Appliance Retailer October-November 2022

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Sustainability in vogue for the long-term

T he Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is putting businesses on notice as it targets ‘greenwashing’ when environmental or sustainability claims are made in the marketing of goods and services.

The crackdown responds to growing concerns that some businesses are falsely promoting environmental or green credentials to capitalise on changing consumer preferences.

“Broad terms like ‘environmentally friendly’, ‘green’, or ‘sustainable’ have limited value and may mislead consumers, as they rarely provide enough information about what that exactly means in terms of the product or service consumers are considering purchasing,” ACCC deputy chair, Delia Rickard said at a recent Sustainability Summit in Sydney.

The ACCC has since launched two internet sweeps to identify misleading marketing claims and online business reviews across a range of sectors including household products and appliances.

“Many businesses go to extraordinary lengths to make their processes, products and services more sustainable. This innovation and investment should be protected from unscrupulous behaviour of other businesses making green claims without incurring the same costs,” Rickard said.

Sustainability was identified as a key trend at EuroCucina in Milan and quickly became a recurring theme at IFA in Berlin.

The press conferences before the IFA exhibition officially opens are historically used to highlight new products and technologies but this year there was a clear shift in focus towards broader brand messages, headlined by sustainability. Bold statements around commitments to a greener future came as no surprise given the energy crisis impacting Europe, which has largely stemmed from cost increases due to Russia’s war with Ukraine. Read more about the key sustainability messages in our IFA coverage from page 14.

In this edition, you will also find our second Sustainability Report that contains contributions from leading brands in the appliance and consumer electronics industry across areas including product stewardship, diversity and inclusion, external partnerships and measuring progress against sustainability targets and goals. Read more from page 38.

It appears that sustainability will only continue to become more prevalent in the public eye rather than be reserved for the boardroom so be prepared to show your green credentials – but only if they can be substantiated and add value to the purchase decision.

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DE’LONGHI LA SPECIALISTA MAESTRO: NOW SERVING COLD BREW IN UNDER FIVE MINUTES

Discover a world of refreshing cold coffee beverages with the new La Specialista Maestro with innovative Cold Extraction technology. The innovative Cold Extraction technology bypasses heat and optimises extraction pressure to deliver balanced cold coffee recipes such as cold brew, in a fraction of the traditional brewing time. Experience De’Longhi’s unique new Espresso Cool recipe for a fresh new take on the traditional Italian espresso. With a creamy textured mouthfeel and crema, but a lighter and smoother taste, it is the perfect coffee recipe for summer; best when served over ice or as a base for cocktails and recipes. La Specialista Maestro provides the tools to craft the authentic barista experience, with precise control over grinding, dose and temperature. Enjoy your favourites from espresso to cold brew and discover your coffee symphony.

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IN THIS ISSUE

EDITOR’S NOTE

03 Sustainability in vogue for the long-term

From the boardroom to the limelight.

NEWS 06 Winning Group no longer a Narta member

As the Group continues to grow into new markets and expands its offering beyond appliances and electronics categories.

08

Eurolinx enhances sales training for retail partners

Equipping sales staff with better resources and content to improve the in-store customer experience.

10 Hart & Co delivers exclusive La Cornue boutique in WA

The new concept store showcases an expansive range of La Cornue products to highlight the breadth of style, colour and detailing options.

12

NZ appliance specialist, Kitchen Things opens its largest store

Kitchen Things Mt Wellington features premium and luxury brands with a dedicated designer space and working kitchen.

IFA returns to Berlin for first physical event since 2019 Sustainability quickly emerged as a key theme at IFA 2022 seen through keynote speeches, stand designs and new products.

14

FEATURES 21

Home Café

Demand for premium at-home coffee experiences is not showing any signs of a slowdown with manufacturers looking to emerging trends such as the rise in cold brew consumption.

33 Floorcare

Sales of handstick and robotic vacuum cleaners continue to support the category as consumers seek more convenience.

44 Cooling

With increasing energy prices, consumers are looking to products offering greater efficiencies, as well as features that help improve air quality.

56 Refrigeration

Ongoing remote working and a return to entertaining at home are supporting demand for larger capacity refrigerators and more convenient storage solutions.

66 Wine Cabinets

Wine cabinets and coolers remain a niche category in Australia but have seen an acceleration in uptake in line with home renovation activity.

WHAT’S HOT

72 Pick of the crop

TCL T-Pro Split System, Electrolux UltimateTaste French Door Refrigerator, Limited Edition Smeg Coca-Cola Fridge, and more.

WINNING GROUP NO LONGER A NARTA MEMBER

Winning Group resigned its membership of Narta, effective 31 August 2022.

Winning Group CEO, John Winning provided a statement explaining the decision.

“As the Winning Group continues to grow into new markets, such as New Zealand, and we expand our offering beyond electronic categories with the launch of Andoo and Rogerseller and Spence & Lyda joining our business, our strategic direction and our mission to create the best experiences in the world, for the world, is outside of Narta’s core business,” he told Appliance Retailer.

“Therefore, we will be ceasing our membership with Narta, effective 31 August. We look forward to remaining friends with the amazing people we’ve connected with over the last 20 plus years thanks to Narta. We have been proud members and I wish them the best for the future.”

Narta CEO, Michael Jackson acknowledged the strategic direction of Winning Group, including new businesses and ventures, as a focus for them moving forward.

“Several of these strategies are outside the Narta business model, creating a feeling for Winnings that they are a round peg in a square hole. Narta recognises this and the challenges for Winnings to comply and meet the requirements of their Narta membership,” he told Appliance Retailer.

“In my 25 years working with Winning Appliances including 20 years at Narta, I have always regarded Winning Appliances as a valued member. The challenges for both of us is not a surprise. As the CEO, we support their decision and we hope it is the right one for their business.”

Harvey Norman promotes Iain Tennant and Adam Evans to BDM roles

Winning Group CEO, John Winning said the group’s strategic direction and mission is now outside of Narta’s core business.

Harvey Norman general manager –electrical, David Ackery has confirmed Iain Tennant has been promoted to business development manager – major appliances after previously working in

the position of business development manager – cooking. Tennant replaces Ashley Collins.

“Iain has been around our company for 25 years and has had roles at our

Flemington head office for 12 years. He has worked his way up through the system and different product categories. I am very pleased he has been given the opportunity he has wanted for some time.”

Tennant commenced as a business development manager for Joyce Mayne and Domayne in 1997 and has since worked as air conditioning and seasonal buyer.

Adam Evans has been appointed to the role vacated by Tennant – as business development manager – cooking.

“In true Harvey Norman fashion, he has a long history in the business and we are pleased to appoint Adam to this role. We feel he has a lot of potential and has shown the passion and desire to succeed.”

Appliance Retailer understands Ashley Collins will be confirmed shortly as a Harvey Norman franchisee.

The Harvey Norman team (L to R): Nik Papa, Ashley Collins, David Ackery, Lachlan Roach, Tim Hannon and Iain Tennant pictured with Jim Kalotheos at EuroCucina in Milan.

digiDirect cuts the ribbon on Parramatta store

digiDirect has formally opened the doors to its Parramatta Westfield store in western Sydney, with long queues of customers and an audience of industry heavyweights from leading consumer electronics brands.

After completing the acquisition of Tom Saade’s Parramatta Cameras store in July to establish a presence in the western Sydney catchment, digiDirect embarked on a refit which was unveiled at the official store opening.

digiDirect general manager, Haig Kayserian called the store “a manifestation of digiDirect’s goal to service the modern camera consumer”, displaying a range anchored in cameras and imaging, complemented by a carefully curated range of computers, mobiles, gaming and streaming products.

“We want digiDirect to become as synonymous to gamers, streamers and content creators as we are for photographers, videographers, hobbyists and editors,” Kayserian said.

digiDirect Parramatta showcases brands including Canon, Sony, Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, Panasonic, Olympus, DJI, Tamron, Sigma, Manfrotto and Sandisk, as well as Apple, Dell, Asus, Samsung, AOC, Lenovo, Oppo, Rode, Logitech, Elgato, LaCie, and Corsair, among others.

Many of these brand representatives were in attendance, along with former store owner Tom Saade, as digiDirect group general manager, Sina Clayton and digiDirect Parramatta store manager, Cameron Mount cut the ribbon to open the store.

Customers enjoyed a range of deals throughout the opening weekend with an

in-store DJ, coffee cart and digiDirect branded goodies.

“We thank our owner Shant Kradjian for his visionary and inspirational leadership, and for allowing us on his special journey to serve the modern camera consumer while honouring the brands they love with care and respect,” Kayserian added.

FUJITSU GENERAL APPOINTS NEW STATE MANAGER FOR NSW

Fujitsu General Australia has welcomed David Debs to the role of NSW state manager.

He brings more than 30 years of sales experience to Fujitsu General, most recently as national channel manager for Narta at Smeg.

Prior to joining Smeg, Debs worked with Nilfisk-Advance and Bosch.

“Fujitsu General is continuing to grow and strive towards even greater innovation and customer satisfaction, so we value the experience and unique insight that comes with industry professionals like David,” Fujitsu General Australia head of sales, Peter Cashel said.

“David comes to us with extensive experience in sales and has held numerous senior roles. He also brings impressive leadership qualities, strong commercial and market knowledge, and I know he will be a great fit for the NSW sales team to help drive our overall company goals and vision.

“We look forward to watching Fujitsu General benefit from his dedication to driving continuous improvement and productivity and enhancing the working environment.”

Fujitsu General NSW state manager, David Debs.

digiDirect general manager, Sina Clayton and Parramatta store manager, Cameron Mount cut the ribbon to officially open the new store.

Godfreys opens showroom for commercial division

Godfreys has opened a new commercial support office in Melbourne as it celebrates 90 years in business.

The showroom showcases a full range of commercial cleaning machines and products, providing visitors the opportunity to explore the Godfreys Commercial product range and find the most efficient and effective cleaning solution for their business. Godfreys Commercial experts provide customers with education and training.

The showroom represents a key part of Godfreys Commercial’s growth agenda and will enhance the division’s ability to meet demand for commercial cleaning solutions, which has seen steady growth over recent years.

Commenting on the opening, Godfreys Commercial general manager, Daniel Pisaniello said, “We’re excited

to open our new industry-leading commercial support office and showroom and distribution centre, which connects our expert team directly with our growing commercial customer base.”

He added: “At Godfreys Commercial we’re not just focused on selling products. With 90 years of experience providing industry leading services, our customers ultimately drive us and we’re intent on better understanding their industrial cleaning requirements and assisting them to find the best possible solution.

“For our commercial customers this means identifying and training them in the right products that will help their businesses flourish, opening this showroom is a commitment to providing best-in-class service.”

Eurolinx enhances sales training for retail partners

Eurolinx has introduced a new retail sales enablement platform to equip its retail partners with better sales resources and content to improve the in-store customer experience.

Eurolinx training and development manager, Paul Kim noted that the primary focus of the new tool was “to deliver product knowledge to the right people as the key to generate sales and provide partners and customers with correct and accurate information nationwide”.

He continued: “We want to enable access to streamlined training content so our retail partners can easily acquire quality product knowledge. The app delivers interactive content by way of flashcards, Q&As and how-to videos to enhance product expertise and ultimately, deliver a better in-store customer experience.”

Through the new platform, retail staff can access sales information on Eurolinx brands including ILVE, Artusi and Fhiaba via an app.

The Eurolinx retail sales enablement platform is now live to all brand partners.

AMAZON AUSTRALIA INTRODUCES FREE ONE-DAY DELIVERY

Amazon Australia is offering free one-day delivery on eligible items for Prime members in most areas of Melbourne and Sydney with no minimum spend.

Hundreds of thousands of products across categories including household, personal care, electronics, and more are eligible for free one-day delivery. Items can be identified by the ‘Prime free one-day’ or ‘Prime one-day’ icon with the order cut-off time as late as midnight to receive items the next day.

Amazon Australia country manager, Janet Menzies said, “We know that Australian customers are always looking for value through great prices and fast delivery, so we’re thrilled to be able to make Prime even more convenient with free one-day delivery.

“Our ability to offer customers faster delivery speeds is a direct result of our continued investment and expansion of our operations in Australia. Building fulfilment centres and delivery stations close to where our customers live and work, means packages travel shorter distances, accelerating shipping speeds.”

Prime members who are not in an eligible postcode will still benefit from free delivery in as fast as two days on eligible orders.

The Godfreys Commercial showroom showcases a full range of commercial cleaning machines and products, providing visitors the opportunity to explore the range.

Amazon is offering free one-day delivery on eligible items for Prime members.

Through the new platform, retail staff can access sales information on Eurolinx brands including ILVE, Artusi and Fhiaba via an app.

BI-RITE HOSTS NATIONAL CONFERENCE IN BRISBANE

Bi-Rite recently welcomed a select group of suppliers and members to its 2022 national conference at the Sofitel Brisbane. It was the group’s first inperson conference since September 2019.

Under the theme, ‘Better Than Yesterday’, the conference commenced with presentations from Bi-Rite CEO, AK Sacur and COO, Hamza Hussein.

Sacur reflected on the challenges faced since January 2020, starting with bushfires, followed by the Covid pandemic, and more recently the east coast floods and war in Ukraine. “We have been able to overcome these challenges with the resilience and strength of our people and communities,” Sacur told conference attendees.

“We want to focus on where we are today by reflecting on the major wins for our business and embracing the learnings from the last couple of years.”

Sacur gave a compelling business recap, reporting strong growth yearto-date for the overall business, and highlighting key growth categories of TV/AV, French Door refrigeration, laundry, dishwashers and cooking appliances compared to 2019 – the last normal year before Covid.

The top performing category for the group was small appliances, now accounting for 15% unit share of total products sold. Sales in the floorcare category alone have grown incredibly and the carpet washer segment is now five times bigger than in 2019 for the group, as consumers became more conscious about cleanliness in the home.

“Many of our members attracted first time customers during Covid as people were actively looking to support local businesses, particularly in regional areas. Our members supported more categories than ever before as customers upgraded to better quality products that provided more convenience,” Sacur said.

He acknowledged that consumers are becoming more mindful of their discretionary spend due to rising interest rates and inflation, but the group remains confident of future growth as most of the products ranged in stores are a ‘need’ rather than a ‘want’, particularly when it comes to replacement appliances for the kitchen and laundry.

“There is a greater emphasis on value for money so consumers need to

There is a greater emphasis on value for money so consumers need to be educated on features and benefits more than ever. They aren’t necessarily buying the cheapest products, but they want to know the products they are choosing deliver value…

”

be educated on features and benefits more than ever. They aren’t necessarily buying the cheapest products, but they want to know the products they are choosing deliver value through better energy ratings or longer warranties, for example,” Sacur said.

Hussein then presented the changes to Bi-Rite’s go-to-market strategy as the marketing department expanded to five team members during Covid.

In 2019, Bi-Rite focused on five marketing channels – catalogue, TV, website, social media and training –which has increased to 14 channels in 2022. “We are constantly improving our marketing strategy and bringing more continuity across all channels with a new and consistent style, which can be seen

in our print catalogues and eDMs in particular,” Hussein said.

“We have tripled the amount of eDMs we send compared to 2020 and have seen increased engagement with growth in our open and click-through rates that are above the industry average. Our subscriber list has also nearly doubled since 2021.”

Bi-Rite is also focusing on delivering more unique and engaging editorial content via social media and brand campaigns that educate the consumer about new or different product features such as Auto Dose washing machines, pyrolytic ovens and induction cooktops. “We are seeing these educational pieces translate into increased sales within those related categories,” Hussein said.

“The Bi-Rite website is also evolving with a mobile-first approach, coupled with a greater focus on our knowledge and core values, easier filtering, video content and customer reviews for a more streamlined path to purchase.”

Bi-Rite then held a trade show for its members with representation from Bissell, Beko, Breville, ChiQ, Electrolux

Home Products, Fisher & Paykel, Haier, Hisense, LG Electronics, Spectrum Brands, Sunbeam and TCL. This was an opportunity for these brands to highlight current and future product launches, promotions and more.

On the evening of day one, Bi-Rite hosted a fine dining experience with all members and suppliers in attendance.

Bi-Rite chief operating officer, Hamza Hussein and chief executive officer, AK Sacur.

“

Hart & Co. delivers French culinary flair with exclusive La Cornue boutique

Hart & Co. has unveiled a new La Cornue luxury concept store within its Osborne Park showroom, marking the brand’s exclusive debut in Western Australia.

The space showcases an expansive range of La Cornue products for customers to see the full breadth of style, colour and detailing options when choosing La Cornue. It is also fitted with extensive La Cornue cabinetry options.

Hart & Co. and La Cornue share a passion for craftsmanship and a commitment to excellence, making this new boutique a natural progression for the two brands, according to Hart & Co. managing director, Rick Hart.

“Our appliances have been specifically curated to ensure that we offer world-class, innovative products to our clients. We’re exceptionally proud to be partnering with La Cornue, bringing their timeless kitchen collections to Western Australian homeowners, architects and designers,” Hart said.

“This new luxury concept store takes the brand experience to a whole new level, allowing customers to touch, see and explore the products as if they were in their own home, all in a beautifully designed space that inspires possibilities. Stepping inside the new boutique is a one-of-a-kind experience – just like the La Cornue products themselves.”

To help customers make an informed choice, there are oneon-one La Cornue demonstrations and culinary master classes, as well as experts on-hand to offer advice.

The new 100-square-metre concept store has been designed by leading Sydney interior designers, Thomas Hamel & Associates, with the design led by former creative director, now consultant for TH&A for the La Cornue showroom, Becky Yager.

“La Cornue is a brand I’ve long admired, so we were delighted to be asked to create their new space at Hart & Co. I designed the space to reflect the look and feel of a supremely elegant, open-plan kitchen, with areas to cook, benchtop space to prepare culinary creations, pantry space, and a generous dining table to sit down and enjoy a meal,” Yager said.

“There are also consultation areas where you can discuss customisation options for your La Cornue range cooker and joinery, and plenty of space for customers to move around and interact with the products.”

Andi-Co, distributors of La Cornue in Australia, CEO, Tim Luce said, “We’re thrilled to see La Cornue so beautifully represented to our Western Australian customers, and to be able to show them how La Cornue can elevate their cooking space to something truly special. The incredible history, beauty and high-performance cooking capabilities of La Cornue are things you can only truly appreciate when you experience them first-hand – and we’re delighted that WA customers will now have that opportunity.”

Hart & Co. has unveiled a new La Cornue luxury concept store within its Osborne Park showroom.

Spacious Shelving For

NZ appliance specialist, Kitchen Things opens its largest store in Mt Wellington

BY EMILY BENCIC

NewZealand family-owned kitchen and laundry appliance retailer,

Kitchen Things has opened a new store at 86 Lunn Avenue in Mt Wellington, Auckland, the largest store in the network.

Kitchen Things Mt Wellington features premium and luxury brands with a dedicated designer space, along with 27 working appliances in the kitchen where customers can book a pre-purchase or post-purchase experience to get the most out of their appliance or attend an event.

Since opening in August 2022, the store is already proving to be a popular location and an impressive offer. “It was with pride and a sense of the relief that the doors opened to our new Kitchen Things store,” Jones Family Business managing director, Rachel Louie said.

“Taking on the project of opening a new store during a global pandemic is not easy. However, we have done it and my father and founding chair, Mark Jones, the team and I are absolutely thrilled with the results.

“Early in 2021 we made the decision to close our previous Mt Wellington store on 31 March with the expectation that we would have opened at Lunn Ave by then, but supply challenges and Covid meant our new store was delayed.

“Thankfully our team could work in our other Auckland stores for the four months leading up to the opening and undertake training of Gaggenau, Sub Zero and Wolf, that were new brands for some of our team to sell, previously only having been in our Kitchen Things Luxury Collection showroom in Newmarket within Auckland,” she continued.

The Kitchen Things Lunn Avenue team with founder Mark Jones (2nd from left) and managing director, Rachel Louie (5th from left).

“The store has a working laundry and our largest working kitchen where our cooking technology experts enable our customers to learn about the technology available in appliances and learn how to get the most out of their appliance selection. We also have a commercial room for our trade customers to be able to make package selections for projects and a designer space which designers and architects can book to meet with their clients.”

The Miele display .

Designers and architects can book the designer space to meet with clients.

The Wolf display in the Kitchen Things Lunn Avenue store.

The Kitchen Things Lunn Avenue store is the largest in the retailer’s New Zealand network.

“

The store has a working laundry and our largest working kitchen where our cooking technology experts enable our customers to learn about the technology available in appliances and learn how to get the most out of their appliance selection.

The Asko display.

The Bosch display.

The Neff display.

The Gaggenau display.

The Smeg display.

IFA returns to Berlin for first physical event since 2019

IFA made its return as a live in-person exhibition in Berlin for 2022. Sustainability quickly emerged as a key theme through keynote speeches, stand designs and new products. Emily Bencic and James Wells report on the show highlights from the major appliance brands.

AEG’s new laundry range has innovations designed to save energy and water.

AEG debuts new eco-friendly laundry range

AEG is launching a new laundry range with innovations designed to save energy and water.

With four tiers of washing machines in the range – 6000S ProSense, 7000S ProSteam, 8000S PowerCare and 9000S AbsoluteCare – new features include SoftWater that filters and purifies the water it uses and a PowerClean program that can clean clothes efficiently and remove stains at only 30 degrees Celsius.

The 25-minute SteamRefresh program steams garments instead of washing them using 96% less water than a regular wash cycle – just two litres versus 50 litres. An add-on filter for washing machines can catch up to 90% of microplastic fibres released by synthetic clothing.

Unique to AEG is the UniversalDose drawer designed for all types of detergents. With a patented design, all detergents are effectively dissolved, including pods and capsules, even during short washes or low temperatures.

A new range of tumble dryers have also been developed to minimise energy use. Thanks to 3D scan technology, the dryer ‘scans’ the garments to identify humidity levels inside the items ensuring they are evenly dried.

With the new SyncDry feature, the washing machine and dryer can communicate with one another. AR

Murat Dora (Beko), Dan Pittman (Beko), David Dorsett Lynn (Retravision), Scott Whitney (Retravision) and Jimmy Kalotheos (Beko).

Josh Marshall (LG) CS Yoon (LG), Murray Richardson (LG), Tania Garonzi (The Good Guys) and Frank Malcaus (LG).

Bing Lee team - Lionel Lee, Jasmine Lee, Ben Miller, Peter Harris, Sam Zalin and Joshua Lee.

Large group of Narta representatives on the Samsung stand.

Beko CEO tells industry: “You won’t like what you are going to hear”

“You won’t like what you are going to hear” was the opening line from the CEO of Beko and Arcelik, Hakan Bulgurlu, during his keynote speech at IFA Berlin 2022 titled Richer People –Poorer Planet?

“Turn off your air conditioners in the blistering heat. Unplug your appliances when you’re not using them. Don’t drive – ride a bicycle. These are things you’re hearing European politicians speaking about but not for the right reasons,” Bulgurlu told attendees.

“Welcome to modern day Europe. We are in a world significantly different than when I last gave the keynote speech in 2019 when we were on the back of the longest period of growth human history has seen. We created wealth. We brought people out of poverty. The environment was in a difficult situation and now we’re still talking about the climate.

“In Turkey we have lived with inflation for many generations. But for the first time Europe is tasting the bitter medicine – 9.1% headline inflation is something not seen since the Second World War. Interest rates are rising, capital is becoming scarce, and jobs will become difficult.

“China’s zero Covid policy has put pressure on supply chains. There’s

scarcity of supply components, increases in logistics costs and material costs. Yet Europe's energy crisis deepens every day. The global meltdown is disrupting economies and yet the hottest topic is heating the planet.

“At the same time, what’s happening with global warming? Demand for appliances is increasing every day. Today there are about 3.6 billion cooling

Jura launches next generation GIGA 10 coffee machine

Jura presented the latest addition to its GIGA fully automatic coffee machine line-up, the GIGA 10, with design upgrades to the GIGA 6, including a new colour finish and panorama touch screen display.

The GIGA 10 also offers Cold Brew technology – first introduced on the Z10 coffee machine – and the largest range of coffee specialities from Jura with a choice of 35 beverages, in addition to two bean canisters and two grinders.

Connected to the Jura Operating App (J.O.E.), users can pre-select the beverage type, coffee strength, coffee temperature, optional extra shot and add profiles for up to four users. The machine also has an automatic milk cleaning system.

Jura also unveiled the J8 fully automatic coffee machine with world-first sweet foam technology designed for coffee drinkers who enjoy a sweeter coffee taste and opens up a range of new recipes.

To make a sweet latte, for example, you pour syrup into the syrup attachment and the machine will froth the milk mixed with the syrup. Another key feature of the J8 is the coffee ‘eye’

devices in the world – air conditioners, refrigerators and freezers. By 2050, it’s predicted that there will be 14 billion appliances. How are we going to cope unless we change our energy mix and the energy efficiency of these appliances?

“We have to get to a net zero future and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees by the end of the century. Nothing else matters unless we get these targets right. Do not expect your governments and politicians to do this either. This is our responsibility.

“It’s an urgent issue. It’s not tomorrow’s issue. 2030 is when most government and company have set targets to decarbonise economies and businesses consumption. 2030 is only 380 weeks away.

“In the home appliances industry, we’ve made more eco-friendly appliances but the number of appliances in use are continually going up. Air conditioners, refrigeration, electric motors and lighting consume 40% of all power in the world. Think about the technologies available in terms of the efficiencies and how they are implemented today. If there’s a cleaner technology available, it should be mandatory that all of us use it. There’s a massive amount of responsibility on our industry,” he explained. AR

that helps people position the coffee cup in the right place under the two outlets. The addition of mild and intense coffee options helps people who may not understand the difference between a coarse and fine coffee grind.

Jura executives Michael Lipburger and Martin Wullschleger with the new GIGA 10 fully automatic coffee machine.

Beko and Arcelik CEO, Hakan Bulgurlu said there’s a massive amount of responsibility on our industry to be more sustainable.

Bosch updates Series 8 ovens and washers

Bosch has added Steam Function Plus to its new Series 8 premium ovens, which promises to cook food up to 35% faster than pure steam cooking by combining 120 degrees Celsius hot air and steam. A new Air Fry function allows users to place food on the Air Fry & Grill sheet developed by Bosch and available as an accessory, select the function and enter the desired temperature.

Bosch has also improved its PerfectRoast Plus roasting thermometer with three measuring points for more accurate results. When the final temperature is pre-selected, it can predict when the food will be finished cooking thanks to the Home Connect app.

The PerfectBake Plus baking sensor constantly measures the oxygen level of the air inside the oven and when a cake is ready, the oven stops the process via an automatic shut-off function. The baking process can be monitored and controlled remotely in the app and thanks to the built-in camera, users can look inside the oven remotely.

Bosch also launched its new Series 8 washing machines with i-Dos automatic dosing system. The new Mini Load option shortens the cycle time of the previously selected wash program to save time, water and energy when washing small loads. With the Iron Assist program, dry clothing is smoothed in about 20 minutes and wrinkles are reduced by up to 50%. The Series 8 heat pump dryer features a built-in, maintenance-free selfcleaning condenser which is rinsed with condensation water during operation for higher levels of efficiency.

SIEMENS IQ700 OVENS AND WASHERS

Siemens’ new generation of iQ700 ovens mark the brand’s first use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the kitchen. The new ovens use a combination of intelligent algorithms and an integrated oven camera. For dishes such as bread, pizzas or gratins, the individual browning function sensor adjusts the degree of browning using a scale of one to five. Once told how light or dark the finished dish should be, the oven switches itself off automatically once the preferred degree of browning has been reached.

In terms of design, a minimalist blackSteel line separates the oven door from the glass panel and the glass handle is barely visible against a background of the same colour, giving the illusion of a handle-free door. In addition, rotary knobs have been replaced with a large high-contrast full-touch TFT display.

In the laundry category, Siemens introduced the iQ700 washing machine with i-Dos automatic dosing system and new detergentScan feature that allows users to scan the barcode of the detergent packaging letting the appliance know what is being put into the detergent drawer.

Thanks to a Mini Load option, users can wash single garments or small amounts of clothing using less water and energy compared to other cycles. Developed originally for the dryer, the iQ700 washing machine is the first to offer the new smartFinish program that freshens up wrinkled clothing and reduces the number of creases by up to 50%.

BSH UNVEILS SINK SOLUTION

UNDER NEW BRAND

BSH has showcased its new brand, Solitaire. ‘The Waterbase’ is an integrated sink solution designed to transform the traditional kitchen workspace into an area that seamlessly integrates into the living space.

The Solitaire Waterbase has an integrated tap that offers six types of water including filtered water at room temperature, chilled filter water, medium sparkling water, classic sparkling water, hot water for tea and boiling water at an instant.

The Infinity Cover is a movable plate that makes the sink invisible when not in use. At the touch of a button on the command centre, the plate moves down to allow room to use the tap to wash fresh food or crockery. Kitchen accessories such as dishwashing liquid can be stored in the integrated cupboard under the sink and wet sponges can be placed in a drying compartment drawer. AR

Bosch has added Steam Function Plus and a new Air Fry function to its new Series 8 premium ovens.

‘The Waterbase’ is an integrated sink solution designed to transform the traditional kitchen workspace into an area that seamlessly integrates into the living space.

LG presents bold new fridges, laundry products, lifestyle TVs and audio systems

LG Electronics released bold MoodUp refrigerators with colour-changing LED door panels that allow households to choose various colours for the upper and lower compartments to change the look of the fridge and refresh the ‘mood’ in the kitchen. There will be two sizes of the MoodUp fridge launched in Australia –a 700 litre and a 900 litre French Door configuration – following successful selling sizes already in market.

LG also confirmed the imminent launch of the WashTower Compact laundry solution with a smaller width

and depth compared to the original WashTower system launched in 2019.

Compared to the 2019 LG WashTower, the width and depth of the WashTower Compact has been reduced by 100mm and 170mm respectively, while the height has been reduced by 235mm.

The WashTower is an integrated twoin-one system that combines a separate washer and dryer, all-in-one control panel and built-in AI in a single unit. All LG laundry products have AI direct drive, Turbo Clean 360 rapid wash cycle to wash clothes in record time, smart ThinQ

technology, scratch-proof tempered glass and iconic flat iconic design. The heat pump dryers feature an auto cleaning condenser.

LG revealed a range of new Lifestyle TVs. The highlight is the LG LX3 OLED Flex – the world’s first bendable 42-inch OLED TV. This hybrid product can be used for PC and gaming as well as TV broadcasts and content streaming services. The screen provides a customised viewing experience with 20 separate levels of curvature available.

Two new Lifestyle TV products – the Easel and Posé products exist within the Objet Collection that also incorporates products from the laundry and refrigeration portfolio and matching pastel colours. The Easel 65-inch OLED TV features a fabric panel that moves vertically to reduce the amount of screen visible to make the TV look more like an easel and an additional art piece within the room.

The LG Posé is a 55-inch OLED screen that comes with a stand or it can be wall mounted. The stand is a practical piece that features storage making it an art piece at the front and the back.

Featuring the 55-inch C2 OLED screen at its core, it also features storage for set top boxes and accessories at the rear and efficient cable management.

Outside of the Object collection is StanbyME – a 27-inch LCD screen mounted on a stand that is rotatable in portrait or landscape configurations. Featuring a three-hour battery life, StanbyME offers an ideal solution for a variety of portable applications.

LG has doubled down on its commitment to the wireless earbud category with the launch of two new models. The new LG TONE Free Fit TF8 features SwivelGrip technology that helps the wireless earbuds fit comfortably in place and is IPX7-rated and water resistant to rain and water splashes. The new LG TONE T90 is the world’s first wireless earbuds with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Head Tracking that recalibrates the sound as users move their heads.

Both earbuds now feature UVnano sterilisation for the entire gel cap – so when the earbuds are placed back into the charging case it effectively kills 99.9% of bacteria in just 10 minutes during the charging cycle. AR

The LG LX3 OLED Flex is the world’s first bendable 42-inch OLED TV.

LG MoodUp refrigerators feature colour-changing LED door panels.

Liebherr unveils sustainable insulation technology

After a decade of secret research, Liebherr has unveiled new sustainable refrigeration insulation technology using rocks from a volcano. BluRox replaces the insulation of a refrigerator which is not efficient and environmentally friendly and has been unchanged for the last 30 years. Liebherr has found a sustainable solution that has benefits in terms of energy efficiency and usable space.

The heavily patented technology uses volcanic rock sourced from Greece that is heated up and ground down to make pearlite. While the internal components using BluRox is heavier overall, the

insulation will not degrade for the entire life of the product and is fully recyclable at end of life unlike foambased insulation which reduces its energy efficiency over time.

Foam-insulated fridges receive their energy rating when they are produced and each year afterwards, they become less effective and the initial energy rating declines. By contrast, the Liebherr refrigerators should last up to 15 years and with BluRox insulation it will be as energy efficient as it was when it was produced, while also providing an increase in volume of 25%. AR

Panasonic unveils products and purpose

Panasonic presented not only its latest products, but also the company's latest sustainability solutions. Panasonic said it has increased investment that will create a long-lasting impact to the sustainability in the planet and reported strong growth from its battery production for the electric vehicle market for companies such as Tesla and Toyota as well as its heating and cooling solutions to replace fossil fuels in domestic and commercial applications.

Following the pandemic and an increasing work from home culture, Panasonic has identified key trends such as online cooking communities generating ideas, healthier eating at home reflected in growth of breadmaker sales and standalone combination ovens with steam. Energy efficiency is also a key consideration for consumers with energy costs increasing.

Panasonic’s products revolved around the theme of ‘Holisitic Wellbeing’ with three key categories within this sector of Inner, Outer and Spatial Wellbeing. Inner Wellbeing is represented by experiences that deliver simple healthy nutrition such as combination ovens, breadmakers and juicers. Outer Wellbeing delivers experiences to bring greater balance between mind and body such as hair care, men’s care, oral care and skin care. Spatial Wellbeing represents experiences that create hygienic and comfortable homes such as heating and cooling, air purification technology, imaging products and audio visual products.

One of the key products launched at the show is the Multishape modular personal groomer featuring a single handheld body with interchangeable heads creating five separate grooming products including a shaver, trimmer, toothbrush, and other attachments. AR

Josef Asbock (Miele), Michele Laghezza (Miele), Aleksander Marzidovsek (Harvey Norman Slovenia), Lachlan Roach (Harvey Norman Ireland) and Chris Kotis (Miele).

Chris Raju (Samsung), Harry Boileau (Winning Group), Andrew Wand (Samsung) and Todd Gibbons (Winning Group).

Panasonic presented products and latest sustainability solutions.

Liebherr has unveiled new sustainable refrigeration insulation technology using rocks from a volcano, named BluRox.

Harvey Norman Slovenia team Melissa Wilson, Jan Taskar and Alex Hope

Peter Drummond (Narta), Tim Luce (Andi-Co), Kay Spencer (Narta) and Joanne Edwards (Andi-Co).

The HydroClean self-cleaning function uses a specially formulated liquid cleaner that sprays around the cavity – similar to that of a dishwasher – to soften and remove soiling.

Miele unveils game changing HydroClean oven function similar to a dishwasher

Miele has developed a new steam oven with HydroClean self-cleaning function that uses a specially formulated liquid cleaner which is automatically mixed with fresh water, pumped to the top of the oven interior and sprayed uniformly around the cavity by an impeller – similar to that of a dishwasher – to soften and remove soiling. The foam is rinsed and drained then completed with a short drying phase.

Another key feature of the HydroClean oven is CombiCooking which combines conventional heating modes with additional moisture. Individual stages of cooking can be

defined by adjusting parametres such as operating mode, temperature, time and moisture, or users can choose from more than 200 automatic programs for meat, rice, bread or desserts.

Miele announced new additions to its two-in-one induction hob range featuring a new fan system. The KMDA 7272 Silence and the KMDA 7473 Silence draw in moisture, grease and odours via a centrally positioned downdraught extractor more forcefully than predecessor models.

The hobs can transport up to 610m 3 of air per hour (vented mode), yet sound during operation is 30% lower, making

them the quietest on the market according to Miele. The new Silence hobs see the active charcoal filter now located next to the grease filter for easy and fast replacement when needed.

In the cooktop category, Miele has added a special coating to its ceramic glass screen on its premium models. The DiamondFinish is one of the most resilient surface finishes on the market, being twice as hard as conventional ceramic glass and is scratch-resistant.

Miele is also upgrading its entry-line oven model from the H2000 series with the addition of obsidian black glass, 15 automatic programs and EasyControl Plus with two newly designed rotary selectors with an aluminium bezel, text display and additional sensor controls for more intuitive navigation.

Miele presented a new generation of freestanding refrigerators designed to reduce food waste while offering the convenience of interchangeable zones. The new K 4000 generation with PerfectFresh Active helps fruit and vegetables stay fresh for five times longer than in a conventional vegetable drawer guaranteed through a combination of the right temperature and humidity. The active moisturising system produces a fine mist of water that settles on food and protects quality and vitamins.

AR

TCL confirms expansion of Mini LED TVs with 85-inch and 98-inch models

TCL was the first to launch Mini LED into the Australian market and it continues to be a focus for the brand with the addition of an 85-inch and 98-inch model confirmed for 2023.

“We are seeing increased demand for QLED and Mini LED technology with consumers willing to spend a bit extra, even when we have a strong value proposition with our LED TVs. The blacks are blacker, there’s a bigger array of colours and improved contrast between the colours,” TCL general manager of sales, Jason Carrick told Appliance Retailer.

“Screen sizes of 65-inch and above are a big focus for TCL and our retail partners are expanding heavily into 85-inch and above by allocating more space on the shop floor for ultra-large screens. We currently have a 98-inch QLED TV in the market and it’s performing very well.

“With our latest Mini LED TVs, TCL Europe is determining whether it’s launched in 4K or 8K, but TCL Australia will most likely launch 4K to make it more appealing to customers due to the challenges with 8K content. Although 8K essentially provides better picture quality, it will add a huge cost. Pricing is yet to be confirmed but we aim to offer the 98inch TV at a very competitive price point of around $9,999.”

TCL also previewed the Cinema Wall on its stand at IFA – a 136-inch Micro LED TV with 32 individual panels. “It’s physically impossible to move one whole screen of this size so it is broken up into sections that are connected during installation. With this particular Micro LED display, there are 8.2 million pixels and within each pixel, there’s RGB to deliver precise colour.” AR

TCL will launch 85- and 98-inch Mini LED TVs in 2023.

Vestel previews new appliance concepts

Since 2022, Vestel has been increasing its focus and concentration on the Australian and New Zealand market with many new technologies and more sophisticated products.

“We already have a strong reputation in the market for dishwashers and the cooking category. We now have a stronger focus on cooling products as well as washing machines, tumble dryers and washer dryers,” Vestel sales manager for Australia and New Zealand, Ismail Çakır told Appliance Retailer

“We are focusing on an OEM/ODM business model as we already work with over 1,000 brands from around the world. We are strong in EU, CIS and MENA regions; now we will increase our market share including Australia and the US.

“Australia is a special market for us and if any customer orders products from us; because Australia is a focus market, we are prioritising these orders, shipments and product development. We want to use all technologies for certified products; for example, if any customer wants something from us, we are starting the investment in certification for that.

“The Australian buyers are interested in the Smoke Tech product. At this stage it is a prototype, but if the companies in Australia, UK and US are interested in this product once we examine the requests, we will put this product into production. We also received a strong response from the Sous Vide oven as well as the Heat Wrap that provides the possibility to cook evenly on five different levels simultaneously.

“In refrigeration, we received good feedback from buyers on the Fresh Check and Egg Cooker concepts. In dishwasher, buyers liked the energy efficient concept of using the existing heat to warm the air to dry the dishes. In laundry, we also launched new technology with the vertical stacking concept that uses the water from the tumble dryer for the next cycle of the washing machine,” he said. AR

Samsung VP explains Bespoke Home appliance strategy

Samsung Australia vice president – consumer electronics, Jeremy Senior explained Samsung’s future plans for home appliances under the Bespoke Home category.

“Bespoke is the epitome of bringing together design and personalisation to life. The best example of Bespoke in terms of functionality is refrigeration because not only can you choose the number of compartments, but you can also determine the colour to bring your personality to life,” Senior said.

“The cooking category is a huge part of the product portfolio in Europe and North America, and we see cooking as a natural extension of Bespoke in Australia. As we continue to bring more Bespoke appliances into the local market, we would imagine cooking may follow.

“The Bespoke Infinite line is a premium statement about what Bespoke can be. Understanding the consumers that are buying into that type of product and price point, they are looking for more than just a fridge that stores food and drinks. For example, Samsung’s wine cabinet uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to catalogue and recommend wines. More people are using apps like Vivino to record the wines being consumed and smart technology is increasingly coming into the culinary space.

“The Samsung AirDresser has been available in Australia for some time now and the ShoeDresser, which is currently available in various overseas markets, will be considered for Australia in the future as the technology and form factor evolves.”

Samsung showcased the company’s first OLED gaming monitor, the Odyssey OLED G8, available in an ultra-thin 34-inch form factor. The monitor delivers an extremely low 0.1ms response time, 175Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium for smooth gameplay.

Measuring just 3.9mm at its thinnest part, the Odyssey OLED G8 is the slimmest in its class and finished with a sleek metal frame. The monitor has a 21:9 aspect ratio with 100% colour volume and DCI-99.3% colour gamut with a 1800R curvature.

In addition to gaming, the display operates as an entertainment hub through Samsung’s Smart Hub with access to platforms such as Amazon Prime, Netflix and YouTube.

Samsung Electronics Australia is expanding the availability of its Micro LED technology to Australian consumers with the option of three screen sizes – 89-, 101- and 110-inch. Customers can inquire about the Micro LED through Samsung’s online store to receive pricing information and product support. AR

Vestel presented a prototype Smoke Tech oven which claims to be the first oven with an integrated smoker.

Bespoke is the epitome of bringing together design and personalisation to life, according to Samsung Australia vice president – consumer electronics, Jeremy Senior.

Home Café

Coffee styled to any occasion.

FILTERED COFFEE MAKERS

COFFEE

CRAVINGS for premium at-home coffee continue

BY EMILY BENCIC

Thedomestic coffee machine market experienced a 16% uplift in value and 2% decline in units for the year to July 2022 compared to the previous corresponding period, according to the latest GfK data.

Demand continues to shift from capsule machines, which declined 11% in units, towards premium fully automatic machines, which grew 27% in units to lead the double-digit growth in overall category revenue.

The average selling price (ASP) of manual espresso machines also continues to grow, up 14%,

contributing to total market revenue that almost doubled compared to the pre-Covid-19 period.

Nearly 19 million Australians drink coffee, or 75% of the entire population. Of those, more than one-quarter (28%) have three or more cups of coffee daily. As a nation, Australians consume 37 million kilograms of coffee a year.

Canstar Blue research found more than two-thirds (68%) of Australians say they saved ‘a fortune’ on reducing cafe-bought coffees by purchasing their own machine and now nearly 45% of Australians choose to make their coffee at home rather than buying from a café.

Cold brew in under

minutes.

DE’LONGHI Jessica Hull Senior Category Manager

Covid-induced lockdowns and hybrid working models have led to consumers spending more time at home and as a result, they are looking to appliances and accessories that bring the ultimate café experience to them, De’Longhi’s Jessica Hull said.

“Whether it be setting up an at-home coffee station or experimenting with a manual machine to hone their skills, there is still a growing demand to unlock at-home coffee moments.”

Premium and innovative technology continues to be a priority, especially when it facilitates simple to use, no-fuss products. Bringing some level of automation into the coffee-making process provides consistently quality results.

“We are seeing eagerness to evolve taste and increase knowledge about coffee. In turn, consumers are diversifying their coffee selection and open to experimenting with new recipes. With this in mind, De’Longhi ensures its latest Eletta Explore fully automatic coffee machine offers the widest variety of 42 recipes within the range, delivered with consistent quality at the touch of a button.”

There has also been continued growth in demand for cold coffee beverages such as iced coffees and cold brew, as well as non-dairy milk varieties. De’Longhi is tapping into this with two new machines dedicated to exploring cold coffees at home.

Eletta Explore features unique new LatteCrema Cool technology that delivers cold milk foam to finish off creamy iced coffees. The system is also compatible with non-dairy milk varieties. La Specialista Maestro is evolving this summer to include De’Longhi’s new Cold Extraction technology that produces cold brew coffee in under five minutes.

“We understand that today’s coffee machines must be able to meet the evolving tastes of consumers and their increased openness to being

De’Longhi Eletta Explore Fully Automatic Coffee Machine ECAM45055G

` Large touch screen and graphics for guidance

` New LatteCrema Cool cold milk foam technology for iced coffees

` Unique to-go function maintains taste even up to 16oz (475ml)

` 42 one-touch recipes covering classic hot coffees, iced coffees, tea, batch brew and to-go

RRP: $2,199

more creative with their coffee choices. The latest range of De’Longhi coffee machines offers multi-beverage solutions that cater to all tastes, seasons and at-home coffee occasions,” Hull said.

De’Longhi’s marketing strategy has continued to focus on consumer education and delivering cafe-quality coffee at home. “We have adapted our execution approach to cater for the changing environment amid lockdowns and disruptions. In doing so, De’Longhi hopes to equip individuals with the latest technology to create cafequality coffee, with ease, in the comfort of their own home.”

De’Longhi brings cutting-edge innovation, design and technology to address the changing needs of consumers and the latest trends. Namely, the Eletta Explore and La Specialista Maestro with Cold Extraction technology, launching in October 2022, to become the first manual coffee machine to deliver De'Longhi's new Cold Brew and Espresso Cool recipes. AR

Introducing Cold Extraction Technology now serving Cold Brew in under 5 minutes and Espresso Cool –a light and creamy espresso served cold.

BREVILLE Athena Kalos

Senior Category Manager

Australia has emerged post-Covid with a hybrid model of coffee purchase behaviour, as consumers work from home and commute into the office a couple of times a week, according to Breville’s Athena Kalos.

As cost of living has increased, Breville expects consumers to more carefully consider their daily coffee purchases outside of the home making them more open to purchasing a home coffee machine. “This provides us with an opportunity to further engage consumers with product demonstrations in-store, leverage staff training and product knowledge, enhance the consumer experience post-purchase and continue to deliver products that address current and future needs.” New additions to the Breville coffee accessory range include the Dosing Funnel 54 and the Puck Sucker which will help deliver a better in home experience.

“Australia is largely a milk-based coffee consumer with lattes and flat whites the biggest selling coffees so a quality milk solution is important. The Breville range of coffee machines delivers microfoam milk perfect for the coffee styles Australian consumers are looking for,” Kalos said.

Breville the Barista Express Impress

`

Intelligent Dosing with central grinds loading

` Assisted Tamping with a consistent tamp force and barista twist finish

` Precision Measurement auto corrects the next dose

` 25 grind settings for precise grind control and powerful steam wand for silky smooth milk

RRP: $1,199

“Coffee connoisseurs are also looking for well designed, aesthetically pleasing products which deliver consistent results and offer ease of use and simplicity. The new Breville Barista Express Impress with the Perfect Puck system delivers Intelligent Dosing with an Assisted Tamp feature to take the guesswork out of dosing and tamping and simplify the coffee making process.”

Breville’s marketing strategy remains focused on providing a positive in-store experience supported by online content to help consumers get the most out of their coffee machine.

On a final note, Kalos reaffirmed the strength of the coffee machine market, which has more than doubled in value over the last five years, accelerated by Covid lockdowns and expects the market to continue to grow as new consumers enter the market.

To cater to customers who prefer drinking tea, Breville has launched the AquaStation Hot, delivering filtered and hot filtered water at the touch of a button with a range of smart pre-sets and alerts to customise each cup of tea. Featuring Breville’s Active360 four-stage fast flow system, water is filtered at 1.3L per minute and the filters last three times longer for cleaner water with less waste. AR

Perfetto, from bean to cup.

“

JURA George Liakatos Managing Director

Jura has seen continued growth across the coffee category in the last 12 months with a shift towards premium products.

“At this stage there are no signs of things slowing down or consumers changing their spending habits towards other items,” George Liakatos said.

“With working from home becoming the norm among many workers, the requirements for a quality coffee in that environment is becoming more important. We are seeing more purchases and upgrades to premium models which is being driven by higher usage.”

Coffee quality remains the single most important factor when consumers are considering purchasing Jura’s products. “Expectations are high and we are constantly innovating and improving the coffee quality with each new release. In the last 12 months we released the Z10, which was a world first, producing both hot and cold coffee.

Jura Z10 Hot & Cold Automatic Coffee Machine

`

Prepares both hot and cold brew specialties at the touch of a button

` Double-speed 4.3-inch touch display and Blue Crystal Rotary Switch

`

Intuitive and easy to use thanks to the specialty selection menu and Artificial Intelligence

` Product Recognising Grinder (P.R.G.) recognises the chosen speciality to instantly and precisely adjusts the fineness of grind accordingly

RRP: $4,490

“The demand for this model has far exceeded our expectations and continues to perform strongly. We have also seen improvements in the grinder with all our models being upgraded to the Professional Aroma Grinder and our brewing technology.”

Looming inflationary pressures continue to cause concern, although the impact is yet to be fully felt in Australia so it is difficult to assess how the industry may be impacted as a whole in the shortterm, according to Liakatos.

“We remain cautiously optimistic that we can work through these challenges. The opportunities in expanding the premium segment remain our core focus. With the continued operating environment remaining unchanged we see potential in this segment. Our new releases in the next 12 months will continue to focus on this segment,” he said.

Since the pandemic, the customer pathway from consideration to purchase has changed dramatically and as a result Jura’s marketing strategy has had to evolve. “Our tactical execution has moved towards more digital channels with online behaviour playing a more significant role in the decision-making process. As we start operating in this ‘new normal’ environment, we expect to see consumers returning to physical experiences and we will continue our investments in store to capitalise on this.”

Liakatos urged retailers to remain cautiously confident that the market, at least in the immediate short-term, will remain buoyant.

“We know that we will experience some economic headwinds. However, according to our research the demand for premium products that enhance the ‘in-home’ experience will remain strong. We are planning for this growth even against the backdrop of supply chain disruptions.” AR

Coffee quality remains the single most important factor when consumers are considering purchasing Jura’s products.

”

SMEG

Luca Duarte

Product Manager – SDA

With many consumers participating in a hybrid work model, access to barista quality coffee at home is essential and has ignited the coffee category, according to Smeg’s Luca Duarte.

“Consumers are seeking a complete coffee experience with a premium machine and complementary products such as a grinder and milk frother, as well as accessories including insulated travel mugs, tamper and silicon mat, knock box and vacuum canister, proving popular among consumers,” he said.

The top priorities in the purchase consideration are ease of use, results and flavours, together with design. “Our bean to cup machine range has a simple push button panel, delivering a cup of coffee in seconds. The machines also utilise a direct grind system, ensuring freshly ground coffee is used at every extraction for more flavour.”

Smeg data shows the market continues to perform, despite economic headwinds. “As coffee prices at local cafés rise, consumers are realising that a domestic coffee machine can save money in the long run, which presents a great opportunity as more consumers enter the home café market.”

The Smeg team continues to create digital content to support the category, especially around maintenance and ease of use. “We have also returned to in-store demonstrations to provide first-hand experiences of results, as well as care and maintenance. Our point-of-sale material has also been strengthened to highlight consumer benefits and promotional offers, where appropriate.”

The coffee category remains a focus for Smeg small appliances with a strong product pipeline featuring award-winning design and innovative technology. AR Smeg Fully Automatic Bean to Cup Machine Black BCC02BLMAU

` Steam wand and 19 bar professional pressure

` Six coffee functions in two different strength settings

` Direct grind system with easy to remove brewing unit ` Matte black finish designed in Italy by deepdesign

RRP: $1,349

Miele CM 6360 MilkPerfection Coffee Machine

` Double Venturi system that adds two bursts of steam to increase the temperature of the milk and creating a light creamy texture

` Thanks to the AromaticSystem, the brew chamber expands when water flows in allowing the ground coffee to be mixed thoroughly with the water and the coffee aroma to unfold

` New OneTouch for Two function enabling two cups of coffee to be made simultaneously ` WiFi Conn@ct to control and monitor the coffee machine via Miele@ mobile app

RRP: $2,499

MIELE Joshua Hall Category Marketing Leader – Small Appliances

Miele has experienced an uptake in the coffee category over the last 12 months as people continue to work from home.

“With more businesses introducing a hybrid workplace model, and coffee being a huge part of most people's daily work routine, we’ve seen demand for good quality coffee machines as we’ve adapted to our new working lifestyles,” Joshua Hall said.

The most important aspect of the coffee machine is the ability to deliver fresh coffee, intense flavour and perfect results every time. “Miele achieves this through a range of features such as the AromaticSystem which has flavour-conserving grinding and intelligent brewing to achieve best possible results.”

Ease of use is another key feature consumers look for, especially with everyone living fastpaced lifestyles. “All Miele coffee machines automatically clean themselves after each use, so the consumer doesn’t need to.”

Sustainability is also important, which is why Miele’s coffee machine range includes an Eco Mode to conserve energy as the coffee machine does not heat up until just before the first beverage serving. “The Eco Mode is a freely selectable optional function and can be activated or deactivated via the settings.”

With increasing interest rates and an uncertain economic outlook, consumer confidence is slowly on the decline and people are spending less, which is a challenge for the entire industry, according to Hall. “However, the opportunity in this is that people are looking to save their money on cafe bought coffees, and instead wanting to make their own at home.”

Roger Federer

NEWELL BRANDS

Elena Pintado

Senior Marketing Manager – Home Appliances

Newell Brands’ Elena Pintado believes coffee trends, consumption and preferences are constantly evolving.

“Coffee enjoyed at home has heightened importance to consumers who are spending more time at home due to an increase in flexible working arrangements, general health caution or economic pressures that mean consumers are re-evaluating their out of home expenditure,” she said.

“From the coffee purists finessing their espresso art to the growing trend of iced coffee consumption in younger age groups, coffee is an important category to cater for all consumers. Our latest manual espresso machine, the Compact Barista is only 13.8cm wide – making it our most space efficient espresso machine to date.”

Newell Brands acknowledges that kitchens are becoming smaller and more compact, meaning some consumers want to upgrade to a café style machine but don’t have sufficient benchtop space.

“Our Sunbeam Compact Barista brings the café experience home. The slimline machine is compactly engineered to deliver precision and power, preset volumetric control pours just the right amount of coffee every time. The powerful steam wand creates silky milk for effortless latte art. At an RRP of $269, it will cater for households wanting café style coffee on a smaller budget.”

Sunbeam Iced Coffee Machine

` Easy three step process ` Brew iced coffee in under four minutes ` Integrated measuring system for consistent taste ` Personalise iced coffee with syrups, milks and cream

RRP: $89.95

“

The Sunbeam Iced Coffee Machine brews an iced coffee at home in under four minutes. The machine quickly cools concentrated, hot-brewed coffee over ice to deliver iced coffee that isn’t watered down.

”

Sunbeam is also launching the Iced Coffee Machine tailored to consumers who want to bring their out-of-home coffee consumption into the home and create iced coffee the way they like it, while saving money.

“The Sunbeam Iced Coffee Machine brews an iced coffee at home in under four minutes. The machine quickly cools concentrated, hot-brewed coffee over ice to deliver iced coffee that isn’t watered down. With an RRP of $89.95, it also comes with a 625mL reusable insulated tumbler with straw to take it on-the-go.”

While Australia’s favourite coffee is still the flat white or latte, Newell Brands is seeing younger coffee consumers preferring an iced based coffee and their consumption habits are reflecting this. “Iced coffee out-of-home consumption has seen huge growth in other markets across the world, and similarly now in Australia. Larger volume drinks and sweet additions, like syrups, cream and other toppings make this trend highly shareable on social media and one to cater for this coming summer,” Pintado said.

Sunbeam has continued to create engaging and informative, yet lighthearted digital content and invest in media channels with high reach and engagement to reach coffee consumers at the right time and place.

“We have continued our online barista classes for new purchasers of Sunbeam espresso machines and introduced Instagram Lives to our marketing plan in 2022. We have expanded our social media presence to TikTok and are engaging with influencers across all relevant social platforms. We continue to support in-store selling with point-of sale materials, including QR codes to directly link the shopper to demonstrable video content, which can also be used as a training tool for floor staff.”

AR

GLEN DIMPLEX Richard Banks Product & Marketing Coordinator

As some cafés and restaurants were forced to close or offer only takeaway service during lockdowns, consumers have had the option to purchase their own coffee machine, and the category has become a growth area for Morphy Richards.

“Consumers like to determine the strength of their coffee, be it with beans or grounds, and the ability to set a timer so that their coffee is waiting for them when they are ready for it. Morphy Richards filter coffee machines provide these functions with a keep warm feature and aesthetically pleasing design,” Richard Banks said.

Morphy Richards has observed a shift from capsule coffee machines to more traditional machines, which is a highly competitive market with many suppliers, so being able to offer an attractive, functional and easy to use coffee machine is critical.

“Through our research we have been able to plan to the needs and requests of consumers, with the data being used to build our strategy and stay agile due to the changes in how consumers shop. We will endeavour to have sufficient stock for our retailers to draw on and drive our premium brand forward.” AR

Philips 4300 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

EP4346/70

` Choice of eight coffee varieties

` LatteGo system delivers smooth milk froth and cleans in 15 seconds

`

Intuitive easy to use touch display to customise coffee and milk

` Produce up to 5,000 cups without descaling thanks to AquaClean

RRP: $1,199

PHILIPS DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Geoff Hannaford

Country Manager – Australia & New Zealand

Philips has seen strong sales of its fully automatic espresso machines during Covid and expects this trend to continue as people return to the office or engage in a hybrid working arrangement.

“Ease of use and the ability to have café quality coffee at home from bean to cup are the two most important factors consumers look for,” Geoff Hannaford said.

“Our fully automatic machines are easy to use and clean. The LatteGo milk system can be cleaned in just 15 seconds or put in the dishwasher. With a choice between eight coffees, including latte macchiato, households can customise their fresh-bean flavour, and flow smoothly from craving to cup.”

As cost of living continues to rise, consumers are making conscious decisions regarding their disposal income and coffee prices in local cafés are rising too, yet they still want their daily coffee fix. “Consumers can buy one of our Philips machines that can generate 20,000 cups of coffee with our 100% pure ceramic grinders.”

Morphy Richards Ascend Soft Gold Filtered Coffee Maker Black MRSGFC18B

`

12 cup or 1.8L capacity

`

Glass with hinged lid carafe

`

Brushed stainless steel with satin black finish

`

Thermostatic hotplate and keep warm for 40 minutes

RRP: $99.95

In 2021, Philips Domestic Appliances introduced new coffee machines into the market via retailer partners’ omni/offline channel. “However, it was a soft launch due to stock constraints across the world. Our digital marketing strategy was specifically targeted to build brand awareness and increase conversion rates.”

On a final note, Hannaford said: “Consumers are at the heart of our business. Our purpose is simple yet powerful – to help people turn their houses into homes. Our approach to innovation is centred around the consumer. The result is an extensive portfolio of desirable products, covering a broad price range. Increasingly, we are boldly leveraging digitisation on both our consumer products and our marketing.”

Handsticks, robotics, wet & dry drive floorcare sales

BY KYMBERLY MARTIN

Whilethe floorcare market has declined in volume, and revenue remains flat, average selling prices has grown in most segments, the latest GfK data showed. There has also been a strong uplift for robot types, up 70% in units, as well as a 20% increase for electrical mopping and wet & dry products. Overall floorcare units declined 6% but value grew 1%, for the year ending July 2022.

New technology such as voice assistants and mopping features are driving consumer demand for robotics, according to research by Ecovacs with consumers prepared to pay more for innovations in design, mapping technology and improved performance. Handstick sales have also shifted into high gear especially among 18 to 34-year-olds, Samsung insights revealed. Miele also reported high demand for handstick models as the ‘the stay-at-home’ trend continues to fuel demand for these appliances.

Dust, meet our most powerful vacuum cleaner.

The new Triflex HX2 is Miele’s most powerful yet, providing users with the unique flexibility of its predecessor with significantly increased suction power and improved user convenience.

Miele Triflex HX2 Cordless Vacuum

`

MIELE Joshua Hall Category Marketing Leader – Small Appliances

Overall, Miele’s floorcare category is still performing well off the back of the pandemic as consumers spend more time at home. “Consumers are opting to invest in high performing vacuum cleaners that are built for longevity, are simple to use and compact, and there is a growing demand for handstick cordless vacuums,” Joshua Hall said.

“Triflex sales are strong, with the new Triflex HX2 combining design, technology, performance and craftsmanship for effortless home cleaning and the premium quality our customers are accustomed to. This vacuum cleaner is Miele’s most powerful yet, providing users with the unique flexibility of its predecessor with significantly increased suction power and improved user convenience for effortless home cleaning.”

The key marketing focus is to make customers aware that Miele products are built to last, are of high performance and withstand the test of time. “We have been unwavering to our ‘Immer Besser – Forever Better’ philosophy and are proud to manufacture high quality German engineered products,” he said.

Clean

Innovative 3-in-1 function for deep cleaning, maximum reach and easy handling

`

HEPA filter removes 99.999% of fine dust particles

`

XXL floorhead cleans a larger surface area in less time

`

VARTA Lithium-Ion battery with up to 60 minutes runtime

RRP: $899

Miele also offers demonstration sessions at its Experience Centres for customers to try the products, as well as attend detailed workshops that explain appliance functions and features. These sessions are designed to help customers make the best appliance decision for their homes and lifestyle.

“At Miele, it is important to provide customers with lifelong support when they purchase an appliance from us, which gives them access to exclusive information, offers and team support. Miele life members also get a lifetime of exclusive benefits, as well as cooking inspiration through recipes created by some of Australia and New Zealand’s top culinary experts including Maggie Beer and Michael Meredith.”

Customise your

with Miele’s unique 3-in-1 design4

“

DKSH Darren Sharvell Brand Manager

Robotic and stick vacuum segments are delivering strong sales for DKSH in response to consumers looking for convenience. Stick vacuums equipped with removable rechargeable batteries have become popular as they add a lot of convenience, according to Darren Sharvell.

He attributes changes in socioeconomic influences, such as an increasing number of time poor households, advances in technology and increased income levels for driving robotic vacuum sales.

“Although there are several lower priced robotic vacuum cleaners on the market, the models with advanced technology tend to sell better, which is why robotic vacuum cleaners have yet to become a commodity product due to their higher price. An important factor fuelling growth for our robotic vacuums is the consumer preference for smart and innovative cleaners that are ‘set and forget’.

“Neato technology not only has a long battery running time, but the auto recharge and resume feature returns the vacuum to base to recharge, and once charged it will proceed to the programmed cleaning zone and does not miss anything as it uses the laser to map the room.”

Neato were consulted by NASA in relation to the original Mars Rover due to its advanced mapping technology and it was voted in the US as the best robotic vacuum for picking up pet hair on most surfaces.

Retail focused initiatives include POS stands that provide key callouts for consumers with a QR code for more product information. Display stands are model specific with changeable information inserts which can be updated and easily adapted to most shelving in-store.

Neato robotic vacuum cleaners are supported by a three-year warranty with a pick-up service for the first two years of the warranty period, and the third year on a back-to-base basis.

According to Sharvell, Neato robotics vacuum cleaners lead the industry in the key metrics that matter most to consumers – best dirt pick up, longest run time, widest brush, and biggest dirt bin.

“However, we believe there is always room for improvement, collaboration, and innovation," he said. AR

Neato D10 Robotic Cleaner

`

LiDAR LaserSmart mapping and navigation

` Large 27.9cm brush for picking up pet hair

` HEPA filters and 300-minute runtime

` 0.7L on-board dirt bin

RRP: $1,749

IXL HOME

Malcolm Russell General Manager Marketing

IXL is also reporting an increase in sales for robotic vacuum cleaners in the past 12 months, but conversely there has been sales slowdown for other floorcare categories. “This suggests a shift in perceptions that the evolution of robotic vacuums, in terms of efficacy, navigation, customer experience and overall performance is cutting through with consumers,” Malcolm Russell said. “As the robotic category within floorcare continues to grow, there are excellent opportunities for retailers to capitalise on this growth.”

Premium Roomba s9+ and Roomba j7+ models are selling well along with the Roomba j7+ Braava m6 robot mop, he said.

The company’s marketing strategy is to have iRobot through bricks and mortar, online only or a hybrid omni-channel approach. “This can be either via an in-store viewing and demonstration of the product or via quality online content. We will invest in brand awareness and tactical marketing activities, including, but not limited to TVC, paid search and display, in-store POS, premium displays and demonstrator activity, to assist with this message delivery.”

The Melbourne team has doubled in the last 18 months. A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) program will also be implemented in the coming months and forms part of the after sales communication, covering areas such as maintenance, trouble shooting and accessory options.

For peak selling periods like Black Friday and Christmas, iRobot will be driving brand awareness to consumers, with the Roomba j7+. For a limited time, there will be a special bundle price for Roomba i2 and Braava jet m6, online and in-store. AR

Braava jet m6 Robot Mop

Precision jet spray helps tackle sticky messes and kitchen grease

` Navigates around objects, cleaning hardwood, tile and stone ` vSLAM navigation recharges and resumes cleaning when battery is low

` Imprint Link technology cleans via a command to voice assistant or app RRP: $999

BOSCH Linda Drechsel Brand & Digital Manager – Consumer Products

“Cordless vacuum cleaners continue to gain popularity as consumers spend more time at home and appreciate appliances that make their life more convenient,” Linda Drechsel said.

There is also growing interest for multi-use handsticks as consumers become more familiar with the benefits of stick vacuums. The flexibility of having one vacuum cleaner which can be used to clean the whole house, different types of flooring as well as multiple surfaces is a strong value proposition, she said. “Ease of use and versatility are relevant purchase drivers alongside suction power and runtime.”

Included accessories for cleaning furniture or hard to reach spaces like crevices also make this segment attractive with consumers, she said.

While there continues to be increasing demand for cordless units, there is still a strong consumer base who prefer a traditional corded canister vacuum.

Bosch acknowledges that investing in a highquality vacuum cleaner is a big purchase decision, offering a 30-day money back guarantee on all Bosch vacuum cleaners until 31 December, 2022. In February 2023, Bosch will launch the Unlimited Serie 7 vacuum that features a 90-degree bendable FlexTube to make cleaning under furniture easier, integrated LED lights and an exchangeable 18V battery. AR

Bosch Unlimited Series 6 BCS61113AU

`

Lightweight at 2.3kg or 1.4kg as a handheld unit ` 30-minute maximum runtime can be extended with exchangeable battery sold separately ` 18V 2.5Ah battery compatible with many Bosch 18V power tools and gardening devices

` Includes accessories for cleaning floor to ceiling and the car RRP: $499

ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS

Mike Eagle Category Manager

Electrolux has seen an increase in the number of customers purchasing floorcare products online, Mike Eagle said.

“We value what consumers think about our products and are currently offering product owners the chance to win monthly prizes of $100 grocery vouchers and a major prize of $1,000 Westfield gift cards by leaving a review.”

Robotics continue to grow in volume and value although volume declined this year, compared to 2021, with an increase in average selling prices and more premium products that offered clean stations. While handstick is a mature market, volume and value growth is continuing similarly to the robotic category, he said.

“Our marketing approach is to be visible when a consumer is in the market for floorcare products and we pay attention to consumer search behaviour, focusing on delivering customers to the appropriate pages when they have a declared interest and intent through paid search.

“Getting consumers close to the shopping cart is also important to ensure they are delivered to the product pages on our retail partner pages as quickly as possible through the ‘Buy Online’ widget. This also helps to identify opportunities to improve the consumer experience by sharing relevant and engaging content with the intent of improving conversions,” he said.

“Electrolux will have an opportunity to launch into new product categories in 2023, enabling EHP floorcare to offer the complete cleaning solution.” AR

D10

LG ELECTRONICS

Shannon Tweedie Marketing Manager – Home Appliances

The premium segment of the handstick vacuum market continues to show strong growth. When it comes to cleaning products, consumers are looking for premium features that make the chore of vacuuming the house convenient, according to Shannon Tweedie.

“The vacuum cleaner has evolved over the years and handstick vacuums are now a popular choice for Australian chore-snackers,” she said. “The flexibility and convenience of a handstick vacuum is what makes the design attractive to consumers, whether it is for cleaning small messes or a full house clean.”

The LG CordZero All-in-One Tower handstick vacuum cleaner is a “gamechanger, addressing traditional bug bears of vacuuming including lacklustre battery life, misplacement of accessories and the hassle of manually emptying the dust bin”. It features a three-step filtration system and an auto-empty dustbin that removes vacuumed items from the dustbin and transfers it into the storage bag in the dock. Air then passes through two filters to ensure fine dust particles are removed.

LG CordZero All-in-one-Tower Handstick

`

We are continuing to focus on increasing our profile within the vacuum segment in Australia and this includes supporting retail partners with co-marketing activities. ”

Dustbin is automatically sucked into the charging station, and collected in the dust bag

` Kompressor lever compacts dust and hair into the dust container

`

ThinQ alerts to the filter and battery status, as well as run diagnosis

`

Dual PowerPack with interchangeable and rechargeable batteries up to 120 minutes run time

RRP: $1,699

“We are continuing to focus on increasing our profile within the vacuum segment in Australia and this includes supporting retail partners with co-marketing activities to drive consumers instore to experience the range.

“A key frustration of handstick vacuums has traditionally been underperforming battery power. Users can charge both the handstick vacuum and spare battery simultaneously, so they always have enough power to complete the chore.”

CordZero accessories cater for a range of flooring types, with the Power Drive mop nozzle that vacuums and mops simultaneously and the Power Drive nozzle for hard floor surfaces such as tiles and floorboards. The Power Drive Mini includes a rubber anti-tangle brush that picks up dust and pet hair from soft furnishings, while the Bedding Power Punch nozzle uses vibrations to remove dust without damaging the fabric, making it ideal for mattresses and sofas. AR

“

TTI Craig Knighton Category Marketing Manager

“Demand for floorcare appliances continues to grow in 2022 for Hoover and Vax brands and in all the categories we service,” Craig Knighton said. “Most businesses will cite the increase of online purchasing over the past 12 months, and it is no different at TTi.

“Our range of carpet and spot washers, across both brands, along with the effective cleaning solutions are performing incredibly well, with options for customers at all points of the purchasing decision, be it based on price, home size or feature set,” he said.

TTi recently launched a new range of high tech SmartWash Hoover carpet cleaners and ONEPWR cordless vacuum products through its direct-to-consumer channel. The company was pleased with the performance of the range, and how customers valued the opportunity to interact directly with the brand.

“We listen to the customer and integrate the feedback into our product design, services and offers. This purchasing behaviour and the positive feedback we have received about these products will nourish future product development.

“Our research has shown clear growth in customer awareness of maintaining a healthy home, so carpet washing is a major growth category for us. Healthy living and a healthy home go handin-hand and our customers are beginning to know that creating a healthy indoor environment is more than just removing the dust and visible dirt on the floor.”

Product packaging, in-store point of sale, omnichannel advertising, and retail staff training, is educating customers about the benefits of washing carpets regularly.

“At TTi we use many channels to reach our consumers where they shop and have evolved our long-form TVC strategy to also include highly scalable short form video and digital platform video. We have also invested significantly with in-store display with our retail partners as we know how important the final experience is at the point of purchase.” AR

McCulloch Deluxe Canister Steam Cleaner MC1385

` 1.89L water tank

` Two hours of continuous steam ` 6kg with adjustable and removable handle ` Carry handle doubles as storage for the steam nozzle

RRP: $399

Brand Manager

Consumers are prioritising home health and reducing waste in their homes in 2022 and want cleaning products and tools that are reusable, washable and durable. Consumers are also more mindful of chemicals they are bringing into their homes, especially the effects these products can have on children and pets, Kirsten Ewen said.

Hoover SmartWash Pet Automatic Carpet

Triggerless automatic cleaning technology, push forward to clean, pull back to dry Removable spot chaser pre-treat spray wand tackles set-in pet stains Powerful antimicrobial brush rolls and pet tools deliver a deep clean Auto mix precisely mixes and dispenses solution for optimal carpet washing and

“McCulloch steam cleaners don’t use chemicals, only water to steam clean and sanitise nearly every surface inside and outside the home, including floors. Not only does this save consumers money in the long term because they are no longer buying harsh chemicals for different cleaning tasks but simplifying the cleaning process and investing in creating a healthier and more mindful environment.”

The steam cleaners are built for multi-surface cleaning with up to 23 accessories included in the box. Both models come with a bristle brush mop head attachment and two mop pads. The bristle brush mop head attachment loosens set-in grime on floors. The traditional mop pad buffs and polishes tiles and textured floors, while the scrubbing mop pad lifts dirt from floors.

McCulloch takes an omnichannel approach when it comes to marketing. In the last 12 months it has joined TikTok, refreshed its digital advertising, invested more in social media, grown the email database and increased in-store support.

“In conjunction with this strategy our aftersales service is a top priority when it comes to maintaining customer relationships,” Ewen said.

“More Australians are learning about how they can harness the power of steam in their homes to simplify their cleaning routines, save them money, and help them remove chemicals from their home,” she said. AR

SAMSUNG

Andrew Wand Head of Home Appliances

Purchase behaviour in floorcare has remained relatively consistent over the past 12 months with stick vacuums reigning supreme as the vacuum style of choice, especially among 18 to 34-yearolds, Samsung’s Andrew Wand said. “Canister and barrel vacuums are still a popular second choice, with 75% of purchases still made in-store, with consumers preferring a touch-and-feel experience as part of their decision-making process.”

The consumer trend of wanting home appliances that reflect one’s personality and home décor while also being high performing, also remains consistent. “This consumer need is where our focus is at Samsung.”

Company vacuum insights suggest that around two in five Australians own a stick vacuum, making it the most popular, and highest performing floorcare product segment right now.

Stick vacuums such as the Samsung Bespoke Jet range, offer powerful suction, lightweight design, and portable versatility with interchangeable maneuverable attachment heads for specific flooring needs. The 2022 range has increased energy efficiencies, longer runtime and holds larger volumes of dust and dirt.

Hygiene has become front of mind for Australians, too, making attachments a big part of pre-purchase conversations.

“When it comes to purchasing a vacuum cleaner, the in-store retail experience is the perfect time to get ‘personal’. Retailers should ask consumers about their home décor, whether they have pets or allergies, and their floorcare habits, before chatting product performance,” he said. AR

Deebot Robotic Vacuum X1 OMNI

`

Empties the dustbin, refills water reservoir, cleans and dries mopping attachments

` Simultaneous vacuuming and advanced mopping

` Industry-first inbuilt ‘YIKO’ AI voice assistant

`

Powerful AIVI 3D and TrueMapping technology for obstacle avoidance and full clean

RRP: $2,499

ECOVACS Karen Powell Regional Director

According to Ecovacs research, retailers should be excited about this category as it presents a major opportunity. “Robotic vacuums are currently the most desired appliance for Australians aged 25 to 65, beating out TVs, air purifiers and coffee machines,” Karen Powell said. “One-third of those surveyed are hopeful of buying a robotic vacuum in the next 12 months, while two-thirds want one in the future.

“Now that consumers have confidence in the brand, they know the new technology works, and is designed well with high quality materials, it’s the hottest appliance in town. This is a category that has seen a lot of innovation and change in consumer behaviour in recent years,” she said.

Samsung Bespoke Jet Elite Extra Stick Vacuum VS20A95993B/SA

` Powerful cleaning with up to 210W suction power

` 120 minutes runtime with two 25.2V lithiumion batteries

`

Lightweight, triggerfree design at 2.7kg

` LED display shows available runtime and error alerts

RRP: $1,399

“Consumers have never been more open to adopting home robots. Over the last three years, Australians’ positivity towards robotic vacuums has skyrocketed from 27% to 59%, our market research revealed.”

This rise is not just because of the ‘WFH’ (work from home) phenomenon but is down to the amount of innovation in the category over this time. From suction to mopping and features that include voice assistants, object avoidance and mapping, consumers are seeing consistently that robotic vacuums can now genuinely replace traditional vacuuming.

“Over the past six months the premium end of the robotic vacuum category has grown for us, off the back of the introduction of industry-first technologies. Auto-empty stations continue to sell well, and if consumers aren’t already buying an integrated system many are adding this to their purchase because of the convenience it provides.”

Education is paramount to effectively meet consumers where they shop, with marketing tailored to different platforms and audiences. This includes social media, YouTube videos and messaging with key retail partners through their catalogue, digital and in-store POS experience. AR

DYSON Company Spokesperson

Maintaining a clean and healthy home remains a focal point for consumers, who continue to be concerned about the cleanliness of their homes as a result of Covid.

Year-on-year, there have been positive shifts in peoples’ cleaning habits, with more people vacuuming some commonly overlooked spaces including mattresses and sofas, according to the Dyson Global Dust Study 2022. It revealed that 95% of people are cleaning just as much, if not more, than they did last year to ensure their homes remain a clean and healthy space. However, 44% are only motivated to clean when their home is dusty, or when there is visible dust on the floor, compared to 33% in 2020.

Dyson’s latest vacuum technology, the Dyson V15 Detect with laser detect technology, identifies particles that can’t usually be seen, and the laser is precisely angled to make invisible dust visible on hard floors. A piezo sensor continuously sizes and counts dust particles, intelligently adapting the power when higher dust volumes are identified.

According to Dyson, the pandemic also saw a surge in pet ownership, and 57% of households across the world now own a pet, while one in two pet owners allow their pets to sleep on their beds. Pet hair can carry pollen and other allergens around the home, but Dyson research found that pet owners are likely to be unaware of the hidden impacts of their furry friends.

Dyson recently launched a series of precisionengineered cleaning attachments with de-tangling technology. The Dyson grooming kit includes a groom tool engineered to capture loose hair while brushing a pet with flexible bristles that self-clean instantly. Dyson’s de-tangling brush bar technology features hair removal vanes, precisely angled to help migrate all hair types directly into the cleaner head. A new scratch-free dusting brush is equipped with 8,100 ultrafine and densely packed polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) polymer filaments with self-cleaning capabilities.

Another recent release is the Awkward Gap tool attachment that cleans hard-to reach places around the home and car, that twists 22 degrees, the optimal angle for cleaning more challenging areas.

Dyson is expanding its customer care team in demo store service centres in Castle Hill and Taren Point NSW, as well as Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth to provide technical support, service and maintenance. AR

Dyson V15 Detect Complete

`

New brush bar technology with detangling comb ` Five-stage filtration captures 99.999% of particles

` Cyclone technology separates dust and dirt from all floor surfaces

` Laser dust detection illuminates dust particles with a precisely angled green laser

RRP: $1,549

BISSELL Chris Egan Managing Director

Bissell continues to experience steady and sustained purchase behaviour contributing to strong growth over the previous year, according to Chris Egan.

Bissell CrossWave Turbo Cordless

`

Vacuums and washes floors at the same time ` 36V lithium-ion battery delivers up to 30 minutes of cordless cleaning ` ` RRP: $749

“All product segments are performing well including vacuums, CrossWave hard surface cleaners, Revolution deep cleaners and SpotClean portable cleaners. Cleaning formula sales have grown at even higher rates than devices as our machine population market grows and retailers encourage multiple sales,” he said. “Generally, we consider the Bissell range of cleaners and washers are increasingly understood as the best way to get a deep clean beyond mere vacuums.”

The company has a strong focus on supporting its trade partners with training and product knowledge which complements the “assisted sell” retail environment in Australia, supported by in-store demonstrators and TV advertising.

Bissell has a local Melbourne-based consumer care function with a specialist offshore team. “We don’t outsource warranty and repair support as we prefer specialist team management of this.

“Bissell growth continues strongly supported by omnichannel marketing campaigns offering retail opportunities to grow the market segment and increase ASPs via bundled consumables,” Egan said. AR

OUTLOOK

A bumper season for air conditioning but fan sales fall flat

BY KYMBERLY MARTIN

Datafrom GfK shows the portable fans market suffered from successive cooler summers in recent years. These market conditions have affected all major fan types, with the exception being floor fans, which saw a small bounce-back, up 5% in units. Overall, the category declined 16% in units and 20% in value for the year ending July 2022.

With air quality a concern, the growing trend to air purification should come as no surprise, as responses in this feature show. Health authorities have started recommending air purifiers to reduce Covid transmission, and the Victorian government has publicly endorsed

air purifiers to improve ventilation and Covid safety in schools.

The recent Energy Consumers Behaviour Survey found that 11% of households across Australia already had one or more air purifier or dehumidifier, but ownership was higher in places that were inundated by bushfire for an extended period, such as the ACT. And about 80% of homes now have air conditioning.

For a global perspective on the market, Euromonitor International found habits formed during the peak of the pandemic are here to stay, like a heightened hygiene awareness since the onset of Covid. Certain products meeting specific consumer needs, such as appliances for new health routines are also in demand.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Bronte Split System

SRK80ZRA-W

`

Powerful 20m reach airflow in cooling mode

` Improved energy efficiency utilising R32 refrigerant

` Clean Air technology and Allergen Clear system

` Optional Wi-Fi control (sold separately)

RRP: N/A

MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES

Graham Hamilton Senior Advisor

Over the last 12 months the cooling category has remained strong for all air conditioning manufacturers. With a large portion of the community still working from home or engaging in a hybrid work model the company is still seeing a steady uptake from consumers looking to cool their homes in the summer months, Graham Hamilton said. “However with recent economic changes including interest rate rises and the general cost of living, consumers have become slightly more cautions with their spending.

The recognition that an air conditioner is an investment for your home is now more important than ever.”

MHIAA is continuing to improve and update the Wi-Fi capabilities of its units, recognising that there is increasing demand for connectivity with the smart home and to ensure products meet and exceed consumer demand.

To maintain stock levels, MHIAA is in continual communication with its factory in Thailand to ensure these are ready for the summer months. “We are closely monitoring port congestion to avoid any delays to consumers getting their stock on time.”

MHIAA split systems feature advanced Clean Air technology, a combination of several specialised systems and functions designed to work in synchronisation to help improve the indoor air quality in the home by removing allergens and odours and deactivating bacteria, mould and viruses.

“

MHIAA is continuing to improve and update the Wi-Fi capabilities of its units, recognising that there is increasing demand for connectivity.

”

According to Hamilton, indoor air quality is becoming increasingly important for all consumers across the country, not just because of the pandemic, but also in response to the growing emergence of hay fever and asthma sufferers. Clean Air technology removes airborne allergens such as pollen and dust by capturing them in a specially formulated Allergen Clear filter and neutralising them via the multi-stage Allergen Clear operation.

MHIAA continues to monitor all updated energy efficiency ratings and regulations, reporting this information back to its teams in Japan to ensure that products meet and exceed the minimum standards set in Australian regulation.

The hero product within the range is the Bronte unit, part of the award-winning range of split systems rated by CHOICE, Canstar Blue, Finder and ProductReview. AR

OLIMPIA SPLENDID

Peter Burnham Marketing & Product Development Manager

“Purchase behaviour has not changed dramatically over the last 12 months but sustained high temperatures will invariably see an increase in purchasing intentions, whereas cooler summers typically mean a slower rate of sales,” Peter Burnham said.

For summer 2022, Olimpia Splendid will have a range of cooling products with the latest technologies. Unico is a stylish original wall mount air conditioner with no external unit, which can be plugged directly into a wall socket, saving time and money on installation. In addition, there is a new portable air conditioner range featuring easy to use soft touch controls and the environmentally friendly R290 gas.

Air conditioning products have also been fitted with filtration to keep airborne pollutants at a minimum.

On the sustainability front, Olimpia Splendid selects industry leading technologies and components that provide maximum energy efficiency with minimum environmental impact during the product design phase.

“We do the best we can to forecast seasonal sales and with global stock shortages and have increased stock holdings in order to be in a better position to service the market.” AR

AirPro Portable Air Conditioner

` Designed in Italy

` Up to 3.5kW cooling capacity

` Environmentally friendly R290 gas ` Wi-Fi enabled

RRP: From $679 (Exclusive to The Good Guys)

Pinguino

Care4me Portable Air Conditioner PACEX130CST

`

3.3kW cooling power and dehumidifying function

`

Three-fan speed and silent technology

` MyEcoRealFeel technology

`

LED control panel with comfort light indicator

RRP: $1,299

DE’LONGHI Jong Bae Category Manager

Despite a wet and cooler summer, purchases within the cooling category were largely geared towards fans and portable air conditioners, according to De’Longhi. This comes from those working at, or spending more time at home, who are seeking cooling products to create a comfortable home environment. “Consumers have also maintained a significant interest in purchasing products online over the past 12 months which is as expected in the current climate,” Jong Bae said.

“We expect ‘work from home’ to remain a prominent practice and anticipate another wet summer going into 2023. Cooling stock is prepared for growth, especially for portable air conditioners that are effective in tackling humidity and subsequent mould that many Australians have struggled with in recent months,” Bae said.

The air filter and dehumidifying capabilities across all De’Longhi portable air conditioners are designed to improve air quality, eliminating excessive moisture from the air, protecting the home and creating a healthy environment.

De’Longhi introduced new technologies in 2022. This included Wi-Fi, controlled via the De’Longhi comfort app, compatible with Amazon, Alexa and Google Assistant and Geofencing into the new Pinguino Care4me portable air conditioner. Geofencing works by automatically switching on the appliance based on the users’ GPS location and allows consumers to return home to a cool and comfortable environment. Its product range also features Cool Surround technology. AR

CLEAN AIR TECHNOLOGY

DEODORISING FILTER ALLERGEN CLEAR FILTER®

SELF CLEAN OPERATION

ALLERGEN CLEAR OPERATION

ANTI-MICROBIAL FAN

MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC

Garth Hickey National Retail Sales Manager

One of the factors driving buyer behaviour change in the cooling category in the last 12 months has been the rising cost of living. As energy costs increase and start to bite into household budgets, consumers are actively thinking about both cooling and heating options, Garth Hickey said.

“Incentives such as home heating and cooling upgrade rebates towards new energy efficient reverse-cycle air conditioner from the Victorian government is enticing consumers to replace old gas, electric and wood-fire heating, or where there is no heating system.

“The replacement market continues to drive demand separately from the typical demand for new air conditioners in response to changes in the weather. The Mitsubishi Electric ‘Update Your Air’ campaign continues to promote our latest air conditioning models which are up to 47% more energy saving than some older models,” he said.

Consumers working from home are faced with the problem that their kitchen table, small bedroom or garage isn’t comfortable during summer or winter. “For this reason, we have seen a shift towards smaller capacity models such as the Mitsubishi Electric 2.5kW AP25, that is perfect for small spaces and carries a low noise rating, as loud as a ticking wristwatch, making it ideal for video calls.”

To support retail partners in maintaining supply, Mitsubishi Electric is working with its factories and developing longer windows for forecasting, concentrating on its key range with longer production runs.

Research published by Mitsubishi Electric in the Healthy Home Trends Report 2021 found 56% of Australians are concerned with the particles and hidden contaminants commonly found in the air in the home and workplaces. AR

Mitsubishi Electric MSZAP25VG(D)KIT

` 2.5 kW cooling / 3.2 kW heating capacity

` 19 dB(A) noise level with 18 dB(A) in heating mode

` Night mode reduces brightness and limits noise from the outdoor unit

` Vertical and horizontal vane design improves airflow direction

RRP: $1,713

HISENSE Kevin King Cabeliza National Communications Manager

Hisense has noticed growing interest across all categories, from electronics to whitegoods and air conditioning, as the popularity to upgrade the home rolls on.

“Specifically in the cooling category, we are seeing many Australians look for ways to enhance their home office spaces that are both comfortable and productive,” Kevin King Cabeliza said.

Over the past couple of years, there has been an increase in consumers’ appetite for products that use premium technology to circulate clean air in the home. Hisense responded to this launching the V Series split system reverse cycle air conditioners with Hi-Nano technology that removes airborne bacteria and limits the spread of pollutants. It has also added smart home functionality via its ConnectLife smart app, linking the air conditioners to a smart home ecosystem via Alexa or Google.

Hisense V Series Split System Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner HAWV9KR

` Hi-Nano technology eliminates airborne bacteria and inhibits pollutants

` Inverter technology and Eco mode reduces power consumption

` Self-cleaning technology extends the life of the unit

` ConnectLife app to view menus, modes and set temperatures

RRP: $999

Hisense is preparing for summer by utilising its global network of warehouses and retail partners to ensure customer needs are met, with a mission to “bring premium products at attainable price points to the Australian market”.

An example of this is the V Series which utilises 360-degree full DC inverter technology, combined with an inner air duct and advanced louver fin, for faster cooling and heating rates and saving on energy costs. Hisense V Series also comes with an Eco Mode function, that delivers 30% more energy savings than older conventional Hisense inverter technology. AR

“

Panasonic recently launched the Australian Clean Air Initiative, turning to its nanoe-X technology and a partnership with leading premium flex space provider, Hub Australia to champion the topic of indoor air quality.

”

PANASONIC Reggie Lam

Product Marketing Manager

Australian consumers usually purchased air conditioning solutions purely for their cooling capabilities, but more recently air quality has become a high priority in the wake of the pandemic and recent bushfires.

Air purification technology is now a heavily sought-after feature in most air conditioning solutions. With a rise in demand for smart home features, Australian consumers are prioritising appliances that adapt and interact with different technological devices via Wi-Fi connectivity in the household, according to Panasonic.

“Australians want to create a comfortable and clean-living environment, and cooling systems can deliver that in homes of all sizes during the summer months,” Reggie Lam said.

“We have already seen high demand for our latest Z Series reverse cycle, R32 wall split systems in the back end of 2021, and will have additional units arriving in Australia throughout 2022.”

The air conditioning market is constantly evolving, with large technological strides to enhance the comfort, efficiency and ease of use for consumers, and their changing needs. Panasonic’s unique nanoe-X technology has added to the already high standard of air conditioning solutions in the market, he said. “It is a feature backed by 25 years of dedicated research and development and the latest generation is proven by more than 140 independent laboratory tests across a range of use cases.”

Panasonic recently launched the Australian Clean Air Initiative, turning to its nanoe-X technology and a partnership with leading premium flex space provider, Hub Australia to champion the topic of indoor air quality and facilitate a new way for workers to return to the office.

As cost-of-living pressures become increasingly prevalent, many Australians have begun to take conservative approaches to their spending and one of Panasonic’s guiding principles is environmental sustainability.

Panasonic’s wall split system uses R32 refrigerant which delivers improved energy efficiency and has a lower global warming potential (GWP) than previously used refrigerant gasses. The Comfort Cloud app offers users the ability to monitor and manage their air conditioning and track energy consumption. AR

Panasonic Deluxe Reverse Cycle Split System

CS/CU-Z25XKR

`

nanoe-X 24-hour air purifying system neutralises indoor pollutants with or without cooling or heating in operation

` In-built Wi-Fi supports voice control via Google Assistant or Alexa devices

` Compact design

` Seven models with capacities ranging from 2.5kW to 8.0kW

RRP: $1,379

GLEN DIMPLEX

Chris Carson

Marketing Specialist – Seasonal, SDA & Flame

According to Glen Dimplex, there has been a rise in demand in the cooling category, which can largely be attributed to a further need for comfort due to consumers being mostly stuck inside for the last couple of years, Chris Carson said.

The company is bringing various multi-function products to market in 2022, that can be used year-round, and provide an efficient option for consumers to not only cool, but heat, humidify and purify their homes.

These include, but are not limited to, Heat + Cool and Humidifying tower fans, Heat + Cool and Purifying tower fans and Heat + Cool air circulators.

“Our air conditioners have always carried dehumidification capacity, and we have had air circulators in our range for a while now. Multifunction air treatment products are a focus for us moving forward, so the consumer is getting multiple functions and features and only needing one product,” she said.

The company is planning for the summer, allowing for longer lead times and shipping delays, and ordering well ahead of time. To decrease some of the dependency on weather, it is offering its year-round products, such as the Heat + Cool air circulators, as well as split systems and window box air conditioners.

“From a product and manufacturing perspective, when designing new products, we consider the environment and place a large emphasis on sustainability. We are making conscious efforts to ensure our product packaging remains sustainable and are always looking for ways to improve on this,” Carson said. AR

Omega Altise Aura Fan OP125B

` Energy efficient 30W DC motor

` Six fan speeds

` 80-degree oscillation

`

Available in four colours

RRP: $349

SHRIRO

Bruce Elder

National Sales Manager

The emergence of less defined seasons over the past few years has given rise to more people choosing products that cater for all seasons.

“But the product needs to offer good design and complement the room’s interior, rather than just be functional,” Shriro’s Bruce Elder said.

“As we prepare for summer, we consider the stock-on-hand from our retail partners, product performance from the previous season, predicted seasonal forecasts, consumer trends and category growth opportunities. It is a fine balance every season to ensure we order enough stock, so we do not sell out too early and miss sales opportunities, or order too much, resulting in remaining inventory.”

Omega Altise recently added the Dual Heat n Cool ceramic tower, a bladeless fan and reverse cycle portable air conditioners to its lineup, in response to consumer and retailer demand for high indoor air quality and is releasing a range of dehumidifiers this season.

Dimplex Air Circulator with Purifier DCACP23

`

Vortex fan blade for maximum air movement

`

HEPA 13 filter plus plasma purification

`

Brushless DC motor

` Quiet operation at 55dB(A)

RRP: $299.95

On the back of the pandemic and changing weather conditions, people have become more aware of the benefits of removing excess moisture in the air of their homes to reduce the risk of mould issues.

“We highlight the dehumidifier function within our portable air conditioner range at point of sale and in marketing material are developing air treatment in our future product range,” he said.

Energy efficiency remains a significant consideration when it comes to the design and sourcing of products. AR

Fujitsu General Lifestyle Wall Mounted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner

ASTGO9KMTC

` Improved air quality control with applecatechin filter

` Energy efficiency with human sensor, economy mode and weekly timers

` Modes to suit all preferences including quiet and powerful modes

` Smart home compatible with anywAir technology

RRP: $1,869

FUJITSU GENERAL

George Tsiotras National Retail Manager

While there are always people whose purchase behaviour is impacted by the heat during warmer months, this seasonal motivation is being overshadowed by the effects of the pandemic, extreme varying climate conditions and unpredictable weather patterns, according to Fujitsu General.

People are staying home more and experiencing different temperatures depending on where they live and as a result, purchasing behaviour is influenced by ‘12 month’ logic.

“Rather than looking for a one-off seasonal product just to keep them cool in warmer months, people are looking for an all-round solution that can heat, cool and manage humidity at the touch of a button. Purchasing has become less about reactive decisions and more about choosing something that will maintain comfort and lifestyle convenience for the long term, no matter the temperature or conditions outside,” George Tsiotras said.

Fujitsu General is constantly developing, reviewing and improving its technology to better suit the needs of the Australian market. An example is the anywAiR technology WiFi adaptor, which plugs easily into a range of compatible Fujitsu General air conditioners including the wall mounted Lifestyle Range (KMTC) indoor unit, enabling Wi-Fi control of the air conditioner.

“Our smart technology is not only suitable for new systems but is also compatible with air conditioning systems up to 10 years old operating a wireless remote control with infrared technology.

“Our main priority is to deliver an experience that doesn’t just end with the purchase of an air conditioner. By purchasing Fujitsu General products, you get the whole experience, with a five-year warranty and after-sales assistance.”

To tailor responses to the current market, the company draws on a range of sources such as climate forecasts, historical data and seasonal promotion outcomes to compare with recent market trends.

Fujitsu General speaks to retailers, installers and customers to learn about their lifestyles, spending habits, comfort needs and challenges, as well as feedback from recent experiences with products and services. “Their insight is not only valuable but essential.”

Fujitsu General continues to focus on lowering the global warming potential of its products. Refrigerants play a vital role in how an air conditioner works and most Fujitsu air conditioners under 9kW are now available using R32 refrigerant which has a 67% lower ‘Global Warming Potential Factor’ whilst still maintaining unit performance. Reverse cycle systems include advanced energy management features like the inbuilt human sensor that detects people movement and switches into energy saving mode when no motion is detected for 20 minutes, resuming when motion is redetected. AR

TCL

Martin Patience

Business Manager – Air Conditioning

Purchase behaviour has been very interesting over the last 12 months, Martin Patience said. “After a busy period with Covid lockdowns stimulating growth in retail and air conditioning sales, 2021 was a lot more challenging with supply chain and logistics issues, along with increases in materials costs pushing pricing to market up. La Nina weather patterns also contributed to a mild and wet summer and autumn in Australia, which slowed air conditioner sales,” he said.

“TCL’s air conditioning range is being re-released into several markets and we are receiving positive feedback from customers. We have set some aggressive sales targets to achieve substantial growth and market share.”

TCL Electronics has brought several innovations to market including smart connectivity using Google Assistant and Alexa, along with Wi-Fi connectivity straight out of the box for remote control and operation and a unique air vane design that slows down airflow to reduce drafts.

“We have several technologies that improve indoor air quality. For example, our dust filter is located at the top of the indoor unit for easy removal without opening any panels.” TCL also has additional filter options that can reduce bacteria, odours, and allergies for cleaner, healthier air.

“With the supply chain challenges mostly behind us, our factories are gearing up again for full production and we are not expecting any supply issues.

“Continuous research and development enable us to deliver innovative, energy efficient technologies.” AR

TECO

Trevor Francis

National Business Development Manager –Air Conditioning

The last 12 months has been strong for TECO air conditioning bumped up by Covid restrictions. Purification in air conditioning is now high on a consumer’s purchasing agenda along with energy efficiency, according to Trevor Francis.

TCL T-Pro Series Air Conditioners

` Connectivity with smart home devices

` Self-cleaning function and advanced filtration for improved indoor air quality

` Smart Inverter technology

` Gentle breeze technology

RRP: $799

“The ever-increasing cost of energy supply means getting the message across as to how much more efficient the current air conditioning split product is compared to older units is definitely boosting the replacement market,” he said. “Consumers are also realising how much more efficient air conditioning units are in heating mode, rather than using other methods of heating.”

TECO’s range of window/wall units and portables with silver ION filtration system as standard for air purification along with Wi-Fi control have been well received in the market. “New TECO Skinny air conditioners carry UV-C light sterilisation, a highly efficient form of sterilisation.”

The company is adding a 3.2kW Skinny model in late October and new inverter portables in November. There will also be new compact indoor models added to the Platinum 3D series to suit the reduction in wall space in homes and units.

“As always, we order plenty of stock for our resellers although everyone is experiencing some delayed arrivals due to both factory production and shipping delays.” AR

TECO 3D Series Platinum Reverse Cycle Split System

`

Ultra-high efficiency with 2.6kW cooling/2.9kW heating

`

High density PM2.5 filtration

`

Gold Fin protection on outdoor and indoor units

` Low noise levels

RRP: $1,369

MILNERS

Kirsten Ewen Brand Manager

People want to invest in quality that lasts, both to save money and to be more environmentally friendly, according to Milners. “With rising electricity costs, interest rate rises and inflation, energy efficiency and quality are key factors in consumers’ minds when purchasing new appliances for their home,” Kirsten Ewen said. “Consumers are becoming more mindful of the type of home they want to create and the environmental footprint they leave behind.”

With retro and vintage trends driving consumers towards investing in fashion, objects and cultures of the past, people are turning to pieces and appliances that are not only functional, but inspire nostalgia too, she said.

The Vornado VFAN gives a nod to these trends, inspired from the iconic 1945 Vornado fan metal construction and authentic styling recreates the classic design for look and function to blend perfectly with a room. The VFAN continues the Vornado family legacy of delivering unparalleled whole room air circulation with its signature Vortex Action.

Vornado VFAN Vintage Air Circulator

“Vornado air circulators can be used year-round so although sales peak in summer, we do have a steady flow of sales all year. Stock is delivered from March to August to ensure we are ready for opening orders in September. We work closely with retailers 12 months in advance of summer and this has meant we have avoided the freight issues other suppliers experienced.”

Improving the indoor air quality of Australian homes has always been a priority as there are different factors that can affect air quality in a home. Generating air circulation in a space with air circulators helps to improve indoor air quality and eliminate stagnant air in a space where opening the doors and windows isn’t an option, she said.

Unlike typical fans, the Vornado air circulator creates whole room circulation using an airflow phenomenon called ‘Vortex Action’, constantly circulating the air in the room.

The Vornado Energy Smart collection was expanded last season with the addition of two new models, the Vornado 6303DC Energy Smart medium air circulator, and the Vornado 6803DC Energy Smart medium pedestal air circulator. AR

CDB GROUP John Whittaker Business Manager – Heating & Cooling

With the impact of Covid effecting how and where we work, there has been an uptake around portable, ‘work from home’ products, according to John Whittaker.

“Customers have also been more willing to spend more, seeking increased features and value for money. Across the seasonal category in general we see health and wellness, and particularly air purification, as a growing trend,” he said.

Recent weather driven events have led to increased demand for mould prevention, moisture-reducing and air circulation solutions and dehumidifiers present an ideal solution for consumers and an area with huge demand.

“Not only are we integrating air purification technology into existing and new products, we are also looking at educating customers on the benefits of air circulation. Regulating air flow in your home also has positive impact on health and wellbeing and helps to control household temperature.”

Goldair will be adding several models to its smart home range this season. This includes UVC and HEPA air purification to the new 3-in-1 Bladeless Heating, Cooling, Air Purifying Tower Fan Heater, with dual heating and cooling modes, while the HEPA filter and UVC purification rids the air of unwanted dust and allergens.

“We have had many years of experience around seasonal stock flow, and retailer specific executions, and you are never going to get it 100% right, but that’s the nature of the business. Each season we closely align with our partner retailers on forecasting and stock flow plans. It’s no surprise that being prepared early in terms of stock availability allows you to pivot as required in season. Retailers that execute early with stock depth will reap the rewards as the season progresses.”

Customer buying guides feature estimated costs on running Goldair ranges with tips on choosing a suitable product for customers’ space requirements. Goldair also aims to have fully recyclable packaging across its cooling range in the near future. AR

Goldair Platinum 40cm Pedestal Fan with Wi-Fi GPPF340

Ultra- quiet at 39dB(A)

Tilt and height adjustable and oscillation

Remote control

Timer function

RRP: $149.95

DYSON Company Spokesperson

With soaring inflation pushing up the cost of living, consideration around purchasing decisions is more important than ever, as well as seeking products that are energy efficient, multifunctional and built to last. It is no longer air temperature people are concerned about, but the quality and cleanliness of the air they breathe.

Dyson Purifier

Cool Autoreact

` Whole-machine

HEPA filtration

`

Senses and reports for automatic air purification

`

Diffused mode purifies with the cooling effect

` Engineered to be 20% quieter

RRP: $799

Air pollution is a global problem and the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 9 in 10 people globally breathe air that exceeds WHO guideline pollutant limits. While NO 2 pollution in cities decreased during Covid, levels have quickly returned to normal, or exceeded pre-pandemic levels across many global cities.

According to a Dyson spokesperson, purifiers that aren’t properly sealed can leak pollutants with the Dyson Purifier Cool Autoreact, engineered to tackles this problem, pioneering new fullmachine HEPA H13 filtration to ensure no dirty air bypasses the filter. It is designed to capture ultrafine dust and allergens as well as bacteria and mould spores while automatically purifying the whole room. Airflow improvements make it 20% quieter without any compromise on purification performance.

The company recently announced details of the Dyson Zone, the first wearable purifier that combines purification with high fidelity audio. It captures city pollution including gas, allergens and particulate matter and purifies the air breathed on the move. Unlike face masks, it delivers a plume of fresh air without touching the face, using high-performance filters and two miniaturised air pumps. Full product specification and further details on availability will be announced in coming months.

Dyson’s purifier fans are tested using Dyson’s unique POLAR test method to ensure they are capable of whole-room purification in real-home settings. The industry standard CADR method is conducted for 20 minutes in a small chamber, tracking just the speed of filtration, rather than the quality. Dyson’s POLAR test is based on a larger room size, and nine different sensors continually collect air quality data, ensuring the purified air is evenly distributed to every corner of the room. AR

Optimum food storage and energy efficiency are a must

BY EMILY BENCIC

Ongoing

remote working conditions are supporting demand for larger capacity appliances and more convenient cold storage solutions, driving increased demand for four-door combinations and bottom freezer formats, Euromonitor data has shown.

Energy efficiency remains a top priority for consumers, alongside design as dark finishes gain popularity with black stainless and matte black finishes continuing to shape the market.

Australian households spend an average of $1,161 on a new refrigerator, according to Canstar Blue research. However, one in 10 (11%) survey respondents wish they had spent more on a better quality fridge. When asked about the driving factors in their purchase decision, 31% indicated price was most important, followed by size (19%), capacity and storage (16%) and energy efficiency (12%).

“

In addition to a seamless aesthetic, consumers are looking for an easy clean, hygienic appliance. Smeg’s fridge features an anti-bacterial gasket which prevents growth of bacteria and micro-organisms.

SMEG

Leon Wolf

Head of Product

Demand for integrated refrigeration is strong with consumers seeking a seamless kitchen aesthetic that complements their dining and living areas, according to Smeg’s Leon Wolf.

“At the same time, demand for side-by-side integrated fridge and freezer installation is popular with large households. An emphasis on storage of fresh produce to minimise waste has created an increased need for humidity-controlled crispers to retain freshness and flavour for longer,” he said.

In addition to a seamless aesthetic, consumers are looking for an easy clean, hygienic appliance. Smeg’s fridge features an anti-bacterial gasket which prevents growth of bacteria and microorganisms. “Ease of use is also important with premium quality safety glass shelves in the fridge and sturdy drawers in the freezer.”

From a marketing perspective, Smeg continues to largely rely on digital advertising to demonstrate the benefits of its integrated refrigeration collection.

As for sales training, Smeg sees the benefits of visiting stores for face-to-face training but continues to invest in its e-learning interactive platform with gamified modules for time-poor retail staff. “With quick turnaround times from training creation to delivery, it has become an integral element of the learning journey. It is also an invaluable library asset with product and technical resources, as well as promotion information.” AR

Smeg Fully Integrated Fridge/Freezer

SABI256BM

`

Turbo cooling fan

` Electronic touch display

`

Reversible door hinges

`

Anti-bacterial gasket and easy clean safety shelves

RRP: $2,990

Electrolux 609L

UltimateTaste

900 French Door Refrigerator

EQE6870BA

`

TasteSealFlex convertible compartment adapts to the temperature required

`

TasteLockAuto crispers with automatic humidity control maintain the right humidity levels

`

ELECTROLUX

Radhika Menon

Category Manager – Food Preservation & Wine

Electrolux continues to experience strong demand in the refrigeration category as consumer preferences shift towards subsegments such as multidoor and quad door configurations.

“Consumers are more focused on sustainability, energy conservation and recyclability,” Radhika Menon said.

“Refrigerators that help preserve food freshness and flavour, deliver flexibility for entertaining and everyday functions, as well as the convenience of ice and water dispensers, are highly desirable.”

When asked about managing stock, Electrolux continues to ensure regular and constant communication with customers and factories, being transparent and solution focused. “Ensuring the correct mix of required components for our product mix is also crucial.”

As for the evolution of the company’s marketing strategy, making the online experience more seamless and informative was a key focus.

“We added more videos that showcase our product features and benefits across more digital channels, as well as ‘how-to’ videos to make usage easier. We pay a lot of attention to consumer online search behaviour, focusing on delivering customers to the appropriate pages when they have shown interest and intent through paid search,” Menon said.

Electrolux is currently revamping its approach to training and developing shorter and sharper training videos. “These videos are filmed in a vertical format, making them easier for sales staff to consume on their mobile devices and showcase key product features.” AR

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TwinTech Cooling offers two independent cooling systems to optimise humidity levels

Wi-Fi connectivity via the Electrolux Life app remotely monitors and adjusts the fridge temperature

RRP: $5,299

HISENSE Nicholas Peters Head of Marketing

Australians are more energy conscious, according to Hisense’s Nicholas Peters, and in line with this demand, the company recently launched Australia’s highest energy star rated fridge with 7-stars.

“This product strikes a balance between style and efficiency, giving environmentally conscious consumers the benefit of sleek aesthetic and advanced energy saving measures,” Peters said.

The refrigerator is equipped with technology that works cohesively to optimise efficiency, helping save both energy and money. This includes Hisense’s Inverter Motor technology which ensures a more stable temperature inside the fridge, combined with Hisense’s Metal Tech Cooling capabilities, to achieve a lower energy consumption than competitive offerings.

Hisense is committed to working closely with its suppliers to ensure a steady supply of product to meet customer demand. “While supply chain issues have been a challenge, we are supported by a global network of warehouses and retail partners that ensure customer needs are met.”

Hisense 417L Bottom Mount Refrigerator

The company’s marketing strategy is centred around delivering innovative, premium products. Whether customer communication is digital or in-store, messaging is universal and easy to understand. “This helps us to ensure every interaction is seamless and well-informed.”

Hisense recently appointed renovation and home improvement expert, Barry Du Bois, as its brand ambassador. “The partnership will underpin a content series educating Australians on how to navigate home appliances and technologies across refrigeration, laundry, dishwashing, TVs, soundbars and air conditioning. AR

SEAMLESS INTEGRATION

Smeg’s sleek design with advanced air circulation technology will prevent waste and retain freshness and flavour for longer

“

The company’s focus is on larger capacity fridges and in the last 12 months, the Mitsubishi Electric L4 series French Door models were upgraded with a non-plumbed automatic ice maker.

”

MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC

Garth Hickey

National Retail Sales Manager

The French Door refrigerator market continues to grow, particularly in larger capacity segments, according to Mitsubishi Electric’s Garth Hickey.

“With the rising cost of living having a negative impact on household budgets, customers are increasingly looking at energy consumption values when replacing their fridge. This is one of the reasons customers are considering the Mitsubishi Electric 4.5-star energy rated 458L and 505L top mount fridges,” he said.

With the kitchen being the heart of the home, a fridge needs to not only be functional and meet storage needs but look good.

“The Mitsubishi Electric WX series multi drawer models offer different compartments that encourage users to get organised with storage. The internal layout with drawers for the freezer, vegetable crisper and ice drawer are practical on a day-to-day basis. The glass finish on many of our models make the appearance solid and smooth and blend in with many kitchen designs.”

To address supply chain issues, Mitsubishi Electric is in daily correspondence with factories and working with them to provide longer lead times so they can have longer production runs. “The priority is to build up extra stock of key models, particularly those that are ranged with our retail partners. The factories will airfreight some components from other suppliers to speed up production and delivery to Australia.”

Electric 635L French Door Refrigerator MR-LA635ER

Vegetable crisper includes humidity control

Multi airflow system efficiently cools in hard-to-cool places

Glass door finish is easy to clean and presents a luxurious finish

External LED control panel for access to temperature and mode functions

“Social and digital marketing campaigns continue to promote our French Door fridges. We have also installed new point of sale in stores to explain product features and benefits. Mitsubishi Electric has been recognised with a Choice Award for Best Fridge Brand, which has featured in marketing resources,” Hickey said.

To support its retail partners, Mitsubishi Electric is switching from online to face-to-face product training. “It’s important that new retail staff are trained about the latest features and benefits so they can assist customers find the perfect fridge.”

AR

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Panasonic’s unique top mount compressor design expands freezer capacity

`

Prime Freeze with Rapid Freezing freezes food five times faster than a standard freezer

`

Fresh Safe with automatic moisture control filter provides optimal fruit and vegetable storage

`

Panasonic nanoe-X technology inhibits up to 99.99% of bacteria and suppresses odours

RRP: $5,299

PANASONIC

Ginger Yu

Product Marketing Manager – Appliances

The number one consideration when purchasing a refrigerator is choosing a reliable and trusted brand, while the key pain point is not having enough freezer space, according to recent Panasonic market research.

The research also found that 44% struggle to keep fruit and vegetables fresh and 36% said the energy rating was important.

“Panasonic has launched a new premium Prime+ Edition refrigerator range that can fulfil these key consumer needs. Its unique top mount compressor design offers the largest freezer size for comparative competitor models by over 40 litres,” Ginger Yu said.

“All models include Panasonic’s Prime Fresh technology. The ‘soft freeze’ function in the Prime Fresh drawer locks in nutrients, flavour, suppresses oxidation and extends the freshness of food with no need to defrost. In addition, the flexibility of temperature adjustment from -5˚C to 4˚C suits busy lifestyle and entertainment needs.”

Panasonic has launched a new marketing campaign, Recommended by Food, to promote its refrigerator technology in a fun and innovative way that is easy for consumers to understand.

“The premise behind the campaign is that food recommends Panasonic fridges because they feel fresher, last longer, and make everyday life more convenient. The creative is being distributed across a wide range of channels including in-store execution with key retailers through brochures and point of sale,” Yu said.

Panasonic’s partnership with Australian cook and publisher, Marion Grasby highlights the capabilities of the company’s entire range of kitchen appliances, including refrigerators for the first time in 2022. AR

Miele Integrated Fridge/Freezer KFNS 77795 D

`

5.5-star energy rating

` Convenient glass

FlexiTray can be rotated 180 degrees

` DynaCool ensures a uniform temperature throughout the entire unit

`

PerfectFresh Active allows food to be stored for longer than in a conventional refrigerator compartment

RRP: $5,999

MIELE Melissa Taylor

Category Marketing Manager –Laundry & Cooling

Miele has noticed a shift in consumer purchase behaviour in recent months, with customers looking for products that are low in energy consumption and reliable for keeping their food fresh.

“With the increased cost of food, it is important to have a refrigerator that will keep ingredients not only fresh, but keep them for as long as possible to reduce food wastage,” Melissa Taylor said.

“Our PerfectFresh humidity zone is ideal for extending the lifetime of certain products for up to five times longer than normal refrigerators, which also allows for vitamins, minerals and freshness to be retained for longer.”

Miele’s overall business strategy is largely focused on sustainability and longevity, sharing the benefits of Miele refrigeration appliances. “We highlight energy and food-saving features, including PerfectFresh and LED Lighting that offers a more energy-efficient lighting solution compared to standard refrigeration light bulbs.”

With so many factors impacting supply chain and stock levels, including global issues of manufacturing and shipping, consumers are more understanding of the volatile environment and willing to wait for the right product to suit their needs. “Ultimately, it’s about communication and being honest and realistic.”

AR

LG ELECTRONICS

Shannon Tweedie Marketing Manager – Home Appliances

Australians have learned to embrace the home as a space to entertain and create, rediscovering their love for home cooked meals and gathering around the dinner table, LG Electronics’ Shannon Tweedie said.

“The latest LG French Door fridge range is a home entertainer’s delight, thanks to the LG Craft Ice Maker, which automatically creates slow-melting round ice balls, ideal for cocktails and specialty drinks. Available in three models, the new line-up of French Door fridges puts convenience and sophistication at the forefront with features such as InstaView Door-in-Door and an internal venting system.”

Other features important to consumers are an expansive interior and clever storage options that provide more freedom to store fresh and frozen food in a variety of arrangements. “Whether it is the retractable shelf to make room for tall bottles and jugs or using the adjustable moving basket to reconfigure storage in the door, users no longer need to compromise on space when entertaining at home.”

The new LG French Door refrigerator range also sports existing features that work together to prolong food freshness, including the LG InstaView Door-in-Door feature. With two quick knocks, InstaView illuminates the glass panel to see inside, while the Door-in-Door compartment allows access to snacks and beverages without needing to open the door.

LG continues to utilise industry leading forecasting to minimise wait times. “We continue to work with our overseas factories and retailers to help meet demand and are exploring new shipping lines and routes to reduce the time it takes for our retail partners to receive our products.”

LG 637L Matte Black French Door Refrigerator

` InstaView Door-in-Door provides easy access to snacks and beverages without opening the door

` Remotely adjust fridge settings from the ThinQ app via a compatible smartphone

` Craft ice maker automatically creates slow-melting round ice balls for cocktails and speciality drinks

` Strategically positioned traditional rear air vents combine with Door Cooling outlets to effectively surround food with cool air from multiple directions

RRP: $5,999

For the second half of the year, LG has executed a comprehensive marketing campaign for its refrigeration range, which has catered to online and in-person customers, covering the benefits of the technology.

“We are providing consistent digital support for new and existing products, particularly focusing on our social media platforms to build awareness. In addition, we have launched new television commercials and digital brand campaigns to promote the home appliance product categories, including online banners for targeted advertising,” Tweedie said.

Since the easing of Covid restrictions, LG has put an increased focus on in-person and face-to-face training with its executive team and at store level. “Our dedicated training team has also executed large scale roadshows and we have developed live online training sessions.” AR

The new line-up of French Door fridges puts convenience and sophistication at the forefront with features such as InstaView Door-in-Door and an internal venting system.

”

SAMSUNG Andrew Wand Head of Home Appliances

‘Necessary replacement’ is the key purchase motivator for Australians in the market for a new refrigerator in 2022, with Samsung Path to Purchase research suggesting that more than onethird of consumers looking for a new fridge are out to replace their current model which they believe is broken, faulty, or simply getting too old.

“Australians with children looking to replace their refrigerator are likely to be in the market for a side-by-side or French Door fridge and have a higher budget to attain a larger capacity model. They are also more likely to conduct research online before visiting a retail store to interact with products and clarify information with staff before making a purchase,” Andrew Wand said.

“Australians without children tend to invest less into refrigeration, be in the market for bottommount solutions, and find online shopping platforms fast and convenient to compare information before making an online purchase.”

The need for more capacity is the key driver for those in the market for a new refrigerator, followed by features such as an autofill jug, water dispenser, ice maker, and internet connectivity. “We’re also seeing Australians gravitate towards refrigerators with better energy efficiency ratings and improved aesthetics in their home space.”

Samsung is responding to these needs with the award-winning Bespoke home appliance range extending to refrigerators. Bespoke refrigerators will be available in classic single-door fridge or freezer, bottom mount fridge and four-door formats with the ability to integrate additional models to meet unique capacity needs.

Bespoke refrigerators will be available in seven colours and two types of finishes, with advanced technologies such as triple cooling, beverage centre with autofill jug and water dispenser, convertible freezer and flexible shelving options. AR

Samsung Bottom Mount Bespoke Refrigerator

` Customisable door panels available in multiple colours and finishes

` Minimalist exterior with signature flat door design and recessed handles

` Samsung’s advanced cooling options including Triple Cooling

` Flexible design can be used as a standalone or combined with another Bespoke refrigerator

RRP: $6,599

EUROLINX Daniel Bertuccio Marketing Manager

Eurolinx has seen a huge shift to integrated refrigeration as well as mixed size column refrigeration. “With the rise in cost of living, consumers are seeking products with specialised features promoting preservation of fresh foods as well as technologies designed to increase product longevity,” Daniel Bertuccio said.

The refrigeration strategy for ILVE is focused on maintaining a complementary range to ILVE cooking appliances. “With Fhiaba we are working towards the next 12 months with consumer facing promotions, as well as partnership opportunities designed to increase brand exposure. The Artusi brand strategy is focused on curating a specific range to meet gaps in the market.”

In relation to managing stock, Eurolinx continues to work closely with its partners and use learnings of the past two years to balance stock levels with customer expectations.

When it comes to sales training, Eurolinx is in the process of launching a Learning Management System. “It will feature curated content for each brand under Eurolinx and specialised content for each product category.”

Eurolinx is dedicated to expanding its refrigeration range with a goal to cover the entire market, according to Bertuccio. AR

Artusi Integrated Undercounter Refrigerator AINT119/NF

` 135L net capacity

` Automatic fridge defrost

` Supplied with reversible right-hand hinge

` Three adjustable glass shelves including one split shelf for direct access to crispers

RRP: $1,579

ANDI-CO

Robin Werth Head of Marketing

Consumers continue to look for premium brands as a safe haven of trust and investment. As such, growth in premium brands endures, and Liebherr continues to grow across its portfolio of integrated, freestanding, and luxury Monolith range of integrated refrigeration.

“The Monolith range in particular has enjoyed significant demand as consumers invest in renovations and top-end appliances, and with the introduction of the Monolith Wine Cabinet, the attachment rate has been particularly strong,” Robin Werth said.

As cost of living increases this year, food waste and energy efficiency are key issues for consumers. “Liebherr continues to address these with the launch of innovations that prolong the freshness of food for longer. HydroBreeze, a feature in Liebherr’s new range of integrated refrigeration, bathes fresh produce in a fine mist every time the door is opened and every 90 minutes thereafter, locking in moisture and retaining nutrients and freshness.”

Liebherr is working more closely with its manufacturing supply chain to ensure a consistent supply into the future. “We are also working closely with our retail partners on forecasting demand to ensure we can plan and fulfill demand and deliver on customer expectations.”

While the Liebherr brand is supported through traditional channels, the marketing strategy is evolving into experiential activities. “This has seen Liebherr sponsor and host a wide range of events across the design, food and wine segments.”

Liebherr Integrated Fridge/Freezer ICBNh 5173

`

HydroBreeze bathes fresh produce in a fine mist, prolonging freshness

` BioFresh provides ideal storage conditions for even the most delicate of foods

`

PowerCooling fan distributes cold air efficiently throughout the entire refrigeration

` Two separate cooling circuits ensures no air is exchanged between the fridge and freezer

TBC

Andi-Co continues to strengthen its relationships with retail partners and its own account managers across all brands. “We continually train and engage staff at retail floor level, and also utilise our showroom in Oakleigh, Victoria for formal retail sales and product training. We are looking forward to opening our newly renovated demonstration kitchen soon,” Werth said. AR

“

While the Liebherr brand is supported through traditional channels, the marketing strategy is evolving into experiential activities.

”

FISHER & PAYKEL

Norayr Dabagyan Product Manager

Fisher & Paykel has put a major focus on the online journey and providing customers with a user experience that matches the brand’s identity.

“From education around product features, design and style expression, through to understanding the ethos of the brand and the values that underpin it, we have continued to invest in this critical part of our customer interface,” Norayr Dabagyan said.

The renovation and new build market continues to flourish with growing demand for integrated refrigeration in particular. “This style has become a flagship for us, particularly in high end kitchens where flush finishes and modern design aesthetics meet cutting-edge functionality.

“We have seen preference for four-door French Door refrigerators over the past year, as customers seek more flexibility in managing their freezer space. Variable temperature zones accentuate this offering, allowing customers to switch between refrigeration and freezer to suit their needs.”

Fisher & Paykel continues to keep a close eye on volumes, both in terms of the stock it carries, and the signals sent to manufacturing facilities. “By forecasting further out and reviewing demand in real time, we were able to make sound decisions on orders. All manufacturers continue to deal with global supply restraints on components and parts as well as complications around shipping –something we have effectively factored into our forecasting,” Dabagyan said.

The company’s marketing strategy has continued to evolve to adapt to market changes and the needs of trade and end consumers. “We have a strong digital focus, ensuring we connect with our customers across the path to purchase, whether online or in-store.”

With extensive training and sales development capabilities within the business, Fisher & Paykel will continue to grow this over the coming years.

Dabagyan said the company is excited about the future of refrigeration at Fisher & Paykel and building on its reputation in this space with new products and innovations in the coming years. “Our ongoing investment in and focus on food care, suitability, and sustainability over the lifetime of the product is based on a deep understanding of our customers.”

AR

HITACHI Mark Beard Marketing Manager

Consumers are looking beyond stainless steel and white enamel when it comes to refrigerators, according to Hitachi’s Mark Beard. Glass finishes are on-trend, and the Hitachi French Door range offers glass finishes in various colours. “We have also seen a continued increase in sales of fourdoor French Door refrigerators,” Beard said.

Due to the high cost of fresh food, consumers are looking for features that enable food to stay fresher for longer.

Fisher & Paykel 60cm Integrated

Fridge/Freezer

RS6019BRU1 STP

` Five-star energy rating

` Internal water dispenser and ice maker

`

Flush fit design with 4mm gaps and custom height installation

` Separate evaporator for fridge and freezer compartments to provide superior food care

RRP: $6,499

“Hitachi’s Made in Japan Series features a vacuum compartment that extracts air to keep fresh meat and fish fresher for longer, while the Aero-Care vegetable compartment retains moisture to extend the life of fruit and vegetables. Platinum Catalyst in both compartments creates an optimal environment that sustains freshness, and nutrients, while the Quick Freeze drawer reduces damage to food cell’s structure when freezing meat.”

Hitachi’s supply chain team have been working closely with its factories, freight forwarders and shipping lines to minimise disruptions.

When it comes to sales training, Hitachi has a multi-faceted approach that spans online, before and after work, and ‘popcorn’ training – one-onone training during quiet times in-store. “We work with our retail partners to deliver training that best suits their needs, at a time that they want.” AR

Hitachi 735L Mirror Glass French Door Refrigerator

RZX740KAX

Six-door multi compartments

Five-year full manufacturer’s warranty

Auto doors and easy open drawers

Vacuum compartment, quick freezing compartment and VIP thin insulation

RRP: $5,999

Uncorking the latest wine trends

BY EMILY BENCIC

Wine coolers remain a niche area of refrigeration appliances in Australia, but demand continues to grow, particularly as consumers spend more time at home, and look to comfort and indulgent experiences, Euromonitor data reveals.

The proportion of Australians who drink alcohol dropped by 1.8% to 67.9% in the 12 months to June 2022, as the country emerged from Covid lockdowns, according to Roy Morgan’s latest Alcohol Consumption Report.

The most popular alcohol is wine, but the number of Australians drinking wine dropped 1.7% from 9.24 million to 8.94 million from a year ago – although this still remains well above prepandemic levels.

Almost half of Australians (44.6%) drink wine in an average four weeks, most likely those aged 65 to 79 (51%), however only people aged 50 to 64 have increased their wine consumption over the last year.

Vintec Wine Cabinet VWM306PBA

`

Energy efficient and quiet inverter compressor

`

Vintec Perfect Cradle shelving is fully extendable and wide slats are made of premium white oak

` True Multi-Temp Climate Mode to store all wine at ideal temperatures

`

OENO Virtual Cellar Management app, by Vintec and powered by Vivino, keeps track of wine collection and provides expert recommendations

VINTEC

Lia Kostopoulos

360 Marketing Manager

With people spending more time at home and travelling less, discretionary spending has shifted to home renovations, which has resulted in an increase in wine cabinet purchases, according to Vintec’s Lia Kostopoulos.

“More online research for wine fridges and cabinets is being undertaken as interest in the category grows. Consumers are either adding a wine cabinet as an extension to their kitchen or integrating one as part of their dining area experience,” she said.

Wine consumption is high in Australia, yet wine cabinet ownership is relatively low. Vintec aims to close this gap by educating consumers on the importance of optimal storing and cellaring of wine for ultimate enjoyment.

“We envisage category growth will continue; however we expect it to taper off a little as financial policy results in consumers becoming more cautious with their discretionary spending.”

The Vintec Club – exclusive to owners of Vintec wine cellars – is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Vintec product owners are entitled to free membership and can join at any time to receive exclusive invitations and specially curated experiences such as tastings, tours and masterclasses.

“In July this year, to help celebrate its 10th anniversary, Vintec Club provided its members with a once in a lifetime experience of a six-day wine tour in the birthplace of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay – Burgundy, France. Wineries are normally not open to the general public, but the Vintec Club made this possible,” Kostopoulos said. AR

ASKO Owen Holbourn Sales & Marketing Director

As people spent more time at home due to Covid, they focused on improving their wine collection at home, according to Asko’s Owen Holbourn.

“Collecting, serving and enjoying wine with family and friends became more of a ritual. People have invested in their homes and are wanting to share experiences. This has given rise to increasing popularity in wine cabinets as a show off piece – one to display in a kitchen or dining room rather than hide away in the basement,” he said.

Asko recently launched a Wine Climate Cabinet, the world’s first smart wine cabinet with connectivity to the Connectlife Wine app which taps into Vivino’s extensive database.

It has three separate adjustable climate zones, an inbuilt camera to scan the labels and keep track of every bottle, humidity control and a serving area to decant the wine directly from the cabinet and bring it to the table.

“Customers are conscientious about making their home a place to socialise. People are building beautiful kitchens and living spaces and enjoying these areas with friends and family. With this shift toward entertaining at home, there’s an opportunity to connect to people’s passion for collecting wine,” Holbourn said.

“However, supply chain issues are ongoing, particularly of high-tech products as supply of certain electrical components has been interrupted globally.”

Based on previous experience of changing market conditions, Holbourn expects the economy to start to slow with rising interest rates. “But premium always performs well during challenging times. I think customers will still spend money on their passions and their homes will be part of that, which includes collecting wine and investing in wine cabinets.”

As a brand, Asko sees after-sales service as critical to future success and an area the company continues to heavily invest in. “The connectivity of the wine fridge gives an insight into how technology is going to improve user experience, and we see that as key to delivering an ongoing premium experience for our customers, along with enhancing our internal operations.” AR

Asko Wine Climate Cabinet

` Humidity control

` Three separate adjustable climate zones

` Inbuilt camera scans labels and keeps track of every bottle including its exact location on the shelf

` Connectivity via the Connectlife Wine app taps into Vivino’s extensive database and provides expert advice on storing, pairing and when best to open and enjoy wine

RRP: $14,999

SMEG Leon Wolf Head of Product

Dedicated wine connoisseurs are increasingly knowledgeable when purchasing premium wine cellars, Smeg’s Leon Wolf said. To store wines correctly, they are seeking advanced features to regulate temperature and humidity, block damaging light and minimise vibration.

“In the commercial sector, new home and apartment builds are offering wine storage as a standard inclusion, while consumers are integrating wine cellars as part of their kitchen design, to seamlessly match their other products.”

The need for education on correct cellaring conditions is fundamental to making the right product selection, according to Wolf. “Smeg’s offering is made to exacting standards with UV resistant glass, minimal vibration, air purification and humidity control just some of the key features required.”

Smeg has a positive outlook for the wine cellar category with more people choosing to embrace their wine selections and storage solutions. “In line with our expectations, the Smeg wine cellar range will continue to grow in the next year. Diamond Service, Smeg’s premium customer experience, offers a dedicated contact portal and ability to book an in-home demonstration.” AR

Smeg 45cm Dolce Stil Novo Wine Cellar

bottle capacity

resistant glass

Premium oak shelves and vibration protection

hinge for right or left hinge configuration

$4,190

HISENSE Nicholas Peters Head of Marketing

For many Australians, lockdowns led to increased investment on home appliances, with consumers seeking to recreate the ‘dining out’ experience in their kitchens and living rooms. For wine drinkers, wine cellars and secondary refrigerators are fast becoming a staple in Australian homes to reliably, efficiently and stylishly store beverages, according to Hisense’s Nicholas Peters.

“In today’s market, many Australians are facing challenges from the rising of living, which offers a unique opportunity for companies like Hisense to further innovate to ensure products help save both energy and money. By utilising the latest technology, we develop low energy consuming products out of materials that are safer for the environment,” he said.

In the next 12 months, Hisense anticipates increased demand for customisable products to fit a diverse set of needs – whether it’s for everyday use, or entertaining.

“At Hisense, creating adaptable products has become a priority, as demonstrated in our 46 bottle Dual Zone Wine Cellar, which currently offers adjustable shelves and precise temperature control across the upper and lower sections of the cellar to suit the needs of different beverages.

“These customisable features are supported by an anti-UV Low-E glass door which helps protect wine from harmful UV rays and Total No Frost technology that ensures wine is maintained at the ideal temperature,” Peters explained.

Hisense recognises that after-sales service is a key element of the buying experience and seeks to make this as seamless as possible. “We operate a local customer service centre from Melbourne to support our customers Australia wide. In addition, each Hisense product comes with a three-year warranty to provide peace of mind.” AR

LG Signature Wine Cellar with InstaView

`

InstaView panel to see inside without opening the door

`

Optimal preservation technology minimises temperature fluctuations, reduces vibrations, limits light exposure, and locks in humidity

` Two temperature zone shelves can be adjusted for white or red wine and a third zone drawer is designed for Champagne or sparkling wine

` Auto Lift Drawer lifts up automatically at the push of a button to access food and drinks or step on the Door Open light projection and the door will swing ajar

RRP: $8,999

LG ELECTRONICS

Shannon Tweedie Marketing Manager

Australians have developed a newfound love for their homes, investing in renovations and new products that support this new way of living, LG’s Shannon Tweedie said.

“Home entertaining is a trend that has emerged out of the pandemic, and consumers are seeking out products that deliver a combination of sophistication and convenience across features, technologies and aesthetic design.

“Further to this, there is heightened demand for new and innovative home appliances, brought on from prolonged periods of staying home. This is particularly prevalent in the luxury appliances market and LG is addressing this consumer demand.”

LG helps facilitate luxury living through the LG Signature Wine Cellar, combining functional features and aesthetic design to preserve and store up to 65 bottles of wine. The Multi Temperature and Humidity Control functions help users manage temperature and humidity levels. It also minimises vibrations and light exposure to create the ideal storage environment.

Hisense 46 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Cellar HRWC46

` Interior LED light

`

Anti-UV Low-E glass door

` Digital touch control for convenient operation

` Soft close shelves keep vibration to a minimum

RRP: $1,099

At the same time, LG offers a smaller and more affordable option for storing wines with the LG 8-Bottle Mini Wine Fridge. “Its small capacity design makes it ideal for placing in any space in the home. A Dual Glass Door helps reduce exposure to ultraviolet light and external temperatures with adjustable temperature settings between 8 and 16 degrees Celsius.”

LG expects demand for home appliances to remain consistently high as Australians continue to entertain and spend more time at home. “Ongoing models of hybrid working and flexible lifestyles also mean that Australians are continuously seeking greater flexibility in their lives.” AR

ONCE UPON A VINE

EVERY WINE LOVER SHOULD BE ABLE TO ENJOY THEIR WINES IN THE IDEAL CONDITIONS, AS ORIGINALLY INTENDED BY THE WINEMAKER.

VINTEC CABINETS HOLD YOUR WINE AT ITS PERFECT STORAGE TEMPERATURE, PROTECTED FROM THE WORLD AROUND THEM.

JUST SO WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT, THIS HISTORY CAN BE SHARED, IN PERFECT CONDITION AT THE PERFECT TEMPERATURE.

FISHER & PAYKEL Norayr Dabagyan Product Manager

The integrated wine cabinet market has been growing in line with renovation and home building growth over the past year, Fisher & Paykel’s Norayr Dabagyan said.

Fisher & Paykel

EUROLINX Daniel Bertuccio Marketing Manager

Eurolinx’s Daniel Bertuccio said with the spike in renovating and home entertaining, the wine cellar has become a must have kitchen appliance, be it undercounter or full column.

“ILVE and Fhiaba wine cellars feature the essential wine preservation technologies. Fhiaba is at a more premium level with enhanced lighting, humidity control, an anti-vibration compressor and its trademark Pro Vent technology which maintains a consistent internal temperature.”

Eurolinx has a relatively positive outlook for the next 12 months, expecting further growth in the wine cabinet category, which will be supported by marketing initiatives from both ILVE and Fhiaba.

“In saying that, cost of living is a hot topic right now and wine cellars are often considered a luxury add-on for a kitchen renovation as opposed to an essential appliance like an oven or cooktop,” Bertuccio said.

Eurolinx has a focus on providing a white glove service to customers. “We acknowledge that our customers are making large financial investments in our brands and expect a premium level of service.” AR

ILVE Wine Storage Cabinet ILWD154BL

`

`

“In years gone by, wine fridges were typically small and used to bring bottles from storage to serving temperature, but we now see the wine cabinet taking a more central role in the kitchen as a centrepiece. In particular, with column refrigeration, the wine cabinet is no longer an addition to the refrigeration suite in high-end homes, but an integral part of it.”

Fisher & Paykel wine cabinets deliver dual temperature zones to set the appropriate temperature for each wine varietal, and protection against the effects of light and vibration with UV protected glass and oak shelves. With Wi-Fi connectivity, users can control the setting of the fridge remotely.

Wine cabinets are predominantly considered in new builds and renovations, and the company continues to work with specifiers, designers and architects to bring to life spaces that showcase the wine cabinet as part of a full suite of Fisher & Paykel products within the high-end kitchen.

“This is a particularly attractive proposition for customers who have a collection of wine that they would like to display more prominently, while ensuring it is stored at the perfect temperature, unaffected by light and movement,” Dabagyan said.

Customer service and after sales care is a key focus for Fisher & Paykel. “We have invested heavily in this area over recent years and continue to fine-tune our delivery to ensure every touchpoint of the customer journey is seamless, integrated and delivers to promise.”

Despite the challenges and headwinds facing the market, Fisher & Paykel believes it has the right strategy and portfolio of current and new products to continue delivering strong sales. “We are extremely excited for what is to come for the rest of this year and into 2023. We look forward to working with our retail partners and delivering on our promises.”

We may not be known for our wines in Sweden, but how best to store them is another story. Case in point, the ASKO Wine Climate Cabinet. The technology inside is truly remarkable.

Firstly, the inbuilt camera lets you easily scan the labels, so you can keep track of every bottle, right down to its exact location on the shelf. You’ll never misplace that 2012 Basket Press ever again.

The companion phone app taps into Vivino’s extensive database, providing expert advice on storing, pairing and even when best to open and enjoy your wine.

It really is a virtual sommelier as well as the perfect place to store your wine. And storage is where the cabinet really shines. It has three separate, adjustable climate zones so your Muscat, Malbec and Moët can age happily together, all in the one place.

This, plus features like humidity control and the elegant slide out serving area, means storing your wine is almost as enjoyable as drinking it.

The ASKO Wine Climate Cabinet arrives in Australia in August. And just like drinking a perfectly aged wine, it’ll be well worth the wait.

Introducing a fridge that knows more about your wine than you do.

Make life more intelligent with TCL’s T-Pro Split System air conditioner

TCL’s T-Pro split-system air conditioner provides large living spaces with outstanding temperature control year-round. Features include smart airflow options to direct the air where it needs to go, powerful heating and cooling, and multiple fan modes. Available in 2.6KW, 3.5KW, 5.2KW and 7.2KW cooling capacities, T-Pro’s Gentle Breeze function ensures cool air flows in a way that’s more natural and comfortable. It also has a four-step Auto Clean mode that uses water molecules in the air to help carry away accumulated dirt, bacteria, and impurities. Users receive friendly reminders when it is time to clean the filter, which further safeguards air quality without the added maintenance. The T-Pro Series works with Google Assistant and Alexa, and can connect to a range of compatible smart devices.

RRPs: From $799

The Electrolux Ultimate Taste 609-litre French Door refrigerator

The Electrolux 609L UltimateTaste French Door refrigerator is a large capacity refrigerator designed to ensure food stays fresher for longer. The quad door fridge is full of practical features such as the TasteSealFlex convertible compartment that can change to one of five temperature settings (from -23° to 7° Celsius) providing the freedom to store everything from cheeses to ice-cream. Combine this with TasteLockAuto crispers and TwinTech Cooling to keep fresh food tasty and juicy for longer.

RRPs:

Limited edition Smeg ‘Iconic’ Coca-Cola fridge

Smeg has partnered with Coca-Cola to create the Smeg CocaCola Iconic FAB28 refrigerator with striking Coca-Cola livery and branding, complementing Smeg’s classic retro design to create the perfect marriage of two mid-century modern style legends. With Smeg’s modern manufacturing and energy-efficient technology combining perfectly with Coca-Cola’s old-school 1950s-era redand-white vending machines, the Iconic FAB28 pays homage to both brands’ heritage. Smeg’s cult FAB fridge is a true statement of style with signature innovation including a Life Plus 0°C drawer for better and longer preservation of perishables. Chilling is optimised by a multi-flow cooling system for even and efficient temperature distribution to prevent waste while maintaining freshness, aroma and nutrients of produce and proteins for much longer.

RRP:

Say goodbye to pet hair

All pet owners know the frustration of having to frequently vacuum pet hair. Miele’s Triflex HX2 Cat&Dog Plus features an illuminating extra-wide electrobrush, ensuring no pet hair is left behind. Providing an intensive clean for carpet, the cordless handstick is equipped with two interchangeable lithium-ion VARTA batteries to enjoy up to 120 minutes of runtime. The practical three-in-one design enables users to configure the Triflex HX2 in an ergonomic position, in a set up ideal for those hard to reach areas, or in a compact design – perfect for vacuuming up sand that has made its way into the car after walking the dog along the beach.

RRP: $1,199

Induction heat rice cooker with multi-cooking features

Panasonic’s new Induction rice cooker features the latest steaming technology to ensure rice is a healthy and delicious staple at mealtimes. With a 1.5L capacity, it’s a sleek, user friendly multicooker. The dual layer pan features 3D heating to distribute heat evenly, while the Binchotan Charcoal coated inner pot has excellent thermal conductivity. This technology works in tandem with Panasonic’s precise temperature control, using intelligent sensors and built-in inverter technology. This guarantees rice is cooked thoroughly from the inside out, for a tasty, fluffy result every time. Enjoy white rice, brown rice, porridge, cakes and more. Offering a variety of cooking functions and 11 menus, this rice cooker will be the new kitchen hero.

RRP: $499

New Gelato Expert by Magimix

The best-selling Gelato Expert by Magimix is now available in Australia. Made in Italy by the finest makers of commercial-quality ice cream machines, the Gelato Expert is another premium-quality product that joins the Magimix range. The smallest in footprint and lightest in weight among its competitors, the Gelato Expert is a compressor machine with a built-in freezer, eliminating the need to pre-freeze bowls. It is the only ice cream maker that goes by consistency, not time, ensuring a perfect result. It is built to be more efficient, making it the fastest in the market able to make gelato in 30 minutes or less. Featuring easy-carry handles and two 2L dishwasher-safe stainless-steel bowls, the machines are made to the highest standard.

RRP: $1,399

A good wine collection deserves a great wine cabinet

Each Vintec cabinet is engineered to protect wines, optimise storage space and accessibility while maximising capacity, and provide stunning solutions to showcase a wine. Vintec climate-controlled wine cabinets strictly follow the five pillars of wine storage – precise and stable temperature, high humidity to retain moisture in wine corks, UVlight protection, vibration-proof environment, and optimised airflow to keep the air clean and fresh. The new premium range features Vintec’s proprietary shelving system that fits all bottle types without scratching labels. This innovative design allows collectors to showcase their entire collection with fully extendable, wide-slat, premium white oak shelving.

Reduce food costs and prevent spoilage with TCL’s newest fridge

Behind the slick stainless-steel appearance of TCL’s 505L side-by-side refrigerator is a range of features designed to keep food fresher for longer. Intelligent inverter technology — one of the most advanced and energy efficient compressors available — maintains perfect storage conditions by monitoring the temperature based on the amount of food in the fridge and adjusting itself accordingly. Restocking after a big grocery shop can cause temperature levels to rise, but the Super Cooling/Freezing mode restores the optimum temperature faster, maintaining peak food freshness and perfectly chilled drinks without the extra energy costs. With TCL’s antifingerprint matte finish and integrated frostfree technology, spend less time cleaning the most-used appliance in the home.

AEG

Amazon 8 Andi-Co 64

Asko 67, 71

Beko 15

Bi-Rite 9

Bissell 43

Breville 24, 27

BSH

16, 38

Canstar Blue 22, 56

CDB Group 55

De’Longhi 21, 22, 23, 25, 46

digiDirect 7

DKSH 36, 39

Dyson 43, 55

Ecovacs 42

Electrolux 39, 58, 72

Eurolinx 8, 63, 70

Euromonitor 44, 56, 66

Fisher & Paykel 65, 70

Fujitsu General 7, 52

GfK 22, 34, 44 Glen Dimplex 32, 51

Godfreys 8

Hart & Co.

10

Harvey Norman 6

Hisense IFC, 48, 58, 68

Hitachi 65

IXL Home 38

Jura 15, 26, 29

Kitchen Things 12, 13

LG 17, 40, 62, 68

Liebherr 18 Magimix 73

Miele

19, 28, 33, 34, 35, 37, 61, 73

Milners 41, 54

Mitsubishi Electric 11, 48, 60

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

45, 47

Nespresso 31

Newell Brands 30

Olimpia Splendid 46, 49

Panasonic 18, 50, 61, 73

Philips 32

Roy Morgan 66 Samsung 20, 42, 63

Shriro 51

Smeg 28, 57, 59, 67, 72

TCL 19, 53, 72, 74

Teco 53

TTi Brands 41

Vestel

Vintec 66, 69, 74

Winning Group

READERSHIP GROUPS

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