Fact!

Do you see the majority of your products being sold in bricks & mortar stores or online?

I think a comprehensive multichannel strategy is really the only safe bet for any brand at present. Some of our products really do lend themselves well to physical demonstration, making them a great product for independents and multiple electrical retailers. However, online continues to grow and be a crucially important part of our strategy. It’s important to be wherever your competitors are and, more importantly, where the consumers are, so for us that means having a presence in both.

What new launches can we look forward to from Laica and Aqua Optima?

We have just launched the Aqua Optima Perfect Pour collection which takes water filter jugs to the next level – easier to use and fill and unlike many utilitarian jugs they look great on the table too. The collection also includes a dispenser with dual filters that fits into the fridge.

We will be launching a new Aqua Optima coffee machine in 2023 as part of the range extension for the Aurora family, and under the LAICA brand we are aiming to introduce some of our vac-pack and storage products to the UK market, that were well received at the Exclusively Show in 2022. In addition, we will be launching LAICA breakfast sets including a unique digital filter kettle – which is like nothing else on the market – with a matching toaster. experience of cooking, baking and beverage making. However, as lockdowns eased and the cost of living increased through 2022 the kitchenware sector has suffered like many other sectors. But we are still seeing that consumers are looking for products that make their lives easier and that are economical and environmentally friendly.

What challenges is the sector facing?