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MARKET FOCUS: SDA
As economic uncertainty continues, SDA suppliers have had to diversify their offering to meet consumer demand over recent years. PH finds out how the sector is faring and what’s affecting purchasing decisions in the current climate.
Inset: Bodum has seen an increase in sales of coffee grinders as consumers become more knowledgeable about coffee. Below: Ariete’s new Digital Filter Drip Coffee Machine from Bluestem Group offers three aroma strength options and a 24hour programmable timer.
Below: RKW’s new Tower Elite Air Fryer range boasts multiple functions such as baking, crisping, grilling, steaming and more, and is also highly energy efficient. Bottom: The GreenPan Thermolon Volt ceramic diamond-infused non-stick coating means it’s easier to make healthy meals as no oil is required to stop ingredients sticking.
A POWER OF GOOD A
cross all price points, all products and all suppliers, the one change that everyone has seen in consumer purchasing in the SDA sector since the beginning of the cost-of-living crisis, is that consumers are now making more considered purchases, looking for value for money products. Marcus Lux, head of Gastroback UK, export and business development summarises this shift: “It’s still the case – and may well be for a while yet – that consumers are looking for value-formoney, with the current squeeze on spending, although there is talk that more
money will be spent this Christmas than last. But in general, consumers want to know their money is well-spent on products that are versatile and longlasting, as well as being easy to use. “All Gastroback products carry a twoyear guarantee, many have multiple functions and all are bang on-trend. This is as true of our latest products as our existing ones.” Duncan Singleton, trading director, UPGS, agrees: “Amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, there is a continued focus on considered purchases and making your money stretch further. Consumers want to be sure that the product they choose to invest in is a perfect fit for their needs, and that it will last.” Nicole Durham, marketing and design executive at Bluestem
Group, furthers: “The ongoing cost-ofliving adjustment has caused consumers to make more considered purchases than ever before; users are now more likely to invest more in higher quality products that will last longer and save them money over time.
Health concerns Another focus for consumers is health. Neil McIntosh, country manager UK & Ireland, The Cookware Company, explains: “As awareness of the health and environmental risks of PFAS in non-stick coatings grows, this will become a key decision-making driver in 2024. Widespread media coverage on the potential harm of PFAS is already leading more consumers to seek out healthier PFAS-free ceramic coated non-stick cookware and appliances. “All of our small kitchen appliances – Omni Cooker, Contact Grill and Slow Cooker - benefit from the signature GreenPan Thermolon Volt – a PFAS-free, ceramic diamond-infused non-stick coating specially designed for the higher heat requirements of electrical appliances.”
PROGRESSIVE
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HOUSEWARES