36
STEAMBAKE HAS ARRIVED TIME TO TURN UP THE HEAT MAY 2016 AUDIO & DIGITAL STREAMING The constantly evolving world of audio GEORGE COLE GETS CONNECTED Selling UHD TV: what could possibly go wrong? FROM THE BENCH Broadband speeds for TV BACKCHAT 2-minute interview with CDA’s Steve Corbett 17 PLUS INTEGRAL COOKING SUPPLEMENT FOOD PREPARATION: Healthy outlook for premium- end sales BUILT-IN APPLIANCES: Capturing the market FREESTANDING APPLIANCES: A sector not to be ignored COFFEE MACHINES: Consumer spend continues to grow PLUS… THE GOURMET QUARTER: Manufacturers promote a selection of their latest products THE MAGAZINE OF THE ELECTRICAL GOODS INDUSTRY gcmagazine.co.uk

Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

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The Magazine of the Electrical Goods Industry. INSIDE: 04 Editorial Comment 06 The Word In and around the industry 13 George Cole Gets Connected Selling a UHD TV has never been easier – or harder! 14 Audio & Digital Streaming GC looks at how the audio market is evolving 16 From the Bench TV streaming and downloading via IP – Alan Bennett discusses the need for speed 17 Integral Cooking Supplement Featuring: 18 Food Preparation Appliances 20 Built-in Cooking Appliances 26 The Gourmet Quarter 28 Freestanding Cooking Appliances 30 Coffee Machines 34 Backchat 2-minute interview with Steve Corbett, Marketing Manager for Nottinghamshire-based appliance firm CDA

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Page 1: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Sell SONOS SmarterThe Flexson Cantilever TV Mount For the SONOS PLAYBAR is just one of the 75+ smart accessories designed in the UK for every SONOS product.

It’s the ultimate way to wall mount a TV and a SONOS PLAYBAR.

• Vertical and horizontal adjustment to align screen and SONOS PLAYBAR

• SONOS PLAYBAR appears as part of the TV and rotates in line with it

• Rotates up to 180° with 40” screen

• Fits screens 37”- 55” (all VESA mounts to 600 x 400mm)

• Maximum TV 40kgs

• Designed and manufactured in the UK

Once demonstrated, the benefits of the Flexson Cantilever TV Mount become clear – so we have a smart offer to support you:

GET A FREE FLEXSON CANTILEVER TV MOUNT FOR THE SONOS PLAYBAR FOR DEMONSTRATION*If you don’t have the wall space, we’re also offering the same opportunity for the Flexson TV Stand for the SONOS PLAYBAR For details, please contact us on 0208 358 5888.

*T/Cs apply

Flexson Cantilever TV Mount For the SONOS PLAYBAR

Flexson TV Stand For the SONOS PLAYBAR

Discover 75+ superb solutions, for every SONOS product at Flexson.com

STEAMBAKE HAS ARRIVEDTIME TO TURN UP THE HEAT

MAY 2016

AUDIO & DIGITAL STREAMINGThe constantly evolving world of audio

GEORGE COLE GETS CONNECTEDSelling UHD TV: what could possibly go wrong?

FROM THE BENCHBroadband speeds for TV

BACKCHAT2-minute interview with CDA’s Steve Corbett

AUDIO & DIGITAL

17PLUS INTEGRAL

COOKING SUPPLEMENT

FOOD PREPARATION: Healthy outlook for premium-end sales

BUILT-IN APPLIANCES: Capturing the market

FREESTANDING APPLIANCES: A sector not to be ignored

COFFEE MACHINES: Consumer spend continues to grow

PLUS…THE GOURMET QUARTER: Manufacturers promote a selection of their latest products

T HE MAG AZINE OF T HE ELEC T RIC AL GOODS INDUS T RY

gcmagazine.co.uk

Page 2: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Dirt has nowhere to hide

The NEW SEBO AIRBELT E RangeThe strong, silent type

Help your customers take cleaning to a new level with the SEBO AIRBELT E vacuum cleaner. The super-quiet, yet extremely powerful motor, variable suction, free-rolling castors, long cleaning range and easy to hold handle, make cleaning much easier… and quieter. It looks good on display too!

SEBO. Tough on dirt.

For a chance to win a SEBO vacuum cleaner, enter our monthly draw at:

www.sebo.co.uk

01494 465533 [email protected]

Does not apply to all models

INSIDE...

3GET CONNECTEDMAY 2016

CONTENTS

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, Greyfriar Cottage, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, Hampshire GU34 1SB.

© Copyright 2016 Mud Hut Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

04 Editorial Comment

06 The Word In and around the industry

13 George Cole Gets Connected Selling a UHD TV has never been easier –

or harder!

14 Audio & Digital Streaming GC looks at how the audio market

is evolving

16 From the Bench TV streaming and downloading via IP –

Alan Bennett discusses the need for speed

17 Integral Cooking Supplement Featuring:

18 Food Preparation Appliances

20 Built-in Cooking Appliances

26 The Gourmet Quarter

28 Freestanding Cooking Appliances

30 Coffee Machines

34 Backchat 2-minute interview with Steve Corbett,

Marketing Manager for Nottinghamshire-based appliance firm CDA

27

Mud Hut Publishing Ltd. Greyfriar Cottage, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, Hampshire. GU34 1SB

www.gcmagazine.co.uk

JURA E8 CHROMEhttps://uk.jura.com

Page 3: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Dirt has nowhere to hide

The NEW SEBO AIRBELT E RangeThe strong, silent type

Help your customers take cleaning to a new level with the SEBO AIRBELT E vacuum cleaner. The super-quiet, yet extremely powerful motor, variable suction, free-rolling castors, long cleaning range and easy to hold handle, make cleaning much easier… and quieter. It looks good on display too!

SEBO. Tough on dirt.

For a chance to win a SEBO vacuum cleaner, enter our monthly draw at:

www.sebo.co.uk

01494 465533 [email protected]

Does not apply to all models

INSIDE...

3GET CONNECTEDMAY 2016

CONTENTS

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, Greyfriar Cottage, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, Hampshire GU34 1SB.

© Copyright 2016 Mud Hut Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

Editor in Chief:Marlinda Conway Telephone: 01420 886 [email protected]

Magazine Advertising Sales: Brian ShillingTelephone: 01892 677 741 [email protected]

Sharon MaslenTelephone: 01892 677 [email protected]

Editorial & Publishing Director:Terry HeathTelephone: 01420 886 [email protected]

Subscriptions & Circulation:(GCCD) Telephone: 01420 886 [email protected]

Creative Director: Will [email protected]

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

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

04 Editorial Comment

06 The Word In and around the industry

13 George Cole Gets Connected Selling a UHD TV has never been easier –

or harder!

14 Audio & Digital Streaming GC looks at how the audio market

is evolving

16 From the Bench TV streaming and downloading via IP –

Alan Bennett discusses the need for speed

17 Integral Cooking Supplement Featuring:

18 Food Preparation Appliances

20 Built-in Cooking Appliances

26 The Gourmet Quarter

28 Freestanding Cooking Appliances

30 Coffee Machines

34 Backchat 2-minute interview with Steve Corbett,

Marketing Manager for Nottinghamshire-based appliance firm CDA

27

Mud Hut Publishing Ltd. Greyfriar Cottage, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, Hampshire. GU34 1SB

www.gcmagazine.co.uk

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

JURA E8 CHROMEhttps://uk.jura.com

Page 4: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

BHS is the latest

example of how a tidy profit can be turned from an ailing retail empire that collapses leaving 11,000 retail workers in jeopardy, £1.3 billion in debts to other businesses who will not now be paid, and 20,000 pension scheme members with a £521 million deficit in their BHS pension pot that may now have to be (if only partially) made up by the Government-administered Pension Protection Fund.

Sir Philip Green sold BHS to an investment outfit called Retail Acquisitions in 2015 for £1. A bad deal for him, you might say, given that he bought the company for £200 million. But his family benefited to the tune of £400 million in dividends during the period of ownership. Tax-free, of course, since Lady Green, who owns the operation Sir Philip runs, lives conveniently in the tax haven of Monaco.

It’s a familiar pattern: the sale of a retail institution to an “investment” company for a nominal sum, with promises to turn the business around. Sadly, this proves beyond the best efforts of the buyer, and administration remains the only option.

Remember, Comet was sold to OpCapita for £2 in 2011, and we know what happened in the debacle that followed. Or at least, we know some of what happened, such as the unpaid suppliers, the staff made redundant with no funds for redundancy payments… But for some reason we can only guess, the Government has decreed that we will not be told the findings of the enquiry into this particular affair. So we pay for the enquiry but won’t be allowed to know its outcomes.

In the case of BHS, that £1 price paid by Retail Acquisitions looks like a good deal.

Dominic Chappell, who heads up RA, took £540,000 in salary from BHS for the last year. RA also “borrowed” £8.4 million from BHS to

cover “professional fees” to third parties. And a week before BHS collapsed, Mr Chappell transferred £1.5 million to an

unrelated company called BHS Sweden, reportedly owned by “a friend.”

Loads’a money. And without the inconvenience or graft of actually having to sell stuff from a shop.

Big retail is being plundered by predators. Small retail is struggling. And short of a radical change in the law, which won’t happen (David Cameron and George Osborne biting the hand that feeds them?), there’s nothing we can do about it.

So what’s the way forward for electrical retail in this hostile environment?

Could we see the regrowth of small, local, well managed, attentive specialist retailers who know their products, care about their customers and understand the synergy between bricks and mortar, the internet and social media, and can offer a “retail experience” that’s as much a social as a transactional event?

It’s not unprecedented. As the big brewers in the UK struggle, micro breweries are proliferating, offering craft beers that create passion and interaction with a customer base that believes it has a say in the product.

Retailers can’t brew their own craft electrical products. But with technology bringing almost daily advances in “custom” solutions to individual consumers’ needs, they can be the friendly, accessible, expert conduit through which these individual solutions are crafted.

THE HIGH STREET IS BOOMING. IT’S PRODUCING REMARKABLE RETURNS FOR SKILLED OPERATORS WHO REALLY KNOW

HOW TO SEIZE THEIR OPPORTUNITIES…

BUT NOT, IRONICALLY, FOR ACTUAL RETAILERS.

COMMENT

Database independently audited by Firgrove Consultancy. Average net 10 issues: 5,927Mar 2012 – Feb 2013

Marlinda ConwayEditor in Chief

Terry HeathEditorial & Publishing

Director

George ColeConsumer Electronics

Consultant

James McIntoshConsumer Consultant

Will DobsonCreative Director

for your FREE COPY of Get Connected Magazine

www.gcmagazine.co.uk

GET CONNECTED4 MAY 2016

EDITORIAL COMMENT

Call us on 0844 557 3750 for more information.

De Dietrich Core and Premium ranges are now available ex-stock and come with a free 3 year parts and labour warranty* * On all Dietrich domestic appliances registered within 30 days of purchase in the UK.

www.dedietrichwarranty.comTelephone: 0844 847 7641

In Warranty RepairsTelephone: 0844 847 7641

Out of Warranty Service & RepairsTelephone: 0844 557 3701

Sales Office: 0844 557 3750 www.dedietrich.co.uk

Page 5: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

BHS is the latest

example of how a tidy profit can be turned from an ailing retail empire that collapses leaving 11,000 retail workers in jeopardy, £1.3 billion in debts to other businesses who will not now be paid, and 20,000 pension scheme members with a £521 million deficit in their BHS pension pot that may now have to be (if only partially) made up by the Government-administered Pension Protection Fund.

Sir Philip Green sold BHS to an investment outfit called Retail Acquisitions in 2015 for £1. A bad deal for him, you might say, given that he bought the company for £200 million. But his family benefited to the tune of £400 million in dividends during the period of ownership. Tax-free, of course, since Lady Green, who owns the operation Sir Philip runs, lives conveniently in the tax haven of Monaco.

It’s a familiar pattern: the sale of a retail institution to an “investment” company for a nominal sum, with promises to turn the business around. Sadly, this proves beyond the best efforts of the buyer, and administration remains the only option.

Remember, Comet was sold to OpCapita for £2 in 2011, and we know what happened in the debacle that followed. Or at least, we know some of what happened, such as the unpaid suppliers, the staff made redundant with no funds for redundancy payments… But for some reason we can only guess, the Government has decreed that we will not be told the findings of the enquiry into this particular affair. So we pay for the enquiry but won’t be allowed to know its outcomes.

In the case of BHS, that £1 price paid by Retail Acquisitions looks like a good deal.

Dominic Chappell, who heads up RA, took £540,000 in salary from BHS for the last year. RA also “borrowed” £8.4 million from BHS to

cover “professional fees” to third parties. And a week before BHS collapsed, Mr Chappell transferred £1.5 million to an

unrelated company called BHS Sweden, reportedly owned by “a friend.”

Loads’a money. And without the inconvenience or graft of actually having to sell stuff from a shop.

Big retail is being plundered by predators. Small retail is struggling. And short of a radical change in the law, which won’t happen (David Cameron and George Osborne biting the hand that feeds them?), there’s nothing we can do about it.

So what’s the way forward for electrical retail in this hostile environment?

Could we see the regrowth of small, local, well managed, attentive specialist retailers who know their products, care about their customers and understand the synergy between bricks and mortar, the internet and social media, and can offer a “retail experience” that’s as much a social as a transactional event?

It’s not unprecedented. As the big brewers in the UK struggle, micro breweries are proliferating, offering craft beers that create passion and interaction with a customer base that believes it has a say in the product.

Retailers can’t brew their own craft electrical products. But with technology bringing almost daily advances in “custom” solutions to individual consumers’ needs, they can be the friendly, accessible, expert conduit through which these individual solutions are crafted.

THE HIGH STREET IS BOOMING. IT’S PRODUCING REMARKABLE RETURNS FOR SKILLED OPERATORS WHO REALLY KNOW

HOW TO SEIZE THEIR OPPORTUNITIES…

BUT NOT, IRONICALLY, FOR ACTUAL RETAILERS.

COMMENT

Database independently audited by Firgrove Consultancy. Average net 10 issues: 5,927Mar 2012 – Feb 2013

Marlinda ConwayEditor in Chief

Terry HeathEditorial & Publishing

Director

George ColeConsumer Electronics

Consultant

James McIntoshConsumer Consultant

Will DobsonCreative Director

for your FREE COPY of Get Connected Magazine

www.gcmagazine.co.uk

GET CONNECTED4 MAY 2016

EDITORIAL COMMENT

Call us on 0844 557 3750 for more information.

De Dietrich Core and Premium ranges are now available ex-stock and come with a free 3 year parts and labour warranty* * On all Dietrich domestic appliances registered within 30 days of purchase in the UK.

www.dedietrichwarranty.comTelephone: 0844 847 7641

In Warranty RepairsTelephone: 0844 847 7641

Out of Warranty Service & RepairsTelephone: 0844 557 3701

Sales Office: 0844 557 3750 www.dedietrich.co.uk

Page 6: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer participation in the world of WEEE recycling... visit our new website for full details!

For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk

REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer participation in the world of WEEE recycling... visit our new website for full details!REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer

For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk

APRIL MARKS THREE YEARS OF FALLING SHOP PRICES

Shop prices recorded deflation for the 36th consecutive month in April

with non-food deflation accelerating to 2.9%.

Overall prices fell 1.7% on the prior year and while food returned to inflationary territory, non-food experienced its 37th month of falling prices – deeper than the 2.7% 12-month average for the sector.

The British Retail consortium said that electricals were amongst the “excellent bargains” to be found.

CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REACHES 15-MONTH LOW

UK consumer confidence fell to its lowest level in over a year as the

forthcoming EU referendum and fears for the stability of the Eurozone dented public confidence in Britain’s economy. GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index dropped three points in April to -3, the lowest point in 15 months, with all measures used to calculate the score decreasing.

Joe Staton, Head of Market Dynamics at GfK, said mixed messages about a post-Brexit world and the ongoing Eurozone crisis are “casting a cloud” over our economy.

He added that consumer sentiment on the general economic situation in the UK

for the next year had dropped 20 points in 12 months.

“Against this backdrop, even faith in our personal economic fortunes has taken a battering, contributing to the overall fall in the numbers.”

The measure for the general economic situation in the UK during the last 12 months is now 17 points lower than in April 2015, and for the next 12 months 20 points lower than at this time last year.

CONCERNS GROW FOR THE RETAIL EMPLOYMENT MARKET

The latest BRC-Bond Dickinson Retail Employment Monitor recorded

a 0.9% fall in full-time retail jobs for the first quarter of 2016, compared to the same period last year, and a 0.5% decline in the number of outlets, with food retailers driving the overall fall. The number of non-food outlets increased, after declining in the last quarter of 2015.

Christina Tolvas-Vincent, Head of Retail Employment at Bond Dickinson, said the retail sector is still undergoing a challenging time. “The vast majority of retailers intend to keep staffing levels unchanged over the next quarter, revealing a sense of uncertainty which could be attributable to June’s EU referendum. It is also likely that the recently implemented National Living Wage will be having an effect on the industry as one of the biggest employers in the UK,” she said.

In February this year, the BRC released a report suggesting that retailers could cut as many as 900,000 jobs by 2025. The organisation’s chief executive Helen Dickinson said the first-quarter’s employment numbers seem to suggest we have arrived at the beginning of that predicted trend.

ONLINE RETAIL SALES GROWTH ALMOST DOUBLES IN Q1 2016

Online retail sales growth almost doubled in the first quarter of 2016 and

growth in sales made via smartphones far exceeded that of tablets.

According to the IMRG Capgemini eRetail Sales Index, year-on-year sales increased 15% (excluding travel) compared to 8% in the same quarter last year.

Average basket value (ABV) also increased, from £77 in Q1 2015 to £81 in Q1 2016, following a general decline throughout 2015.

The divergence between the use of tablets and smartphones for purchases also continued, with the latter showing a 101% increase year-on-year (excluding travel), compared to just 6% recorded for tablets.

IMRG said that overall Q1 smartphone usage grew almost nine times that of tablets – 96% against 11%.

JESSOPS OPENSBRIGHTON STOREPhotographic specialist Jessops

marked the opening of its 51st UK store with a ceremony attended by the local community. The flagship store in North Street, Brighton will offer the full portfolio of Jessops services and a large range of cameras and accessories.

Jessops has established a strong portfolio of stores since it was rescued from administration by entrepreneur Peter Jones in 2013, but CEO Neil Old said its success is down to its multi-channel strategy, within which the high street plays a key role.

“It is all about giving shoppers choice on how to buy, whether that’s in-store where they can get hands-on experience, by phone, online 24/7, or via the collect-at-store service.

“And this all comes with the reassurance that prices will be the same across all channels and benchmarked against the leading UK retailers with our ‘Price Match Promise’.

“The expertise of our staff also plays a big part in our success – last year more than 12,000 people enrolled on our nationwide

Academy Training courses to build on their photography skills.”

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UKINDUSTRY NEWS GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY � @GC_Team

THE VERY LATEST ELECTRICAL GOODS INDUSTRY NEWS

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK

FAMILY FIRMS GENERATE MORE THAN A QUARTER OF UK GDP

A report released by the Institute for Family Business and

Oxford Economics has revealed the substantial contribution family firms make to the UK economy.

The study shows that such businesses employ in excess of 11.9 million people and make up 87% of all private sector firms in the UK. Leading the way is the retail, wholesale and repairs sector, with 470,000 businesses making up one in ten of all family firms and 89% of all private sector enterprises in the industry.

Since 2013, family businesses have increased employment by 6% and turnover has risen 2% to £1.3 trillion. This sector of the business

community also paid £125 billion in taxes and contributed 26% of the UK’s entire GDP.

Commenting on the findings, Chairman of the IFB Peter Armitage said family businesses made a “phenomenal” contribution across all sectors, industries and regions. “It’s an important reminder of how vital family-run firms are to the UK, serving as the backbone of our economy.

“Family businesses have always been at the very heart of the UK economy and based on the steady rise in their recruitment and turnover, it is clear they are here to stay.”

Amica has confirmed it is offering a 5-year parts and labour warranty on all laundry products in its catalogue with a capacity of 7kg and above.

Whirlpool has extended its customer warranties to offer a 2-year labour and 10-year parts guarantee on its new range of appliances.

Panasonic has launched a new advertising campaign for its range of 4K HDR VIERA TVs, with a short film created in conjunction with award-winning cinematographer Vanja Cernjul. The campaign debuted in cinemas on 29th April and launches on TV at the end of May.

Consumers are being offered the chance to win a €2,500 cash prize as part of a promotion by VARTA in selected retail stores throughout the UK. The ‘summer party’ competition is supported with retail POS solutions and a dedicated consumer website.

Grundig is supporting ‘Food for Soul’, a social and cultural non-profit organisation founded by the 3-star Michelin chef Massimo Bottura, which aims to make a positive impact on food waste through education and community involvement.

� SHORTCUTS

7GET CONNECTEDMAY 2016REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer participation in the world of WEEE recycling... visit our new website for full details!

For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk

REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer participation in the world of WEEE recycling... visit our new website for full details!

For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK INDUSTRY NEWSGCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY � @GC_Team

Official Partner of the Future since 1924

The Global Innovations Show

IFA+ SummitVision Meets Industry

Your Early Bird Ticket!ifa-berlin.com / summit

IFA-Contact: Overseas Trade Show Agencies Ltd.Tel. +44 20 7886 [email protected]

GetConnected_UK_IFA2016_Summit_105x297.indd 1 22.04.2016 10:41:00

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Page 7: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer participation in the world of WEEE recycling... visit our new website for full details!

For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk

REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer participation in the world of WEEE recycling... visit our new website for full details!

For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk

APRIL MARKS THREE YEARS OF FALLING SHOP PRICES

Shop prices recorded deflation for the 36th consecutive month in April

with non-food deflation accelerating to 2.9%.

Overall prices fell 1.7% on the prior year and while food returned to inflationary territory, non-food experienced its 37th month of falling prices – deeper than the 2.7% 12-month average for the sector.

The British Retail consortium said that electricals were amongst the “excellent bargains” to be found.

CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REACHES 15-MONTH LOW

UK consumer confidence fell to its lowest level in over a year as the

forthcoming EU referendum and fears for the stability of the Eurozone dented public confidence in Britain’s economy. GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index dropped three points in April to -3, the lowest point in 15 months, with all measures used to calculate the score decreasing.

Joe Staton, Head of Market Dynamics at GfK, said mixed messages about a post-Brexit world and the ongoing Eurozone crisis are “casting a cloud” over our economy.

He added that consumer sentiment on the general economic situation in the UK

for the next year had dropped 20 points in 12 months.

“Against this backdrop, even faith in our personal economic fortunes has taken a battering, contributing to the overall fall in the numbers.”

The measure for the general economic situation in the UK during the last 12 months is now 17 points lower than in April 2015, and for the next 12 months 20 points lower than at this time last year.

CONCERNS GROW FOR THE RETAIL EMPLOYMENT MARKET

The latest BRC-Bond Dickinson Retail Employment Monitor recorded

a 0.9% fall in full-time retail jobs for the first quarter of 2016, compared to the same period last year, and a 0.5% decline in the number of outlets, with food retailers driving the overall fall. The number of non-food outlets increased, after declining in the last quarter of 2015.

Christina Tolvas-Vincent, Head of Retail Employment at Bond Dickinson, said the retail sector is still undergoing a challenging time. “The vast majority of retailers intend to keep staffing levels unchanged over the next quarter, revealing a sense of uncertainty which could be attributable to June’s EU referendum. It is also likely that the recently implemented National Living Wage will be having an effect on the industry as one of the biggest employers in the UK,” she said.

In February this year, the BRC released a report suggesting that retailers could cut as many as 900,000 jobs by 2025. The organisation’s chief executive Helen Dickinson said the first-quarter’s employment numbers seem to suggest we have arrived at the beginning of that predicted trend.

ONLINE RETAIL SALES GROWTH ALMOST DOUBLES IN Q1 2016

Online retail sales growth almost doubled in the first quarter of 2016 and

growth in sales made via smartphones far exceeded that of tablets.

According to the IMRG Capgemini eRetail Sales Index, year-on-year sales increased 15% (excluding travel) compared to 8% in the same quarter last year.

Average basket value (ABV) also increased, from £77 in Q1 2015 to £81 in Q1 2016, following a general decline throughout 2015.

The divergence between the use of tablets and smartphones for purchases also continued, with the latter showing a 101% increase year-on-year (excluding travel), compared to just 6% recorded for tablets.

IMRG said that overall Q1 smartphone usage grew almost nine times that of tablets – 96% against 11%.

JESSOPS OPENSBRIGHTON STOREPhotographic specialist Jessops

marked the opening of its 51st UK store with a ceremony attended by the local community. The flagship store in North Street, Brighton will offer the full portfolio of Jessops services and a large range of cameras and accessories.

Jessops has established a strong portfolio of stores since it was rescued from administration by entrepreneur Peter Jones in 2013, but CEO Neil Old said its success is down to its multi-channel strategy, within which the high street plays a key role.

“It is all about giving shoppers choice on how to buy, whether that’s in-store where they can get hands-on experience, by phone, online 24/7, or via the collect-at-store service.

“And this all comes with the reassurance that prices will be the same across all channels and benchmarked against the leading UK retailers with our ‘Price Match Promise’.

“The expertise of our staff also plays a big part in our success – last year more than 12,000 people enrolled on our nationwide

Academy Training courses to build on their photography skills.”

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UKINDUSTRY NEWS GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY � @GC_Team

THE VERY LATEST ELECTRICAL GOODS INDUSTRY NEWS

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK

FAMILY FIRMS GENERATE MORE THAN A QUARTER OF UK GDP

A report released by the Institute for Family Business and

Oxford Economics has revealed the substantial contribution family firms make to the UK economy.

The study shows that such businesses employ in excess of 11.9 million people and make up 87% of all private sector firms in the UK. Leading the way is the retail, wholesale and repairs sector, with 470,000 businesses making up one in ten of all family firms and 89% of all private sector enterprises in the industry.

Since 2013, family businesses have increased employment by 6% and turnover has risen 2% to £1.3 trillion. This sector of the business

community also paid £125 billion in taxes and contributed 26% of the UK’s entire GDP.

Commenting on the findings, Chairman of the IFB Peter Armitage said family businesses made a “phenomenal” contribution across all sectors, industries and regions. “It’s an important reminder of how vital family-run firms are to the UK, serving as the backbone of our economy.

“Family businesses have always been at the very heart of the UK economy and based on the steady rise in their recruitment and turnover, it is clear they are here to stay.”

Amica has confirmed it is offering a 5-year parts and labour warranty on all laundry products in its catalogue with a capacity of 7kg and above.

Whirlpool has extended its customer warranties to offer a 2-year labour and 10-year parts guarantee on its new range of appliances.

Panasonic has launched a new advertising campaign for its range of 4K HDR VIERA TVs, with a short film created in conjunction with award-winning cinematographer Vanja Cernjul. The campaign debuted in cinemas on 29th April and launches on TV at the end of May.

Consumers are being offered the chance to win a €2,500 cash prize as part of a promotion by VARTA in selected retail stores throughout the UK. The ‘summer party’ competition is supported with retail POS solutions and a dedicated consumer website.

Grundig is supporting ‘Food for Soul’, a social and cultural non-profit organisation founded by the 3-star Michelin chef Massimo Bottura, which aims to make a positive impact on food waste through education and community involvement.

� SHORTCUTS

7GET CONNECTEDMAY 2016REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer participation in the world of WEEE recycling... visit our new website for full details!

For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk

REPIC Responsible Recycling is our new campaign to encourage greater consumer participation in the world of WEEE recycling... visit our new website for full details!

For more information visit www.responsible-recycling.co.uk

GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK INDUSTRY NEWSGCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY � @GC_Team

Official Partner of the Future since 1924

The Global Innovations Show

IFA+ SummitVision Meets Industry

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GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Page 8: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED8

IPO VALUES DISTRIBUTOR MIDWICH AT £165 MILLIONNorfolk-based trade-only distributor Midwich Group

got off to a premium start on the London Stock Exchange’s AIM, with its newly listed shares reaching almost 240 pence on their 6th May debut.

The distributor’s initial public offering was priced prior to the floatation at 208 pence per share, raising approximately £75.2 million and equating to a market

capitalisation of around £165.3 million on admission.

£26 million of the proceeds are earmarked to pay down debt and to fund the final cash consideration

relating to the acquisition of German distributor Kern & Stelly. Around £49.2 million is for the benefit of selling shareholders.

Stephen Fenby, Managing Director of Midwich, said the listing represented an important milestone in the Group's history. “Becoming a public company will further enhance Midwich's leading competitive position as a specialist

AV and document solutions distributor to the trade market,” he said.

“I would like to welcome our new shareholders and I am very excited about the next stage of our journey as we continue to grow both in the UK and internationally."

Midwich Group has operations in the UK and Ireland, France, Germany and Australasia.

PROPOSED REDUNDANCIES AT TANNOY; POSSIBLE CLOSURE OF COATBRIDGE PLANT

TANNOY brand owner MUSIC is proposing to make around 70

staff redundant at its manufacturing and office facility in Coatbridge, Scotland.

The company said it has entered into the process of collective consultation with employees affected, and in the event that the redundancies are confirmed following the 30-day consultation,

the Coatbridge facility would cease operations completely.

TANNOY loudspeaker production would be transferred to MUSIC’s new 3 million ft2 manufacturing plant in Zhongshan, China; R&D and marketing activities would be relocated to MUSIC’s Innovation Centre in Manchester.

The announcement was delivered to employees by MUSIC’s Peter

Sommer, Senior Vice President, Lifestyle & Home: “Following an extensive evaluation of our operational and financial structure, we have taken the difficult decision to propose that the staff in our TANNOY manufacturing and office facility in Coatbridge are dismissed as redundant which, if confirmed, would see the facility closed.

“Whilst this is a challenging

time, I would like to thank our TANNOY employees for their immense dedication and loyalty over the years, which I feel confident will not be diminished even as we approach the forthcoming period of collective consultation.”

MUSIC said that all sales, order and delivery processes remain unaffected by the decision.

GLEN DIMPLEX’S NAUGHTON STEPS DOWN AS PRESIDENT

Martin Naughton has stepped down as President and from the Executive Board of the Glen

Dimplex Group of Companies. He will be succeeded by Seán O’Driscoll as President of the Group.

The management changes will see Fergal Naughton succeed O’Driscoll as Chief Executive Officer. Michael Maher has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, Neil Naughton takes on the role of Deputy Chairman, and Martin McCourt, formerly of Dyson, joins as Non-Executive Chairman.

Sir Martin Naughton, KBE, founded Glen Electric in Northern Ireland and began trading as a manufacturer of oil-filled radiators in 1973. Within five years, the organisation embarked upon rapid expansion with the acquisition of British-based Dimplex, the UK’s market leader in electric heating, thus creating the Glen Dimplex Group – Ireland’s largest privately owned manufacturing business.

The Dundalk-born entrepreneur told Glen Dimplex staff: “I believe it is necessary to change the structure of the Group in order to drive its long-term profitable growth and success. But let us work together to make our companies even more exceptional.”

He added that he was also stepping down from the Executive Board, “but I may visit from time to time,” he said.

Naughton will remain as Chairman of the Shareholder Supervisory Board – a new Board has been formed to provide clear strategic counsel and direction to the Executive Board with specific focus on long-term performance objectives, the company said.

� Off The Wall: 10 years and still going strong

� Smart home products from Panasonic achieve ULE certification

� Haier opens new factory in Russia

� Freesat launches Wuaki.tv application

� Gorenje introduces new freestanding appliance brochure

Visit www.gcmagazine.co.uk for the stories behind the news...

INDUSTRY NEWS GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY � @GC_Team

Follow us on www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.ukwww.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

Run by the industry, for the industry

Exclusively Housewares will run alongside its NEW sister show Exclusively Electrical, designed especially for small domestic appliance buyers

Focus on trends and deals for Christmas at this year’s Exclusively shows!

With the UK’s largest line-up of top-quality homewares suppliers under one roof,it’s easy to spot new market trends and get your Christmas orders placed.

ADDIS

HOUSEWARES •

AEROLATTE • AMEFA

• ANNIVERSARY HOUSE •

APOLLO HOUSEWARES •

ARTHUR PRICE • AUTEUR • AYDYA •

CHARLES BENTLEY & SON • BERGHOFF

WORLDWIDE • BHL GROUP • BLACK + BLUM •

BODUM • BOSKA CHEESEWARES • BRABANTIA •

BRITA • BURTON MCCALL • CHARLES VIANCIN • CITY

LOOK IMPORTS • COOKWARE CO • COUNTRY MATTERS •

CREATIVE PRODUCTS • CROWN TRENT • CULINARY CONCEPTS •

CURVER • DAVID MASON DESIGN • DENBY BRANDS • DKB HOUSEHOLD • DNC

• THE DRH COLLECTION • DUBOST COLAS PRADEL • EATON HOME & DINING •

E-CLOTH • ECOEGG • EDDINGTONS • ELIA • EMILE HENRY • EUROPASONIC •

FAIRMONT & MAIN • FALCON PRODUCTS • FISKARS • FOSSEWAY

TRADING • GEH • GILBERTS • GOURMET GADGETRY • GREEN PIONEER •

I GRUNWERG • HAREWOOD INTERNATIONAL • HAUS • HORWOOD HOMEWARES

• HOT PLATE PRODUCTS LTD • IC INNOVATIONS • ICB • ICTC • IMPERIAL

INTERNATIONAL • JERAY • JOSEPH JOSEPH • JUST MUGS • JWP • KILNER • KIS • KUHN RIKON •

LE CHATEAU TEXTILES • LE CREUSET • LEKUE • LURCH • LUXURY HOUSEWARES • MAGEFESA BY

VITRINOR • MAHITTI • MASON CASH • MASTRAD • MAXWELL & WILLIAMS • METALTEX • MEYER • MICROPLANE

• MY GIFTS TRADE • NAVIGATE • NEAT IDEAS • NORDIC WARE • OCTOPUS PUBLISHING • OXO GOOD GRIPS •

PENDEFORD HOUSEWARES • PHA KITCHESSENTIALS • PLAN B MARKETING • PLASTICFORTE •

POLDER • PREMIER HOUSEWARES • PRICE & KENSINGTON • PYREX • RAVENHEAD • READY STEADY

COOK • RKW • ROBERT WELCH DESIGNS • ROOT 7 • ROSTI MEPAL • H&L RUSSEL • RYLAND PETERS & SMALL

• SABICHI • SALTER • SCOTT BROTHERS • SIMPLEHUMAN • SISTEMA • SMASH GLOBAL • SODASTREAM • STERCK •

SWAN PRODUCTS • T&G • TAYLOR’S EYE WITNESS • TEFAL • TERRAILLON • TONTARELLI • TRADESTOCK • TYPHOON •

ULTIMATE PRODUCTS • VACU VIN • VILLEROY & BOCH • WESCO • WESTERN HOUSE • WHITEFURZE • WHITFORD • WILTON BRANDS

• WORLD KITCHEN • ZODIAC STAINLESS PRODUCTS • ZWILLING J.A. HENCKELS • ARZUM ELEKTRIKLI • BENROSS GROUP • BEURER •

CONNECT DISTRIBUTION • DUALIT • EPE INTERNATIONAL • EUROPASONIC • GROUPE SEB • HEALTHY FOODS/YONANAS •

JURA PRODUCTS • JWP CHARACTER LIGHTING • KALORIK • KITCHENAID • MAGIMIX • MEYER • NUWAVE •

RKW • SAGE APPLIANCES • SMART WORLDWIDE • SMARTWARES EUROPE •

TEAM UKI • ULTIMATE •

VITA-MIX EUROPE • WITT

Page 9: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED8

IPO VALUES DISTRIBUTOR MIDWICH AT £165 MILLIONNorfolk-based trade-only distributor Midwich Group

got off to a premium start on the London Stock Exchange’s AIM, with its newly listed shares reaching almost 240 pence on their 6th May debut.

The distributor’s initial public offering was priced prior to the floatation at 208 pence per share, raising approximately £75.2 million and equating to a market

capitalisation of around £165.3 million on admission.

£26 million of the proceeds are earmarked to pay down debt and to fund the final cash consideration

relating to the acquisition of German distributor Kern & Stelly. Around £49.2 million is for the benefit of selling shareholders.

Stephen Fenby, Managing Director of Midwich, said the listing represented an important milestone in the Group's history. “Becoming a public company will further enhance Midwich's leading competitive position as a specialist

AV and document solutions distributor to the trade market,” he said.

“I would like to welcome our new shareholders and I am very excited about the next stage of our journey as we continue to grow both in the UK and internationally."

Midwich Group has operations in the UK and Ireland, France, Germany and Australasia.

PROPOSED REDUNDANCIES AT TANNOY; POSSIBLE CLOSURE OF COATBRIDGE PLANT

TANNOY brand owner MUSIC is proposing to make around 70

staff redundant at its manufacturing and office facility in Coatbridge, Scotland.

The company said it has entered into the process of collective consultation with employees affected, and in the event that the redundancies are confirmed following the 30-day consultation,

the Coatbridge facility would cease operations completely.

TANNOY loudspeaker production would be transferred to MUSIC’s new 3 million ft2 manufacturing plant in Zhongshan, China; R&D and marketing activities would be relocated to MUSIC’s Innovation Centre in Manchester.

The announcement was delivered to employees by MUSIC’s Peter

Sommer, Senior Vice President, Lifestyle & Home: “Following an extensive evaluation of our operational and financial structure, we have taken the difficult decision to propose that the staff in our TANNOY manufacturing and office facility in Coatbridge are dismissed as redundant which, if confirmed, would see the facility closed.

“Whilst this is a challenging

time, I would like to thank our TANNOY employees for their immense dedication and loyalty over the years, which I feel confident will not be diminished even as we approach the forthcoming period of collective consultation.”

MUSIC said that all sales, order and delivery processes remain unaffected by the decision.

GLEN DIMPLEX’S NAUGHTON STEPS DOWN AS PRESIDENT

Martin Naughton has stepped down as President and from the Executive Board of the Glen

Dimplex Group of Companies. He will be succeeded by Seán O’Driscoll as President of the Group.

The management changes will see Fergal Naughton succeed O’Driscoll as Chief Executive Officer. Michael Maher has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, Neil Naughton takes on the role of Deputy Chairman, and Martin McCourt, formerly of Dyson, joins as Non-Executive Chairman.

Sir Martin Naughton, KBE, founded Glen Electric in Northern Ireland and began trading as a manufacturer of oil-filled radiators in 1973. Within five years, the organisation embarked upon rapid expansion with the acquisition of British-based Dimplex, the UK’s market leader in electric heating, thus creating the Glen Dimplex Group – Ireland’s largest privately owned manufacturing business.

The Dundalk-born entrepreneur told Glen Dimplex staff: “I believe it is necessary to change the structure of the Group in order to drive its long-term profitable growth and success. But let us work together to make our companies even more exceptional.”

He added that he was also stepping down from the Executive Board, “but I may visit from time to time,” he said.

Naughton will remain as Chairman of the Shareholder Supervisory Board – a new Board has been formed to provide clear strategic counsel and direction to the Executive Board with specific focus on long-term performance objectives, the company said.

� Off The Wall: 10 years and still going strong

� Smart home products from Panasonic achieve ULE certification

� Haier opens new factory in Russia

� Freesat launches Wuaki.tv application

� Gorenje introduces new freestanding appliance brochure

Visit www.gcmagazine.co.uk for the stories behind the news...

INDUSTRY NEWS GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY � @GC_Team

Follow us on www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.ukwww.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

Run by the industry, for the industry

Exclusively Housewares will run alongside its NEW sister show Exclusively Electrical, designed especially for small domestic appliance buyers

Focus on trends and deals for Christmas at this year’s Exclusively shows!

With the UK’s largest line-up of top-quality homewares suppliers under one roof,it’s easy to spot new market trends and get your Christmas orders placed.

ADDIS

HOUSEWARES •

AEROLATTE • AMEFA

• ANNIVERSARY HOUSE •

APOLLO HOUSEWARES •

ARTHUR PRICE • AUTEUR • AYDYA •

CHARLES BENTLEY & SON • BERGHOFF

WORLDWIDE • BHL GROUP • BLACK + BLUM •

BODUM • BOSKA CHEESEWARES • BRABANTIA •

BRITA • BURTON MCCALL • CHARLES VIANCIN • CITY

LOOK IMPORTS • COOKWARE CO • COUNTRY MATTERS •

CREATIVE PRODUCTS • CROWN TRENT • CULINARY CONCEPTS •

CURVER • DAVID MASON DESIGN • DENBY BRANDS • DKB HOUSEHOLD • DNC

• THE DRH COLLECTION • DUBOST COLAS PRADEL • EATON HOME & DINING •

E-CLOTH • ECOEGG • EDDINGTONS • ELIA • EMILE HENRY • EUROPASONIC •

FAIRMONT & MAIN • FALCON PRODUCTS • FISKARS • FOSSEWAY

TRADING • GEH • GILBERTS • GOURMET GADGETRY • GREEN PIONEER •

I GRUNWERG • HAREWOOD INTERNATIONAL • HAUS • HORWOOD HOMEWARES

• HOT PLATE PRODUCTS LTD • IC INNOVATIONS • ICB • ICTC • IMPERIAL

INTERNATIONAL • JERAY • JOSEPH JOSEPH • JUST MUGS • JWP • KILNER • KIS • KUHN RIKON •

LE CHATEAU TEXTILES • LE CREUSET • LEKUE • LURCH • LUXURY HOUSEWARES • MAGEFESA BY

VITRINOR • MAHITTI • MASON CASH • MASTRAD • MAXWELL & WILLIAMS • METALTEX • MEYER • MICROPLANE

• MY GIFTS TRADE • NAVIGATE • NEAT IDEAS • NORDIC WARE • OCTOPUS PUBLISHING • OXO GOOD GRIPS •

PENDEFORD HOUSEWARES • PHA KITCHESSENTIALS • PLAN B MARKETING • PLASTICFORTE •

POLDER • PREMIER HOUSEWARES • PRICE & KENSINGTON • PYREX • RAVENHEAD • READY STEADY

COOK • RKW • ROBERT WELCH DESIGNS • ROOT 7 • ROSTI MEPAL • H&L RUSSEL • RYLAND PETERS & SMALL

• SABICHI • SALTER • SCOTT BROTHERS • SIMPLEHUMAN • SISTEMA • SMASH GLOBAL • SODASTREAM • STERCK •

SWAN PRODUCTS • T&G • TAYLOR’S EYE WITNESS • TEFAL • TERRAILLON • TONTARELLI • TRADESTOCK • TYPHOON •

ULTIMATE PRODUCTS • VACU VIN • VILLEROY & BOCH • WESCO • WESTERN HOUSE • WHITEFURZE • WHITFORD • WILTON BRANDS

• WORLD KITCHEN • ZODIAC STAINLESS PRODUCTS • ZWILLING J.A. HENCKELS • ARZUM ELEKTRIKLI • BENROSS GROUP • BEURER •

CONNECT DISTRIBUTION • DUALIT • EPE INTERNATIONAL • EUROPASONIC • GROUPE SEB • HEALTHY FOODS/YONANAS •

JURA PRODUCTS • JWP CHARACTER LIGHTING • KALORIK • KITCHENAID • MAGIMIX • MEYER • NUWAVE •

RKW • SAGE APPLIANCES • SMART WORLDWIDE • SMARTWARES EUROPE •

TEAM UKI • ULTIMATE •

VITA-MIX EUROPE • WITT

SMARTWARES EUROPE •

Page 10: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED10

Argos parent Home Retail Group reported full-year benchmark pre-tax profit down 28% to £94.7m. Sales fell 1% to £5,668m. Cash gross margin also fell, down 3% to £1,978m. The recommended offer from Sainsbury’s for the purchase of the business resulted in an exceptional goodwill impairment charge of £852m, leading to a total loss after tax of £808m. Like-for-like sales at Argos fell 2.6% to £4,095m, principally driven by a decline in electricals. Benchmark operating profit fell 36% to £83.1m.

LG reported Q1 operating profit of KRW 505.2bn, a 65.5% rise on the same period in 2015, on sales of KRW 13.36tn. Home Appliances & Air Solutions contributed KRW 407.8bn, followed by Home Entertainment (HE), with KRW 335.2bn, both up significantly on Q1 2015. HE posted revenues of KRW 4.33 tn, down 2.3% as TV shipments declined in key markets. 7.7% Q-on-Q operating margin was accompanied by a 207% increase in operating income. LG Mobile Comms posted an operating loss of KRW 202.2bn, primarily due to increased marketing expenditures.

Q1 net earnings at Whirlpool fell from $191m to $150m on the same prior-year period. Ongoing business earnings per share totalled a first-quarter record of $2.63, against $2.14, but shares in the company fell around 6% in early morning trading as earnings were below analysts’ expectations. Net sales fell from $4.8bn to $4.6bn.

Sony reported a net profit of ¥147.8bn for its 2015 fiscal year, against a loss of ¥120bn last year. Operating income increased from ¥68.5bn to ¥294.2bn on sales of ¥8,105.7bn, down 1.3% year on year. Declines in Mobile Comms due to a considerable fall in smartphone unit sales were partially offset by the Game & Network Services division. Sales in the HE & Sound division fell 6.4% due to a decline in unit sales of LCD TVs, home audio and video, but operating profit rose 109.8%. TV sales declined 4.5% on the decision not to pursue scale in order to improve profitability. TV operating profit increased by ¥17.5bn.

Electrolux posted a 158% increase in income for Q1 2016, to SEK 875m, and earnings per share up from SEK 1.18 to SEK 3.04. Operating income, at SEK 1,268m, was more than double that of the prior-year period. Net sales amounted to SEK 28,114m, a 3% decline on Q1 2015.

Samsung Electronics announced a 12% year-on-year increase in operating profit and a 5.7% increase in sales for the first-quarter of 2016. Revenue was KRW 49.78tn and operating profit rose to KRW 6.68tn. Net profit increased from KRW 4.63tn to KRW 5.25tn.

Net sales at Amazon rose 28% year on year to $29.1bn in the first quarter. Operating income was $1.1bn, against $255m in Q1 2015. Net income moved from a loss of $57m to a positive $513m.

profit down 28% to £94.7m. Sales fell 1% to £5,668m. Cash gross margin also fell, down 3% to £1,978m. The recommended offer from Sainsbury’s for the purchase of the business resulted in an exceptional goodwill impairment charge of £852m, leading to a total loss after tax of £808m. Like-for-like sales at Argos fell 2.6% to £4,095m, principally driven by a decline in electricals. Benchmark operating profit fell 36% to £83.1m.

LG reported Q1 operating profit of KRW 505.2bn, a 65.5% rise on the same period in 2015, on sales of KRW 13.36tn. Home Appliances & Air Solutions contributed KRW 407.8bn, followed by Home Entertainment (HE), with KRW 335.2bn, both up significantly on Q1 2015. HE posted revenues of KRW 4.33 tn, down 2.3% as TV

MovesMovesOTONE Audio has appointed Steve Hadler to the role of National Account Manager.

Steve Moss has joined Hoover Candy Baumatic as regional sales manager – built-in electricals channel for the South.

Hoover has strengthened its

freestanding division sales team with the

appointment ofJames Dunn as

account director.

Independent sales agency Big Red Sales has expanded its sales team. Robert McDougall (left) joins as UK Sales Manager, Steve Cox (centre) takes on the newly created position of National Accounts Manager, and former D&G National Account Director Jeff Griffiths (right) has been appointed to look after the South West territory.

Giles Sutton, Managing Director of award-winning integration firm James + Giles, has been appointed the new Chair of CEDIA EMEA’s volunteer Board of Directors.

Trade Electricals Direct has appointed Dean Porter to the new position of Trade Operations Manager. The former Hughes branch manager returns to the group to take over the day-to-day running of TED’s branches in Basildon, Cambridge, Colchester, Ipswich, Norwich and Peterborough.

Trade Electricals Directto the new position of Trade Operations Manager. The former Hughes branch manager returns to the group to take over the day-to-day running of TED’s branches in Basildon, Cambridge, Colchester, Ipswich, Norwich and Peterborough.

Steve Hadler

James Dunn

Dean Porter

Steve Moss

Giles Sutton

INDUSTRY NEWS GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY � @GC_Team THE LATEST ELECTRICAL GOODS INDUSTRY NEWS >> GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK

LG 55EG960VMAY 2015

WINNERTV OF THE YEAR

LG EC970V

JK.LG-OLED.GETCONNECTED.ADVERT_MODEL_E6_297x210.PR.18.4.16.indd 1 18/04/2016 15:42

Page 11: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED10

Argos parent Home Retail Group reported full-year benchmark pre-tax profit down 28% to £94.7m. Sales fell 1% to £5,668m. Cash gross margin also fell, down 3% to £1,978m. The recommended offer from Sainsbury’s for the purchase of the business resulted in an exceptional goodwill impairment charge of £852m, leading to a total loss after tax of £808m. Like-for-like sales at Argos fell 2.6% to £4,095m, principally driven by a decline in electricals. Benchmark operating profit fell 36% to £83.1m.

LG reported Q1 operating profit of KRW 505.2bn, a 65.5% rise on the same period in 2015, on sales of KRW 13.36tn. Home Appliances & Air Solutions contributed KRW 407.8bn, followed by Home Entertainment (HE), with KRW 335.2bn, both up significantly on Q1 2015. HE posted revenues of KRW 4.33 tn, down 2.3% as TV shipments declined in key markets. 7.7% Q-on-Q operating margin was accompanied by a 207% increase in operating income. LG Mobile Comms posted an operating loss of KRW 202.2bn, primarily due to increased marketing expenditures.

Q1 net earnings at Whirlpool fell from $191m to $150m on the same prior-year period. Ongoing business earnings per share totalled a first-quarter record of $2.63, against $2.14, but shares in the company fell around 6% in early morning trading as earnings were below analysts’ expectations. Net sales fell from $4.8bn to $4.6bn.

Sony reported a net profit of ¥147.8bn for its 2015 fiscal year, against a loss of ¥120bn last year. Operating income increased from ¥68.5bn to ¥294.2bn on sales of ¥8,105.7bn, down 1.3% year on year. Declines in Mobile Comms due to a considerable fall in smartphone unit sales were partially offset by the Game & Network Services division. Sales in the HE & Sound division fell 6.4% due to a decline in unit sales of LCD TVs, home audio and video, but operating profit rose 109.8%. TV sales declined 4.5% on the decision not to pursue scale in order to improve profitability. TV operating profit increased by ¥17.5bn.

Electrolux posted a 158% increase in income for Q1 2016, to SEK 875m, and earnings per share up from SEK 1.18 to SEK 3.04. Operating income, at SEK 1,268m, was more than double that of the prior-year period. Net sales amounted to SEK 28,114m, a 3% decline on Q1 2015.

Samsung Electronics announced a 12% year-on-year increase in operating profit and a 5.7% increase in sales for the first-quarter of 2016. Revenue was KRW 49.78tn and operating profit rose to KRW 6.68tn. Net profit increased from KRW 4.63tn to KRW 5.25tn.

Net sales at Amazon rose 28% year on year to $29.1bn in the first quarter. Operating income was $1.1bn, against $255m in Q1 2015. Net income moved from a loss of $57m to a positive $513m.

MovesOTONE Audio has appointed Steve Hadler to the role of National Account Manager.

Steve Moss has joined Hoover Candy Baumatic as regional sales manager – built-in electricals channel for the South.

Hoover has strengthened its

freestanding division sales team with the

appointment ofJames Dunn as

account director.

Independent sales agency Big Red Sales has expanded its sales team. Robert McDougall (left) joins as UK Sales Manager, Steve Cox (centre) takes on the newly created position of National Accounts Manager, and former D&G National Account Director Jeff Griffiths (right) has been appointed to look after the South West territory.

Giles Sutton, Managing Director of award-winning integration firm James + Giles, has been appointed the new Chair of CEDIA EMEA’s volunteer Board of Directors.

Trade Electricals Direct has appointed Dean Porter to the new position of Trade Operations Manager. The former Hughes branch manager returns to the group to take over the day-to-day running of TED’s branches in Basildon, Cambridge, Colchester, Ipswich, Norwich and Peterborough.

Steve Hadler

James Dunn

Dean Porter

Steve Moss

Giles Sutton

INDUSTRY NEWS GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY � @GC_Team THE LATEST ELECTRICAL GOODS INDUSTRY NEWS >> GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK

LG 55EG960VMAY 2015

WINNERTV OF THE YEAR

LG EC970V

JK.LG-OLED.GETCONNECTED.ADVERT_MODEL_E6_297x210.PR.18.4.16.indd 1 18/04/2016 15:42

Page 12: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED12

SMEG OPENS NEW ABINGDON HEADQUARTERS

Smeg UK has announced the official opening of its new headquarters, located on the site of

the original MG car works in the historic town of Abingdon in Oxfordshire.

The triple-storey Magna building – Magna: Latin for ‘great’ and the name of an award-winning MG car produced on the site in the 1930s – is set in four acres of landscaped grounds which have transformed the former brown-field site.

The eco-friendly building follows Smeg’s principle of ‘technology with style’ with its sophisticated design, modern muted palette and greenery throughout. The airy open-plan environment aims to promote interaction and cross-department collaboration, and will also serve as a hub for local groups and growing already-close ties with charities, schools, businesses and enterprises.

Smeg UK managing director Mike Giddings said: “Akin to Abingdon, Smeg has a wealth of history and heritage, and as a local employer and family-run business we’re keen to continue to develop links with the Abingdon community.

“The new purposely developed building is in an inspirational setting, a space epitomising the company’s values – at the forefront of technology, style and design."

The 43,000 sq. ft. building houses iPad controlled meeting rooms, a showroom, cookery school and theatre facility, and is designed to support the ongoing growth of Smeg’s UK operations.

BEKO HOSTS R&D NETWORKING EVENT

Beko Plc introduced itself to the local Cambridge community at a VIP networking

event in Pembroke College, hosted by the newly established Beko R&D Centre which is sited on the Cambridge Science Park.

It is Beko parent Arçelik’s second R&D centre abroad and will focus on technologies such as advanced sensors for smart appliances. Investment is also being made in new materials that increase cost efficiencies and reduce energy consumption.

Beko is targeting talent from Cambridge University, start-ups, SMEs and other universities in the UK to work with it on R&D projects.

The event was also used to announce Beko’s official sponsorship of three Cambridge University Boat Clubs as part of its commitment to the local community.

(Pictured left to right): Bekir Ozyurt (Beko R&D), Cem Kural & Ragip Balcioglu (Arçelik A.S.), Teresa Arbuckle (MD Beko UK), Sir David Reddaway, Natasha Conway (Beko R&D)

EXCLUSIVELY SHOWS COLLABORATE WITH HTA

The Exclusively Electrical and Exclusively Housewares shows are working with the

Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) to encourage more of its members to attend this year’s events.

The move could open up a new market for some exhibitors. Carol Paris, HTA chief executive, said many HTA Members have seen excellent growth in housewares and cookshop departments. “The Exclusively shows give them the opportunity to focus on this key area and see the latest products and trends in the marketplace,” she added.

“As two specialist shows, we offer a depth and breadth of brands, products and suppliers that is very attractive to a great mix of retailers for whom SDA products and housewares range from the purely functional right through to ideal gifts,” said Simon Boyd, Exclusively show director.

“We are sure HTA members will benefit from this quick, concentrated look at this product area.”

Both shows will run on Tuesday 14th June and Wednesday 15th June 2016 at the Business Design Centre, London.

‘MR NEFF’ TAKES EARLY RETIREMENTBSH Independent

Kitchen Sales Director Mike Jarrett has taken early retirement after 33 years with the company.

Jarrett started with NEFF as an Area Manager for Surrey & Sussex in June 1983 and worked his way up to Sales Director for the brand in 1999, overseeing the transformation of its strategy, which subsequently more than doubled the brand’s turnover in a seven-year period. Throughout those years he became known to many in the industry as ‘Mr NEFF’.

More recently he has held the position of Independent Kitchen Sales Director for the Bosch, NEFF and Siemens brands,

and has grown the business substantially in just over two years.

Andreas Meier, CEO BSH Home Appliances Ltd, said Jarrett has been an incredible ambassador to BSH and is one of the most well known and respected characters within the UK kitchen industry.

“Throughout my time as CEO I have appreciated Mike because of his determination, honesty and loyalty. He has been living the Neff brand like not many others. I thank him sincerely for all he has done for BSH in a tremendous career.”

Simon Jones, Director BSH Kitchen Division, said Jarrett has left an indelible mark on the

kitchen industry, referring to him as “a true gentleman” and one of life’s “nice guys.”

Jarrett acknowledged and thanked his friends and customers throughout the industry for making his career rewarding and enjoyable.

INDUSTRY NEWS GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY � @GC_Team

GEORGE COLE GEORGE COLE PINPOINTS HOTSPOTS IN THE WORLD OF CONSUMER ELECTRONICS

DAB+ COMES TO SMARTPHONESThe news that LG’s new Stylus 2 smartphone will support DAB+ will be welcomed by many digital radio supporters. Sales of portable and in-car DAB radios matter, but many young people now use smartphones and tablets for watching and listening to entertainment, so having access to DAB on a handset should give digital radio lots more exposure. However, I don’t expect to see many other smartphone manufacturers rushing to follow LG – the iPhone has had FM functionality built in for years, but Apple has been reluctant to activate it, despite pleas from US broadcasters.

SELLING A UHD TV HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER – OR HARDERThis should be a good year to sell Ultra

HD (aka 4K) televisions; after all, there are many more products available, the technology is becoming more affordable, and more UHD content – in the form of UHD Blu-ray discs – is arriving this year. Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon are also planning to increase their UHD output. There’s even a logo – Ultra HD Premium – to help consumers choose the right product. So what could possibly go wrong? Well, the answer is the C-word – confusion, which can lead to the P-word – procrastination.

There are three basic elements to a UHD set’s improved performance over a 1080p HDTV television – higher resolution, higher frame rates, and improved colour and contrast in the form of Higher Dynamic Range (HDR). I’ve talked about HDR before, but basically it means greatly improved contrast and colour. With HDR, TV pictures look much better, so much so, that some argue that HDR, rather than higher resolution, is the best reason for investing in a UHD TV.

All UHD Premium and all UHD Blu-ray players and discs conform to an HDR standard known as HDR10. In order to watch HDR content, three things are required – a TV set whose peak brightness

and black level specifications can support HDR; an HDMI 2.0a connection, and content that has been mastered for HDR. The mastering process includes generating metadata, which tells an HDR-compatible TV how to display the image.

Setting the HDR standard has not been simple, not least because LCD and OLED TVs have different display characteristics (put simply, LCD sets offer higher peak brightness levels, and OLEDs a higher black level), but this issue was resolved by setting two different standards for the two display technologies. This means that anyone buying an LCD or OLED UHD TV shouldn’t have to worry about HDR; but sadly, things are not so straightforward.

Dolby is offering Dolby Vision, which could be described as “HDR+” or “Super HDR”. Like HDR10, Dolby Vision is designed to enhance both contrast and colour, but there are some differences. HDR10 mastering supports 10-bit colour, but Dolby Vision supports 12-bit. And whereas HDR10 uses a static metadata system, which provides brightness and colour information for segments of content, Dolby Vision uses a dynamic system, which adjusts the metadata on a scene-by-scene basis, which should mean even better image quality.

Dolby Vision is compatible with HDR, so any TV set with Dolby Vision can also display HDR10 content, but the reverse is not true: HDR-only sets are not compatible with Dolby Vision, because a dedicated chipset is required – you can’t

convert an HDR10 set to Dolby Vision with a firmware upgrade. So far, the only UK TV manufacturer to support Dolby Vision is LG, with its latest range of OLED UHD TVs. Dolby has the support of several major Hollywood studios, including Sony Pictures, so it’s a fair bet that Sony will at some point launch Dolby Vision-compatible sets, although a Sony spokesperson told me: “Our TVs are compatible with HDR10, because a wide availability of content is expected.” Netflix backs both horses – HDR10 and Dolby Vision. UHD Blu-ray can also support Dolby Vision, although this is an optional feature, so we are likely to see a mix of UHD Blu-ray titles, some of which are Dolby Vision-compatible and others that only support HDR10. The same goes for UHD Blu-ray players. As you can see, things could get a bit confusing both for consumers and retailers when it comes to buying and selling UHD equipment.

13GET CONNECTEDMAY 2016

GEORGE COLE

Page 13: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED12

SMEG OPENS NEW ABINGDON HEADQUARTERS

Smeg UK has announced the official opening of its new headquarters, located on the site of

the original MG car works in the historic town of Abingdon in Oxfordshire.

The triple-storey Magna building – Magna: Latin for ‘great’ and the name of an award-winning MG car produced on the site in the 1930s – is set in four acres of landscaped grounds which have transformed the former brown-field site.

The eco-friendly building follows Smeg’s principle of ‘technology with style’ with its sophisticated design, modern muted palette and greenery throughout. The airy open-plan environment aims to promote interaction and cross-department collaboration, and will also serve as a hub for local groups and growing already-close ties with charities, schools, businesses and enterprises.

Smeg UK managing director Mike Giddings said: “Akin to Abingdon, Smeg has a wealth of history and heritage, and as a local employer and family-run business we’re keen to continue to develop links with the Abingdon community.

“The new purposely developed building is in an inspirational setting, a space epitomising the company’s values – at the forefront of technology, style and design."

The 43,000 sq. ft. building houses iPad controlled meeting rooms, a showroom, cookery school and theatre facility, and is designed to support the ongoing growth of Smeg’s UK operations.

BEKO HOSTS R&D NETWORKING EVENT

Beko Plc introduced itself to the local Cambridge community at a VIP networking

event in Pembroke College, hosted by the newly established Beko R&D Centre which is sited on the Cambridge Science Park.

It is Beko parent Arçelik’s second R&D centre abroad and will focus on technologies such as advanced sensors for smart appliances. Investment is also being made in new materials that increase cost efficiencies and reduce energy consumption.

Beko is targeting talent from Cambridge University, start-ups, SMEs and other universities in the UK to work with it on R&D projects.

The event was also used to announce Beko’s official sponsorship of three Cambridge University Boat Clubs as part of its commitment to the local community.

(Pictured left to right): Bekir Ozyurt (Beko R&D), Cem Kural & Ragip Balcioglu (Arçelik A.S.), Teresa Arbuckle (MD Beko UK), Sir David Reddaway, Natasha Conway (Beko R&D)

EXCLUSIVELY SHOWS COLLABORATE WITH HTA

The Exclusively Electrical and Exclusively Housewares shows are working with the

Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) to encourage more of its members to attend this year’s events.

The move could open up a new market for some exhibitors. Carol Paris, HTA chief executive, said many HTA Members have seen excellent growth in housewares and cookshop departments. “The Exclusively shows give them the opportunity to focus on this key area and see the latest products and trends in the marketplace,” she added.

“As two specialist shows, we offer a depth and breadth of brands, products and suppliers that is very attractive to a great mix of retailers for whom SDA products and housewares range from the purely functional right through to ideal gifts,” said Simon Boyd, Exclusively show director.

“We are sure HTA members will benefit from this quick, concentrated look at this product area.”

Both shows will run on Tuesday 14th June and Wednesday 15th June 2016 at the Business Design Centre, London.

‘MR NEFF’ TAKES EARLY RETIREMENTBSH Independent

Kitchen Sales Director Mike Jarrett has taken early retirement after 33 years with the company.

Jarrett started with NEFF as an Area Manager for Surrey & Sussex in June 1983 and worked his way up to Sales Director for the brand in 1999, overseeing the transformation of its strategy, which subsequently more than doubled the brand’s turnover in a seven-year period. Throughout those years he became known to many in the industry as ‘Mr NEFF’.

More recently he has held the position of Independent Kitchen Sales Director for the Bosch, NEFF and Siemens brands,

and has grown the business substantially in just over two years.

Andreas Meier, CEO BSH Home Appliances Ltd, said Jarrett has been an incredible ambassador to BSH and is one of the most well known and respected characters within the UK kitchen industry.

“Throughout my time as CEO I have appreciated Mike because of his determination, honesty and loyalty. He has been living the Neff brand like not many others. I thank him sincerely for all he has done for BSH in a tremendous career.”

Simon Jones, Director BSH Kitchen Division, said Jarrett has left an indelible mark on the

kitchen industry, referring to him as “a true gentleman” and one of life’s “nice guys.”

Jarrett acknowledged and thanked his friends and customers throughout the industry for making his career rewarding and enjoyable.

INDUSTRY NEWS GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK >> UPDATED DAILY � @GC_Team

GEORGE COLE GEORGE COLE PINPOINTS HOTSPOTS IN THE WORLD OF CONSUMER ELECTRONICS

DAB+ COMES TO SMARTPHONESThe news that LG’s new Stylus 2 smartphone will support DAB+ will be welcomed by many digital radio supporters. Sales of portable and in-car DAB radios matter, but many young people now use smartphones and tablets for watching and listening to entertainment, so having access to DAB on a handset should give digital radio lots more exposure. However, I don’t expect to see many other smartphone manufacturers rushing to follow LG – the iPhone has had FM functionality built in for years, but Apple has been reluctant to activate it, despite pleas from US broadcasters.

SELLING A UHD TV HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER – OR HARDERThis should be a good year to sell Ultra

HD (aka 4K) televisions; after all, there are many more products available, the technology is becoming more affordable, and more UHD content – in the form of UHD Blu-ray discs – is arriving this year. Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon are also planning to increase their UHD output. There’s even a logo – Ultra HD Premium – to help consumers choose the right product. So what could possibly go wrong? Well, the answer is the C-word – confusion, which can lead to the P-word – procrastination.

There are three basic elements to a UHD set’s improved performance over a 1080p HDTV television – higher resolution, higher frame rates, and improved colour and contrast in the form of Higher Dynamic Range (HDR). I’ve talked about HDR before, but basically it means greatly improved contrast and colour. With HDR, TV pictures look much better, so much so, that some argue that HDR, rather than higher resolution, is the best reason for investing in a UHD TV.

All UHD Premium and all UHD Blu-ray players and discs conform to an HDR standard known as HDR10. In order to watch HDR content, three things are required – a TV set whose peak brightness

and black level specifications can support HDR; an HDMI 2.0a connection, and content that has been mastered for HDR. The mastering process includes generating metadata, which tells an HDR-compatible TV how to display the image.

Setting the HDR standard has not been simple, not least because LCD and OLED TVs have different display characteristics (put simply, LCD sets offer higher peak brightness levels, and OLEDs a higher black level), but this issue was resolved by setting two different standards for the two display technologies. This means that anyone buying an LCD or OLED UHD TV shouldn’t have to worry about HDR; but sadly, things are not so straightforward.

Dolby is offering Dolby Vision, which could be described as “HDR+” or “Super HDR”. Like HDR10, Dolby Vision is designed to enhance both contrast and colour, but there are some differences. HDR10 mastering supports 10-bit colour, but Dolby Vision supports 12-bit. And whereas HDR10 uses a static metadata system, which provides brightness and colour information for segments of content, Dolby Vision uses a dynamic system, which adjusts the metadata on a scene-by-scene basis, which should mean even better image quality.

Dolby Vision is compatible with HDR, so any TV set with Dolby Vision can also display HDR10 content, but the reverse is not true: HDR-only sets are not compatible with Dolby Vision, because a dedicated chipset is required – you can’t

convert an HDR10 set to Dolby Vision with a firmware upgrade. So far, the only UK TV manufacturer to support Dolby Vision is LG, with its latest range of OLED UHD TVs. Dolby has the support of several major Hollywood studios, including Sony Pictures, so it’s a fair bet that Sony will at some point launch Dolby Vision-compatible sets, although a Sony spokesperson told me: “Our TVs are compatible with HDR10, because a wide availability of content is expected.” Netflix backs both horses – HDR10 and Dolby Vision. UHD Blu-ray can also support Dolby Vision, although this is an optional feature, so we are likely to see a mix of UHD Blu-ray titles, some of which are Dolby Vision-compatible and others that only support HDR10. The same goes for UHD Blu-ray players. As you can see, things could get a bit confusing both for consumers and retailers when it comes to buying and selling UHD equipment.

13GET CONNECTEDMAY 2016

GEORGE COLE

Page 14: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

The move from analogue to digital and a huge reduction in the cost of storage

space have made a tremendous difference in the audio world. And as Jonathan Danbury, marketing director consumer division at Panasonic UK, points out, the two combined have meant consumers have grown accustomed to having access to huge amounts of music at their fingertips which they can play almost anywhere.

“With access to multiple apps and services, such as internet radio, streaming opens consumers up to different and new genres of music to listen to. But gone are the days of crowding around one device to hear your favourite tunes,” Danbury comments.

“Customers can now enjoy every piece of music they desire; anytime, anywhere,” adds Steve Reichert of Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics. “They can carry their entire music collections in their pockets, and what they don’t possess can be wirelessly streamed to them.”

Andy Graham, sales director for Pure, sees the biggest changes being in consumers’ mobile listening habits and the saturation of smartphone ownership. “This is significantly fuelling the consumption of music streaming services and in turn is driving the wireless speaker market and smarter audio products.”

“It’s all about connectivity,” comments Roberts CEO Owen Watters. “The two biggest changes in audio are the ability

CONNECTIVITY RULES

to stream music around the home and the advent of smart radio, offering a wide and varied choice of entertainment.”

Matt Coupe, head of sound at Sony UK, highlights the introduction of high-resolution to the audio world, which is incorporated in many of Sony’s products, from Soundbars to Walkman. Coupe says this is providing music lovers with another way of listening to their favourite music.

VINYL REVIVALThe “vinyl revival” has also made a lot of noise, according to Andy Bott, high performance AV category manager at Invision UK. “It has got people talking about music at home being a ‘real event’ again. That influence extends beyond vinyl itself and we are seeing a renewed interest in audio across our product portfolio, from loudspeakers to hi-res music servers.” Sony has also seen the popularity of turntables increase and has introduced the PS-HX500 turntable with software for converting records into high-resolution digital files.

“I love the vinyl revival,” says Daniel Fletcher, managing director at Orbitsound. “It’s a reminder that there is an experience to music that is not necessarily delivered by perfection and convenience.” However, Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics’ Reichert, believes vinyl is never going be anything

more than a very niche market. “Having said that,” he adds, “it doesn’t mean you can’t make a very good living catering to that market, if you do it well.”

Panasonic’s Danbury notes that the vinyl revival is not just about sound quality; it is about the whole experience of listening to music. “It is making listening special,” he comments. “We recently re-introduced a Technics turntable that has been developed for audiophiles looking to rediscover the uniquely warm sound-quality of analogue vinyl discs.”

Danbury believes there is still a lot of love for physical media. “Our All Connected range of wireless speakers not only re-streams music, but can playback CDs, USBs or radio, which demonstrates that people are still using these types of media.” This summer Panasonic will launch its first portable and waterproof speaker.

CONVENIENCEOrbitsound’s Fletcher says the reason so many consumers are embracing streaming is “convenience, convenience, convenience!” Invision’s Bott agrees:

GEORGE COLE TAKES A LOOK AT THE CONSTANTLY EVOLVING WORLD OF AUDIO

GET CONNECTED14 MAY 2016

AUDIO PRODUCTS AND DIGITAL STREAMING

“With the increasing popularity of audio streaming

services, people want their music delivered to them on the go”

“Consumers have embraced music streaming because it has delivered choice and convenience.”

Roberts’ Watters maintains that while consumers are moving to streaming, multi-room is still very much in its infancy and so this presents a great opportunity for the independent retailer: “It is key to encourage customers to trade up to a more premium audio product that offers this benefit which can only enhance their enjoyment.” Roberts’ streaming products include R-Line multi-room speakers with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and Smart Radios like the Stream 104 and iStream2.

Watters adds that there are still many consumers who are unsure of how streaming and smart radio works, and he maintains that in-store education is crucial to spell out the benefits of products. “Demonstration is key to encouraging consumers to trade up and invest in a premium product.”

ON THE GO“With the increasing popularity of audio streaming services, people want their music delivered to them on the go,” comments Pure’s Graham. “Our portable Bluetooth speaker Voca delivers the convenience of portable wireless streaming with superior sound and great design. Many of our digital

radios, including our Evoke C range, are also available with Bluetooth and Spotify Connect for added convenience.

“Customers want products which can seamlessly integrate into their own listening experience and are looking for those that work straight out of the box to offer a seamless user-experience, which is why point-to-point Bluetooth speakers are experiencing growth.”

There are many streaming products available, from Onkyo’s H500BT and E700BT headphones that include Bluetooth aptx technology, to Goodman’s Module, a £50 audio adapter that enables a standard hi-fi or music system to stream music around the home using a Wi-Fi network. Goodman’s Heritage II Connect portable DAB+ radio includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity and Spotify Connect.

WHERE’S THE MONEY?Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics’ Reichert says streaming is wonderful, but asks how electrical retailers can monetise the proposition: “You are unlikely to have sold them the phone/portable device, and are not earning a commission from Spotify, so where’s your sales opportunity? There’s only one answer: you have to offer consumers ways of increasing their enjoyment of all this accessible music. That means making it sound better and/or even more convenient to listen to.” This strategy, he says, includes selling better headphones and streaming products like the Media 7000 system from Q Acoustics, a stereo 2.1 system that users can stream music to via Bluetooth.

Sony’s Coupe points out that many of his brand’s products – from speakers to our Bravia Android TVs – are compatible

with Google Cast. “Customer preference for entertainment devices varies, and the Sony range includes speakers, home cinema AV receivers, hi-fi systems, Soundbar and Soundbase units, so consumers can create a personalised home entertainment hub.”

SO, WHERE IS THE AUDIO WORLD HEADING? Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics’ Reichert says styling will continue to improve, convenience will improve, things are getting smaller and wireless will become the norm. For Panasonic’s Danbury, multi-room seems to be the direction the industry is moving in as it gives consumers the easiest way to access their music around, or away, from the home. “But there’s also the high-resolution audio movement, where consumers are interested in quality over quantity,” he adds.

Sony’s Coupe observes the market for sports wearables growing significantly and an increasing trend towards smarter devices, such Sony’s Smart B-Trainer. “This all-in-one device offers the combination of a music player and sport device which measures and records training statistics,” he explains.

“Streaming is absolutely the future for audio,” asserts Roberts’ Watters. “Multi-functional systems offering solutions to all your listening needs are where the audio market is heading. Systems that offer DAB radio, Bluetooth, internet radio, streaming of your own music collection, the ability to operate via smartphone and tablet, and the best sound-enhancing technologies are in demand. Today’s audio consumers expect their music to sound great and to be at their fingertips.”

Orbitsound is recognised for its ‘spatial’ stereo technology

15MAY 2016 GET CONNECTED

AUDIO PRODUCTS AND DIGITAL STREAMING

Panasonic’s SC-All 7CD

“Consumers have embraced

music streaming because it has

delivered choice and convenience”

Page 15: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

The move from analogue to digital and a huge reduction in the cost of storage

space have made a tremendous difference in the audio world. And as Jonathan Danbury, marketing director consumer division at Panasonic UK, points out, the two combined have meant consumers have grown accustomed to having access to huge amounts of music at their fingertips which they can play almost anywhere.

“With access to multiple apps and services, such as internet radio, streaming opens consumers up to different and new genres of music to listen to. But gone are the days of crowding around one device to hear your favourite tunes,” Danbury comments.

“Customers can now enjoy every piece of music they desire; anytime, anywhere,” adds Steve Reichert of Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics. “They can carry their entire music collections in their pockets, and what they don’t possess can be wirelessly streamed to them.”

Andy Graham, sales director for Pure, sees the biggest changes being in consumers’ mobile listening habits and the saturation of smartphone ownership. “This is significantly fuelling the consumption of music streaming services and in turn is driving the wireless speaker market and smarter audio products.”

“It’s all about connectivity,” comments Roberts CEO Owen Watters. “The two biggest changes in audio are the ability

CONNECTIVITY RULES

to stream music around the home and the advent of smart radio, offering a wide and varied choice of entertainment.”

Matt Coupe, head of sound at Sony UK, highlights the introduction of high-resolution to the audio world, which is incorporated in many of Sony’s products, from Soundbars to Walkman. Coupe says this is providing music lovers with another way of listening to their favourite music.

VINYL REVIVALThe “vinyl revival” has also made a lot of noise, according to Andy Bott, high performance AV category manager at Invision UK. “It has got people talking about music at home being a ‘real event’ again. That influence extends beyond vinyl itself and we are seeing a renewed interest in audio across our product portfolio, from loudspeakers to hi-res music servers.” Sony has also seen the popularity of turntables increase and has introduced the PS-HX500 turntable with software for converting records into high-resolution digital files.

“I love the vinyl revival,” says Daniel Fletcher, managing director at Orbitsound. “It’s a reminder that there is an experience to music that is not necessarily delivered by perfection and convenience.” However, Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics’ Reichert, believes vinyl is never going be anything

more than a very niche market. “Having said that,” he adds, “it doesn’t mean you can’t make a very good living catering to that market, if you do it well.”

Panasonic’s Danbury notes that the vinyl revival is not just about sound quality; it is about the whole experience of listening to music. “It is making listening special,” he comments. “We recently re-introduced a Technics turntable that has been developed for audiophiles looking to rediscover the uniquely warm sound-quality of analogue vinyl discs.”

Danbury believes there is still a lot of love for physical media. “Our All Connected range of wireless speakers not only re-streams music, but can playback CDs, USBs or radio, which demonstrates that people are still using these types of media.” This summer Panasonic will launch its first portable and waterproof speaker.

CONVENIENCEOrbitsound’s Fletcher says the reason so many consumers are embracing streaming is “convenience, convenience, convenience!” Invision’s Bott agrees:

GEORGE COLE TAKES A LOOK AT THE CONSTANTLY EVOLVING WORLD OF AUDIO

GET CONNECTED14 MAY 2016

“With the increasing popularity of audio streaming

services, people want their music delivered to them on the go”

“Consumers have embraced music streaming because it has delivered choice and convenience.”

Roberts’ Watters maintains that while consumers are moving to streaming, multi-room is still very much in its infancy and so this presents a great opportunity for the independent retailer: “It is key to encourage customers to trade up to a more premium audio product that offers this benefit which can only enhance their enjoyment.” Roberts’ streaming products include R-Line multi-room speakers with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and Smart Radios like the Stream 104 and iStream2.

Watters adds that there are still many consumers who are unsure of how streaming and smart radio works, and he maintains that in-store education is crucial to spell out the benefits of products. “Demonstration is key to encouraging consumers to trade up and invest in a premium product.”

ON THE GO“With the increasing popularity of audio streaming services, people want their music delivered to them on the go,” comments Pure’s Graham. “Our portable Bluetooth speaker Voca delivers the convenience of portable wireless streaming with superior sound and great design. Many of our digital

radios, including our Evoke C range, are also available with Bluetooth and Spotify Connect for added convenience.

“Customers want products which can seamlessly integrate into their own listening experience and are looking for those that work straight out of the box to offer a seamless user-experience, which is why point-to-point Bluetooth speakers are experiencing growth.”

There are many streaming products available, from Onkyo’s H500BT and E700BT headphones that include Bluetooth aptx technology, to Goodman’s Module, a £50 audio adapter that enables a standard hi-fi or music system to stream music around the home using a Wi-Fi network. Goodman’s Heritage II Connect portable DAB+ radio includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity and Spotify Connect.

WHERE’S THE MONEY?Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics’ Reichert says streaming is wonderful, but asks how electrical retailers can monetise the proposition: “You are unlikely to have sold them the phone/portable device, and are not earning a commission from Spotify, so where’s your sales opportunity? There’s only one answer: you have to offer consumers ways of increasing their enjoyment of all this accessible music. That means making it sound better and/or even more convenient to listen to.” This strategy, he says, includes selling better headphones and streaming products like the Media 7000 system from Q Acoustics, a stereo 2.1 system that users can stream music to via Bluetooth.

Sony’s Coupe points out that many of his brand’s products – from speakers to our Bravia Android TVs – are compatible

with Google Cast. “Customer preference for entertainment devices varies, and the Sony range includes speakers, home cinema AV receivers, hi-fi systems, Soundbar and Soundbase units, so consumers can create a personalised home entertainment hub.”

SO, WHERE IS THE AUDIO WORLD HEADING? Q Acoustics/Armour Home Electronics’ Reichert says styling will continue to improve, convenience will improve, things are getting smaller and wireless will become the norm. For Panasonic’s Danbury, multi-room seems to be the direction the industry is moving in as it gives consumers the easiest way to access their music around, or away, from the home. “But there’s also the high-resolution audio movement, where consumers are interested in quality over quantity,” he adds.

Sony’s Coupe observes the market for sports wearables growing significantly and an increasing trend towards smarter devices, such Sony’s Smart B-Trainer. “This all-in-one device offers the combination of a music player and sport device which measures and records training statistics,” he explains.

“Streaming is absolutely the future for audio,” asserts Roberts’ Watters. “Multi-functional systems offering solutions to all your listening needs are where the audio market is heading. Systems that offer DAB radio, Bluetooth, internet radio, streaming of your own music collection, the ability to operate via smartphone and tablet, and the best sound-enhancing technologies are in demand. Today’s audio consumers expect their music to sound great and to be at their fingertips.”

Orbitsound is recognised for its ‘spatial’ stereo technology

15MAY 2016 GET CONNECTED

AUDIO PRODUCTS AND DIGITAL STREAMING

Panasonic’s SC-All 7CD

“Consumers have embraced

music streaming because it has

delivered choice and convenience”

Page 16: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

BY the end of this year over half of TVs sold will be Smart

types, and nearly all of them will be connected to the internet. Add this to PC and portable-device viewing and downloading to recorders and we have a huge on-line viewer base. The most popular sites for IPTV are BBC iPlayer and its counterparts on ITV, Channel 4 and Five, and Netflix for movies. Other popular ones are Amazon, YouView and other on-demand platforms like Sky and Virgin. The off-line picture quality depends on two factors: available line speed/data rates and the subscription level chosen.

NEED FOR SPEEDAll dealers are of course anxious to maximise their sales value, but it’s important to make customers aware of the significance of landline speed to avoid problems after the sale. The good news is that IPTV is possible with speeds below 1Mbps (Megabits per second) but the pictures will not be good, especially with large screens. Statistics show that the national average ‘headline’ speed is over 23Mbps, with one-third getting up to (an emotive phrase!) 30Mbps. Many, however, get less than 10 from ordinary copper lines.

For standard-definition pictures, about 1Mbps is required – the BBC quotes 0.5 to 1.5 and Netflix 3Mbps – with a better quality image. For HDTV the recommendations are 2.75 and 5Mbps respectively, while UHD calls for 15-25. BT requires a bit-rate of 44Mbps for its UHD service: interestingly, this platform supplies both programmes and internet services! This ample figure does support simultaneous use of other devices within the same household or premises however. HDR, High Dynamic Range pictures, i.e. from Amazon, adds about 20% to these figures. Many platforms, e.g. BBC iPlayer, assess the line’s speed capability and adjust the data rate accordingly, with lower quality at lower bandwidths. It’s called adaptive bitrate stream.

The quotes above are for streaming, i.e. watching TV as it comes over the line in real time. For downloading (onto an inbuilt hard disk for later viewing) a much lower transmission rate can be tolerated, but the capture time is extended at very low speeds. High data rates reduce download times: a one-hour TV show in SD takes about 11 minutes at 5Mbps and a typical movie about 25 minutes. At 8Mbps

about 7 minutes and 16 minutes are required respectively; at 16Mbps 3½ and 8 minutes; at 30Mbps 1½ and 3½ minutes; and at 76Mbps about 45 seconds and 1¾ minutes. Some sites require downloading to be complete before viewing can begin; others, like iTunes and Vudu, permit viewing after a while as recording progresses.

When selling Smart TVs, home hubs and other internet products it’s wise to ascertain the customer’s current and prospective line speeds, the latter by banging the postcode into one of the many testing sites on the internet. Large ‘multi-active’ families with many connected devices really need a superfast link affording 40-50Mbps or more. It’s a little-known fact, perhaps, that there is no requirement for a receiving licence if programmes are never watched or recorded while they are being broadcast and reception confined to catch-up services, on-demand movies and suchlike.

CAVEATSRemember that the quoted figures are ‘up-to’ ones which may only be achieved by 10% of users, and in fact speeds are usually much lower. Some independent internet

sites give more specific real-world data rates per location. Data speed can be reduced at peak times, i.e. 6-11pm, and by malware and viruses – the use of anti-virus software (not necessarily charged for) is recommended, while old routers and hubs can slow things down. Another trap for the unwary can be data capping, in which a monthly limit is imposed and excesses charged handsomely: with some of these even two or three movies per month can incur a hefty charge, so it’s vital to keep broadband packages updated to mitigate or avoid this. BT and Sky do not restrict use, while some ISPs, for example Plusnet Extra, set limits high.

DELIVERYBroadband speeds depend on the path length from the exchange to the home. The bog-standard is ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), where speed largely depends on this distance – up to 20Mbps is possible here. Superfast broadband involves a glass-fibre link to the street cabinet with copper wire onwards, or fibre direct to the home, affording up to 200Mbps – at a price. Ofcom offers an interactive map of coverage and speeds at: www.maps.ofcom.org/checkcoverage,also useful for those concerned with mobile phones. Line speed varies tremendously between districts and locations: it’s generally slowest in rural areas.

CHARGESIntense competition between internet service providers and cable companies like Virgin Media has driven down charges. Currently, the cheapest deals are around £5 per month for the first six months, £7-£10 per month thereafter, but with (e.g.) a 25GB monthly cap. Uncapped tariffs may cost twice as much. These prices are very volatile, with special offers rapidly coming and going, and may be out of date by the time you read this. Advise prospective customers to check comparison sites, e.g. uSwitch, at the time of purchase.

There are over 24m UK broadband subscriptions, covering about 80% of adults, and divided thus: 32% BT, 22% Sky, 20% Virgin, 14% TalkTalk and 12% others. 42% of users subscribe to

BROADBAND SPEEDS FOR TV

TV STREAMING AND DOWNLOADING VIA IP, INTERNET PROTOCOL, IS GROWING RAPIDLY. ALAN BENNETT DISCUSSES THE NEED FOR SPEED

GET CONNECTED16 MAY 2016

FROM THE BENCH

INSIDE

FOOD PREPARATION Healthy outlook for premium-end sales

BUILT-IN APPLIANCES: Capturing the market

FREESTANDING APPLIANCES:A sector not to be ignored

COFFEE MACHINES: Consumer spend continues to grow

PLUS...

THE GOURMET QUARTER: Manufacturers promote a selection of their latest products

THE UK’s FASTEST GROWING WHITE GOODS BRAND

LAUNDRY - DISHWASHING - COOKING - COOLING

YEARGUARANTEE

PARTS & LABOUR

A Montpellier cooker is a perfect addition to any kitchen. We have a wide range of options, so you can find the right cooker to match your space and requirements.

We offer a huge variety of hobs, including solid plate, gas, ceramic and induction models. You can even choose the number of cooking zones to suit your requirements and your style of cooking.

For further details please have a look at the website www.montpellier-appliances.com

MAY 2016

A GE T CONNEC TED INTEGRAL SUPPLEMENT

cooking

Page 17: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

BY the end of this year over half of TVs sold will be Smart

types, and nearly all of them will be connected to the internet. Add this to PC and portable-device viewing and downloading to recorders and we have a huge on-line viewer base. The most popular sites for IPTV are BBC iPlayer and its counterparts on ITV, Channel 4 and Five, and Netflix for movies. Other popular ones are Amazon, YouView and other on-demand platforms like Sky and Virgin. The off-line picture quality depends on two factors: available line speed/data rates and the subscription level chosen.

NEED FOR SPEEDAll dealers are of course anxious to maximise their sales value, but it’s important to make customers aware of the significance of landline speed to avoid problems after the sale. The good news is that IPTV is possible with speeds below 1Mbps (Megabits per second) but the pictures will not be good, especially with large screens. Statistics show that the national average ‘headline’ speed is over 23Mbps, with one-third getting up to (an emotive phrase!) 30Mbps. Many, however, get less than 10 from ordinary copper lines.

For standard-definition pictures, about 1Mbps is required – the BBC quotes 0.5 to 1.5 and Netflix 3Mbps – with a better quality image. For HDTV the recommendations are 2.75 and 5Mbps respectively, while UHD calls for 15-25. BT requires a bit-rate of 44Mbps for its UHD service: interestingly, this platform supplies both programmes and internet services! This ample figure does support simultaneous use of other devices within the same household or premises however. HDR, High Dynamic Range pictures, i.e. from Amazon, adds about 20% to these figures. Many platforms, e.g. BBC iPlayer, assess the line’s speed capability and adjust the data rate accordingly, with lower quality at lower bandwidths. It’s called adaptive bitrate stream.

The quotes above are for streaming, i.e. watching TV as it comes over the line in real time. For downloading (onto an inbuilt hard disk for later viewing) a much lower transmission rate can be tolerated, but the capture time is extended at very low speeds. High data rates reduce download times: a one-hour TV show in SD takes about 11 minutes at 5Mbps and a typical movie about 25 minutes. At 8Mbps

about 7 minutes and 16 minutes are required respectively; at 16Mbps 3½ and 8 minutes; at 30Mbps 1½ and 3½ minutes; and at 76Mbps about 45 seconds and 1¾ minutes. Some sites require downloading to be complete before viewing can begin; others, like iTunes and Vudu, permit viewing after a while as recording progresses.

When selling Smart TVs, home hubs and other internet products it’s wise to ascertain the customer’s current and prospective line speeds, the latter by banging the postcode into one of the many testing sites on the internet. Large ‘multi-active’ families with many connected devices really need a superfast link affording 40-50Mbps or more. It’s a little-known fact, perhaps, that there is no requirement for a receiving licence if programmes are never watched or recorded while they are being broadcast and reception confined to catch-up services, on-demand movies and suchlike.

CAVEATSRemember that the quoted figures are ‘up-to’ ones which may only be achieved by 10% of users, and in fact speeds are usually much lower. Some independent internet

sites give more specific real-world data rates per location. Data speed can be reduced at peak times, i.e. 6-11pm, and by malware and viruses – the use of anti-virus software (not necessarily charged for) is recommended, while old routers and hubs can slow things down. Another trap for the unwary can be data capping, in which a monthly limit is imposed and excesses charged handsomely: with some of these even two or three movies per month can incur a hefty charge, so it’s vital to keep broadband packages updated to mitigate or avoid this. BT and Sky do not restrict use, while some ISPs, for example Plusnet Extra, set limits high.

DELIVERYBroadband speeds depend on the path length from the exchange to the home. The bog-standard is ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), where speed largely depends on this distance – up to 20Mbps is possible here. Superfast broadband involves a glass-fibre link to the street cabinet with copper wire onwards, or fibre direct to the home, affording up to 200Mbps – at a price. Ofcom offers an interactive map of coverage and speeds at: www.maps.ofcom.org/checkcoverage,also useful for those concerned with mobile phones. Line speed varies tremendously between districts and locations: it’s generally slowest in rural areas.

CHARGESIntense competition between internet service providers and cable companies like Virgin Media has driven down charges. Currently, the cheapest deals are around £5 per month for the first six months, £7-£10 per month thereafter, but with (e.g.) a 25GB monthly cap. Uncapped tariffs may cost twice as much. These prices are very volatile, with special offers rapidly coming and going, and may be out of date by the time you read this. Advise prospective customers to check comparison sites, e.g. uSwitch, at the time of purchase.

There are over 24m UK broadband subscriptions, covering about 80% of adults, and divided thus: 32% BT, 22% Sky, 20% Virgin, 14% TalkTalk and 12% others. 42% of users subscribe to

BROADBAND SPEEDS FOR TV

TV STREAMING AND DOWNLOADING VIA IP, INTERNET PROTOCOL, IS GROWING RAPIDLY. ALAN BENNETT DISCUSSES THE NEED FOR SPEED

GET CONNECTED16 MAY 2016

FROM THE BENCH

INSIDE

FOOD PREPARATION Healthy outlook for premium-end sales

BUILT-IN APPLIANCES: Capturing the market

FREESTANDING APPLIANCES:A sector not to be ignored

COFFEE MACHINES: Consumer spend continues to grow

PLUS...

THE GOURMET QUARTER: Manufacturers promote a selection of their latest products

FOOD

COFFEE

BUILT-IN

THE UK’s FASTEST GROWING WHITE GOODS BRAND

LAUNDRY - DISHWASHING - COOKING - COOLING

YEARGUARANTEE

PARTS & LABOUR

A Montpellier cooker is a perfect addition to any kitchen. We have a wide range of options, so you can find the right cooker to match your space and requirements.

We offer a huge variety of hobs, including solid plate, gas, ceramic and induction models. You can even choose the number of cooking zones to suit your requirements and your style of cooking.

For further details please have a look at the website www.montpellier-appliances.com

MAY 2016

A GE T CONNEC TED INTEGRAL SUPPLEMENT

gcmagazine.co.ukcookingcooking

Page 18: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

AEG’s Sport Mini Blender

“Real product innovation in

this sector is a key market driver...”

Dominik Pytel, Marketing Director, Groupe SEB UK Ltd

The UK food prep market is maintaining a healthy outlook as lifestyle trends push product developments

The food preparation market is one of constant innovation, taking its inspiration from consumer lifestyles and new cooking trends witnessed in leading restaurants, which inevitably filter down into the kitchens of households nationwide, particularly those with keen cooks or bakers.

The category continues to be one of the best performing in the Small Domestic Appliance sector, and in the year to January 2016 it was valued at £274 million, up 27.6%, on volume growth of 14.8%, which suggests that consumers are maintaining the trend towards the purchase of higher-end products.

LIQUID GOLDPersonal blenders have proved to be a sub-category which is contributing to this growth and, according to Morphy Richards, there are now more than double the number of brands on the market than just a year ago. Driven by consumers’ focus on wellbeing, and a convenient way in which to consume the recommended 5-a-day, the personal blender market reached a value of £99.4 million early in 2016, with value growth of 74.6% and volume up 107%.

Annaliese Curtis, Consumer Category Manager for Worktop Cooking at Morphy Richards, observes the continuing trend for healthy and nutritious living now being accompanied by growing consumer interest in the ingredients used and the sources of foodstu� s. And with interest in cooking meals from scratch also growing, so too is households’ confidence in cooking: “Although the UK is still down in comparison to the rest of the world in terms of its attitude towards cooking, a substantial number of consumers are taking an interest in food. As a nation, 29% claim to have great knowledge about cooking and food; 32% are passionate about

cooking and food; and an average 6.4 hours per week are spent cooking.”

UPWARD SPIRALAs one food prep product type reaches its zenith, a totally new category emerges, old categories regain favour or products are adapted to bring added convenience to particular preparation processes: enter the soup maker (liquidisers with a cooking function), a category that is starting to make its mark in SDA, valued at £9.5 million and continuing to witness good growth, up 18.3% with volume increasing by 25.5%. According to Morphy Richards’ Curtis, soup makers were recently identified by Which? as one of the key product trends for 2016.

Mark Januszewski, CEO of kitchen and homewares product specialist Designer Habitat, believes the prominence of healthy-eating gurus such as Deliciously Ella and the Hemsley sisters has brought about a “more savvy” consumer when it comes to cooking techniques; hence, he says, “we’ve seen a stark rise in demand for products like spiralizers and food dehydrators.”

“Spiralizing is a key trend that allows health-conscious consumers to create lower calorie and lower carb vegetable alternatives,” adds Morphy’s Curtis. “It’s also considered a great product to use with children, as it encourages them to eat their 5-a-day.” Morphy Richards is responding to this latest trend with the launch of an electric spiralizer in July this year.

HITTING THE WALLAs new products enter this lucrative sector of the SDA market, others

reach their peak or simply fall from grace. GfK figures (MAT January 16) show that the kitchen machine, a rising star for a number of years, with a market value of £46.3 million, appears to have found its tipping point. The sub-category witnessed a flattening in value and a volume decline of -4.7%, following a strong performance in the prior year. A significantly greater and faster decline has been recorded for juicers; the moving annual total of 110% growth in 2014 fell in April this year to -35%. Whether the advent of the slow juicer will revive this category remains to be seen.

FORWARD AND ONWARDAs the SDA market continues to evolve, Designer Habitat’s Januszewski is expecting to see a greater selection of appliances

that stand the test of time appearing in the sector over the

next few years. “For example,” he says, “reliable equipment such as pressure cookers and food steamers are likely to re-emerge with upgraded technology for added convenience, alleviating the stress and time for cash rich, time-poor consumers.”

“When looking further ahead in the future, the role of the smart and connected home will become increasingly important,” says Morphy’s Curtis. “Consumer wearables and home heating and lighting are currently leading the way in this area, but SDA brands need to equally understand the opportunities that connected devices can bring to the kitchen environment.

“We are already supporting our key products with our Cook & Create app, which features step-by-step recipes that have been developed specifically for our products. We’re currently exploring how we can develop this initiative further to interact with our key products.”

The great British shape-up

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED18

FOOD PREPARATION

1-8ONLY2.8% FAT**

FRIES IN

MINUTES15† †

DLG_8323 Multifry Weight Watchers ad Art.indd 1 28/01/2015 12:35

Page 19: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

AEG’s Sport Mini Blender

“Real product innovation in

this sector is a key market driver...”

Dominik Pytel, Marketing Director, Groupe SEB UK Ltd

The UK food prep market is maintaining a healthy outlook as lifestyle trends push product developments

The food preparation market is one of constant innovation, taking its inspiration from consumer lifestyles and new cooking trends witnessed in leading restaurants, which inevitably filter down into the kitchens of households nationwide, particularly those with keen cooks or bakers.

The category continues to be one of the best performing in the Small Domestic Appliance sector, and in the year to January 2016 it was valued at £274 million, up 27.6%, on volume growth of 14.8%, which suggests that consumers are maintaining the trend towards the purchase of higher-end products.

LIQUID GOLDPersonal blenders have proved to be a sub-category which is contributing to this growth and, according to Morphy Richards, there are now more than double the number of brands on the market than just a year ago. Driven by consumers’ focus on wellbeing, and a convenient way in which to consume the recommended 5-a-day, the personal blender market reached a value of £99.4 million early in 2016, with value growth of 74.6% and volume up 107%.

Annaliese Curtis, Consumer Category Manager for Worktop Cooking at Morphy Richards, observes the continuing trend for healthy and nutritious living now being accompanied by growing consumer interest in the ingredients used and the sources of foodstu� s. And with interest in cooking meals from scratch also growing, so too is households’ confidence in cooking: “Although the UK is still down in comparison to the rest of the world in terms of its attitude towards cooking, a substantial number of consumers are taking an interest in food. As a nation, 29% claim to have great knowledge about cooking and food; 32% are passionate about

cooking and food; and an average 6.4 hours per week are spent cooking.”

UPWARD SPIRALAs one food prep product type reaches its zenith, a totally new category emerges, old categories regain favour or products are adapted to bring added convenience to particular preparation processes: enter the soup maker (liquidisers with a cooking function), a category that is starting to make its mark in SDA, valued at £9.5 million and continuing to witness good growth, up 18.3% with volume increasing by 25.5%. According to Morphy Richards’ Curtis, soup makers were recently identified by Which? as one of the key product trends for 2016.

Mark Januszewski, CEO of kitchen and homewares product specialist Designer Habitat, believes the prominence of healthy-eating gurus such as Deliciously Ella and the Hemsley sisters has brought about a “more savvy” consumer when it comes to cooking techniques; hence, he says, “we’ve seen a stark rise in demand for products like spiralizers and food dehydrators.”

“Spiralizing is a key trend that allows health-conscious consumers to create lower calorie and lower carb vegetable alternatives,” adds Morphy’s Curtis. “It’s also considered a great product to use with children, as it encourages them to eat their 5-a-day.” Morphy Richards is responding to this latest trend with the launch of an electric spiralizer in July this year.

HITTING THE WALLAs new products enter this lucrative sector of the SDA market, others

reach their peak or simply fall from grace. GfK figures (MAT January 16) show that the kitchen machine, a rising star for a number of years, with a market value of £46.3 million, appears to have found its tipping point. The sub-category witnessed a flattening in value and a volume decline of -4.7%, following a strong performance in the prior year. A significantly greater and faster decline has been recorded for juicers; the moving annual total of 110% growth in 2014 fell in April this year to -35%. Whether the advent of the slow juicer will revive this category remains to be seen.

FORWARD AND ONWARDAs the SDA market continues to evolve, Designer Habitat’s Januszewski is expecting to see a greater selection of appliances

that stand the test of time appearing in the sector over the

next few years. “For example,” he says, “reliable equipment such as pressure cookers and food steamers are likely to re-emerge with upgraded technology for added convenience, alleviating the stress and time for cash rich, time-poor consumers.”

“When looking further ahead in the future, the role of the smart and connected home will become increasingly important,” says Morphy’s Curtis. “Consumer wearables and home heating and lighting are currently leading the way in this area, but SDA brands need to equally understand the opportunities that connected devices can bring to the kitchen environment.

“We are already supporting our key products with our Cook & Create app, which features step-by-step recipes that have been developed specifically for our products. We’re currently exploring how we can develop this initiative further to interact with our key products.”

The great British shape-up

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED18

FOOD PREPARATION

1-8ONLY2.8% FAT**

FRIES IN

MINUTES15† †

DLG_8323 Multifry Weight Watchers ad Art.indd 1 28/01/2015 12:35

Page 20: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Baumatic BOPT609X 60cm Vantage Multifunction Pyrolytic Oven

Whirlpool’s Charles Bernstein, Category Manager – Built-in,

quotes statistics from the NHBC which show there were 75% more new homes registered in 2015 than in 2009, a dramatic increase which has undoubtedly had a positive e� ect on sales of built-in cooking appliances and the adoption of advanced cooking technologies.

“In the hob sector, induction has seen real growth in sales as consumers begin to appreciate the tremendous e� iciency, speed, safety, controllability and economical cooking on o� er,” says Bernstein. “According to figures from GfK, the increase in popularity of induction technology, flexible cooking zones and smart technology with remote connectivity have all been busy transforming the hob from a companion purchase to a more considered one.”

Bernstein points out that the gas hob has remained the traditional consumer choice for many years;

however, as consumers become increasingly aware of induction as an energy-e� icient and environmentally friendly alternative, gas is being “squeezed out” as induction becomes more competitive.

POSITIVE OUTLOOKAccording to Owain Harrison, UK head of sales and marketing Built-in, Hoover Candy Baumatic, recent industry figures show that the total cooking market was up by 12.2% overall year on year, with volume sales of built-in ovens achieving 17.8% growth, while the hobs category increased by 12% and hoods by 13.6% (Source: AMDEA – Feb 2016). “These positive figures present a very healthy picture of the built-in cooking sector and one that we believe is set to continue,” says Harrison.

According to GfK, in the April 2015 – March 2016 period, ovens enjoyed sustained growth with value sales rising 15% to £312 million, making it one of the top performing categories.

Single ovens accounted for more than 60% of the category and double ovens also captured share, with value sales rising 20%. GfK believes this follows the move towards larger capacity appliances.

Ovens hold a 43% share of the total cooking market, and one area that has contributed to this is pyrolytic cleaning. Pyrolytic ovens have experienced double-digit growth every year since their introduction, despite an average price of £609, which is considered to be more than twice that of an oven without cleaning capabilities. Sales over the aforementioned twelve-month period improved by 35% in value, and pyrolytic now accounts for 15% of the ovens market.

Sharp Home Appliances’ Rita Balestrazzi asserts that the built-in cooking sector is generating some “serious sales momentum” and is finally realising its full market potential, attaining unprecedented mainstream appeal, vastly

extending its reach and generating more volume as well as value-driven sales. “With less time for consumers to cook and obtain more culinary knowhow, there’s now a new and growing demand for technology that can o� er built-in cooking shortcuts as well as mealtime rescues. The new generation of a� ordable 60cm ovens is designed to o� er must-have gadgetry for everyone who cooks, not just cookaholics, and is bringing mealtime diversity to more homes.

“Multi-function ovens are now o� ering even greater assistance for cooks, coming with as many as 10 programmes including specialist pizza and baking functions as well as extra cleaning features, providing support from the start to the end of everyday mealtimes. Appliances are now equipped with catalytic liners and removable glass doors for ease of cleaning, and self-cleaning functionality is also trickling its way down into the mid mass market, with more a� ordable mid-range

Performance built in

“Figures suggest that built-in sales

in the MDA market are the highest on record,

accounting for £820million and an overall rise of 9.2%

(GfK Jan-Nov 2015)”Salah Sun, Built-in Cooking Product

Manager at Beko plc

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED20

BUILT-IN COOKING

In 2012, the built-in cooking market was coasting on a horizontal trajectory as the housing market and new-build sector languished in the depths of depression. Fast forward to 2015/16 and the picture could not be more different

Swiss perfection for your home

FINE DINING, YOUR PACE OR MINE!Top chefs like Adam Gray appreciate V-ZUG’S simple andindividual solutions. The new Combi-Steam MSLQ is the world’s fi rst domestic appliance to combine three heating methods in one: multifunction, steam and microwave. Cooking fresh healthy food quickly has never been so much fun: www.vzug.com/queensteamDiscover our cooking experience at Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings,42 Northampton Road, London, EC1R 0HU.For more information email [email protected]

Page 21: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Whirlpool’s Charles Bernstein, Category Manager – Built-in,

quotes statistics from the NHBC which show there were 75% more new homes registered in 2015 than in 2009, a dramatic increase which has undoubtedly had a positive e� ect on sales of built-in cooking appliances and the adoption of advanced cooking technologies.

“In the hob sector, induction has seen real growth in sales as consumers begin to appreciate the tremendous e� iciency, speed, safety, controllability and economical cooking on o� er,” says Bernstein. “According to figures from GfK, the increase in popularity of induction technology, flexible cooking zones and smart technology with remote connectivity have all been busy transforming the hob from a companion purchase to a more considered one.”

Bernstein points out that the gas hob has remained the traditional consumer choice for many years;

however, as consumers become increasingly aware of induction as an energy-e� icient and environmentally friendly alternative, gas is being “squeezed out” as induction becomes more competitive.

POSITIVE OUTLOOKAccording to Owain Harrison, UK head of sales and marketing Built-in, Hoover Candy Baumatic, recent industry figures show that the total cooking market was up by 12.2% overall year on year, with volume sales of built-in ovens achieving 17.8% growth, while the hobs category increased by 12% and hoods by 13.6% (Source: AMDEA – Feb 2016). “These positive figures present a very healthy picture of the built-in cooking sector and one that we believe is set to continue,” says Harrison.

According to GfK, in the April 2015 – March 2016 period, ovens enjoyed sustained growth with value sales rising 15% to £312 million, making it one of the top performing categories.

Single ovens accounted for more than 60% of the category and double ovens also captured share, with value sales rising 20%. GfK believes this follows the move towards larger capacity appliances.

Ovens hold a 43% share of the total cooking market, and one area that has contributed to this is pyrolytic cleaning. Pyrolytic ovens have experienced double-digit growth every year since their introduction, despite an average price of £609, which is considered to be more than twice that of an oven without cleaning capabilities. Sales over the aforementioned twelve-month period improved by 35% in value, and pyrolytic now accounts for 15% of the ovens market.

Sharp Home Appliances’ Rita Balestrazzi asserts that the built-in cooking sector is generating some “serious sales momentum” and is finally realising its full market potential, attaining unprecedented mainstream appeal, vastly

extending its reach and generating more volume as well as value-driven sales. “With less time for consumers to cook and obtain more culinary knowhow, there’s now a new and growing demand for technology that can o� er built-in cooking shortcuts as well as mealtime rescues. The new generation of a� ordable 60cm ovens is designed to o� er must-have gadgetry for everyone who cooks, not just cookaholics, and is bringing mealtime diversity to more homes.

“Multi-function ovens are now o� ering even greater assistance for cooks, coming with as many as 10 programmes including specialist pizza and baking functions as well as extra cleaning features, providing support from the start to the end of everyday mealtimes. Appliances are now equipped with catalytic liners and removable glass doors for ease of cleaning, and self-cleaning functionality is also trickling its way down into the mid mass market, with more a� ordable mid-range

Performance built in

“Figures suggest that built-in sales

in the MDA market are the highest on record,

accounting for £820million and an overall rise of 9.2%

(GfK Jan-Nov 2015)”Salah Sun, Built-in Cooking Product

Manager at Beko plc

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED20

BUILT-IN COOKING

In 2012, the built-in cooking market was coasting on a horizontal trajectory as the housing market and new-build sector languished in the depths of depression. Fast forward to 2015/16 and the picture could not be more different

Swiss perfection for your home

FINE DINING, YOUR PACE OR MINE!Top chefs like Adam Gray appreciate V-ZUG’S simple andindividual solutions. The new Combi-Steam MSLQ is the world’s fi rst domestic appliance to combine three heating methods in one: multifunction, steam and microwave. Cooking fresh healthy food quickly has never been so much fun: www.vzug.com/queensteamDiscover our cooking experience at Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings,42 Northampton Road, London, EC1R 0HU.For more information email [email protected]

Page 22: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Whirlpool’s Fusion range comprises ovens, microwaves, warming drawers and a coffee machine

ovens now featuring pyrolytic programmes or, alternatively, VapClean functionality.

“Mid-range ovens are also o� ering some aspirational sales appeal for passionate cooks, coming with a selection of pro-style gadgetry, which includes turnspits for larger meat joints and digital meat probes that can o� er greater cooking precision. And despite their increasing a� ordability, these appliances are becoming much more design led, with finishes in black and stainless steel and animated graphic LCD displays which are easy to read and use.”

CONFIDENCE“It’s a great time for built-in at the moment with strong year-on-year growth continuing across all the product areas, and this is reflected in the breadth of new products coming into the market,” says Alex Hinton, Head of Category for Built-In at Glen Dimplex Home Appliances.

“We are seeing strong performances both in the new-build sector and, as people find themselves in a more financially stable position, also in the replacement market, with the areas

delivering the greatest increases being induction hobs and multi-function cooking.”

Hinton notes that growth in the popularity of range cooking and the extra capacity it provides is leading to innovation and new product introductions in the built-in sector: a first for the market – traditionally, it is the freestanding sector that has benefitted from adopting many of the features seen in built-in appliances. GDHA expects to see interest this year in larger cavity ovens, typically 75 litres or above, combined with multi-function capabilities, quality accessories, and features such as wide-width oven trays, so� -closing doors and touch-control digital displays. “These products will provide a great alternative to those looking for more capacity without going down

the freestanding or range cooker route,” says Hinton.

Electrolux’s Sophie Davidson, Head of Product UK and Ireland, says the

company is experiencing a continuing increase in sales

of steam cooking appliances. “Steam oven appliances have

seen excellent growth in the last three years, up 393%, especially in the past year. This breaks down to a +207.7% increase on last year, to 18.5K units.

“More and more consumers are becoming switched on to the health and flavour benefits provided by steam cooking. It is the easiest way to get great results. Once a niche product, steam is now a must-have ‘accessory’ for consumers, in order to cook delicious food that retains flavours brilliantly. Using steam is also a healthy way to cook, since fat doesn’t have to be added to keep food moist and because steam’s lower temperatures help to preserve nutrients.”

OPPORTUNITYChris Honer, MD of Britannia Built-in, believes consumers are looking for appliances that reduce cooking times in order to fit cooking into their busy lifestyles, as opposed to

adapting their lifestyle to fit in time to cook.

“Assisted cooking programmes and steam operated functions already appear on many built-in appliances, and this is set to increase,” he comments. “With built-in featuring more and more in new-build properties, and growth in the replacement market, retailers are faced with a fantastic opportunity to sell consumers appliances which fit their existing space but o� er them more for their money.”

The opportunity presented to retailers selling built-in appliances is well recognised by the industry and has resulted in the move towards shop-in-shops and dedicated display areas for products. Hoover Candy Ltd is one manufacturer which has capitalised on the shi� : in 2015 it created a completely separate built-in sales and marketing department to represent its Hoover, Candy and Baumatic brands. “By centralising our sales teams, whilst focusing on the target audiences in terms of their separate marketing propositions, we have already witnessed a rise in the uptake of our di� erent appliance ranges, specifically within the independent electrical sector,” says Owain Harrison.

“Cooking walls are proving popular

in the modern kitchen for consumers who are

looking for a neat finish to complete their design”

Danny Lay, managing director, Caple

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED22

BUILT-IN COOKING

design.livingTel: 0117 938 1900 www.caple.co.uk

Caple appliances combine intuitive technology, functional engineering andcontemporary design, making them easy on the eye and easy to use.

Image: Single multifunction oven, C2236

Get Connected CAPLE_FP_AD_MAY2016_210x297.qxp_Layout 1 26/04/2016 10:39 Page 1

Page 23: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Whirlpool’s Fusion range comprises ovens, microwaves, warming drawers and a coffee machine

ovens now featuring pyrolytic programmes or, alternatively, VapClean functionality.

“Mid-range ovens are also o� ering some aspirational sales appeal for passionate cooks, coming with a selection of pro-style gadgetry, which includes turnspits for larger meat joints and digital meat probes that can o� er greater cooking precision. And despite their increasing a� ordability, these appliances are becoming much more design led, with finishes in black and stainless steel and animated graphic LCD displays which are easy to read and use.”

CONFIDENCE“It’s a great time for built-in at the moment with strong year-on-year growth continuing across all the product areas, and this is reflected in the breadth of new products coming into the market,” says Alex Hinton, Head of Category for Built-In at Glen Dimplex Home Appliances.

“We are seeing strong performances both in the new-build sector and, as people find themselves in a more financially stable position, also in the replacement market, with the areas

delivering the greatest increases being induction hobs and multi-function cooking.”

Hinton notes that growth in the popularity of range cooking and the extra capacity it provides is leading to innovation and new product introductions in the built-in sector: a first for the market – traditionally, it is the freestanding sector that has benefitted from adopting many of the features seen in built-in appliances. GDHA expects to see interest this year in larger cavity ovens, typically 75 litres or above, combined with multi-function capabilities, quality accessories, and features such as wide-width oven trays, so� -closing doors and touch-control digital displays. “These products will provide a great alternative to those looking for more capacity without going down

the freestanding or range cooker route,” says Hinton.

Electrolux’s Sophie Davidson, Head of Product UK and Ireland, says the

company is experiencing a continuing increase in sales

of steam cooking appliances. “Steam oven appliances have

seen excellent growth in the last three years, up 393%, especially in the past year. This breaks down to a +207.7% increase on last year, to 18.5K units.

“More and more consumers are becoming switched on to the health and flavour benefits provided by steam cooking. It is the easiest way to get great results. Once a niche product, steam is now a must-have ‘accessory’ for consumers, in order to cook delicious food that retains flavours brilliantly. Using steam is also a healthy way to cook, since fat doesn’t have to be added to keep food moist and because steam’s lower temperatures help to preserve nutrients.”

OPPORTUNITYChris Honer, MD of Britannia Built-in, believes consumers are looking for appliances that reduce cooking times in order to fit cooking into their busy lifestyles, as opposed to

adapting their lifestyle to fit in time to cook.

“Assisted cooking programmes and steam operated functions already appear on many built-in appliances, and this is set to increase,” he comments. “With built-in featuring more and more in new-build properties, and growth in the replacement market, retailers are faced with a fantastic opportunity to sell consumers appliances which fit their existing space but o� er them more for their money.”

The opportunity presented to retailers selling built-in appliances is well recognised by the industry and has resulted in the move towards shop-in-shops and dedicated display areas for products. Hoover Candy Ltd is one manufacturer which has capitalised on the shi� : in 2015 it created a completely separate built-in sales and marketing department to represent its Hoover, Candy and Baumatic brands. “By centralising our sales teams, whilst focusing on the target audiences in terms of their separate marketing propositions, we have already witnessed a rise in the uptake of our di� erent appliance ranges, specifically within the independent electrical sector,” says Owain Harrison.

“Cooking walls are proving popular

in the modern kitchen for consumers who are

looking for a neat finish to complete their design”

Danny Lay, managing director, Caple

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED22

BUILT-IN COOKING

design.livingTel: 0117 938 1900 www.caple.co.uk

Caple appliances combine intuitive technology, functional engineering andcontemporary design, making them easy on the eye and easy to use.

Image: Single multifunction oven, C2236

Get Connected CAPLE_FP_AD_MAY2016_210x297.qxp_Layout 1 26/04/2016 10:39 Page 1

Page 24: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

“This timing also aligned with a major shi� in the retail marketplace, where many key independents have made built-in cooking appliances a more important aspect of their o� er, turning over prime retail space from lower margin, high-volume consumer electronics to actual kitchen displays featuring higher-margin ovens, hobs and hoods within lifestyle settings – and it is working.”

CONNECTIVITYCommenting on the future of the built-in cooking sector, Simon Freear, country manager for Amica UK and Ireland, says: “There is much spoken about connectivity for cooking appliances and I believe the potential of the connected kitchen/home is huge. The consumer is tantalisingly close to fully embracing the technologies and all the benefits it can o� er. What will slow the progress is the lack of availability of new-build homes fitted with the infrastructure, along with the willingness of consumers to adapt and invest in the connectivity setup in their homes to bring the potential about sooner rather than later.

“The interaction of ovens with web-based clubs might add a social element to a limitless database of recipes, menus and cooking tips; for example, with consumers using social media like Periscope to live stream their own cooking skills.”

Amica already o� ers online capability on built-in ovens and Freear says this makes a great talking point in-store, “while at the same time providing an opportunity to show all the features and benefits available to consumers fascinated by the controls and easy-to-use smartphone-type intuitive scrolling for temperatures and programmes.”

The latest advances in Whirlpool’s appliances are those powered by 6th Sense Live® technology which enables each product to be connected using Wi-Fi and controlled remotely. “Consumers are increasingly looking for products that they can operate and interact with as easy as possible, and with the Internet of Things growing all the time, connectivity in the kitchen is the latest big thing,” says Bernstein.

BRAIN POWER“With consumers’ increasingly busy lifestyles, intelligent cooking appliances that make meals easier to prepare are increasingly appealing. As households demand and need better performance in less time, while expecting energy savings as a given, tasks are becoming frequently delegated to the appliance. It is therefore essential that the appliance also does the thinking: monitoring, adapting and controlling the

processes to ensure excellent results when cooking.

“With the vast majority of consumers connected to the Internet, and with smartphones and tablets seen as necessities rather than luxuries, the consumer is ready and able to benefit from connectivity in the kitchen. Far from a gimmick, or an enterprise to simply increase brand positioning, connected appliances are the way forward, but people will be looking for their appliances to o� er more in the future. Saving time and money is crucial, and the advantage of controlling appliances by smartphone or tablet, particularly when they are away from home, means the homeowner can benefit from the ultimate in ease of use and functionality.”

Thomas Johansson, Design Director at Electrolux, maintains the Internet of Things and the connected home are now becoming an important micro-trend and a “game changer” in the kitchen appliance

business. “We foresee a future in which appliances and new innovative solutions are connected, intelligent, and seamlessly

integrated into the daily lives of users to make their

lives easier: a future where the kitchen is the hub of the healthy

home, promoting and inspiring a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.”

Over the next year AEG plans to launch an array of connected appliances in its core markets: the kitchen, the laundry room and the home comfort area. The Electrolux Group has already unveiled the “world’s first” steam oven with integrated camera – the AEG ProCombi Plus Smart oven – which is due for launch in October 2016. The ‘My AEG’ app will be able to connect with this intelligent steam oven with integrated CookView® camera and Wi-Fi access, to obtain information on the cooking process, giving users updates and control of the process, wherever they are. The app also provides tips and support with recipes and oven settings.

Amica’s Freear concludes by o� ering a note of caution regarding new technologies and the importance of communicating their complexities to customers: “Cooking categories are full of technologies across all sectors of the market, but if the consumer does not understand them, how do they know they want them?”

home, promoting and inspiring a

“A consumer may be looking to

purchase an oven, but with the right display setups and the retailer’s thorough knowledge of the products,

they may leave with a hob too”

Stuart Benson, Sales Director Gorenje UK

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED24

BUILT-IN COOKING Sharp Home Appliances’ induction hob maintains the clean lines in this kitchen setting

NO STEAM STEAMBAKED

CRISPY, GOLDEN BAKE

FOR A

USE AEG STEAMBAKE.

The new range of AEG multifunction single ovens with SteamBake

are the secret to a great bake. By pouring 100ml of water into the

cavity bottom, and pressing the SteamBake button, Yorkshire

Puddings will always be golden brown, muffins will be soft and

moist and bread will rise higher and have a crispier crust.

Only the new range of AEG multifunction single ovens come

with SteamBake as standard.

Speak to your account manager to find out more about SteamBake.

MULTIFUNCTION NOW WITH STEAMBAKE.

05996 AB Get Connected_T_A4+3.indd 1 25/04/2016 12:22

Page 25: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

“This timing also aligned with a major shi� in the retail marketplace, where many key independents have made built-in cooking appliances a more important aspect of their o� er, turning over prime retail space from lower margin, high-volume consumer electronics to actual kitchen displays featuring higher-margin ovens, hobs and hoods within lifestyle settings – and it is working.”

CONNECTIVITYCommenting on the future of the built-in cooking sector, Simon Freear, country manager for Amica UK and Ireland, says: “There is much spoken about connectivity for cooking appliances and I believe the potential of the connected kitchen/home is huge. The consumer is tantalisingly close to fully embracing the technologies and all the benefits it can o� er. What will slow the progress is the lack of availability of new-build homes fitted with the infrastructure, along with the willingness of consumers to adapt and invest in the connectivity setup in their homes to bring the potential about sooner rather than later.

“The interaction of ovens with web-based clubs might add a social element to a limitless database of recipes, menus and cooking tips; for example, with consumers using social media like Periscope to live stream their own cooking skills.”

Amica already o� ers online capability on built-in ovens and Freear says this makes a great talking point in-store, “while at the same time providing an opportunity to show all the features and benefits available to consumers fascinated by the controls and easy-to-use smartphone-type intuitive scrolling for temperatures and programmes.”

The latest advances in Whirlpool’s appliances are those powered by 6th Sense Live® technology which enables each product to be connected using Wi-Fi and controlled remotely. “Consumers are increasingly looking for products that they can operate and interact with as easy as possible, and with the Internet of Things growing all the time, connectivity in the kitchen is the latest big thing,” says Bernstein.

BRAIN POWER“With consumers’ increasingly busy lifestyles, intelligent cooking appliances that make meals easier to prepare are increasingly appealing. As households demand and need better performance in less time, while expecting energy savings as a given, tasks are becoming frequently delegated to the appliance. It is therefore essential that the appliance also does the thinking: monitoring, adapting and controlling the

processes to ensure excellent results when cooking.

“With the vast majority of consumers connected to the Internet, and with smartphones and tablets seen as necessities rather than luxuries, the consumer is ready and able to benefit from connectivity in the kitchen. Far from a gimmick, or an enterprise to simply increase brand positioning, connected appliances are the way forward, but people will be looking for their appliances to o� er more in the future. Saving time and money is crucial, and the advantage of controlling appliances by smartphone or tablet, particularly when they are away from home, means the homeowner can benefit from the ultimate in ease of use and functionality.”

Thomas Johansson, Design Director at Electrolux, maintains the Internet of Things and the connected home are now becoming an important micro-trend and a “game changer” in the kitchen appliance

business. “We foresee a future in which appliances and new innovative solutions are connected, intelligent, and seamlessly

integrated into the daily lives of users to make their

lives easier: a future where the kitchen is the hub of the healthy

home, promoting and inspiring a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.”

Over the next year AEG plans to launch an array of connected appliances in its core markets: the kitchen, the laundry room and the home comfort area. The Electrolux Group has already unveiled the “world’s first” steam oven with integrated camera – the AEG ProCombi Plus Smart oven – which is due for launch in October 2016. The ‘My AEG’ app will be able to connect with this intelligent steam oven with integrated CookView® camera and Wi-Fi access, to obtain information on the cooking process, giving users updates and control of the process, wherever they are. The app also provides tips and support with recipes and oven settings.

Amica’s Freear concludes by o� ering a note of caution regarding new technologies and the importance of communicating their complexities to customers: “Cooking categories are full of technologies across all sectors of the market, but if the consumer does not understand them, how do they know they want them?”

“A consumer may be looking to

purchase an oven, but with the right display setups and the retailer’s thorough knowledge of the products,

they may leave with a hob too”

Stuart Benson, Sales Director Gorenje UK

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED24

BUILT-IN COOKING Sharp Home Appliances’ induction hob maintains the clean lines in this kitchen setting

NO STEAM STEAMBAKED

CRISPY, GOLDEN BAKE

FOR A

USE AEG STEAMBAKE.

The new range of AEG multifunction single ovens with SteamBake

are the secret to a great bake. By pouring 100ml of water into the

cavity bottom, and pressing the SteamBake button, Yorkshire

Puddings will always be golden brown, muffins will be soft and

moist and bread will rise higher and have a crispier crust.

Only the new range of AEG multifunction single ovens come

with SteamBake as standard.

Speak to your account manager to find out more about SteamBake.

MULTIFUNCTION NOW WITH STEAMBAKE.

05996 AB Get Connected_T_A4+3.indd 1 25/04/2016 12:22

Page 26: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Amica’s range of double-oven freestanding cookers comprises 60cm or 50cm A/A energy class models with the choice of induction, ceramic, gas or electric hobs and great internal capacities.

Features include telescopic guides, a minute minder or programmer, flame failure safety valves (gas) and triple glazed cool-front oven doors. Available in matt black, stainless steel and white with 2-year warranty.

The 60cm double oven with induction hob (pictured) has 4 zones with touch-slider controls and a digital programmer.

Main oven: multifunction x 8 with fan; catalytic liners; light; 5 shelf positions; 2 wire shelves; 1 shallow Procook non-stick shelf. Static top oven: 2000W electric variable grill; catalytic liners; light; 3 shelf positions; 1 grill pan set; 1 wire shelf.

www.amica-international.co.uk | 01425 461600

Freestanding with style...

Braun IdentityCollection Food Processor

The powerful 1000W Braun IdentityCollection Food Processor (FP5160) is an ultra-compact model that comes with several accessories, including a centrifugal juicer, jug blender, whipping tool, citrus press, metal slicing and grating discs. The extensive o� ering ensures that there is an accessory for every task.

With reliability guaranteed it’s simple and easy for consumers to use, with intelligent preset programmes, allowing them to simply select a programme (blending or kneading) and the machine will set the perfect speed and timing. The Braun IdentityCollection Food Processor also features a DualControl system which provides variable preset speeds to ensure fast and even results.

Braun Identity Food Processor (FP5160) (RRP £189.99)

www.braunhousehold.co.uk 0239 239 2392

New display solutions from Bosch

At the recent Euronics Showcase 2016, Bosch launched eye-catching new display solutions including our tabletop stand.

The designs are based around Bosch’s range of garment care and breakfast and beverage products and o� er a unique way to display them in store.

In addition, the information points mean these solutions will showcase the features and benefits for the products displayed. James Aldridge, SDA Buyer for Euronics, says: “The displays are a huge step forward in the way small domestic appliance (SDA) products are being displayed and I’m sure they will be a great success with our members.”

For further information: Rebecca Ness, Trade Marketing Manager - CP. Email: [email protected]

products displayed. James Aldridge, SDA Buyer for Euronics, says: “The displays are a huge step forward in the way small domestic appliance (SDA) products are being displayed and I’m sure they will be a great success with our members.”

For further information: Rebecca Ness, Trade Marketing Manager - CP. Email: [email protected]

De Dietrich DOP6567DG oven

A stunning blend of form and function, the DOP6567DG built-in multi pyrolytic oven, part of De Dietrich’s new Dark Grey collection, boasts a 60-litre capacity, animated display and A-10% energy rating. The high-tech appliance with 3-year warranty o� ers 14 automatic cooking programmes in ICS mode – ICS automatically determines the appropriate cooking function, temperature and time – a choice of 11 oven functions and a rotisserie with drip tray for healthy cooking.

Additional features include an intelligent filter that removes odours and smoke produced during the cooking process, Pyroclean function, a cool door with four glass panels, digital touch-controls and digital temperature control.

Dimensions built-in (mm): H585 x W560 x D550

AB Distributors: www.abdistributors.co.uk

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED26

THE GOURMET QUARTER

The Quarter GDHA sets its sights on 50cm sectorLeading UK cooking appliance manufacturer Glen Dimplex Home Appliances (GDHA) is targeting significant growth in the 50cm freestanding cooking sector a� er unveiling a suite of new products across its Belling (pictured), New World and Valor brands.

The brands already perform exceptionally well in this sector, achieving 25% market share last year, and the newly extended range of 15 gas and electric products o� ers competitive pricing and improved product quality.

The new collection covers all specifications, from an entry-level single cavity model up to

generously sized ceramic double ovens with extra features across both gas and electric. All products feature easy to clean ceramic interiors.

www.gdha.com | 0844 2484149

SEVERIN available from fHomeSpares.co.uk

Made with German precision, the Severin fruit dryer has become one of the most popular products in our entire range.

The move towards “clean eating” has propelled the hum-ble dehydrator to the top of foodie wish lists – from fitness fanatics who want to make their own healthy kale crisps to busy mums who want easy–to-make fruit snacks for their little ones.

This lightweight easy-to-store machine dries fruit, vegetables and herbs over five grates that can be stacked up or used separately. Just pop in your chosen food, switch on and leave overnight for delicious, healthy fat-free snacks!

www.HomeSparesTrade.co.uk

Coffee the smart way...Premium Swiss bean-to-cup co� ee machine manufacturer JURA presents the ultimate co� ee experience

At Exclusively Electrical 2016, JURA is launching its new E8 Chrome machine, featuring a Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.©) that optimises extraction time and a one-touch function that provides simple operation.

This machine also allows for the setting of individual co� ee preferences. It is easy to care for, with its Intelligent Water System (I.W.S.®), and also features a Zero-Energy Switch which provides a saving of up to 40% in energy.

The JURA E8 is compatible with the JURA Smart Connect, which uses Bluetooth to wirelessly operate your co� ee machine.

https://uk.jura.com

Kenwood kCook MultiThe innovative new Kenwood kCook Multi, launching this September, is an intuitive one-pot meal preparation gadget, perfect for batch cooking, dinner parties and family meals.

This versatile appliance chops, stirs and cooks dishes in the same 2.6-litre bowl, with six functional preset programmes: One Pot, Frying, Sauce/Soup, Slow Cook, Steaming and Rinse. Cooking time ranges up to 8 hours.

It comes with a unique two-disc attachment and 360-degree rotating arm that chops and slices ingredients before cooking, or items can be sliced direct into the pot during the cooking process.

All parts are dishwasher safe and an app providing over 200 recipe ideas, all of which can be made using the kCook

Multi, is available.Kenwood kCook

Multi (CCL400WH) (RRP £549.99).

www.kenwoodworld.com/uk | 0239 239 2392

C R E A T E M O R E

Vitamix® S30 – high-performanceblending widens its reach Exclusively Electricals, 14th-15th June 2016, Business Design Centre, London, Stand EE08

Vitamix®’s S30 high-performance personal blender is now available in a reconfigured o� ering.

Featuring the versatility and durability synonymous with the Vitamix name, the S30 is perfect for blending smaller batches of smoothies, soups, sauces and spreads. It is equipped with an individual container and a 1.2-litre jug, making it simple to quickly blend healthy on-the-go smoothies.

The appliance boasts a powerful 790W motor, Variable Speed Control and Pulse, a metal drive-system and signature laser-cut stainless steel blades.

The S30 is available in Black, White, Brushed Stainless, Red, Cream, Daybreak Blue and Sour Apple Green with a new SRP starting at £349 (includes blending cookbook and 7-year warranty). www.vitamix.co.uk/S30

27MAY 2016 GET CONNECTED

THE GOURMET QUARTER

Page 27: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Amica’s range of double-oven freestanding cookers comprises 60cm or 50cm A/A energy class models with the choice of induction, ceramic, gas or electric hobs and great internal capacities.

Features include telescopic guides, a minute minder or programmer, flame failure safety valves (gas) and triple glazed cool-front oven doors. Available in matt black, stainless steel and white with 2-year warranty.

The 60cm double oven with induction hob (pictured) has 4 zones with touch-slider controls and a digital programmer.

Main oven: multifunction x 8 with fan; catalytic liners; light; 5 shelf positions; 2 wire shelves; 1 shallow Procook non-stick shelf. Static top oven: 2000W electric variable grill; catalytic liners; light; 3 shelf positions; 1 grill pan set; 1 wire shelf.

www.amica-international.co.uk | 01425 461600

Freestanding with style...

Braun IdentityCollection Food Processor

The powerful 1000W Braun IdentityCollection Food Processor (FP5160) is an ultra-compact model that comes with several accessories, including a centrifugal juicer, jug blender, whipping tool, citrus press, metal slicing and grating discs. The extensive o� ering ensures that there is an accessory for every task.

With reliability guaranteed it’s simple and easy for consumers to use, with intelligent preset programmes, allowing them to simply select a programme (blending or kneading) and the machine will set the perfect speed and timing. The Braun IdentityCollection Food Processor also features a DualControl system which provides variable preset speeds to ensure fast and even results.

Braun Identity Food Processor (FP5160) (RRP £189.99)

www.braunhousehold.co.uk 0239 239 2392

New display solutions from Bosch

At the recent Euronics Showcase 2016, Bosch launched eye-catching new display solutions including our tabletop stand.

The designs are based around Bosch’s range of garment care and breakfast and beverage products and o� er a unique way to display them in store.

In addition, the information points mean these solutions will showcase the features and benefits for the products displayed. James Aldridge, SDA Buyer for Euronics, says: “The displays are a huge step forward in the way small domestic appliance (SDA) products are being displayed and I’m sure they will be a great success with our members.”

For further information: Rebecca Ness, Trade Marketing Manager - CP. Email: [email protected]

De Dietrich DOP6567DG oven

A stunning blend of form and function, the DOP6567DG built-in multi pyrolytic oven, part of De Dietrich’s new Dark Grey collection, boasts a 60-litre capacity, animated display and A-10% energy rating. The high-tech appliance with 3-year warranty o� ers 14 automatic cooking programmes in ICS mode – ICS automatically determines the appropriate cooking function, temperature and time – a choice of 11 oven functions and a rotisserie with drip tray for healthy cooking.

Additional features include an intelligent filter that removes odours and smoke produced during the cooking process, Pyroclean function, a cool door with four glass panels, digital touch-controls and digital temperature control.

Dimensions built-in (mm): H585 x W560 x D550

AB Distributors: www.abdistributors.co.uk

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED26

THE GOURMET QUARTER

The Quarter GDHA sets its sights on 50cm sectorLeading UK cooking appliance manufacturer Glen Dimplex Home Appliances (GDHA) is targeting significant growth in the 50cm freestanding cooking sector a� er unveiling a suite of new products across its Belling (pictured), New World and Valor brands.

The brands already perform exceptionally well in this sector, achieving 25% market share last year, and the newly extended range of 15 gas and electric products o� ers competitive pricing and improved product quality.

The new collection covers all specifications, from an entry-level single cavity model up to

generously sized ceramic double ovens with extra features across both gas and electric. All products feature easy to clean ceramic interiors.

www.gdha.com | 0844 2484149

SEVERIN available from fHomeSpares.co.uk

Made with German precision, the Severin fruit dryer has become one of the most popular products in our entire range.

The move towards “clean eating” has propelled the hum-ble dehydrator to the top of foodie wish lists – from fitness fanatics who want to make their own healthy kale crisps to busy mums who want easy–to-make fruit snacks for their little ones.

This lightweight easy-to-store machine dries fruit, vegetables and herbs over five grates that can be stacked up or used separately. Just pop in your chosen food, switch on and leave overnight for delicious, healthy fat-free snacks!

www.HomeSparesTrade.co.uk

Coffee the smart way...Premium Swiss bean-to-cup co� ee machine manufacturer JURA presents the ultimate co� ee experience

At Exclusively Electrical 2016, JURA is launching its new E8 Chrome machine, featuring a Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.©) that optimises extraction time and a one-touch function that provides simple operation.

This machine also allows for the setting of individual co� ee preferences. It is easy to care for, with its Intelligent Water System (I.W.S.®), and also features a Zero-Energy Switch which provides a saving of up to 40% in energy.

The JURA E8 is compatible with the JURA Smart Connect, which uses Bluetooth to wirelessly operate your co� ee machine.

https://uk.jura.com

Kenwood kCook MultiThe innovative new Kenwood kCook Multi, launching this September, is an intuitive one-pot meal preparation gadget, perfect for batch cooking, dinner parties and family meals.

This versatile appliance chops, stirs and cooks dishes in the same 2.6-litre bowl, with six functional preset programmes: One Pot, Frying, Sauce/Soup, Slow Cook, Steaming and Rinse. Cooking time ranges up to 8 hours.

It comes with a unique two-disc attachment and 360-degree rotating arm that chops and slices ingredients before cooking, or items can be sliced direct into the pot during the cooking process.

All parts are dishwasher safe and an app providing over 200 recipe ideas, all of which can be made using the kCook

Multi, is available.Kenwood kCook

Multi (CCL400WH) (RRP £549.99).

www.kenwoodworld.com/uk | 0239 239 2392

C R E A T E M O R E

Vitamix® S30 – high-performanceblending widens its reach Exclusively Electricals, 14th-15th June 2016, Business Design Centre, London, Stand EE08

Vitamix®’s S30 high-performance personal blender is now available in a reconfigured o� ering.

Featuring the versatility and durability synonymous with the Vitamix name, the S30 is perfect for blending smaller batches of smoothies, soups, sauces and spreads. It is equipped with an individual container and a 1.2-litre jug, making it simple to quickly blend healthy on-the-go smoothies.

The appliance boasts a powerful 790W motor, Variable Speed Control and Pulse, a metal drive-system and signature laser-cut stainless steel blades.

The S30 is available in Black, White, Brushed Stainless, Red, Cream, Daybreak Blue and Sour Apple Green with a new SRP starting at £349 (includes blending cookbook and 7-year warranty). www.vitamix.co.uk/S30

27MAY 2016 GET CONNECTED

THE GOURMET QUARTER

Page 28: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Built-in appliances may be seen as the more stylish, aspirational and technologically advanced contenders in the cooking market, but freestanding cookers continue to feature in many manufacturers’ product portfolios as the sector has reinvented itself with updated, modern designs, multi-function capabilities and a greater choice of hob types

Even at the more entry-level of the market, freestanding

cookers are performing well, according to Servis’s Rita Balestrazzi, who advises that the category achieved a year-on-year volume increase of 19.6% in volume sales to January 2016. “60cm twin-cavity gas cookers are quickly becoming recognised as the ultimate all-in-one cooking commodity, o� ering a fast and responsive heating method that’s also extremely cost-e� ective,” she comments.

Balestrazzi maintains that step-up models have driven 13% year-on-year value growth in the 60cm category. She points out that one of the attractions for consumers is that products can o� er a fi� h more cooking room than even the largest single ovens. Also, “they slot perfectly into the smaller kitchens of modern apartments and townhouses.”

Glen Dimplex Home Appliances has made a significant investment in the 50cm freestanding sector. It’s an area the company has always performed strongly in and believes there is scope for further growth.

“We are expecting significant demand for these products as they are well made and keenly priced, o� ering great revenue opportunities for retailers,” says Andrew Freeman, Head of Category for freestanding.

INDUCTIONFreeman maintains that induction continues to be a “huge story” and, apart from built-in and range cooking, it is the fastest growing cooking sector. “As the cost of the technology has reduced, induction has now become much more a� ordable on standard freestanding cookers, which has opened it up to whole new sectors and audiences.

“From a manufacturer and retailer perspective, induction adds real value to the freestanding market by encouraging consumers to trade up

from ceramic, and there is now a strong o� ering of 60cm products available on shop floors and online across major retailers and

independents.”GDHA has a strong freestanding

o� ering across its Stoves, Belling, New World and Valor brands, which Freeman says is frequently being strengthened. “Since launching new touch-control models across the brands we have seen a 25% increase in sales and are expecting a further 30% growth this year,” he adds.

For consumers coming to the market for a new freestanding cooker the overall considerations are fuel choice, cooking capacity, the look of the appliance and price, according to Simon Freear, country manager for Amica UK and Ireland. “Cooking products are unique, in as much they are the fun element in the kitchen, the one place that consumers, if they like cooking, enjoy the interaction. One of the reasons our new freestanding double ovens have taken o� the

Still standing

way they have is due to the generous internal capacity. Their sister product, a single cavity version, is the best selling in its category for similar capacity reasons.”

RANGE COOKERSFreestanding cooking is, of course, a market of two parts – the slot-in cooker, a solution for the standard 60cm gap between kitchen units, o� en bought as a replacement product, and the style-statement range cooker, an appliance that adds considerable value to the market, and which also now comes in a 60cm width.

Britannia Living expanded its portfolio earlier this year with the launch of its first mini range cookers – the Delphi Professional 60cm collection. The two new freestanding models, which feature a multifunction 55-litre net capacity oven, are available in dual fuel or, for those looking for a greener option, with an induction hotplate. The new products deliver the professional aesthetic of Britannia’s Delphi range cookers and are suitable for those who aspire to range-cooker ownership but lack the necessary kitchen space for a full-size model.

Caple managing director Danny Lay believes on-trend styles in range cookers nowadays tend to be modern. “Stainless steel and black glass versions look particularly chic. It’s these sleek aesthetics which blend well with the traditional elements we all love about range cookers, such as double-cavity cooking space and plenty of hob space.

“The most popular range cookers tend to have high energy ratings and time-saving features which make life easier in the kitchen. Range cookers with multi-functional ovens are high on the agenda. These appliances are in demand where cooking is key to the end user’s lifestyle.”

ADDING VALUEIn terms of maximising sales opportunities and add-on revenues, Chris Honer, Managing Director of Britannia, says retailers should focus on the quality finish of products and the advanced extras that are available to make life easier for consumers.

Britannia has incorporated extras such as a programmable meat probe and rotisserie oven in its larger sized models, and also o� ers a Chef Top, which enables users to cook Teppan Yaki style. A cast iron wok support accessory and griddle are also available, providing consumers with more cooking options, while supporting retailers with added value.

“Induction adds real value

to the freestanding market by

encouraging consumers to

trade up...”

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED28

FREESTANDING COOKING

60cm electric cooker from Servis

Page 29: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

ONE POT SAUCE / SOUP STEAM

Healthy, homemade meals, made much easier with Kenwood

C R E A T E M O R E

It’s time to say goodbye to the ready meals, and hello to tastier and healthier meals with the kCook – a cooking food processor and steamer that chops, stirs and cooks your dinner for you.

The Kenwood kCook provides ‘one pot’ cooking, allowing flavoursome casseroles, fresh soups and various sauces to be prepared at the touch of a few buttons. It will even steam your vegetables and fish in the inclusive basket for an even healthier family meal.

With the choice of two bowl tools, ingredients can be chopped to the desired texture before switching to the stirring tool to ensure the dish is cooked evenly.

Contact your local Sales Manager for more information

Tel: +44 239 239 2392kenwoodworld.com/ukKenwood Ltd, New Lane, Havant, Hampshire PO9 2NH

Built-in appliances may be seen as the more stylish, aspirational and technologically advanced contenders in the cooking market, but freestanding cookers continue to feature in many manufacturers’ product portfolios as the sector has reinvented itself with updated, modern designs, multi-function capabilities and a greater choice of hob types

Even at the more entry-level of the market, freestanding

cookers are performing well, according to Servis’s Rita Balestrazzi, who advises that the category achieved a year-on-year volume increase of 19.6% in volume sales to January 2016. “60cm twin-cavity gas cookers are quickly becoming recognised as the ultimate all-in-one cooking commodity, o� ering a fast and responsive heating method that’s also extremely cost-e� ective,” she comments.

Balestrazzi maintains that step-up models have driven 13% year-on-year value growth in the 60cm category. She points out that one of the attractions for consumers is that products can o� er a fi� h more cooking room than even the largest single ovens. Also, “they slot perfectly into the smaller kitchens of modern apartments and townhouses.”

Glen Dimplex Home Appliances has made a significant investment in the 50cm freestanding sector. It’s an area the company has always performed strongly in and believes there is scope for further growth.

“We are expecting significant demand for these products as they are well made and keenly priced, o� ering great revenue opportunities for retailers,” says Andrew Freeman, Head of Category for freestanding.

INDUCTIONFreeman maintains that induction continues to be a “huge story” and, apart from built-in and range cooking, it is the fastest growing cooking sector. “As the cost of the technology has reduced, induction has now become much more a� ordable on standard freestanding cookers, which has opened it up to whole new sectors and audiences.

“From a manufacturer and retailer perspective, induction adds real value to the freestanding market by encouraging consumers to trade up

from ceramic, and there is now a strong o� ering of 60cm products available on shop floors and online across major retailers and

independents.”GDHA has a strong freestanding

o� ering across its Stoves, Belling, New World and Valor brands, which Freeman says is frequently being strengthened. “Since launching new touch-control models across the brands we have seen a 25% increase in sales and are expecting a further 30% growth this year,” he adds.

For consumers coming to the market for a new freestanding cooker the overall considerations are fuel choice, cooking capacity, the look of the appliance and price, according to Simon Freear, country manager for Amica UK and Ireland. “Cooking products are unique, in as much they are the fun element in the kitchen, the one place that consumers, if they like cooking, enjoy the interaction. One of the reasons our new freestanding double ovens have taken o� the

Still standing

way they have is due to the generous internal capacity. Their sister product, a single cavity version, is the best selling in its category for similar capacity reasons.”

RANGE COOKERSFreestanding cooking is, of course, a market of two parts – the slot-in cooker, a solution for the standard 60cm gap between kitchen units, o� en bought as a replacement product, and the style-statement range cooker, an appliance that adds considerable value to the market, and which also now comes in a 60cm width.

Britannia Living expanded its portfolio earlier this year with the launch of its first mini range cookers – the Delphi Professional 60cm collection. The two new freestanding models, which feature a multifunction 55-litre net capacity oven, are available in dual fuel or, for those looking for a greener option, with an induction hotplate. The new products deliver the professional aesthetic of Britannia’s Delphi range cookers and are suitable for those who aspire to range-cooker ownership but lack the necessary kitchen space for a full-size model.

Caple managing director Danny Lay believes on-trend styles in range cookers nowadays tend to be modern. “Stainless steel and black glass versions look particularly chic. It’s these sleek aesthetics which blend well with the traditional elements we all love about range cookers, such as double-cavity cooking space and plenty of hob space.

“The most popular range cookers tend to have high energy ratings and time-saving features which make life easier in the kitchen. Range cookers with multi-functional ovens are high on the agenda. These appliances are in demand where cooking is key to the end user’s lifestyle.”

ADDING VALUEIn terms of maximising sales opportunities and add-on revenues, Chris Honer, Managing Director of Britannia, says retailers should focus on the quality finish of products and the advanced extras that are available to make life easier for consumers.

Britannia has incorporated extras such as a programmable meat probe and rotisserie oven in its larger sized models, and also o� ers a Chef Top, which enables users to cook Teppan Yaki style. A cast iron wok support accessory and griddle are also available, providing consumers with more cooking options, while supporting retailers with added value.

“Induction adds real value

to the freestanding market by

encouraging consumers to

trade up...”

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED28

FREESTANDING COOKING

Page 30: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

The arrival of co� ee shop chains in Britain brought about a new era

for a nation of tea drinkers, whose knowledge of the strong ca� eine-rich beverage was largely rudimentary. Nowadays, we’re a more sophisticated bunch, confidently choosing from a cocktail of drinks ranging from espresso and ristretto to lattes, cappuccino, macchiato, frappuccino…. or those laced with caramel, vanilla or booze.

According to Mintel, consumer spend on co� ee machines doubled in the five years to 2015 to reach £148 million, and it’s not surprising that sales have continued to grow. Alex Pickering, UK and Ireland Marketing Director for the De’Longhi Group, says research shows that we are becoming increasingly more discerning co� ee drinkers. “And not only are we looking for the very best co� ee, but also the right co� ee-making experience.”

POD MACHINESResearch also shows that people aren’t willing to compromise on the quality of their co� ee, but they do want it served as fast as possible. Hence, the demand for pod machines in the UK has continued to grow. At the premium end of the market,

pod machines have shown significant growth, last year accounting for 69% of the value of the total Hot Beverage market, according to Dominik Pytel, Marketing Director at Groupe SEB UK.

Euromonitor International reports the growth of fresh ground co� ee pods during 2015 to have been a “success story”. While consumers in the UK traditionally favoured instant co� ee over fresh co� ee, this is in the process of being reversed. The research company says the continued growth in pods was led by high demand for barista-style co� ee coupled with the convenience of preparing a quality drink at home. A wider assortment of flavours with premium varieties such as cappuccino, latte and macchiato, which were particularly successful among consumers under 28 years old, drove sales throughout the year.

“Real product innovation in the co� ee machines sector is a key market driver and

always excites the consumer by providing genuine useful features and benefits which ensure that premium models continue to be a top-selling category for retailers,” says Group SEB’s Pytel.

Group SEB brand Krups intends to capitalise on this premium-end growth and has recently launched two new concept Nespresso machines – PRODIGIO and PRODIGIO & milk. These are the first connected Nespresso machines from Krups. Both incorporate Bluetooth technology to allow users to pour or schedule their co� ee using their smartphone.

Pytel maintains that Nespresso machines o� er the same results as top-range espresso models, with the perfect taste and aroma preserved under a layer of crèma, all provided by the convenience of a pod.

BEAN-TO-CUPDe’Longhi’s Pickering notes that while co� ee makers continue to see double-digit growth, bean-to-cup delivered the most rapid growth in both volume and value sales in 2015 within the category, compared to other espresso and filter markets, with a 24.8% increase in overall sales value. “This,” he says, “highlights the increasing consumer demand for barista-quality personalisation at home.”

Pickering also believes that many consumers are now seeking quality, reliable products and brands because they want to invest in appliances that will last longer and look good, o� ering

long-term value for money. He quotes figures showing that 52%

of people consider the quality of the co� ee machine in relation to the price when making their purchase decision, while the second most important factor is the ease of use (48%) followed

by the flavour of the co� ee the machine produces (43%).

“These are all key points to consider when displaying co� ee

machines in store,” he advises.“Other considered factors for

consumers are countertop space, versatility and appearance.

De’Longhi understands that consumers o� en have limited kitchen worktop space and has continued to push innovative designs with smaller footprints as well as technological advancements.

“Consumers are increasingly looking for products with great quality and value that can

The coffee machines market just keeps on giving, delivering style and convenience and the barista-style experience coffee lovers demand

The bean the pod

Hotpoint espresso machine – designed in

partnership with illy

of being reversed. The research company of being reversed. The research company says the continued growth in pods was says the continued growth in pods was led by high demand for barista-led by high demand for barista-style co� ee coupled with the convenience of preparing a quality drink at home. A wider assortment

varieties such as cappuccino, latte and macchiato, which were particularly successful among consumers under 28 years old,

machines in store,” he advises.“Other considered factors for

consumers are countertop space, consumers are countertop space, versatility and appearance.

Krups’ PRODIGIO & milk incorporates Bluetooth technology

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED30

COFFEE MACHINES

“Real product innovation in the coffee machines

sector is a key market driver”

Taking co� ee experiences to a whole new level. The new Nespresso machine communicates directly with smartphones or tablets – the ultimate in co� ee machine connectivity.

For further details, please contact Nespresso on 0800 442 442

The connected machine

SPGPRO16_UK_A4-no-date-01.indd 1 18/04/2016 10:07

Page 31: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

The arrival of co� ee shop chains in Britain brought about a new era

for a nation of tea drinkers, whose knowledge of the strong ca� eine-rich beverage was largely rudimentary. Nowadays, we’re a more sophisticated bunch, confidently choosing from a cocktail of drinks ranging from espresso and ristretto to lattes, cappuccino, macchiato, frappuccino…. or those laced with caramel, vanilla or booze.

According to Mintel, consumer spend on co� ee machines doubled in the five years to 2015 to reach £148 million, and it’s not surprising that sales have continued to grow. Alex Pickering, UK and Ireland Marketing Director for the De’Longhi Group, says research shows that we are becoming increasingly more discerning co� ee drinkers. “And not only are we looking for the very best co� ee, but also the right co� ee-making experience.”

POD MACHINESResearch also shows that people aren’t willing to compromise on the quality of their co� ee, but they do want it served as fast as possible. Hence, the demand for pod machines in the UK has continued to grow. At the premium end of the market,

pod machines have shown significant growth, last year accounting for 69% of the value of the total Hot Beverage market, according to Dominik Pytel, Marketing Director at Groupe SEB UK.

Euromonitor International reports the growth of fresh ground co� ee pods during 2015 to have been a “success story”. While consumers in the UK traditionally favoured instant co� ee over fresh co� ee, this is in the process of being reversed. The research company says the continued growth in pods was led by high demand for barista-style co� ee coupled with the convenience of preparing a quality drink at home. A wider assortment of flavours with premium varieties such as cappuccino, latte and macchiato, which were particularly successful among consumers under 28 years old, drove sales throughout the year.

“Real product innovation in the co� ee machines sector is a key market driver and

always excites the consumer by providing genuine useful features and benefits which ensure that premium models continue to be a top-selling category for retailers,” says Group SEB’s Pytel.

Group SEB brand Krups intends to capitalise on this premium-end growth and has recently launched two new concept Nespresso machines – PRODIGIO and PRODIGIO & milk. These are the first connected Nespresso machines from Krups. Both incorporate Bluetooth technology to allow users to pour or schedule their co� ee using their smartphone.

Pytel maintains that Nespresso machines o� er the same results as top-range espresso models, with the perfect taste and aroma preserved under a layer of crèma, all provided by the convenience of a pod.

BEAN-TO-CUPDe’Longhi’s Pickering notes that while co� ee makers continue to see double-digit growth, bean-to-cup delivered the most rapid growth in both volume and value sales in 2015 within the category, compared to other espresso and filter markets, with a 24.8% increase in overall sales value. “This,” he says, “highlights the increasing consumer demand for barista-quality personalisation at home.”

Pickering also believes that many consumers are now seeking quality, reliable products and brands because they want to invest in appliances that will last longer and look good, o� ering

long-term value for money. He quotes figures showing that 52%

of people consider the quality of the co� ee machine in relation to the price when making their purchase decision, while the second most important factor is the ease of use (48%) followed

by the flavour of the co� ee the machine produces (43%).

“These are all key points to consider when displaying co� ee

machines in store,” he advises.“Other considered factors for

consumers are countertop space, versatility and appearance.

De’Longhi understands that consumers o� en have limited kitchen worktop space and has continued to push innovative designs with smaller footprints as well as technological advancements.

“Consumers are increasingly looking for products with great quality and value that can

The coffee machines market just keeps on giving, delivering style and convenience and the barista-style experience coffee lovers demand

The bean the pod

Krups’ PRODIGIO & milk incorporates Bluetooth technology

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED30

“Real product innovation in the coffee machines

sector is a key market driver”

Taking co� ee experiences to a whole new level. The new Nespresso machine communicates directly with smartphones or tablets – the ultimate in co� ee machine connectivity.

For further details, please contact Nespresso on 0800 442 442

The connected machine

SPGPRO16_UK_A4-no-date-01.indd 1 18/04/2016 10:07

Page 32: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Caple's CM461 fully automatic built-in coffee machine has

adjustable settings for making a variety of coffee drinks

revolutionise their kitchen. Year on year we have seen consumers becoming more audacious, investing more in the quality and functionality in their choice of small appliances whilst also choosing imaginative styles and colour variants.”

Pickering believes there is a real opportunity for retailers to enjoy the growth in the co� ee machine market by managing product ranges in-store so they o� er desirable and innovative brands and product categories that complement each other, such as De’Longhi’s Scultura and Distinta breakfast collections.

BUILT-INWhirlpool’s Charles Bernstein, Category Manager – Built-in, notes a significant trend towards built-in co� ee appliances, particularly for consumers who enjoy entertaining. “Discerning consumers want to enjoy a lifestyle that promotes luxury and convenience and boasts status. Many are choosing to upgrade their existing homes instead of moving house, and with entertaining at home as popular as ever, the kitchen and its appliances have become a big priority. Some are also looking for appliances that are a bit out of the ordinary and o� er something not typically seen in a standard kitchen.

“A built-in co� ee machine adds value to the home, allows for individuality and bespoke design and, at the same time, o� ers entertainment value and the luxury of a proper cup of co� ee.

“The encouraging news for the co� ee machine sector is that products like these are very important in the modern kitchen, as lifestyles change and the layout of the home evolves to o� er fewer confined, specified areas.”

Bernstein believes the success of the built-in co� ee machine sector can be measured by the number of popular brands in the marketplace.

Commenting on the design of built-in co� ee machines, Caple managing director Danny Lay says this is moving in line with all other major appliance trends. “Therefore, sleek, sophisticated styles with an industrial edge to give the appliance a more professional feel are proving popular.

“Functions have become simple and easier to navigate, and the most popular co� ee machines are those which you

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE TASTERoger Heap, Managing Director for JURA UK, believes that possessing a co� ee machine is “a growing household must” as the drink continues to grow in popularity. “Consumers are co� ee connoisseurs,” he comments. “They truly understand the complexities of this en-vogue drink, so it’s important for retailers to ensure that they o� er the very best quality co� ee machines and communicate their origin, as well as product knowledge.

“Bean-to-cup co� ee machines are responsible for the growth of good quality co� ee in this vibrant industry. Great tasting co� ee starts with premium beans, ensuring a barista-style experience every time.”

can adapt to make di� erent types of perfect co� ee with a range of easy-to-use settings such as grind time, co� ee and steam temperature and water volume.”

De’Longhi’s PrimaDonna Elite connected bean-to-cup coffee machine

32

COFFEE MACHINES

“A built-in coffee machine

adds value to the home”

BEAN TO CUPCa� eo® Barista TS Melitta’s flagship fully-automatic co� ee machine, the CAFFEO Barista TS®, developed with barista knowhow, provides a remarkable degree of diversity. It features four classic specialties – espresso, café crème, cappuccino

and latte macchiato – and a further 14 exclusive varieties of co� ee. Individual settings for co� ee strength,

brewing temperature and quantity can be stored for each drink and for up to four persons by way of the

special My Co� ee Memory function. Thanks to the Touch & Slide panel and the brilliant high-resolution

TFT color display, this fully-automatic premium co� ee maker can be used intuitively.

Ca� eo® Varianza CSP CAFFEO® Varianza® CSP with My Bean Select® is a perfect fully-automatic co� eemaker for discerning co� ee lovers who appreciate both the

aroma of selected freshly-ground

co� ee beans and flexible single-cup preparation.

The innovative My Bean Select® single-cup system enables the user to choose cup by cup

at any time from the entire range of co� ee beans, and thereby provides a limitless range of tastes

and flavours.

FILTER COFFEE MACHINESAroma Elegance Deluxe Melitta has once again set the standards for the preparation of filter co� ee. The Aroma Elegance Deluxe o� ers impressive innovation, a high level of ease of use and elegant design, giving pleasure to the most discerning co� ee lover. It features the exclusive Aroma Control function, which allows users to get the fullest of flavour from even the smallest amount of co� ee. The elegant modern appearance is most striking; as is the

simplicity, ease of use and built-in 3 in 1 calc protection, which ensures a long product lifecycle. As the inventor of the co� ee filter paper, Melitta combines in the Aroma Elegance its entire competence, experience and passion for co� ee.

Look IV Timer Our award-winning Look IV range topper features a practical timer function, and the new 3 in 1 calc protection rounds o� this model’s ease of use. It also incorporates Melitta’s unique Aroma Selector, enabling the user to set the co� ee intensity to their preference to personalise the co� ee experience.

The UK co� ee segment has exploded in recent years, with a huge drive into freshly prepared co� ee. At Melitta, we have the passion and expertise throughout the entire process of bean to cup, giving authority to a world-recognised brand with true heritage and innovation.

Melitta UK has gone from strength to strength since it was established in 2014. UK Country & Sales Manager Stephen Barnett has been joined by David Price to continue what has been a wonderful journey in the marketplace. We continue to invest and drive the electrical co� ee categories with innovation, quality, passion and value, with the objective of providing retailers and consumers with service support and rewards.

FROM THE BEAN TO THE CUPMelitta, founded by Melitta Bentz in 1908, was the inventor of the

co� ee filter paper and the first to market the electric co� ee maker. Today, the brand is a world leader in co� ee enjoyment.

Ca� eo® Passione OT CAFFEO® Passione® One Touch (OT) o� ers a wide range of palate pleasures in no time at all: ten recipes for popular co� ee specialities delivered swi� ly and e� ortlessly at the touch of a button – Café crème via espresso to cappuccino. One touch is all that is needed for perfect foamed milk and hot water too. In addition, the Melitta® Best Aroma System gets the best out of every bean, thereby guaranteeing a perfect taste experience cup by cup. The elegant One Touch fully-automatic co� eemaker is a real eye-catcher with a cubic design, so it is even suitable for small kitchens. The new CAFFEO® Passione® One Touch (OT) is an excellent choice for all who appreciate a true variety of pleasure along with maximum comfort and ease of use.

GET CONNECTEDMAY 2016 33

PB

01733 260905 www.melitta.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Page 33: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

revolutionise their kitchen. Year on year we have seen consumers becoming more audacious, investing more in the quality and functionality in their choice of small appliances whilst also choosing imaginative styles and colour variants.”

Pickering believes there is a real opportunity for retailers to enjoy the growth in the co� ee machine market by managing product ranges in-store so they o� er desirable and innovative brands and product categories that complement each other, such as De’Longhi’s Scultura and Distinta breakfast collections.

BUILT-INWhirlpool’s Charles Bernstein, Category Manager – Built-in, notes a significant trend towards built-in co� ee appliances, particularly for consumers who enjoy entertaining. “Discerning consumers want to enjoy a lifestyle that promotes luxury and convenience and boasts status. Many are choosing to upgrade their existing homes instead of moving house, and with entertaining at home as popular as ever, the kitchen and its appliances have become a big priority. Some are also looking for appliances that are a bit out of the ordinary and o� er something not typically seen in a standard kitchen.

“A built-in co� ee machine adds value to the home, allows for individuality and bespoke design and, at the same time, o� ers entertainment value and the luxury of a proper cup of co� ee.

“The encouraging news for the co� ee machine sector is that products like these are very important in the modern kitchen, as lifestyles change and the layout of the home evolves to o� er fewer confined, specified areas.”

Bernstein believes the success of the built-in co� ee machine sector can be measured by the number of popular brands in the marketplace.

Commenting on the design of built-in co� ee machines, Caple managing director Danny Lay says this is moving in line with all other major appliance trends. “Therefore, sleek, sophisticated styles with an industrial edge to give the appliance a more professional feel are proving popular.

“Functions have become simple and easier to navigate, and the most popular co� ee machines are those which you

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE TASTERoger Heap, Managing Director for JURA UK, believes that possessing a co� ee machine is “a growing household must” as the drink continues to grow in popularity. “Consumers are co� ee connoisseurs,” he comments. “They truly understand the complexities of this en-vogue drink, so it’s important for retailers to ensure that they o� er the very best quality co� ee machines and communicate their origin, as well as product knowledge.

“Bean-to-cup co� ee machines are responsible for the growth of good quality co� ee in this vibrant industry. Great tasting co� ee starts with premium beans, ensuring a barista-style experience every time.”

can adapt to make di� erent types of perfect co� ee with a range of easy-to-use settings such as grind time, co� ee and steam temperature and water volume.”

De’Longhi’s PrimaDonna Elite connected bean-to-cup coffee machine

32

COFFEE MACHINES

“A built-in coffee machine

adds value to the home”

BEAN TO CUPCa� eo® Barista TS Melitta’s flagship fully-automatic co� ee machine, the CAFFEO Barista TS®, developed with barista knowhow, provides a remarkable degree of diversity. It features four classic specialties – espresso, café crème, cappuccino

and latte macchiato – and a further 14 exclusive varieties of co� ee. Individual settings for co� ee strength,

brewing temperature and quantity can be stored for each drink and for up to four persons by way of the

special My Co� ee Memory function. Thanks to the Touch & Slide panel and the brilliant high-resolution

TFT color display, this fully-automatic premium co� ee maker can be used intuitively.

Ca� eo® Varianza CSP CAFFEO® Varianza® CSP with My Bean Select® is a perfect fully-automatic co� eemaker for discerning co� ee lovers who appreciate both the

aroma of selected freshly-ground

co� ee beans and flexible single-cup preparation.

The innovative My Bean Select® single-cup system enables the user to choose cup by cup

at any time from the entire range of co� ee beans, and thereby provides a limitless range of tastes

and flavours.

FILTER COFFEE MACHINESAroma Elegance Deluxe Melitta has once again set the standards for the preparation of filter co� ee. The Aroma Elegance Deluxe o� ers impressive innovation, a high level of ease of use and elegant design, giving pleasure to the most discerning co� ee lover. It features the exclusive Aroma Control function, which allows users to get the fullest of flavour from even the smallest amount of co� ee. The elegant modern appearance is most striking; as is the

simplicity, ease of use and built-in 3 in 1 calc protection, which ensures a long product lifecycle. As the inventor of the co� ee filter paper, Melitta combines in the Aroma Elegance its entire competence, experience and passion for co� ee.

Look IV Timer Our award-winning Look IV range topper features a practical timer function, and the new 3 in 1 calc protection rounds o� this model’s ease of use. It also incorporates Melitta’s unique Aroma Selector, enabling the user to set the co� ee intensity to their preference to personalise the co� ee experience.

The UK co� ee segment has exploded in recent years, with a huge drive into freshly prepared co� ee. At Melitta, we have the passion and expertise throughout the entire process of bean to cup, giving authority to a world-recognised brand with true heritage and innovation.

Melitta UK has gone from strength to strength since it was established in 2014. UK Country & Sales Manager Stephen Barnett has been joined by David Price to continue what has been a wonderful journey in the marketplace. We continue to invest and drive the electrical co� ee categories with innovation, quality, passion and value, with the objective of providing retailers and consumers with service support and rewards.

FROM THE BEAN TO THE CUPMelitta, founded by Melitta Bentz in 1908, was the inventor of the

co� ee filter paper and the first to market the electric co� ee maker. Today, the brand is a world leader in co� ee enjoyment.

Ca� eo® Passione OT CAFFEO® Passione® One Touch (OT) o� ers a wide range of palate pleasures in no time at all: ten recipes for popular co� ee specialities delivered swi� ly and e� ortlessly at the touch of a button – Café crème via espresso to cappuccino. One touch is all that is needed for perfect foamed milk and hot water too. In addition, the Melitta® Best Aroma System gets the best out of every bean, thereby guaranteeing a perfect taste experience cup by cup. The elegant One Touch fully-automatic co� eemaker is a real eye-catcher with a cubic design, so it is even suitable for small kitchens. The new CAFFEO® Passione® One Touch (OT) is an excellent choice for all who appreciate a true variety of pleasure along with maximum comfort and ease of use.

GET CONNECTEDMAY 2016 33

PB

01733 260905 www.melitta.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENT FEATUREADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Page 34: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Why did you choose to work in the electrical industry? You don’t choose the industry; the industry chooses you.

Who in the industry would you like to spend time with? From having a previous electrical retail background, I’d love to spend time in the nationals’ marketing departments, like a fly on the wall.

What makes you laugh? My humour is somewhat juvenile and I laugh when I shouldn’t.

What was the greatest turning point in your life? Having kids.

What hobbies do you have? It’s all about guitars and cycling.

Greatest regret? I made a bad career move around 5 years ago but I’m back on track now.

What sort of music do you like? Metal, Rock and Blues mainly.

What historic figure do you identify with most? Mr Hendrix. Do I really need to answer why? Just put “Are you experienced” on – Jimi understands.

How would you describe yourself? Easy going.

How do you think others see you? A very tired father of four.

Pet hate? Keyboard warriors.

Do you have any bad habits? Don’t get in a car with me.

If you weren’t in your present position, what job would you choose to do? I’d happily roadie or sound/guitar techfor any of the big metal bands.

Favourite TV programme? Match of the day.

What surprises you? The lack of indicator use by Audi drivers.

What’s your favourite cuisine? Chilli.

You have been offered a leading role in a film of your choice, what character would you like to play? Any role Quentin Tarantino would give me. The cooler the better, obviously.

You have been offered the opportunity to rule the world for a day, what would be the first change you would make? Channel our energies into resourcing more food and safe shelter across the globe, whatever it takes.

Is there anything about yourself that you would like to change? My lack of x-ray vision is annoying.

Do you have any hidden talents? Green fingers, I have an allotment and am attempting to cross breed new chilli varieties.

Do you have any particular fetishes? I’m not sure answering this correctly would make it into the magazine �

What (or who) would you put into Room 101? Audi drivers.

What’s your greatest achievement?Playing in a band in front of 2,000 people. Work related – it’s making the great strides we are doing in CDA.

Favourite quote? There’s no “I” in team, but if you look very closely then you don’t have enough work to do.

Who has been the greatest influence in your life? A gentleman called Stuart Laverick, who instilled the marketing bug firmly into me at University.

Name your poison? White beer.

What do you daydream about? In the very brief moments I have to daydream, it’s usually headlining the Download Festival.

Favourite holiday destination?Woolacombe beach with my girls: not exotic but so rewarding.

What’s the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? This questionnaire.

What’s the worst lie you’ve ever told? The answer to each of these questions.

What’s the best kind of punishment? Guilt.

…and who deserves it? If you felt guilty, you needed punishing.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time? As a taxi service to my four kids.

What’s your greatest fear? Moths.

Who do you most admire? My good lady. I mean, four kids, that’s a feat and a half.

What’s your favourite piece of kit? My Ibanez Roadstar from 1984.

What motto do you live by? “Never live life by a motto.”

Life is… …complex – try listening to school kids.

HE’S A WANNABE ROCKER WITH A FEAR OF MOTHS AND AN AVERSION TO AUDI DRIVERS, BUT HE CAN TAKE THE HEAT WHEN IT COMES TO CUISINE. MEET STEVE CORBETT, MARKETING MANAGER FOR NOTTINGHAMSHIRE-BASED APPLIANCE FIRM CDA.

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED34

BACKCHAT

NAME:STEVE CORBETT

COMPANY:CDA

VISITOR2-MINUTE INTERVIEW

Established in 1991, CDA are a UK company offering high quality kitchen appliances that are built with your customers’ lifestyle in mind. For 25 years CDA have supported high street retailers with our mission to ‘be the best’. We promise to offer the best products at the best price possible, delivering nationwide and providing peace of mind with our 5 year parts, 2 year labour guarantee on all CDA appliances.

25 v1.indd 1 25/04/2016 15:55

Page 35: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Why did you choose to work in the electrical industry? You don’t choose the industry; the industry chooses you.

Who in the industry would you like to spend time with? From having a previous electrical retail background, I’d love to spend time in the nationals’ marketing departments, like a fly on the wall.

What makes you laugh? My humour is somewhat juvenile and I laugh when I shouldn’t.

What was the greatest turning point in your life? Having kids.

What hobbies do you have? It’s all about guitars and cycling.

Greatest regret? I made a bad career move around 5 years ago but I’m back on track now.

What sort of music do you like? Metal, Rock and Blues mainly.

What historic figure do you identify with most? Mr Hendrix. Do I really need to answer why? Just put “Are you experienced” on – Jimi understands.

How would you describe yourself? Easy going.

How do you think others see you? A very tired father of four.

Pet hate? Keyboard warriors.

Do you have any bad habits? Don’t get in a car with me.

If you weren’t in your present position, what job would you choose to do? I’d happily roadie or sound/guitar techfor any of the big metal bands.

Favourite TV programme? Match of the day.

What surprises you? The lack of indicator use by Audi drivers.

What’s your favourite cuisine? Chilli.

You have been offered a leading role in a film of your choice, what character would you like to play? Any role Quentin Tarantino would give me. The cooler the better, obviously.

You have been offered the opportunity to rule the world for a day, what would be the first change you would make? Channel our energies into resourcing more food and safe shelter across the globe, whatever it takes.

Is there anything about yourself that you would like to change? My lack of x-ray vision is annoying.

Do you have any hidden talents? Green fingers, I have an allotment and am attempting to cross breed new chilli varieties.

Do you have any particular fetishes? I’m not sure answering this correctly would make it into the magazine �

What (or who) would you put into Room 101? Audi drivers.

What’s your greatest achievement?Playing in a band in front of 2,000 people. Work related – it’s making the great strides we are doing in CDA.

Favourite quote? There’s no “I” in team, but if you look very closely then you don’t have enough work to do.

Who has been the greatest influence in your life? A gentleman called Stuart Laverick, who instilled the marketing bug firmly into me at University.

Name your poison? White beer.

What do you daydream about? In the very brief moments I have to daydream, it’s usually headlining the Download Festival.

Favourite holiday destination?Woolacombe beach with my girls: not exotic but so rewarding.

What’s the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? This questionnaire.

What’s the worst lie you’ve ever told? The answer to each of these questions.

What’s the best kind of punishment? Guilt.

…and who deserves it? If you felt guilty, you needed punishing.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time? As a taxi service to my four kids.

What’s your greatest fear? Moths.

Who do you most admire? My good lady. I mean, four kids, that’s a feat and a half.

What’s your favourite piece of kit? My Ibanez Roadstar from 1984.

What motto do you live by? “Never live life by a motto.”

Life is… …complex – try listening to school kids.

HE’S A WANNABE ROCKER WITH A FEAR OF MOTHS AND AN AVERSION TO AUDI DRIVERS, BUT HE CAN TAKE THE HEAT WHEN IT COMES TO CUISINE. MEET STEVE CORBETT, MARKETING MANAGER FOR NOTTINGHAMSHIRE-BASED APPLIANCE FIRM CDA.

MAY 2016GET CONNECTED34

BACKCHAT

NAME:STEVE CORBETT

COMPANY:CDA

2-MINUTE INTERVIEW

Established in 1991, CDA are a UK company offering high quality kitchen appliances that are built with your customers’ lifestyle in mind. For 25 years CDA have supported high street retailers with our mission to ‘be the best’. We promise to offer the best products at the best price possible, delivering nationwide and providing peace of mind with our 5 year parts, 2 year labour guarantee on all CDA appliances.

25 v1.indd 1 25/04/2016 15:55

Page 36: Get Connected Magazine - May 2016

Sell SONOS SmarterThe Flexson Cantilever TV Mount For the SONOS PLAYBAR is just one of the 75+ smart accessories designed in the UK for every SONOS product.

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• Vertical and horizontal adjustment to align screen and SONOS PLAYBAR

• SONOS PLAYBAR appears as part of the TV and rotates in line with it

• Rotates up to 180° with 40” screen

• Fits screens 37”- 55” (all VESA mounts to 600 x 400mm)

• Maximum TV 40kgs

• Designed and manufactured in the UK

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GET A FREE FLEXSON CANTILEVER TV MOUNT FOR THE SONOS PLAYBAR FOR DEMONSTRATION*If you don’t have the wall space, we’re also offering the same opportunity for the Flexson TV Stand for the SONOS PLAYBAR For details, please contact us on 0208 358 5888.

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Discover 75+ superb solutions, for every SONOS product at Flexson.com

STEAMBAKE HAS ARRIVEDTIME TO TURN UP THE HEAT

MAY 2016

AUDIO & DIGITAL STREAMINGThe constantly evolving world of audio

GEORGE COLE GETS CONNECTEDSelling UHD TV: what could possibly go wrong?

FROM THE BENCHBroadband speeds for TV

BACKCHAT2-minute interview with CDA’s Steve Corbett

17PLUS INTEGRAL

COOKING SUPPLEMENT

FOOD PREPARATION: Healthy outlook for premium-end sales

BUILT-IN APPLIANCES: Capturing the market

FREESTANDING APPLIANCES: A sector not to be ignored

COFFEE MACHINES: Consumer spend continues to grow

PLUS…THE GOURMET QUARTER: Manufacturers promote a selection of their latest products

T HE MAG AZINE OF T HE ELEC T RIC AL GOODS INDUS T RY