Twice 734 - June 2024

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THE BUSINESS OF CONSUMER ELECTRONICS June 2024 • Volume 39 • Issue 6 Newspaper Handling $25

TOP 50 STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

2024

HOW NEW SUSTAINABILITY TRENDS ARE REDEFINING RETAIL

Major Appliance Retailer Report

HOME HEALTHCARE REVOLUTION: SMART HOMES AS HEALTH MONITORS

Inbox

TWICE.COM | JUNE 2024

WINNER Grant Morgan, Senior Editor grant.morgan@futurenet.com @GrantMorgan77

Winners Of The 2024 TWICE Picks Awards At CES Announced CES 2024 has come and gone, and TWICE is proud to announce the winners of our 2024 TWICE Picks Awards at CES! Presented by TWICE, Residential Systems and TechRadar Pro, this prestigious awards program gives the opportunity to stand apart amongst other consumer electronics brands, at the world’s largest consumer electronics show.

Congratulations to all our winners!

Coming Soon: 2024 TWICE VIP Awards!

The 2024 TWICE VIP Awards is fast approaching, and we’ll have more details on how to enter soon! As the only award voted on exclusivesly by consumer tech retailers and distributors, winning a TWICE VIP Award demonstrates your device has what it takes to resonate with consumers and succeed on shelves. Visit TWICE.com and search “VIP Awards” to see our past winners and entrants.

UPCOMING EVENTS

All events are subject to change. Please visit the hosting company’s website for up-to-date information.

NATM Conference July 23-26, 2024 Frisco, TX Nationwide PrimeTime August 11-14, 2024 Las Vegas, NV AVB Convention August 25-28, 2024 Dallas, TX

CEDIA Expo 2024 September 4-7, 2024 Denver, CO Exertis Almo E4 Experience September 10, 2024 Boston, MA

Time To Sail The High Seas

I

was able to attend a retirement ceremony for my wife’s aunt last month as she celebrated a 46-year long career with RC Willey in their advertising department - something that doesn’t happen often anymore in our industry. It was heartwarming to be present as coworkers heartily congratulated and thanked her for influencing their careers and lives, and it got me thinking about how much has changed in the workplace since she started her career at the original RC Willey store in Syracuse, Utah in the 1970s.

While my wife’s aunt was able to stay with a company for 46 years, I’ve already worked at *cough* jobs in multiple states and cities.I’ve had the privilege of working for and with some amazing people and businesses and also the complete opposite. Growing up in the 80s and 90s, my parents ingrained in me a strong work ethic accompanied by the societal doctrine of “work hard, be loyal and you’ll be successful and rewarded for your efforts” that still drives many of us today. Well, in my own experience, that’s not quite how things have turned out.

Change is inevitable, and a quick glance at a timeline of the 1900s-2000s will show an incredible acceleration of technological advances and wonders, many that have displaced workers of all positions, ages and industries throughout the decades. Fortunately, change isn’t only about endings and

new opportunities abound today, particularly for those who face forward and push on in their journey.

American author and businessman, John A. Shedd once said, "A ship in a harbour is safe but that is not what ships are built for," and I agree. While the ocean of life can be wide open and scary as we stare across the unknown waves, there’s nothing to be gained by remaining in the harbor. Life at work and home is full of ups and downs, ups and downs and more ups and downs.

Getting seasick yet? I’m right there with you. But even though I have and will experience unknown ups and downs in my career and life, I’m glad I choose to leave the safe harbors to continue on my journey.

As you reflect on how you got to where you are today, you’ll see the times you were navigating with clear direction and purpose, and you’ll see the times you’ve lost your heading and had to navigate by the stars and your gut. All of that makes you who you are keep on sailing!

This month TWICE reveals the highly anticipated rankings of the Top 50 Major Appliance Retailers Report to your inbox or mailbox, and we thank our research partners at Senex for their invaluable research.The appliance industry saw an incredible boom during the heart of the pandemic, and signs are pointing to a return to “normalcy” once again.

Be well, enjoy the start of summer and remember to leave the harbor!

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3

4 Perspective

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

The Next-Gen Of Wearable Tech: Driving Deeper Experiences The wearables industry needs to double down on innovation and find new creative use cases and experiences

By Kwame Ferreira, CEO and Founder, Bond Touch

W

BOND TOUCH

ith nearly 450 million devices being shipped in 2023 alone and with industry growth expected to continue at 6 percent year-over-year, wearable technology is now a staple of everyday life.

Yet, despite impressive adoption rates a significant question persists about the true impact of wearable devices: how wearable technology has fundamentally changed the way that individuals live their lives. Many in the technology world remain unsold that it has reached anywhere near its full potential in this regard. The reason being, it’s a technology very centered on the individual and studies have shown that our health and

longevity are deeply tied to our ability to connect meaningfully with others. For the most part, wearables have allowed us to connect with ourselves but not really with others. This is where wearable technology can really shine, in a new vector where wearables help us connect deeply with each other.

Yes, we have redefined fitness routines and made us all arguably more productive.

Wearable technology has forever reshaped many aspects of our day-to-day routines and will continue to do so. However, as with any technology sector, if the wearable space is going to continue its meteoric rise, the industry needs to double down on

innovation and find new creative use cases and experiences.

Tech players continue to push the boundaries on device performance and ease of use. However, while these elements may help from a product differentiation and appeal perspective, as consumers have become accustomed to having a wearable device in their daily lives, expectations have also risen and the big question looms high above every player in this sector: “What’s next?”

The answer lies in driving deeper connections that can help individuals not only just track steps or check-up on their email but also engage with their loved ones

6 Perspective

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

in new ways. We call this the rise of emotional wearables. Here is a look at some of the opportunities that the emotional wearable space presents for technology makers as well as how they can deliver devices with greater emotional potential.

The enduring presence of computers and mobile phones is a testament to their flexibility. These pieces of technology have adapted to the times and allowed for multiple use cases. Devices that are only limited to a static or commoditized set of use cases are likely not to last that long.

Therefore, tech companies need to find ways to configure their devices in a way that offers more than just stock text messaging or weather apps. Emotional experiences can do just that. For example, instead of a simple text message, what if companies paired this messaging with innovative haptics and vibration patterns to allow users to easily send “touch” based messages for “I love you” or “Happy Birthday” as opposed to just a traditional message. This allows for not only a new experience but also further integration of technology with communications between individuals and loved ones.

INNOVATING WITH BIOMETRICS To date, biometrics have largely been used by technology companies for things such as authentication and health monitoring.

However, while these use cases have helped to provide better levels of device security or health diagnostics, what if we could expand these use cases even further and leverage them to create the next generation of experiences for wearable device users?

Advances in wearable device hardware and software capabilities have paved the way for wearable companies to debut technology that allows users to share heartbeats with loved ones, for example.

The call for innovation doesn’t stop there.

For example, further energy is being dedicated within the technology research world to using sensory data to help interpret physiological responses and emotional states to promote better mental health awareness. These types of innovative, emotion-centric use cases will open a whole new frontier for users.

BOND TOUCH

ENHANCING FLEXIBILITY

MOVING BEYOND TRADITIONAL “DEVICES” If someone asked an average tech user what a wearable device looks like, most would likely point to something akin to a pendant or watch. If the space is going to continue to expand, however, technology manufacturers need to be able to find new ways to branch wearable technology into additional mediums. Toys in particular present unique opportunities that are already being explored. For example, stuffed animals that parents can use to remotely send hugs or share recorded messages when they are away on business.

These types of more human experiences unlock new avenues for technology companies to provide additional value to consumers that “traditional” wearable devices cannot.

EMOTIONAL WEARABLES There is a logic to tech where it pretends to come in with a savior complex when it should first understand which human dynamics do in fact make us happier and by default more productive, and augment those.

Emotional wearables take a leap beyond traditional applications by incorporating human elements into the technology.

Devices that not only track your activity but also sense your mood and offer encouragement or a calming influence when stress levels rise. Devices that alert

friends or family members when you're feeling down, bridging the gap between our digital and emotional lives. Additionally, integrating technology like thermal feedback will simulate the warmth of a human touch, providing comfort even when we're alone.

PEACE OF MIND IN A HECTIC WORLD The intersection of emotional wearables with augmented reality presents a vista for immersive experiences that won’t just replicate human interaction but truly augment it. In a world where tech-related mental health issues are on the rise, consider meditation aids that help guide breathing and relaxation with gentle vibrations, promoting mental wellness. These innovations can form a new layer of interaction, where technology not only understands our physical health but also becomes a custodian of our emotional wellbeing.

Now is the time to be more ambitious and deliver experiences that resonate on a new emotional level. Wearable technology presents opportunities to do this in a way other mediums – like social media– cannot.

By keeping these key factors and opportunities in mind, technology brands can continue their innovation journey and deliver the impactful experiences that their users deserve.

LOGITECH

8 Perspective

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

How New Sustainability Trends Are Redefining Retail There is no doubt that sustainability should be a top priority for retailers

By Lilian Bories, Chief Marketing Officer at TradeBeyond

R

etail supply chains are being scrutinized like never before. In 2022, Kohl’s and Walmart were fined $2.5 million and $3.5 million respectively by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission for falsely claiming that a range of products were made from bamboo when they were actually made from synthetic fibers. In recent years, brands such as H&M, Decathlon, IKEA, and CocaCola have also been caught making unsubstantiated or false claims. Such cases are a harbinger of the tougher ESG regulatory climate we can expect to see going forward, as the number of green or sustainable products grows. TradeBeyond’s latest Retail Sourcing Report, 2024 Supply Chain Sustainability Trends looks at the growth in ESG legislation, alongside other global trends in retail sustainability While the report shows how Europe is leading the drive toward sustainability reporting and compliance, other regions and important consumer markets such as the U.S.

are also implementing legislation covering greenwashing, emissions reporting, and other ESG domains. Going forward corporate sustainability requirements will make it much harder for companies of all sizes to mask the impact of their operations and make false sustainability claims.

Given that the retail sector contributes roughly 25% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, there is no doubt that sustainability should be a top priority, especially for the fashion and textile industry. According to various estimates, the carbon impact of the fashion industry ranges from 4% (McKinsey and the Global Fashion Agenda) to 10% (U.N.) of total global carbon emissions.

TradeBeyond’s report highlights many of the challenges and opportunities that retail brands are facing in their push for sustainability.

One retail sustainability challenge that TradeBeyond covers in greater detail is product returns. According to the NRF, in 2023, returns accounted for 14.5% of all U.S.

retail sales. Certainly, the growth of e-commerce during the pandemic contributed to this trend, but customer-centric return policies, particularly Amazon’s, bear responsibility.

Other retail sustainability challenges covered in the report include the growing threat of single-use plastics. Despite stronger ESG legislation and bans on single-use plastics in some countries, plastic production and consumption continue to grow. The report highlights that less than 10% of all plastic is recyclable and the fashion industry alone accounts for 60 million tons, or 20% of global plastic production.

On the bright side, TradeBeyond details how leading retail brands are creating innovative solutions to not only solve but prevent existing problems. These include sustainable design, innovative materials and packaging, and a slow-fashion movement to counter fast fashion.

The most innovative brands are doing everything from measuring and reporting on emissions, utilizing renewable energy, and replacing organic and synthetic fibers with inventive, sustainable materials. They are also rethinking packaging and building communities to extend product life .

Technology is also playing an instrumental role in the shift toward sustainable retail supply chains. Platforms such as TradeBeyond’s suite of end-to-end supply solutions provide tools that enable retail brands to collaboratively design and source more sustainable products. These tools integrate with suppliers and with third-party databases such as the Higg Index and WRAP to measure the social and environmental impact of products from the earliest stage of development.

Also, with the growing focus on traceability, TradeBeyond’s AI-powered chain of custody solutions help companies document the origin of raw materials and ensure compliance with global due diligence regulations while identifying and mitigating supply chain risks.

This report highlights how society is at a critical crossroads, where solutions in the form of more sustainable materials, innovative technology, and greater oversight are either in place or are being developed to build sustainable retail supply chains.

Consumers, businesses, and governments now must embrace these solutions.

35

2022

JUNE 2022 | TWICE.COM

TOP 50

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS RETAILERS REPORT

2024

TOP 50 MAJOR APPLIANCE RETAILER REPORT

NR = Not ranked last year (1) All sales information, except for that supplied by publicly held companies that break out line-of-business sales for consumer electronics, is based on TWICE estimates.

(2) Represents only stores carrying consumer electronics.

(3) Most store type codes were developed jointly by TWICE and the Consumer Technology Association.

CA = Catalog showrooms CD/I = Consumer direct/Internet shopping CD/MO = Consumer direct/Mail order

CD/TV = Consumer direct/TV shopping CS = Computer stores D/G = Drug/Grocery stores DS = Department stores EA/M = Electronics/Appliance stores/One-market EA/N = Electronics/Appliance stores/Multiregional EA/R = Electronics/Appliance stores/Regional EAF/N = Electronics/Appliance/Furniture stores EO/L = Electronics-only stores HF = Home-furnishings stores

HIC = Home-improvement centers HO = Home-office stores MM = Mass merchants MS/CAM = Miscellaneous/Camera stores MS/ME/AO = Miscellaneous/Mobile electronics store/Auto only MS/MU = Miscellaneous/Music-Movie stores MS/PX = Miscellaneous/Military exchanges MS/TOY = Miscellaneous/Toy stores WC = Warehouse clubs © TWICE 2022

10 Feature

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

2024

TOP 50 MAJOR APPLIANCE RETAILER REPORT

2023 Rank

Store Type

Retailer

2023 Total MajApp Sales

2022 Total MajApp Sales

Y/Y Growth

2023 Stores

2022 Stores

1

HIC

THE HOME DEPOT

$ 10,903

$ 11,358

-4.0% 

2,015

2,007

2

HIC

LOWE'S

$ 10,819

$ 11,889

-9.0% 

1,746

1,738

3

EA/N

BEST BUY

$ 4,524

$ 5,350

-15.4% 

901

925

4

MM

WALMART

$ 1,060

$ 1,140

-7.0% 

4,615

4,717

5

EAF/N

P.C. RICHARD & SON

$ 1,009

$ 1,062

-5.0% 

66

66

6

WC

COSTCO

$ 769

$ 801

-4.0% 

591

585

7

EAF/N

NEBRASKA FURNITURE MART

$ 584

$ 621

-6.0% 

4

4

8

EA/M

ABT ELECTRONICS AND APPLIANCES

$ 445

$ 471

-5.5% 

1

1

9

HIC

MENARDS

$ 338

$ 387

-12.5% 

335

330

10

EAF/N

BRANDSMART USA

$ 310

$ 369

-16.0% 

11

10

NR = Not ranked last year (1) All sales information, except for that supplied by publicly held companies that break out line-of-business sales for consumer electronics, is based on TWICE estimates.

(2) Represents only stores carrying consumer electronics.

(3) Most store type codes were developed jointly by TWICE and the Consumer Technology Association.

CA = Catalog showrooms CD/I = Consumer direct/Internet shopping CD/MO = Consumer direct/Mail order

CD/TV = Consumer direct/TV shopping CS = Computer stores D/G = Drug/Grocery stores DS = Department stores EA/M = Electronics/Appliance stores/One-market EA/N = Electronics/Appliance stores/Multiregional EA/R = Electronics/Appliance stores/Regional EAF/N = Electronics/Appliance/Furniture stores EO/L = Electronics-only stores HF = Home-furnishings stores

HIC = Home-improvement centers HO = Home-office stores MM = Mass merchants MS/CAM = Miscellaneous/Camera stores MS/ME/AO = Miscellaneous/Mobile electronics store/Auto only MS/MU = Miscellaneous/Music-Movie stores MS/PX = Miscellaneous/Military exchanges MS/TOY = Miscellaneous/Toy stores WC = Warehouse clubs © TWICE 2024

TWICE.COM | JUNE 2024

Feature

2024

TOP 50 MAJOR APPLIANCE RETAILER REPORT

2023 Total MajApp Sales

2022 Total MajApp Sales

Y/Y Growth

2023 Stores

2022 Stores

$ 309

$ 347

-11.0% 

20

20

CONN'S

$ 304

$ 385

-21.0% 

176

168

CD/I

APPLIANCES CONNECTION

$ 277

$ 475

-41.7% 

5

5

14

CD/I

AMAZON.COM

$ 267

$ 304

-12.0% 

-

2

15

HF

R.C. WILLEY HOME FURNISHINGS

$ 249

$ 306

-18.6% 

10

10

16

EAF/N

ABC WAREHOUSE

$ 238

$ 256

-7.0% 

42

42

17

AO/L

ALBERT LEE APPLIANCE CO.

$ 207

$ 221

-6.5% 

6

6

18

EAF/N

BIG SANDY SUPERSTORE

$ 187

$ 195

-4.1% 

34

33

19

EA/R

GRAND APPLIANCE AND TV

$ 185

$ 185

0.0%

28

27

20

MM

TARGET

$ 171

$ 194

-12.0% 

1,956

1,948

2023 Rank

Store Type

Retailer

11

HIC

PACIFIC SALES KITCHEN & BATH CENTERS

12

EAF/N

13

NR = Not ranked last year (1) All sales information, except for that supplied by publicly held companies that break out line-of-business sales for consumer electronics, is based on TWICE estimates.

(2) Represents only stores carrying consumer electronics.

(3) Most store type codes were developed jointly by TWICE and the Consumer Technology Association.

CA = Catalog showrooms CD/I = Consumer direct/Internet shopping CD/MO = Consumer direct/Mail order

CD/TV = Consumer direct/TV shopping CS = Computer stores D/G = Drug/Grocery stores DS = Department stores EA/M = Electronics/Appliance stores/One-market EA/N = Electronics/Appliance stores/Multiregional EA/R = Electronics/Appliance stores/Regional EAF/N = Electronics/Appliance/Furniture stores EO/L = Electronics-only stores HF = Home-furnishings stores

HIC = Home-improvement centers HO = Home-office stores MM = Mass merchants MS/CAM = Miscellaneous/Camera stores MS/ME/AO = Miscellaneous/Mobile electronics store/Auto only MS/MU = Miscellaneous/Music-Movie stores MS/PX = Miscellaneous/Military exchanges MS/TOY = Miscellaneous/Toy stores WC = Warehouse clubs © TWICE 2024

11

12 Feature

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

2024

TOP 50 MAJOR APPLIANCE RETAILER REPORT

2023 Rank

Store Type

Retailer

2023 Total MajApp Sales

2022 Total MajApp Sales

Y/Y Growth

2023 Stores

2022 Stores

21

AO/L

YALE APPLIANCE & LIGHTING

$ 153

$ 167

-8.2% 

3

3

22

AO/L

AIRPORT HOME APPLIANCE

$ 153

$ 170

-10.5% 

8

8

23

AO/L

WARNERS' STELLIAN APPLIANCE

$ 140

$ 150

-6.8% 

12

12

24

AO/L

APPLIANCE FACTORY & MATTRESS KINGDOM

$ 137

$ 149

-8.0% 

27

26

25

AO/L

FAMOUS TATE

$ 133

$ 129

2.8% 

11

11

26

EA/R

KARL'S TV & APPLIANCE

$ 120

$ 125

-4.0% 

30

30

27

HIC

FERGUSON

$ 118

$ 124

-5.0% 

280

271

28

WC

SAM'S CLUB

$ 115

$ 123

-6.8% 

599

600

29

AO/L

HAHN APPLIANCE

$ 98

$ 102

-4.0% 

4

4

30

EA/R

SPENCER'S TV & APPLIANCE

$ 94

$ 101

-6.5% 

10

10

NR = Not ranked last year (1) All sales information, except for that supplied by publicly held companies that break out line-of-business sales for consumer electronics, is based on TWICE estimates.

(2) Represents only stores carrying consumer electronics.

(3) Most store type codes were developed jointly by TWICE and the Consumer Technology Association.

CA = Catalog showrooms CD/I = Consumer direct/Internet shopping CD/MO = Consumer direct/Mail order

CD/TV = Consumer direct/TV shopping CS = Computer stores D/G = Drug/Grocery stores DS = Department stores EA/M = Electronics/Appliance stores/One-market EA/N = Electronics/Appliance stores/Multiregional EA/R = Electronics/Appliance stores/Regional EAF/N = Electronics/Appliance/Furniture stores EO/L = Electronics-only stores HF = Home-furnishings stores

HIC = Home-improvement centers HO = Home-office stores MM = Mass merchants MS/CAM = Miscellaneous/Camera stores MS/ME/AO = Miscellaneous/Mobile electronics store/Auto only MS/MU = Miscellaneous/Music-Movie stores MS/PX = Miscellaneous/Military exchanges MS/TOY = Miscellaneous/Toy stores WC = Warehouse clubs © TWICE 2024

TWICE.COM | JUNE 2024

Feature

2024

TOP 50 MAJOR APPLIANCE RETAILER REPORT

2023 Rank

Store Type

Retailer

2023 Total MajApp Sales

2022 Total MajApp Sales

Y/Y Growth

2023 Stores

2022 Stores

31

AO/L

WAREHOUSE DISCOUNT CENTER

$ 93

$ 97

-4.5% 

6

5

32

AO/L

BRAY & SCARFF

$ 92

$ 96

-4.0% 

15

15

33

EA/R

HOWARD'S APPLIANCE

$ 91

$ 103

-12.0% 

13

17

34

CD/I

AJ MADISON

$ 90

$ 92

-2.0% 

3

3

35

EA/R

ORVILLE'S HOME APPLIANCES

$ 83

$ 89

-6.8% 

8

8

36

EA/R

QUEEN CITY AUDIO VIDEO & APPLIANCES

$ 80

$ 70

14.3% 

10

9

37

MS/PX

ARMY-AIR FORCE EXCHANGE

$ 74

$ 32

131.3% 

120

120

38

AO/L

APPLIANCE DIRECT

$ 71

$ 73

-3.2% 

10

9

39

EA/M

COUNTY TV & APPLIANCE

$ 71

$ 70

1.0% 

1

1

40

EA/R

KARL'S SALES & SERVICE

$ 69

$ 75

-7.8% 

2

2

NR = Not ranked last year (1) All sales information, except for that supplied by publicly held companies that break out line-of-business sales for consumer electronics, is based on TWICE estimates.

(2) Represents only stores carrying consumer electronics.

(3) Most store type codes were developed jointly by TWICE and the Consumer Technology Association.

CA = Catalog showrooms CD/I = Consumer direct/Internet shopping CD/MO = Consumer direct/Mail order

CD/TV = Consumer direct/TV shopping CS = Computer stores D/G = Drug/Grocery stores DS = Department stores EA/M = Electronics/Appliance stores/One-market EA/N = Electronics/Appliance stores/Multiregional EA/R = Electronics/Appliance stores/Regional EAF/N = Electronics/Appliance/Furniture stores EO/L = Electronics-only stores HF = Home-furnishings stores

HIC = Home-improvement centers HO = Home-office stores MM = Mass merchants MS/CAM = Miscellaneous/Camera stores MS/ME/AO = Miscellaneous/Mobile electronics store/Auto only MS/MU = Miscellaneous/Music-Movie stores MS/PX = Miscellaneous/Military exchanges MS/TOY = Miscellaneous/Toy stores WC = Warehouse clubs © TWICE 2024

13

14 Feature

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

2024

TOP 50 MAJOR APPLIANCE RETAILER REPORT

2023 Rank

Store Type

Retailer

2023 Total MajApp Sales

2022 Total MajApp Sales

Y/Y Growth

2023 Stores

2022 Stores

41

HIC

PIRCH

$ 61

$ 72

-15.0% 

6

7

42

EA/R

ELECTRONIC EXPRESS

$ 55

$ 47

18.3% 

26

20

43

EA/R

JETSON TV & APPLIANCE CENTERS

$ 55

$ 60

-7.5% 

7

7

44

HF

BADCOCK & MORE

$ 47

$ 49

-5.1% 

378

382

45

AO/L

ATHERTON APPLIANCE AND KITCHENS

$ 45

$ 38

19.1% 

2

2

46

AO/L

TEXAS APPLIANCE AND BUILDERS' SUPPLY

$ 43

$ 48

-9.4% 

4

4

47

EA/R

COWBOY MALONEY'S

$ 40

$ 42

-5.0% 

13

13

48

AO/L

UNIVERSITY ELECTRIC

$ 39

$ 35

11.4% 

1

1

49

DS

CURACAO

$ 37

$ 42

-11.0% 

13

13

50

EA/R

BEKINS

$ 26

$ 23

12.7% 

2

2

NR = Not ranked last year (1) All sales information, except for that supplied by publicly held companies that break out line-of-business sales for consumer electronics, is based on TWICE estimates.

(2) Represents only stores carrying consumer electronics.

(3) Most store type codes were developed jointly by TWICE and the Consumer Technology Association.

CA = Catalog showrooms CD/I = Consumer direct/Internet shopping CD/MO = Consumer direct/Mail order

CD/TV = Consumer direct/TV shopping CS = Computer stores D/G = Drug/Grocery stores DS = Department stores EA/M = Electronics/Appliance stores/One-market EA/N = Electronics/Appliance stores/Multiregional EA/R = Electronics/Appliance stores/Regional EAF/N = Electronics/Appliance/Furniture stores EO/L = Electronics-only stores HF = Home-furnishings stores

HIC = Home-improvement centers HO = Home-office stores MM = Mass merchants MS/CAM = Miscellaneous/Camera stores MS/ME/AO = Miscellaneous/Mobile electronics store/Auto only MS/MU = Miscellaneous/Music-Movie stores MS/PX = Miscellaneous/Military exchanges MS/TOY = Miscellaneous/Toy stores WC = Warehouse clubs © TWICE 2024

TWICE.COM | JUNE 2024

Feature

2024

TOP 50 MAJOR APPLIANCE RETAILER REPORT

Top 50 MA store Retailers by Class 2023 Rank

Store Type

Company Name

Total Appliance-only stores

2023 Total MA Sales (mil)

2022 Total MA Sales (mil)

% Total MA 2023

% Total MA 2022

$ 1,402

$ 1,475

3.9%

3.8%

17

AO/L

Albert Lee Appliance Co.

$ 207

$ 221

0.6%

0.6%

21

AO/L

Yale Appliance & Lighting

$ 153

$ 167

0.4%

0.4%

22

AO/L

Airport Home Appliance

$ 153

$ 170

0.4%

0.4%

23

AO/L

Warners' Stellian Appliance

$ 140

$ 150

0.4%

0.4%

24

AO/L

Appliance Factory & Mattress Kingdom

$ 137

$ 149

0.4%

0.4%

25

AO/L

Famous Tate

$ 133

$ 129

0.4%

0.3%

29

AO/L

Hahn Appliance

$ 98

$ 102

0.3%

0.3%

31

AO/L

Warehouse Discount Center

$ 93

$ 97

0.3%

0.2%

32

AO/L

Bray & Scarff

$ 92

$ 96

0.3%

0.2%

38

AO/L

Appliance Direct

$ 71

$ 73

0.2%

0.2%

45

AO/L

Atherton Appliance and Kitchens

$ 45

$ 38

0.1%

0.1%

46

AO/L

Texas Appliance and Builders' Supply

$ 43

$ 48

0.1%

0.1%

48

AO/L

University Electric

$ 39

$ 35

0.1%

0.1%

$ 634

$ 871

1.8%

2.2%

Total Consumer Direct 13

CD/I

Appliances Connection

$ 277

$ 475

0.8%

1.2%

14

CD/I

Amazon.Com

$ 267

$ 304

0.7%

0.8%

34

CD/I

AJ Madison

$ 90

$ 92

0.3%

0.2%

$ 37

$ 42

0.1%

0.1%

Curacao

$ 37

$ 42

0.1%

0.1%

Total Electronics/Appliance stores/One Market

$ 515

$ 540

1.4%

1.4%

8

EA/M

Abt Electronics and Appliances

$ 445

$ 471

1.2%

1.2%

39

EA/M

County TV & Appliance

$ 71

$ 70

0.2%

0.2%

$ 4,524

$ 5,350

12.7%

13.7%

Best Buy

$ 4,524

$ 5,350

12.7%

13.7%

Total Electronics/Appliance stores/Regional

$ 900

$ 921

2.5%

2.4%

19

EA/R

Grand Appliance and TV

$ 185

$ 185

0.5%

0.5%

26

EA/R

Karl's TV & Appliance

$ 120

$ 125

0.3%

0.3%

30

EA/R

Spencer's TV & Appliance

$ 94

$ 101

0.3%

0.3%

33

EA/R

Howard's Appliance

$ 91

$ 103

0.3%

0.3%

35

EA/R

Orville's Home Appliances

$ 83

$ 89

0.2%

0.2%

Total Department Stores 49

DS

Total Electronics/Appliance stores/Multi-region 3

EA/N

15

16 Feature

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

2024

TOP 50 MAJOR APPLIANCE RETAILER REPORT

2023 Rank

Store Type

Company Name

2023 Total MA Sales (mil)

2022 Total MA Sales (mil)

% Total MA 2023

% Total MA 2022

36

EA/R

Queen City Audio Video & Appliances

$ 80

$ 70

0.2%

0.2%

40

EA/R

Karl's Sales & Service

$ 69

$ 75

0.2%

0.2%

42

EA/R

Electronic Express

$ 55

$ 47

0.2%

0.1%

43

EA/R

Jetson TV & Appliance Centers

$ 55

$ 60

0.2%

0.2%

47

EA/R

Cowboy Maloney's

$ 40

$ 42

0.1%

0.1%

50

EA/R

Bekins

$ 26

$ 23

0.1%

0.1%

$ 2,633

$ 2,889

7.4%

7.4%

Total Electronics/Appliance/Furniture stores/Multi-Regional 5

EAF/N

P.C. Richard & Son

$ 1,009

$ 1,062

2.8%

2.7%

7

EAF/N

Nebraska Furniture Mart

$ 584

$ 621

1.6%

1.6%

10

EAF/N

BrandsMart USA

$ 310

$ 369

0.9%

0.9%

12

EAF/N

Conn's

$ 304

$ 385

0.9%

1.0%

16

EAF/N

ABC Warehouse

$ 238

$ 256

0.7%

0.7%

18

EAF/N

Big Sandy Superstore

$ 187

$ 195

0.5%

0.5%

$ 296

$ 355

0.8%

0.9%

Total Home Furnishing 15

HF

R.C. Willey Home Furnishings

$ 249

$ 306

0.7%

0.8%

44

HF

Badcock & More

$ 47

$ 49

0.1%

0.1%

$ 22,549

$ 24,177

63.2%

62.1%

Total Home Improvement Centers 1

HIC

The Home Depot

$ 10,903

$ 11,358

30.6%

29.2%

2

HIC

Lowe's

$ 10,819

$ 11,889

30.3%

30.6%

9

HIC

Menards

$ 338

$ 387

0.9%

1.0%

11

HIC

Pacific Sales Kitchen & Bath Centers

$ 309

$ 347

0.9%

0.9%

27

HIC

Ferguson

$ 118

$ 124

0.3%

0.3%

41

HIC

Pirch

$ 61

$ 72

0.2%

0.2%

$ 1,231

$ 1,334

3.4%

3.4%

Total Mass Merchants 4

MM

Walmart

$ 1,060

$ 1,140

3.0%

2.9%

20

MM

Target

$ 171

$ 194

0.5%

0.5%

$ 74

$ 32

0.2%

0.1%

$ 74

$ 32

0.2%

0.1%

$ 884

$ 925

2.5%

2.4%

Total Miscellaneous 37

MS/PX

Army-Air Force Exchange Total Warehouse Clubs

6

WC

Costco

$ 769

$ 801

2.2%

2.1%

28

WC

Sam's Club

$ 115

$ 123

0.3%

0.3%

$ 35,679

$ 38,910

100.0%

100.0%

Totals

TWICE.COM | JUNE 2024

Feature

2024

TOP 50 MAJOR APPLIANCE RETAILER REPORT

Sales by Store Type Store Type

2023 Total MA Sales (mil)

2022 Total MA Sales (mil)

% Total MA 2023

% Total MA 2022

Total Home Improvement Centers

22,549

24,177

63.2%

62.1%

Total Electronics/Appliance stores/Multi-region

4,524

5,350

12.7%

13.7%

Total Electronics/Appliance/Furniture stores/Multi-Regional

2,633

2,889

7.4%

7.4%

Total Appliance-only stores

1,402

1,475

3.9%

3.8%

Total Mass Merchants

1,231

1,334

3.4%

3.4%

Total Warehouse Clubs

884

925

2.5%

2.4%

Total Electronics/Appliance stores/Regional

900

921

2.5%

2.4%

Total Consumer Direct

634

871

1.8%

2.2%

Total Electronics/Appliance stores/One Market

515

540

1.4%

1.4%

Total Home Furnishing

296

355

0.8%

0.9%

Total Miscellaneous

74

32

0.2%

0.1%

Total Department Stores

37

42

0.1%

0.1%

Totals

35,679

38,910

100.0%

100.0%

Total Electronics/Appliance stores/Multi-region

4,524

5,350

12.7%

13.7%

Total Electronics/Appliance/Furniture stores/Multi-Regional

2,633

2,889

7.4%

7.4%

Total Electronics/Appliance stores/Regional

900

921

2.5%

2.4%

Total Electronics/Appliance stores/One Market

515

540

1.4%

1.4%

Total Electronics/Appliance Stores

8,572

9,700

24.0%

24.9%

Total Consumer Direct

634

871

1.8%

2.2%

Total Department Stores

74

32

0.2%

0.1%

Total Miscellaneous

37

42

0.1%

0.1%

Total All Others

746

945

2.1%

2.4%

Sales by Rank

Sales by Outlet Store Type

2023 Total MA Sales (mil)

2022 Total MA Sales (mil)

% Total MA 2023

% Total MA 2022

Total Home Improvement Centers

22,549

24,177

63.2%

62.1%

Total Electronics/Appliance stores

8,572

9,700

24.0%

24.9%

Total Appliance-only stores

1,402

1,475

3.9%

3.8%

Total Mass Merchants

1,231

1,334

3.4%

3.4%

Total Warehouse Clubs

884

925

2.5%

2.4%

Total - All Others

746

945

2.1%

2.4%

Total Home Furnishing

296

355

0.8%

0.9%

35,679

38,910

100.0%

100.0%

Totals

2023Total MA Sales (mil)

2022 Total MA Sales (mil)

% Total MA 2023

% Total MA 2022

1 to 5

28,316

30,799

79.4%

79.2%

6 to 10

2,446

2,649

6.9%

6.8%

11 to 25

3,109

3,633

8.7%

9.3%

26 to 50

1,808

1,828

5.1%

4.7%

Registry Totals

35,679

38,910

100.0%

100.0%

Store Type

17

18 Feature: State of the Industry

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

State Of The Industry 2024: Is AI More Hype Than Substance?

Is AI a compelling enough feature to convince consumers to step up to higher-margin options?

By Stewart Wolpin

A

ll anyone in the consumer technology business hears these days is AI, AI, AI, AI. “AI will be everywhere,” understates Jitesh Ubrani, IDC’s Worldwide Device Trackers research manager. “All new devices and services are expected to employ its usage in some form. TVs continue to use it to improve picture and sound as well as provide content suggestions. PCs are expected to use it to improve productivity and gaming, while phones continue to use it for photography, quick replies, and customization.”

But how much of AI is hype and how much of AI is substantive, something retailers can upsell? Not surprisingly, AI opinions vary.

“AI is likely to shift the conversation away from performance specs to ‘What can it do for me?’ and ‘How well does it play in my interconnected ecosystem?’” observes Walt Stinson, CEO of Denver A/V retailer ListenUp. Paul Gagnon, Circana’s VP, and industry advisor for consumer technology, tacks a more nuanced AI course. “AI as a buzzword will be found on a vast array of products. It will be similar to how ‘smart’ was used many years ago. Separating the value proposition from the hype will be a huge challenge/opportunity for brands and retailers.”

BIG, BETTER, BEST – BUT ECONOMICAL – TVS AI-induced higher prices may be bad news for consumers, but good news for retailers.

Spring is the traditional new TV

introduction season and, as usual, retailers are figuring out how to cope not only with traditionally low margins but also how to explain the benefits of both AI and premium TV display technologies to upsell customers.

“We love OLED because it is purely a performance conversation. It’s a part of the display business that isn’t fully commoditized,” opines ListenUp’s Stinson.

“Mini-LED is a similar conversation since it is a clear step up from LED. OLED and mini-LED are both great step-ups with their unique performance advantages.”

OLED and mini-LED are not the only higher-quality TV options retailers can present to their consumers, however.

“Despite limited 8K content availability, consumers are showing interest in 8K TVs for their immersive viewing experiences,” insists David Watt, senior director of consumer electronics for the Nationwide Marketing Group. “Television manufacturers are capitalizing on this trend by offering more 8K options and leveraging upscaling technology to enhance the visual appeal of lowerresolution content on these ultra-highdefinition displays.”

While retailers are hoping to boost consumers to higher-quality, highermargin sets, they’re also hoping to sell them a bigger TV. “The average screen size selling in 2023 was 55 inches, and that size continues to creep up about an inch each year,” explains Rick Kowalski, CTA’s senior director of business intelligence.

“Upgrading to larger sizes is still the most important driver of upgrade activity for consumers according to our surveys,” echoes Circana’s Gagnon. “Around September last year, prices for 85/86-inch

and larger TVs started to fall significantly, and we are seeing a sustained surge of demand for 75-inch and larger sizes.”

OTHER THAN AI AND TV, HOW’S BUSINESS? While everyone in the tech-selling business is oozing AI, the general state of the consumer technology industry remains relatively stable compared to last year. “2023 marked the second consecutive step-down from pandemic-driven demand as the industry adjusted inventory levels,” offers CTA’s Kowalski. “Consumers are beginning to think about replacements for devices they purchased during the pandemic.”

Not everyone views current technology business conditions so relatively rosily, however. Circana’s Gagnon cites Q1 results that are still indicating a decline in consumer demand across most CE categories and projects overall H1 demand will be down about 2% in dollars versus a year ago, though Gagnon notes that actual results in Q1 are weaker than expected.

All analysts we spoke with did project sales upticks for PCs, laptops, and tablets, however, especially now that Apple has announced its first new iPads in more than a year, as well as upticks in PC peripherals. In addition, digital health products and wearables such as smartwatches and new-fangled smart rings are also gaining sales traction.

And then, there’s using AI to upsell PCs, which presents a “big opportunity for retailers that can do a great job with education and messaging,” Circana’s Gagnon believes, “because consumers seem interested in learning more and willing to pay a premium” for AI.

20 Feature: Review

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

ErgoFx ERDS1-01G Adjustable Height Standing Desk Review Elevating your workplace ergonomics with style

By Grant Morgan

E

rgoAV’s ErgoFx Adjustable Height Standing Desks are engineered to meet the diverse needs of today's professionals. Its standout feature is its electric adjustable height mechanism, facilitating seamless transitions between sitting and standing positions that promote better posture, reduce the adverse effects of prolonged sitting, and foster a more dynamic work environment.

Standing desks not only alleviate discomfort associated with prolonged sitting but also invigorate productivity by promoting movement throughout the workday. TWICE was able to perform

extensive testing on the ErgoFx ERDS1-01G standing desk model and we can boldly say it’s changed our work life for good.

FEATURES At the time of writing, the ErgoFx line offers three desktop customization options to suit individual needs and preferences. Whether you opt for a classic wood finish, a contemporary black matte surface, or the stunning Galaxy Glass desktop, there is a design option to cater to diverse tastes and decor.

The ErgoFx ERDS1-01G standing desk is crafted with extreme attention to detail and boasts a sleek and modern design that complements any workspace aesthetic. Its

spacious 56.7” x 27.6” Galaxy Glass surface area provides ample room for essential work tools such as monitors, laptops, and documents, helping you maintain a clutterfree and organized workspace.

Moreover, the desk features advanced motorized controls with best-in-class anticollision technology, that allows users to adjust the height effortlessly between 25.2” and 50.6”. This user-friendly interface streamlines the height customization process, enabling individuals to tailor their workstations according to their preferences with minimal effort on their part.

Beyond the ERDS1-01G standing desk’s smooth raising action, the other standout feature that makes you go, “Wow!” is a wireless 15W Qi charging base on the upper right of the desktop that lifts and rotates when you place your wireless charging compatible smartphone on it. The wireless module rises 60° and rotates 30° clockwise horizontally, returning to its original position when the phone is removed. This potentially gives you an additional “screen” and reduces having to tilt your neck to see your phone when a message comes through.

Cable management is a cinch thanks to a built-in concealed space underneath the desktop that hosts a 5-outlet power strip.

Having a single power cord running from the desk to the wall outlet is so nice, and makes the setup maintain its sleek appearance. A motion-activated LED-lit front charging panel on the front right of the desk provides convenient access to two USB C ports and 1 USB A port, delivering 100W of total power.

The ErgoFx ERDS1-01G also features a feltlined built-in drawer with five sections that allow convenient storage and access to a variety of smaller accessories with an LED light that turns on when opened.

ERGOAV

TESTING EXPERIENCE Putting the ERDS1-01G through rigorous testing over the past few months revealed a transformative experience in our workspace ergonomics. The assembly process was straightforward, and we had a nearly hasslefree setup, which allowed for immediate exploration of its features. The electronics were easy to connect, and the legs snapped into place with a satisfying ‘click’. Not having to spend hours screwing pieces of a

Feature: Smart Home

TWICE.COM | JUNE 2024

VERDICT Whether you're a remote worker seeking to optimize your home office or a corporate professional aiming to elevate your workspace, an ErgoFx Adjustable Height Standing Desk isn't just a piece of furniture—it's a catalyst for a healthier, more productive work lifestyle.

With its transformative capabilities, it paves the way for a future where ergonomics and innovation converge seamlessly and we can’t recommend it higher when choosing your next standing desk.

The Revolution Of Home Healthcare: Smart Homes As Health Monitors The integration of smart home technology into healthcare delivery represents a transformative shift

By Nahla Davies

I

magine a world where your home is not just a living space but an intelligent health companion that constantly monitors your well-being and provides personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

This vision is rapidly becoming a reality, thanks to the convergence of smart home technology and healthcare innovation. As society grapples with the increasing demand for accessible and affordable healthcare solutions, integrating smart homes with healthcare systems presents an opportunity to revolutionize how we approach health and well-being.

From monitoring sleep patterns and activity levels to detecting falls and tracking medication adherence, smart homes have the potential to serve as proactive and personalized health assistants. But how will these holistic housing concepts look and what will they achieve? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty.

KEY COMPONENTS OF HEALTHMONITORING SMART HOMES Health-monitoring smart homes rely on multiple technological components working together to ensure accurate data collection, insightful analysis, and effective communication with healthcare providers.

These include:

1. SENSORS AND DEVICES Sensors and smart home devices serve as the

ONEVISION

desk together was a welcome change. The electronics are covered with smooth plates that are held in place with magnets. Very sleek!

The only struggle we encountered was we needed two people to lift and turn the desk, due to its weight and size. It’s heavy! We recommend that you assemble it in the room you’ll be using it in, if possible. This will help to reduce the number of times you’ll have to move it and avoid the frustration of getting through a potentially too-narrow doorway.

The ERDS1-01G’s adjustable height mechanism proved to be a game-changer and provided quiet, seamless transitions between sitting and standing positions without the struggle of physically lifting or lowering a standing desk and worrying about jostling a monitor and other desktop accessories - a very real concern with other brand standing desk models.

In addition to using the lever to raise and lower the desktop, you can use the free ErgoFx app to select a precise height, and program preferred standing and sitting heights that will automatically adjust when selected. The app also has options to set standing reminders and can track your standing and sitting time. We found the reminders to be helpful, especially when we were in the zone and forgot to stand enough during the day.

The ErgoFx ERDS1-01G’s motorized controls operated smoothly, allowing for effortless height adjustments with the push of a button and without a jerking stop or start motion. The ability to preset preferred heights further enhanced convenience, enabling us to switch between configurations seamlessly.

21

eyes and ears of the system, gathering valuable data on various aspects of an individual's health and well-being.

Environmental sensors monitor air quality, temperature, humidity, and potentially harmful substances to ensure a safe and comfortable living environment.

Motion sensors can detect activity levels, fall incidents, and changes in daily routines, enabling timely interventions or alerts.

Meanwhile, wearable devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, integrate with smart homes to continuously monitor vital signs (such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation), sleep patterns, and physical activity levels.

2. DATA ANALYTICS The true power of health-monitoring smart homes lies in their ability to analyze the vast amounts of data collected by the sensors and devices. By integrating AI tools or even using medically-oriented LLMs, smart home

24 Feature: Smart Home

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

systems can handle and interpret this data and identify patterns, trends, and anomalies.

This analysis can reveal early signs of health issues, track the progression of chronic conditions, and even predict potential health crises before they occur.

The ability to monitor health metrics over time also offers healthcare providers a more comprehensive view of a patient's health, enabling more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans.

3. CONNECTIVITY AND INTEROPERABILITY

BENEFITS OF SMART HOMES IN HEALTHCARE Integrating smart home technology into healthcare delivery may be far-fetched or overly complex now, but even the most stubborn of skeptics are excited about the possibilities.

1. EARLY DETECTION OF HEALTH DETERIORATION One of the most significant advantages of health-monitoring smart homes is their ability to detect subtle changes in an individual's health status, often before overt symptoms manifest. By continuously monitoring various health parameters, these intelligent systems can identify deviations from established baselines and alert healthcare providers and caregivers to likely issues, potentially saving lives.

2. ENHANCED PATIENT COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE Another great advantage of healthmonitoring smart homes is that they provide personalized healthcare within the familiarity and comfort of one's living environment. For instance, adjusting environmental settings such as lighting and temperature based on individual preferences and health needs allows

GETTY

For health-monitoring smart homes to truly revolutionize healthcare, seamless connectivity and interoperability with healthcare providers and systems is essential. This means absolute interconnectedness—from QR codes on PDFs of daily patient reports to even the factory that’s producing a medicine the patient has ordered.

individuals to enjoy a more comfortable and therapeutic living space.

3. ENHANCED ACCESS TO MEDICAL DATA Smart home systems can be designed to automatically compile biometric readings from wearable devices and home health monitors into an electronic medical record (EMR). Patients can conveniently access this comprehensive collection of their health data through a user-friendly interface created using a cheap website builder, empowering them to take a more proactive role in managing their well-being.

This integration not only promotes greater transparency and accessibility to medical information but also fosters a collaborative approach to healthcare, where patients and their care teams can work together more effectively to achieve better health outcomes.

That said, it’s important to think about the accessibility and usability of such a website, especially for elderly users. Older people might not be willing to stare at screens and interfaces all day. However, there could be an option for them to run their medical data, test results, and messages from doctors through a secure docx editor and print them.

4. REDUCTION IN HOSPITAL VISITS AND HEALTHCARE COSTS The proactive and preventive nature of health-monitoring smart homes has the potential to significantly reduce the need for

hospital visits and costly healthcare interventions. For example, a study published in the National Library of Medicine shows how remote monitoring of chronic heart failure patients via smart home technologies decreased hospital readmissions.

By enabling early detection and timely management of health issues, intelligent home systems can prevent minor conditions from escalating into more severe and resource-intensive situations.

Additionally, the ability of smart home systems to support aging in place and provide remote monitoring for chronic conditions can reduce the need for costly long-term care facilities or frequent hospitalizations.

CONCLUSION The integration of smart home technology into healthcare delivery represents a transformative shift in how we approach our well-being.

From early detection of potential health issues to enhancing patient comfort and reducing the burden on healthcare systems, these intelligent living spaces hold the potential to redefine the essence of healthcare.

Smart homes acting as health monitors will create a future where healthcare will not only be more accessible and efficient but also more personalized and integrated into the fabric of our everyday existence.

Feature: Smart Home

TWICE.COM | JUNE 2024

Sony Bows New Premium Bravia Mini-LED TVs, Home Theater Speakers Top of the line Bravia 9 Priced Higher Than Top OLED Models; the company also unveiled Bravia Theater speaker components, systems

By Stewart Wolpin

NEW SONY BRAVIA TVS

T

Sony unveiled four new Bravia TV models, “flagship” and “premium” mini-LED editions, the Bravia 9 and Bravia 8, respectively, a “core” full-array LED Bravia 7, and a “standard” direct LED Bravia 6.

Sony claims its top-of-the-line Bravia 9 (85” $5,499.99 MSRP, 75” $3,999.99, 65” $3,299.99) is the “brightest 4K TV Sony has ever produced,” 50% brighter than the last year’s top of the line Bravia X95L mini-LED TV and 1.5x brighter than the company’s current OLED, with a 325% leap in dimming zones. During one demo, engineers removed the from panel to reveal just the backlighting of the Bravia 9 versus a competitive set from another brand to illustrate its increased preciseness. Sony also says the Bravia 9 consumes 20% less power than last year’s mini-LED. Sony also asserts is Bravia 8 mini-LED (77” $3,899.99 MSRP, 65” $2,799.99, 55”

$1,999.99) is 31% thinner than its own A80L OLED with a 29% slimmer bezel and offers the company’s Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology.

Similar to the Mini-LED models, the FALD Bravia 7 LED TV (85” $3,499.99 MSRP, 75” $2,799.99, 65” $2,299.99, 55” $1,899.99) offers a 790% increase in dimming zones compared to its 2023 X90L full array LED model with a 15% comparative drop in power usage.

At the entry-level, the Bravia 3 (85” $1,799.99 MSRP, 75” $1,299.99, 65” $999.99, 55” $849.99, 50” $699.99, 43” $599.99) offers “dynamic” HDR with 8% power savings over last year’s X77L models.

Top Gun: Maverick director Joseph Kosinski and DP Claudio Miranda were on hand to boost the Bravia 9’s cinematic qualities. “We’ll spend weeks, if not months, color grading a movie,” Kosinski explained.

“I don’t know how much a consumer understands about HDR detail, color, or shadows, but it’s good that the consumer has the option to see the filmmaker’s intention.”

Added Miranda, “From the demos we saw of Top Gun [on the Bravia 9], I could see it was the exact way we shot it.”.

HOME THEATER SPEAKERS On the home theater sound side, Sony announced four Bravia Theater speaker products: Bravia Theater Quad ($2,499.99) is, naturally, a four-speaker system, each speaker comprised of four drivers that provide 360 Spatial Sound Mapping with the Sony Bravia TV providing the center channel. The 16 speakers across the array provide 16 phantom channels so sounds sound as if they are emanating from the precise on-screen location.

Bravia Theater Bar 9 ($1,399.99) is a soundbar equipped with 13 separate speakers supporting both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Bravia Theater Bar 8 ($999.99) is a slightly smaller, less-endowed soundbar equipped with 11 speakers.

Bravia Theater U Neck Band ($299.99) is the latest around-the-neck Bluetooth speaker that sits on a user’s clavicle and features up-firing speakers .

STEWART WOLPIN

out i ng its “lens to the living room” high-tech movie and TV production to consumer home theater products ecosystem credentials, Sony announced its 2024 Bravia Mini-LED TV and home theater audio equipment lineup.

Sony’s latest TVs and audio gear were previewed to the international media, including TWICE, over several days at the historic Sony Picture Studios, the former production facilities of both MGM and Columbia Pictures, in Culver City, CA. While Sony’s video and audio demos were as impressive as always, the company’s product pricing strategy is a bit curious.

Touting its version of mini-LED as brighter than and approaching par in black levels and color reproduction with OLED, Sony has priced is new flagship Bravia 9 mini-LED models between LG’s similarly-sized 2023 G3 and 2024 G4 OLED models, much higher than mini-LED models from TCL, Hisense, and others, and even higher than new mini-LED sets from Samsung, which also raised its 2024 mini-LED prices for 2024.

Whether or not retailers will be able to convey to claimed technical and quality advantages of Sony’s new mini-LED models to justify their near OLED pricing – especially since consumers have come to expect miniLED models to offer a more affordable alternative to OLED – of course remains to be seen. Sony did not introduce an update to its XR-A95L OLED TV.

25

26 Feature: TV

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

Samsung Adds New 98-Inch Model To Ultra-Large TV Lineup New Crystal UHD 4K model joins the growing Samsung 98-inch-class TV portfolio alongside Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED 4K, and QLED 4K.

S

amsung Electronics America's 98-inch Class Samsung Crystal 4K TV (DU9000) is the newest addition to the 2024 Samsung TV lineup, delivering picture quality that’s specifically optimized for the big screen, along with true-to-life colors that make your favorite content come to life. The new 98-inch screen will be available for $3999.99 at Samsung.com and across select retailers.

The Samsung 98-inch Class Crystal UHD (DU9000) is built with Supersize Picture Enhancer, which optimizes picture quality for the bigger screen. As screens get larger, so do their pixels — Supersize Picture Enhancer can increase sharpness and reduce visible noise across every scene. That means you can enjoy what you’re watching without any pixel distortion, even at the 98-inch size.

The TV is also designed with 4K upscaling, PurColor, and HDR — transforming all your content into 4K and offering an even wider spectrum of colors for what’s on screen.

With Motion Xcelerator and up to a 120 Hz refresh rate, your gaming experience will be even smoother, too. The screen offers Game

Screen Innovations Debuts CarbonBlack Mesh Holographic Screens Designed for interactive 3D realism and depth

By TWICE Staff

Bar built in, so you can change the screen ratio for your favorite gameplay, and try features like AI Auto Game Mode, Mini Map Auto Detection, and Virtual Aim Point.

The 98-inch Class Crystal UHD (DU9000) joins the cutting-edge lineup of ultra-large Samsung TVs, which includes the Samsung Neo QLED 8K (QN990C), the Samsung Neo QLED 4K (QN90D), and the Samsung QLED 4K (Q80C)).

The entire Samsung 98-inch lineup is also designed with Supersize Picture Enhancer, providing you with the best possible viewing experience no matter which TV you go with. The recommended viewing distance for a 98-inch TV is just six to 12 feet — making it perfect for medium-to-large living rooms and open layout homes, The newest Samsung TVs offer the 2024 Tizen OS, which is redesigned to bring content front and center in a fresh layout.

New in 2024, each member of the household can create a profile for personalized recommendations and enjoy a more customized overall experience.

For more information, visit www.samsung. com/us/.

S

creen Innovations (SI) has announced the new SI CarbonBlack Mesh Holographic Screens for interactive 3D realism, depth, and visual magic.

Project anything, anywhere, and make illusions a reality for your audience with CarbonBlack Holographic. This technology brings viewers into a world where the boundaries between imagination and reality blur. Whether bringing distant landscapes to life in vivid detail or turning mundane spaces into dynamic environments, CarbonBlack Holographic transforms dreams into tangible experiences.

Simultaneously observe the same holographic projection with a similar or identical 3D experience from both sides of the screen.

CarbonBlack works with all projector lens options — ultra-short throw, standard throw, native 4K, and laser. The mounting can be a fixed frame or suspended in a truss.

For more information, visit www. screeninnovations.com.

28 Industry

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

Trident IoT Welcomes Vivint Founder Todd Pedersen To The Board

NATIONWIDE

Completes $10M Fundraising Round, gains Z-Wave device testing lab certification

By TWICE Staff

Nationwide’s OneShop Simplified Digital Retail Solution Launches Service offers comprehensive suite of digital tools to help independent retailers quickly and easily win customers online

By TWICE Staff

W

ith more than 90 percent of today’s consumers starting their shopping journeys online, it’s more important than ever for independent business owners to have a strong digital presence. This is why Nationwide Marketing Group (NMG) has developed a new simplified digital solution specifically for the independent channel — NMG OneShop.

First introduced to NMG members at last month’s PrimeTime conference in Las Vegas, NMG OneShop combines the best features from NMG’s two former website development solutions — Retailer Web Services and Site on Time — to create one streamlined digital powerhouse solution.

“Digital is the battleground for winning customers today,” declares Aaron Bundschuh, NMG’s chief digital officer. “But it can be overwhelming. So, we’ve made significant investments in this area to bring best-in-class capabilities to the membership

— so that they can reap the benefits of a robust digital strategy without having to be digital experts themselves.”

The new all-in-one platform offers five key features — website solutions, marketing automation, digital advertising, reputation management, and sales enablement — for an effortless and cohesive shopping experience across multiple touchpoints. But despite all its platform benefits, the most compelling feature of NMG OneShop is its ease of use.

And early results from the platform’s pilot sites offer proof of its performance. Since launching last year, NMG members piloting the new NMG OneShop model have seen a 21 percent year-over-year increase in organic traffic, a 29 percent year-over-year increase in engaged sessions, and an 18 percent yearover-year increase in website page views.

Visit www.nationwidegroup.org/oneshop for more information.

T

odd Pedersen, founder of Vivint and Vivint Solar, has joined the Board of Directors at Trident IoT, a silicon provider and RF technology company focused on decreasing time-to-market for connected device manufacturers. As the founder of one of the largest home security service providers in the United States, Pedersen has been instrumental in the maturation and growth of the security and smart home industries.

Additionally, Trident IoT recently announced the successful completion of a $10M fundraising round, which will allow the company to expand silicon/hardware solutions development, engineering support, and certification preparation services across the gamut of IoT and connectivity platforms, including Z-Wave, Zigbee, Thread, Matter, LoRa and more.

“Trident IoT has a commitment to innovation, combined with a deep expertise in wireless and RF technologies, that creates a unique capacity to fast-track IoT development,” said Pedersen. “This investment is a testament to the shared belief that Trident IoT can transform the landscape of connected device technology.”

Trident IoT will invest newly raised funds toward the development of its AI division, creating purpose-built AI tools to accelerate IoT product design. The Z-Wave Alliance has also approved Trident IoT as an official Z-Wave device certification testing lab.

TWICE.COM | JUNE 2024 Industry

iRobot’s Angle, CTA’s Shapiro Lash Out At Regulators Honored as a Digital Patriot by CTA, Roomba inventor Colin Angle used his acceptance speech to excoriate regulators who blocked Amazon's acquisition

By Stewart Wolpin

i

STEWART WOLPIN

Robot co-founder and robotics pioneer Colin Angle accepted his award as a Digital Patriot at CTA’s annual honors dinner in Washington, D.C., Tuesday night by raging at EU and U.S. regulators who essentially scotched Amazon’s $1.4 billion acquisition of iRobot earlier this year.

Angle described how for more than two decades, iRobot out-innovated competition not only in industrial and commercial robotics but pioneered the entire robot vacuum category with the Roomba. Then, Angle explained, in 2019, iRobot “began facing a new breed of competitor – the Chinese fast follower – companies subsidized strategically by the Chinese government who invested in innovation, companies able to prosper in their home market, which became effectively closed to us, giving them the opportunity to scale.

“At the same time,” Angle continued, “we faced U.S. imposed tariffs, which threatened to reduce our ability to invest in R&D and tied up needed working capital.”

To help battle government-supported Chinese competitors and “re-establish leadership in the consumer robotic industry by taking it in directions our competition would be challenged to follow,” in 2022 iRobot decided to merge with Amazon, a merger Angle noted would enable Roomba and “the U.S. to maintain its leadership in this critical emerging market.”

By early this year, however, both European and American regulators had signaled they would block the merger, fearing primarily that the e-commerce giant would curb competition in the robot vacuum market by favoring Roomba, forcing the companies in late January to call

off the merger. iRobot subsequently laid off 350 employees, 31% of its workforce, and Angle announced he was leaving his own company.

“What happened was a tragedy,” bemoaned Angle. “Perhaps, even more telling, the innovation economy which powers our country’s economic engine, has been significantly damaged.”

Almost pounding the podium, a visibly emotional Angle ended his speech with a warning, “If this country is to lose leadership in technology, at least let us not just give it away!”

SHAPIRO: BIG ISN’T BAD, REGULATION IS CTA chair Gary Shapiro seconded Angle’s anger, accusing regulators in the Biden administration of trying “to tear down some of America’s most successful and innovative tech companies.”

“While companies like Amazon, Apple, Google, and Meta are creating products that Americans love and rely on, leaders in the administration have launched campaigns alleging that ‘big is bad’ and punishing success,” Shapiro declared. “They’ve attempted to stop big companies from buying smaller ones, limiting economic growth, hurting jobs, and slamming the brakes on VC investment in promising startups. That’s bad for ALL companies – big and small.

“And the problem doesn’t stop in Washington,” Shapiro alleged, “or even at our national borders. At the FTC, regulators are working in partnership with foreign governments to launch antitrust suits against American companies. Can you imagine that happening in China? Or in Europe? Or in any of the countries hoping to become the next global leaders in cuttingedge sectors?

“And the terribly sad thing is that it’s working!” Shapiro said. “The threat of legal action is making it harder for American companies to go toe-to-toe with their global competitors.”

The dinner also was used to mark the exact 100th birthday of CTA as the Radio Manufacturers Association (RMA). The dinner was preceded by video CTA birthday wishes from a variety of members of Congress.

29

30 Industry

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

June 2024 • Volume 39 • Issue 6 www.twice.com CONTENT Senior Editor Grant Morgan, grant.morgan@futurenet.com Art Editors Matt Lochrie and Rosie Webber Production Manager Nicole Schilling

ProSource 2023 PRO, Power Members Of The Year Announced Annual honorees celebrated at 2024 ProSource PRO / Power Spring Conference

By TWICE Staff

P

roSource announced the 2023 PRO and Power Members of the Year. The annual honorees were celebrated at the 2024 ProSource PRO / Power Spring Conference, in Hollywood, FL from May 12 – 17, 2024.

2023 PRO MEMBER OF THE YEAR: ABT ELECTRONICS, OWNERS BILLY ABT, RICKY ABT, MIKE ABT, JON ABT “Abt Electronics is one of the original Pro Group members and I am happy to recognize their decades of group support and engagement,” said Jim Pearse, ProSource CEO. “Abt is defined by their execution, vendor partnerships, and legendary forward thinking. They have evolved into a strong multi-vertical retailer that leverages e-commerce, Custom Integration, and retail. When I think of the best of the best in the ProSource Pro level members, Abt clearly defines what good looks like. We are happy to celebrate Abt as the ProSource PRO Member of the Year.”

“We are delighted to be selected as ProSource’s Member of the Year and we feel that this is great exposure for our brand and the products we carry,” said Billy, Ricky, Mike, and John Abt. “This is an honor for our organization.”

2023 POWER MEMBER OF THE

YEAR: ETC PALM BEACH, OWNER PAUL BIAVA “I have had the pleasure of visiting the ETC team at their headquarters and they are delivering on their culture imperative of WOW and AMAZE,” said Jim Pearse, ProSource CEO. “Their operational strength, disciplined processes, and unmatched customer satisfaction are worthy of the ProSource Power Member of the Year recognition. ETC is clearly setting a new standard for all of us a ProSource.”

“We are thrilled to receive this recognition and I'm happy to accept it on behalf of our employees,” said ETC Palm Beach owner, Paul Biava. “The team is what makes ETC what it is and without all of our employees we wouldn't be here today. I am eternally grateful to their hard work and dedication and everything they do.”

"Exemplifying dedication to our vendor partners, excellence in design and execution, along with commitment to innovation, ETC Palm Beach embodies the very essence of what ProSource stands for as an organization,” said Tim Basford, ProSource Senior Director of Sales - Power.

For additional information go to www.prosourceinfo.com.

ADVERTISING SALES Managing Vice President of Sales, B2B Tech Adam Goldstein, adam.goldstein@futurenet.com, 212-378-0465 SUBSCRIBER CUSTOMER SERVICE To subscribe, change your address, or check on your current account status, go to www.twice.com and click on About Us, email futureplc@computerfulfillment.com, call 888-266-5828, or write P.O. Box 254, Lowell, MA 01853.

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32 Industry

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

Resideo To Acquire Snap One Upon closing, Snap One will integrate into Resideo's ADI Global Distribution business

R

esideo Technologies, Inc., and Snap One Holdings Corp. have announced a definitive agreement pursuant to which Resideo has agreed to acquire Snap One for $10.75 per share in cash, for a transaction value of approximately $1.4 billion, inclusive of net debt. Upon closing, Snap One will integrate into Resideo’s ADI Global Distribution business.

The transaction will combine ADI’s position in security products distribution and Snap One’s complementary capabilities in the smart living market and innovative Control4 technology platforms, which is expected to drive increased value for integrators and financial returns. Together, ADI and Snap One will provide integrators with an increased selection of both thirdparty products and proprietary offerings through an extensive physical branch footprint augmented by industry-leading digital capabilities.

TRANSACTION DETAILS The transaction is valued at approximately $1.4 billion, including the forecasted net debt of Snap One at the closing of approximately $460 million. This represents a 7.4x multiple on Snap One’s Adjusted EBITDA for the 12 months ended December 29, 2023, as further adjusted by including Resideo’s projected annual run-rate synergies of $75 million.

The transaction is expected to be completed in the second half of 2024 and is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable antitrust and other regulatory approvals. The transaction has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of Resideo and Snap One. Private investment funds managed by Hellman & Friedman LLC, holding

approximately 72% of the outstanding common shares of Snap One, have executed a written consent to approve the merger, thereby providing the required stockholder approval for the transaction.

Resideo intends to use proceeds from committed debt financing, cash on hand, and a $500 million perpetual convertible preferred equity investment from Clayton, Dubilier & Rice LLC (“CD&R”) to fund the transaction. Terms of the CD&R investment include a 7% coupon, payable in cash or payment-in-kind at Resideo’s option, and a conversion price of $26.92. CD&R brings a long track record of value creation through its investments and significant experience in the specialty distribution market.

Effective upon the closing, CD&R will have the right to designate two members to the Board of Directors of Resideo.

“The acquisition of Snap One is an exciting step in Resideo’s continued transformation through portfolio optimization, operational enhancements, and structural cost savings actions,” says Jay Geldmacher, Resideo’s president and chief executive officer. “ADI and Snap One are highly complementary businesses and together will meaningfully enhance our strategic and operational capabilities as a significant player in attractive growth categories. We are excited about the enhanced value proposition through increased product breadth, local availability, support services and broad market expertise, as well as the future opportunities this creates for integrators serving residential and commercial markets.

“Snap One has grown from a startup built by entrepreneurial integrators to an industry leader in smart technology, delivering seamless experiences to consumers and high-quality services and support to our integrators,” added John Heyman, CEO of Snap One. “This is the right next step to capture new opportunities to bring our solutions to market."

AlarMax Announces Distribution Partnership With Yamaha Yamaha AV products now available at select AlarMax branch locations

By TWICE Staff

A

larMax announced it has entered into a strategic collaboration with Yamaha, a leading AV solutions manufacturer whose products seamlessly interface with the industry's leading control systems, including Control4, Savant, Crestron and URC. “The synergy between the excellence in Yamaha audio solutions and AlarMax's expertise in the security, AV and low-voltage categories creates a mutually beneficial force for innovation in custom integration,” said Randy Hall, president of AlarMax. “The Yamaha AV line will offer dealers at hightraffic locations new solutions to create immersive, high-quality audio experiences that redefine customer satisfaction, concurrently supporting the presence of Yamaha in the connected home market.”

This partnership will allow AlarMax to distribute Yamaha audio equipment to the following branch locations: Pittsburgh, PA; Plymouth Meeting, PA; Cleveland, OH; Columbus, OH; Cincinnati, OH; Bohemia, NY; Timonium, MD; and Beltsville, MD.

Learn more at www.alarmax.com

TWICE.COM | JUNE 2024 Industry

AV Pro Global Names Chris Kane As VP, North American Residential Sales

33

Whirlpool Corporation seeks: SENIOR ANALYST, SOFTWARE ENGINEERING (Job Code: KS-SJ04NC) in Benton Harbor, MI. Design, deploy & manage CI/CD systems, primarily Jenkins. May work from home. Req: BS+5 yrs.

To apply, send resume to: Whirlpool, HR Operations at globalmobility@whirlpool.com.

(Must ref. Job Code in subject line)

Brings 30 years of sales experience at AudioControl

By TWICE Staff

For more information, visit avproedge.com.

ROTEL HI-FI

A

VPro Global Holdings, LLC, the parent company of AVPro Edge, AudioControl Pro, Bullet Train, Chris Kane Murideo, and Then Audio audio/video distribution products, has announced the appointment of Chris Kane as vice president of North American (NA) Residential Sales.

Kane will report to Mike Detmer, AVPro’s COO, and oversee NA business development initiatives including streamlining sales processes by unifying the AVPro brand portfolio under one experienced manager.

Kane, a known and trusted manager in the NA residential market, brings a wealth of experience and insight to leverage AVPro’s growth initiatives while providing added value to its customers.

“With 30 years of sales experience at AudioControl, it’s only natural to elevate Chris to manage the residential market for the entire AVPro brand portfolio in North America,” says Detmer. “Chris brings a wide range of expertise in strategic planning and execution, performance management, and team leadership to grow our market share while delivering additional value to AVPro customers.”

Kane is well-respected as a proficient manager of regional sales teams including independent manufacturer representatives.

Rotel Partners With ProSource Through Fine Sounds Americas Collaboration amplifies brand reach and support

By TWICE Staff

U

SA distributor Fine Sounds Americas has partnered with Rotel, a leading provider of highperformance audio products to enhance the accessibility and support for Rotel products across the US market.

This strategic partnership collaborates through the ProSource Buying Group, representing over 550 specialty retailers and custom integrators nationwide.

"Rotel is thrilled to join forces with ProSource Buying Group through Fine Sounds Americas," said Peter Kao, Managing Director of Rotel. "This partnership represents a significant milestone for our brand, as we continue to strengthen our position in the market and deliver unparalleled audio experiences to our customers."

Fine Sounds Americas is renowned for its commitment to distributing premium audio

equipment. Rotel will expand its presence and provide exceptional products to a broader audience by utilizing Fine Sounds Americas' expertise and distribution channels.

Rotel will have access to ProSource's extensive network of retailers and integrators, enabling the brand to reach more consumers seeking high-quality audio solutions.

"We are excited to welcome Rotel to the ProSource family," said Jim Kozicki, VP of Business Development at ProSource. "Their commitment to innovation and quality aligns perfectly with our mission to provide our members with the best-in-class products and support."

For more information about Rotel and its range of audio products, visit www.rotel.com.

34 Industry

JUNE 2024 | TWICE.COM

PPDS Names Jan Van Tieghem As Director Of Technical Sales Support Experienced AV engineer and leader brings over 20 years of experience

By TWICE Staff

P

PDS, global provider of extraordinary, evolving from a Philips digital signage, traditional manufacturer of interactive displays, displays to one that now offers dvLED and videowalls, one of the industry’s most professional TVs, and dedicated complete choice of total AV software, announced the solutions, with software – promotion of experienced AV developed in-house and with engineer, Jan Van Tieghem, as third-party providers – now a its new Director of Technical key strategic focus.”

Jan Van Tieghem Sales Support.

“We will continue to build “I am hugely excited to have upon the achievements of the been given the opportunity and team and work hard to ensure we lead from responsibility to lead the EMEA Technical the front to bring the world’s best support Sales Support team,” said Jan in a statement. and solutions to our partners and customers.

“The transformation and growth of the It’s a great new challenge and I’m very much business over the past 15 years have been looking forward to the journey ahead.”

Nice North America Hires Senthoor Navaratnam As Chief Product Officer Responsible for North American product portfolio across residential, commercial, and industrial applications

By TWICE Staff

N

ice, a global leader in Home and Building Management solutions, announced the appointment of Senthoor Navaratnam as the Chief Product Officer for North America. Navaratnam is responsible for the strategic vision of the company’s North American product portfolio across residential, commercial, and industrial applications. He will report to Emanuel Bertolini, CEO of Nice North America.

“Senthoor is a visionary leader with a proven track record of driving growth and implementing customer-focused strategies,” said Emanuel Bertolini, Chief Executive Officer at Nice North America. “His dedication to creating and delivering solutions that meet customer needs and bring advancements in innovations to partners make him an excellent fit to deliver on our company’s core mission to provide innovative solutions that simplify everyday

Jan’s association with Philips began in 2006 when he joined the company as a System Validation Engineer. Since then, Jan’s knowledge and skillset have continued to expand and evolve through a number of important team leadership positions, supporting PPDS’ strategy to deliver total solutions across the market verticals and through the full spectrum of display solutions.

Jan will now lead support teams across all PPDS product ranges – digital signage including ePaper, interactive displays, videowalls, dvLED, and professional TVs – located in the company’s innovation center in Ghent, Belgium, and throughout all regions in EMEA, including Benelux, CEE, DACH, France, Iberia, Italy, the Nordics, SEE, and UK and Ireland.

“Jan is a long-serving and highly respected member of the PPDS team, who has shown throughout his career unwavering commitment and professionalism to deliver on the company’s ambitions,” said Martijn van der Woude, VP Global Marketing and Business Development at PPDS. Visit ppds.com. to learn more.

movements.”

Navaratnam brings a distinguished 25-year career having worked in executivelevel positions with companies such as Hubbell, Schneider Electric, and GE. His experience ranges across positions covering sales, service delivery, technology development, and product management while overseeing complex P&L responsibilities management.

“I am thrilled to join Nice during this pivotal moment as the company continues to rapidly expand in the North American market through innovation in the development and transformation of Nice,” said Navaratnam, Chief Product Officer at Nice North America. “As we set out to expand our product ecosystem, I am eager to partner with our product teams to set the standard in home and building management solutions.”

Visit www.niceforyou.com for further information.