales Number:
08445 610 610 www.zanussi.co.uk
George Cole
GEORGE COLE G E T S
C O N N E C T E D
WHAT NEXT FOR TELEVISION? E
very year, the Berlin-based IFA international trade show holds a global press conference. This year, it was in Belek, Turkey, and once again there was a very interesting presentation on the future of television by Paul Gray, director, TV Electronics & Europe TV Research at DisplaySearch, the market research and consultancy company. I also got to speak to Paul afterwards.
3DTV – THE LESSONS LEARNT
Paul Gray didn’t mince his words when it came to 3DTV. “3D was dead before dawn,� he said. “It’s all about the experience, and 3D needed to be better than HD.� So what went wrong? “I think people pushed too fast, too soon. Brands started offering 3D all through their product range, at lower and lower prices. It was industry push not consumer pull. While push was appropriate for LCD, which was about capacity expansion and economies of scale, in 3D there was no capacity or scale dimension to the economics,� he said. “3D went from being a format with high frame rates to one that offered frame rates of 24- or 50 Hz, and it just looked awful.� Another mistake was not seeing the difference between watching 3D in a cinema and viewing it at home. “When you go to see a movie, you’ve effectively cleared your diary for two or three hours. But at home, there are many distractions – you go off and make a cup of tea, the doorbell rings, your child comes downstairs saying they can’t sleep... So you’re taking off your glasses and putting them back on. All this meant that 3D was an uphill struggle.�
4K – IT’S ABOUT FRAME RATE
Paul Gray says that, for the LCD TV industry, Ultra High Definition TV, or 4K, is a chance to rebuild value and profitability in the business – provided self-destructive urges are resisted. Many people are focusing on the increased resolution offered by 4K displays (four times that of 1080p Full HD), but Paul says: “A 1080p image with a 120Hz frame rate looks better than 4K at 60Hz. A high frame rate is necessary, because a slow rate means blur and judder.� The big issue is content and we’re still
georgecole@gcmagazine.co.uk
George Cole pinpoints hotspots in the world of consumer electronics
a couple of years away from UHD TV broadcasts. In Germany, Sky has been experimenting with ways of using 4K to enhance viewing, such as providing multiple viewpoints and replays, which don’t disrupt normal viewing. The biggest market for 4K will be China, where half the sets shipped this year will end up, and it’s the Chinese brands that could drive down the cost of 4K sets, says Paul. “I think there’s going to be another round of hyper-competition in the market and the Chinese are going to have a bash at the market. This is going to be a war of attrition.� DisplaySearch’s forecasts for the 4K market do not make for happy reading for the industry: “Our view is that 4K will do nothing for profitability in the industry. The longterm upshot is that the amount of fighting for market share will keep margins exactly where they are – at the just not quite intolerable level.� I’ll be taking another look at 4K in my next column.
A 1080p image with a 120Hz frame rate looks better than 4K at 60Hz. A high frame rate is necessary, because a slow rate means blur and judder.
WEARABLES – A NEW OPPORTUNITY?
On a brighter note, Paul Gray sees a lot of potential in the emerging wearables market. These are personal electronics devices that range from smart watches to fitness and activity trackers. But with so many wearable devices purchased from online retailers and other outlets, is there really a market for the electrical retailer? “The competition is certainly going to be more varied: you could imagine outdoor, cycle and health retailers all wanting a piece of the action. However, what I like about wearables is that people will demand something that they feel looks good on them, and that they can personalise. If we bought watches on functionality we would all wear ÂŁ15 black, waterproof Casios. Yet, jewellery and clothes are markets which have more independent retailers, so there is definitely an opportunity. What is different about these categories is that people like the trying-out experience as part of purchasing.â€? And even if consumers do tend to purchase most wearable devices online, there will be plenty of scope for retailers to sell accessories for them.
JUNE 2014 GET CONNECTED
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The Product Gallery
The
Gallery Stoves adds new side-by-side and French-door models to cooling range Glen Dimplex Home Appliances’ brand Stoves has extended its collection of cooling products with two A+ energy-rated side-by-side and French-door fridge freezers, FD90 and SXS90, available in black and stainless steel finishes. The 90cm wide French-door model features:
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542-litre net capacity (Fridge 422 / Freezer 120) Fridge: 5 x glass shelves, 2 x salad drawers, long drawer LED lighting / Frost-free technology Audible door alarm / Temperature warning light Two wide freezer drawers Internal twist ice-cube maker in top freezer drawer
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www.stoves.co.uk
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Samsung Food ShowCase refrigerator arrives in the UK
Sharp brings nextgeneration FHD viewing experience to UK market
Samsung’s Food ShowCase refrigerator is available in three variants, and what makes it different from other models is that it has a ‘ShowCase’ door which opens to reveal easyaccess storage compartments.
Sharp’s new Quattron Pro TV range (UQ10) offers a next-generation Full HD viewing experience, with over 2.5 times the number of sub-pixels than FHD panels and more than a billion shades of colour. The company is promoting the units as “the only Full HD TVs on the market able to display Ultra HD (4K) native content in effectively UHD resolution through HDMI.”
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Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (native); 3840 x 2160 (effective) / Up-scaler technology THX Display certification Integration with mobile and smart devices Gesture control with smartphones or tablets via Aquos Remote Lite app Ports: 4x HDMI, 3x USB, 1x SCART, component, Ethernet Aquos Net+ offers selection of Video-on-Demand services and free worldwide TV channels 60”, 70” and 80” screen sizes
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www.sharp.co.uk
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ShowCase door with customisable food compartments for everyday items such as sauces, drinks and snacks InnerCase stores large containers and items such as meat, fruit and vegetables ’All-Around Cooling’ cools fridge and freezer sections evenly Ice & water dispenser Smart Digital Inverter technology improves energy efficiency, noise levels and cooling performance
www.samsung.com/uk/home
Miele’s Scout RX1 “sets new standards” in robotic vacuum cleaners Miele’s Scout RX1 robotic vacuum cleaner incorporates a Smart Navigation system that uses the principle of systematic navigation but with enhanced electronics and software, which the German brand says makes it a “benchmark” product in terms of navigation.
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Indoor positioning system, digital ceiling camera and gyro sensor Anti-collision sensors (7) and Anti-fall sensors (3) Non-stop power cycle duration 120 mins cycle / Non-stop power floor capacity 150 m2 Recharging time 120 mins Triple cleaning system / 4 cleaning programmes Capacity 0.6 litres Manual cleaning / Timer / Remote control handset
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www.miele.co.uk
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GET CONNECTED JUNE 2014
The Product Gallery
Retro Diner Double Pie Maker by Gourmet Gadgetry Gourmet Gadgetry is promoting its Retro Double Pie Maker as the perfect gift for those who like to have fun in the kitchen. The appliance will cook two evenly baked, savoury or sweet homemade pies in less than 8 minutes.
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Pastry and filling recipe ideas included Non-stick baking plates Double-sided pastry cutter supplied Metallic red finish Compact and easy to store
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01322 901025 www.gourmetgadgetry.com
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AEG Hob2Hood Connect Media 4: sound quality promises to raise the ‘sound bar’ Armour Home’s Q Acoustics brand has launched ‘Media 4’, a stereo 2.1 configuration soundbar with 100 Watts of multi-channel power amplification, aptX BluetoothTM connectivity and a built-in subwoofer. j
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Connections: Digital optical in via Toslink / Analogue in via 2 x RCA/phono / Analogue in via 3.5mm minijack Frequency response (Hz): 20 - 20,000 Speakers: 2 x BMR 65 x 65mm drivers / 1 x twin coil 120 x 150mmm subwoofer Accessories: Remote control, RCA phono cable, 3.5mm minijack cable, anti-vibration feet, wall-mounting plate
0844 800 8528 www.qacoustics.co.uk
This 80cm 4-zone AEG MaxiSense® induction hob (model HK854401FB) connects with a choice of three extractor hoods in the AEG range to automatically control the hood according to the hob settings. The hottest zone determines the signal that is sent to the hood, although a touch pad on the hob allows the user to change or cancel the fan speed manually. j
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AutoMax quickly brings pan contents to the boil then reduces to the preselected power level automatically Power Booster for intense rapid heat up Energy-saving Öko Timer uses residual heat to complete the last few minutes of cooking Stop+Go reduces zones to keep-warm setting if cooking interrupted (remembers selected settings) OptiHeat control with 3 levels of residual heat on each cooking zone Hood options: X69453MD02; X69453BC03; X69453MV01
08445 611 611 www.aeg.co.uk
Candy thinks big with new Maxi Plate dishwasher The A+ rated Candy Maxi Plate CDIM 3653 dishwasher accommodates up to 8 large plates of 34.5cm in diameter and has enough space in the lower basket for large baking trays and oven shelves. The 15 place-setting model has two main baskets and a top basket that provides space for cooking utensils and items such as small cups.
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6 programmes Adjustable upper baskets / 3D Drawer Start delay 3, 6 & 9 hours 10-litre water consumption / Noise level 44 db(A) Aqua protect system
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www.candy-domestic.co.uk
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JUNE 2014 GET CONNECTED
13
Cooling
Dynamic cooling ...products can work for households’ individual lifestyles, as opposed to individual lifestyles having to fit around the products”
F
ridge freezers have always been considered one of the most energyhungry appliances in our homes. They operate 24/7 all year round, so it is little wonder that uninformed consumers find it difficult to associate the words “energy efficient” with such appliances. Yet, according to industry association AMDEA, the most dramatic drop in domestic appliance energy consumption in the 20 years from 1990 to 2010 has been in cooling appliances: energy consumption fell by over half during this period, and significant ongoing improvements have been made since. In 2011 AMDEA produced a real life, inhome test between an 18 year-old fridge freezer and a new EST Recommended A+ appliance of the same size. Based on the price of energy at that time, the old model cost £139 a year to run, while the new appliance cost just £38 a year – equating to a 73% saving in energy. Today, at a “conservative” estimate, AMDEA says there are probably between 7 – 8 million cooling appliances of 10 years old or more still in use in the UK. It’s a staggering number. But why do so many consumers lack the motivation to update their old fridges/freezers?
FACT
Kitchen upgrades and distress purchases remain the two top reasons for the purchase of new cooling appliances, and the majority of consumers nowadays are unlikely to buy without checking out their options on the internet first, at which point most then become aware of the extent of innovation in this appliance category. We’re not suggesting that the UK population lives in a bubble, but few are aware of the high levels of energy 14
GET CONNECTED MAY 2014
efficiency, the food preservation systems, improved airflow and hygiene technologies, capacity and flexible storage options, all of which mean that products can work for households’ individual lifestyles, as opposed to individual lifestyles (including shopping habits) having to fit around the products.
ADJUSTMENT
Rising household costs and diminishing spending power have been prominent aspects of this second decade of the 21st century and it is evident that consumers have adjusted to new ways of maintaining the pre-recessionary status quo: buying in bulk to take advantage of discounts
and entertaining at home continue to rise, cooking from scratch and a healthier diet incorporating fresh fruit and vegetables is also a feature of modern-day life, and experimenting with different foodstuffs from alternative sources are all part of the ongoing transformation of old habits. Craig Davies, Managing Director of Sub-Zero & Wolf UK, observes consumers showing genuine interest in good food, for the purpose of both nutrition and enjoyment. He makes reference to organic food and that from farmers’ markets and notes the desire to preserve such high quality produce. “All of this has resulted in consumers investing in larger capacity, higher quality
B40DSS FRIDGE-FREEZER FROM BAUMATIC This A+ US-inspired fridge freezer is feature packed, with frost-free operation, multiairflow cooling system and an ice drawer. It has a hefty 542-litre total capacity, 422 litres of which are dedicated to the fridge compartment, which has uber-easy French door access. Two drawers give easy access to the freezer area, with full LED lighting throughout the cabinet providing illuminated access from the fridge to the freezer. Full control is at users’ fingertips with the touch screen control panel, and the appliance operates at a quiet 45dB(A) noise level. Dimensions: (H177.5 x W91.1 x D72.9cm).
www.baumatic.co.uk
Servis’s American-style fridge freezer has two Flexi-zone freezer compartments that can be converted into additional fridge zones
refrigeration incorporating the most advanced food preservation technology,” he says. “Larger fridge-to-freezer ratio units are in demand, along with wider cavities to allow for easier storage and retrieval of platters and containers of food. Consumers want to purchase a product that will enhance and extend the life of their fresh and frozen food, which is likely to be a combination of freshness/ preservation technology, build and design quality plus energy efficiency and, of course, good looks. “There are lots of new developments in food preservation, from nano-spill technology to prevent liquids from spilling over glass shelving, to air purification systems based on technology developed for NASA. Dual compressor systems are used to keep the air separate between fridge and freezer compartments, preventing odour transfer and extending the life of fresh and frozen food by maintaining accurate and precise temperature and humidity levels for each compartment. Consumers are looking for features like these to ensure that they get the maximum life from their fresh and frozen foods, while reducing food wastage and their carbon footprint.”
WASTAGE
The need to reduce food waste is indeed a topical issue – one that gained traction during the UK’s economic downturn as the scale of the problem came to light. Media sources were quick to pick up on the appalling waste of perishable
goods recorded by supermarkets in particular, and the surprising figure attributed to UK households, many of which were bang in the middle of the so-called economic “squeeze”. According to WRAP, approximately 60% of household food waste, with a value of around £6.7 billion, arises from products not used in time. The majority of this is made up of perishable/short shelflife items and includes 17 billion ‘5-a-day’ portions of fresh produce bought but not eaten each year. Maytag’s Juliana Sado, Senior Brand Marketing Manager for Northern Europe, points out that consumers are being taught the benefits of fresh, good-quality ingredients via a number of different channels; therefore, the refrigerator needs to provide longlasting preservation technologies that will reduce food wastage and save households money, and also store produce better so it retains its texture, flavour and nutritional elements for longer. Sado is keen to highlight that Maytag’s three-door fridge freezers have full electronic control which monitors and fine tunes temperature to ensure long lasting food preservation. “Multi-zoning, electronic technology and storage areas dedicated to a variety of food types have all been incorporated, including a ‘super cool’ function that quickly cools food and a humidity controlled crisper drawer that keeps produce fresher for longer.”
SAVINGS
Whirlpool UK has been working together with WRAP and the Love Food Hate Waste Campaign for some time now to raise awareness of food wastage in the UK and to
“Energy efficiency is important, especially as these appliances are switched on 24 hours a day. For example, a fridge can use up to 25% of a household electricity bill and upgrading to an energy efficient fridge can make a great difference to the consumer’s electricity spend.” Caple sales director Danny Lay
Cooling
“Consumers may think they are saving money by holding onto an old appliance but by simply upgrading to an A+ rated model they could save more than £75 a year. Upgrade to a super energy efficient A+++ fridge and they could save almost £100 per year. In no time at all, their new fridge freezer will have paid for itself.” Andrew Wasdell, Product Manager, Food Preservation, Electrolux Major Appliances encourage consumers to make the most of the food they buy. Trade Marketing Manager Juan Pillay quotes numbers as opposed to words when he approaches the topic of savings that could be made by choosing the right appliance: “Whirlpool Absolute refrigerators, such as the [British EMRA award-winning] WBA 33992 NFC IX, deliver an estimated total food and energy saving of over £1,600 during the appliance lifetime.” For the purpose of this study, an average appliance lifetime was assumed to be seven years. Pillay attributes the saving to Whirlpool’s 6TH SENSE® Fresh Control technology, which preserves food freshness up to four times longer throughout the entire refrigeration cabinet. Sensors check constantly to ensure the humidity level is maintained between 70% and 85%, “unlike traditional models that guarantee only 30%,” so food doesn’t dehydrate and nutritional value, vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants are preserved for longer. He also notes that internal temperature is restored five times faster following any variation, and foodstuffs such as fresh ham will keep fresher for four days longer, spinach three days more and pears up to seventeen days longer. Whirlpool’s Activ0° compartment, also featured on the awardwinning Absolute WBA 33992 NFC IX, is specially designed for the storage of meat and fish and is button activated. “It can be seen as a fridge within a fridge,” Pillay explains. “The temperature is maintained at around 0°C, guaranteeing freshness and preserving the food’s nutritional value and appearance.”
CHOICE
Food preservation technologies come in a number of guises. LG, for example, has a Fresh Zero Zone compartment that constantly operates at zero degrees for storing meat and fish at the perfect temperature in preparation for cooking, and a Moist Balance Crisper which controls moisture by locking it in to a lattice design to keep fruit and vegetables fresher for longer. Panasonic’s Vitamin-Safe compartment is optimised to a high moisture level and equipped with an adjustable temperature gauge (between 0˚C - 5˚C) to prevent fruit and vegetables from drying out, while the 16
GET CONNECTED MAY 2014
brand’s side-by-sides incorporate Hygiene Active, a combination of technologies that protect food from harmful bacteria. Head of Marketing for Home Appliances Zeena Hill explains that the system includes a combined lifetime air filter, air circulation and LED light system which produce a natural anti-bacterial cleanser that eliminates 99.9999 percent of bacteria. Servis’s American-style fridge freezer incorporates a fan-controlled Vitastore drawer to reduce moisture loss in fresh fruits and vegetables by as much as 60%. Hotpoint has a Food Care Zone 0°C compartment that uses airflow to keep meat and fish fresher for longer, and Slovenian brand Gorenje has a FreshZone compartment for fruit, vegetables and meat, which is operated by a simple slider mechanism to control humidity at the optimum level.
A splash of vibrant colour: Smeg’s FAB28 refrigerator
the top end of the market, plumbed-in water and automatic ice dispensers are also continuing to sell well, alongside products that offer multi-zone temperature controls to really boost food preservation capabilities. LED lighting and energy-saving features continue to be important to consumers.”
GOOD FIT
Hoover Candy UK’s Steve Macdonald, Trade Marketing Director, Freestanding Division, comments that increasingly busy lifestyles mean many consumers are tending towards weekly shopping. “Therefore,” he says, “cooling appliances with greater capacity are coming into their own. The ideal appliance really depends on the consumer’s lifestyle and how they plan to use the product. 50/50 is a popular configuration and is ideal for consumers who want to store plenty of fresh and frozen food, particularly if they want
TRENDS
GDHA’s Ben Peach, Product Manager for the Lec cooling brand, observes a “major” movement in chest freezers and appliances with large freezer compartments – products split evenly between freezing and cooling – which he maintains is an indication that families are bulk buying food to combat shrinking family budgets and using freezers to reduce wastage. “UK consumers freeze a lot of food, hence the demand for more freezing capacity, which is one of the reasons that Lec has recently launched the TS55184 combi with five-drawer freezer.” Peach also notes the continuing appeal of side-by-sides and adds that Frenchdoor styled appliances with double doors on the fridge and freezer drawers at the bottom are becoming more prominent due to their ease of use. His view of this area of the cooling market is supported by GfK, which reports that the American-style fridge freezers category has seen rapid recovery over the past few years (See page 19 of this issue). In terms of features and selling points, Peach states that frost free continues to be a major part of the market as consumers look for low-maintenance appliances. Water dispensers remain the fastest growing feature in demand, with many more brands at all market levels – including Lec – entering this sector. “At
GENESI REFRIGERATION COLOUR OPTIONS AND STEEL REFRIGERATION TRIM OPTIONS Steel is an Italian company with a long family heritage. Innovation and functionality are the bywords for its aesthetic designs and professional approach to kitchen appliances, which now include side-by-side refrigeration. From the funky colours of Genesi to traditional Ascot or the contemporary look of the Sintesi, Steel refrigeration is
truly for the design-led kitchen. Tempered glass shelves, humidity control drawers, water and ice dispenser, LED temperature control and a convenient bottle storage and defrosting compartment are just a few of the features that come as standard. Steel also produces ranges, hoods and cookers that complement its cooling products.
For further information, contact Bradshaw on:
01275 343000 www.bradshaw.co.uk
Refreshing design and ice cold water on tap
A+ Energy Rated Refrigeration with Water Through Door feature A+ energy rated, so you can be sure that your Lec is doing its job in the most efficient way possible.
www.lec.co.uk
Cooling
to take advantage of supermarket multibuys. This configuration works for those who have plenty of fresh food and also do a full weekly shop in-store or online. For those who shop more frequently, or perhaps purchase more fresh food, a 70-30 split may be preferable.” To which we should add: freezers operate more efficiently if they are well stocked, but fridges should not be overloaded, as they have to work extra hard and use more energy to keep produce cool. “It is important for retailers to ask the right questions to discover what exactly customers are looking for,” says Macdonald. “By enquiring about lifestyles, kitchen and family size, as well as style and colour preferences, retailers can help to advise on which appliance is right for their customer. For example, if space is an issue, retailers may consider products with a smaller width, like the Hoover Dynamic HNC5174 at 54.5cm wide. Flat-back models like those in the Dynamic range feature concealed compressors which mean that they can be fitted almost flush against the wall.
FRESHER COLOURS AND FRESHER INGREDIENTS FROM ELECTROLUX Electrolux Inspiration fridge freezers will add a splash of welcome colour to any kitchen, creating a stunning focal point in the room. They have been designed based on the needs of professional chefs for the freshest possible ingredients. These stylish fridge freezers are packed with technology that will keep food fresher for longer and they offer huge amounts of internal storage space, including FreshZone compartments which are perfect for storing fresh meat and fish in optimum conditions. A large pullout drawer stores up to 128 apples while the entire fridge can store two weeks’ worth of shopping for family meals. Electrolux Trade Sales:
08445 610 561 www.electrolux.co.uk term benefit. Capacity is also important to discuss as the fridge is often more than just a fridge – it is a complete food storage solution.” Stuart Benson, National Sales Manager at Gorenje, which recently introduced
“Consumers have increased awareness of food hygiene and there is a global focus on the amount of food we throw away. They’re now looking for appliances with new technologies such as Hotpoint’s innovative Active Oxygen technology to help them win the war on waste by keeping food in tip top condition for longer.” Darren Peake, Senior Category Manager, Hotpoint built-in
Retailers and designers also need to work closely with manufacturers to keep up to date with the latest innovations in the cooling sector.”
KEY FEATURES
“Bigger is still better,” asserts Smeg product development manager Joan Fraser, “but we’ve noticed a growing trend for separate fridges and freezers, as people want more storage capacity. Statement pieces are particularly popular, in line with the current trend for openplan living. The fridge freezer is one of the major freestanding appliance purchases, so the designs vary greatly to work with each individual’s needs. “Consumers are now in search of efficient appliances that are affordable to run, so when they visit a retailer to buy a replacement product or purchase appliances for their new kitchen, energysaving features will be high on their priority list. Point out the key features to look for, as well as the energy rating system, and consumers are willing to trade-up to higher specification models that include the latest energy-saving technology, as they can see the long18
GET CONNECTED MAY 2014
anti-bacterial IonAir Technology into a number of its appliances, says the present buying priorities for consumers begin with style and space before considerations such as energy ratings, running costs, the length of warranty and product specification. “Features that preserve the life of food are becoming much more widely understood and more of a priority on the buying agenda,” he adds. “Colour is another important element as it is becoming increasingly popular for consumers to colour match or make a standout feature of their appliance.”
IN STORE
The explanation of key features and benefits of cooling technology can often be difficult for consumers to understand, particularly if the technology is ‘invisible’, so a well-trained team of product experts and good use of the external and internal POS provided by manufacturers can only be of benefit in encouraging trade-up and securing both sales and margins. Jacqui Hoctor, Commercial Manager at Britannia, adds that optimising volumes and margins in a confusing and competitive market such as cooling also demands a close working relationship with suppliers. “At Britannia we understand the relevance of supporting our retailers,” she says. “Key areas are comprehensive displays, product training, live in-store demonstrations, promotions and offers, excellent customer service and technical backup.” LG Head of Brand Marketing Dawn Stockell maintains that in-store product displays constantly rank amongst the most important consumer touch-points and this is an area that LG is devoting a significant amount of attention to in 2014. LG is amongst a number of suppliers now engaging with the trade to implement ‘shop in shop’ concepts for its products and to support the independent channel. Liebherr, too, has moved in this direction. Mark Bristow, MD for Coolectric, Liebherr’s UK distributor, says: “Our ‘shop in shop’ concept is lucrative for the retailer and the Liebherr brand. It sells added value and features and therefore drives up the independent retailer’s cash margin. For Liebherr, there are shared costs and promotion, whilst creating demand and a quicker route to market.” Bristow adds that retailers should ensure their displays are set out with a ‘good, better and best’ range. “Choosing a good spectrum of trade-up price-point displays ensures you are able to satisfy individual consumer needs.” To which Maytag’s Sado adds: “Refrigeration sales extend well beyond the summer months – if you have the right models on the shop floor.” Fisher & Paykel’s RB60V18 fridge freezer features a ‘Max Cool’ function that boosts the cooling power to ensure that nutrients, freshness, texture and taste are retained
Growth from Knowledge
Cooling market boosted by premium products GfK’s Seema Boyd, Senior Account Manager, MDA Panel, takes a look at the current trends in the cooling sector
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he refrigeration market has been a key driver of growth within the overall white goods sector, accounting for a quarter of all major appliances sales.
VALUE
Over the past twelve months (MAT May13-Apr14), total value sales have risen 7%, with both the freestanding and built in sectors recording an uplift. Whilst traditional fridge freezers remain the most popular type of refrigeration appliance, contributing almost two thirds of total value sales, the standout performance has come from premium, big capacity segments.
RECOVERY
After suffering badly during the recession, the market for American-style fridge freezers has seen rapid recovery over the past few years as the poor state of the property market encouraged more consumers to renovate their current homes rather than relocate. These aspirational products have since become a consumer favourite and are seen by many as a centrepiece feature for the kitchen
which will add value to their homes. As a result, consumers are willing to spend an average of ÂŁ857 to achieve the desired look, despite having to pay almost two and a half times the price of a regular fridge freezer. The category is now worth over ÂŁ128 million, equating to 16% of the total cooling market. The popularity of side-by-side products has also led to the growth of even larger fridge freezers. The 3 door+ sector saw value sales increase by 23% over the past year and looks set to gain further consumer support going forward.
ONLINE GROWTH
Apart from size, growth in internet sales was the other significant factor behind the success of the cooling market, as well as other major appliance markets. Online purchases account for over a third of all refrigeration value sales, growing by 23% over the past year, whereas in store sales remained flat. Consumers are becoming more comfortable making big-ticket purchases through the web, perceiving it to be the best place to find a bargain. It also
offers greater price transparency and product comparability than shopping in-store. The physical size of major appliances lends itself Apart from size, well to this type of growth in internet sales purchase as the delivery was the other significant and installation of new products and the factor behind the removal of old appliances success of the cooling can be arranged at the market...� point of purchase. These time-saving and convenience factors are helping to drive online sales, especially for consumers making distress replacement purchases.
TOP-END TREND
Premium appliances have fuelled market value growth but total volume sales have started to slow down. Perhaps the investment in top spec appliances means that product lifecycles are being extended and people are replacing less often. That said, the UK housing market is showing signs of recovery, which could help encourage sales, and the category overall has proven its resilience in tough times.
GfK Panelmarket Data Great Britain
Online Share
36 %
REFRIGERATION Value growth fuelled by large capacity fridge freezers
MAT Market Growth
Market Share by Type
May13-Apr14 vs. May12-Apr13
5% 16%
16% 16%
5%5% 18%
YoY Value Growth
18% 18% 1 door 1 door fridges fridges 1 door fridges
Value Volume Volume Value Value Volume
2 door 2 door fridge fridge 2 door fridge freezers freezers freezers Side Side by by side side Side by side
1% 1% 1%
doors doors 3+ doors3+ 3+
7% 7% 7% 61%
61% 61%
23% 23% 23% 13% 13% 13% Side byby Side Side bySide Side 3+3+ doors doors 3+Side doors
For further information, contact Seema Boyd, Senior Account Manager, MDA Panel: seema.boyd@gfk.com +44 870 603 8114 www.gfk.com/uk www.twitter.com/gfkrtuk JUNE 2014 GET CONNECTED
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From The Bench
Upgrading with GADGETS Alan Bennett looks at accessories which can bring TVs and other boxes into 2014
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echnology moves at an everincreasing pace, sometimes leaving quite modern equipment on the beach of obsolescence. Not usually stranded, though! In many cases there is a solution, usually some kind of external box, to satisfy the needs of users who won’t or can’t replace their equipment with the latest model. If you cannot sell them a new TV, at least you may be able to sell – and install? – a problem solver.
STACKING AND EXPANDING
Starting outside the TV set, many flats and other dwellings are equipped with only one satellite-feed wall socket. No problem with a single receiver, but if a Sky+ or a second box is required, for example in a bedroom, the two will clash. So a second independent feed is required, all the way up to the (multiple) LNB. This is difficult where the wiring is inaccessible in a duct inside the walls or where permission to run a duplicate cable is not forthcoming. A neat solution, though it may call for a new LNB or even a second dish, is the Global stacker, which shoehorns both feeds into a single cable, and splits them at the bottom. It sells at about £90. For many years now TVs have been fitted with HDMI sockets, but some of the earlier models had only one or two, and all new peripheral equipment now uses this type of connector for AV signals. To the rescue come various types of HDMI switches and expanders. These start at about £30, and are available from the likes of Keene Electronics. Occasionally, a ‘backwards’ step is required, where a late-model TV has only one Scart socket –
Global Invacom satellite stacker/destacker 20
GET CONNECTED JUNE 2014
or none at all – for hook-up to legacy equipment. Scart selector boxes are still available as are Scartto-HDMI adapters.
WIDEBAND
Increasingly, people are looking to receive TV programmes via the internet, often not realising the large bandwidth required for trouble-free reception”...
Increasingly, people are looking to receive TV programmes via the internet, often not realising the large bandwidth required for trouble-free reception, most particularly for Ultra-HD (4K) pictures; at present the internet is the only source of these. The line operators, primarily BT, see bandwidth as a very marketable commodity, and here there is no inhome box to help: a wideband link to the exchange is needed, ideally a fibre one for best futureproofing. Where there are not enough phone sockets in the home, extenders and expanders (mainly wireless and powerline types) are offered by many manufacturers and distributors. Ensure that the prospective purchase can handle the bandwidth available on the incoming line...
SMART UPDATE
Roku model, retailing at a mere £30 or so, though it sports no remote control. It can access BBC iPlay, BT Sports (subscription required), Netflix, YouTube and others. Like the streaming stick it can be powered from the mains or from the TV’s USB port, and it wirelessly connects to a PC – running Google’s Chrome web browser, about which I had something to say in my November 2012 column. Other dualpurpose set-top boxes like the NowTV device and Blu-ray players with Smart feature offer alternative upgrade paths, with more profit to the dealer!
Since 3D TV has not taken off as well as the industry hoped, the main thrust of recent TV development has been in Smart technology, in which the main large-screen TV is able to access the internet, and particularly a range of sites and services selected and highlighted by the setmaker. Two similarly-specified gadgets have been recently introduced to the market to update TVs without this feature. The Roku Streaming Stick, featured in George Cole’s April column (page 22), costs about £50 and hooks into an HDMI socket. It offers about 750 channels, including catch-up ones, also Wi-Fi. Competition comes from the Apple TV device and Google’s Chromecast, which is cheaper than the
SOFTWARE U UPDATING
TV manufacturers are not known for providing retro-fit hardware or featureenhancing software, though most are pledging it (see below) for use when the standards for 4K/UHD TV broadcasting and home-movie storage are established in future, in some cases, perhaps, at great expense to the user where complete data-processing modules or PC boards are required. Meanwhile most setmakers offer software upgrades or workarounds to overcome existing operational problems and compatibility issues, and it’s worth checking with them to see what’s available for the TV model in question; some offer minor feature improvements, and most are easily downloaded, typically via the service engineer’s PC.
THE FUTURE
Most of the gadgets and accessories mentioned above are relatively inexpensive, and new ones will come on stream wherever they are practical and in demand. The big question mark lies over 4K/UHD TVs, where the present lack of industry standards will demand modifications and updates to enable them to receive and decode UHD transmissions and recordings. An HDMI 2.0 socket is only the start, and it needs to be got as clear as possible between the setmaker, dealer and customer what is the likely upgrade path for an existing 4K set and at whose expense it will be implemented. This may avoid big trouble and much argument further down the line.
Backchat
Who would you put into Room 101? Jose Mourinho, he’s turned into a clown
Why did you choose to work in the electrical industry? It just happened. I was in the fragrance business and went for an interview with Bristol Myers and ended up as a National Accounts Manager for the Clairol Appliances division. I’ve been in the industry ever since for my sins! Who in the industry would you like to spend time with? There are too many good people to choose just one. Very diplomatic answer!! What makes you laugh? There’s a funny side to everyone and everything What was the greatest turning point in your life? Marrying my second wife Hobbies? I attempt to play golf once a week
Greatest achievement? Being involved in the start up of a major personal care company in the UK What sort of music do you like? A wide range, but mainly ‘60s, ‘70s Favourite quote? He who laughs last laughs longest
2-minute
Interview
He’s diplomatic (except perhaps in the matter
Name your poison A bottle or two of good French Red
cuisine of the north west, enjoys good French red, and can see the humour in most things.
What do you daydream about? Long hot summers by the sea Favourite holiday destination? Warm climates, particularly the Indian Ocean
What’s the worst lie you’ve ever told? I don’t tell lies….trust me!! Greatest regret? Marrying my first wife!!
What’s the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? I must have had a boring life, as nothing that bad has ever happened…. lucky me
What historic figure do you identify with most? No one How would you describe yourself? Experienced (Old!), fair and direct with a good sense of humour How do you think others see you? Probably not any of the above Pet hate? Bad manners and cockyness Any bad habits? Showing boredom too easily If you weren’t in your present position, what job would you choose to do? Airline Pilot… short hours and long holidays Favourite TV programme? I can tell you my least favourite: any Soap or Reality show…although Gogglebox is growing on me What surprises you? How quickly time passes Favourite cuisine? A good pan of Scouse….or French of course
Who has been the greatest influence in your life? My Financial Advisor…the wife!!!
What’s the best kind of punishment… Death by Powerpoint… You have been offered a leading role in a film of your choice. What character would you like to play? Favourite film is Lawrence of Arabia, but I’m not sure I’m up for Peter O’Toole’s part in it You have been offered the opportunity to rule the world for a day. What would be the first change you would make? Make sure no-one is left to starve Is there anything about yourself that you would like to change? My weight Any hidden talents? If I have, I haven’t found them yet Any particular fetishes? “ Fetish. A form of sexual desire in which gratification is linked to an abnormal degree to a particular object, item of clothing, part of the body etc.” (Oxford dictionary)…I’m not answering this question!!
…and who deserves it? I leave that to the imagination Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time? I don’t think that far ahead. In 5 weeks’ time I’ll be on a golf course in Portugal… I don’t think further than that What’s your greatest fear? Stopping breathing! Who do you most admire? Anyone who builds businesses from scratch: Bill Gates; Stelios; Branson; Dyson… Favourite piece of kit? My Krups Bean to Cup Espresso Coffee maker What motto do you live by? Every problem has a solution Life is… …to be lived. It’s far better than the alternative! JUNE 2013 GET CONNECTED
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The British EMRAs 2014
THE BRITISH EMRAS
DESIGN FOR THE FUTURE On May 15th 2014 leading names from the British Electrical Industry, together with colleagues and business associates from the wider commercial community, gathered at Twickenham Stadium in London to celebrate the inaugural Gala Dinner and Presentations of the British Electrical Manufacturing & Retailing Awards (EMRAs).
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hose who were there had a great night, and said so: “An awesome place to be...” “The best food I’ve ever had at any big industry event...” “I cannot remember such a well organised and professional event in all my years in the electrical industry...” “A great atmosphere...” “Professional but not stuffy...” “I enjoyed it very much...” “We had a lot of fun....” “I’ve never seen so many happy people on the dance floor...”
THE EMRA SPIRIT
But getting the organisation, the venue, the food, the service, the entertainment and the atmosphere absolutely right on the night is no more than you would expect for a multi-billion pound industry celebrating its world class achievements in front of a national, multi-industry audience. So what really made the EMRAs 2014 such an important, fresh and exciting departure for our industry, and fired its sponsors, winners, supporters and participants with such enthusiasm? It was described by one winner as “the spirit of the occasion,” and is captured in the quotes that go a little deeper: “I did feel that the less inward-looking style of the EMRAs is the way to go in the future...” “It was good to sit down with familiar industry friends AND fresh faces from the other industries we all work with...” “Some serious ideas about the direction we need to take, but delivered in an informal and interesting way. Quite inspiring...” “I felt quite proud to be part of an industry that really is world class. We do need to 22
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remind ourselves that there’s a whole world of business out there, and we can match the best...” ”I learnt so much about companies I’ve been dealing with for years. It’s given me new ideas about how to improve the way we work...” “We were lucky enough to win an EMRA award, and I felt we’d achieved something important to tell the world about.” Certainly there were competitors and rivals, as well as colleagues and friends, sitting down together at Twickenham Stadium; but all understanding, on that night, the value of being united in the presentation of a great industry to the entire British commercial community. Not just giving ourselves a pat on the back, but opening up in a gathering of professionals from a range of UK enterprises to assert that the EMRAs means not only “the Best of British Electricals,” but “the Best of British.” The manufacturers, retailers, distributors and service providers who were there see very clearly that the more people who recognise our industry as open, innovative, dynamic, design-led, technologically exciting and full of great ideas and great products, the better it is for all of us. Our thanks again to the sponsors who had the vision to understand the concept, embrace the future and support the initiative.
SOME WORDS FROM OUR SPONSORS... “It was an honour to sponsor such an event. We all loved the great company, the entertainment… A night to remember, Thank you!” Kay Ainsworth, Training Development Manager at Headline Sponsor BEKO “Whirlpool is extremely proud to have sponsored the EMRAs and to support and recognise the contribution that the industry makes to the UK economy. There was a great buzz of excitement throughout the evening, and it was magnificent to celebrate the achievements within the industry of both manufacturers and retailers alike. I hope very much that this serves as a catalyst and inspires the industry to continue to deliver remarkable innovations in its products and services that put the customer at the centre of everything we do going forward.” Darren Harrison, Managing Director, Whirlpool UK “Domestic & General were delighted to sponsor the EMRAs. The meet & greet pitch side at Twickenham was a perfect introduction to a well-received event during which all my guests enjoyed thoroughly the food , the entertainment and the opportunity to network with retailers and manufacturers alike.”
“It was a privilege to be involved in the EMRA awards. It was a fantastically well organised event in an impressive location with great entertainment. It was also a great opportunity to pause for a moment and recognise those people in the industry who are doing great work.”
“Sponsoring the EMRA Awards and Gorenje receiving a Highly Commended was beyond expectation. A wonderful night with industry friends and supporters.”
Denver Hewlett, Chief Executive, Glen Dimplex Home Appliances
Jernej Hren, MD, Gorenje
“On behalf of everyone at Maytag, it has been our absolute pleasure to be part of the prestigious 2014 British Electrical Manufacturing & Retailing Awards. The Maytag brand has a heritage of high quality, durable design, and so it is always an honour to support the continued excellence and innovation within the electrical industry that these awards represent. The award ceremony was a great success, and we would like to send our many congratulations to each of the winners, nominees and organisers who participated in making the evening such a memorable occasion.”
“The best-dressed and most professional industry awards I have attended. The entertainment was fantastic and I would definitely sponsor this event again.”
Jeff Griffiths, National Account Director, Domestic & General
Simon Starkie, National Account Manager
Adrian Gillman. MD, Domestic Appliance Distributors
SPONSORS OF THE BRITISH EMRAS 2014 HEADLINE SPONSOR
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The British EMRAs 2014
The winners of EMRA 2014 Highly Commended and Trophy Awards LEADING DESIGN – AUDIO & IMAGING Sponsored by Get Connected
LEADING DESIGN – SMALL APPLIANCES Sponsored by Mud Hut Publishing Ltd
WINNER: Pure Jongo Multiroom Music System
WINNER: Panasonic Breakfast Set
Highly Commended: Sony SRS-X9 Wireless High Resolution Audio Speaker
Highly Commended: Kenwood Chef White Titanium KMC015; Groupe SEB – Tefal Optigrill GC701D40
LEADING DESIGN – TV and AV WINNER: LG 55-inch Curved OLED TV 55EA980W Highly Commended: Panasonic Smart VIERA TX-L65WT600; Samsung U8500 Curved UHD TV
WINNER: Freesat Highly Commended: LG; Sony
LEADING DESIGN – COOKING Sponsored by DAD
LEADING IN-STORE DISPLAY
WINNER: SMEG SFP 140 60cm Linea Pyrolytic Multifunction Oven
WINNER: Paul Davies Kitchens & Appliances
Highly Commended: AEG HK874400FB MaxiSense Induction Hob; Belling Fanned Gas Collection FSG 55TCF; Hoover Prodige 78-litre Oven; Neff Slide & Hide Oven B46C74N3GB
Highly Commended: Basil Knipe Electrics
LEADING DESIGN – COOLING Sponsored by Gorenje WINNER: Whirlpool WBA 33992 NFC IX Fridge Freezer Highly Commended: LG Door-in-Door American –style Fridge/Freezer GS9366AEAV; Panasonic NR-B53V2 – XB Fridge Freezer; SMEG FAB 30RFW Fridge Freezer LEADING DESIGN – DISHWASHING Sponsored by Whirlpool WINNER: Beko DSFN6839W 6-litre Dishwasher Highly Commended: Bosch SMS69L32GB 38dB Logixx 60cm Dishwasher; Fisher & Paykel DD60DCHX7 DishDrawer; Hoover 3D Dishwasher LEADING DESIGN – LAUNDRY Sponsored by BEKO WINNER: LG F1695RDH 12/8Kg Washer Dryer Highly Commended: Gorenje Colour Edition Washing Machine W8543; Samsung WW9000 Washing Machine; Siemens WM14Y590GB i-Dos iQ700 LEADING DESIGN – MAJOR DOMESTIC APPLIANCE COLLECTION Sponsored by Blomberg WINNER: Britannia Living Range Cooker Collection Highly Commended: Belling Sebastian Conran Collection; Panasonic Integrated Appliances Range LEADING DESIGN – FLOORCARE WINNER: AEG Ultra Power Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Highly Commended: Bosch BGS5ECOGB GS-50 Compact Eco Vac 24
TRAINING/SUPPORT FOR RETAILERS
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LEADING INDUCTION/TRAINING PROGRAMME Sponsored by Glen Dimplex Home Appliances WINNER: Barlows Highly Commended: Gillman’s MULTI-CHANNEL AWARD Sponsored by Maytag WINNER: Borshch Highly Commended: Sonic Direct RETAILER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Domestic & General WINNER: Gillman’s Highly Commended: Howards Electrical; Power Electrical SPECIAL AWARD FOR INNOVATION WINNER: LG Curved Screen OLED TV SPECIAL AWARD FOR SUSTAINABILITY Sponsored by REPIC WINNER: Electrolux SPECIAL EXPORT AWARD WINNER: Glen Dimplex Home Appliances EMRA PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR WINNER: Denver Hewlett
The British EMRAs 2014
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The British EMRAs 2014
There is a full collection of pictures of the EMRA Awards evening and the presentations available. Email emra@gcmagazine.co.uk to enquire. 26
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The proud winner of a 2014 EMRA Award, our 6 litre dishwasher is amazingly efficient. Especially when it comes to making sales.
• Wash a full family load using
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