get connected: may 2011

HOME LAUNDRY & GARMENT CAREMore capacious, more intelligent, more caring, more versatile, more energy effi cient… Home Laundry is off ering a great deal more to 21st century consumers

IN BUSINESSJohn Reddington on Sales Aids

GEORGE COLE GETS CONNECTEDIs it a TV or a PC? And does 3D have a passive or an active future in the home? George Cole looks at “Smart” TV, and at the 3D “format war” that threatens to slow down the takeup of 3DTV in UK households

FROM THE BENCHAs the demand for technical servicing changes, where are the opportunities of the future?

BACKCHATSamsung’s Nick Portlock gives a 2-minute interview

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E E L E C T R I C A L I N D U S T R Y

PLUS:

Your votes have been counted, and in this issue GC presents the UK’s top electrical products, as

selected by readers of GC Magazine

M A Y 2 0 1 1w w w . g c m a g a z i n e . c o . u k

Radio soundsbetter in colour

www.pure.com0845 148 9002 [email protected]

Bringing a splash of colour to any room this Spring, the new EVOKE Mio collection combines a great-sounding portable digital and FM radio with chic design and five fresh new colour schemes: Teal, Lava, Grape, Cherry and Noir. Features an aux input for iPod/MP3 player, kitchen timer and alarm and takes an optional ChargePAK for portable listening.

Teal Lava Grape Cherry Noir

Get-Connected_EVOKE-Mio_Full-Page_Apr11.indd 1 21/04/2011 16:45:28

CONTENTS

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Get Connected. Greyfriar Cottage, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, Hampshire. GU34 1SBwww.gcmagazine.co.uk

04 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Editorial Comment

06 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / The Word In and around the industry

11 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / In Business John Reddington on Sales Aids

12 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / The Product Gallery

14 / / / / / / / / Home Laundry & Garment CareCapacity, energy effi ciency, convenience and technological sophistication have made this an exciting area for consumers and retailers

22 / / / / / / / / / / / George Cole Gets Connected

23 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / From the Bench Alan Bennett on the changing face of servicing

24 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / BackchatIndustry comment and a 2-minute interview from

Samsung Electronics UK General Manager, Home Appliances Nick Portlock

Editor in Chief: Marlinda Conway Telephone: 01420 88633 [email protected]

Editorial & Publishing Director: Terry HeathTelephone: 01420 88633 [email protected]

Magazine Advertising Sales:Graham Southern Telephone: 07936 196517 [email protected]

Creative Director: Will Dobson [email protected]

Advertisement Production Administration: Will Dobson Telephone: 01342 850 456 [email protected]

Production and Print: Blackmore Press, Shaftesbury, Dorsetwww.blackmore.co.uk

Subscriptions & Circulation: GCCD, 13 Premier AvenueGrays, EssexRM16 2SB.Telephone: 07818 088671Fax: 01375 370436 [email protected]

Annual subscription rate (inc. postage): UK £88; Overseas £108.

Copyright © 2011 Mud Hut Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior permission of the publisher. Get Connected is published by Mud Hut Publishing Ltd., Alresford House, 60 West Street, Farnham, Surrey GU9 7EH.

P12 LOEWE INDIVIDUAL COMPOSE 3D TVwww.loewe-uk.com

PHILIPS AIRFRYERThe best-tasting chips, super quick, without the oil slickThe new Philips airfryer is a revolution in home cooking that fries a variety of tasty, healthy meals – from the best-tasting chips to chicken nuggets, meat and tempura prawns – in next to no time in a low-fat environment. The airfryer’s secret is its patented Rapid Air Technology, which combines fast-circulating hot air with a grill function to create delicious chips with up to 80% less fat.

Philips airfryer also comes top on taste for even the most discerning chip lovers. In a test conducted amongst fried-food fans, two-thirds preferred the crispy texture and taste of airfryer fries over those produced in an appliance from another leading brand.

The airfryer requires just 3 minutes to heat up and prepares a batch of crispy chips in just 12 minutes. It also does away with the odour that traditional frying creates.

Philips airfryer comes complete with a recipe book, and additional recipes can be found on Philips MyKitchen – www.philips.co.uk/kitchen – a website that encourages consumers to cook healthy, nutritional and tasty meals and provides a host of culinary tricks and handy time-saving tips.

Additional product features include:

In-built Timer – preset cooking times of up to 30 mins

Adjustable Temperature Control – cooks food at steady rate up to 200°C

Integrated Air Filter – diffuses cooking smells Food Separator Accessory – lets you “fry”

multiple foods at once Removable, dishwasher- safe parts and

non-stick surfaces 60-day complete satisfaction money-back

guarantee

chips with up to 80% less fat. Philips airfryer also comes top on taste for

even the most discerning chip lovers. In a test conducted amongst fried-food fans, two-thirds preferred the crispy texture and taste of airfryer fries over those produced in an appliance from another leading brand.

Contact 0800 331 6015 or visit www.philips.co.uk/kitchen for further information

The UK’s top Major Appliances,

Consumer Electronics and

Small Appliances Products

as voted by the Get Connected

Trade Readership

PLUS:

EDITORIAL COMMENT

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Nearly half way through another year, and, with nearly three years behind us since the global banking system collapsed, the roof fell in on the world economy and the business community – in the UK and elsewhere – was left to assess

the damage and get things up and running again, it’s diffi cult to remember a time when expressions such as “tough trading conditions,” “challenging environment,” “diffi cult times” and “current economic pressures” were not the over-used clichés they have now become.

Retailers who have survived into the middle of 2011 have a certain right to be proud of the achievement, but that has to be tinged with an anxiety that – to use another one of those clichés - “we’re not out of the woods yet.” But this, we are told, is a time of opportunity. A time to seize the day, to take advantage of the fact that the competition has been thinned out by recession, to move boldly into the areas that will form the foundation of the “new order,” and to reassemble the structures of prosperity using the tools available in the 21st century. Those tools must surely, for electrical retailers and their partners, include the internet, and in particular its power to support, augment and develop bricks-and-mortar outlets. The John Lewis model, for example, is one to be studied.

For small businesses, however, “seizing the day” may require a certain amount of investment, and it still appears that sources of funding – in particular the banks – will be focusing on rebuilding and re-feathering their own nests before there’s anything available for the rest of us.

On the positive side, it’s worth remembering that we are in a particularly golden period of great electrical products, as the last six months’ launches in MDA and CE have demonstrated. TVs, Blu-ray players, fridges, cookers, washing machines will always be needed, they’re better value than they have ever been, and the British public has to buy them from someone.

It’s also heartening that, in these “diffi cult times”, the industry has responded so well to this year’s Get Connected Products of the Year Awards. Votes from Get Connected readers have surpassed last year’s record numbers, and it’s a testament to the high regard in which the GC Product of the Year logo is held that there have been an unprecedented number of requests from winning manufacturers for its use in promotion material and on products in-store.

And for those who were nominated but did not secure enough readers’ votes to win the fi nal accolade, a word of comfort from one manufacturer: “Knowing the process of selection for the nominations, it is probably the most rigorous and careful of any awards scheme in this industry, and I think I’d rather have a product nominated in this competition than to win a fi nal award in any other scheme.”

Thanks for your participation, and congratulations to all the nominees as well as the eventual winners.

register online at www.gcmagazine.co.uk for your FREE copy of Get Connected Magazine

Average net circulation for the 12 issues distributed between Jan-Dec 2008 is 6,228

Marlinda Conway Editor in Chief

Terry HeathEditorial & Publishing

Director

George ColeConsumer Electronics

Consultant

Graham SouthernAdvertising Sales

Lynne HenryCommunications Offi cer,

GfK Marketing Services

James McIntoshConsumer Consultant

Will DobsonCreative Director

Haier’s Stainless Steel Dishwasher

Haier’s New Dishwashing Innovations

(DW12-CFE2SS)

Comes with the following features: AAA rated, LED lights to indicate wash progress, Half wash load (upper rack), Rapid wash (32 mins)

Delay timer, Height adjustable upper baskets

Haier will be launching a completely new 14 place dishwashing range in

stunning mirror glass red, white and black as well as stainless steel. With an energy efficiency of A+, low water consumption and new stylish touch controls, these dishwashers would suit any home.

The Haier TFE3 range comes in both 12 and 9 place settings and in white, silver and black.

Other key features of these dishwashers include: AAA rated, LED display

with countdown timer, delay timer (1-24 hours), variable wash temperatures (40/45/50/55/65/70), 7 programs, single dial selector, half wash load (upper rack), 3 in 1 and height adjustable upper basket

The complete dishwashing range!

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Haier UK Head Office: Tel: 01483 411817 Email: [email protected]

*Source Euromonitor International Limited; retail volume sales in units based on 2010 data

0114 254 2400 0845 052 9030 01244 535 929 www.haier.com

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THE WORD | INDUSTRY NEWS

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“Things are farfrom rosy on the

high street”

W hile consumers basked in the April sunshine uncertainty rained on the retail parade. The

BRC reported retail sales values up 5.2% on a like-for-like basis from April 2010, lifted by the Easter trading period, but said that when the results for March and April were considered together they largely cancel each other out. Sales fell 1.9% in March 2011, according to the organisation’s monthly survey, against a 6.6% rise in the same month last year.

Although April food sales returned to growth and other sectors benefi ted from the warm weather, big-ticket items such as expensive electrical goods were said to be “hard hit” and often promotion-led amid continued consumer uncertainty about job and income prospects.

Non-food non-store (internet, mail-order and phone) sales were 13.7% higher than a year ago, recovering from an exceptionally small 7.5% gain in March, but taking the two months together, the BRC reported that underlying growth was “little changed” from earlier this year.

In a separate survey conducted by the CBI the volume of high street sales rose in April compared with a year ago as retailers had expected, but the pace of growth remained subdued. The organisation found that 45% of retailers saw volumes rise in the year to April, while 24% said they fell. The resulting balance of +21% was in line with expectations, but no growth is expected in May.

“Despite slightly better year-on-year sales growth in April, this survey shows things are far from rosy on the high street,” commented Ian McCaff erty, CBI Chief Economic Adviser. “For the third month in a row, retailers considered sales to be unseasonably poor, stocks are running quite high and orders with suppliers are expected to fall.

“With few signs of demand picking up rapidly in the coming months, conditions on the high street look like remaining tough for retailers.”

The CBI said that nearly all retailing sub-sectors saw a modest improvement in volume growth in the year to April but sales of durable household goods including big-ticket electrical items continued to fall, albeit at a slower pace than last month.

The pressure on electricals was also highlighted in an earlier report by Morgan Stanley, which stated that “the UK electrical retailing industry as a whole has now fallen into losses”. In its analysis, Morgan Stanley said the rapid rise in online penetration and the grocers targeting non-food categories such as electricals meant that the addressable market for specialists is shrinking.

Adding to the high street’s woes, the KPMG/Synovate Retail Think Tank (RTT) said “things are going to get worse before they get better,” as it reported that the fi rst quarter of 2011 marked the reversal of the mini recovery in retail health, which started in Q4 2009. The Retail Health Index (RHI) fell two points to 85, one point further than predicted.

The RTT attributed the worse-than-expected decline largely to the softening of demand brought about by consumers reining in spending in response to unforeseen increases in petrol prices and a drop in disposable incomes as the gap between living costs and wage infl ation grows. Retail margins also suff ered in the quarter as retailers extended winter sales, absorbed the VAT increase and promoted more heavily.

On the RTT’s prediction that retail health will deteriorate a further point to 84 in Q2, Synovate’s Tim Denison said: “This is crunch time. Footfall is down, consumer confi dence is waning, disposable income is declining as high infl ation bites and talk of interest rates

APRIL ON THE HIGH STREET: SUNSHINE AND SHOWERS

going up jangles the nerves further. Retailers will need to be on their mettle to read and respond to shopper idiosyncrasies in the months ahead.”

Further unsettling news during April came from business advisory fi rm Deloitte who reported that fi rst-quarter 2011 retail administrations increased by 30% to 60, compared with 46 in the same period last year. The fi gure represented the highest number of retailers to enter administration in a single quarter in the past two years.

Lee Manning, reorganisation services partner at Deloitte, said “it comes as no surprise that retail has been worst aff ected. The sector is heavily reliant on buoyant consumer spending and the increase in VAT and the Government’s austerity measures are undoubtedly hitting it hard. In particular, smaller retailers are likely to be feeling the pinch more so than ever as they often have little grounds to negotiate fl exible credit terms with suppliers and may fi nd it diffi cult to raise funding.”

Manning added that the trend in retail administrations was very much in line with the general direction of the market. “Overall,” he said, “the fi rst quarter of 2011 saw an increase of 21% on the previous quarter, with a total of 557 companies falling into administration compared with 438 in Q4 2010. These fi gures indicate that we are not out of the woods yet.”

On a brighter note, the Offi ce for National Statistics estimated that economic activity in the fi rst-quarter of the year managed modest growth of 0.5%. This quarter’s ONS fi gures had been awaited with special anxiety, given that the UK economy unexpectedly contracted by 0.5% in the last quarter of 2010, and it was with some relief that two consecutive quarters of contraction had been avoided, allaying (for now) fears of a double-dip recession.

Contact: Overseas Trade Show Agencies Ltd.

Tel. +44 (0)20 7886 3000 · [email protected]

Discover the latest consumer

electronics and home appliance

innovations at the industry‘s

leading global trend show.

Don‘t miss this opportunity

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Berlin, 2–7 Sep 2011 ifa-berlin.com

Get in Touchwith Consumer Electronics Unlimited

GetConnected_UK_IFA2012_105x297_en.indd 1 21.04.2011 09:38:57


Comet sales fall 15%; MD Hugh Harvey stands downComet owner Kesa Electricals reported like-for-like sales in the UK fell 15.2% in the three months to 30 April 2011, an acceleration of the 7.3% sales decline in the previous quarter.

Comet, which is currently implementing a reorganisation plan involving the closure of 14 service centres and the potential loss of 400 jobs, is reported to be accelerating its store refi t programme and expanding its Web off ering. Managing director Hugh Harvey resigned at the beginning of May and was replaced by commercial director Bob Darke, and in January the services director and business support director left the company as part of the restructuring.

Kesa said the UK market is particularly price-sensitive, and there continues to be a strong shift towards online purchasing. Looking ahead, CEO Thierry Falque-Pierrotin, commented: “We know the fi rst quarter [to July 2011] is going to be tough. Turning around a retail company takes time. You can’t do it overnight.”

Dixons sales fall 2% in year to 30 April 2011Dixons Retail issued a trading statement for the full year to 30 April 2011 showing Group total and like-for-like sales down 2% for the full year, with the second half having a steeper sales contraction of 4%.

The Group issued a profi ts warning in March saying that profi t for the year would be towards the lower end of expectations, and the £85 million Group profi t before tax in this trading statement is in line with that earlier guidance.

In the UK & Ireland, like-for-like sales fell 3% for the whole year, with a steeper 7% drop in the second half. Only the Nordics showed positive sales growth, achieving +5% like-for-like over the full year.

Dixons announced in April that it would be exiting the troubled Spanish market and closing all of its PC City outlets in Spain.

Chief executive John Browett said: “With challenging economic headwinds continuing for many of our customers, we remain cautious on the outlook for the year ahead. Having had a strong World Cup performance as well as the exclusivity of the iPad last year, we have tough comparables ahead. However, through our Renewal & Transformation plans, our businesses are well placed to emerge from the current weak consumer environments ahead of our competitors.”

PURE regional road showsPURE is running a series of regional road shows for independent retailers to showcase its current product range and introduce new regional Area Sales Executives. Events are taking place throughout the UK until the end of June.

For further information, email [email protected] or contact your Area Sales Executive; visit www.pure.com or call 0845 1489001.


Welcome to the brand new: www.dad-online.co.uk

Live Stock Levels

New Ordering System

Wider Range of Products

Email us today for your log in details so you can take advantage of the brand new site!Email our web team on [email protected]

New Weekly Offers

Downloadable Special Offer Sheets

Downloadable Shop Floor Specials

TEL: 0844 854 6715 Domestic Appliance Distributors, Henry John House, Northway Lane, Ashchurch, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 8JH

TEL: 0844 854 6715 Domestic Appliance Distributors, Henry John House,

Northway Lane, Ashchurch, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 8JH

WHY GO ANYWHERE ELSE?

GDHA opens up service operation to third partiesGDHA has launched a new service brand under which the company’s UK-based maintenance, repair and customer care operation will be available to third-party sources.

The newly created Home Appliance Care, led by Customer Care Director Paula Hodkinson (pictured), is seen by GDHA as an opportunity for growth and the

company believes it is eff ectively positioned to

plug the gaps that exist for manufacturers who do not have a UK customer care and after sales service in place.

The fact of the matter is “we are good at service,” Hodkinson told GC. “Recognition for the quality and level of service provided led us to realise that we are experts at what we do. We have the knowhow and systems in place to make it easy for people to come on board.”

Third-party service is not new to GDHA. According to Hodkinson, the company has worked it on a small scale for the past 4 to 5 years on electric heating, gas fi res & boilers and white goods. Large investments have been made in its national fl eet of 170 (and, uncommon in this industry, fully employed) regionally-based Gas Safe Certifi ed engineers, and in new call-handling software for its 130-person customer contact centre so service can be taken to the next level.

Hodkinson says she is looking for “reasonable sized” contracts for the new venture – i.e. 10,000 to 12,000 jobs per year – but if a contract for 20,000 to 30,000 jobs came up, she “wouldn’t turn it down.”

She explains that the venture allows businesses to see “tremendous” savings as they will not have to invest in building their customer service infrastructure from scratch. “Instead, these companies can invest in further developing the main aspect of their core business, leaving customer service deliverables in the hands of skilled experts.”

AEG Training Academy opens in LutonAEG has opened a state-of-the-art Training Academy as part of a multimillion investment to reinvigorate the brand. The Luton-based facility will host a range of courses from foundation to professional level, supplemented by a new E-excellence Centre off ering comprehensive online learning packages.

National Training Manager, Raymond Laidlaw, said the Academy will ensure all customers have the opportunity to learn more about the AEG Neue Kollektion ranges launched at the end of February this year.

AEG also plans to launch a new mobile training academy at the end of July. “This will be an industry fi rst where we can quite literally ‘deliver’ training on our retailers doorsteps,” commented Laidlaw.

Reporting that more than a thousand key customers

have already planned in their training for 2011, Laidlaw added: “Successful product training is a partnership between retailer and manufacturer and I look forward to working with many of you on future projects in 2011.”

Philips reduces TV interestsPhilips Electronics is to place its loss-making TV arm into a joint venture with Hong Kong company TPV Technology, which supplies desktop and TV monitors. TPV will hold a 70% stake and Philips 30%, with the option to sell that to TPV after six years.

Philips’ TV arm has been making losses for some years as its once leading position has been eroded by price competition. It is reported that losses for the division since the beginning of 2007 now amount to near a billion Euros, and this is depressing the Group’s overall fi nancial performance.

Net TV losses in the fi rst quarter of 2011 were reported at €87 million and pulled Group profi ts down to €138 million, well below analysts forecasts and some €63 million down on the same period last year.

Frans van Houten, who took over as chief executive on April 1 and is known for his expertise in business restructuring, said: “Finding a solution for our television business was our top priority and we strongly believe that the intended 30% - 70% joint venture with TPV will enable a return to profi tability for the television business, and an increased portfolio focus for Philips in health and wellbeing.”


Welcome to the brand new: www.dad-online.co.uk

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New Weekly Offers



TEL: 0844 854 6715 Domestic Appliance Distributors, Henry John House, Northway Lane, Ashchurch, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 8JH

TEL: 0844 854 6715 Domestic Appliance Distributors, Henry John House,

Northway Lane, Ashchurch, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 8JH

WHY GO ANYWHERE ELSE?

Independent tests find appliances bearing incorrect EU labelsPan-European testing carried out by the European Committee of Domestic Equipment Manufacturers (CECED) and the European Union has revealed that a number of domestic appliances are incorrectly labelled under the EU energy labelling system.

The tests, carried out on refrigerators, freezers and freezer-refrigerator combinations, involved 80 appliances from 48 brands (40 manufacturers) purchased in various countries in the EU. The results showed that approximately 13% of appliances were rated an energy effi ciency class too high and approximately 3% were declared two or more consumption classes better. For all fi ve criteria, an overall error rate of 53% was reported.

Dr. Kurt-Ludwig Gutberlet, Chairman of BSH, a CECED member whose appliances were certifi ed as bearing fully accurate information, said: “Correct labelling, especially in relation to energy effi ciency, is an important orientation aid when deciding to purchase an appliance. Consumers have a right to correct labelling. Furthermore, incorrect information leads to distortion of competition.

“Only when consumers trust the label and accordingly opt for the most energy-effi cient appliances can we as a sector eff ectively contribute to reducing European energy consumption.”

Luigi Meli, general director of CECED, said: “The level of compliance with energy label requirements must improve. These results are disappointing but they do not detract from the industry’s position on this issue. Strong market surveillance is the best way to ensure a level playing fi eld, fair competition for domestic equipment manufacturers operating within the Single Market and a high level of protection for the consumers.”

Whirlpool EMEA president Bracken Darrell added: “Correct energy labelling is essential to give our fi nal customers and our distributors a real choice based on true facts. The fact that our products passed the tests in all fi ve categories refl ects Whirlpool’s attention to sustainability issues and respect toward consumers.”

Glen Dimplex Home Appliances has appointed Vera Langley and Tracy Linsdell to oversee its Range Centre initiative which was launched in 2010. After 12 years with GDHA, Langley moves from her previous role as ASM for kitchen specialists and will cover the north of England. Linsdell, who also held an ASM role for the kitchen specialist sector, will support the south of England.

Path Products has appointed Neil Gordon to the role of Commercial Director responsible for driving business for IXOS products and new brands that he will help develop within major UK retailers.

AEG has launched a consumer press advertising campaign to reinforce the brand message of “superior performance, time after time”. Ads will appear in premium National Press supplements and a range of food, style, kitchen specialist and home interest titles. The new campaign is part of a multi-million pound marketing investment in the brand and includes trade press and online consumer advertising, complemented by promotional activities and a major ‘grassroots’ laundry campaign.

Caple has announced a trade promotion running until 31st August 2011 in which retailers placing an order from its kitchen furniture

brochure, with a minimum spend of £1,500, will be entitled to a free dishwasher. Contact 01179 381 900 or visit www.caple.co.uk for further information.

Indesit has announced a sponsorship deal with Arsenal Football Club, commencing at the beginning of the 2011/2012 season. The company said the move represents an opportunity to consolidate its presence in some of Europe’s most strategic markets, citing the UK as an example of such.

The Electrolux EUU11410 under-counter “A” rated freezer has been named a Which? Online Best Buy, scoring � ve stars on test for reliability, quietness and vibration and amassing an overall score of 83%.

Red Dot, the design awards organisation, has given an Honourable Mention to Amica’s Platinum range of built-in ovens. The I-Cook timer and programmer, based speci� cally on the smartphone’s icon technology, and the Aqualytic self-cleaning system were singled out for special mention.

PJH Group has promoted two of its depot sales managers to Regional Business Development Managers as part of a new sales team structure. David Sykes will manage the north and Adrian Clare the south.


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GDHA creates new independent retailer support initiative for GE Appliances Glen Dimplex Home Appliances is rolling out a new in-store support initiative to selected independent retailers of GE Appliances to help communicate the benefi ts and features of its side-by-side

refrigeration products. The initiative provides extra training,

signage and POS materials to those retailers displaying at least three products. David Garden, Commercial

Director for GE Appliances at GDHA, believes the new scheme will enable GE products to “really stand out from the crowd.” It is expected to be rolled out to approximately 16 retailers around the UK.

Indesit Company recorded sales in the three months to 31 March up 7.2% to €644 million. EBIT improved15.6% to reach €40.5 million and net profi t increased 25.3% to €20 million. Net fi nancial indebtedness fell to €309m, against €383m in the prior year. In Western Europe (WE), shipment trends were negative in all countries except the UK, which saw an increase of 3.6%. Retail prices also declined with the sole exception of the UK, where they rose 2.9%. Overall WE sales for the region increased 1.6%, with “very positive” growth of €5.5 million in Service revenues recorded in the UK, mainly due to a rise in sales of extended warranties.

Samsung Electronics announced revenues up 7% to KRW 36.99 trillion on a consolidated basis for the fi rst quarter ended 31 March 2011. Consolidated net income fell 30% against Q1 2010, to KRW 2.78 trillion, and a consolidated operating profi t of KRW 2.95 trillion was recorded. Operating profi t for Digital Media & Appliances turned around from the previous quarter to register KRW 0.10 trillion on revenue of KRW 13.52 trillion. Shipments of fl at panel TVs fell 31% to 8.8 million units (Q-on-Q) amid weak seasonality, but profi t was driven by increased sales of LED TVs, which now make up 39% of TV sales. In the appliance sector, emerging market growth and brisk sales of premium refrigerators, washing machines and air conditioners in Europe drove up revenue by 13%.

Sharp Electronics reported net sales up 9.7% to ¥3,021.9 billion for the

year ended 31 March 2011 and a net income of ¥19.4 billion – 4.4 times that of the prior year. Operating income increased by 52% to ¥78.8 billion. The company failed however to meet its forecast for the year after sales suffered a steep decline in the wake of the Japan earthquake.

BSkyB posted revenues up 14% in the nine months to 31 March 2011, following a strong third quarter. Sales rose from £4,232 million to £4,833 million while adjusted EBITDA increased 19% to £1,030 million. Adjusted operating profi t rose 24% to £790 million and operating margin expanded 130 basis points to 16.3%.

Amazon announced sales up 38% to $9.86 billion for the fi rst quarter ended March 31 2011, compared with $7.13 billion in the same period last year. Worldwide Electronics and Other General Merchandise grew 59% to $5.59 billion, but total net income decreased 33% to $201 million in the quarter.

LG Electronics recorded fi rst-quarter sales down 4% to KRW 13.16 trillion and a net loss of KRW 16 million compared to a KRW 675 billion profi t on the same quarter last year. Home Entertainment shipments increased but revenue declined 4.8% to KRW 5.28 billion due to a slower season and decreased average selling prices. Mobile Communications sales fell 8.3% to KRW 2.91 billion. Shipments declined 10% to 24.5 million units but profi tability improved due to increased smartphone sales and cuts in overheads. In Home

Appliances, revenues rose 13.4% to

KRW 2.699 billion due to rising sales in North America and emerging markets.

Whirlpool Corporation posted a fi rst-quarter rise in net earnings of $169 million compared with $164 million on the same period in 2010, while sales grew from $4.3 billion to $4.4 billion. Europe, Middle East and Africa reported sales of $743 million, a 0.6% increase on the prior year.

Electrolux reported fi rst-quarter profi ts down by more than half due to rising material costs and pressure on prices. Income fell 53% to SEK 457 million on sales of SEK 23,436 – a drop of 7% on Q1 2010. In comparable currencies, net sales rose 0.9%. Demand in most of the company’s main markets showed good growth, with “stable development” in Europe and a near 10% increase in emerging markets.

Panasonic recorded net income for the year to 31 March 2011 at ¥74.02 billion, compared to a ¥103.47 billion loss in the previous year. Income at the main AV products division increased 32% to ¥114.9 billion, profi t at the domestic appliances division rose 40% to ¥92.3 billion. Operating profi t increased 60% to ¥305.25 billion and revenue rose 17% to ¥8.693 trillion.

Argos owner Home Retail Group’s

full year results to February 2011 showed profi ts down nearly 10% to £265.2 million. Like-for-like revenues at Argos fell 5.6% on declining sales of TVs, gaming and big-ticket home-related goods. Computers and white goods

IN BUSINESS

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In this month’s column, John Reddington looks at things beginning with “P” that, collectively, are your Sales Aids

You’ll also need to use your pen to complete the paperwork, whether this is an order, a fi nance agreement... whatever. In the fmcg business we were always trained to carry two pens in our inside pocket (never the top pocket of a jacket ... you’ll look like Harry Hill!) ... just in case the buyer didn’t have one to hand. And if it has a product brand logo or your shop’s logo on it, so much the better. It’s doing yet another job for you.

Plan Sales SlipThis might be unfamiliar to retail sales people, though manufacturers’ reps will know it as a term used by the fmcg industry to mean “order form.” For retail sales people it can mean the invoice or whatever documents you use to close the sale with the consumer. In short, it should be to hand, it can be used to summarise the sales points and it’s one of the things your Pen is used on.

Still relevantSome of the retail sales people we meet during training question whether these sales “rules,” processes and “Aids” are still relevant in the 21st century. But experience proves over and over again that having some structure and clarity in the sales process pays dividends. I witnessed probably one of the best presentations this last month that I have seen in my 40 years in this industry. The person involved used every one of the above sales aids and did it to perfection. I can’t name him but it was a very professional sales pitch. The man in question is young and certain of a successful career.

I try to bring into these articles an illustrative “real life” story wherever I can, but this month there’s a tinge of sadness. During the 1970s I

was headhunted by Harman International to be UK Sales Manager of their new operation. They had purchased Tannoy as founder Guy Fountain had just passed on, and for me it was an exciting time as we handled brands such as Tannoy, Ortofon (my favourite), TEAC, Kenwood, JBL, Harman Kardon and a couple of others. At my fi rst CES Show in 1976 in Chicago I met Sidney Harman who, with Bernard Kardon, founded HK (as it became known). Sad, then, to see in The Times in April that Sidney Harman had passed away. He was a great enthusiast and motivator as well as a very shrewd businessman ... and still working at the age of 92! The name will always be associated in my mind with a time of great learning and opportunity.

On, then, to “Sales Aids” (not a problem you need to go to the doctor with!) Last month’s competition asked you what letter all the main Sales Aids begin with, and to name as many as you could think of. How many of these did you get:

ProductParticularly in our industry this has to be one of the most important. The art of demonstrating the product and its various operations is vitally important. How often do mystery shoppers report that the salesperson “talked” but didn’t “show”! Remember to learn about the product: what it does; how it diff ers from its competition; its unique selling features... But remember as well not to go over the top with technical jargon. Look at your customer, ask questions, estimate his/her knowledge and establish specifi c needs. And don’t just demonstrate. There is nothing like “hands on” experience to enthuse a customer, so, for example, hand over the remote control and let them get a feel for the product and become involved with the sales process. The product is king ... don’t forget it !

Presentation This Sales Aid takes two forms. For sales people out on the road it’s the Sales Binder/Presenter where all the information is stored on the product range, together with supporting information. For retail sales staff it’s the sales support material provided by the manufacturer and/or your retail outlet, plus – crucially - the way you present yourself, your demonstration and your product.

There are also some sensitive points to keep in mind... personal hygiene for one. Lots of talking can encourage bad breath, so always be aware and have mints handy. Personal freshness is a key factor, and

Sales AidsJOHN REDDINGTON

if you smoke, be aware that the smell of tobacco can cling to your clothes. To a non-smoker this can be quite off -putting. I remember an incident where Nick Alsbury and I visited a garage to purchase a new vehicle, and the young sales person lost the sale before he even started as both his breath and clothes were heavily tainted with tobacco.

Point Of SaleThis covers brochures, posters and other types of display material designed to be seen and consulted by your customers. It’s very important both for retailers and manufacturers. Remember, approximately 85% of information that reaches the brain arrives via the eyes, so use the “props” that are provided. They make the selling process that much easier.

And do consider the old adage: “we have two ears and one mouth” and in the selling business we should use them in those proportions - 66% listening, 33% talking.

Manufacturer reviews are an essential part of the POS argument. They carry an unqualifi ed endorsement of how an independent reviewer found the product’s performance. Reprints placed in stack cards act as silent salesmen. Use them. They work !

PenHow simple is this ... the pen! Used for pointing (especially useful if you bite your nails!), the pen can act as an extension to the fi nger for pointing out certain features of the product, or to pinpoint passages in a review, article or brochure. It’s easier to follow and more precise than a fi nger.

COMPETITION WINNER

Our fi rst competition in the March issue, sponsored by Vogels and asking for an explanation of the AICDA acronym, produced a good crop of answers but also revealed that not as many sales people as one would think are familiar with it. In fact, we had a crop of answers from people who had clearly Googled it and taken the fi rst answer, which happens to be “Activation-Induced Cytidine Deaminase.” It’s an enzyme, apparently, but the moral here is: if you get an answer like that to a question about sales procedures, enquire further before writing it down.

Of those who did get it right - and remembered to do the “Complete the sentence” tie-breaker, the winner is:

Brian Dixon, Eric Alcock Ltd, 14 Hightown, Crewe, Cheshire Answer to competition tie breaker is: Attention, Interest, Conviction, Desire, Action. And the winning tie-breaker: “I am a good salesman because I always sell myself not just the product. And I always use the acronym A I C D A, which has always been very successful for me.”

Well done also to our two runners-up:

Joan Guyll, Battle Electricals & Computer, 8 Market Square, Battle “I am a good salesperson because I always aim to obtain a win-win situation: i.e. the customer usually ends up buying more than she/he intended and goes out the door happy with her/his purchases.”

Anthony Mitchell, 24 London Road, Shipston on Stour, Warks“I am a good salesperson because I am happy, humorous, hopeful and honest.”

JOHN LLOYD OF BIG RED SALES PRESENTS BRIAN

DIXON RIGHT WITH HIS £100 VOGELSSPONSORED

SHOPPING VOUCHER.

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Loewe Individual Compose 3D TVLoewe has introduced a range of 3D LCD TVs with LED backlighting and 400Hz

picture quality. The new Individual Compose models will be available in 40, 46 and 55-inch

screen sizes in High Gloss White, Aluminium Black and Aluminium Silver fi nishes.

� 500GB DR+ hard disk

� Loewe MediaPortal / MediaNet / MediaText

� Conversion of 2D content to full 3D

� Surround sound options up to 7.1

01294 315 0000 www.loewe-uk.com

Meridian Media Core 600 digital media system The Media Core 600 Sooloos digital media system from Meridian Audio features the most powerful Sooloos system core to date. It incorporates a pair of 2TB hard disk drives and provides enough primary storage for around 5000 CD albums, while automatically maintaining a mirror copy of music collections.

� Internet radio and streamed music services

� Connects to a range of control options

� Incorporates six high-performance audio end-points

� Suggested retail price £6,000

01480 445678www.meridian-audio.com

AEG MaxiKlasse™ 493321-MN freestanding cookerThis AEG AA-rated freestanding cooker features a MaxiSense™ induction hob with fl exible zones, providing maximum cooking space and a choice of positions for diff erent sized pans. The 74-litre main oven has 8 functions and a ‘Stop and Go’ feature which gives instant control. ESP £1,199.

� Fully programmable timer

� Automatic heat up (Automax)

� CataLuxe™ liners

� Triple-glazed Isofront doors

� 5-year guarantee

08445 611611www.aeg.co.uk

Bosch Exxcel curved glass canopy hoodThe new collection of designer chimney hoods from Bosch is manufactured in Germany and available across the brand’s three ranges: Avantixx, Classixx and Exxcel. The Exxcel curved glass canopy hood, model number DWA09E750B, features:

� Stainless steel and glass fi nish

� 690m3/h extraction rate / 42 dBA noise level

� Halogen lights

� 90cm and 60cm versions available

0844 892 8979www.bosch-home.co.uk

Boston Acoustics TVEE Model 25 soundbar systemBoston Acoustics has introduced this £299.90 virtual surround sound TV and music audio system which comprises a slim soundbar and wireless subwoofer with out-of-the-box one-wire hookup. Reportedly capable of delivering powerful, room-fi lling sound, the TVee Model 25 is designed to be simple, intuitive and totally fl exible, incorporating Boston’s “Play Smart®” product approach. A variety of features designed to enhance the TV and music experience include:

� Dolby Digital 5.1 decoding / Digitally Optimized Virtual Surround processing

� Dedicated Music Mode

� Front panel input button

� System power: 150 watts RMS

02890 279830 www.bostona.eu

Internet radio and streamed music services

THE PRODUCT GALLERY

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Indesit Prime 2011 washing machinesThe 2011 range of A-rated Prime washing machines from Indesit (PWE91672, PWE91472 and PWE91272) have a 9kg capacity with spin speeds up to 1600rpm, digital displays and 24-hour delay timers. All off er a choice of programmes – from a super-quick 15 minute express wash to outdoor wear and sports cycles – and sensor technology optimizes water and energy consumption for the most effi cient wash. Model PWE91672 features:

� 16 programmes / Variable temperature and spin

� Easy iron, extra rinse and cool wash options

� Water consumption 69 litres / Energy consumption 1.36 kWh

� EST recommended

08000 921 922 www.indesit.co.uk

De Dietrich DTiM1000C 90cm ‘Piano’ induction hobThe new ‘Piano’ hob from De Dietrich is claimed to be the world’s most advanced zoneless induction hob, featuring total zoneless technology and a range of ‘intelligent’ control options. It has a full colour 250,000 pixel TFT touchscreen, 15 power levels plus boost function, auto pan detection and a host of additional safety features.

� EXPERT cooking option uses entire 81cm x 40cm cooking area and caters for up to 5 pans

� PIANO cooking option converts hob into three separate cooking zones

� SOLO cooking option uses a single temperature across the entire zone – ideal for warming food at lower heat settings

01256 308 067 www.dedietrich.co.uk

Haier MyZone fridge freezerHaier’s A+ rated MyZone fridge freezer is now available in the UK market. The product has an independent middle drawer which can be used either as a fridge or freezer compartment, with a range of temperatures from +5°C to -18°C. It is available in a stylish mirrored glass fi nish, in red (AFD626TGR), black (AFD626TGB), white (AFD626TGW) & Inox Silver (AFD626TF).

� Total no-frost

� LCD display with touch control

� Long-life LED tower lighting

� Net capacity: Fridge section 158L, MyZone section 37L, Freezer section 58L

01483 411810 www.haier.co.uk

Maytag freestanding MDW 710 AGW dishwasherMaytag’s new freestanding MDW 710 AGW dishwasher with 13 place settings features the brand’s patented IntelliSense® technology, which automatically selects the most economical and eff ective programme according to the level of soiling, adjusting the water, temperature and time to deliver an A+ energy rating and optimal performance.

� Average water consumption 11 litres

� Steam programme

� Jet Pro cleaning system with 24 rotating jets

� Removable, height adjustable ProComfort third level wash rack

0844 499 010 www.maytag.co.uk

Maytag freestanding MDW 710 AGW dishwasherMaytag’s new freestanding MDW 710 AGW dishwasher with 13 place settings features the brand’s patented IntelliSense® technology, which automatically selects the most economical and eff ective programme according to the level of soiling, adjusting the water, temperature and time to deliver an A+ energy rating and optimal performance.

�

�

�

�

0844 499 010

drawer which can be used either as a fridge

MyZone section 37L, Freezer section 58L

WHIRLPOOL’S “GREEN GENERATION” TEAMS ENERGY SAVING WITH PERFORMANCE

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1HOME LAUNDRY & GARMENT CARE

There is no doubt that 21st century home laundry and garment care appliances have transformed the old concept of “washday” in UK homes - even where such an old-fashioned schedule of domestic tasks still exists in a society now used to a more convenient, on-demand, fl exible, chore-minimising lifestyle. Technology has delivered home laundry processes that are faster, more hygienic, more caring of fabrics, more eco-friendly and more intelligent, minimising the need for human eff ort

From dirty laundry to crisp, fresh garments and linen is now a matter of loading the machine, pressing the

button and letting the machine get on with it, and the appliances are so outstandingly better in terms of performance, intelligent programming refi nements and energy effi ciency that retailers can have a problem just listing and explaining the massive advances in features and benefi ts that make a modern home laundry appliance such excellent value for money.

And even though that most disliked of household chores – ironing – has not entirely escaped the need for human application, modern washing and drying programmes have decreased (no pun intended) the ironing requirement, and today’s steam irons and steam generators reduce the time and eff ort spent at the ironing board.

Versatility, adaptability, capacityWith bigger load capacities being one of the big stories of home laundry development over the past few years - 8, 9, 10 and even 11kg machines are now available within standard external dimensions - it is tempting to assume that consumer demand is for bigger, less frequent washes, and that manufacturers have responded simply by focusing on

making the “super washday” possible. But this is very far from the whole truth. The ability to wash – and dry – a lot of clothes in one go is important, but it is one of a number of varied requirements of 21st century life, and manufacturers, while off ering greater capacity, are also delivering – often in the same machine – the convenience of quicker, smaller, more energy effi cient, more eco-friendly washes, so that consumers feel able to wash a single shirt or a couple of special-programme delicate items as the need of the moment dictates, without having to feel guilty about the eff ect on the environment or the electricity bill.

So most manufacturers agree that 21st century home laundry appliances are about both capacity – the ability to handle bigger loads effi ciently – and versatility – the ability to handle frequent, small, sometimes specialist, spur-of-the-moment washing needs quickly and economically. As product marketing manager premium at Maytag Caroline Guillermard says: “The latest washers, with their larger capacities, mean you can do bigger loads less often and very economically. However, amazing electronic control also means they are very

BAUMATIC: FUZZY LOGIC GROWING IN POPULARITY

OUTSTANDING CLEANING PERFORMANCE

KEEPS FOOD FRESH UP TO 4x LONGER

ENERGY ANDDETERGENT SAVINGS

Sensor technology delivering outstanding performance

while saving resources

PowerClean Max™

rotating jet sprays andAquaSteam™ technology

Humidity and temperature sensor control

A-30%* energy rating and detergent dosing

recommendation www.whirlpool.co.uk

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*30% Saving compared to A energy rated washing machine

THE GREEN GENERATION™ RANGEECO-DESIGNED FOR EXCEPTIONAL RESOURCE SAVINGS

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PowerClean Max™





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adept at washing the smallest, most delicate load without costing the earth. They are very fl exible, incredibly smart and adaptable, saving resources and time during every wash.” And for that urgent must-have-now item, “one can set the garment on a speed wash (15 minutes) or simply refresh it in under 20 minutes before popping it on to wear once more.”

Neff sales director Mike Jarrett reinforces the versatility factor: “Washing has become ‘as and when’ with quick programmes like Rapid 15 available. Also the wash frequency has increased because of the speed factor, but in turn it means smaller volumes are washed more frequently (despite the interest in large capacity machines). This underlines the need for machines that are energy and water effi cient as savings are critical.” And Beko head of buying and product Les Wicks contends that “with consumer lifestyles becoming

increasingly hectic, people are looking for greater fl exibility from their laundry appliances as well as user-friendly time saving features so they can fi t in the laundry at a time that’s convenient.” He cites Beko’s Fastwash programmes that can wash a 2kg load in 14 minutes and a full 8kg load in 28 minutes.

Lifestyle complementTalking to manufacturers, the acknowledgement of today’s “hectic lifestyles” comes up time and again, focusing the need for home laundry appliances to take the complications out of washing and provide safe, simple, anytime solutions to a range of lifestyle demands. Hotpoint brand manager Iain Starkey believes “we are starting to see the development of laundry appliances that truly recognise how consumers live their lives and handle their pressures, priorities and lifestyles.” For Hotpoint this has meant the development of the new Aqualtis range (due in June) that feature 11kg capacity, advanced coloureds, delicates and special fabrics programming and, of growing importance, anti-allergy cycles. “Our customers,” says Starkey, “have told us that they want washing machines that handle coloureds without fading, look after precious fabrics and, for people with sensitive skin and other allergies, completely wash away any potential irritants.”

Sophistication plus capacity is also a priority at Indesit, where advertising and communications manager Libby Morley acknowledges: “People who have really active lifestyles need laundry products that do a fantastic job at any time, so they probably don’t have regular, scheduled wash days – it’s more likely to be a quick Sunday afternoon wash after football down the park, or an evening wash when you get in from the gym.” The new A-rated Prime series has 9kg capacity, plus “a choice of easy-to-use programmes from a super-quick 15 minute express wash

to outdoor wear and sports programmes.” Baumatic marketing manager Rita Balestrazzi thinks that, “with most people now leading particularly hectic lifestyles and all members of the family working, the idea of sticking to just one fi xed day for doing the laundry has all but disappeared. We’re now more

inclined to switch on the washing machine to do a load after dinner during the week, which is why time-saving features on these appliances have become so important. ” This is where the energy-saving, intelligent sensing technologies now built into most appliances come into their own. “Fuzzy logic technologies are growing in popularity,” says Balestrazzi, “as this automatically adjusts water intake, water temperature, wash time, rinse performance and spin speed depending on the load, ensuring no more energy, detergent or water is used per wash than is absolutely necessary.”

The NEW AEG ProTex PLUS washing machine L98699FL ensures precise and gentle washing for exceptional care of clothes Our research shows that AEG ProTex PLUS protects clothes 30% better than previous models. To deliver this, the ProTex system combines several advances in washing technology like the Optisense wash system & Advanced washing

technology to ensure there’s no over-washing. It also uses just the

right amount of water, detergent and time for outstanding clothes care that will keep them looking like new for longer.

This super-ef� cient washing machine has an outstanding A+++-20% Energy rating.

www.aeg.co.ukTrade Sales Telephone number: 08445 610610

“…very � exible, incredibly smart and adaptable, saving resources and time during every wash”

CAPTION

GORENJE “TECHNOLOGY FOR USER FLEXIOBILITY”

HOTPOINT’S NEW AQUALTIS NOW WITH 11KG MODELS

HOME LAUNDRY & GARMENT CARE

Warming to warranty As the industry’s leading warranty specialist we know that the key ingredients for success

are in the planning and preparation. With dedicated UK contact centres, an unrivalled repair

network and impressive customer service ratings, there has never been a better time to

turn up the heat on warranty sales with Domestic & General.

www.domesticandgeneral.com

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LAUNDRY HYGIENE SOLUTION FROM STATESMAN

Statesman have developed a new Self-clean system program specifi cally designed to breakdown and cleanse out the excess soap and detergent deposits often experienced, using uniquely generated water and steam, keeping the machine running effi ciently, hygienically and odour free.

This program features on the stylish new ZXL series washing machines • with 6kg and 7kg capacity models available

Statesman products all carry a FREE 2 Years Parts & Labour guarantee • and are exclusive to Independents

The product range is constantly evolving, the Self-clean system is just • one of a host of benefi ts that Statesman off ers you.

Call now for further information or a copy of our new

‘2011 Collection’ brochure on 0844 848 5860or visit us at www.statesmanapplicances.co.uk

HalfPageAdvert.indd 1 9/5/11 15:47:38

Performance with convenience and energy savingWhirlpool, with its well-established and constantly developing “6th Sense” control system which automatically senses, controls and adapts various wash parameters to save time, energy and water, is focusing, through “intelligent” and user-intuitive programming options, on delivering convenience and performance, plus environmental benefi ts that do not force consumers into a trade-off between their pocket and the future of the planet. “The consumer is looking for authentic quality living,” says product marketing manager, freestanding, Dean McKelvie, and cites the company’s survey which found “nine out of ten consumers

agreed that the cost of buying versus the cost to the planet is a bigger factor when deciding to buy. The consumer felt guilty about the decision and would rather there was no trade-off [between price and environmental responsibility]. Whirlpool’s Green Generation ranges, introduced in 2010, include 6, 7 and 8kg washing machine models with 6th Sense control, LED digital displays and detergent dosing recommendation. The aim is a range of “aff ordably sustainable” appliances that off er consumers an intuitive way to rapidly select appropriate programmes according to the three criteria the majority of people use to sort their washing: colour, fabric type and special items. Whirlpool’s “lifestyle programmes” feature a simple selection of “black” for dark colours, “white” for whites and “light” for a mixed light coloured load, plus additional programmes for special fabric types.

For Electrolux/AEG, the Optisense Wash System is the intelligence that senses the wash load and adjusts for optimum performance and optimum water, time and energy usage. The AEG Neue Kollektion includes A-50% energy rated models, OptiSense, and the new ProTex drum design to combine best performance with maximum fabric care. “Top end consumers,” says Chandrasekar Kunche, local product manager, fabric care, Electrolux Major Appliances, “are looking for products which are precise and gentle so that clothes are not over- or under-washed, and which are also energy effi cient.”

Energy saving, garment care and precise programming are top priorities at Siemens, a brand with a long history of quality products and environmental responsibility. “Generally people put a lot of thought into buying their clothes,” says brand manager Jane Massey. “They consider the fabric, the cut, the colour and so on. And often individual items can be expensive. Customers should be looking for a laundry appliance that protects their garments and helps them manage the many diff erent textiles, colours and designs they have in their wardrobes. Siemens’ washing machines include a range of programmes tailored perfectly to varying wash loads.” Specialist wool and silk programmes are part of Siemens’ fabric care options. And, says Massey, “because all Siemens’ domestic appliances are designed with the minimum impact to the environment in mind we’re already addressing the ‘green’ issue.”

Siemens’ new i-DOS detergent control system is a case in point. It automatically

assesses water hardness, degree of soiling, load volume, drum size and type of textile and adjusts detergent dosing accordingly from a liquid detergent chamber within the machine that holds enough for 20 loads of laundry.

New age of laundryIt’s clear that 21st century lifestyles have transformed how consumers regard the central domestic chore of home laundry. And it is equally clear that manufacturers have risen to the challenge by transforming their

product off erings to suit a fresh set of consumer requirements. The “Social and technological changes” that Ruth Ferguson, marketing manager at Gorenje,

refers to, have produced a demand for “a washing machine that is able to perform well, on demand, quickly and effi ciently. Fortunately,” she adds, “contemporary laundry appliances feature technology ideal for allowing consumer fl exibility. Quick washes, time start delay options and large capacity drums are key examples, allowing the consumer to wash more, less often, quickly and at a time that suits them. Intelligent technology also monitors loads, ensuring the correct amount of water is used, and choosing the right programme for the load.” It appears that simplicity, with much of the responsibility for programme selection switching from the consumer to the appliance, has been accomplished with built-in intelligence. The process for the user may be simpler, but the technology that makes it so is the result of a powerful body of research and development. Like all modern technology, the complicated is dedicated to achieving simplicity. Gorenje

NEW Zanussi top of the range 8kg washing machine with JetSystem+ The New Zanussi ZWJ14591W features Jetsystem+ technology which saves time, energy, water and detergent by automatically adjusting water consumption, energy and cycle time to suit the laundry load size. So whether you wash 1 kg or 8kg you can be sure it will only use what it needs for great results. Its big 8kg capacity means you can whizz through the laundry and wash big items like king size duvets and bed linen too. It is Energy Ef� cient with an A+++ energy rating.

www.zanussi.co.ukTrade Sales : 08445 610610

“Retailers should focus on the bene� ts which relate to the everyday situations of consumers”

SIEMENS WITH IDOS AUTOMATIC DOSING SYSTEM


LAUNDRY HYGIENE SOLUTION FROM STATESMAN

Statesman have developed a new Self-clean system program specifi cally designed to breakdown and cleanse out the excess soap and detergent deposits often experienced, using uniquely generated water and steam, keeping the machine running effi ciently, hygienically and odour free.

This program features on the stylish new ZXL series washing machines • with 6kg and 7kg capacity models available

Statesman products all carry a FREE 2 Years Parts & Labour guarantee • and are exclusive to Independents

The product range is constantly evolving, the Self-clean system is just • one of a host of benefi ts that Statesman off ers you.

Call now for further information or a copy of our new

‘2011 Collection’ brochure on 0844 848 5860or visit us at www.statesmanapplicances.co.uk

HalfPageAdvert.indd 1 9/5/11 15:47:38

has echoed this idea with its own Simplicity range, prioritising ease of use and featuring 8kg capacity in both washer and dryer. “Retailers,” says Ferguson, “should focus on the benefi ts which relate to the everyday situations of consumers. For instance, by relating capacity to the average wash load size. Also point out energy savings to payback period: the energy savings from an A rated tumble dryer versus a C rated appliance will actually pay for the new A rated tumble dryer over a ten year period.”

For Ken Humphrey, brand manager at Bosch, explaining the benefi ts of appliances such as the Exxcel 7 VarioPerfect washing machine with ActiveWater management, A+++ energy rating and a range of convenient, quick freshen and quick wash programmes (the super quick programme “washes ten men’s shirts in just 15 minutes”), is a matter of “understanding the customer’s needs. During a credit crunch/recession consumers tend to invest in products that will last rather than ‘bargains’ that need replacing within months.”

Manufacturers’ research and innovation have been the driving forces behind the transformation of washday. As Haier points out, products in a world where washday is an outdated concept have to be “designed to be

fl exible so that people can plan their laundry around their lives rather than their lives around laundry.” The Haier HW80-1401 8kg washing machine is cited as a product “perfectly adapted to modern requirements.” With A++ energy rating, delay timer, a range of programmes that can cope with silk, wool and other delicate fabrics, and a 40-minute quick wash, this is the forerunner of a premium 8kg washing machine with IC motor, anti-bacteria feature, auto weigh function and A+++ energy rating, due for UK launch in the second half of 2011.

And Samsung has produced a washing innovation in the Eco Bubble, “the world’s

fi rst washing machine to generate special bubbles, which help provide the same wash performance using cold water as standard washing machines off er at 40 degrees.”

Cool is coolThe low-temperature wash has become established as a considerable contribution to energy saving, and collaboration between washing machine and detergent manufacturers has produced a further innovation – the cold wash. The energy benefi ts of low temperature washes are clear, but manufacturers have had to address

NEFF: THE TECHNOLOGY TO HANDLE ‘AS AND WHEN’ WASHING NEEDS


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concerns over hygiene and the eff ective elimination of allergens and bacteria, some of which can survive the lower temperatures of modern wash cycles. Most manufacturers whose machines have low temperature or cold wash cycles now off er a higher-temperature self cleaning cycle to ensure hygiene. As Simon Freear, country manager for Amica UK, says: “With the increasing demand for washing at lower temperatures, heavily encouraged by detergent manufacturers, washing machines with self-clean cycles will become much more commonplace. Everyday low temperature washing can be eff ective and is of course more environmentally friendly, but it can cause a build-up of bacteria, mould, dirt and odours in the drum and tank, which can shorten the life of any machine. Periodic maintenance with high temperature sterilisation via a self-clean cycle limits this build-up for continued, effi cient washing.”

Hot opportunitiesWasher/dryers and tumble dryers are – especially in a country of uncertain climate – an important contribution to the convenience, speed and fl exibility demanded by today’s consumers, but have in the past suff ered from the perception that they are very heavy on energy, form a “bottleneck” in the laundry process because they can’t handle as big a load as the washing machine, and in some cases are not kind to fabrics. These things may have been true in the past, but manufacturers have invested an enormous amount of time and eff ort into bringing tumble drying into the energy effi cient, fabric-nurturing 21st century.

Consumers may not be fully aware of the strides that have been made, and retailers now have the opportunity to present the tumble drying process as a real, eco-responsible and energy-effi cient solution to the drying problem.

Larger capacities up to 9kg take care of the “bottleneck” problem, and sophisticated heat pump technology, heat exchangers and super-effi cient humidity sensor programmes keep energy and water consumption to a minimum while ensuring fabrics do not suff er from overheating.

Drum design has also advanced, with several manufacturers producing – as they have for washing machines – internal drum patterns that are gentle on fabrics. Highly effi cient condenser dryers also obviate the need for venting, and bigger capacities together with humidity sensing can also minimise creasing and reduce the need for ironing.

It is defi nitely time for UK consumers to look at their drying options and consider anew the benefi ts of tumble drying, either as a

standalone option where space allows, or as part of a washer/dryer appliance.

Smooth fi nishIroning is still one of the UK’s most disliked chores, but steam irons and steam generators, a key part of the whole laundry and garment care spectrum, are also developing rapidly to make ironing quicker, easier and more effi cient. As Alex Meir, marketing manager at Tefal brand owner Groupe SEB says: “Products that take the hassle out of ironing are key.” He notes that diff erent kinds of consumer usage patterns are better catered for: “You now have a mix of families doing batch washing and ironing and individuals ironing one shirt a day for work. Tefal has a product suited for every need and price point. A high power stream generator for large ironing loads with lots of power and neat features to make the ironing quick and easy, or a good quality, fully featured steam iron to make light work of that daily shirt.”

Bosch says “there has been a greater interest and increase in the sale of steam generators over the last 2-3 years. Overall the irons market has remained fl at year-on-year, while value and average price have increased slightly.” Bosch concedes that “buying an iron will never be a treat for most consumers,” and it is often likely to be a distress purchase. However, there is always room for sell-up in terms of design and performance, and “the key is for retailers to understand their customers’ needs. If, for example, the customer only has fi ve shirts a week to iron for work but usually irons a shirt before going to work in the morning, a Bosch Premier Power iron with super-quick heat up time may be perfect. On the other hand, if you are ironing for a family of six, we’d recommend a steam generator, as the steam output and the continuous fi ll system means you don’t have to wait for ages for it to heat up or keep refi lling the water, so you get through that ironing much quicker.”

FULLY AUTOMATIC WASHING MACHINE MARKET12 MONTHS TO MARCH 2011

Volume up 8% to 1.5 million units

Freestanding machines: 97% of market

Average price down 1% year-on-year to £309

6kg most popular with 40% of market by volume

7kg up 6% to 24% of market by volume

8kg up 2.6% to 13.3% of market by volume

1200rpm spin speed 40% of market by volume

1400rpm spin speed 34% of market by volume

67% of fully automatic machines now have Start Delay (up 8% year-on-year)

TEFAL “TAKING THE HASSLE OUT OF IRONING”


The Platinum collection combines innovative technology and stunning aesthetics

with environmental credentials. One day all kitchens will perform this well.

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A TV NOT A PCSamsung is one of several companies offering internet

access via smart televisions and selected Blu-ray players.

Its � rst internet TV service, Internet@TV, offered users a

number of apps that allowed internet content and services (such as

BBC iPlayer, YouTube) to be displayed on a TV screen. Internet@TV

has since been rebranded Smart TV. The latest Samsung Smart TVs

offer a new interface, called Smart Hub, that includes a neat Search

All facility that looks for content on your PC, the internet and other

devices. Samsung is also planning to increase the number of Smart

TV apps from around 100 today to more than 400 by the end of the

year. However, consumers who purchased last year’s Internet@TV

range will not be able to use the Smart Hub or Search All feature. I

asked Michael Zöller, Samsung’s European marketing director, TV/

AV, whether Internet@TV owners could upgrade their sets to the

latest Smart TV offerings? “A TV is not a PC,” he said, “we want to

keep the living room TV as a living room TV. If you want to surf the

internet, please use your laptop. There is no upgrade facility.”

Zöller says owners of last year’s Internet@TV sets can still access

most of the new apps, and if they want to upgrade to Smart Hub,

they can purchase one of Samsung’s latest Blu-ray players, which

have the feature built-in. It’s true that some DAB players can be

upgraded via software updates, but doing this with a TV operating

system is another story, and Samsung is right to take this approach.

The good news about consumer electronics products becoming

more like computers is that many new features are being added to

each new generation of product. The bad news is that there’s a good

chance our existing equipment might not be able to use all of them.

ACTIVELY SUPPORTING 3DZöller also revealed that Samsung is strongly committed to active

3D technology, with no plans to offer passive 3D systems. He gives

reasons for sticking to this principle: “If you are using a passive

system, the viewing angle is restricted, you get black bars on the

screen, which sacri� ces picture quality. Another problem is that

passive systems add a � lter and so you need a bright backlight,

even in 2D mode. This increases power consumption. And I haven’t

even started talking about how only active systems offer Full HD

technology.” Zöller has a point, but it’s a shame that a war has broken

out amongst companies supporting either active or passive 3D

technology. The last thing the � edgling 3D market needs right now is

a reason for consumers to hold off from buying 3DTVs.

�George Cole pinpoints hotspots in the world of consumer electronics.E-mail: [email protected]

George Cole Cole

George ColeGeorge ColeGeorge

FULLY CHARGEDThe other week, I travelled abroad and dutifully packed my laptop, camera

and phone. Alas, when I reached my

destination I discovered that, while I had

packed the power chargers for the laptop

and phone, I’d forgotten to include the

camera battery charger. Fortunately, I had

recently recharged the camera battery,

but I still had to be careful about how

often I used my camera. It got me thinking

about the times when many digital

cameras could also use alkaline batteries

as a backup option. It would be good if

cameras offered a USB charging system,

so you could charge them on a laptop (and

leave one charger behind) or if consumer

electronics companies followed the mobile

phone manufacturers’ lead.

It’s estimated that there are more than

500 million mobile phones in the EU, and

they use 30 different types of chargers.

But the EU Commission has encouraged

fourteen of the main mobile manufacturers

(including Apple, Nokia, Samsung and LG)

to sign a memorandum of understanding

to develop a universal phone charger,

based on the Mini-USB standard. The

plan was to have the universal charger

on the market by “early 2011,” but at the

time of writing, it has yet to appear. But

a universal charger will be well worth

waiting for. Instead of having to buy a

new handset and charger every time you

purchase a new phone, you’ll be able to

use your existing charger. And if you forget

your phone charger whilst abroad, there’s

a good chance that you’ll be able to use

someone else’s. Now that’s what I call a

good idea in action.

GEORGE COLE GETS CONNECTED

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Technical service is changing fast, says Alan Bennett

Servicing in 2011

E-mail: [email protected]

I n recent years the role of most technicians has moved from component-level repair of TV and audio equipment

to wider-ranging and less complex operations. The reasons for this are many, most of them based on economic factors...

Diminishing repairsIn real terms the cost of all home electronic

gear has plummeted, while the cost of

skilled and tightly-focused labour has

steadily gone up, so that repair has become

less viable. Setmakers and importers,

cutting their costs to the bone – sometimes

to stay in business at all – have reduced

their after-sales service almost to vanishing

point in some cases, especially in the realms

of technical advice and spares availability.

This makes many repairs dif� cult and

some impossible, though the emergence of

economy PCB suppliers like ShopJimmy has

mitigated the spares supply problem.

The skills required for in-depth repair are

being lost, while the necessary investment

in jigs, tools and test equipment is high. In

addition to these, people are becoming used

to scrapping and replacing hi-tech equipment

ever earlier, and everybody’s conscience

about land� ll and Earth resources is being

appeased by the now-compulsory recycling

process, whose viability and economics,

when transport and other factors are taken

into account, are dif� cult (for me anyway) to

understand. A gloomy picture indeed.

MitigationTo balance the loss of work for established

technicians there are two factors. One is

that natural wastage reduces their numbers:

many TV and audio engineers of the old

school are near, at or past retirement age.

The other is that most people seem to be

unable to do anything the slightest bit

technical for themselves, but have become

conditioned to paying big money for one-

to-one attention, especially from skilled

people. Last week my neighbour cheerfully

paid £120 for the few minutes it took a

teenager to spray a woodworm-infested

bedroom cupboard. We very seldom now

have complaints about our callout charge,

currently £50, even in this low-cost, low-

wages area. For a state pensioner this is

half the weekly income, regrettable but

necessary in today’s economic ambience

for businesses like ours.

The diversi� cation of technicians

takes many forms. With ladders strapped

to the top of the delivery van, some

good test equipment, and in some cases

newly-acquired skills, e.g. from CAI

training courses, they (or at least the

younger amongst them!) can go aloft to do

installation, repair and servicing of aerials

and satellite dishes, an often-satisfying

business which can be very rewarding

� nancially, especially for ‘discrete’ or

‘bespoke’ installations. With terrestrial aerial

work, the pattern at present seems to be

a steadily increasing demand with a huge

crescendo at (and especially just after) the

time of digital switchover, followed by a ramp-

down of work to a lower but steady level.

Wires and cablesAnother opening for technical talent is the

wiring-up of customers’ homes with various

link systems: for TV distribution networking

of signals coming from rooftop aerials and

satellite dishes; and for broadband cable

hook-ups to smart TV sets and computers,

also LAN cable systems or wireless set-

ups for the latter. All the better when the

cable, modem, ampli� ers etc. are supplied

by you. A similar service is the installation

of cinema systems, for which training is

offered by Cedia UK. For complete system

building it’s usually necessary to team up

with a versatile local building/decorating

� rm. In the same vein, though less complex,

is the hook-up and installation of TV and

home-entertainment boxes, which can

form quite a little network of their own. If

the price is right we are quite happy to do

this with equipment we have not ourselves

supplied, and programme the gear for best

possible performance and interoperation. I

know several freelance hooker-uppers who

specialise in this kind of work, advertising

in the local press and on the internet

and doing quite well out of it, where the

equipment has been bought at the local

supermarket, multiple or via the internet,

and the punter has not a clue as to how

to cope with the multiplicity of plugs and

sockets and 80-page instruction books,

some of which are only available from a

printer and computer. This installation and

connection function also embraces � rst-

line troubleshooting; many problems are

down to incorrect settings, connections or

operating errors, ‘bad driving’.

On the benchBack at the ranch there are still many

jobs for technicians short of high-tech

full-blown repairs. First-line servicing, that

is dealing with dry soldered joints, bad

capacitors, blown fuses and the like, along

with � tting PSU repair kits, can cure many

ills, as can software updating by the various

means available. As I wrote last month,

where circumstances permit, repair and

refurbishment of second-hand equipment

for resale can be very well worthwhile.

Techno-guys can also test fuses,

batteries, zappers, power supplies,

loudspeakers, cables and the like. They

can do sums involving amps, ohms volts

and watts and – AND – authoritatively

recommend accessories, cables and

problem-solvers. People generally have

great faith in the knowledge and integrity of

a technician, in the shop, on the phone or at

home. See that his van or car is stocked up

with the best bits!

FROM THE BENCH

HOME CINEMA INSTALLATION. PICTURE FROM CEDIA UK

BACKCHAT

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�He clearly has a need for speed and is very competitive on the track, but that doesn’t stop him wanting to make everything equal. He’s drifted into “cuddliness” since giving up the fearsomely demanding and gruelling sport of competitive rowing, but has maintained the passion and tenacity to have emerged victorious from even tougher competition. He’s Nick Portlock, general manager, home appliances, Samsung Electronics UK Ltd.

Why did you choose to work in the electrical industry? It wasn’t planned but I was always interested in the marketing and selling of consumer goods

Who in the industry would you like to spend time with? My Samsung White Goods team - the best in the industry

What makes you laugh? My eleven year old step-daughter who is wise beyond her years

What was the greatest turning point in your life? Finding out I had beaten cancer in December 2010

Hobbies? Karting and all forms of motor sport. I have competed in the British Karting Championship for the last 15 years

What’s the worst lie you’ve ever told?“No, Offi cer, I didn’t realise I was going that fast!”

What’s your greatest regret? Stopping rowing competitively in 1988. I’ve never been as fi t since

What historic fi gure do you identify with most? Blackadder’s Baldrick because I always have a “cunning plan”

How would you describe yourself?Passionate, Tenacious, Loyal, Grumpy Petrol-head!

How do you think others see you?Fair, Honest, Committed, Grumpy Petrol-head!

What’s your pet hate? Politics in the workplace. People who sit in the middle lane of motorways

Any bad habits? Speeding

If you weren’t in your present position, what job would you choose to do?Formula One racing driver

Favourite TV programme? 24. Fringe. BBC Formula One race coverage

What surprises you? Life’s twists and turns

Favourite cuisine? Tex-Mex

You have been off ered a leading role in a fi lm of your choice, what character would you like to play? Maverick in ‘Top Gun’

You have been off ered the opportunity to rule the world for a day, what would be the fi rst change you would make?Gather all the powerhouse countries of the world, unite them, work on ending world hunger and fi nd a way to make everything equal

Is there anything about yourself that you would like to change?To be taller and a little less cuddly!

Any hidden talents? I can recite every Formula One World Champion and the teams they raced for from 1966 to the present day

Any particular fetishes?Roquefort cheese, Starbucks coff ee

What would you put into Room 101?All cancers

What’s your greatest achievement?Representing Great Britain in rowing and sailing

What sort of music do you like?New Order, Joy Division, Wang Chung, Simple Minds. I’m an 80s kid

Favourite quote? “To come second is to be the fi rst of the losers” - Ayrton Senna

Who has been the greatest infl uence in your life? My wife, Nicky

Name your poison Australian Cabernet Shiraz

What do you daydream about?Being a full-time racing driver

Favourite holiday destination?Whistler, Canada - best skiing in the world

What’s the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? Finding out I had Hodgkins Lymphoma in June 2010

What’s the best kind of punishment….?Any kind, as long as I’m not on the receiving end!

…and who deserves it? Anyone other than me!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time? Happy, healthy and still working in this great industry

What’s your greatest fear? Failure

Whom do you most admire?Ayrton Senna and Lance Armstrong

What’s your favourite piece of kit? My Arai GP5 race helmet

What motto do you live by? “Racing is life... everything before and after is just waiting”

Tomorrow I will…Continue to grow Samsung’s market share within the white goods industry

Electrical retailer:“George Cole got it spot on in his column last month: the Internet is a great servant but a hard master, and if we – all retailers, manufacturers, distributors – in this electrical business don’t work together on keeping it as a controllable part of the mix, it will take over completely and there will be nowhere for customers to go for face-to-face advice, support and after sales service.”

Brown goods manufacturer:“Selling big, selling fast, selling more is not the same as selling smart and making a reasonable pro� t. As an industry we have to decide what we really want.”

25 THE WINNERS

The votes of Get Connected readers – the retail professionals and service providers to the electrical industry – have been cast, counted and verifi ed.

The calculations have been completed, and the elite group who have the right to use the Get Connected Product of the Year 2011 logo has been decided.

Get Connected and the independent Nominations Panel would like to thank all those who have participated this year, with special mention for the committed trade readership who have cast votes

in what has become the industry’s most democratic and respected trade awards programme.

In diffi cult times, such peer acknowledgement of outstanding products and concepts is even more important, and the number of votes cast in 2011 has substantially exceeded last year’s record poll.

The winners of the Get Connected Products of the Year Awards 2011 are listed on the following pages, together with an extract from the Panel’s citation. Our congratulations to all of them.

26 THE GE T CONNEC TED PRODUC TS OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2011 | THE WINNERS

Baumatic P632BS Multifunction Built-in Oven“This oven, part of Baumatic’s Black-line collection, combines powerful use of design aesthetics and unique “real black” stainless steel � nish with convenience, ease of use and versatility to create a very strong retail proposition either as a replacement item or as part of a new kitchen design concept.”

Beko OIM22500XP Built-in Pyro “Programme Clean” Oven“Beko has responded to the demands of the built-in market with an oven that offers a great deal of consumer value both aesthetically and in terms of increasingly sophisticated technology. The judges were particularly impressed with the quality feel from a brand known for its value products.”

De Dietrich Compact 45cm Steam Oven“This 25-litre compact oven not only has style, but delivers the added dimension of steam cooking (no plumbing-in required) in a format that is easy to use, easy for consumers to understand, and easy for retailers to sell on its merits of versatility, high quality results and healthier eating that does not compromise on � avours.”

Hotpoint NewStyle cooking collection“Hotpoint has ‘most trusted brand’ status in the UK, and this co-ordinated collection of aesthetically outstanding appliances succeeds in maintaining that heritage, while demonstrating that the brand is an innovator in cooking design and technology. This collection gives consumers and retailers the opportunity to stay in-brand and co-ordinated across the entire range of major cooking products.”

Neff Flexinduction Hob“With induction becoming more accepted, more understood and more sophisticated as the hob technology of the 21st century, Neff has produced a signi� cant advance in induction functionality, well supported by clear, appealing and compelling consumer and retailer information that brings the bene� ts to life.”

NEFF_4c_ohneClaim_08.eps, 100m, 63y 29k

Rangemaster Professional+ 90 Range Cooker“Rangemaster has built on the popularity of range cooking, and the positioning of the successful stainless steel Professional+, with a highly featured, capacious 90cm range in a choice of “statement” colours and a selection

of fuel options and hob formats including induction. A strong proposition for retailers.”

Smeg Marc Newson Collection“Commissioning a respected designer to bring contemporary design and vibrant colour options to the kitchen in combination with enamel, stainless steel and glass surfaces, Smeg has captured the modern consumer taste for high functionality teamed with the ability to make a distinctive design statement in the heart of the home.”

COOKING CATEGORY

27

AEG ProClean Dishwasher� e AEG ProClean F99009M0P dishwasher combines superior cleaning with the largest loadable space in the market. � anks to a revolutionary wash system with a high speed rotating satellite arm, this model delivers the best wash results to every corner of the dishwasher! And inside you get 10 litres more space than an average dishwasher – so you can load more - even awkward shaped and outsized dishes.

Silent and e� cient too! At just 39 decibels it is so quiet you can’t hear it running! And it only uses 0.99 kWh of energy and as little as 10 litres of water.

AEG ProTex Sensidry condenser dryer� e AEG T96699ih ProTex Sensidry condenser dryer has new soft pattern drum design and in combination with special air� ow system, guarantees gentle treatment and uniform drying. � e dryer’s heat pump technology also contributes to gentle drying by drying at lower temperatures. And it makes ProTex one of the most energy e� cient dryers on the market, with 50% less energy consumption than A-Class – the highest e� ciency rating available from any manufacturer. It matches the AEG ProTex washing machines perfectly, with stainless steel panels, ‘hi� ’ programme selectors and the round porthole design with glass door.

www.aeg.co.ukTrade Sales Telephone number: 08445 610610

AEG UltraOne Vacuum Cleaner� e AEG UltraOne vacuum cleaner o� ers outstanding performance and is beautiful enough to win an IF Design Award. � is technologically advanced, super-quiet vacuum cleaner has been engineered to perform at the highest level – for perfect results on carpets and hard � oors. � e cleaning performance of the UltraOne is extremely powerful and it has been given top scores in a wide number of cleaning-performance tests. From nozzle to outlet, the air� ow has been sealed and optimised for e� ciency. Combined with a powerful motor, this means extremely e� cient vacuuming.


REFRIGERATION CATEGORY

Beko 4-door Fridge/Freezer GNE 114610X“Beko has taken a decisive position in the growing four-door cooling category with a model that is well designed, offers a good level of cooling technology, and has the added bene� t of a ‘Flexi Zone’ compartment that can be easily switched between fridge, freezer, wine cooler or chiller functions to suit seasonal or other family requirements. Very good value in this competitive market.”

Gorenje Retro Collection“The Gorenje Retro refrigeration range combines modern cooling technology with ‘statement’ retro design in a wide choice of distinctive colours. The Retro collection has strong aesthetic appeal, and this is teamed with A++ and A+ class energy ratings, good thermal insulation and, as an added con� dence booster, carries the Gorenje 5-year parts and labour guarantee.”

LG non-plumbed Water & Ice Fridge/Freezer“The LG non-plumbed Water & Ice Fridge/Freezer makes its second successive appearance as a winner in these awards, which is testament to its lasting appeal

and longevity as a strong sales proposition in this competitive, aspirational sector of the cooling market.”

Rangemaster DxD four door refrigeration“This is a very strong entry into the four-door market with a product that has a very high speci� cation, outstanding looks, big capacity, versatile storage options and the ability to make a powerful statement in any home. It comes in a choice of � nishes and complements Rangemaster’s range cookers.”

capacity, versatile storage options and the ability to make a powerful

It comes in a choice of � nishes and

DISHWASHING CATEGORY

AEG ProClean Dishwasher Range“A highly ef� cient, virtually silent, water and energy saving concept from AEG that has a genuinely innovative wash system, plus what is claimed as the largest loadable space on the UK market. An outstanding sales proposition for both the new user and upgrade sectors of dishwashing.”

Bosch Exxcel Aquastar Dishwashers“Bosch, always an outstanding brand in dishwashing, has delivered in the Exxcel AquaStar a versatile, ef� cient concept with A++ energy rating and the new ActiveWater technology which reduces water consumption to just 6.5 litres for a 13-place setting load. Another powerful reason to buy into dishwashers for the � rst time or to upgrade.”

Siemens iQ 300 Dishwasher“An ef� cient, impeccably engineered 13-place setting dishwasher with six programmes, time delay function and the Siemens iQ technology that senses how full the machine is and adjusts water usage accordingly. A no-nonsense, reliable and proven dishwasher with a trusted name that is helping to drive the uptake of dishwashers in UK households.”

Introducing NewStyle from Hotpoint. A range of Built-In appliances: single and double ovens, hobs and hoods with a striking new aesthetic that combines smooth curves, meticulous detailing and an exceptional finish.

The NewStyle oven range is a pleasure to use - from the smooth feel of the door mechanism and the curve of the handle to the ergonomically designed controls. The SH89P single oven features 8 Cooking Programmes and a Fast Clean Pyrolytic cycle. NewStyle Hobs co-ordinate effortlessly with the style of the ovens and come in a range of 75cm or 60cm widths. Whilst our HS6EIX Hood combines style and intelligent features such as delay timer, filter alert and booster.

Winner of the Get Connected Product of the Year Award Cooking Category.

New thinking • Appliances with curve appeal

NewStyle Get Connected ad.indd 1 9/5/11 15:27:24


Whirlpool Green Generation“In the Green Generation range of laundry, dishwashing and refrigeration appliances, Whirlpool has made a clear, integrated and identi� able move towards presenting consumers with an ecologically responsible approach to major electrical appliances that does not compromise on looks or performance. An excellent win-win proposition for retailers from an established and familiar brand.”

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS

CATEGORY

Humax FOXSAT-HDR freesat+ HD recorder“Humax has been a consistently powerful partner for retailers as digital switchover has progressed across the UK, and the brand has an outstanding reputation with consumers and retailers for quality and reliability. Humax was the � rst to launch a freesat+ digital TV recorder in the UK, and this, together with subsequent launches, has given retailers the ability to bene� t from strong margins and sustained high sales volumes.”

LG 42LX6900 3D-ready TVThe LG 42LX6900 is a 42-inch model that offers good value for the price and is a good entry point for consumers wanting to take the 3D plunge without spending too heavily. It is 3D ready, offers 1080p Full HD, TruMotion 200Hz, a built-in Freeview HD tuner and a Netcast direct internet connection. A lot of TV for the price and a valuable tool for retailers in the campaign to turn the UK on to 3D TV”

Panasonic Viera TX-P42G20B 3D ready Plasma TV“Panasonic is known for its outstanding Viera ranges of Plasma TVs, and in this 1080p, 5,000,000:1 dynamic contrast panel equipped with four HDMIs, dual Freesat/Freeview HD tuners and recording to USB, retailers have a very high quality Plasma TV that can be con� dently recommended to all customers who have chosen the plasma panel option.”

PURE Evoke digital radio family“Pure has been producing a consistently high standard of technology, functionality and design in the Evoke range for a number of years, creating a trusted family of high-quality digital radios that has an established presence in the market and has spawned a number of mainstream and “special edition” propositions for retailers.”

HOME LAUNDRY & GARMENT CARE CATEGORY

AEG Sensidry condenser dryers“AEG’s Sensidry condenser dryers represent the latest generation of dryers that are helping to convince many more energy (and cost) conscious UK consumers that this is a viable investment in time-saving technology. With generous load capacity, advanced garment care features, humidity sensors and the latest in ef� cient heat pumps delivering up to 50% less energy consumption, these machines give retailers a great sales story.”

Bosch Ecologixx 7 condenser tumble dryers“The Bosch reputation for energy ef� ciency, reliability and ease of use is carried through in these latest manifestations of the Exologixx 7 series, where fresh contemporary design contains the A-40% energy ef� ciency,

heat pump technology, choice of sensor programmes and added value features that have made the series an enduring winner for retailers.”

MDA RANGES CATEGORY

Humax, your digital switchover partnerThe award-winning range of Humax set-top boxes and recorders for

Freeview and Freesat is designed to enable you to meet consumer

demand and generate high volume sales. With high defi nition (HD)

and on-demand content, advanced recording features and interactive

services, there is a box to suit any TV viewer’s needs.

Humax Trade: Working with you to grow your business

Set up for the independent electrical retailer, Humax Trade is here to

help you purchase, market and increase your sales of Humax’s

digital TV products.

Become a Humax Trade member to enjoy exclusive benefi ts:• Free next day delivery

• After sales support, with a dedicated Humax account manager

• Point of sale material and product collateral

• Incentives and loyalty schemes

• Two year warranty across the product range

• Limited edition products

To place your order, visit www.humaxtrade.co.uk

210x297_HDR_FOX T2_retailer.indd 1 04/03/2011 13:58


Hotpoint Aquarius 6Kg washing machine“With the ‘Eco Tech’ symbol indicating Hotpoint’s commitment to higher performance with lower energy consumption, this 6Kg range with LED display, a choice of � nishes and available in three spin speeds is at the heartland of consistent sales achievement and “most trusted” status that delivers bene� ts both to retailers and their customers.”

SMALL APPLIANCES CATEGORY

KitchenAid Artisan stand mixer

“KitchenAid has built a powerful reputation in the UK, and the Artisan mixer, a large-capacity mixer with direct drive technology, choice of colours,

ease of use, versatility and retro looks is a high-end cooking tool with strong consumer appeal.”

FLOORCARE CATEGORY

AEG UltraOne Vacuum Cleaner“A very attractively designed, manoeuvrable vacuum cleaner with high performance test ratings, powerful motor and sealed air� ow system, engineered to be effective on both hard and soft � oors. An extremely strong stand-out proposition that ticks all the

consumer boxes in this crowded and competitive market.”

Miele S5 Series“Miele makes outstanding vacuum cleaners, respected for their performance, engineering and durability, and the S5 cylinder cleaner series is packed with the technology and bene� ts that make it a con� dent choice for consumers who want assured reliability, performance and longevity.”

SEBO Airbelt D“Sebo is one of a small handful of brands to have achieved iconic status among brand-loyal consumers and retailers, and the Airbelt D exhibits the durability, performance, engineering innovation and ease of use characteristics that continue to take the brand forward and inspire enormous loyalty.”

SPECIAL AWARDS CATEGORY

The category for ideas, concepts and initiatives in the industry

Beko/Blomberg commercial initiative for independent retailers“Beko has developed a very strong brand proposition for independent retailers with its added value affordable ranges, and the launch of the Blomberg brand with its exclusive three-year CIH members’ deal has opened up a fresh commercial proposition for independent electrical retailers in the UK.”

HOME LAUNDRY & GARMENT CARE CATEGORY CONTINUED...

Siemens iQ 300 series washing machines“In the iQ 300 series Siemens has produced a mid-range choice with the engineering, reliability and performance virtues that consumers have con� dence in and retailers can rely upon to achieve consistent sales. A very well positioned and priced set of laundry products with added value technology.”

high performance test ratings, powerful

engineered to be effective on both hard

consumer boxes in

competitive market.”

KitchenAid Artisan stand mixer

“KitchenAid has built a powerful reputation in the UK, and the Artisan mixer, a large-capacity mixer with direct drive technology, choice of colours,

ease of use, versatility and retro looks is a high-end cooking tool with strong consumer appeal.”

Miele S5 Series“Miele makes outstanding vacuum cleaners, respected for their performance, engineering and durability, and the S5 cylinder cleaner series is packed with the technology and bene� ts that make it a con� dent choice for consumers who want assured reliability, performance and longevity.”

brands to have achieved iconic status


brands to have achieved iconic status


SEBO The Floorcare ProfessionalsFor our complete range please call 01494 465533 or visit www.sebo.co.ukThe SEBO range includes the X Series Uprights, Felix Uprights and K Series Cylinders.

Made In Germany

SEBO Airbelt DDesigned to give you more

SEBO owners will testify that vacuum cleaners simply don’t come any better.

The new SEBO Airbelt D is the latest addition to the range and is truly exceptional in its performance and features.

Working in collaboration with Achim Heine, Professor of Design

and member of the German Design Council, SEBO have created a

striking new cylinder cleaner which dynamically combines form and

function. Innovative features like the 15.5m reach and ErgoGrip handle

make cleaning easier and more effective. And there is an added bonus

– it looks good too.

Behind the understated, stylish exterior lies a powerhouse of

performance. For example, the new SEBO Turbofan motor uses

the latest turbine technology to generate incredible suction.

A technologically advanced cone shaped hose further boosts

suction power, giving the highest levels of cleaning performance.

Sound good so far? Find out how the new SEBO Airbelt D has

been designed to make life easier, by going to www.sebo.co.uk to

download the brochure.

The SEBO Airbelt DMore capacity, more cleaning range, more performance.

“Powerful and effective withvery good fi lter effi ciency”

Trisha Schofi eld, Head of Testing,Good Housekeeping Institute

15.5m cleaning rangeExtra range, extra convenience

6l bag capacityExtra long life bags

i-PowerIntegrated power control


BSH Customer Service“The BSH Customer Service initiative won an Award in this category in 2010, and is back with another win this year to prove that the initial investment in infrastructure continues to be matched by a sustained commitment to its trade partners.”

GDHA – Commitment to British Manufacture“Glen Dimplex Home Appliances has followed through on its pledge to manufacture as many of its products as possible - across its Stoves, Belling and New World brands – in the UK, and has achieved not only a powerful lift to the beleaguered UK manufacturing sector, but also a signi� cant increase in product quality.”

THE DESIGN AWARDS CATEGORY

A new category for this year acknowledging the importance of design to the industry

Dyson Air Multiplier Fan“Design is as much about engineering and functionality as aesthetics, and Dyson’s Air multiplier is a perfect example of a design that works better, looks better and adds value and consumer interest to an otherwise mundane category of electricals.”

Haier 3D Fridge/Freezer“An example of how the synergy between functionality, engineering and aesthetics produces great design. These 3D fridge/freezers are already multi-award winners, and embody what the Haier brand has set out to achieve in the UK with its ‘design, quality, innovation’ brand statement.”

Stoves Built-In Collection“A very stylish, high quality and comprehensive range of “A very stylish, high quality and comprehensive range of cooking appliances that provides the choice, performance and aesthetics to capture the imagination of the aspirational UK kitchens market and satisfy the demand for design that looks stunning and works better.”

Neff InLine Dishwasher Range“A superb aesthetic that integrates with Neff’s InLine kitchen design concept and brings the dishwasher into full design sympathy with other appliances in the range. An exceptionally well thought out and executed design statement.”

NEFF_4c_ohneClaim_08.eps, 100m, 63y 29k

PURE Evoke Marshall digital Radio “The Marshall family of ampli� ers has a distinctive, evocative and iconic status that makes it instantly recognizable and conjures up a whole world of associations. Bringing the Marshall identity together with the PURE Evoke digital radio concept created a new icon for digital radio buyers and listeners.”

Sony BRAVIA Monolithic TV Range“With the Monolithic design concept, Sony has brought cutting-edge aesthetics, elegance and modernity to the world of home entertainment, in a way that matches and enhances the cutting-edge technologies inside these ultra modern, minimalist designs.”

SPECIAL AWARDS CATEGORY CONTINUED

Live Stock Levels

New Ordering System


High Res Images



Detailed Product Specifications Sheets

... and much, much more!Email us today for your log in details so you can take advantage of the brand new site!

Email our web team on [email protected] us today for your log in details so you can take advantage of the brand new site!

Comments from some

customers so far...

‘best website in the indus

try’

‘just what we needed!’

‘a big thumbs up’

‘nice one D.A.D!’

TEL: 0844 854 6715 FAX: 0844 854 6715Domestic Appliance Distributors, Henry John House, Northway Lane, Ashchurch, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 8JH

We’ve launched our brand new: www.dad-online.co.uk

NOW L IVE . . .

SENSING THE DIFFERENCE

YOU’VE GOT A WINNINGCOMBINATION

www.aeg.co≤

The PerfektFit Fridge Freezer

OUR PERFECT FRIDGE

HAS THE DIMENSIONS TO FIT WITH ANY KITCHEN DESIGNWe’ve combined leading edge refrigeration technology with awarded design aesthetics that fit perfectly with your kitchen dimensions. You expect no less – so we deliver no less. To experience the Neue Kollektion go to www.aeg.co.uk

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