Ier etail march 2014 issuu

IRISH ELECTRICAL REVIEW

ier ·Retail

February/march 2014

for independent retailers, multiples and buyer groups

Company Profile: WHIRLPOOL Latest GfK Irish Market Update What’s New in Refrigeration

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news

Philips to Transfer 30% stake in TP Vision to TPV

Nespresso Launches Inissia Coffee Machines in Eight Colours

Royal Philips has signed a term sheet to transfer its remaining 30% stake in TP Vision, the television joint venture with TPV Technology, to a fully-owned subsidiary of TPV. The signing of definitive agreements is expected to take place in the first quarter of 2014, with completion expected in the second half of 2014, subject to certain regulatory and TPV shareholder approvals. After completion, TPV will fully own TP Vision, which will enable further integration with TPV’s TV business.

Nespresso’s new Inissia coffee machines, in partnership with Krups and Magimix, will be available from March 2014 in eight colours: White, Ruby Red, Orange, and a limited edition Blue Sky from Krups, and Black, Vanilla Cream, Grey, and a limited edition Summer Sun from Magimix (SRP €99).

“With this agreement, we are creating the right set-up for the business to be successful in the extremely dynamic and competitive TV market,” said Frans van Houten, Philips’ Chief Executive. “By giving TPV full control, they can drive synergies and act in a faster and more flexible way to changes in the market. Together with TPV, we remain committed to making the TV business a success, with a range of innovative Philips-branded TVs.”

Features include a 25-second pre-heat time for coffee, A energy rating, two programmable buttons for espresso and lungo preparation, and automatic power off after nine minutes of inactivity (changeable to 30 minutes).

Weighing 2.4kg, the Inissia is the lightest in the Nespresso range and has a 0.7-litre water tank and folding drip tray for Macchiato preparation.

An Inissia bundle will also include the new Aeroccino3.

The brand license agreement between Philips and TP Vision will remain in place, with an annual royalty of 2.2% of sales payable by TP Vision to Philips. The minimum annual royalty has been reduced from €50 million to €40 million.

Expert Celebrations in 2014 Three Expert Ireland stores reach milestones in 2014: Joyce’s of Wexford are 70 years in business this year, Briscoe’s of Drogheda make the golden 50, and Ganly’s of Athlone celebrate 25 years in business.

Berney Crossan R.I.P. Berney Crossan who ran an electrical retail and wholesale business on Main Street, Longford, for many years and was a great businessman and a true friend to the people of Longford.

Nespresso limited edition Inissia coffee machines in Blue Sky (Krups) and Summer Sun (Magimix).

He was a staunch Leitrim man and fiercely passionate about his adopted Clonguish.

He loved the GAA and travelled the country and indeed even to America to support his native county.

The crowning glory was, of course, when they won the Connacht Championship in the 1990s.

He had a great head for business and was one of the first in Ireland to sell video cameras. He also brought cable TV to the town. This is a great photo of him in his store promoting new video players, when they were launched in the late 1980s.

The business will live on through his family but there is no doubt that a little of the soul of Main Street left us when Berney crossed over.

As well as being renowned for his business head, Berney was also highly regarded for his involvement in the community in which he lived.

Over the years he was very much to the fore and involved with Longford Lions Club, Longford Hospice and Longford Chamber of Commerce, as well as numerous GAA associations. He is a man who has left an indelible mark for the better on the town and the electrical industry.

Originally from Ardrum, Ballinamore, his passing is deeply regretted by his loving family and friends in the trade.

“Ar Deis De go Raimbh a Anam.”

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Waterford-born Brema Drohan, Managing Director UK & Ireland, Nespresso, launches the Inissia in London.

Mark Briscoe Chairman Expert Ireland, Ian Parsons National Accounts Manager DeLonghi, Tony Murphy Expert Ireland and James Franks DeLonghi.

ier ·Retail Publishing Director: Patrick J. Codyre Sales & Marketing Manager: Avril Smith 5 Main St, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. News and Features Editor: Neil Steedman Tel: +353 (1) 283 6755 Printer: Swift Print Solutions Fax: +353 (1) 283 6784 ©2014 All editorial contents and all E-mail: mail@ier.ie advertisement artwork prepared by the publisher. is published by: Sky Publishing Ltd.

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news

Electrical Goods in December Up 6% in Volume, Down 1% in Value The overall volume of retail sales (i.e. excluding price effects) in December 2013 increased by 0.6% when compared with November 2013 and there was an increase of 3.0% in the annual figure, according to the Central Statistics Office _ and Retail Ireland expects consumer spending to grow by over 1% this year.

If Motor Trades are excluded there was an increase of 1.4% in the volume of retail sales in December 2013 when compared with November 2013 and there was an increase of 3.0% in the annual figure.

There was an increase of 0.5% in the value of retail sales in December 2013 when compared with November 2013 and there was an annual increase of 1.1% when compared with December 2012. If Motor Trades are excluded, there was a monthly increase of 0.9% in the value of retail sales and an annual increase of 0.9%.

For Electrical Goods the volume index of 156.6 showed a monthly increase of 0.4% and an annual increase of 6.2%, but the value index of 78.1 meant a 0.1% monthly increase and -0.9% annual decrease.

Miele Ireland Collaborates with Neven Maguire Cookery School Miele Ireland has announced that Miele is the cooking appliance of choice for the recently opened Neven Maguire Cookery School.

Pat McGrath, Chief Executive of Miele Ireland, said: “We are delighted to be the appliance provider for Neven Maguire’s Cookery School. Neven is renowned for innovative cuisine and using only the finest produce in his restaurant and cookery school.

We feel this ethos of quality is reflected in choosing Miele appliances, which are designed to perform to the highest standard.

Using the range of cooking features on the Miele appliances will enhance the cooking experience for the students of the school.”

Neven Maguire said: “I am delighted to be using Miele in my cookery school. The products are a reliable, quick, and safe way of cooking with induction. I have used

“There was much speculation in December about how retailers performed over Christmas. After all the speculation, this data gives us a fuller picture. However, Retail Ireland would be concerned that the numbers do not properly capture online sales, which are growing all the time. It is vital that steps are taken to ensure the online spend of Irish consumers is properly recorded, so that retailers here can plan for the future.

“The conditions for growth in sales in 2014 are there. Retail Ireland expects consumer spending to grow by over 1% this year _ consumer sentiment is high and there are nearly 60,000 new jobs in the economy compared with 2012.”

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Miele for many years at home and on my TV programmes. The products are consistent and I am very happy with every element.”

Neven’s school provides an opportunity for budding chefs and professional cooks to hone their culinary skills with one of Ireland’s most talented contemporary chefs in an innovative professional environment using Miele cooking appliances.

Panasonic Introduces Five New HD Camcorders Panasonic has introduced five new highimage quality full-HD camcorders. Tailored to suit different users, the HC-W850, HC-V750, HC-V550, HC-V250 and HC-V130 all offer superior HD image quality, portability and ease of use, with SRPs ranging from €279.99 (V130) up to €839.99 (W850).

Retail Ireland Stephen Lynam, Director of Retail Ireland, the IBEC group representing the retail sector, said: “There was a welcome increase in sales in supermarkets, fuel stations and clothes stores. There was also a large increase of 12.7% in the sales of furniture and lighting, perhaps reflecting pent up demand for home improvements.

However, there was a fall in sales in department stores, pharmacies, hardware outlets, book stores and electrical shops.

Pat McGrath, Chief Executive, Miele Ireland, with chef Neven Maguire.

Panasonic HC-W850 Full-HD camcorder with Twin Camera

HC-W850 with Twin Camera The flagship HC-W850 has a new Twin Camera function that enables users to capture two scenes at once, revolutionising the creative filming opportunities.

Made possible by the rotatable sub camera on the side of the LCD screen, users can shoot using this sub camera while also shooting with the main camera at the same time. The video recorded by the sub camera appears in a small window on the screen.

W850 and V750 The top of the range W850 and V750 feature an all-new lens, sensor and engine that combine for powerful zooming, high sensitivity and great image quality.

The engine can process at about 1.5 times faster than before for high-speed processing

of the enhanced MOS sensor signals with 6.03 effective megapixels for delivering sharp video images with high resolution. For the first time in a consumer video camera, a 4-drive lens system is incorporated to enable a 20x optical zoom within a compact body size.

HC-V550 and HC-V250 The slim HC-V550 and HC-V250 both have a long 50x Optical zoom and 90x Intelligent zoom, but differ by their image stabilisation system _ the V250 employs Panasonic’s Power O.I.S (Optical Image Sabiliser) for stable video images when zooming or walking, while the V550 goes one step further to feature the Advanced Level Shot Function and 5-Axis Hybrid O.I.S+.

The W850, V750, V550 and V250 all include a new Baby Monitor feature, built-in wi-fi and one-touch connection by NFC (Near Field Connection).

HC-V130 The entry level HC-V130 is equipped with a 38x Optical Zoom and a 75x Intelligent Zoom, as well as built-in Creative Control modes of Miniature Effect, 8mm Movie, Silent Movie, and Time Lapse Recording.

Remote Pan Tilt Cradle The new additions can utilise the optional new Remote Pan Tilt Cradle that, when connected to a camcorder, detects a moving subject and automatically tracks the subject within a horizontal movement range of 180° and vertical range of 15°. The cradle will be sold as a bundle with the V550 and available to purchase separately for all models.

ier ·Retail

news

Late News As ier-Retail went to press, we learnt that changes are imminent at Sony Ireland.

The company recently entered a 30-day negotiation period with staff and was therefore unable to make a comment.

Also believed to be imminent was an

announcement from the Department of the Environment on proposed legislation to implement the EU’s revised WEEE Directive – particularly the White Goods Association request that a €5.00 visible fee be reintroduced on major domestic appliances.

IFA: gfu and Messe Berlin Continue Partnership to 2018 agreement took place in the gallery of the Berlin city hall between Berlin’s Governing Mayor Klaus Wowereit; the Senator for Economics, Cornelia Yzer; Hans-Joachim Kamp, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of gfu; and Dr Christian Göke, Chief Executive of Messe Berlin.

The organiser of IFA, gfu, has extended its collaboration with Messe Berlin by a further five years to 2018. The symbolic signing of this

IFA 2013 attracted some 1,500 exhibitors and 240,000 visitors, including more than 142,000 trade visitors (+1.4%), 46,000 of whom came from abroad (+2.2%).

IFA 2014 will be taking place from 5th _ 10th September 2014 on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds.

NordMende White Goods Up 35% in 2013 The KAL Group’s NordMende own-brand continues to grow in strength for the group. Managing Director Richard Broderick told ierRetail: “In 2013 NordMende white goods sales were up 35% on 2012 _ which had also been well up on the previous year.

“It has been a tough start to the year for the trade, but we are very pleased with our results _ we have had some good breaks and are up on last year. The KAL Group will also be introducing several new initiatives throughout the year.”

Crossed Wires ....hears that one well-known sales representative couldn’t figure out why he had to weave in and around bollards while driving up Arklow’s Main Street _ until he was informed by a retailer about the current experimental one-way system down the street.

New Infiny Press Juicer from

The new Infiny Press Revolution (TM) juicer’s rotating screw mechanism presses fruits, vegetables and even herbs delicately so preserving as much flavour and vitamin goodness as possible.

• • • • •

High Quality Design Compact size and shape Whisper quiet action (70.2 db(A) No waste chamber needed Removable parts are dishwasher safe

The machine comes with two separate Orange and Pink filters; • Orange for Juices and Smoothies • Pink for Coulis and Sauces

SALES Contact: John Cullen Tel: 01- 401 9788 Fax: 01- 401 9726 Mobile: 087-2513236 E: johncullen@groupeseb.ie

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Contact: Donal O’Sullivan Tel: 01- 401 9788 Fax 01- 401 9726 Mobile: 087-2513235 E: donalosullivan@groupeseb.ie

* Source CTCPA 2012, tests performed with 1kg of grapes for the juice, oranges for the vitamin C and raspberries for the antioxidants (ORAC test), comparing the results obtained with a Moulinex JU650 juicer

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news

Vax Launches World’s Lightest Compact Multi-Cyclonic Upright Vax has launched the Air3 Compact, officially the lightest compact multi-cyclonic upright vacuum cleaner in the world. Weighing just 4kg, the Air3 Compact has a low-profile, compact floorhead with patented Air Motion technology, so it is easy to manoeuvre under and around furniture.

Hard Floor Cleaners The Vax H86DVA Dust & Vac Corded Hard Floor Cleaner cleans all types of sealed hard flooring and has a washable Microfibre Grab Pad. Its floor head features flexible edges, so it is easy to clean right into corners and up skirting boards. It is also lightweight, so it can be lifted and carried around with ease.

The Vax H86DVB Dust & Vac cordless hard floor cleaner weighs only 1.7kg is ideal for cleaning stairs. The run time is eight minutes, the flexible floor head gets right into corners, and the Microfibre Grab Pad captures dust left behind.

Vax Air3 Compact _ smaller and lighter than a standard-sized Air upright.

Trevor Murray, General Manager (Ireland), told ier-Retail: “The Air3 Compact is easy to use and ergonomic too, as you can switch off the brushbar for cleaning hard floors at the touch of a button and its telescopic handle means it suits everyone, short or tall.

“Vax has also launched a new range of pressure washers, as well as new cordless and corded hard floor cleaners.”

Pressure Washers Vax’s new range of pressure washers deliver up to 40 times the cleaning power of a garden hose spray attachment, so you can blast away stuck-on muck and mud in seconds, and all Vax pressure washers feature industrial-grade aluminium pumps.

There are four models, starting with the compact VPW1 Powerwash 1700, which is ideal for light tasks and smaller spaces, ranging up to the high performance VPW4 Powerwash 2500, a heavy duty washer with an extra long 10m cable.

All four models are lightweight, wheel-mounted and designed for easy transportation. They each come with a lance and jet nozzle to dislodge stubborn dirt from all surfaces, plus a higher pressure turbo nozzle to blast away embedded dirt from high traffic areas.

The hand gun has an easy squeeze trigger and a built-in safety lock for easy on/off trigger release. A selection of add-on accessories is also available including a Car Kit and Patio Kit, which both feature specialist brushes designed to achieve the best finish on each particular surface.

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Panasonic Signs Official Worldwide Olympic Partnership Agreement Panasonic Corporation signed an agreement in Sochi, Russia, with the International Olympic Committee to renew its Official Worldwide Olympic Partnership agreement for a further eight years through to the 2024 Olympic Games.

Panasonic will provide its technologies and products to support the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, and the summer and winter Olympic Games to be held in 2022 and 2024. Panasonic is the first Official Worldwide Partner to have signed the partnership agreement for the period from 2021 to 2024.

As the sponsor in the Audio-Visual Equipment category, Panasonic provides the Olympic Games with TVs, audio-visual equipment for broadcast and professional use, AV storage media, car navigation and related on-board entertainment systems equipment, and video surveillance equipment.

“Panasonic has contributed to the Olympic Movement for over 25 years. Today, we are proud to announce our commitment to support the Olympic Movement for further eight years through to 2024,” said Kazuhiro Tsuga, President of Panasonic Corporation.

“Through our cutting-edge technologies and products, our staff and operations services, we will continue to support the Olympic Games, the greatest sporting event in the world.”

Improvement in Housing Market May Help White Goods Recover Signs that the housing market has finally bottomed out and that house starts are increasing may help the white goods market, which declined by around 4% last year, to recover.

According to the Irish Banking Federation, 18,520 mortgage approvals were given during 2013, 4.1% up on 2012, with 17,058 being for house purchase, an increase of 6.1% over the previous year. In addition, the latest IBF Housing Market Monitor shows increased activity in housing market nationally, but with growing concerns for supply issues in Dublin.

The Q4 2013 IBF Housing Market Monitor shows the following picture in 2013 as a whole, compared to 2012: •

7% increase in the number of properties listed for sale

•

10% increase in the number of housing market transactions

•

6.1% increase in the level of mortgage approvals, with a decline of 5% in the level of drawdowns.

Ciaran Coleman, Marketing and Key Accounts Manager for the Electrolux Group, told ier-Retail: “There are hopeful signs that the housing market has bottomed out and that, depending on a number of factors, the white goods sector will see flat to single-digit growth in 2014.

“New house builds are increasing slowly, but the key question is not the number of new houses or even overall mortgage approvals _ including for investment properties _ but rather the number of mortgage approvals for home owners.”

Samsung Launches Galaxy S5 in Four Colours Samsung’s new Galaxy S5 mobile, launching in Ireland on 11th April, comes in Electric Blue, Shimmery White, Charcoal Black, and Copper Gold.

It is IP67 dust and water resistant, comes with a 16MP camera, the world’s fastest auto focus on a smartphone, a finger scanner and biometric screen, built-in Heart Rate Monitor, and ultra power saving mode to minimise battery consumption.

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PLAYFUL COLOURS. UNIQUE PLEASURE.

€50

NESPRESSO GIFT CARD

Discover Inissia, the latest machine from Nespresso.

A small, colourful and simply designed machine always delivering the Nespresso promise; of the perfect coffee, cup after cup.

Inissia allows a new, younger consumer to indulge their passion for quality coffee.

The Nespresso Promotion Commences on 20th March and runs to 30th June 2014.

Your customers can claim a €50 Nespresso Gift Card when they purchase any Nespresso machine.

Available in a range of six permanent colours and two Limited Editions from 3rd March.

nespresso.com

Contact your Nespresso Territory Manager to discover more, freephone 1800 812 660

company profile

Whirlpool Makes €250,000 Investment in Ireland Whirlpool Ireland has appointed food writer and TV chef Catherine Fulvio as its new Brand Ambassador and Lisa Galvin as a full-time in-store trainer. Both appointments are part of a €250,000 investment that Whirlpool is making in Ireland in 2014.

Fergus Johnston, Managing Director of Whirlpool Ireland, told ier-Retail: “Esther Berrozpe, who was appointed President of Whirlpool Europe, Middle East and Africa on 1st May 2013, has helped to lead a culture change within the company and, by developing our R&D and manufacturing facilities, has given us the ‘ammunition’ with which to do even better business – and Whirlpool Ireland is a leader in introducing many innovations within Europe.

“Catherine Fulvio’s appointment as our Brand Ambassador is one of these and she will be supporting Whirlpool in media launches and a variety of events, as well as providing in-store cooking demonstrations in new working kitchen displays, in which we are investing heavily – the most recently installed being in Dwyers Electrical Expert in Cork.

Fergus Johnston, Managing Director, Whirlpool Ireland.

Whirlpool Ireland and Catherine Fulvio Cooking Collaboration “Whirlpool Ireland is embarking on a very exciting partnership for 2014 and 2015,” Fergus told ier-Retail. “Starting on 1st March 2014, Catherine Fulvio, the award-winning food writer, TV chef and proprietor of Ballyknocken House and Cookery School, is taking on the role of Brand Ambassador for Whirlpool cooking appliances.

Whirlpool’s new Dragon WSX53782 FC X side-by-side fridge-freezer

“Catherine has recently installed Whirlpool appliances in her cookery school and is extremely impressed with their innovative functions, design and capabilities and is very enthusiastic and confident to be advocating Whirlpool as a preferred brand of choice in cooking appliances.

“This year we will be promoting at the Ideal Homes Show, Bloom, Brown’s Barn, and the National Ploughing Championships, to name a few.

“Lisa Galvin, our newly appointed dedicated full-time in-store trainer, has 10 years’ retail experience with Power City, and will be supporting retailers in selling through and increasing their average sale price.

“I am also pleased to announce that our planned move of our service operations into the Dublin premises will be effective from 1st March 2014 – and a further announcement can be expected soon!

Best-in-Class Products “Whirlpool has been investing heavily in Europe in every product area and, as a result, we continue to introduce best-in-class appliances across the board and are able to ‘cascade’ high-tech features such as our 6th Sense technology down into our mid-market product ranges.

“In washing, for example, we have the 6th Sense Infinite Care washing machine and Colour 15 technology, chrome doors and brushless (induction) motors.

“In drying we already offer a best-in-care heat pump dryer and in April we will launch an Infinite Care dryer with the new drum and which will be a perfect match for the Infinite Care washer.

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“Also in April, in dishwashing we will be launching our new best-in-class Power Dry dishwasher, incorporating new technology that provides completely dry dishes in one hour for a high programme.

“In cooling and freezing our focus is on food preservation and bringing new products to the market, including our 6th Sense Fresh Control fridge-freezer.

“We are giving a lot of focus to cooking, where we lead in induction cooking, including our firstin-Ireland 6th Sense induction oven. A new entrylevel design range includes an iXelium-coated oven and microwave. Also in microwave ovens we will be focusing on creating awareness, within the trade and consumers, of just what microwaves can do, for example our new Jet Cuisine microwave.”

Food writer and TV chef Catherine Fulvio is Whirlpool Ireland’s new Brand Ambassador.

Retailers and their customers can follow Catherine for her latest tips on twitter (@ cfulvio), Facebook (Catherine Fulvio) or on her website www.catherinefulvio.com or visit www. ballyknocken.com

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Contact: Derek Flett Telephone: +353 86 256 9520 E-mail: derekflett@eaaccessories.com

interview

Aidan Candon, Chief Executive, Euronics Ireland Euronics International, Europe’s largest electrical retail buying group with a €20 billion turnover, now operates in 30 countries with more than 11,000 stores reaching 600 million consumers _ while Euronics Ireland celebrates its 10th year in 2014 with 38 members and 49 stores having a combined turnover around €70 million.

Aidan Candon, Chief Executive, and Philip Martin, National Retail Manager, Euronics Ireland.

In 2003 seven independent retailers formed the Electrovalue buying group, which joined Euronics the following year and was granted full membership as Euronics Ireland in 2006. The group grew steadily and now has 38 members owning 49 stores, the newest being O’Flaherty Electric’s third store at Tuam Road, Galway. They are spread nationwide – from Callaghan’s Electrical in Burt, Co Donegal, to Drinagh Hardware & Electrical in Skibbereen, Co Cork.

opening new stores this year. We do not have any plans to open our own Euronics Ireland shops – although one can never say never!

“As a buying and marketing group we keep things simple, offering the best brands at unbeatable prices with personalised service, and following the basic principles of one man one vote, the same benefits for all members irrespective of turnover – with rebates being

Mullally Electrical, Main Street, Roscrea, Co Tipperary.

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no targets set for members.

“This year we will be developing our online matrix system, which provides members with 24/7 access to their turnover, rebates, agreements, etc., and cost benefit analyses are provided annually to help maximise benefits for members.

“We are also increasing central stocks of brown, white and IT goods, while in March we

“We have implemented a lot of changes over the past 12 months, said Aidan Candon, Chief Executive. “In March 2013 we moved to new premises at Unit 4H, Six Cross Roads Business Park, Waterford, T: 051 372 135, E: enquiries@euronics.ie, we added administration staff, and in December Philip Martin joined us as National Retail Manager.

He is visiting all 49 stores and helping them to improve branding/signage, product displays, the sales mix, and average selling prices, as well as improving social media campaigns – and Philip’s activities can be tracked on the Euronics.ie Facebook page!

“While trading has been difficult, independent retailers have weathered the storm and some are now looking for new opportunities, so we expect to see members

discussed, agreed and transparent, and with

are introducing a new strategy for our ownbrand Blomberg range, which we introduced to the Irish market in 2012. We have access to Blomberg stocks in the UK and can add 30 or more products to the range.

“A big investment is being made this year in our website, www.euronics.ie, including the addition of an e-commerce site that members can use to attract younger shoppers, particularly for tablets and other IT products.

“Also launching in April/May will be our Retail Academy led by consultant Peter Nolan – so there is a lot happening in Euronics Ireland Blomberg 4-foor French-style fridge-freezer.

Euronics Ireland’s head office in Six Cross Roads Business Park, Waterford.

in 2014 too!”

M.D. O’Shea & Sons, Link Road, Ballincollig. Co Cork.

ier ·Retail

GfK Irish Market Update

GfK: “Premium Products Play Their Part” Summarising GfK’s update on the Irish market for last year’s fourth quarter, Colm Mallon, Territory Manager, Ireland, said: “Q4 brought a mixed bag of performances in terms of growth across the various product categories but the consistent message is that consumers will invest in a product if it offers features better than they currently have.

“TV volumes declined as expected, given the comparison to switchover sales for Q4 2012, but there was a marginal increase in value as sales shifted to larger, better spec’d screens. MDA was relatively flat but showed growth in the larger capacity washing machines. SDA did well overall, and was boosted by very strong growth in Hot Beverage Makers. Tablets had strong volume growth but value actually declined compared to Q4 2012 due to the increased availability of more brands and the move to smaller screen sizes, which lowered average prices. Photo suffered large double-digit declines, but again the sales of entry-level changeable lens cameras suggest consumers are willing to purchase devices that offer improved features over their current equipment.”

Cameras As Q4 2012 enjoyed growth for the majority of digital cameras segments, we expected to see a tough end of year in 2013. Standard point and shoot cameras (fixed lens with less than 10x optical zoom) have seen the heaviest declines for some time now and the last quarter wasn’t an exception with -49% in value compared to Q4 2012.

heights during the last three months with +193% value growth compared to October – December 2012.

IT The IT retail market declined year on year in volume and value at a rate of 0.8% and 19.7% respectively in Q4 2013. The evolution of the Media Tablet market was largely responsible for the value decline.

of quad HD has instilled value into the Monitors market, allowing it to grow by 13.1% in value over the same period.

We expect mobility to be the key driver for the computing markets throughout 2014, with Media Tablets, Hybrids and Ultrathins continuing growth. However, we expect the traditional computing form factors to continue to suffer as a result.

Consumer Electronics The Consumer Electronics market showed an overall year on year value deficit of 12% this month. December saw most CE product groups suffer substantial declines: Set-Top Boxes and Portable Media Players were among the worst falling 67% and 52% respectively.

The changeable lens segment is still significantly down, in value terms, against the same period in 2012 but has performed better than the fixed lens segment. SLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) and CSC (Compact System Cameras) declined by respectively -32% and -26% in value compared to Q4 2012.

However it is worth pointing out that the entry levels under €400 for SLR and under €300 for CSC continue to grow. This suggests that consumers are still willing to invest in features that are better than their existing devices and as a consequence the number of changeable lens cameras users keeps growing.

Looking at action cameras, as expected they enjoyed high volume and value growth throughout the year and even reached new

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The Mobile and Desk Computing markets both faced a decline this Christmas as the Media Tablet boom has eroded the seasonality of traditional desktops and notebooks. This Christmas saw more Media Tablet sales compared to last Christmas, as the volume grew by 21.6% in December.

The TV market however, in contrast to the negative growth rates we saw over the course of 2013, showed some growth for the first time in over a year this month, albeit 1%.

With TV excluded the Total CE market would have suffered a far less favourable 35% value deficit.

However, the value of the Media Tablet market has been affected by price erosion and a trend towards smaller screen sizes over the past 12 months, leaving the market down 5.5% in value this December.

The Monitors market declined in volume by 3.1% when comparing December on December. However, the growing popularity

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GfK Irish Market Update

Growth in TV is being driven by the larger screen size segments with Superlarge (33”42”) and Jumbo (43”+) growing 15.6% and 15.7% in value. The growth in these segments is partly due to the spread of Smart TV, a segment directed more at larger TVs, which increased its share by 16% from last December, taking the Smart TV to account for over half of the Total TV market value this December.

3D TV has also shown slight growth, gaining 1.2% value in December year on year. Tiny (up to 19”) and Medium (20”-25”) screen size segments are still suffering heavy declines of 50.5% and 42.6% in value respectively, emphasising the shift in sales towards larger screen sizes.

In addition to TV, some of the smaller markets within CE continue to show promise.

Connected Audio was among the few CE products showing annual growth, up 6.7% in value year on year, even given the 40.5% growth we saw in December last year.

Smartphones are continuing to move down the price points due to promotions within the prepay market with over 35% of smartphones falling in the €0-50 price bracket in December 13. This has seen an increase in share from December 12 when approximately 25% of prepay smartphones fell into this price bracket.

Touch only continues to be the favoured form factor for Smartphones: ~100% of Smartphones sold are using this form factor.

3x4 Key handsets still contributed to 20% of prepay market sales in December as approximately 20% of prepay sales were Mobilephones.

Within the cooling market, traditional bottom mounted fridge-freezers have risen by 6%.

Small Domestic Appliances Given the tough economic times, 2013 proved to be a successful year for the Small Domestic Appliances market. Despite volume sales being relatively flat, value sales reported an uplift of over 5% on 2012. The overall small appliances sector made gains of €4.6 million, ending 2013 at €94.6 million, with key segments small kitchen appliances and vacuum cleaners contributing to the year-end performance.

White Goods The White Goods market saw sales stabilise as 2013 drew to a close. Value sales versus last year were flat with the market worth €187 million, and volume sales recorded a 1.5% decline over the last 12 months.

Smartphones December 2013 saw an uplift of ~1.5% year on year for the overall Irish Smart-Mobile phone market.

The prepay sector has performed well and seems to be driving this increase over the festive period with prepay contributing to just under 75% of all handsets sold in December 2013. This is very similar to the share prepay had within the market in December 2012, however Smartphones held over 80% in December 2013, up from approximately 70% in December 2012.

Smartphones continue to see strong growth within the market (+18% year on year in Dec 13) and ~70% of all smartphones sold in December 2013 were prepay handsets.

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Freestanding appliances remain the most popular segment of the market accounting for just below three quarters of all volume sales; however sales have dipped by 3% year on year. The built-in sector has seen slight recovery in 2013 with volumes up by 2%. Within this market segment builtin dishwashers have been driving growth, increasing by 7%.

The key replacement markets, washing machines and cooling, achieved modest growth in 2013 of 3% and 1% respectively and combined they account for almost half of all volume sales. Larger drum sizes for washing machines continue to prove popular with just over two thirds of sales being generated by 7kg+ products. In the past year the even larger load sizes of 8kg and above have shown strong growth, boosting their share to just below 40% of total sales.

Small kitchen gadgets such as food preparation and hot beverage makers performed best, adding an additional €3.6 million, but also the ‘must have’ categories such as kettles and toasters had a positive impact on the overall SDA value growth reported for 2013.

Personal care proved less of a draw for consumers with most categories, apart from hair dryers, dragging the overall total down.

The increase in average selling price seen within a number of markets has played a major factor to the 2013 value end result. Hot beverage makers is one such product group, more specifically the premium full automatic espresso coffee makers, which saw prices rise to around €588, a 21% rise on 2012.

2014 is set to be yet another challenging year, although the surge in average selling prices is expected to continue as consumers trade up to more premium products, their considerably longer replacement cycles will most likely slow market value growth down in the future.

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refrigeration

2014 is European Year Against Food Waste As part of the European Parliament’s aim to halve food waste by 2025, this year has been pronounced as ‘European Year Against Food Waste’. Enrica Monticelli, Open Innovation Leader at Whirlpool R&D, who received in 2012 received the award ‘Le Tecnovisionarie’ in the ‘Women Innovation’ section, specifically designed for women committed in innovation within food and nutrition fields, highlights how a combination of a sense of responsibility and innovative technology can combat food waste through appliances that preserve food’s best qualities longer.

Food waste is one of the most scandalous paradoxes of our time, affecting us even as we face the need to increase food production by 70% to feed a world with a projected population of nine billion by 2050. According to a report by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, more than a third of all the food produced worldwide ends up wasted. In fact, so much is wasted that if we could collect all the food that is spoiled and discarded throughout the course of a year, we could feed half of the current world population.

The European Parliament has decided to do something about this, in keeping with the European awareness campaign ‘A Year Against Waste’ promoted by Last Minute Market and supported by Whirlpool R&D. That’s why, in January 2012, Parliament passed a resolution to decrease food waste by 50% within 2025 and officially dubbed 2014 the ‘European Year Against Food Waste’.

According to estimates from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for the Environment, food waste in Europe hovers at around 180kg per capita every year (and 89 billion tonnes globally), of which 42% occurs within the home. Topping the list of the countries with the most domestic waste is the UK, followed by Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Poland and the Netherlands.

In industrialised countries, at least 60% of domestic waste could be avoided, through enlightened, responsible living.

From the under-counter fridge to the integrated fridge-freezer, Miele appliances use low electricity consumption with energy efficiency classes A+ and A++.

For optimum freshness and gentle storage, depending on models, the PerfectFresh compartment e n s u r e s temperature close to 0°C and adjustable humidity.

Food stays fresh for up to three times longer than in a conventional refrigerator.

With humidity levels up to 90% and Miele K37272iD fridge-freezer temperatures between 0°C and 3°C, vegetables and fruits retain their colours, flavour and vitamins.

Most Miele fridges feature the Dynacool fan in the rear panel, which guarantees uniform temperatures in the refrigerator compartment, allowing food and drinks to be chilled up to 50% faster than in a conventional refrigerator.

Miele Refrigerators Offer PerfectFresh, Dynacool and Low Energy Consumption

Miele refrigeration appliances also rely on the proven and popular comfort features, including the No-Frost technology in the freezer compartment, which relieves the arduous task of having to defrost the unit.

When choosing a new refrigeration appliance, today’s consumers want it to save energy, offer plenty of space, and keep food fresh.

Miele offers all of these in freestanding and built-in refrigeration appliances.

Finally the convenient dishwasher-proof ComfortClean door racks are able to withstand 125 cycles in a dishwasher at the recommended temperature of 55°C.

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A+ Energy Refrigeration from Beko B e k o expanded its refrigeration range last year with three new consumerf r i e n d l y products.

The three new models complement B e k o ’ s existing refrigeration offering and all carry the energy efficient A+ rating.

Shane Kelly, Head of Marketing at Beko Ireland, said: Beko BL77 fully integrated A+ tall larder fridge “The new products are testament to our understanding of the Irish consumer and what he/she needs in their kitchen. As integrated appliances, the Tall Larder Fridge and Tall Frost-Free Freezer address the market’s growing interest in built-in kitchens, which is indicative of how consumers are upgrading their property rather than moving home.

“The full Beko refrigeration range reflects the importance of the fridge and freezer to Irish households, and our ability to translate innovative technology into smart solutions for today’s consumer.”

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BL77 This Tall Larder Fridge is fully integrated and backed with a full two-year parts and labour warranty. It uses Cold Wall evaporator technology and has an automatic defrost system.

Features include: •

Frost Free _ no need to manually defrost the freezer.

•

Ice bank tray for making and storing ice cubes.

•

Heavy-duty metal hinges ensuring the door is not left ajar.

•

High temperature warning light visible alert _ in case the freezer temperature starts to rise.

•

Fast Freeze setting quickly freezes fresh food to preserve the taste and nutrients.

Features include: •

Chrome wire wine rack also ideal for 2-litre soft drink bottles.

•

Antibacterial door seals preventing bacteria from forming and entering the fridge.

•

Heavy-duty metal hinges ensuring the door is not left ajar.

•

Adjustable glass shelves giving flexibility to change shelf height.

•

Reversible door giving flexibility to place the appliance anywhere in the kitchen.

•

Full-width commodity racks ideal for storing small jars and condiments.

•

Adjustable thermostat allows the temperature to be adjusted depending on storage needs.

•

Active Dual Cooling _ two separate fans and evaporators help to maintain optimal humidity and freshness, ensuring no transfer of odours between the fridge and freezer.

•

Active Fresh Blue Light keeps fruit and vegetables fresher for longer, meaning less waste.

•

Advanced Electronic Touch Control LED display control is accessible without ever having to open the doors, saving time and energy.

•

Door open alarm that sounds if the door is accidentally left ajar.

•

Clear freezer fronts enabling you to easily identify food stored in the freezer.

•

Antibacterial Door Seals prevent bacteria from forming and entering the fridge.

•

Reversible door giving flexibility to place the appliance anywhere in the kitchen.

•

•

Adjustable thermostat allows the temperature to be adjusted depending on storage needs.

Air Flow Cooling _ multiple air vents in the fridge and freezer maintain an even temperature on every shelf level and rapidly restore the temperature after the door has been opened.

•

•

Freezer Guard making it ideal for locating the appliance anywhere in the home _ this technology ensures that food stays frozen, even when the outside temperature drops as low as -15ºC.

Odour Filter prevents bad smells and provides hygiene within the fridge.

•

Internal LED Lighting Brighter _ more durable and more energy efficient than standard bulb lighting.

•

Fast Freeze Setting quickly freezes fresh food to preserve the taste and nutrients.

•

Quick Cool provides a rapid cooling process while keeping nutritional food values and flavours intact.

•

Holiday Mode keeps the fridge-freezer running in the most energy efficient way during holiday periods.

BZ77F

The Tall Frost-Free Freezer has user-friendly features that include the Fast Freeze Switch, Beko’s Freezer Guard technology, which means the freezer will work in temperatures down to -15ºC, and Frost Free, which prevents ice building up and restricting valuable storage space. It is fully integrated and backed with a full two-year parts and labour warranty.

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This 60cm three-door stainless steel Frost Free fridge-freezer has Beko’s MultiZone technology, which allows the middle compartment to be used as a fridge or a freezer. The advanced digital display also means the consumer has full control of the appliance. It is fully integrated and backed with a full two-year parts and labour warranty.

Features include: •

Beko CFF6873GX 60cm three-door stainless steel Frost-Free fridge-freezer with Multi-Zone

Beko BZ77F fully integrated A+ Frost-Free tall freezer

CFF6873GX

Multi-Zone compartment allows a compartment to be switched from fridge to freezer or vice versa at the press of a button.

New! Zanussi Fridge Freezers Zanussi’s new fridge-freezers to be launched in May incorporate clever features that make storing food and locking in the freshness easy.

Easy Storage Inside, storage has been made as easy as possible. These Space+ models are up to 40 litres bigger inside compared with other similar sized models, which means you can store more and shop less often. There is also a dedicated Super Fresh compartment that is ideal for storing meat and fish, keeping it chilled and fresh.

The Zanussi Dual Shelf, available on all models, is a clever idea that makes one shelf half bottle/wine rack and half normal shelf for flexible storage. The new, handy Easy Store boxes are ideal for keeping little things such as garlic, herbs and soft fruit (or even lipstick!) separate from the rest of the contents.

Deeper vegetable drawers in the fridge give

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refrigeration

Zanussi A++ ZRB38315WA white combi bottom fridge-freezer

50-50 Fridge-Freezers This year Zanussi also offers a range of 50-50 split fridge-freezers for those who want equal space in the fridge and freezer (ZRB35315WA).

Electrolux Inspiration EN3487AOH fridge-freezer in Glossy Red

ZRB38338WA Fridge-Freezer

more room for the whole week’s shop and the Space+ freezer drawers are ideal for large family packs.

Efficient Cooling Space+ Extra models offer the TwinTech Frost Free technology. Separate cooling systems for the fridge and freezer provide the ideal humidity in each compartment so food doesn’t dry out, odours don’t cross over, and it locks in the food’s natural freshness. These models are also Frost Free.

A Quick Chill button offers a fast and easy way to chill down the weekly shop, while AirFlow+ ensures fast and even chilling throughout the fridge interior.

Italian Design Zanussi is also about Italian design. The new fridge-freezers are sleek and modern looking with clean lines. Full-size arched doors offer neat integrated handles or robust ones, depending on the model. On the inside, graphics add style and edge while curved drawer handles match the door designs.

All the 60cm combis have simple electronic controls and LED lighting, while our top of the range model’s (ZRB38338) on-door LED display with intuitive interface makes fast, direct temperature selection even easier.

They are available in white and/or stainless steel, depending on the model.

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•

White, robust, chunky external handle

•

Space+

•

TwinTech

•

Frost Free

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Super Fresh Compartment

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Airflow+

•

Dual Shelf

•

On door LED Display

•

A++ energy rated

•

H2,010 x W595 x D630mm

•

Net Capacity: 265/92 litres

•

Available from May 2013

ZRB38315XA Fridge-Freezer •

White or stainless steel, integrated handle

•

Space+

•

TwinTech

•

Frost Free

•

Airflow+

•

Super Fresh compartment

•

Dual Shelf

•

A++ energy rated

•

H2,010 x W595 x D630mm

•

Net Capacity fridge: 265/92 litres

•

Available from May 2013

Colourful New Electrolux Fridges Keep Fruit and Vegetables Fresh Up to a Week Longer The newest additions to the Electrolux Inspiration range of home appliances are Glossy Red, Chocolate Brown, Lime Green and Ebony Black stainless steel fridgefreezers. While the others are painted, the Ebony Black model gets its colour from a unique finishing process enabling a true colour stainless steel.

“A well-chosen spot of colour can really refresh the look of a kitchen without having to rip out the cabinetry,” said Andrew Wasdell, Product Manager at Electrolux. “The colours are bright, but classic. We chose them to match present and future d e s i g n trends, so they will look good for a long time.”

Electrolux, which has equipped the kitchens of about half of Europe’s Michelin c h e f s , says that beneath the surface, the appliance’s design is based on the needs that Electrolux Inspiration EN3487AOJ professional fridge-freezer in Lime Green chefs have for the freshest possible ingredients.

“Their fridge-freezers use separate cooling systems to maintain the right humidity to

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keep foods fresh,” added Andrew. “These fridges have dual cooling circuits called TwinTech. With TwinTech, humidity can be kept at 65-90%, compared to 25-40% for single-circuit frost-free fridge-freezers. Salad stays fresh for a week with almost no loss of moisture. Vitamin levels in fresh fruits and vegetables show no drop after 10 days.

“Weekly shopping can save time, but 33% of food purchased is being thrown away before it is eaten. TwinTech helps reduce food waste and also gives people more flexibility to cook what they want, when they want, instead of having to go by ‘what will spoil first’.”

Stainless Steel: €1,098 EN3487AOJ 185cm tall Satin Lime Green: €999 EN3487AOO 185cm tall Chocolate Brown: €999 EN3487AOH 185cm tall Glossy Red: €999

Whirlpool 6th Sense Absolute 70cm Fresh Control Fridge-Freezer

MultiFlow FreshPlus models take this a step further with MultiFlow, a forced-air system that ensures consistent humidity and temperature at every level within the fridge.

The 420-litre capacity of the fridge provides 27% more space than the standard 60cm combi, which holds up to 330 litres.

This allows for more flexible refrigerator management and guarantees more food is preserved perfectly, meaning you can go longer between shopping trips. Even the freezer holds more food that might otherwise go to waste, offering the largest freezer capacity on the market.

The fridges also offer LED lighting with a premium ‘fade in’ effect in which light intensity grows smoothly for two seconds.

From a practical point of view, LEDs create brighter light and better visibility, while consuming less energy and resulting in no heating inside the fridge.

Inspiration Coloured Fridge-Freezers: Fresh FrostFree fridge-freezer

•

FreshFlow MultiAirflow technology

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CrispFresh control

•

Taste Guard air filter

•

In-door LCD touch controls

•

Capacity: 249/91 litres

•

FreshZone chiller compartment with SuperChill

•

A+ energy rating

•

H1,850 / H2,000 x W600 x D700mm

drawer

with

Not only is less food wasted, but with the Whirlpool 6th Sense Fresh Control Combi 70 fridge, you can save energy too: the best model in the range ranks in the A+++ energy class, saving up to 50% on energy with its advanced electronic interface and variable speed efficiency compressor.

humidity

Eco Night

Whirlpool Absolute 70cm Fresh Control fridge-freezer

SRPs EN3487AOY 185cm Stainless Steel: €999

tall

Ebony

Black

EN3881AOY

tall

Ebony

Black

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200cm

The Whirlpool 6th Sense Fresh Control technology featured in the combi 70cm fridge in Absolute design ensures long-lasting food freshness: its advanced sensors constantly check temperature and humidity levels inside the entire fridge cavity to restore the conservation temperature five times faster and to actively set the ideal humidity level.

The 6th Sense Fresh Control maintains a range of 70-85% humidity – as recommended by the food technology experts at AITA – minimising food dehydration, even when food is not properly packed.

This technology ensures maximum food freshness that lasts up to four times longer.

Following rigorous testing, this claim has been fully endorsed by the independent testing institute SLG Prüf und Zertifizierungs GmbH.

As well as the distinctive colours, the fridges also offer intuitive, touch-sensitive LCD displays with white digits for temperature and function setting. The displays are visually aligned with those of the other appliances in the Inspiration range.

•

– a concept that is no longer acceptable in 2013 – which is why it is constantly dedicated to studying new solutions to prolong the shelf life of fresh foods conserved in the fridge and freezer, while also preserving their nutritional value.

Whirlpool technology is designed to help consumers use food more wisely and preserve it longer. Whirlpool knows the importance of reducing domestic food waste

The latest advancement in energy and money savings is the Eco Night function: this algorithm programmes the appliance to take advantage of low tariff intervals, meaning you save on energy bills by programming the timer to run defrosting cycles during the time of your choosing, simultaneously optimising both performance and energy consumption.

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times past

30 Years Ago - from IEIR, March 1984

Haloheat First from Carlile At an impressive reception in the Gresham Hotel late last month, Thorn EMI Carlile Ltd presented their 1984 range of cookers, hobs and microwave ovens. The outstanding new model being shown for the first time was the Haloheat ceramic hob.

The Haloheat represents a totally new concept in electric cooking and is the world’s first electric hob to cook by light. Under each cooking area are four specially developed tungsten halogen filament lamps, with a highly efficient reflector directing the light upwards. The infrared rays pass immediately through the ceramic hob into the pan and its contents.

Austin Keeley, Dublin, with Bernie Crossan, Longford; Robert Marsh, Ballina; Brian O’Kane, Sales Director, Carlile; Seamus Walsh, ESB; and Michael Craughwell, Galway.

ITA 1984 Video Awards At the presentation of the International Television Association (Ireland) 1984 Video Awards were Alec Flavin, divisional manager of the award sponsors, 3M (Ireland); John Martin of Film-Video International Productions, winner of the overall Award of Excellence; and adjudicator Peter Canning of RTE. The award was for a ‘Careers in Electronics’ video commissioned by the Youth Employment Agency as part of a careers guidance series for second level students.

Peats Sponsor Wheelchair Olympics Team Peats Wholesale are to sponsor the Irish Wheelchair Team at the Olympic Games later this year. Some 30 men and women athletes will represent Ireland at the 7th World Wheelchair Games, which will take place in Illinois, USA, from 19th June to 4th July under the guidance of Team Manager, Jimmy Byrne.

To coincide with the Games, Peats are introducing a competition that will also benefit their dealers. If they actively promote and display the Ross headphones and other products prior to and during the 1984 Wheelchair Olympics, they will receive a 7.5% discount right across the complete Ross Electronics range.

20 Years Ago - from IEIR, March 1994

Stop Rocking the Boat!

This was the clear message to both retailers and manufacturers alike at the recent RTRA Annual Conference in Galway. Senseless price wars, rental rates that have gone too cheap, and interest-free credit were cited as the principal reasons for the perilous state that the industry finds itself in at present.

In her opening address to the Conference, President Maeve Costello put these damaging and self-destructive practices into context and stressed that they are difficulties that are entirely man-made, i.e. ones that are perpetuated by the industry itself.

Ann Fitzgerald, winner of the Ladies Golf Competition, with RTRA President Maeve Costello.

Mitsubishi World Cup Competition Mitsubishi Electric, in conjunction with Irish Electrical Review, has organised a World Cup Window Display Competition that is open to all Mitsubishi Electric dealers and will run from 1st April to 30th June 1994.

The competition will be judged by Jack Charlton, with the winners receiving a holiday for two in Spain for seven nights with flight and accommodation included.

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Whirlpool European Blitz Whirlpool is currently in the middle of a major European tour taking in 20 countries, requiring 17 different language presentations and gaining direct access, in select locations, to 25,000 dealers.

The objective of the tour is to unveil Whirlpool’s marketing/ sales strategy for 1994 and to detail the new products coming on stream and the dealer incentives and promotional packages that will support them.

The Irish event took place recently at Dromoland Castle and was attended by approximately 100 guests, comprising dealers and their partners.

Michael Noonan TD with Florence Noonan; Michael Shaw, Whirlpool; and Des McCormack, Whirlpool.

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