Appliance Retailer June-July 2018

APPLIANCE

NOW IN ITS 22ND YEAR

RETAILER

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR THE CONSUMER ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY

/// JUNE / JULY 2018

Benchtop Cooking CONVENIENCE COMES FIRST IN HEALTHY COOKING

+

FATHER’S DAY TOP GIFTS ON DAD’S WISH LIST

2018 INDUSTRY LEADERS FORUM A MARKET INSIGHT FROM KEY SUPPLIERS AND RETAILERS

THE THE NEXT NEXT BIG BIG THING THING IN IN KITCHENS KITCHENS

Prime Array Backlight

Quantum Dot Colour

Ultra Motion Plus

UHD Premium Certification

1000+ Dimming Zones displays unprecedented dynamic range, delivering deep blacks and dazzling lights.

Experience the highest colour depth and accuracy possible with premium Quantum Dot technology.

Perfect for sports lovers, motion estimate and motion compensation technology enhance clarity in fast-moving images.

See the benefit of Ultra HD Premium Certified true colour, brightness and clarity.

*Hisense ULED TVs utilise LCD screens with LED backlighting, 75in Series 9 shown (model 75P9)

EDITORʼS NOTE AR Appliance Retailer is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd ABN 940 025 836 82 41 Bridge Road, Glebe NSW 2037 Australia P 02 9660 2113 | F 02 9660 4419 E appliance@intermedia.com.au W www.intermedia.com.au ISSN: 1328-1852 Managing Director Simon Grover Editorial Director James Wells james@intermedia.com.au Deputy Editor Emily Bencic ebencic@intermedia.com.au Features Editor Kymberly Martin kymberly@intermedia.com.au General Manager – Sales Rod Riley rod@intermedia.com.au Art Director Alyssa Coundouris Prepress Tony Willson Production Manager Jacqui Cooper jacqui@intermedia.com.au Head of Circulation Chris Blacklock Subscriptions Ph 1800 651 422

Average Net Distribution Per Issue: 5,435 AMAA/CAB Yearly Audit Period ending 31st March 2018.

The era of ‘New Retail’

I

t’s the battle between online and offline retail. Or is it?

While some retailers question the validity of physical stores, Chinese retail conglomerate, Alibaba is redefining retail with its ‘New Retail’ concept now at the core of its business strategy.

Rather than choosing between online and offline, Alibaba is seamlessly integrating the two channels. Why? To assist bricks-and-mortar stores in enhancing the customer experience, inventory management and overall retail space via a smartphone-powered experience. Online sales penetration in China is the highest in the world but bricks-and-mortar retail still accounts for more than 80% of total retail sales.

Following success in its homeland over the last two years, Alibaba is eager to bring New Retail to the Australian market. The company recently opened a pop-up in Sydney inviting retail executives and the public to engage with the concept.

Alibaba director of corporate affairs and marketing, James Hudson said, “There is anxiety in the retail sector so we believe this is an ideal time for retailers to start thinking about what these technologies mean for them.”

Taking some inspiration from Swedish furniture giant, Ikea, Alibaba introduced a new home décor store in China, Home Times, but with much more intelligence. Tmall technology analyses the behaviour and preferences of users. Products are then handpicked and added to store shelves. Each product has an electronic price tag that automatically syncs prices with the latest seen online. Product variety is adjusted

every two weeks while QR codes attached to products allow customers to view specifications and order online.

Large screen displays are a focal point of the store to allow customers to see their desired furniture and décor in a virtual home setting. This means the store requires significantly less display space as products can be displayed virtually.

Entertainment is another key factor in the New Retail experience to drive consumers into stores and increase time spent in store. Shoppers are invited to scan a QR code, play a game and then win coupons and discounts that can be used in the store towards a product purchase.

Another example is the Shanghai Roastery that became the first Starbucks to integrate an in-store and online customer experience, powered by Alibaba’s Taobao app and augmented reality (AR). When customers arrive into the store, they are sent a map of the store, the coffee and tea menu and have the ability to save favourite products. Thanks to the AR function, customers can also scan key features to learn more about the coffee bars, brewing methods and roasting process.

In our Industry Leaders Forum (see page 28), there was a general consensus that consumers have moved beyond just buying products or services. They want an experience – something that gives them a reason to return to a store time and time again.

Deputy Editor Emily Bencic

MEET THE APPLIANCE RETAILER TEAM

James Wells

Emily Bencic

www.facebook.com/applianceretailer

Kymberly Martin

Rod Riley

www.linkedin.com/company/appliance-retailer

Alyssa Coundouris twitter.com/Applianceretail

www.applianceretailer.com.au

3

12

THE THE NEXT NEXT BIG BIG THING THING IN IN KITCHENS KITCHENS

[ON THE COVER]

14

20

KITCHENAID MAJOR DOMESTIC APPLIANCES LAUNCH IN AUSTRALIA

A new era in kitchen design has arrived with KitchenAid Major Domestic Appliances launching in Australia for the very first time. Featuring the iconic KitchenAid Medallion, a mark of craftsmanship and precision, the range of refrigeration, cooking and cleaning, is embodied by bold, sophisticated design, and is blended with superb culinary performance. Australians are set to fall in love with a kitchen professionally-inspired and designed for creative cooks.

4

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

38

VOLUME 24 / ISSUE #5

IN THIS ISSUE

10

Hisense – When less is more

Three tips for sales staff selling the latest televisions

12

Bega Betta Home Living

Diversification lifts foot traffic and sales

14

EuroCucina 2018

A preview of key design and technology trends from the biannual appliance exhibition

Multifunctional appliances take pride of place

An integration of online and offline channels

NEWS

06

Smeg welcomes national marketing manager; Winning Group announces key appointments

With a decade of experience; To continue strong sales growth and solid Net Promoter Score

24

Key trends in the market

Follow the style guide with precision grooming

40

Latest Father’s Day gifts on the shop floor

Kit Dad out with a gift bag

From a retail perspective

Male grooming product innovation ramps up

WHAT’S HOT

Pick of the crop

Smeg FAB50, Breville Nespresso Creatista Uno and more

Latest benchtop appliances on the shop floor

Multicookers, slow cookers, grills and more

26

A closer look at features and benefits

enwood kCook Multi Smart, K De’Longhi MultiOven, Crock-Pot Multi Cooker, among others

42

27

Promotions to push sales

Training programs, national campaigns and more

LEADERS FORUM

08

28

Offering the latest in digital technology; From UK department store

Senior executives from market leading brands share their insights

Miele opens Brisbane Experience Centre; Myer finds new CEO

39

42

Key trends in the market

03

Beard maintenance versus the faster shave

21

Consumers seek convenience and healthy cooking

The era of ‘New Retail’

An outlook on the category

20

An outlook on the category

EDITOR’S NOTE

38

41

BENCHTOP COOKING FEATURE

42

FATHER’S DAY FEATURE

An insight into the retail, appliance and consumer electronics industry

www.applianceretailer.com.au

5

AR NEWS

SMEG WELCOMES NATIONAL MARKETING MANAGER

Smeg Australia has appointed Olivia Anderson to the newly created role of national marketing manager, in line with the company’s ongoing expansion.

With a decade of experience in marketing and brand management, she will be responsible for the oversight and leadership of the Smeg marketing team across retail, commercial and FoodServices sectors.

Smeg is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year and managing director, Jim Kalotheos has confirmed a significant program of new releases and corporate events that will kick-start its vision for growth to 2020.

“We have a fantastic sales and marketing team in place whose skills and passion have brought the company to this level. But just as the company is expanding, so is our team – and Olivia’s experience will be instrumental in steering the Smeg Australia vision for 2020,” Kalotheos said.

Smeg national marketing manager, Olivia Anderson

Winning Group announces three key appointments Winning Group has welcomed Julian Kipping as head of retail, Siegfrid Bacani as head of environment and promoted Clara Hinch to head of partner engagement, as the company continues to build on its year-on-year sales growth and solid Net Promoter score.

Winning Group head of retail, Julian Kipping

Kipping joins the Winnings business from premium electronics brand, Bang & Olufsen, where he has built his career for more than 20 years.

He played a major part in successfully establishing B&O’s Australian brand presence and led the operations across Australia and New Zealand as their general manager since 2006.

6

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

BY EMILY BENCIC

BY EMILY BENCIC

Bacani was previously working across retail marketing and trade activations at Fisher & Paykel and has many years of experience with other premium brands such as Moët & Chandon, Jack Daniel’s and Swatch Group. In his new role, he will ensure that customers receive a consistent exceptional experience across all stores.

Hinch who has been working with Winning Appliances for over three years and prior to that had 14 years Winning Group head of environment, Siegfrid Becani of experience as Miele state manager and Falcon national brand manager, has relocated to the company’s head role in Sydney. As our company office to head up partner engagement. mission is to provide the best shopping In her role, she will experience in the world, focus on providing these appointments ensure exceptional event that we are connecting experiences and with our customers at every connecting with liketouch point. minded businesses “The appliance market and individuals. in Australia is growing and Winning Group we believe that offering CEO, John Winning exceptional shopping commented, “We experiences from the are thrilled to have minute someone steps into Julian and Siegfrid a store, right through to join the business, delivery, installation and Winning Group head of partner and to have Clara after sales service is key to engagement, Clara Hinch take up this new gaining customer loyalty.”

Asko confirms 7-day customer service

BY JAMES WELLS

The Australian subsidiary a customer can a proper roster of people as it is a new of Asko – which is also the call our service dimension for the employees. Now brand’s best performing team and the we have completed the trial phase, subsidiary globally – has following day we everyone understands the model and confirmed it is providing will endeavour to we are happy to publically announce seven-day customer repair the appliance the introduction. service nationally following an internal trial. ˮWE NOW HAVE 28 SERVICE TECHNICIANS In an exclusive interview with Asko AROUND THE COUNTRY AND ARE DELIVERING A Australia managing KPI OF 92 PER CENT FIRST TIME FIX RATE.ˮ director, Crt Prasnikar, told Appliance Retailer the focus for the brand and the family will “We want to show our care for the will continue to be on still be able to enjoy customer and help them in an industry Asko Australia managing servicing the customer. their Sunday roast. where from time to time consumers director, Crt Prasnikar “We try to be as “We have can experience problems. If they do close to the customer as stepped up to experience problems we want to resolve possible in terms of understanding their provide a premium service and we are these issues as quickly as possible. We needs. We have now introduced sevenproud of this achievement. We have now have 28 service technicians around day service in metropolitan areas which created a niche and this tells the story the country and we are delivering a KPI we believe is a first. So for example if as to why we are a premium brand. of 92 per cent first time fix rate which we a product has a problem on Saturday, During our trial we worked to develop believe is industry leading.”

Amazon to open Sydney fulfilment centre Amazon will open a new fulfilment centre in Moorebank in Sydney’s south west and has started recruiting for a range of roles in operations, support and technical specialists. The company plans to start operations in the second half of the year.

The new 43,000 square metre facility is located in the Goodman Centenary Distribution Centre in Moorebank and provides easy access to the M5 and M7 motorways. The lease of the centre was facilitated by CBRE’s Industrial & Logistics business.

Amazon Australia operations director, Robert Bruce said, “We are thrilled to be establishing our next fulfilment centre in Sydney and working with the local community around Moorebank. Sydney represents another important development for our growth strategy in Australia, following a steady and progressive increase in customer demand.

“This new facility builds on the capabilities of our first centre in Dandenong South, allowing us to continue to fulfil our commitment to fast and reliable deliveries for Australian customers. This investment will benefit customers

BY EMILY BENCIC Moorebank distribution centre

and the local economy by generating new jobs and providing small and medium sized Australian businesses that sell on amazon.com.au and use our Fulfilment by Amazon program, with an opportunity to more easily access millions of customers across the country.”

Liverpool Mayor, Wendy Waller commented, “We are pleased to welcome the Amazon fulfilment centre to Moorebank. This is a great win for our local community; the Amazon facility will be a boon

for south west Sydney and we look forward to having good jobs for people close to where they live and having a partner involved in the local community. We expect the Sydney fulfilment centre will become a key logistics hub thanks to its strategic position in south west Sydney.”

The new Sydney fulfilment centre, along with the existing building in Melbourne, will allow Amazon to handle current and future customer demand and speed up delivery to customers across the country. www.applianceretailer.com.au

7

AR NEWS LEFT: Miele Brisbane Experience Centre Exterior BELOW: Miele Australia managing director, Sjaak Brouwer in the Miele Experience Centre

Miele opens Brisbane Experience Centre Miele Australia has opened an Experience Centre in Brisbane. Billed as the ‘Best of the Best’, it is a showcase for the latest Miele appliances, digital technology and contemporary design.

Located at Haven, Newstead, a new retail precinct, the centre represents a substantial Brisbane investment for Miele and is the only Miele Experience Centre in Australia offering the latest in Miele digital technology.

Interactive digital screens enable those considering Miele M Touch cooking appliances to compare the features of the various models and view their various colour options so appliances of interest can be added to ’wish lists’ and details emailed for further consideration in the home environment.

An interactive cooktop presenter, within an island benchtop, compares various features and highlights colour

MYER FINDS NEW CEO Myer has appointed John King as CEO and managing director, following an extensive international search. King led the successful transformation of UK department store, House of Fraser from 2006, culminating in a sale to Chinese conglomerate, Sanpower, in 2014.

For the last three years, King has been living and working in the United States where he has consulted on a variety of US-based retailers and has been actively involved in a number of start-ups. He has commenced work at Myer and is based in Melbourne.

Myer executive chairman, Garry Hounsell said, “John brings over 30 years of highly relevant retail experience across department stores, specialty retailing, premium global brands, wholesale apparel and discount retail.

“During his career, John has gained significant experience across all aspects of merchandise, as well as 8

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

BY KYMBERLY MARTIN

options, while the rangehood display replicates the performance of various rangehoods so noise levels in a home setting can be realised and compared.

Another interactive display enables scanning of Miele’s CareCollection products and accessories so benefits can be explained and appliance compatibility detailed. A demonstration kitchen is located on the mezzanine level where discovery and owner cooking classes will be held on a regular basis.

To celebrate its opening, the centre is presenting a series of complimentary, drop-in appliance demonstrations during the launch week.

BY EMILY BENCIC

Myer CEO, John King and Myer executive chairman, Garry Hounsell

store operations, e-commerce, sourcing and supply chain. He will bring a new perspective to Myer and has been given a full mandate by the board to deliver an improvement in financial performance.

“Over the course of his tenure at the House of Fraser, John and his team

consistently grew revenues, differentiated the product offering and launched a successful online business, improved EBITDA and reduced the company debt. They also refurbished more than 70% of the property portfolio and implemented a vision, values and culture program.

“John is an excellent candidate to lead Myer and I look forward to working with him to unlock the company’s significant potential and deliver shareholder value.”

King added, “I am excited to lead this iconic Australian company, which like all global retailers, is facing significant change in both the retail environment and consumer shopping habits. I am looking forward to the challenges and opportunities of this role.”

Electrolux unveils new cooking technology platforms Electrolux Home Products has unveiled a new product platform ahead of the company’s 100-year anniversary in 2019.

In an interview with Electrolux senior marketing manager for Australia and New Zealand, Richelle Barker, she told Appliance Retailer about some of the recent innovations unveiled at EuroCucina that are expected to arrive in the Australian market in the near future.

One of the highlights of the stand was SenseFry which provides the ability for people less confident with cooking certain foods to allow the cooktop to take the guesswork out of cooking certain types of food or dishes.

“SenseFry is precision frying that allows desired, consistent temperature to be reached before cooking for better looking results, for example when cooking steak or pancakes. Fast, precise cooking, ready when you are – it’s your steak, your way, just right every time,” Barker said.

“Electrolux induction was showcased at Eurocucina with chefs live cooking at a pop-up restaurant.

Precise induction products were mapped to consumer pain points with built-in sensors to support the cooking journey,” Barker said.

The Electrolux stand at this year’s EuroCucina in Milan, Italy

“The Electrolux Connected kitchen is an intuitive, complete meal solution, assisted cooking, end to end. Electrolux enhances your kitchen experience with Assisted Cooking and this idea was shared at EuroCucina with live demonstrations of Taste OS every 30 minutes with actors bringing the experience to life. The demonstration showcased connected products and partnership with Innit.

“The Electrolux Eurocucina experience was a cooking showcase with professional chefs cooking and

De’Longhi sets the bar for in-store experience De’Longhi is putting the customer experience at the centre of its new pointof-sale material by introducing in-store touchscreens to add value to the brand and bring its products to life.

De’Longhi Group marketing director, Raniero Miccoli says the company has always focused on product innovation and delivering the best possible experience to customers, but it’s now more important than ever to understand how a consumer engages with the product – before, during and after purchase.

“In line with consumer trends, we want to provide an experience, not just the product. Many Australian consumers will research a product online but ultimately end up in the store to interact with the product. We want to bring the customer into the world of the brand by highlighting what it offers and

BY JAMES WELLS

demonstrating Electrolux professional expertise using combination of professional and domestic appliances side by side to show quality results are the same.

“Our future is determined by the way we all live our lives. That’s why we strive to improve everyday life for millions of people and the world around us. It is embodied in everything we do. In every idea, every product and every human interaction. This is us – at Electrolux we shape living for the better.”

BY EMILY BENCIC

else is behind the product, additional attachments and recipes. For coffee, it helps them understand which machine is right for their needs,” he said.

Although retail is evolving, bricks-and-mortar stores still deliver the unique aspect of physical touch and hands-on experience unlike new entrants, such as Amazon, according to Miccoli.

New point-of-sale material “In-store POS will dramatically includes in-store touchscreens change the way it looks and will need to become more interactive. For why it fits, complements or enhances example, touch screens will focus less their lifestyle,” he said. on the functionality (price and benefits) For its kitchen and coffee categories, of the product and more on how the De’Longhi has created a dedicated product will fit into your lifestyle. space in-store where consumers can Consumers are interacting with products experience the product in isolation with in a different way, which presents an a touch screen. opportunity to retailers. They are “For kitchen products, it gives flexible to change and add value to the customers a sense of the story, what product experience,” he said. www.applianceretailer.com.au

9

AR FEATURE Hisense VIDAA U Smart TV platform

When less is MORE HISENSE NATIONAL RETAIL TRAINING MANAGER, CHRIS MAYER

T

he Australian TV market is dominated by the constant arrival of new products; from OLED to ULED and HD to UHD, the buying experience can be overwhelming for customers. Shops are filled with the latest technology, brightest lights and largest signs aimed at sharing as much information as possible with customers in the shortest amount of time.

Retail salespeople are often armed with technical terms to describe the latest products, but this can act as a hindrance to closing the deal as customers often become confused, leaving them unsure about what they really want.

So, when is less more?

It’s at this point you start to determine what product may best suit their needs and the key features that will stand out. For example, if your customer is an avid Call of Duty fan, TVs with Game Mode are a smart choice. Or perhaps if you have identified the customer interested in streaming

LISTEN AND LEARN

It’s very rare that a customer comes into store with a specific product and model in mind, not to mention a thorough understanding of the latest tech on offer.

That’s why it’s important that you take the time to listen to their needs. During this initial conversation it’s crucial to ask the right questions. Why do they want a new TV, the space where their TV will live, how they use their TV and what is their budget?

10

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

Hisense national retail training manager, Chris Mayer

services, they could enjoy the ability to access Netflix at the touch of a button, if that’s the case suggest a TV with a remote that offers this one touch feature.

Let your customer take the lead of this conversation while you absorb the information they are sharing with you.

PRESENTING THE PRODUCTS

Once the customer has explained the reasons behind today’s store visit, it’s time to tailor your messaging and product offering, and most importantly close that deal! It’s critical that your product presentation only touches on features that you know will benefit the customer.

For example, if the customer has expressed they don’t have Internet at home, launching in to a 15-minute spiel on how VIDAA U 2.5 is going to change their life is not a good idea.

Instead focus on picture quality, sound and motion, as these are the features that are more likely to interest them.

It’s important to use the right amount of technical information to avoid overusing jargon as this can ultimately overwhelm a customer and cause them to lose interest in purchasing.

THE BOTTOM LINE

To guide customers towards a purchase, it’s essential to approach them with an open ear, ready to listen to their needs and understand their wants. This is best achieved by avoiding unnecessary jargon and features that are irrelevant to their needs. AR

MASTER YOUR SALES THIS WINTER WITH FU-JITSU.

FREE MONEY PLUS YOUR CHANCE TO PLUS

A YEAR’S YEARS WIN GROCERIES GROCERIES WORTH OF

A Fujitsu Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner is the secret to defeating Winter... and your greatest weapon in mastering your sales.

The Fujitsu Free Money promotion is back – and this time, the offer’s even greater. From June 4th to September 3rd, customers who purchase a Fujitsu Reverse Cycle Inverter Split System or Inverter Multi Split System will receive either a Pre-paid Visa card or eGift Card worth up to $400. To further honour your customers, they will also go into the draw to win a year’s worth of groceries valued at $13,000. There are 10 to be won.

Our long term Brand Ambassador and former Australian cricket captain, Mark Taylor is back as a ‘Fu-jitsu’ master and the face of this campaign that will drive customers to your store.

So stock up and master your sales this winter with Fujitsu, Australia’s Favourite Air.

For more information contact your Business Development Manager, call 1300 882 201 or visit fujitsugeneral.com.au/promotions *Purchase an eligible product by 03/09/18. Domestic and residential purchases only. Exclusions apply, see full terms and conditions. Claims close 4:59pm AEST 28/09/18.

Proof of purchase and payment required. Customers will need their outdoor model and serial numbers and indoor model number to complete their claim. Value of Pre-paid Visa card or eGift card subject to type of Eligible Product purchased. Full terms and conditions available at fujitsugeneral.com.au/promotions. Prize draw at Prime Focus, Level 1, 500 Chapel Street, South Yarra VIC 3141 on 7/12/18 at 12 noon AEDST. Winners published on fujitsugeneral.com.au/promotions from 12/12/18. Prizes: 10 x 1 year of groceries awarded as 26 x $500 grocery eGift cards ($13,000 in total), with one eGift card provided per fortnight. Promoter is Fujitsu General (Aust.) Pty Limited (ABN 55 001 229 554) of Eastern Creek Drive, Eastern Creek NSW 2766. NSW Permit No. LTPS/18/24238. ACT Permit No. TP18/00803. SA Permit No. T18/772.

AR RETAIL PROFILE

Bega Betta Home Living

BY EMILY BENCIC

B

ega Betta Home Living, 500km south of Sydney, and 30km from the nearest electrical appliance store, has seen an uplift in foot traffic of approximately 10 per cent since becoming the only authorised Apple reseller and service provider in town, according to co-owner Brendan Buckley.

In 2014, the store became an authorised stockist of Jaycar products and was named Jaycar Stockist of the Year in NSW last year. In 2015, Bega Betta Home Living also became a Weber barbecue specialist dealer.

“We invest in local TV and radio advertising in conjunction with other Betta stores from Ulladulla (200km north), Batemans Bay and Narooma with supplier focused activity. We also promote our involvement with Apple, Jaycar and Weber,” Buckley said.

Although the Bega community only has a population of around 6,000 people, the Betta Home Living store measures 800 square metres and employs 12 full-time and part-time staff. One staff member, Di O’Loglin has been with the business for 18 years and another, Margi DeCosta, has been working at the store for five years but

Inside the Bega Betta Home Living store

12

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

has worked at various electrical stores in the area for over 40 years.

As part of the ‘Your Betta Cooking Specialist’ program, cooking appliances take a major share of the store with whitegoods occupying around one third of the floor space.

“Our most popular brands are Beko, Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, LG and Miele. We have seen increased interest in bottom mount and French Door refrigeration, pyrolytic ovens, induction cooktops and silent rangehoods from Schweigen,” Buckley said.

He believes the key to running a successful retail business is giving customers what they want. “This includes a nice, clean and inviting store, knowledgeable staff and the right products at competitive prices. We always ensure the customer is happy with our service from the time they enter the store to when their appliance is delivered and installed, and beyond.”

Although online sales have not taken off for Bega Betta Home Living, accounting for less than 2 per cent of total retail sales, Buckley has noticed a shift in shopping behaviour as online retail gains traction. “Consumers have a lot more product knowledge now and are very aware of pricing. They are not willing to wait as long to get the product they are after because they know they can get it elsewhere,” he said.

Bega Betta Home Living co-owners, Brendan Buckley and Shane George

The Bega Betta kitchen showroom

The Bega Betta barbecue offering including Weber

Bega Betta is the only authorised Apple reseller and service provider in town

“WE SUPPORT THE BEGA AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES ALL YEAR ROUND THROUGH SPONSORSHIPS TO SPORTING CLUBS – GOLF AND BOWLING – AND MAKE DONATIONS TO SCHOOLS AND SCOUTS JUST TO NAME A FEW” The recent bushfires in March this year, affecting Tathra located 15km south-east of Bega, had a significant impact on the community with dozens of homes lost. In support of the victims, Bega Betta Home Living set up a bushfire fund and invited them to visit the store and pick up daily essentials, including toasters and kettles, and personal care items, such as hair dryers. “A lot of the affected residents are friends and regular customers of ours so we thought the best way to assist was by giving them a few hundred dollars worth of products to help them get by.

“We support the Bega and surrounding communities all year round through sponsorships to sporting clubs – golf and bowling – and make donations to schools and scouts just to name a few,” he said.

Buckley is pleased with sales this year to date but is hoping heating sales will kick in soon. “In the months ahead, our focus will be on the audio visual category and in particular, premium televisions and soundbars. We also look forward to capitalising on the smart speaker market and introducing the Apple Home Pod to our store in the near future.”

On an end note: “We are very fortunate to be part of the Betta group as the team supports our business and enables our store to run more efficiently and effectively in terms of point of sale systems, IT help, advertising and pricing”, he said. AR www.applianceretailer.com.au

13

AR EUROCUCINA 2018

The biannual EuroCucina exhibition held in Milan, has once again provided the appliance industry with a preview of key design and technology trends.

According to the show organisers, the 57th version of the exhibition attracted a total attendance of 434,509 visitors from 188 countries across the six day fair. This was a 17 per cent increase on the 2016 exhibition, which was the last time EuroCucina was held. Appliance Retailer’s James Wells was at EuroCucina 2018 and here are the highlights.

Smeg CEO Vittorio Bertazzoni and Smeg Australia managing director, Jim Kalotheos on the Smeg stand

EuroCucina 2018 Smeg launches over 100 new products

S

meg has confirmed that over 100 new products launched at EuroCucina 2018 in Milan will join the local subsidiary’s portfolio.

The product portfolio extends across the Dolce Stil Novo range – to be launched in Australia from mid2018 as well as a new Linear range and Classic built-in oven products, freestanding Portofino cookers and FAB refrigerators. New platforms have been created within the dishwasher and wine cabinet categories as well as further innovation in the collaboration with Dolce & Gabbana.

DOLCE STIL NOVO

The Dolce Stil Novo on display at EuroCucina included: steam assisted pyrolytic ovens, combi-steam ovens, speed ovens, gas blade flame on black glass cooktops, gas on glass cooktops, induction cooktops, wine cellars, blast chillers as well as a vacuum drawer and coffee machine.

According to Smeg Australia managing director, Jim Kalotheos, a unique feature of Dolce Stil Novo will not just be warming drawers but 14

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

also storage drawers with the ability to have inserted accessories such as chefs compartments, sommelier drawers and spice drawers sold as accessories.

“This will be the first range to deliver a complete kitchen offer on this level in Australia and two trims will be available – the signature copper or stainless steel,” Kalotheos said.

In addition to the compact oven and 60cm ranges, there will also be a 90cm x 48cm pyrolytic oven with triple fan technology and thermoseal added to the range.

“The evolution of Dolce Stil Novo that will arrive later in 2019 – will feature a display that will give us multi-stage cooking, wi-fi cooking, meat probe over 100 menu systems and a guidance system which can be operated via a dedicated app on your phone or mobile device. This app will also provide access to changing cooking trends as well as back-end service and diagnostic support and extend our connection with the customer.”

LINEAR

The new Linear range will be launched

by September this year after the Dolce Stil Novo release. New Linear products

will feature ovens in black, white and the new grey silver including: pyrolytic ovens, combi-steam ovens, speed ovens, gas blade flame on stainless steel cooktops with signature Linear knobs, direct gas flame on stainless steel cooktops with signature Linear knobs, standard gas on stainless steel cooktops with signature Linear knobs, coffee machine, warming drawer, storage drawers including the chefs drawer, spice drawer and sommelier drawer to complement the compact wine cellar.

CLASSIC

In the Classic range, a new 90cm x 48cm oven featuring 100 litre capacity will be introduced. Smeg claims this will represent the largest product of its kind on the market, as most competitor models are only 90-litres in capacity.

This product delivers four levels of cooking and has been created with no side controls and a top mount control panel for additional space in the cavity. It also features Thermoseal with triple-fan to deliver even cooking across all four levels. The TFT-interface has over 50 cooking menus and 17 cooking functions.

DISHWASHERS

New Portofino prototypes on the Smeg stand

Also added to the Classic range is a new 90cm x 60cm pyrolytic oven with 126 litre capacity. This offers the high capacity cavity from the Portofino cooking range, but in a built-in product for the first time. Smeg says this is the pinnacle of the built-in range and has all the functionality of the smaller model as well as the Classic Guido Canali design.

PORTOFINO

The Portofino range, which was introduced at EuroCucina in 2016, showcased a range of concepts and extensions for the next stage of its evolution. New Portofino prototypes include an increase in size from 90cm to 120cm – with either a 90cm triple-fan pyrolytic Thermoseal oven complemented by a second 30cm oven featuring a fourth fan delivering additional baking to the roasting oven or a second configuration with two 60cm ovens.

“In terms of investment, I don’t think there are any other manufacturers that are investing as heavily in freestanding cooking as much as Smeg is – and we will continue to do so,” Kalotheos said.

“This investment in freestanding cooking replicates the investment that Smeg has been making in built-in cooking for a very long time and as a premium cooking brand, it is essential for where we are today as a brand, but where we are going into the future.”

FAB 28 & FAB 32 REFRIGERATORS

The re-designed FAB 28 refrigerators have been updated – taking the retro look from the outside to the inside as well as adding better performance and up to 10 per cent additional capacity to these products.

“A UNIQUE FEATURE OF DOLCE STIL NOVO WILL NOT JUST BE WARMING DRAWERS BUT ALSO STORAGE DRAWERS WITH THE ABILITY TO HAVE INSERTED ACCESSORIES SUCH AS CHEFS COMPARTMENTS, SOMMELIER DRAWERS AND SPICE DRAWERS SOLD AS ACCESSORIES” “The additional range of concept colours, including a number featuring a matt-style finish are on-trend have been developed to create interest and prompt feedback from international buyers on the stand throughout the event,” Kalotheos said.

WINE CELLARS

Two wine cellar platforms have been released that are 100 per cent built by Smeg in Guastalla in a dedicated area of its factory.

“We will introduce a compact 45cm wine cellar which is an 18-bottle threeshelf format with two telescopic shelves as well as anti-vibration compression system and activated charcoal air-flow system. We also have a built-in dualzone 38-bottle system with a handle mounted on the left or right hand hinge in a neutral aesthetic. The Smeg Connect app can show what bottles are stored on what shelf as well as a pairing guide to ensure that, in conjunction with the oven, the right food and the right wine come together,” Kalotheos said.

“A lot of internal technology is changing within the Smeg dishwasher platform – not just the performance, but also structural improvements to deliver key features and benefits,” Kalotheos said.

“The inner door has been redesigned to provide a better grip on the lower basket and improve stability and also the thickness of the gauge in the basket has been improved to create more structure and weight. Also within the door, the detergent dispenser has been updated to provide a better release into the chamber of the dishwasher with a separate powder and tablet release option for optimal performance of either form of cleaning.

“The middle basket has been modified to create more width and more depth to deliver more stacking flexibility and new wine glass stem holders do not leave water marks and prevent additional polishing after the load is finished. Telescopic runners on the baskets have also been updated to ensure a smooth movement during packing and unpacking. Within the diamond series, connectivity has been included which will interact with the Smeg Connect app – alongside the wine cellars and built in ovens – to provide statistical analysis and also provide remote connection outside of the home as well as diagnostics so that we can contact the customer about an issue, before they contact us.”

DOLCE & GABBANA COLLABORATION

Extensions have been announced to the Sicily Is My Love Dolce & Gabbana collaboration with Smeg that has previously seen 100 hand-painted FAB 28 refrigerators and a range of small appliances previously released to market.

This year at EuroCucina, three new small appliances have been added to the range – a drip-filter coffee machine, a handblender and a four-slice toaster.

Also released within the range is a new platform – Davina Cucina – featuring two distinct colour formats – Maioliche (blue and white) and Carretto (predominantly orange, red, and yellow) incorporating a FAB 28 refrigerator with a matching 90cm freestanding gas cooker with electric oven and rangehood that will be created on a dedicated Smeg production line and marketed to consumers seeking a unique kitchen experience. www.applianceretailer.com.au

15

AR EUROCUCINA 2018 Eurolinx national sales manager Tristan Peters with the Prosciutteria from Fhiaba

David Woolcott, Stuart Broadhurst, Dan WittenHannah and Ben Normoyle (Fisher & Paykel)

Fisher & Paykel debuts at EuroCucina

Fisher & Paykel exhibited at EuroCucina for the first time this year – emphasising the brand’s intentions to become a major global player under the guidance of Haier.

Auckland-based Fisher & Paykel executive vice president for marketing globally, Greg Shepherd told Appliance Retailer, the move to EuroCucina is part of a global strategy to improve awareness of the brand.

“In recent years with improvements with our products, and under the stewardship of Haier, we are taking our brand globally,” Shepherd said.

“We are already very strong in Australia, New Zealand and North America. We have been in the UK for 13 years and we need to look at the expansion and future foundations in the European market. That started with at IFA in Berlin last year and we have had EuroCucina on our radar for many years. The stars have aligned for us and we have a perfect product set available and as the ultra-premium brand for Haier globally, this is the place for us to demonstrate what appliances with true design mean to the market.

“In recent years with improvements with our products, and under the stewardship of Haier, we are taking our brand globally...”

“A lot of people can go into appliance retailers and it is a blaze of stainless or glass and there is a lot of common elements between products. But no one can match our New Zealand heritage dating back to 1934 and that we are New Zealand’s largest employer of designers and engineers with 450 people in our Auckland and Dunedin design centres.”

Hero products on the stand included premium column refrigeration range with variable temperature zones and twin evaporative coolers available in 18-inch, 24-inch and 30-inch formats, a family of 60cm built-in ovens and the Series 9 DishDrawer with knock-to-open functionality.

16

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

EUROLINX PREPARES FOR FHIABA LAUNCH IN AUSTRALIA Eurolinx, the distributor of Ilve, De Dietrich and Artusi, has confirmed the arrival of Fhiaba premium Italian-made refrigeration in the second half of 2018.

“We are very excited about Fhiaba finally coming to the Australian market,” Eurolinx national sales manager, Tristan Peters told Appliance Retailer at EuroCucina in Milan.

“We are looking to launch in the second half of the year with displays already designed and ready to launch as soon as the products are ready to go.

“The range that Fhiaba offers is complete and comprehensive with sizes from 600mm, 750mm and 900mm in column, bottom mount and wine storage formats.

“The three main lines we will be introducing to the Australian market include models featuring a top compressor with integrated exposed grills, models with a bottom compressor as well as integrated models – which are different to other integrated models on the market as it will have a fully stainless steel wrapped door. A number of different stainless steel finishes will be available with all models including traditional stainless steel, a treated stainless steel which avoids fingermarks, a graphite or dark grey finish which is on-trend here at EuroCucina and for selected customers – rose gold as well as copper.

“Fhiaba is the Italian specialist for refrigeration and it is a natural partnership for Eurolinx and fully integrates with our Ilve brand synergy. It offers us the opportunity to enter the premium refrigeration market that is growing and has been proven by other brands in the Australian market – but with Italian flair and design that is second to none.

“Once we have complete certification on all of the products then we can finalise our distribution strategy which will include some of our existing retail partners who are specialist refrigeration retailers. It will be positioned as the best of the best at the top of the market competing directly with brands like Sub-Zero. Fhiaba can offer a very similar range to Sub-Zero, however with improved features as well as the added benefit that the entire range is manufactured in Italy to the best standards.

“In the second stage of the launch, we will introduce underbench refrigeration for the indoor and outdoor markets as well as a blast chiller and underbench freezers and sousvide vacuum drawers in 150mm, 250mm and 450mm formats.

Also available will be a range of alfresco refrigeration products initially designed for the American market including a beverage centre, refrigerator drawers as well as wine storage with integrated amber light as white light has been recently found to affect the ageing of white wine.”

The BEST new products from EuroCucina 2018 1. THE PROSCIUTTERIA L to R: Crt Prasnikar, Owen Holbourn, Jonas Lindberg and James Vogdanos on the Asko stand

This very Italian wine refrigerator also converts into a Prosciutto and cheese preservation cabinet with unique accessories available for hanging cured meats as well as matching premium serving boards. This unique product is made by Fhiaba, and will be available in the Australian market when the distribution of the product commences through Eurolinx before the end of this year.

2. DIVINA CUCINA

Harvey Norman attendees at EuroCucina 2018 – L to R: Nik Papa, Ashley Collins, David Ackery, Lachlan Roach, Tim Hannon and Iain Tennant join Smeg Australia managing director, Jim Kalotheos (centre) for the Smeg Dolce & Gabbana Divina Cucina event in Milan

What is better than one premium brand unveiling something at EuroCucina? That’s right – two brands unveiling a collaboration.

The Smeg Dolce & Gabanna Divina Cucina freestanding cooker, hood and FAB refrigerator were probably the most photographed and talked about products at EuroCucina.

Taking it to the next level, an exclusive invite-only event attended by the Italian A-List as well as the fashionistas of the Australian appliance industry was held on the actual Dolce and Gabanna fashion runway in Milan where drones were carrying handbags to global acclaim just weeks earlier.

3. THE BEAST FROM THE EAST

More power is clearly the name of the game when it comes to gas. This 35-megajoule wok burner received the nickname ‘The Beast from The East’ as it was featured within an Asian kitchen layout as one of three kitchen concepts on the Sub-Zero stand – the other two were an English kitchen and an Australian kitchen.

Multi-ringed burners were also featured on several stands (with bright brass as the signature colour) with some cooktops offering the opportunity to customize the output from each gas ring of the burner with separate controls.

L to R: Jim Kalotheos (Smeg), Con Tsoutouras (Spartan Electrical), John Winning & Brittney Brockhurst (Winning Appliances), Emer Zavaroni (Smeg), Darren Spencer (Narta) and Leon Wolf (Smeg) at the Smeg Dolce & Gabbana Divina Cucina event

4. WINE PRESERVER AND ICE MAKER

The conversion of commercial products to domestic applications continues and this wine preservation centre with integrated ice maker shown at Electrolux was a hit with the Australian buyers during Appliance Retailer’s visit to the stand. The ice is made using a special technique so that it is completely clear – a key benefit for premium cocktails and whisky connosieurs. The only problem, as one well-known Australian retail buyer pointed out, was that a bottle of wine very rarely lasts long enough in his house for it to be preserved for future consumption.

5. STONE GAS COOKTOPS

L to R: Maria and Peter Kambouris (Liebe + Haus) with David Debs and Leon Wolf (Smeg) at the Smeg Dolce & Gabbana event

This year, every major cooking supplier was showing off their multi-zone induction and gas on glass cooktops. To emphasise their Italian heritage, Bertazzoni displayed unique stone cooktops which saw more than one Australian buyer looking to range the company’s products – especially now that it is operating its own local subsidiary of the family-owned Italian manufacturer. www.applianceretailer.com.au

17

AR EUROCUCINA 2018

The best trends from EuroCucina 2018 1. PREMIUM KITCHEN FITOUTS

Daniel Bertuccio (Eurolinx), Terry Smart, Geraldine Gillespie & Biag Capasso (The Good Guys), Tristan Peters (Eurolinx), Antonio Ruffatto (Ilve), Jamey Colbert (Eurolinx)

Everywhere at EuroCucina, premium kitchen fitouts were on display, elevating the presentation of the appliances. A hand-made kitchen fitout from Officine Gullo, who will be opening a showroom at the bottom of the Rialto building in Melbourne within the coming months. Look out for the integrated mushroom restaurant also within the showroom.

2. INDUCTION DOWNDRAFT

Probably the most popular ‘new product’ on several stands was downdraft extraction, but for brands like Bora it seems the industry is only now catching on to something they have been spruiking for years. What has gone up for many years, now goes down into the cabinetry or an island benchtop and the integration into induction cooktops is now the best use of this technology.

3. DARK BRUSHED STAINLESS STEEL Miele’s Chris Kotis, Sjaak Brouwer and Dr Axel Kniehl with the Miele Dialog oven

Representing a complete departure away from the bright polished stainless steel, dark brushed stainless steel, such as the dishwasher on the Asko stand took many forms at EuroCucina. The matt finish doesn’t leave any fingerprints and is much easier to clean and maintain in its premium appearance. Also called graphite by some, the finish took many forms including handles and trim on glass ovens as well. The appearance of matt black finish was on display, but not as prevalent as expected.

4. COUNTRY OF ORIGIN STORIES

Gaggenau head of brand Sven Schnee and BSH general manager Rob Warner

How does a brand differentiate itself from the broad offering of global appliance suppliers? Fisher & Paykel told the New Zealand story through food with a series of tasty experiences that helped tell a different story that wasn’t pyrolytic or induction. Everything from tea to shaved ice cones as well as toasted marshmallows and freeze dried sherbet made from red wine. For the buyers, food was a key form of hospitality with everything from espresso coffee and glasses of prosecco to antipasto plates and cheese boards used to continue the buying discussions within the back rooms of the stands in a very relaxed Italian atmosphere.

5. LARGE-FORMAT COLUMN REFRIGERATION

Jade White, Dan Robinson & Warren Ah Do (Harvey Norman New Zealand), Andrea Gunn (Arisit), Graeme Watt (Harvey Norman New Zealand), Simon Taylor (Arisit) and Liam Bryers (Whirlpool)

18

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

Incredibly, a large number of Australian households are spending over $100,000 in their refrigeration fitout alone.

Driving this trend is large-format column refrigeration as demonstrated on the Liebherr stand as well as many others. The refrigerator, wine storage cabinet and freezer now becoming the three-pillar minimum for a premium renovation or installation and in some cases two sets are purchased simultaneously as well as an outdoor beverage centre and refrigerator drawers.

FEATURE

BENCHTOP COOKING OUTLOOK | TRENDS | RANGES | PRODUCT GALLERY | PROMOTIONS

AR BENCHTOP COOKING

OUTLOOK

Consumers seek convenience and healthy cooking

I

BY EMILY BENCIC

n the benchtop cooking category, fryers achieved the strongest rate of change in the last 12 months, according to GfK data. This was driven by healthier air fryer types, which experienced a 14% lift in unit terms and 20% increase in value. Electrical cooking pots have slipped into decline in value terms, attributable to multi-cooker types and the longterm decline of pressure cookers.

Nonetheless, volume has continued to grow (13%), due to a strong spike in slow cooker sales. Rice cookers also

SELECT your preferred recipe.

experienced strong growth of 9% in volume and 11% in value.

Euromonitor International research analyst, Jorge Rosas said the healthy living trend has influenced consumers to purchase small appliances that will not only help them make new and different types of food but also eliminate perceived unhealthy cooking methods that may require oil.

“This trend has further reduced demand for appliances such as deep fat fryers, bread makers and electric grills.

As consumers become more health conscious when making purchase

WEIGH the ingredients.

COOK your meal.

decisions, the category is expected to see a continuing shift towards appliances that are convenient and provide health benefits,” he said.

“Air/light fryers in Australia continued to perform well, gaining one of the highest volume growth rates in the category for 2017. Rice cookers also performed positively as Australians appreciate its multi-functionality and use for healthy meal preparation.

Overall, the healthy living trend is expected to grow in Australia and further stimulate the market for small cooking appliances,” he added. AR

ENJOY with friends and family.

TRENDS

Multifunctional appliances take pride of place

K

enwood plans to reignite the benchtop cooking category, which has suffered negative media publicity lately, by launching a unique and connected thermo cooker, accompanied by a goto-market plan focused on developing a foodie community. “Over the past 18 months, we have invested in numerous research projects locally and abroad.

We have found that consumers are undeniable food lovers and embrace all things cooking. They feel a sense of guilt for not being able to do it more often,” ecosystems development manager, Marcus Lo Russo said.

“Eating well does not only influence physical health, but also general wellbeing and household harmony. With this in mind, we have developed a product that supports the entire cooking process from recipe search to clean up,” he added.

De’Longhi has witnessed a rise in multifunctional appliances as kitchen space becomes smaller with more consumers living in apartments, studios and granny flats.

“With this in mind, we are launching new benchtop cooking appliances this winter including the MultiOven, the MultiGrill, two new deep fryers and the MultiCuisine range,” senior category manager, Jessica Hull said.

DE’LONGHI IS LAUNCHING

NEW BENCHTOP COOKING APPLIANCES THIS WINTER

INCLUDING THE MULTIOVEN, THE MULTIGRILL, TWO NEW DEEP FRYERS AND THE

MULTICUISINE RANGE.

Smart COOKING made simple.

Marcus Lo Russo – Kenwood.

Tefal product manager for kitchen electrics, Tegan Bond said consumers are increasingly looking for time and money saving products that are easy to use and easy to clean. The company’s market-leading position in the multicooker category has been reinforced by great interest in its latest Cook4Me, the Cook4Me+.

“We anticipate an even stronger winter season in sales terms. Our midrange electrical pressure cooker, Fast & Delicious, also continues to perform well,” she said.

The benchtop cooking category continues to grow year-on-year for Sunbeam in line with market growth.

“Sunbeam plans to continue this trend into the second half of 2018, launching key innovations to drive category value and growth,” category manager, Daniel Aylward said.

AR BENCHTOP COOKING

Jessica Hull – De’Longhi.

“The one-pot cooking category continues to grow as consumers look for versatile products to solve the challenge of providing families healthy and convenient meal solutions throughout the week,” he added.

Sunbeam claims that with the return of the Crock-Pot brand to Australia, the slow cooker category has seen tremendous growth. “After launching in the 1970’s, Crock-Pot is the number one global slow cooking brand and loved by Australians,” Aylward said.

Panasonic says its bread makers are an attractive choice for busy consumers wanting to save time and money while still taking care of their health.

“Our bread makers enable greater control over ingredients, easily cater to dietary requirements with the inclusion of a 100% Gluten Free mode, as well as specialty modes, make bread overnight with a 13 hour preset timer and automatically mix and knead ingredients for the perfect dough for cakes and gourmet loaves,” product marketing manager for whitegoods and small appliances, Chasnyn Ousmand said.

Philips claims to hold the number one position in multi-cookers in volume, with the best-selling model on the market, the Original AllIn-One, according to GfK data.

Philips attributes its success to the multifunctionality of its products that can cook, slow cook, bake and steam, as well as make rice and yoghurt.

Philips marketing assistant for domestic appliances, Constance Khoo said, “The desire to create hearty and healthy meals, while still having time to spend with loved ones, remains our target audience’s main priority.

According to FoodCorps most recent seasonal trend forecast, winter soups are predicted to be in top 20 most searched words.

22

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

“THE ONE-POT COOKING CATEGORY CONTINUES TO GROW AS CONSUMERS LOOK FOR VERSATILE PRODUCTS TO SOLVE THE CHALLENGE OF PROVIDING FAMILIES HEALTHY AND CONVENIENT MEAL SOLUTIONS THROUGHOUT THE WEEK.” – Sunbeam, Daniel Aylward

“Our 2018 winter campaign, Hijack the Dinner Routine, aims to challenge the status quo by genuinely disrupting consumers’ existing routine and demonstrating how they can have a better dinner time experience using the Philips Deluxe All in One. “Users can ‘set and forget’ a meal so they have the freedom to enjoy more quality time with the family. Dinner also becomes revolutionised as users can cook a variety of dishes with the various functions. For example, transform a basic bolognese into shepherd’s pie, chili con carne and moussaka.” AR

Chasnyn Ousmand – Panasonic.

High temperature Sear Function

Dedicated cooking app

Dishwasher safe plates

Optional waffle plate accessories

The Benchmark in benchtop cooking.

De’Longhi have a new range of Benchtop appliances for specialist purposes and multi-purpose solutions. No matter what your needs – frying, one-pot cooking, grilling, roasting or baking, there’s a benchtop appliance to suit your needs. Open a world of culinary possibilities with the benchmark in benchtop cooking – De’Longhi. For more information, contact your De’Longhi representative on 1800 126 659 or visit www.delonghi.com.au.

EO241250.M MULTIOVEN

CGH1012D MULTIGRILL

*Featured: Multigrill CGH1012D

FS6055 DEEP FRYER

FS8065 DEEP FRYER

F28313.BK ROTOFRY

FH1396 MULTICUISINE MULTICOOKER

AR BENCHTOP COOKING Kenwood kCook Multi Smart

K

enwood will launch a connected thermo cooker, the Kenwood kCook Multi Smart, designed to make preparing and creating homemade meals easy. It is supported by an app that not only controls the machine but works with six pre-set functions. The app also provides inspiration from the recipe bank and social community; offers smart swaps for ingredients; onscreen weighing with connected scales, and prompts users when it is time for the next step of the recipe.

Described as “best in class in every aspect” by Kenwood, the thermo cooker boasts the widest temperature range in the market, from 30 degrees to 180 degrees Celsius, to fry, cook and brown, the largest bowl in the market with a 4.5 litre capacity, the largest steam basket with a 7.2 litre capacity and the longest slow cooking capacity up to eight hours.

The new De’Longhi MultiOven has been designed for kitchen spaces without a traditional oven. The triple surround cooking system combines three elements and a fan to provide fan-forced cooking and replicate the functionality of an oven in a 24 litre compact and portable appliance.

It offers pre-set features, a large temperature range and a thermally insulated double-glass door for an RRP of $349.

24

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

RANGES

Multicookers, slow cookers, grills and more Another new benchtop cooking appliance from De’Longhi is the three-inone MultiGrill that can be used as a closed contact grill, a raised oven grill or opened as a full sized barbecue grill.

Diecast aluminium plates have embedded heating elements with individual temperature control. The pre-set sear function automatically brings both plates up to 230 degrees to sear steaks quickly and precisely. The MultiGrill

ˮTHE KENWOOD KCOOK MULTI SMART BOASTS THE WIDEST TEMPERATURE RANGE IN THE MARKET, THE LARGEST BOWL, THE LARGEST STEAM BASKET AND THE LONGEST SLOW COOKING CAPACITY UP TO EIGHT HOURS.ˮ

app will guide users when they select the cut of meat, size, and quantity and desired results. Interchangeable waffle plates are also available as an optional accessory.

For the health-conscious consumer, De’Longhi will release two new deep fryers in a 1.5kg or 2kg capacity for an RRP of $179 and $229, respectively.

Alternatively, the De’Longhi Rotofry (RRP $179) has a patented rotating angled basket that uses 50% less oil to drip the food in and out.

De’Longhi will also continue to champion its MultiCuisine range with pre-set cooking programs and temperature settings, ideal for ‘set and forget’ dinners.

The Tefal MultiCook & Grains (RRP $299.95) offers a range of health benefits thanks to exclusive patented technology that allows faster soaking times for chickpeas, beans and lentils, when compared to traditional soaking methods.

This makes it an ideal appliance for vegetarian and vegan consumers.

It can also be used to make entire meals, soups, desserts and more.

Sunbeam Slow Cooker HP5530

Panasonic Bread Maker SD-ZB2512

Sunbeam’s slow cooker range will expand with the introduction of the largest slow cooker on the market.

With a 7.5 litre capacity, the Sunbeam slow cooker is suitable for the largest family gathering or those wanting to prepare meals in advance. The CrockPot range will also expand this winter with the introduction of the Crock-Pot Express Crock MultiCooker.

Panasonic continues to enhance the features of its bread makers with capabilities that meet special dietary requirements, as well as intelligent functions that make it simple to create loaves and cakes. With recognition from the Coeliac Australia Endorsement Program, the SDZB2512 and SD-2501 bread makers display the ‘Crossed Grain’ logo in store for shoppers to see that they offer a 100% Gluten Free mode.

The SD-ZB2512 and SD-2501 bread makers make a variety of loaves as well as jams and compotes, and offer a 13-hour timer. The diamond-fluoro coated pan means bread never burns or sticks, and ensures easy cleaning.

The Philips Deluxe All in One multicooker (HD2145) has a dual-temp control system to accurately control the cooking temperature, reduce heat fluctuation by 50% (compared to

Philips HD2137), and cooks perfectly tender meat up to six times faster. It also offers 18 safety features and an 'add ingredient' function, which allows users to pause the pressure cooking process to add vegetables at a later stage to avoid overcooking. RRP is $349. AR Philips Deluxe All-In-One Cooker HD2145

98% AUSTRALIA WIDE COVERAGE DOOR-TO-DOOR WITH QLS GROUP TRUCKS

Y IA LL FFIC A'S O NOW ALI

TR AUS IGGESR TOF B C L E NE Y REC YST YRE POL

– Deliveries & Returns direct to your customers from QLS Group Warehouse – Tasmania: DAILY door-to-door, No On-Forwarders – Northern Territory: WEEKLY door-to-door, No On-Forwarders – Outstanding Customer Service Nationally on Whitegoods, Brown goods, Ugly & Oversized Freight For more information: qlslogistics.com.au

AR BENCHTOP COOKING

Crock-Pot Express Crock Multi-Cooker CPE200 `` One touch meal options `` Family size 5.5 litre capacity `` Airtight locking lid `` Dishwasher safe non-stick bowl for easy cleaning

RRP: $149

Sunbeam: 1300 881 861 Consumers can slow cook, steam, sauté or pressure cook meals using just one appliance, up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods. It also includes a recipe book and keep warm function.

Tefal Cook4Me+

PRODUCT GALLERY

`` Six cooking settings `` 150 pre-programmed recipes `` Intuitive LCD control panel `` Non-stick and dishwasher safe cooking bowl

RRP: $399

Groupe SEB: 1300 307 824 With over 100 meals that can be cooked in less than 15 minutes, this all-in-one multicooker guides users step-by-step to create meals quickly and easily. Users can make two, four or six servings with ingredients and quantities automatically adjusted.

De’Longhi 24L Benchtop MultiOven EO241250M `` Triple surround cooking system `` Six functions `` Two pre-set features `` Thermally insulated doubleglass door

RRP: $349

De’Longhi: 1800 126 659

26

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

This appliance captures the functionality of a fan-forced oven in a compact footprint, designed for spaces that do not house a traditional oven as kitchens become smaller in size.

With six cooking programs from main meal, sauce, steam, stir fry and dessert, consumers can prepare and cook a full meal using just this machine.

Users can also slice, grate and prepare ingredients with the Direct Prep attachment, while using the steam tray to steam vegetables, fish or chicken.

Kenwood kCook Multi Smart `` 1500 watt heating, 550 watt motor `` 2.6 litre bowl capacity `` 7.2 litre steaming tray `` Includes a knife blade, stir tool and whisk tool

RRP: $1,499

De’Longhi: 1800 126 659

Philips Deluxe All-In-One Multicooker `` Programmable cooking settings `` Automatic keep warm function `` Tailor-made recipe book `` Safety protection system

RRP: $349

Philips: 1300 363 391 Ingredients are cooked perfectly under accurate control of pressure and temperature thanks to the dual sensor with 50% reduction in heat fluctuation.

PROMOTIONS

DE’LONGHI

The De’Longhi benchtop cooking range will be launched with an extensive in-store focus and training program with dedicated point-ofsale. To coincide with Christmas, there will be a consumer offer for the MultiCuisine range and new MultiGrill.

KENWOOD

When consumers purchase a Kenwood kCook Multi Smart in August, they will receive one month of recipes for four people (valued at over $399), via redemption. Kenwood will also partner with Marley Spoon to create a total meal service offering.

SUNBEAM

The 'Family Winter Winners’ campaign will run in stores throughout winter to hero key Sunbeam cooking products through recipes created by the Sunbeam test kitchen. The successful ‘Man vs.

Hunger’ campaign will be repeated. www.applianceretailer.com.au

27

2018 AR INDUSTRY LEADERS FORUM

Industry Leaders Forum

BERTAZZONI

General Manager – Sales George Alikakos

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

More appliances are becoming connected with intelligent functionality and energy saving capacity. The Bertazzoni connected oven made its debut at this year’s EuroCucina to demonstrate real time accessibility to functions that can get consumers fed after a long commute from work or after school activities. The constant enhancement consumers are looking for is energy use and consumption. In Europe the drive to A Class efficiencies is a constant request. It would be remiss of me not to mention colour. Bertazzoni offers multiple colour options, matt powder paint, enamel paint, and metal and stone finishes.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

What a time to bring to life a family-owned business since 1882 – history takes time and with six generations of learning and enhancements, Bertazzoni is moving towards more direct involvement in markets around the world and I have the opportunity to bring this quality and style to the Australian market. No real prediction just a desire to work hard for our consumers and retailer partners.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY:

It is important to engage with the end consumer to offer great service and a functional product without smoke and mirrors.

Quality costs money and premium finish is not achieved by cutting corners. Listening to the market and being on trend is important – shouting “fake news” is easily broken down with the truth. Performance must match the hype otherwise the long term plan will fail.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

The Australian market has grown so much, with greater needs and desires than ever before. You need to stand for something or belong to the movement for greater efficiency.

Believing in something and investing in its long term future has never been so important – relationships with the long game in mind will equal success.

28

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

CANON

Director – Consumer Imaging Jason McLean

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

We are guided by just one thing – our mission to offer consumers the best experience possible in whatever way they would like to engage with us. That mission drives us to scrutinise established paradigms and emerging trends to deliver that experience. At retail it’s no surprise that people want to get hands-on with product. Demonstration is also critical. At the same time, the concept of ownership is changing with the rise of the sharing economy.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

The passion for imaging is strong and there is untapped potential when you reframe your role as a brand. We have ground-breaking work coming to fruition to highlight the relevance of Canon in people’s lives and turn up in ways that are relevant and useful.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: Our industry still appears to struggle with a wholehearted focus on the consumer. We all know that there are many reasons why consumers are ‘sold‘ to, rather than ‘listened‘ to, but ultimately that is a negative for the industry. Focusing on consumers’ objectives, rather than our own, creates a cycle of achievement, growth, satisfaction and advocacy – and that creates lifelong consumers.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Our message for the past four or five years has consistently been that as an industry we need to listen to the consumer and partner for success in meeting their needs. We have to be brave, look at the world differently and reimagine our role in it. By understanding that consumers have passions and will make up their own minds we can either decide to be part of their plans or run the risk of irrelevance.

DYSON ANZ

Managing Director Glenn Andrew

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

In floorcare, customers are moving away from big, bulky corded machines. Thanks to our digital motor technology at the heart of the Dyson Cyclone V10 cord-free vacuum, we have produced a cord-free vacuum with full-size suction power, and no compromise in versatility. In haircare, we continue to see misconceptions around the need for ‘extreme heat’ to style hair. This is why we invested £50 million in the development of the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer and created a state of the art laboratory dedicated to investigating the science of hair. When it comes to environmental control, air pollution is a global conversation and attention is moving from outdoor air quality to indoor.

ˮWE ARE ABOUT BETTER IDEAS AND BETTER TECHNOLOGIES TO SOLVE THE PROBLEMS THAT OTHERS OFTEN IGNORE. WE INVEST OVER AU$14 MILLION PER WEEK IN RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.ˮ

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

At Dyson, we transform every category we enter with radical and iconic reinventions that work, perform and look very different. We are about better ideas and better technologies, to solve the problems that others often ignore. We invest over AU$14 million per week in research and development to bring intelligent machines to market. We will continue to expand our product portfolio within existing and new categories into next year.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: Categories are grown by innovation, not by imitation. A continued influx of vastly inferior copy-cat products will be detrimental to market value and consumer confidence. The Dyson Supersonic hair dryer has grown the value of the hair dryer category by 45% since launch (GfK data).

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

In a competitive retail landscape, the most successful retailers are those who invest in technology and innovation. Dyson now employs 4,450 engineers and scientists and our technology pervades everything we manufacture. We have an obsessive focus on the performance of our products so we are ambitious for the future and we go where our technology takes us.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS

The shopping experience provided by retailers in Australia is among the best in the world. The bigger and better instore product displays are a response to the social mediaenlightened consumers who know what they are looking for.

Michael Doyle

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Sales Director

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

Consumer recommendations and advocacy on social media is driving initial product choice while investment in store product displays is bigger and better than ever.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

Electrolux is planning new product launches which will create opportunities to drive more consumers into stores.

This is similar to what happened in the second half of 2017 and we see no reason why the second half of 2018 won’t be a mirror of last year.

Electrolux is looking forward to the expansion of our most recent acquisitions, Vintec and BeefEater, and its Unilux appliance accessories range. In addition, Electrolux is planning new product launches of large French Door refrigerators and more cooking appliances. Our new Contact Centre and Electrolux Experience Centre at Casula in Sydney’s south-west, due to open in the third quarter, will enhance both the Electrolux customer and consumer product experience. Finally, Electrolux strongly believes that retailers should continue to support established brands in the increasingly competitive marketplace because only their suppliers can support quality products with retail product training and knowledge and assured after-sales service. www.applianceretailer.com.au

29

AR INDUSTRY LEADERS FORUM

EUROLINX

National Sales Manager Tristan Peters

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

Capacity seems to be key in kitchen design. We are seeing increasing demand for larger capacity ovens, particularly in the 76cm and 90cm sizes. Larger freestanding units like our 120cm and 150cm models are being installed together with built-in products such as combination steam ovens and combination microwaves. There is also a focus on integrated kitchens, where everything works in harmony in both function and style. Demand for larger capacity refrigeration, both built-in and integrated, is evident by the activity in this category. Also exciting is the interest around the freestanding category, including colours and above 90cm sizes.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

After a fairly quiet start to 2018, I see a strong uplift coming for the remainder of the year and beyond. As the real estate market, particularly in Sydney, softens we should see an increase in renovations, which as we know, usually starts with the kitchen.

ˮCUSTOMERS ARE BETTER INFORMED THAN THEY HAVE EVER BEEN AND WITH OPTIONS AS TO WHERE TO PURCHASE. IT'S UP TO THE RETAILER TO ENGAGE THEM AND PROVIDE A VALUABLE AND MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE. ˮ CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: Customers are better informed than they have ever been and with options as to where to purchase. It’s up to the retailer to engage them and provide a valuable and memorable experience. Only then will they be rewarded with their business.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Customer service is key. Price is not always the deciding factor with more customers looking for not only unique and bespoke products, but also a memorable shopping experience.

FUJITSU GENERAL Managing Director Philip Perham

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

For retailers and suppliers alike, continuing to develop experiences for customers that create greater connection and engagement. Consumers have moved beyond buying just products or services. They are looking to make daily activities easier, which the online platform provides. They also want to enrich and enhance their lives, and that’s where the experience and sense of community is provided by clever retailers and suppliers.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

Consumer confidence seems to have improved in recent months and retail spending figures are reasonably positive, so I expect mild growth for most sectors in the second half and into 2019. From an air conditioning perspective, the industry has just been through its second record year and we are predicting this trend to continue.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY:

I think in general the industry is in a relatively strong position. The acquisition of The Good Guys by JB Hi-Fi is now fully bedded down and all the major retail groups are continuing to look to innovate and value-add where possible.

A determined focus on staff and product training is important for all organisations, as this will provide the best opportunity to engage customers on the floor and provide them with the solution that best meets their needs.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

As the industry is constantly evolving and changing, keeping strong open relationships between suppliers and retailers will allow both parties to take advantage of opportunities, and to create new and exciting initiatives together. In today’s fast paced world, these relationships are more vital than ever but they must be built on mutual benefit and trust.

30

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

GLEM GAS AUSTRALASIA Managing Director David Gilmore

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

Cooking appliances seem to be sold everywhere from hardware and bulk stores to supermarkets and online. In products, there is trialling of new technology in ovens with combinations of microwave, steam and convection. There are new products being launched with some fanfare with connectivity and automation. Time will tell whether any of this has longevity. The kitchen continues to develop as a lifestyle hub in the home.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

We expect it to be more of the same in terms of market demand, there are no apparent reasons for there to be a change and I have given up predicting anything else.

GROUPE SEB

Managing Director

Cécile Goron Vaucelle

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

As no small domestic appliance (SDA) product is fundamental in life, our role as industry leaders, manufacturer or retailer, is to encourage the shopper to accelerate renewal and buy higher value products. To do so, we need to create excitement around the category by leveraging enjoyment and ease of use.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

In 2018 to date, Groupe SEB Australia has experienced strong double-digit sales growth. In 2017, we became market leaders in linen care and cookware, as well as in multicookers with Cook4Me, grills with OptiGrill, and heating food preparation with Cuisine Companion. As we move into the second half, we foresee this growth to continue, supported by further launches in linen care and cookware,

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: In the past the cooking segment didn’t suffer from the same margin squeeze as other segments, it was a specialist product. In 2018, products sourced from low cost countries and the expansion of cooking appliances into non-specialist retailers has tightened things considerably. The customer is more empowered because they have so much product information available at their fingertips. They are better informed to make the purchase decision unaided and so price becomes a bigger factor.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

We are developing new products in our factory in Modena and we are staying in our core areas of strength – gas appliances.

We are managing the distribution chain of our products and making sure that we provide value and a decent consumer experience. New premium models will lift average selling prices and help bring back the specialisation in cooking.

and the addition of new products in electrical cooking. We are reinforcing our ambassadorship with Justine Schofield and sponsorship of Everyday Gourmet. We are also investing heavily in digital and TV advertising. In 2019, we have a solid innovation plan focused on healthy living, healthy cooking and the enjoyment of cooking.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY:

Coming from Europe, I have been surprised to see limited growth of the SDA category in Australia. Product renewal only represents one-third of SDA purchases, therefore we need to ensure that shoppers upgrade to a more efficient product to grow category value. For example, our research data shows that once a consumer has tried and enjoyed the benefits of a steam generator, they upgrade to a more efficient and innovative model.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

The market dynamic is in our hands so we must engage consumers to go into store, discover new categories and renew their equipment. Focus on brands and innovation, drive awareness with powerful campaigns and create excitement at store level to invite shoppers to enjoy their shopping experience. www.applianceretailer.com.au

31

AR INDUSTRY LEADERS FORUM

ËŽKITCHENS ARE A REFLECTION OF THE HOUSEHOLD PERSONALITY AND STYLE AND ARE SEEN AS NOT ONLY AN INVESTMENT IN LIFESTYLE BUT AN INVESTMENT THAT ADDS REAL MONETARY VALUE.ËŽ

JURA

Managing Director George Liakatos

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

There is still a lot of noise about the connected home and smart appliances. When these advances address the needs of the consumer neatly and succinctly we will see the most benefit for the industry. Too often we fill our products with over engineered and insignificant technical advancements that sound amazing but offer no real value to the consumer.

HITACHI

Executive General Manager Gaurav Sethi

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

In refrigeration, consumers are looking beyond white or metallic finishes with glass in the kitchen very on-trend.

Consumers are seeking refrigerators that are stylish, functional and energy efficient. A good example is Hitachi's Made in Japan series of French Door refrigerators. The flagship RX730GAX features a vacuum compartment, fully mirrored glass French Doors with swipe-to-open technology and soft touch drawers. In laundry, consumers want to spend more time doing the things they enjoy, by moving to larger capacity washing machines. Hitachi has addressed this rising demand by releasing 10kg, 13kg and 20kg models with high energy and water efficiencies.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

Hitachi is confident that business will continue to grow into 2019. Working closely with our strategic retailer partners we will continue to grow sales and release innovative products over the next 12 months.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY:

Modern kitchens are the hub of the home, a gathering point for family and an area where guests are entertained. Kitchens are a reflection of the household personality and style and are seen as not only an investment in lifestyle but an investment that adds real monetary value to a home.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Savvy consumers are looking for greater choice. They are seeking products that will differentiate them from their family and friends. Retailers who can offer reputable brands and products with unique features and finishes, backed by extensive warranty and service, will expand their consumer appeal.

32

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

Continued and sustained growth. 2017 was one of our most successful on record due largely to the unprecedented development and innovation of our products across all segments, as well as a return to positive economic development across the globe. Our growth has been fueled by bringing our technical knowhow and features in our premium products across our entire range. With the product pipeline firmly cemented across the next two years we will see this development continue with further diversification in various segments.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: Sustainability continues to be a major focus for consumers.

Products or brands that get on the front foot of this growing issue will be better able to respond. Brands that seem to be performing well are those focused not only on product innovations but ancillary services. At Jura, we are investing in service, support and in store execution with Jura Live, Service 24/7 and our new premium POS concept.

Innovation in these areas provides a distinct advantage and again, adds real value to the consumer.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

As long as the market continues to be buoyant and responsive we should see another strong year. We are genuinely excited to continue to deliver products and services that excite and offer real value to our consumers.

We look forward to sharing news of these innovations with our retail partners in due course.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

KLEENMAID CEO

Danny Hamilton

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

Having attended IFA in Berlin, and more recently, EuroCucina in Milan, industry trends are promoting the total integration of home appliances and technology. Although this is being presented, we do not necessarily agree that these features are what the majority of consumers are looking for, or that they are willing to pay for them. Perfect performance of an appliance – an oven that bakes flawlessly, a washing machine that cleans efficiently – is the bedrock principle on which our customers base their purchasing decisions. They want reliable appliances that provide value and if anything were to go wrong, effective service and support. It is these fundamentals that trigger a desire to purchase.

LG ELECTRONICS

General Manager – Marketing Angus Jones

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

LG has enjoyed a healthy start to the year. In home entertainment, TV and audio products are getting smarter. In 2018, we are offering LG ThinQ voice recognition technology across our entire TV range, changing how our customers interact with their TV. Our home appliance range is one of our strongest line-ups to date. Products like the LG Twin Wash and Instaview fridge are paving the way in innovation and are built to meet the needs of the ever-changing consumer. We are also putting a lot of focus on our cordless vacuum cleaners in 2018 – watch this space.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

We will continue our journey of making customers lives easier – and that is taken one step further by adapting to individual needs. LG products will begin to work seamlessly

We see a continuing uplift in sales and profit as we articulate our brand’s position and offering. Maintaining our core values of who we are and taking our share of the market in which our brand sits is up to management and not at the mercy of the market. We make sales, we don’t simply take them. Opportunity is there but it must be seized.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: An increased confidence and opportunity to increase revenue and bottom line. The weak Euro is putting pressure on margins, particularly on imports from Europe.

However, good management and fiscal discipline can work through these issues.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Never before, at least in recent times, have the opportunities for growth been more available. Only if you are respectful of those in supply, sales and support chains will you see financial returns. Real acceptance and respect that new customers, as well as loyal, lifelong advocates of your brand are the life blood of your growth. A deep rooted commitment to a collaborative and inclusive corporate culture will ensure long term stability and growth.

together across our categories thanks to Google Assistant.

In addition, to the connected home, LG will present more competitive offerings in the market, such as our Quad Wash dishwashers and air conditioning systems.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: As much as online sales continue to grow steadily with our retailers, bricks and mortar continues to be the preferred method for Australians to buy major consumer electronics.

The excitement earlier this year has not changed these shopping habits – not to say we should become complacent.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be a big part of our future innovations. AI-capable products are not something that should be feared, rather these products are meant to learn our habits and make living and life more comfortable. It’s crucial for retail staff to get immersed in this so they can counsel customers on future proofing their homes and understanding how to adapt to these technologies. www.applianceretailer.com.au

33

AR INDUSTRY LEADERS FORUM

MIELE

Managing Director Sjaak Brouwer

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

The customer purchase journey continues to be across multiple channels. Consumers will go where they expect to find the information and the opportunity to buy. Both retailers and brands have to realise this and prepare themselves. It is important to maintain consumer confidence at a high level and provide them with the right experiences.

PREDICTIONS FOR SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

It is difficult to provide a reliable expectation for the year as there are too many elements influencing the overall market sentiment and it could go anywhere. The major risk is that the market will use price as the predominant tool to drive consumers into stores. I believe this would be a dangerous development as it would cause unnecessary value and margin erosion. The focus should be on providing added value for consumers and trading them up to premium.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: It is up to brands and manufacturers to come up with required innovations. Miele has many new products in the pipeline. One example is the TwoInOne, the perfect union of cooktop and extractor. For the first time, the TwoInOne brings together Miele PowerFlex cooking zones with an automatic extractor and intuitive operation. Another key development will be online. In Australia this is still a relatively small part of the market, but it will continue to grow - just as it did in the rest of the world.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

There are great opportunities for both existing and new retail concepts. As long as we all continue to provide the best experience to consumers. That is why at Miele we continue our mission: Immer Besser and create delightful experiences by redefining excellence every day, everywhere.

ˮTHE MAJOR RISK IS THAT THE MARKET WILL USE PRICE AS THE PREDOMINANT TOOL. THIS WOULD BE A DANGEROUS DEVELOPMENT AS IT WOULD CAUSE UNNECESSARY VALUE AND MARGIN EROSION. ˮ

MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC

General Manager – National Sales Zane Barron

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

Energy efficiency is a major concern for Australian consumers, and research shows that 70% think air conditioning is the biggest contributor to high energy usage; however, we predict this to change if electronic design keeps moving at a steady pace. Advances in technology show that our newer models are as much as 40% more efficient than systems from 2002.

Inverter technology is part of our global strategy and is now standard across our entire refrigerator range.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

Consumers are becoming more discerning. While cost is a prime deciding factor in the purchase process, consumers are taking note of Energy Star Ratings and annual running costs. Research indicates that Australians are caring more about the look of their home and in particular, the appearance of kitchen appliances. Recent design trends showcase an influx of modern European kitchen styles and larger sized fridge models now at the forefront of demand.

French door models with a glass finish, subtle LED touch screens, multiple drawers and sections are some of the future trends.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: The air conditioning replacement market continues to grow as consumers change power hungry models to newer energy efficient models. This provides an opportunity for retailers to promote other benefits such as reduced noise, Wi-Fi functionality and more modern designs. We expect the total refrigeration market to see a shift towards French door models, which is expected to grow by 10 to 15% over the next 12 months, at the expense of side-by-side models.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

We will continue to work with our retail partners to develop new air conditioning and refrigerator models, which includes bringing the latest in Japanese technology within reach of all consumers.

34

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

NESPRESSO

Commercial Manager Nicole Parker

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

Experience has become key to long-term engagement. Not being told about a product’s story, but understanding it via experience to ensure customer loyalty. That’s why we shaped the launch of our new system, Vertuo, around experiential activations. To showcase how the machine and coffee work together, Nespresso set up 18 key tasting locations across Australia, more than ever before, all strategically located close to trade partner stores.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

As a nation of coffee connoisseurs, we continue to seek out new and exciting coffee experiences, and this means new coffee varieties and stories with which to connect.

Nespresso’s limited edition coffee ranges invest coffee-lovers

PANASONIC

Director – Consumer Imaging Richard Tassone

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

We believe premium TV products like OLED, and technologies such as voice control, provide the opportunity to create new excitement in the market. Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa will be coming to our OLED TVs later this year and will also be offered on our 4K Blu-ray range.

Research shows that almost 65% of smart speaker owners use their products primarily to listen to music. So when Panasonic launched its first speaker with Google Assistant built-in, the SC-GA10, we focused on our audio heritage to deliver impressive sound.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

The market will be buoyant and engaged across a number of categories. Air conditioning continues to go from strength to strength with Panasonic recently awarded the 2017 Canstar

in the exploration and discovery of our farmer stories and places of origin. For the first time Nespresso will be releasing a new single origin Indonesian coffee later this year.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: As Australians become more in tune with the impact their purchase decisions have on the environment, we are seeing an increase in consumers’ interest in food provenance and where their coffee comes from. Internal research conducted in 2017 found that one-third of Australians now only drink sustainably-sourced coffee. Nespresso’s AAA Sustainable Quality Coffee Program is key to our customer coffee education. This program was founded almost 15 years ago and has over 70,000 farmers across 12 countries adopting sustainable farming practices.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Coffee aficionados and conscious consumers want more than just a quick cuppa. They want to enjoy something with a positive impact and a story to understand. This sense of exploration and connection is what is drawing people to seek out experiences with their daily grind and consciously engage with meaningful product stories back to the origins.

Blue customer satisfaction review. Our premium OLED and 4K TVs deliver an amazing viewing experience and compatibility with HDR10+ dynamic metadata technology.

Our leadership in micro hi-fi will see us add Chromecast technology to the range with the HC2020. The high-end imaging category will be one to watch.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY:

We acknowledge the strong pressures in the Australian market. However, we believe there is opportunity to engage closely with consumers, with a command of product trends and understanding of what the customer is looking for, to close that deal. To keep consumer mindshare and retain value, both retailers and manufacturers must continue to connect with their customers, while negotiating the challenges and changes in today’s rapidly moving marketplace.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Panasonic looks forward to working with our key partners to take advantage of the opportunities ahead. We feel excited about the potential to take up new challenges and see our company vision evolve with the changing lifestyles and preferences of Australians. www.applianceretailer.com.au

35

AR INDUSTRY LEADERS FORUM

SMEG

Managing Director Jim Kalotheos

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS Director of Home Appliances Jeremy Senior

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

Advances in design and connectivity are the strongest influences on innovation in our industry. Developing meaningful innovation is an essential part of our philosophy.

For example, it’s not enough for us to simply offer Wi-Fi connectivity on our washing machines. Instead, we developed the Q-rator laundry assistant app to add genuine intelligence to the mix. It recommends the optimal wash cycle, lets users start the wash cycle remotely via smartphone, and interrupt the cycle or delay the load finish time. Other developments include continued popularity of French door refrigeration and importance of design. We are seeing strong acceptance of black stainless finish and will expand our offering to meet this demand. Our Family Hub range continues to be the pinnacle of our connected appliances, encompassing style, connectivity, flexibility, and new apps.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

We expect to see Australians develop a better understanding of connectivity within the home, and the significant role it can play. They will start realising even more how devices can be brought together and deliver a meaningful impact on their lives. We are also going to see connectivity expanding further into other areas such as cooking and floorcare.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: The industry continues to be highly competitive. Product features are more advanced and Australians are leveraging different means to access information. They have become savvier in how they find solutions to meet their needs. We need to ensure we are not just offering good features and value but ensuring that how we display and communicate our product benefits is in line with shopper expectations.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Samsung has a strong history of delivering innovative products to Australian consumers and this is our ongoing commitment to the market. As connectivity of devices becomes an even bigger part of our lives, it is critical that manufacturers and retailers work together to ensure we are effectively communicating and showcasing these benefits.

36

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

The role of design is a key trend. Kitchen appliances have evolved from formulaic boxes to beautifully designed furniture. Authenticity is also key and something Smeg has been passionate about for decades as the only brand to work with world leading architects and designers to ensure integrity and authenticity in design. Technology is another huge trend but it has to make a genuine contribution to ease of life. Consumers no long want technology for technology’s sake. At EuroCucina, Smeg showcased appliances with accompanying apps that demonstrate real consumer benefit and the response was overwhelming. Attendance on the Smeg stand was 45% up on the previous occasion.

ˮTHE ROLE OF DESIGN IS A KEY TREND...

TECHNOLOGY IS ANOTHER HUGE TREND BUT IT HAS TO MAKE A GENUINE CONTRIBUTION TO EASE OF LIFE. CONSUMERS NO LONGER WANT TECHNOLOGY FOR TECHNOLOGY'S SAKE.ˮ PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

Continued low interest rates are driving renovations – a great boon to kitchen appliances. Although the market is buoyant there will be increased retail competition – consumers are looking for far more than a good deal.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY:

Brands will increasingly try to introduce appliances that are individual in design, colour and finish. But if it is not within the corporate structure of a company to do this, it will be privately owned companies with the passion and belief in outstanding design that will invest in totally consumer focused products.

Smeg will continue to infuse products with fun, edgy design, features and facets that only Smeg could deliver. In essence, that’s who Smeg is and that’s how we bring family together.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Now is a really exciting time to engage with our brand as we have gone to the next level in design and technology. We have so many stories to tell, on so many levels – and that’s exactly what great sales people do, tell great stories. Do not underestimate how much the consumer is looking to us, the industry, to inspire them and help them realise their dreams of the perfect kitchen.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

UNIDEN

National Marketing and Communications Manager Brad Hales

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular in Australia with the introduction of Google Home, Apple Homekit and Amazon Alexa. Consumers are looking for products with this technology to enable seamless integration in the home. They want to know what is going on in and outside the home 24/7 and manage their daily life with the help of smart devices. Home security products allow consumers to take home deliveries while at work and check in on the property while overseas. Smart technology integration will be seen in future products from Uniden and drive further growth in this category.

WINNING GROUP CEO

John Winning

THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY TRENDS:

More market consolidation. Even JB Hi-Fi is reporting that profits are not growing in line with sales and they will be chasing greater market share, indicating tighter margins. If you see the 500 pound gorilla struggling for margins then you have to assume that the little guys are doing it tough.

Winning Group is not such a small player anymore and if we are seeing double digit sales growth, while JB Hi-Fi is chasing market share at the same time as Amazon, in a market that is barely above flat, then someone or many have to give. In the long term, the mass market will see similar changes to what occurred in the US and UK – large household names will be put under extreme pressure by Amazon and other online players who convert customers to online shopping.

Uniden is looking forward to a strong second half of 2018 with marketing campaigns and new product planned for Q3 and into 2019. Home security and dash cam marketing campaigns will appear on national radio, while product ambassadors will promote UHF radio and dash cams from outdoor 4WD TV shows. Uniden will see development of AI in some product categories to ensure connectivity is taken to the next level.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: Growth in smart connectivity has seen an increased interest in new features and technology as consumers become more tech savvy. The demand for products with high end specifications grows as brands offer more features across mid to high-end products in order to hold value longer.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

The security market is showing no signs of slowing down.

Uniden has been in the consumer technology market for more than 50 years, investing in its own technology with a strong R&D team in Japan. This is backed by a strong sales team, offering support and on hand to help with in-store merchandise executions. Uniden offers a complete range of home and business security solutions from wire-free, Wi-Fi and wired security cameras.

PREDICTIONS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2018 AND INTO 2019:

Retailers with no point of difference in service or experience will struggle to remain relevant. Customer service and experience will continue to grow in importance as competition continues to increase. Meeting and exceeding delivery expectations will define who will succeed and grow. Post sale satisfaction is a defining factor in achieving loyal customers.

CURRENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY AND WHY: Customers are starting to get fed up with old tactics of large interest free deals and huge percentage savings that are not representative of real savings. I think our industry is looking for everyday low pricing and not he or she who haggles the best, wins. That world is dying and I for one am glad. Retailers that go above and beyond for their customers and demonstrate honesty, integrity, fairness and genuine care will succeed.

YOUR OVERALL MESSAGE TO THE MARKET:

Buckle up and get ready for things to change dramatically. www.applianceretailer.com.au

37

AR FATHER’S DAY

OUTLOOK

Beard maintenance versus the faster shave

C

BY KYMBERLY MARTIN

onvenience has remained a significant consideration for personal care appliances with time-poor Australians continuing to drive demand for products that not only perform the respective task in a shorter amount of time, but also ensure high quality results. “Consequently, companies have increased research and development to introduce new hair care appliances, body shavers and beard trimmers with improved technology and additional features with accessories that are suited for contemporary beard and hair styling trends,” Euromonitor research analyst, Jorge Rosas said. “Australian consumers remain very mindful of personal styling, and as new beard and hair trends continue to arrive they are more inclined to buy personal care appliances with meaningful innovative features to help them obtain such results in the comfort of their home.”

Research from GfK shows there was a shift in the market for male grooming products, away from detail trimmers toward beard trimmer types 38

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

that hold a higher average selling price.

However, this source of value growth was negated by ongoing declines in standard men’s shavers. In dental care, much of the volume growth was attributed to brush refills, with value growth explained by the increasing popularity of smart-connected rechargeable toothbrushes.

Father’s Day is an important time for retailers as many consumers will be out and about purchasing gifts for this special occasion, according to Australian Retailers Association executive director, Russell Zimmerman. “Australians love to get involved in any sort of celebration and a reason to give consumers an extra push in-store, or easier click online, the more beneficial it is for retailers.”

He said from a retailing perspective, Father’s Day is not as important as Mother’s Day, so total spend is usually much less and it is one day of the year that is hard to pinpoint consumer direct spend. “With the ABS retail trade figures coming out two months in arrears, we won’t know how successful September trading was until November.

“Our readers are electronics retailers so Father’s Day gift options can range from shavers and tech products through to coffee machines and electronics.”

Zimmerman said retail is a very competitive environment at present and it was essential that retailers take every opportunity to promote their products and services.

“This does not mean it has to be about price cutting but adding value for money may achieve better results than discounting and when selling electronic products look for something that can be a bonus. As an example if selling a laptop, a complimentary Bluetooth mouse will not only entice the sale, it adds value to the consumer’s original purchase.

The product you give away has a greater ‘retail value’ to the customer, but often will have cost the retailer much less from a cost price,” he said. “It is important retailers look to promote Father’s Day because the more you promote the event then more people will see it as an important date to remember.”

Father’s Day is a strong event for specialty retailer, Shaver Shop, when grooming product innovation tends to be geared heavily towards the back half of the year, CEO and managing director, Cameron Fox said. “Online plays a significant role in the Shaver Shop landscape, and we expect online will continue to increase over the Father’s Day period.” Read more from Cameron Fox in From the Floor on page 41.

Panasonic home appliance group category manager, Yasushi Mori, also said choosing the right shaving tool was essential for the time-poor man.

“What most men need is a shaver that will get the job done when the clock is ticking but still provide a first-class, barber-like experience,” he said.

Uniden marketing communications manager, Brad Hales said Father’s Day always offers robust sales opportunities across Uniden categories, with in-car and in-home tech gadgets on wish lists. “Uniden’s growing range of home security products and recently launched smart dash cams provide consumers with additional security and safety, on the road and around the home,” he said. AR

TRENDS

Follow the style guide with precision grooming

P

anasonic research has revealed that a cleanshaven face comes across as more professional in the workplace and is preferred by 57% of partners at home.

“In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a well-groomed appearance, quickly and easily, is essential to style success,” Yasushi Mori said. “Consumers should make sure their shaver has a pivoting head to follow the contours of their face and protect skin from irritation, along with a multi-blade system to gently cut whiskers at the root.”

Cindie Yates – Conair.

Styling continues to be an important growth category in the Braun portfolio as the trend for precision grooming continues to rise.

“This has resulted in an increased focus on the beard trimmer and 9-in-1 multi grooming kit”, assistant brand manager, Leonard Englert said.

“However, while styling has been prominent, pioneering smart thinking and smart technologies within our male grooming product portfolio will continue to be a core differentiator.”

He said Father’s Day is a key consumption period for consumers and a key selling focus for Braun.

Father’s Day is also peak season for shaving, grooming and technology, Conair category manager, Cindie Yates said. “Trends in fashion and men’s style will continue to drive male

grooming products as key gift giving items,” she said. “Trends on the top of the list are the ‘undercut’, which is a popular style that guys will sport at least once during their adult life.

“Another key trend that’s here to stay is the bearded look, from shorter beards that verge on thick stubble, to fuller, bushier and scruffy beards. A more natural-looking beard is also popular, suited to the silver-haired over 40’s.” According to Yates, beard care products are essential to maintain this look, and while beards remain popular minimal facial hair styles are still favoured.

Father’s Day is the second biggest season after Christmas for Spectrum Brands. “This is reflected in solid sales across the Remington shave and groom categories,” marketing manager, personal care, Jo Clark said.

Uniden products have been strong this year, with additions to most categories including surveillance, dash cams and a new Jump Start Kit, described as the ultimate travel companion while camping, driving or boating.

The dash cam category continues to expand with the amount of road users increasing each year. These devices give drivers the ability to capture important moments with benefits from additional vehicle safety and security features.

Along with in-car gadgets such as dash cams and the Jump Start Kit, the

Brad Hales – Uniden.

Jo Clark – Spectrum Brands.

UHF radio category continues to drive sales and is always a popular Father’s Day gift for outdoor adventurers.

“Thanks to our strong relationships with the leading 4WD and outdoor adventure media, our UHF products and accessories are continually being put to the test to demonstrate their exceptional performance in some of the toughest environments,” Brad Hales said. “Our current range has been refined, based on the feedback of some of the most experienced road users and also our fast-growing social media community. When it comes to research, you can’t beat genuine customer feedback,” he said.

Another popular category for Uniden is home security. The introduction of the App Cam Solo in the wire free home security category provides consumers with an easy to use remote access camera that can be placed anywhere inside and outside the home.

Father’s Day is generally focused around gifts in the health and wellbeing category that often suits the season’s cooler months, was the view put forward by FitZone Solutions director, Mario Russo.

“It tends to revolve around spoiling the significant males in the family with products that they may not think of purchasing themselves. Given the time of year and seasonal influence gift favourites include products that soothe and warm those ‘fatherly bodies’ amongst us,” she said. AR www.applianceretailer.com.au

39

AR FATHER’S DAY

Kit Dad out with a

gift bag T

Remington PowerShaver Pack PR1239

RANGES

he ES-LV9N shaver is the flagship model within the Panasonic range.

The shaving sensor automatically detects beard density and adjusts cutting power accordingly. At the same time, smooth rollers help blades glide over the skin, reducing friction.

The 3D multi-flexible pivot head follows every facial contour, capturing hard-to-get whiskers for a wellgroomed shave result. The ES-LV9N is equipped with the Panasonic fiveblade cutting system, renowned for its precision thanks to Japanese blade technology, inspired by the long sword of the Samurai, the ‘Katana’.

Braun offers a range of premium electric shavers and multi grooming kits. The Braun Beard Trimmer Kit (BT3040) combines functionality, performance and a sleek aesthetic to deliver styling power that caters to the specific needs of the modern man.

With two detachable trimming combs it provides 39 length settings and the precision dial increases in 0.5mm steps to achieve exact length, precise contours and even trim. The 9-in-1 Multi Grooming Kit provides nine grooming tools, while Series 9 AutoSense technology reads and adapts to beard density 160 times a minute in real-time while shaving.

Spectrum Brands is releasing seven new Remington grooming and shaving products for Father’s Day with the hero product the WETech Close Shave (MB6125AU). The shaver features new Lift Logic Japanese blade system and HyperFlex technology with a 360-degree pivoting neck that effortlessly adjusts to facial contours.

It is joined by the Vac Trim Beard Trimmer, a lithium all-in-one Beard Trimmer and Barber’s Best Trimmer that harnesses an ergonomic design with anti-slip rubberised grips for maximum control. The Groom and Go Precision Kit will help tackle any hair and nail revamp on the go while the WETech Capture Pro Shaver captures and trims hair from any direction in one pass. The Power Shaver Pack (PR1239) gift bag comes with a bonus after shave balm.

To help create the aforementioned undercut look at-home, the VSforMen X6 PRO Hair Clipper (VSM1100A) from Conair delivers more intensive cutting power, ultra-hard wearing precision engineered Japanese steel blades with 20% faster cutting in one stroke and a new comb guide that incorporates a curved design for easier and more efficient self-hair clipping.

The X6 PRO also features a lithiumion power for cord/cordless use.

Uniden iGo 60 Dash Cam 40

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

For a more traditional corded style barber clipper, the X5 PRO Hair Clipper (VSM5001A) has extra-firm professional nylon comb guides and is also armed with a powerful magnetic motor said to deliver 20% longer motor life. The new and aptly named Man Kit (VSMK20A) offers a full size rechargeable rotary shaver, an integrated pop-up trimmer and cord/ cordless use, as well a battery operated beard and stubble trimmer.

Uniden’s new range of six smart dash cams can record incidents on the road and while cars are parked with incidents captured in full high definition. With footage lock protection and a wide viewing angle, ranging from 120 to 150 degrees, drivers can be assured important vision has been recorded in high detail around most of the vehicle.

It also offers driver assist features such as a large speedo display, speed/ red light camera warning, and an advanced driver assist system, providing additional safety for long distance drivers and commuters.

Looking ahead, Uniden is expanding its wire-free App Cam Solo range with advanced technology that will enable smart home integration, solar power and data network connection capabilities.

Among the products available from FitZone is the Super Cosy Heated Throw (HD75) featuring an illuminated function display with six temperature settings. Another Father’s Day option is the Massage Foot Warmer (FWM45) with two in-built heat setting options and two massage settings. AR

FROM THE FLOOR

Cameron Fox – Shaver Shop

F

ather’s Day is a strong event for specialty retailer Shaver Shop. Speaking exclusively to Appliance Retailer, CEO and managing director, Cameron Fox said men’s grooming product innovation tends to be geared heavily towards the back half of the year as sales are with Father’s Day, Christmas and Boxing Day, all significant events.

“The irony is we tend to experience an uplift in sales across the female beauty category in the lead-up to Father’s Day.” Fox said this is possibly because women are shopping for a gift for dad and see an item they want. “So dad might end up with a $20 nose and ear trimmer for Father’s Day whilst mum gets a new GHD platinum styler,” he said.

Online plays a significant role in the Shaver Shop landscape with sales growing 66% in the 1HFY18 and Fox sees no reason why online will not

continue to increase over the Father’s Day period. “Our pricing policy is the same for customers who buy instore or online and our product range and brand mix is also consistent. We process online orders from our stores, so we effectively have 116 distribution centres across Australia and New Zealand. Each Shaver Shop team pack and ship online orders to customers in rapid fire time, Fox said. “If there is an issue or concern with a product or order, the customer knows they can deal with our customer service team at the national support office. Or, if they prefer, can pop into their closest local Shaver Shop store where our team are always happy to help out.”

Promotional events are very important to Shaver Shop too.

However, Fox said there are other opportunities beyond promotional events to drive category growth.

“Looking and feeling good tends to be a year-long pursuit for many

people so there are plenty of options to connect and hopefully engage customers. This can be from providing information on new products, latest fashions and trends, tips and advice or simply by showcasing our wide range of products and categories that transcend most personal care grooming requirements.”

As for changes in consumer buying habits, Fox acknowledged there has been a significant amount of focus and discussion around the growth and importance of online and the company is seeing first-hand the opportunity to connect with customers via this channel. However, the majority of customers still prefer to come into the store and `touch and feel’ products on display and appreciate the opportunity to speak to store consultants and ask questions about the product they are considering, he said.

“Regardless of whether a customer is searching online or in-store, one thing is clear and that is the customer is savvier than ever and quite rightfully, expects to receive expert and sincere advice, at the right price.”

It is no great surprise that male grooming products tend to perform strongly in the lead up to Father’s Day. Categories that are expected to perform strongly include electric shavers, beard trimmers, hair clippers, body groomers, wet shaving gift packs and shaving brushes, Fox said.

However, there are plenty of other products and categories that tend to make it on the Father’s Day favourites list. Categories such as power oral care, teeth whitening products, circulation boosters, portable massage and items under $20 are also popular. “Gillette blades and razor handles, toiletry bags, shave creams, post shave products, travel/ battery shavers and nose and ear trimmers always get a bit of a kick in sales in the lead-up to Father’s Day too,” Fox said.

When it comes to making the most of Father’s Day, Shaver Shop gears up with a strong national communication strategy that includes a 16-page catalogue highlighting the best in new products, gift giving ideas and value for money offers. The catalogue is supported by additional TV activity, as well as ongoing targeted e-commerce initiatives. AR www.applianceretailer.com.au

41

AR WHAT'S HOT

Smeg FAB50 Refrigerators

Celebrating 70 years of design and innovation, Smeg has released two new versions of one of its most iconic appliances. The brand’s family-sized FAB50 retro style refrigerator, originally conceived 21 years ago, has been released in two new colours – Pastel Blue and Red – due to popular demand. Just like the FAB50’s original colours panna, white and black – the new colours are perfect matches for the brand’s retro small appliances that have become worldwide style icons. The FAB50, with a gross capacity of 467 litres, is a two-door frost-free refrigerator/freezer, featuring two chiller compartments, adjustable quick-chill crystal glass shelves and two fruit/vegetable compartments, while the freezer has a manual icemaker and a fast-freeze compartment.

RRP: $3,990

Smeg: 02 8667 4888

Breville Nespresso Creatista Uno

The latest addition to the Creatista range, the Creatista Uno, allows users to simply choose their preferred milk texture and temperature at the touch of a button.

It comes equipped with a menu of three milk-based recipes – cappuccino, flat white and latte. It also includes options for different milk foam textures and temperatures. After selecting the preferred coffee style, users simply need to fill the jug with milk and place it on the temperature sensor. The milk is then automatically heated to the ideal temperature, while the steam wand froths it to the texture required, depending on the coffee selected.

RRP: $549

Nespresso: 1800 623 033

Miele TwoInOne Cooktop

Combining induction cooking technology with an integrated downdraught extractor, this cooktop is ideal for open-plan kitchens. The central extractor on the 80cm wide cooktop is framed by two variable PowerFlex zones that allow pots and frying pans of a variety of diameters to be used. It is also possible for two individual rings to join up automatically when large pots or pans are placed on the surface.

TwinBooster mode, ideal for bringing a large volume of water to the boil in a short time, is complemented by the food-warming and Stop & Go functions. It can be installed in a flush or proud-mount configuration.

RRP: $5,799

Miele: 1300 644 122 42

Appliance Retailer June / July 2018

COMPANY INDEX AR COMPANY

PAGE #

READERSHIP GROUPS

Hisense VIDAA U Smart TV platform

Amazon............................................................................................................... 7 Asko..................................................................................................................... 7 Australian Retailers Association.......................................................................38 Bertazzoni.........................................................................................................28 Betta Home Living......................................................................................12, 13 Braun...........................................................................................................39, 40 Breville..............................................................................................................42 Canon................................................................................................................28 Conair..........................................................................................................39, 40 De’Longhi............................................................... 9, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 26, 27 Dyson................................................................................................................29 Electrolux......................................................................................................9, 29 Eurolinx.......................................................................................................16, 30 Euromonitor................................................................................................20, 38 Fisher & Paykel..................................................................................................16 FitZone........................................................................................................39, 40 Fujitsu General...........................................................................................11, 30 GfK...............................................................................................................20, 38 Glem Gas...........................................................................................................31 Groupe SEB.................................................................................... 21, 24, 26, 31 Hisense......................................................................................................IFC, 10 Hitachi...............................................................................................................32 Jura...................................................................................................................32 Kenwood.............................................................................................. 21, 24, 27 KitchenAid..................................................................................................... OBC Kleenmaid........................................................................................................33 LG Electronics....................................................................................................33 Miele.......................................................................................................8, 34, 42 Mitsubishi Electric ...........................................................................................34 Myer.................................................................................................................... 8 Nespresso...................................................................................................35, 42 Panasonic...........................................................................22, 25, 35, 38, 39, 40 Philips.................................................................................................. 22, 25, 27 QLS....................................................................................................................25 Samsung...........................................................................................................36 Shaver Shop................................................................................................38, 41 Smeg.......................................................................................... 6, 14, 15, 36, 42 Spectrum Brands........................................................................................39, 40 Sunbeam........................................................................................ 21, 25, 26, 27 Uniden........................................................................................... 37, 38, 39, 40 Winning Group.............................................................................................6, 37

DISCLAIMER This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”).

Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials.

The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information.

All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof.

To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication.

Copyright © 2018 - The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd.

www.applianceretailer.com.au

43

THE INGREDIENTS OF GOOD DESIGN A SIX STEP RECIPE Good design is no mere assumption. You can touch it and it speaks to your heart. Little affected by the passage of time, it simply becomes more precious - like a fine wine.

Good design means clean but firm lines that exude honesty and are both strong and delicate. Good design springs from a carefully selected mix of ingredients: fine materials, sophisticated finishes and decoration that is refined and restrained, like the fragrance of a signature dish.

1: START WITH THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF COLOUR

THE RED MEDALLION 4: MIX LOVINGLY

2: WORK GENTLY BUT FIRMLY

TEXTURED SURFACES

BIGGER FRAMES 6: AND VOILA’ YOUR SIGNATURE RECIPE

5: A PINCH OF HI-TECH

PREMIUM MATERIALS

3: ADD A TOUCH OF CHROME

3 OVENS IN 1

EMBOSSED BADGE