Sustainability linked with durability and longevity amid cost of living pressures
Close to 50% of Australian shoppers now actively consider sustainability when purchasing, according to a new report from the Monash Business School Australian Consumer and Retail Studies Unit. Almost one in three (30%)
smart premiumisation strategy in the home appliance category. Sustainability considerations include product lifespan, components used, manufacturing process, and packaging. Energy and water efficiency also remain high priorities for
Beko RecycledTub washing machines and washer dryers give recycled plastic bottles a new lease on life.
Brands reflect on 2024 achievements and look to journey ahead
Beko has made significant strides in advancing its sustainability journey, guided by the company’s vision of ‘Respecting the World, Respected Worldwide’.
Beko believes in the power of collective action, and through its ‘In Touch Technology’ approach – ‘In Touch with Business, In Touch with Planet, In Touch with Human Needs’ – the company has designed the future with a focus on creating value for all stakeholders.
This year, Beko has strengthened strategic collaborations with key global initiatives including the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the UNGC CFO Taskforce, the UN CEO Water Mandate, and the World Economic Forum’s Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders.
Beko was among the early movers of the Forward Faster Initiative, launched by the UNGC at the 78th UN General Assembly. This initiative challenges businesses to elevate ambitions in five strategic areas – living wage, gender equality, climate action, water action, and sustainable finance – to accelerate private sector action towards achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda.
As part of its commitment to the Forward Faster initiative, Beko has pledged to take action in three key areas over the next 12 months – climate action, finance and investment, and water resilience.
In climate action, Beko is committed to contributing to a Just Transition by addressing the social impacts of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in collaboration with workers, unions, communities, and suppliers. Beko has also set corporate science-based net-zero emissions targets aligned with a 1.5°C pathway, aiming to halve global emissions by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 at the latest.
In finance and investment, Beko is focused on aligning
As part of its commitment to the Forward Faster initiative, Beko has pledged to take action in climate action, finance and investment, and water resilience.
original target three years ahead of plan, the company wanted to continue momentum and drive climate action throughout the
Electrolux Group has been recognised as a sustainability leader, notably by the CDP (Carbon Disclosure Program) Awards, Carbon Trust and Financial Times, as well as one of the top 500 most sustainable companies globally by Time magazine.
“Closer to home, we received recognition in the South Australian Climate Leaders Awards. The installation of the electric furnace in our Adelaide cooking plant is reward for a mindset of continual sustainability improvement,” Electrolux Australia and New Zealand managing director, Kurt Hegvold said. →
“The replacement of the gas fuelled furnace with an electric furnace in March 2024 was the result of a concerted effort to identify where positive change could be made to further our net-zero ambitions.”
In addition, the Electrolux Ravenhall facility in Melbourne was formally certified by the Green Building Council of Australia this year as a 6-star green star energy rated facility.
“This represents an independently certified level as ‘world leadership’ in building design and construction and considers elements such as water usage, materials and energy efficiency. Our new Queensland distribution centre at the Port of Brisbane, scheduled for completion in late 2024, embraces the sustainable design attributes incorporated in Melbourne.”
Commenting on Electrolux Group’s Zero Waste to Landfill program, which focuses on waste reduction and identifying opportunities for material recovery and reuse, Hegvold said: “Our target is for all plants globally to be certified to Zero Waste to Landfill by 2025. The Adelaide facility, certified in 2021, has improved on its waste reduction with only 0.6% of the total generated waste diverted to landfill.
“We’re looking to continually identify areas where we can improve, ensuring we
“ Our target is for all plants globally to be certified to Zero Waste to Landfill by 2025.
Electrolux ANZ – Kurt Hegvold
identify opportunities to remove nonrenewable sources from our operations and seek opportunities to positively influence employee behaviour.”
Smeg’s core sustainability values include a constant commitment to safeguarding and protecting the environment, reflected in the monitoring of impact with a view to continuous improvement in resource efficiency including materials, energy and water, and waste management.
Smeg has launched several environmental projects in both Italy and abroad with the goal of contributing to the global strategy against climate change and to protect the planet.
Measuring the company’s impact on energy, water, carbon emissions and waste, represents a step in the direction towards greater awareness and a strategic
management approach which involves measurable and achievable objectives and targets.
In 2024, in its path to carbon neutrality, Smeg has created working groups by topic area with the aim of setting targets for reducing carbon emissions and identifying actions to be taken to achieve those targets.
Miele has continued its commitment to sustainability in every step of the product journey throughout 2024. Key focus areas include energy efficient appliances with a new line of dishwashers with programs that allow customers to make more informed choices around performance, energy and water efficiency.
The use of recycled and sustainable materials in products and packaging will continue to increase, aligning with the company’s goal to minimise environmental impact including a reduction of expanded polystyrene packaging for its vacuum cleaners.
With the company’s ‘Immer Besser, Forever Better’ philosophy, Miele is focused on designing durable and repairable products to extend their lifecycle and reduce the need for replacement to promote appliance longevity. →
Electrolux partnered with WastePro for its Ravenhall facility in Melbourne.
Miele has introduced Hybrid 4.0 tonne trucks to its fleet, which contributes to a 25% emission reduction compared to normal diesel transportation. By adopting hybrid fleets, Miele cuts down on operational costs, while contributing to lowering overall demand for fossil fuels. Miele will continue to implement solarpowered and paperless warehouses and its quality pledge of German-engineered and tested.
Hisense believes consumers are more conscious of their environmental impact in purchasing decisions with increasing expectations of the brands they purchase from.
“In 2024, we have strived to meet and exceed these expectations with innovative products, greener manufacturing and sustainable packaging. We have a proven track record of providing some of Australia’s most energy-efficient appliances like the 8-star Eco Vision 503L bottom mount refrigerator, the 5-star Series 9 front load washing machine, 10-star heat pump dryer, and 4.5-star Pure Wash series dishwashers,” Hisense Australia and New Zealand vice president of sales and marketing, Chris Kotis said.
“We believe sustainability starts in the home and through platforms like our ConnectLife app, we aim to empower our customers with transparency around energy and water usage from their Hisense appliances and build confidence in their devices.”
In addition, Hisense is focused on delivering products and packaging that demonstrate its commitment to sustainability. “In 2024, we have continued to commit to research and development (R&D) in energy efficiency innovation so that we can empower consumers to be more environmentally conscious, simply by choosing our appliances for their home.”
In conjunction with APCO guidelines, Olimpia Splendid is working with manufacturers to ensure it achieves 2025 packaging targets.
Zip Water has achieved several milestones this year that underscore its commitment to sustainability and innovation.
“We’ve continued to prioritise our sustainable innovation pipeline. A key highlight is the launch of our most ecofriendly HydroTap yet. This latest innovation features Zip Water’s new command centres,
which utilise R290 refrigerant gas and a redesigned front fascia with an integrated airflow vent, resulting in greater energy efficiency,” Zip Australia and New Zealand managing director, Mike Abbott said.
“In line with our commitment to providing clean, safe drinking water to remote areas of Australia, we’ve partnered with SOURCE and Rural Aid to support Goodooga Central School. Through this partnership, we’ve installed SOURCE Hydropanels and Zip Water Chillers, enabling the school to access 18,000 litres of fresh, clean water annually.
“The Hydropanel array, powered by the sun, extracts water vapour from the air to create clean, renewable drinking water. Over its 15-year lifespan, this system is expected to eliminate the need for more than 500,000 single-use plastic water bottles.”
Anker Innovations’ sustainability efforts are concentrated on six key areas. The first area is clean energy through Anker SOLIX solar power stations and eufy SolarPlus technology for 24/7 security. The second area is recycled materials, with more Anker products now incorporating post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials compared to 2023.
The third area is green packaging with a commitment to eliminating plastic from all product packaging by 2027 and promoting paperless manuals in 2024. The plastic content in total packaging has been reduced by 10% since 2023, now accounting for less than one-fifth (17.1%) of overall packaging materials as of the first half of 2024.
The fourth area is green certification. By the end of the first half of 2024, 395 Anker products on Amazon received the CPF Green Label, covering two-thirds (67%) of the brand’s total offering. The fifth area is a sustainable supply chain with Anker requiring all suppliers to ensure responsible sourcing and to sign a Supplier Compliance Letter, as per the Responsible Mineral Initiatives (RMI) and OECD Due Diligence Guidance.
The sixth area is global environmental cooperation. On a global level, Anker collaborates with Oceana, Tampa Bay Watch and Wohllebens Waldakademie for ocean and forest conservation and in Australia, Anker partners with Taronga Conservation Society Australia and eufy with Make-A-Wish. The Australia and New Zealand Anker team recently participated in a Clean Up Australia event in Melbourne. AR
The Anker team participating in a Clean Up Australia event.
Making progress towards Australia’s 2025 National Packaging Targets
The 2025 National Packaging Targets are designed to create a sustainable pathway for managing packaging. The four Targets are 100% of packaging being reusable, recyclable or compostable, 70% of plastic packaging being recycled or composted and 50% of average recycled content included in packaging and phase out of single-use plastic packaging.
The National Packaging Targets apply to all packaging made, used and sold in Australia. The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) is charged with delivering these industry-led targets.
Beko has made significant strides towards achieving, and even exceeding, Australia’s 2025 National Packaging Targets over the last six months.
“Beko is proud to be the first home appliance company in the world to offer a full line of major home appliances with EPS-free packaging options. This is not just a recent initiative; it’s the result of years of dedicated work by our R&D team in Europe,” Beko Australia and New Zealand marketing manager, Amanda Hart said.
“Our packaging innovations aren’t driven by legislation, but our commitment to what is possible and where we can truly make a difference. At IFA 2023, we showcased our range of sustainable EPSfree packaging options and highlighted the impact we’ve already made, with 34,790 tonnes of recycled cardboard used and 2,571 tonnes of raw material saved in the production of these new packaging solutions.”
In Europe, Beko has been shipping products in EPS-free packaging for the past year, testing and learning through sporadic production runs. In Australia, this has been carried out with pilot productions for EPS-free packaging on existing models like 60cm wall ovens, 9kg washing machines, 8kg heat pump dryers and fully integrated dishwashers, which are beyond the scope of new legislation due to their size and weight.
“Since July 2024, Beko has been shipping limited stock in EPS-free test packaging to various locations across Australia. Upon arrival, our team works with store staff to unpack, inspect, and evaluate the units to ensure the packaging
working towards the ban of the use of polystyrene in packaging in Western Australia from 1 July 2025 for household appliances weighing less than 46kg.
holds up under local warehouse and logistics conditions,” Hart said.
“In addition, we’ve conducted rigorous testing in our own warehouses, including stacking, clamping, and stock movements, to ensure the durability and reliability of our new packaging. Ongoing testing and refinement reflect our unwavering commitment to sustainability and to not only meeting, but more than exceeding Australia’s 2025 National Packaging Targets.”
Under the guidance of its global packaging team, the Electrolux Group continues seeking ways to integrate more recycled content into product packaging, with consideration of the fragile nature of many appliances and potential for damage in transit.
“A key consideration is ensuring that the carbon footprint and quantity of waste generated in this process isn’t higher than with existing materials. We remain committed to exploring and testing the viability of alternate solutions while continuing to work within government regulatory requirements,” Electrolux ANZ’s Kurt Hegvold said.
Over the last six months, Smeg has reduced the use of plastic in packaging, achieved a minimum percentage of recycled material in packaging and is
Final testing of alternative EPS-free packaging, where present today, is underway at all Smeg Group production sites and will be introduced to the production line from fourth quarter 2024 or first quarter 2025.
Miele has expanded the use of postconsumer material (PCR) in the bottles for its liquid detergents over the past six months. Making significant progress towards Australia’s 2025 National Packaging Targets, Miele is committed to further reducing single use plastics and continuing its work with its Warendorf plant in Germany, packing and expanding recyclates across appliance categories.
Miele constantly benchmarks targets to meet Australia’s 2025 National Packaging Targets and will continue to implement strict packaging standards on all products to achieve its goals.
Hisense has continued to successfully integrate sustainable packaging into all retail products over the past six months, with a core focus on reducing the volume of material that goes to landfill. As a result, Hisense has been awarded a ‘Leading’ performance categorisation in the 2024 APCO Annual Report and recognised as a brand going ‘Beyond Best Practice’ in four of seven criteria for the industry.
“Furthermore, our factories operate on materials that are 95% recycled and →
Beko ANZ managing director, John Brown & Beko ANZ sales and marketing director, Jim Kalotheos with new EPS-free packaging in the Beko warehouse in Ormeau, Brisbane.
Shape living for the better with Electrolux
For the last 100 years in Australia and New Zealand, we’ve been committed to creating a better future for our planet and its people.
That’s why we continue to invest in new technology from our manufacturing facilities, our distribution centres and in our products.
To learn more about our 100 actions to shape living for the better in our world, scan the QR code below:
2024 actions
We’ve achieved our science-based targets 3 years ahead of schedule.
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Recognition from Time magazine as one of the top 500 most sustainable companies.
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Our Victorian Distribution Centre was awarded the 6 Star Green Star rating from the Green Building Council Australia.
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Purchased a completely new electric fork lift fleet.
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Won South Australia’s Climate Leaders Award for installing a new electric furnace at our cooking manufacturing plant in Dudley Park, SA.
achieve an average recyclable packaging ratio of 85%, which significantly outpaces APCO targets of 50% by 2025,” Hisense ANZ’s Chris Kotis said.
“In accordance with our Leading rating awarded by APCO, Hisense collected 951 tonnes of on-site waste from our warehouses in the previous year. Cardboard and EPS – which we are actively working towards phasing out entirely in our products – accounted for 800 tonnes, which are recycled through subcontractors ensuring that this waste, making up 84% of total on-site waste was diverted from landfill.
“Hisense maintains its sustainability leadership by being one of very few companies in Australia to offer a recycling scheme for EPS, available to all customers who purchase a Hisense product.”
BSH is focused on increasing the recycled content within its appliances, with the aim of developing more components from sustainable materials. The company is also increasing the recycled content within packaging to minimise environmental impact in line with the phasing out of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) packaging in Australia.
Olimpia Splendid has been communicating with suppliers for over a year in preparation for the 2025 packaging targets.
Zip Water has made significant progress in sustainable packaging. As part of its APCO commitments, by 2024, the company will eliminate 100% of problematic materials, including Styrofoam, from its operations.
“This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce our environmental footprint, where we aim to use 100% recyclable materials in our packaging. In addition, we’re exploring innovative packaging designs that minimise waste and promote a circular economy. This initiative reflects our ongoing efforts to ensure that sustainability is integrated into every aspect of our
operations from product design to packaging,” Zip Water ANZ’s Mike Abbott said.
Anker Innovations is committed to eliminating plastic in all product packaging by 2027, reducing plastic in packaging and promoting 100% fibre-based materials.
Over 98% of new portable charging products now use paper trays, reducing plastic usage by 30%. Eufy products have reduced plastic content by 20% by switching to pulp and paper folding structures and Soundcore headphones have reduced plastic content by 25%. The Anker Nano series and Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro have achieved zero plastic packaging, utilising 100% fibrebased materials. By bringing 204 paperless manuals online in early 2024, Anker has reduced paper consumption by over 150 tonnes.
Anker Innovations and its brands are committed to adhering to all Australian regulations by eliminating EPS materials in new projects across several brands and opting for eco-friendly alternatives such as EPE, EPP or paper materials. AR
By the end of 2024, Zip Water will eliminate 100% of problematic materials including Styrofoam from its operations.
Olimpia Splendid’s new sustainable packaging.
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Amount Recycled (k g)
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More products offering sustainable features and benefits
From a product perspective, one of the key sustainability callouts from Beko is Aquatech technology in new washing machines.
“Aquatech offers a unique combination of speed, gentleness and energy efficiency. Unlike other fast washing machines that may consume more energy or be harsh on clothes, Beko Aquatech harnesses the power of water to minimise the damaging effects of drum movements, while maximising time savings,” Beko Australia and New Zealand product manager, Murat Dora said.
“This means fabrics are washed quickly but with twice the care, offering a sustainable solution that doesn’t compromise on performance or fabric care. ‘Half the time, twice the care’ is the message that resonates with eco-conscious consumers looking for efficient and gentle washing solutions.”
In early 2025, Beko will introduce another sustainable washing technology, EnergySpin designed to save energy across all wash programs, not just the Eco cycle.
“Our re-engineered drum movements, which dissolve detergent more effectively and earlier in the cycle, reduce the need for excessive heat and therefore conserve energy. While the Eco program remains the gold standard for energy efficiency, Beko’s EnergySpin technology ensures that consumers are also saving energy on the most frequently used cycles,” Dora said.
Beko’s commitment to incorporating recycled materials into products is reflected in Beko RecycledTub washing machines and washer dryers, which give recycled plastic bottles a new lease on life by using them in the tubs.
“By transforming plastic waste into high-performance materials, we take meaningful steps toward restoring our natural environment, reducing the need for raw materials, and cutting down on landfill waste. Moving forward, we aim to increase the number of parts made from recycled plastic across our product range,” Dora said.
Beko is also addressing marine pollution through its RecycledNet ovens, which feature parts made from upcycled fishing nets and industrial thread waste.
ABOVE: Beko EnergySpin technology saves energy across all wash programs.
Hisense 10-star heat pump dryer.
“With tonnes of fishing nets lost in the ocean each year, these materials continue to harm marine life long after their intended use. By repurposing them into thermally resistant oven parts, we help protect endangered species and contribute to healthier oceans.”
Electrolux Group recognises that consumers increasingly expect efficient appliances that reduce energy and water consumption, ultimately delivering cost savings.
“We’re proud to offer products that are built in an environment where our employees are treated ethically and respectfully, and our sustainability choices guide our decision-making,” Electrolux ANZ’s Kurt Hegvold said.
In August 2024, the Electrolux Group released the latest edition of the ‘Truth About Laundry Report’, part of a sevenyear, science-led research program focused on extending clothing life.
“Sharing information such as a cotton T-shirt washed at 30°C for 59 minutes will last over 50% longer than when washed on
a regular 40°C cycle, can help to compel changes in behaviour. The research reveals a reluctance and a knowledge gap in moving from default cycles, which we’re seeking to address.”
The Electrolux Pure 900 Air Purifier, made with 98% recycled fabric and up to 60.6% recycled plastic, was named winner of the Plastics Recycling Awards Europe for the Automotive, Electrical or Electronic Product of the Year category.
2025 will see several new product launches with sustainability at the forefront including a new AEG built-in kitchen range and Electrolux laundry range.
Smeg continues to research more sustainable materials and more environmentally friendly packaging
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solutions, as well as innovation and after-sales service with a view to greater product durability.
Educating customers on the digitalisation of kitchens is a major focus for Miele to help customers make more sustainable choices and allow Miele appliances to work together seamlessly within their home ecosystem.
The Miele Smart Home app is designed to support customers throughout their Miele product journey, as a one-stop shop for solutions, tips and advice on questions relating to the operations, as well as recommended features to reduce environmental footprint.
Appliance features such as Eco mode programs are designed to reduce water and energy consumption, while delay start functions allow customers to take advantage of cost saving off-peak tariffs.
The Hisense ‘Just Makes Sense’ ethos is part of the brand’s mission to educate retail partners and consumers on sustainability, cutting through the noise and providing clarity on what matters.
“We pride ourselves on three core sustainability pillars – minimising electronic waste, ensuring our e-waste disposal processes adhere to industry best practice; innovating towards product energy efficiency, utilising the latest technology to develop low energy consumer products, and promoting sustainable packaging,” Hisense ANZ’s Chris Kotis said.
BSH offers a range of water and energy efficient products across all price points, giving customers the power to make environmentally conscious choices and help reduce their individual impact on the environment, beyond cost savings alone.
Recognising that regular repair of appliances is a more sustainable choice than replacing an appliance, BSH has extended the availability of spare parts from 10 years to 15 years for large appliances and from seven years to 10 years for small appliances, for all appliances produced after the beginning of 2023. Over 350,000 spare parts are now stored globally. This is a commitment to extend the lifetime of BSH appliances, reduce waste and promote sustainability, while ensuring high quality customer service.
Olimpia Splendid is looking to add callouts focused on packaging being sustainable where applicable, such as the use of recyclable and or biodegradable materials.
Zip Water’s latest innovation in HydroTap G5 represents a leap forward in sustainable design and efficiency. It features an eco-friendly refrigerant gas, delivering a 95% reduction in Global Warming Potential (GWP), future proofing for any incoming climate regulations in Australia.
“The new front fascia design and integrated airflow vent enhances our use of air-cooled technology, resulting in greater energy efficiency and 100% water efficiency. The simplified design also eliminates the need for vent trays and reduces clearance requirements, ensuring consistent installation and longterm reliability,” Zip Water ANZ’s Mike Abbott said.
Zip Water continues to lead in sustainable practices, earning an EcoVadis Gold rating for two consecutive years. “Our efforts include using 100% recycled packaging, focusing on our environmental footprint and supporting initiatives like SOURCE HydroPanels, which provide fresh water to remote communities.”
Anker Innovations is committed to making it easier for consumers to choose
more eco-friendly options without compromising on quality or performance. Products like the Anker Eco Cable use plant-based materials such as corn and sugarcane, significantly reducing reliance on traditional plastics and the Nano USB-C fast charging line-up features up to 80% recycled plastics.
Anker SOLIX is leading the way in clean energy solutions with solar-rechargeable portable power stations and residential energy solutions that help consumers reduce their carbon footprint while promoting energy independence. Eufy SolarPlus technology ensures security with remarkable efficiency, converting sunlight into energy with 25% PV conversion efficiency at just 2,500 Lux – 75% less light than typical solar-powered devices require. Anker’s GaNPrime technology and smart AC outlets are designed to maximise energy conservation. AR
TOP: Zip Water’s HydroTap G5 features an eco-friendly refrigerant gas.
ABOVE: Anker SOLIX solarrechargeable portable power stations.
The positive impact of Corporate Social Responsibility
Beko CEO, Hakan Bulgurlu says the company believes that a sustainable future begins at home, with each and every one of us.
“Today, we are recognised as the most sustainable home appliances company in the world, and our efforts have been acknowledged by multiple international organisations. We are once again listed as the highest-scoring company in our industry in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for the fifth year in a row,” he said.
“In addition, our company has been recognised on The Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations Ranking of Corporate Knights for the fourth time in a row, and recognised for our commitment to sustainability, securing the 44th spot on Time Magazine and Statista’s inaugural list of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies.
“These successes demonstrate that our commitment to a net-zero future is not a temporary but a permanent part of our existence. Sustainability goes beyond environmental concerns to encompass principled business practices, social equity, and long-term resilience in all aspects of society. It involves promoting a culture of responsible consumption, prioritising inclusivity and diversity, and striving for equal access to resources and opportunities for all individuals.”
Electrolux Group acknowledges that positive change must be instilled internally and externally.
“Our teams understand the importance of providing consumers with the knowledge they need to get the best possible outcome using our product features. We in turn have a responsibility to show that the group contributes to our community,” Electrolux ANZ’s Kurt Hegvold said.
“We have an ongoing commitment to making a difference and we want our employees involved. While we have activations supported by the Electrolux Food Foundation such as World Food Day, we acknowledge that employees have CSR activities which are individually important to them. Our CARE program enables all employees to take a day off to volunteer for a charity they care about or to do something special for their own wellbeing.
“Through our partnership with the St Kilda Football Club, we recently helped raise money and awareness for the Danny Frawley Centre. The centre is focused on normalising the conversation surrounding mental health, which we supported by hosting a ‘Kicking Goals for Charity’ at several of our sites. Through this activity, we were able generate awareness while creating a fantastic engagement opportunity.”
From a personnel perspective, Smeg focuses on the active and responsible involvement of every resource in a corporate
ABOVE: Bosco Smeg (Smeg wood) peri-urban forestation project in the Province of Parma, Italy.
process, establishing transparent relationships open to discussion and the enhancement and empowerment of each person, in line with the principles and values laid out in the Code of Ethics.
In particular, this commitment is manifested in the following focus areas – support for national and international charitable organisations, participation in projects to restore and add value to the artistic, cultural and architectural heritage, sponsorship of social-cultural activities, collaboration with sports and youth activities associations, and campaigns to support hospitals through the donation and funding of apparatus and technological equipment for diagnosis and prevention, as well as the sponsorship of research activities.
Corporate Social Responsibility is integral to Miele and encompasses its commitment to ‘Immer Besser’ for the planet, sustainability, ethical practices, and community engagement.
Miele’s CSR approach includes community engagement, ethical operations and environmental responsibility, as well as employee wellbeing by providing a supportive and inclusive workplace, offering development opportunities and promoting work-life balance.
Miele has partnered with Greenfleet to plant biodiverse native forests to capture carbon emissions and help fight the impacts of climate change. Greenfleet has been restoring native forests for over 25 years, planting over 10.8 million trees and creating more than 550 forests, which are legally protected for up to 100 years.
Hisense believes brands have a responsibility to conduct business ethically with a high degree of sensitivity towards social, cultural, economic and environmental issues to have the most positive impact on stakeholders and customers.
“As a leading global home appliance and consumer electronics brand, we strive to act in the best interests of our customers and wider industry, pioneering innovations in the industry and in our products through green technology. We ensure that our innovations result in environmental and commercial gains for all stakeholders,” Hisense ANZ’s Chris Kotis said.
BOTTOM LEFT: Anker partners with Taronga Conservation Society Australia.
Olimpia Splendid is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and energy consumption. With regards to packaging, the brand is making sure sustainable packaging can still adequately protect products during transport and where possible, absorb and minimise additional costs associated with more sustainable cartons.
Corporate Social Responsibility is at the core of Zip Water’s brand identity, guiding its commitment to sustainable practices that benefit both internal and external stakeholders.
“Internally, we promote environmental stewardship by encouraging refillable bottle use and reducing single-use plastics. Externally, we provide clean drinking water worldwide, design water and energy-efficient products, and ensure ethical supply chains,” Zip Water ANZ’s Mike Abbott said.
“Our dedication is evident in our EcoVadis Gold rating and product stewardship practices with our Environmental Product Declaration and lifecycle assessments (LCAs), reflecting our high standards of social and environmental responsibility.”
In addition to efforts to make products and processes more sustainable, Anker Innovations is committed to supporting the environment through meaningful partnerships and empowering employees through community engagement.
In 2024, the ‘AnkerCares’ CSR initiative launched its first offline event in the US, involving employee volunteering and donations across four states. Anker Innovations is actively working to expand the program into other markets and offices in 2024 and 2025, encouraging community involvement through volunteer days off and donation matching. AR
ABOVE: eufy supports Make-A-Wish Australia.
Ecycle Solutions puts people over profit with the support of the NTCRS
Ecycle Solutions, part of the QLS Group which specialises in the logistics, warehousing and distribution of oversized electrical appliances across Australia, provides an affordable solution for end of life appliance collection and disposal, in collaboration with its recycling partner, Ewastec.
Ecycle Solutions has seen e-waste volume and turnover double since preCovid, partly due to the exit of two major recyclers, coupled with the Victorian e-waste landfill ban.
“Pandemic spending also had an upward impact on e-waste volume, though managing repeated lockdowns and restrictions proved quite challenging, often resulting in large peaks and troughs in material flow,” Ewastec managing director, Paul Boshell said.
“While the type of e-waste material, predominantly televisions, didn’t necessarily improve our bottom line, it provided more employment opportunities for our disability program. We have grown from employing four supported workers per day in 2015 to over 20 per day today.”
Ewastec primarily relies on low skilled manual labour, and while its disability program fills most of these roles, there’s still a requirement for staff to operate forklifts, trucks and other complex machinery.
“Post-Covid, during a period of rapid growth, finding these people was a significant challenge. Although this has improved over the last 12 months, it has created other employmentrelated financial challenges, in addition to increased costs particularly with insurances and taxes,” Boshell said.
Ecycle Solutions is a fully compliant administrator of, the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme (NTCRS), which was established in 2011 to give Australian households and small businesses free access to industry-funded collection and recycling services for televisions and computers.
The scheme is designed to reduce waste to landfill, increase the recovery of reusable materials and provide convenient access to recycling services throughout Australia.
While Ewastec recognises that its reliance on the NTCRS may be too significant – accounting for nearly 40% of overall revenue – it’s required to remain viable as most people still believe that recycling services should be free with low motivation to pay.
“There are very few e-waste materials that have value without relying on the NTCRS for added revenue. Televisions, as an example, could not be recycled without the funding and even with the scheme’s support, this type of material is a breakeven scenario for our business at best,” Boshell said.
“If the costs involved in running the scheme are significant, or the ability to create revenue from liable parties is diminished, very little of the revenue reaches our business. It’s not significant enough to fund the recycling process itself,” Boshell said.
Adding a larger range of compliant items, such as small appliances, would help the business and provide social good and employment opportunities for the disability sector. The recycling of smaller appliances was scheduled to already be underway but there’s been delays from the government.
“This also requires a thorough understanding of the return value of these items, coupled with the associated challenges and cost involved in handling and processing. It would also require financial input from those creating the recycling need.”
However, the NTCRS enables Ewastec to provide ongoing employment for people with disabilities, which is core to its business.
“Without the NTCRS, our business would most likely cease to exist at the volume we are recycling. We would be forced to pick and choose materials with reasonable recycled value while imposing fees that most would be reluctant to pay,” Boshell said.
“As a business we have chosen to focus on people and employment opportunities and not profits. We could significantly reduce our workforce and automate much of the recycling process and achieve greater financial returns, but this would be to the detriment of our local community and those who rely on low skilled employment opportunities.
“While increasing our workforce in line with growth has impeded our ability to generate profit, we are committed to continuing to provide these employment opportunities, particularly to those who need it most.
“Our vision is to become a large-scale employer of people with disabilities, and we are committed to this process. We will continue to invest in the training and education of people to perform critical roles within our business. This will ensure we are a long-term operator in Australia and capable of overcoming the challenges of our industry.”
Ecycle Solutions commits to continued investment in training and education of people to perform critical roles within its business.
Winning Group outlines key sustainability achievements
The Winning Group has achieved significant milestones in its sustainability journey, as part of the company’s CARE Framework (Community, Awareness & Education, Responsible Sourcing and Environment).
“Sustainability is at the core of our mission to create the best experiences in the world, for the world – for customers, our team, our communities and the planet. We want to use our ecosystem as a force for good and show that you can build a business that has a positive impact and is commercially successful at the same time,” Winning Group head of sustainable business and corporate social responsibility, Alice Kuepper told Appliance Retailer
Winnings Kingston (ACT) and Myaree (WA) showrooms are among Australia’s first retail stores to receive a NABERS (National Australian Built Environment Rating System) star rating. The NABERS Accelerate program develops a rating tool for retail stores to manage, report and improve energy efficiency.
Winning Group was a finalist in the Online Retail Industry Awards Sustainability Impact Award and acknowledged in the 2024 Australian Financial Review (AFR) Sustainability Leaders List for its free removal and recycling program.
“This highlighted the legendary contribution and effort of our teams enabling our free removal and recycling program for appliances, mattresses and product packaging. We were recognised as the category winner for ‘Retail, Hospitality, Tourism & Entertainment’.”
Through the free removal and recycling program offered to Appliances Online, Winnings, Andoo and Home Clearance customers, in the first six months of 2024, over 6,500 tonnes of materials were diverted from landfill including scrap metal, packaging waste and mattresses.
“To facilitate our mattress removal and recycling program, we partner with recyclers including social enterprises, Soft Landing and Bounce Back, which create jobs for people experiencing employment barriers.”
From July 2023 to June 2024, the Winning Group diverted 1,721 tonnes of packaging waste, consisting of cardboard, soft plastic and polystyrene, from landfill and sent these materials to recycling facilities. At the close of FY24, the company achieved an annual average of 86% landfill diversion for packaging waste.
Appliances Online renewed its gold partnership with Dignity Homeless Services Australia and to mark National Homelessness Week, the Appliances Online team packed over 100 toiletry packs for men and women experiencing homelessness. Further, Appliances Online Commercial has partnered with Indigenous-owned social enterprise, Project Net Zero and delivered over $200,000 of appliances to Aboriginal communities in far north Queensland affected by recent floods.
“We aim to accelerate our efforts to measure, manage, and reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to driving industry progress through our participation in forums and associations such as the Coalition for Sustainable Solutions (CoFoSS), of which we are a founding member. We are currently working on our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan and look to launch this in the next few months,” Kuepper said. AR
CoFoSS invites more members to join sustainability solutions coalition
The Coalition for Sustainable Solutions (CoFoSS) formally launched in April 2024 as a not-for-profit organisation with founding member companies including Bing Lee, Bosch, Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, JB Hi-Fi, Miele, Narta, Panasonic, Retravision, Samsung, The Good Guys and Winning Group.
“CoFoSS has defined its service offering to provide sustainability education, advocacy and support and is now inviting members to join,” Electrolux ANZ managing director and CoFoSS inaugural chair, Kurt Hegvold said.
“CoFoSS has commenced discussions with government and industry stakeholders on battery product stewardship and EPS packaging stewardship which have been productive in supporting CoFoSS’ goal to inform and influence policy decisions.”
An immediate priority of CoFoSS is addressing the impact of expanded polystyrene (EPS) used in product packaging by working with, and contributing to, consultations led by the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO).
“CoFoSS exists to bring together ANZ’s leading consumer electronics and home appliance retailers and brands to reduce the environmental impact of these products and packaging by developing scalable and cost-effective industry-wide sustainability solutions,” Hegvold said.
“While there are some great examples of sustainability leadership of individual companies, as an industry, consumer electronics still has a long way to go. CoFoSS intends to work on a larger scale and bring the industry together to achieve convenient solutions for consumers, as well as cost-efficiencies for brands and retailers.”
Winning Group head of sustainable business and corporate social responsibility, Alice Kuepper.
Why retailers should hero sustainability on the shop floor
Beko urges its retail partners to understand sustainability is more than just a talking point. “It’s a fundamental part of our story and should be a key part of yours too,” Beko Australia national sales manager, Eddie Gaymer said.
“When discussing features and benefits with customers, having a genuine sustainability story sets you apart from the rest. It’s more than just water and energy star ratings – it’s about the entire lifecycle of our products, from manufacturing to delivery and beyond.”
Beko Australia sales and marketing director, Jim Kalotheos added, “Sometimes, the importance of sustainability can be overlooked on the shop floor. It’s not just about selling a sustainable product; it’s about contributing to a healthier planet for all of us.
“Customers will increasingly walk into your stores asking for the most sustainable home appliances on the market. That’s why we echo the commitment of our global CEO to achieving net zero. Our global sustainability initiatives reflect our unwavering dedication to creating a sustainable future, and we’re proud to partner with you in sharing that message.”
Sustainability is at the heart of what the Electrolux Group does and has been for many years, as the company strives to create better and more sustainable living for people around the world through its sustainability framework — For the Better 2030.
“We will continue to be a leader in our commitment to the environment. Our ability to positively contribute to shaping the future for our employees, consumers and customers is a role we don’t take lightly,” Electrolux ANZ’s Kurt Hegvold said.
“Our retail partners can be assured that our commitment is shared throughout the Electrolux Group and is intrinsically embedded in everything we do. On the shop floor, our products and services
enable consumers to save energy, water and resources, while helping to foster a more circular economy.”
For Smeg, sustainable development means investing in the quality of life of its employees, establishing an ongoing dialogue with transparency and cooperation. Sustainable development also means ensuring a healthy and hospitable planet for future generations and guaranteeing access to natural resources through a regenerative approach.
Smeg is focused on designing large and small appliances in a responsible and forward-looking manner. Design and technology come together in a wide range of products designed to last, which is the result of a long-term vision derived from architecture.
Highlighting Miele’s sustainability credentials and commitment to quality and performance remains an
4.5-star Pure Wash series dishwasher.
TOP: Miele is committed to appliance quality and performance.
ABOVE: Beko Aquatech technology combines speed, gentleness and energy efficiency.
LEFT: Electrolux laundry products are focused on extending clothing life
OPPOSITE PAGE: Hisense
important part of the company’s evolving and overarching message to retail partners, as more consumers prioritise product longevity, as well as energy and water saving features.
Communicating and sharing its sustainability journey and credentials is important for brand loyalty, transparency and trust. Miele strives to further engage with customers and retail partners, while continuing to offer appliances that help minimise environmental impact.
Hisense sees environmental social responsibility throughout every stage of the customer purchase journey from manufacturing to the shop floor, and when products are installed in the home.
“Customers are choosing to seek out brands that align with their own values, which highlights the importance of sustainability credentials. Sustainability is a core pillar of the Hisense brand and we’re proud of the innovations and efficiencies
our team has achieved. We look forward to continuing this evolution in our sustainability journey,” Hisense ANZ’s Chris Kotis said.
BSH is reducing the energy used in the manufacturing process and sourcing components, curbing carbon emissions associated with production processes. BSH home appliances are designed to simplify everyday life while promoting sustainability, which goes beyond the production and packaging.
Olimpia Splendid believes the availability of sustainable products and packaging helps give consumers peace of mind that they are contributing to the environment in a positive way.
Sustainability is at the heart of Zip Water’s mission and should feature prominently on the shop floor too.
“As consumers increasingly prioritise eco-friendly products, highlighting our sustainability credentials such as
“ Anker’s sustainability management spans the entire product lifecycle from design and sourcing to production, distribution, and end-of-life management.
reducing single-use plastics, offering water and energy-efficient solutions, and supporting renewable resources, can meet this growing demand and build a more sustainable future. By collaborating with our retail partners, we can drive meaningful environmental change and strengthen consumer trust,” Zip Water ANZ’s Mike Abbott said.
“In addition to our EcoVadis Gold rating and comprehensive sustainability initiatives, we also empower consumers with tools like the Zip Impact Calculator to quantify the environmental benefits of the HydroTap. As global leaders in drinking water solutions, we continue to transform water, making a positive impact on lives and protecting the planet for future generations.”
Anker Innovations’ sustainability journey is a core part of its brand identity. The company understands that consumers are making purchase decisions based on more than just product features – looking for brands that align with their values, particularly when it comes to sustainability.
Anker’s sustainability management spans the entire product lifecycle from design and sourcing to production, distribution, and end-of-life management, reflecting a dedication to protecting both the planet and people. Sustainable products are developed in collaboration with customers to achieve a greener and more sustainable future. AR
Smeg’s dedication to preserving and defending the environment stands as a pillar of our mission.
Enter Tritan TM Renew : a material composed of 50% certified recycled content, utilising cutting-edge molecular recycling to transform challenging-to-process plastic waste into fresh, sustainable materials.
