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The award-winning range of Humax set-top boxes and recorders for Freeview and Freesat is designed to meet consumer demand and generate high volume sales. With high defi nition (HD) and on-demand content, advanced recording features and interactive services, there is a box to suit any TV viewer’s needs.

www.humaxdigital.com/uk

210x297_HDR_FOX T2.indd 1 29/02/2012 14:03

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

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SEBO Airbelt DDesigned to give you more

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

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

Working in collaboration with Achim Heine, Professor of Design

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

striking new cylinder cleaner which dynamically combines form and

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

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

– it looks good too.

Behind the understated, stylish exterior lies a powerhouse of

performance. For example, the new SEBO Turbofan motor uses

the latest turbine technology to generate incredible suction.

A technologically advanced cone shaped hose further boosts

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

download the brochure.

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

“Powerful and effective withvery good fi lter effi ciency”

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15.5m cleaning rangeExtra range, extra convenience

6l bag capacityExtra long life bags

i-PowerIntegrated power control

REFRIGERATIONWaste not, want not. Frugality and freshness is the new cool as escalating food prices and the interest in healthy eating demand better food management

FROM THE BENCHAlan Bennett looks at the future of TV display

GEORGE COLE GETS CONNECTED3-D TV, digital imaging and safe storage

INTEGRAL COOKING SUPPLEMENTFood Preparation: The new generation of food prep products

Built-In Appliances: Where style and function is headed

Freestanding Appliances: Breadth of choice and versatility

Coff ee Machines: Sophisticated tastes

w w w. g c m a g a z i n e . c o . u kM A R C H / A P R I L 2 0 1 2

tradesales@pure.com0845 148 9002www.pure.com

The Pure Music cloud-based on-demand music service gives you instant access to millions of music tracks.

For just £4.99 per month you can find and play as many tracks and albums as you want, as well as thousands of free live internet radio stations, podcasts, listen again programmes and ambient sounds. All this listening is available on multiple devices, including our wide range of wireless music and radio systems, on PCs and Macs via the Pure Lounge website, and on smartphones running the Pure Lounge app.

Try it now, free, for a month. We think you’ll love it!

All the music you want, wherever you want

Get-Connected_Pure-Music_IFC-Full-Page_Feb12.indd 1 2/24/2012 3:20:16 PM

CONTENTS

3MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

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

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

14 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Growth from Knowledge GfK facts & fi gures on the TV & home

network market

16 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / The Product Gallery

18 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Refrigeration Helping your customers save wastage

and eat fresh as food prices escalate

24 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Growth from Knowledge GfK examines the cooling market

25 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / From the Bench Alan Bennett looks for the future

of TV in the crystal screen

26 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / George Cole Gets Connected

p16 BEST FROM BRITANNIA ‘SHELF’ COOKER HOODwww.besthoods.co.uk

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

Copyright © 2012 Mud Hut Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

Editor in Chief: Marlinda Conway Telephone: 01420 886 33 marlinda@gcmagazine.co.uk

Magazine Advertising Sales:Brian ShillingTelephone: 01892 677741 brian@gcmagazine.co.uk

Sharon MaslenTelephone: 01892 677742 sharon@gcmagazine.co.uk

Editorial & Publishing Director: Terry HeathTelephone: 01420 886 33» terry@gcmagazine.co.uk

Creative Director: Will Dobson design@willdobson.co.uk

Advertisement Production Administration: Will Dobson Telephone: 01342 850 456 gcads@willdobson.co.uk

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

Subscriptions & Circulation: GCCDTelephone: 01420 88633 circulation@gcmagazine.co.uk

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

Get ConnectedGreyfriar CottageWinchester RoadChawtonAltonHampshireGU34 1SB

www.gcmagazine.co.uk

featuring:28 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Food Preparation

32 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Built-In Appliances

36 / The Gourmet Quarter – Product Gallery

38 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Freestanding Appliances

42 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Coff ee Machines

27 INTEGRAL COOKING SUPPLEMENT

tradesales@pure.com0845 148 9002www.pure.com

The Pure Music cloud-based on-demand music service gives you instant access to millions of music tracks.

For just £4.99 per month you can find and play as many tracks and albums as you want, as well as thousands of free live internet radio stations, podcasts, listen again programmes and ambient sounds. All this listening is available on multiple devices, including our wide range of wireless music and radio systems, on PCs and Macs via the Pure Lounge website, and on smartphones running the Pure Lounge app.

Try it now, free, for a month. We think you’ll love it!

All the music you want, wherever you want

Get-Connected_Pure-Music_IFC-Full-Page_Feb12.indd 1 2/24/2012 3:20:16 PM

CONTENTS

3MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

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

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

14 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Growth from Knowledge GfK facts & fi gures on the TV & home

network market

16 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / The Product Gallery

18 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Refrigeration Helping your customers save wastage

and eat fresh as food prices escalate

24 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Growth from Knowledge GfK examines the cooling market

25 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / From the Bench Alan Bennett looks for the future

of TV in the crystal screen

26 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / George Cole Gets Connected

p16 BEST FROM BRITANNIA ‘SHELF’ COOKER HOODwww.besthoods.co.uk

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

Copyright © 2012 Mud Hut Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

Editor in Chief: Marlinda Conway Telephone: 01420 886 33 marlinda@gcmagazine.co.uk

Magazine Advertising Sales:Brian ShillingTelephone: 01892 677741 brian@gcmagazine.co.uk

Sharon MaslenTelephone: 01892 677742 sharon@gcmagazine.co.uk

Editorial & Publishing Director: Terry HeathTelephone: 01420 886 33» terry@gcmagazine.co.uk

Creative Director: Will Dobson design@willdobson.co.uk

Advertisement Production Administration: Will Dobson Telephone: 01342 850 456 gcads@willdobson.co.uk

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

Subscriptions & Circulation: GCCDTelephone: 01420 88633 circulation@gcmagazine.co.uk

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

Get ConnectedGreyfriar CottageWinchester RoadChawtonAltonHampshireGU34 1SB

www.gcmagazine.co.uk

featuring:28 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Food Preparation

32 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Built-In Appliances

36 / The Gourmet Quarter – Product Gallery

38 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Freestanding Appliances

42 / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / Coff ee Machines

27 INTEGRAL COOKING SUPPLEMENT

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED4

The Government at least showed willing to acknowledge that retail is central to the UK economy, and that it is worth supporting through this current crisis if it’s to play its part in the post-recession recovery that the private sector has the task of spearheading. Acknowledgement welcomed. Publicity welcomed. Money, meagre as it is, welcomed.

The strategy of the Government in these types of initiatives, where they need to get the message across to the general public very quickly that they are aware, they care, and they’re doing something, seems to be to appoint a celebrity with a connection to the problem area to be its “czar”. Again, not inherently a bad way to raise public consciousness quickly, and give a rallying point for the industry, the public and the relevant public and private bodies to focus upon.

So far so good. But it’s when the initial publicity has produced its burst of interest, and the fi ndings, decisions and initiatives have to be put into operation on the ground, that the shortcomings of the process become apparent.

Government, by its nature, is not good at understanding how particular business areas work. It’s also not that good at the detailed, daily graft of making initiatives work after the circus has rolled on and other concerns require media management. And when Government is responsible for apportioning public money at local level, the byzantine system of assessment, information gathering and decision-making is massively ineffi cient and often just plain wrong.

Awards of cash given out to local areas under the Government’s High Street Innovation Fund are a case in point. There’s been a lot of anger that some areas, where shop vacancy rates are apparently low, have received a £100,000 injection of funding,

while others with very high vacancy rates have received the same grant. On a per-premises basis, say critics, the funding can represent anything from £50,000 per shop in some areas, and just a few hundred pounds per retail outlet in harder-hit areas where vacancy rates are high and climbing.

The Government defends itself by claiming to be using a uniform countrywide set of local statistics to make its assessments. But Government statistics are, by their nature, out of date by the time they’re published, and subject to all sorts of anomalies that a uniform information-gathering system unavoidably creates.

It does happen that Government information, gathered by painstaking and lengthy form-fi lling, is less accurate and less useful than the simple expedient of someone walking down the High Street, today, and counting how many shops there are.

Hence the anger when Government decisions don’t fi t actual, local experience, and appear not to be fair.

Meanwhile, Mary Portas is quite understandably making the most of the opportunities created by her celebrity status. Nobody ever knows how long their position as a media darling will last, and it makes sense to use it wisely. Celebrities, like Governments, are not good at detailed, daily, hard graft, prosaic, unglamorous commitment to detail. That’s what retail needs, local area by local area, right now. Ms Portas has since focused her attention on bringing back knicker production to the UK, and can’t be expected to do a great deal more for the High Streets than she already has.

We sincerely hope that the publicity, the money and the enthusiasm – all welcome and to be applauded - will not be dissipated in a plethora of red tape.

REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK FOR YOUR FREE COPY OF GET CONNECTED MAGAZINE

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

Marlinda Conway Editor in Chief

Terry HeathEditorial & Publishing

Director

George ColeConsumer Electronics

Consultant

Lynne HenryCommunications Offi cer,

GfK Marketing Services

James McIntoshConsumer Consultant

Will DobsonCreative Director

With the Portas Report out and the Government making moves towards

fulfi lling its promise to help the UK’s struggling High Streets, it seems a little churlish to comment in

anything but a positive way on the initiative.

EDITORIAL COMMENT

A Miele 10 year warranty doesn’t just cover the motor, it covers all parts and labour costs.Talk to your Miele representative for more details.

www.miele.co.uk

1. The promotional offer of a free ten year parts and labour guarantee applies to all Miele washing machines purchased in Great Britain (excluding Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland) between 01/04/2012 and 30/04/2012. 2. Your completed application form can be downloaded from www.miele.co.uk/warranties-promotions must be accompanied by a copy of your sales receipt and sent to The Miele Warranty Dept, Leicester House, 17 Leicester St, Bedworth, CV12 8JP. Please note that we are unable to return your photocopied receipt. 3. All applications must be received by 31/07/2012. Claims cannot be accepted after this date. 4. Please allow 28 days for delivery of your Miele Service Certifi cate. 5. The extended cover takes effect directly after the standard two year guarantee ends and is valid for a further 8 years.

FREE

WARRANTY

ON ALL MIELE WASHING

MACHINES

IN APRIL.

10 YEAR

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED4

The Government at least showed willing to acknowledge that retail is central to the UK economy, and that it is worth supporting through this current crisis if it’s to play its part in the post-recession recovery that the private sector has the task of spearheading. Acknowledgement welcomed. Publicity welcomed. Money, meagre as it is, welcomed.

The strategy of the Government in these types of initiatives, where they need to get the message across to the general public very quickly that they are aware, they care, and they’re doing something, seems to be to appoint a celebrity with a connection to the problem area to be its “czar”. Again, not inherently a bad way to raise public consciousness quickly, and give a rallying point for the industry, the public and the relevant public and private bodies to focus upon.

So far so good. But it’s when the initial publicity has produced its burst of interest, and the fi ndings, decisions and initiatives have to be put into operation on the ground, that the shortcomings of the process become apparent.

Government, by its nature, is not good at understanding how particular business areas work. It’s also not that good at the detailed, daily graft of making initiatives work after the circus has rolled on and other concerns require media management. And when Government is responsible for apportioning public money at local level, the byzantine system of assessment, information gathering and decision-making is massively ineffi cient and often just plain wrong.

Awards of cash given out to local areas under the Government’s High Street Innovation Fund are a case in point. There’s been a lot of anger that some areas, where shop vacancy rates are apparently low, have received a £100,000 injection of funding,

while others with very high vacancy rates have received the same grant. On a per-premises basis, say critics, the funding can represent anything from £50,000 per shop in some areas, and just a few hundred pounds per retail outlet in harder-hit areas where vacancy rates are high and climbing.

The Government defends itself by claiming to be using a uniform countrywide set of local statistics to make its assessments. But Government statistics are, by their nature, out of date by the time they’re published, and subject to all sorts of anomalies that a uniform information-gathering system unavoidably creates.

It does happen that Government information, gathered by painstaking and lengthy form-fi lling, is less accurate and less useful than the simple expedient of someone walking down the High Street, today, and counting how many shops there are.

Hence the anger when Government decisions don’t fi t actual, local experience, and appear not to be fair.

Meanwhile, Mary Portas is quite understandably making the most of the opportunities created by her celebrity status. Nobody ever knows how long their position as a media darling will last, and it makes sense to use it wisely. Celebrities, like Governments, are not good at detailed, daily, hard graft, prosaic, unglamorous commitment to detail. That’s what retail needs, local area by local area, right now. Ms Portas has since focused her attention on bringing back knicker production to the UK, and can’t be expected to do a great deal more for the High Streets than she already has.

We sincerely hope that the publicity, the money and the enthusiasm – all welcome and to be applauded - will not be dissipated in a plethora of red tape.

REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.GCMAGAZINE.CO.UK FOR YOUR FREE COPY OF GET CONNECTED MAGAZINE

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

Marlinda Conway Editor in Chief

Terry HeathEditorial & Publishing

Director

George ColeConsumer Electronics

Consultant

Lynne HenryCommunications Offi cer,

GfK Marketing Services

James McIntoshConsumer Consultant

Will DobsonCreative Director

With the Portas Report out and the Government making moves towards

fulfi lling its promise to help the UK’s struggling High Streets, it seems a little churlish to comment in

anything but a positive way on the initiative.

EDITORIAL COMMENT

A Miele 10 year warranty doesn’t just cover the motor, it covers all parts and labour costs.Talk to your Miele representative for more details.

www.miele.co.uk

1. The promotional offer of a free ten year parts and labour guarantee applies to all Miele washing machines purchased in Great Britain (excluding Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland) between 01/04/2012 and 30/04/2012. 2. Your completed application form can be downloaded from www.miele.co.uk/warranties-promotions must be accompanied by a copy of your sales receipt and sent to The Miele Warranty Dept, Leicester House, 17 Leicester St, Bedworth, CV12 8JP. Please note that we are unable to return your photocopied receipt. 3. All applications must be received by 31/07/2012. Claims cannot be accepted after this date. 4. Please allow 28 days for delivery of your Miele Service Certifi cate. 5. The extended cover takes effect directly after the standard two year guarantee ends and is valid for a further 8 years.

FREE

WARRANTY

ON ALL MIELE WASHING

MACHINES

IN APRIL.

10 YEAR

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED6

THE Word

in and around the industry

Another CE retailer goes into administrationAJ Electronics, an electrical retailer with premises in Edgware Road, London and an online business has ceased trading after 28 years and gone into administration, with Alexander Kinninmonth and Duncan Beat of RSM Tenon appointed joint administrators.

Latest available fi gures show a year-on-year drop from £24 million in the year to 31

December 2009 to £22.2 million in the year to 31 December 2011. Pre-tax profi t was down from £317,000 to £59,000 in the same comparative periods.

AJ Electronics director Ajay Jobanputra said the current economic climate contributed to falling turnover and reduced margins, and the practice of some larger

high street and online retailers of using consumer electronics goods as “loss leaders” had also had a severe eff ect.

Joint administrator Alexander Kinninmonth confi rmed that a buyer is being sought among a number of interested parties for AJ Electronics’ goodwill and tangible assets.

Over-21s minimum wage riseThe Government has announced that the minimum wage for workers aged over 21 will go up by 11p to £6.19 an hour in October. This is a below-in� ation rise of 1.8%. The hourly rate for under-21s will be unchanged.

The Low Pay Commission has made a minimum wage recommendation annually since the initiative was � rst introduced in 1999, when it was set at £3.60 an hour for adults. The October 2011 increase was 15p an hour.

retra chief executive Bryan Lovewell criticized the 1.8% rise, saying it is “yet another cost to our members. I don’t see the Government handing out pay rises to civil servants, so why should independent electrical retailers be burdened with doing so?

“The retail sector is suffering and it’s high time that the Government takes action to preserve the nation’s High Streets.”

UK shop vacancy rates hit all-time highThe Local Data Company’s monthly barometer of shop vacancies rose in February to 14.6% – the highest fi gure recorded since the index began in 2008.

The picture over the past months shows that town centre vacancy rates stabilised at 14.3% during the second half of 2011 but then rose to 14.5% in January 2012 before showing a further increase to 14.6% in February. Matthew Hopkinson, director at LDC, said: “The latest increase is not unexpected as post Christmas occupancy levels drop and retailer failures continue, with Game Group, with 600 shops, the latest.”

In a separate report from fi nancial health monitoring experts Company Watch, the casualty rate amongst retailers was recorded as “alarmingly high”, with 11 national chains going into some form of insolvency since the beginning of December 2011, threatening over 1,500 stores and aff ecting almost 23,000 retail jobs.

Nick Hood, Head of External Aff airs for Company Watch, said it is inevitable that there will be further retail casualties. “The majority of failures will be smaller chains and single site family-owned businesses, but other larger household names may well be missing from our high streets before the year is out,” he commented.

Weak CE market continues to dampen sales at ArgosHome Retail Group reported a 7.7% decline in sales, to £480 million, at its Argos chain for the 8 weeks ended 25 February. Like-for-likes fell 8.5% in the period, principally driven by continued weakness in the CE market.

Terry Duddy, Chief Executive of the Group, said trends in the short trading period were “broadly as anticipated.”

retra opposes changes to Sunday trading restrictionsretra has said it is against any plans, either temporary or permanent, to lift the current restrictions on Sunday trading in England and Wales, whereby the trading hours of larger stores are limited.

The Government is considering allowing round-the-clock opening on Sundays during the Olympic Games this summer to maximize the opportunities for retail outlets to benefi t from the event. Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne is reported to have commented that it would be a “great shame” if Britain had a “closed for business” sign on it during the Games.

retra is among those who believe that a temporary lifting of restrictions could be the forerunner of a permanent scrapping of the Sunday trading laws.

Chief executive Bryan Lovewell said: “We believe that for family stability and community life, as many people as possible should have the possibility of a common day off every week. The potential detrimental impact on the health of employees, and on small retailers, outweighs any potential benefi ts of further deregulation.”

Conservative MP Therese Coff ey, who is on record warning that a temporary change might become permanent, said: “I wouldn’t stand in the way of shops being open in the Olympic Park during this time,” and spoke up for independent retailers, saying: “I just remind people that small, independent stores are allowed to open all day and this is an opportunity to celebrate them rather than having big stores open as well.”

More job losses at CometReports have emerged that Comet Group has put dozens of staff into consultation for redundancy and may close 61 stores as part of its cost-cutting drive. The news follows the recent decision by the retailer to reduce investment in its repair service and delivery operations, at the cost of 450 jobs.

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED6

THE Word

in and around the industry

Another CE retailer goes into administrationAJ Electronics, an electrical retailer with premises in Edgware Road, London and an online business has ceased trading after 28 years and gone into administration, with Alexander Kinninmonth and Duncan Beat of RSM Tenon appointed joint administrators.

Latest available fi gures show a year-on-year drop from £24 million in the year to 31

December 2009 to £22.2 million in the year to 31 December 2011. Pre-tax profi t was down from £317,000 to £59,000 in the same comparative periods.

AJ Electronics director Ajay Jobanputra said the current economic climate contributed to falling turnover and reduced margins, and the practice of some larger

high street and online retailers of using consumer electronics goods as “loss leaders” had also had a severe eff ect.

Joint administrator Alexander Kinninmonth confi rmed that a buyer is being sought among a number of interested parties for AJ Electronics’ goodwill and tangible assets.

Over-21s minimum wage riseThe Government has announced that the minimum wage for workers aged over 21 will go up by 11p to £6.19 an hour in October. This is a below-in� ation rise of 1.8%. The hourly rate for under-21s will be unchanged.

The Low Pay Commission has made a minimum wage recommendation annually since the initiative was � rst introduced in 1999, when it was set at £3.60 an hour for adults. The October 2011 increase was 15p an hour.

retra chief executive Bryan Lovewell criticized the 1.8% rise, saying it is “yet another cost to our members. I don’t see the Government handing out pay rises to civil servants, so why should independent electrical retailers be burdened with doing so?

“The retail sector is suffering and it’s high time that the Government takes action to preserve the nation’s High Streets.”

UK shop vacancy rates hit all-time highThe Local Data Company’s monthly barometer of shop vacancies rose in February to 14.6% – the highest fi gure recorded since the index began in 2008.

The picture over the past months shows that town centre vacancy rates stabilised at 14.3% during the second half of 2011 but then rose to 14.5% in January 2012 before showing a further increase to 14.6% in February. Matthew Hopkinson, director at LDC, said: “The latest increase is not unexpected as post Christmas occupancy levels drop and retailer failures continue, with Game Group, with 600 shops, the latest.”

In a separate report from fi nancial health monitoring experts Company Watch, the casualty rate amongst retailers was recorded as “alarmingly high”, with 11 national chains going into some form of insolvency since the beginning of December 2011, threatening over 1,500 stores and aff ecting almost 23,000 retail jobs.

Nick Hood, Head of External Aff airs for Company Watch, said it is inevitable that there will be further retail casualties. “The majority of failures will be smaller chains and single site family-owned businesses, but other larger household names may well be missing from our high streets before the year is out,” he commented.

Weak CE market continues to dampen sales at ArgosHome Retail Group reported a 7.7% decline in sales, to £480 million, at its Argos chain for the 8 weeks ended 25 February. Like-for-likes fell 8.5% in the period, principally driven by continued weakness in the CE market.

Terry Duddy, Chief Executive of the Group, said trends in the short trading period were “broadly as anticipated.”

retra opposes changes to Sunday trading restrictionsretra has said it is against any plans, either temporary or permanent, to lift the current restrictions on Sunday trading in England and Wales, whereby the trading hours of larger stores are limited.

The Government is considering allowing round-the-clock opening on Sundays during the Olympic Games this summer to maximize the opportunities for retail outlets to benefi t from the event. Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne is reported to have commented that it would be a “great shame” if Britain had a “closed for business” sign on it during the Games.

retra is among those who believe that a temporary lifting of restrictions could be the forerunner of a permanent scrapping of the Sunday trading laws.

Chief executive Bryan Lovewell said: “We believe that for family stability and community life, as many people as possible should have the possibility of a common day off every week. The potential detrimental impact on the health of employees, and on small retailers, outweighs any potential benefi ts of further deregulation.”

Conservative MP Therese Coff ey, who is on record warning that a temporary change might become permanent, said: “I wouldn’t stand in the way of shops being open in the Olympic Park during this time,” and spoke up for independent retailers, saying: “I just remind people that small, independent stores are allowed to open all day and this is an opportunity to celebrate them rather than having big stores open as well.”

More job losses at CometReports have emerged that Comet Group has put dozens of staff into consultation for redundancy and may close 61 stores as part of its cost-cutting drive. The news follows the recent decision by the retailer to reduce investment in its repair service and delivery operations, at the cost of 450 jobs.

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED8

THE WORD | INDUSTRY NEWS

New MD for Loewe UKPremium AV systems manufacturer Loewe has announced the appointment of James McConnell (pictured) as managing director of its UK subsidiary. He succeeds Marc Nikolai, who joined Loewe UK as MD two years ago and will move to Loewe in Germany as sales manager for International Distributor Markets.

Whirlpool names new presidentsJosé A. Drummond Jr. (pictured), currently executive vice president of Whirlpool Corporation and president of Whirlpool Latin America, has been appointed executive vice president of Whirlpool Corporation and president of Whirlpool Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

Drummond replaces Bracken Darrell, who resigned from the company and has just been appointed president of Logitech.

João Carlos Brega, currently president of the company’s compressor business Embraco, will become executive vice president of Whirlpool Corporation and president of Whirlpool Latin America.

Sharp appoints new PresidentSharp Corporation has named Takashi Okuda as

its new President after forecasting a record annual

loss due to falling prices for its Aquos televisions, an

economic slowdown and a tax charge.

Okuda, currently an executive offi cer, replaces

Mikio Katayama, who becomes corporate advisor, the

Osaka-based company said in a statement.

Sharp expects a ¥290 billion net loss in the year

ending 31 March 2012, reversing an earlier forecast of

¥6 billion profi t.

Panasonic appoints new PresidentPanasonic has announced a number of senior management changes and the appointment of Senior Managing Director Kazuhiro Tsuga to the role of President. Tsuga will replace current President Fumio Ohtsubo who, after six years in the role, steps aside to become Chairman.

The move comes after Panasonic said it expected a ¥780 billion net loss for the year to March.

LCD TV shipment growth in Q4 ’11 the lowest on record 2011 worldwide TV shipments fell for the fi rst time in six years, slipping 0.3% to 247.7 million units. According to the latest NPD DisplaySearch Quarterly Global TV Shipment and Forecast Report, LCD TV shipments recorded a substantial slowdown from the double digit rises in previous years – at 7% up, to just over 205 million units, growth was well below industry expectations.

With plasma TV shipments down almost 7% in 2011 to 17.2 million units, the largest fall yet, and CRT shipments down 34%, the slight growth in LCD was not enough to off set these declines.

NPD said the causes of slow demand in 2011 were complex, and partially due to excessive inventory levels early in 2011 for the US and European markets, as well as a sharp drop in demand in Japan following the end of the government sponsored Eco-Points program that caused a surge in replacement activity during 2009-2010.

Stronger LCD TV shipment growth in larger screen sizes was reported to have been driven by “very aggressively priced” models shipping for the holiday season. Shipments of 40” and larger models rose 20% Y/Y while sub-40” fell 7%. Average prices continued to decline: 40/42” screens fell 11% Y/Y and 60+” prices fell more than 16%.

Sony veteran appointed as retra development support executiveretra has announced that Howard Saycell, who is well known in the industry having served 27 years with Sony, will be joining the organisation as development support executive. He will shadow Mike Floodgate, retra’s deputy chief executive, for the three months prior to Mr Floodgate’s retirement from retra after 15 years’ service.

Bryan Lovewell, retra’s chief executive, said: “While I will be sad to see Mike leave retra after such a massive contribution to the association and its members, I am delighted that Howard will be joining the team. Howard is well known throughout the industry and I look forward to welcoming him to the team in Bedford.”

“After 27 wonderful years with Sony, it’s the right time for me to make a change,” commented Saycell. “Joining retra is a superb opportunity that enables me to continue to be a part of this industry, which has been such a massive part of my life.”

New offi ces for Groupe SEB UKGroupe SEB UK has moved to purpose-designed offi ces at Windsor in Berkshire, after more than 30 years based in nearby Langley.

An offi cial opening ceremony at the new head offi ce was performed by the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead, councillor Asghar Majeed. New address details as follows: Groupe SEB UK Ltd, Riverside House, Riverside Walk, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1NA Tel: 01753 834900

Home Retail Group Chairman stands downHome Retail Group, owner of Argos and Homebase, has announced that Oliver Stocken will stand down from the role of Chairman at the company’s Annual General Meeting on 4 July 2012.

After 12 years with the Group, Stocken is to retire and will be succeeded by John Coombe, currently the senior independent director of Home Retail Group and chairman of the audit committee. Coombe is also a non-executive director of HSBC Holdings and chairman of Hogg Robinson Group.

HOWARD SAYCELL

DRIVE YOUR BUSINESS WITH BLOMBERGEXCLUSIVE TO EURONICS

Visit Blomberg at the CIH Tradeshowfor the chance to win a Ford Transit

* Terms and conditions apply. Entry to prize draw is subject to placing a Blomberg display orderat the show. For full details visit the Blomberg stand or contact your local Sales Representative.

seit 1883

With energy effi cient and highly specifi ed appliances, Blomberg offers a complete range of Freestanding and Built in products exclusive to Euronics agents. Discover the benefi ts of joining the Blomberg network and get the chance to win* a Ford Transit van, branded with your own business name and logo.

Drive your sales forward with Blomberg.

Visit Stand 430 at the CIH Tradeshow (22-23 April) or call 0845 850 5008www.blomberguk.com

BEK0174_CiHTradeShowAdBlomberg_AW1.indd 1 20/03/2012 11:05

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED8

THE WORD | INDUSTRY NEWS

New MD for Loewe UKPremium AV systems manufacturer Loewe has announced the appointment of James McConnell (pictured) as managing director of its UK subsidiary. He succeeds Marc Nikolai, who joined Loewe UK as MD two years ago and will move to Loewe in Germany as sales manager for International Distributor Markets.

Whirlpool names new presidentsJosé A. Drummond Jr. (pictured), currently executive vice president of Whirlpool Corporation and president of Whirlpool Latin America, has been appointed executive vice president of Whirlpool Corporation and president of Whirlpool Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

Drummond replaces Bracken Darrell, who resigned from the company and has just been appointed president of Logitech.

João Carlos Brega, currently president of the company’s compressor business Embraco, will become executive vice president of Whirlpool Corporation and president of Whirlpool Latin America.

Sharp appoints new PresidentSharp Corporation has named Takashi Okuda as

its new President after forecasting a record annual

loss due to falling prices for its Aquos televisions, an

economic slowdown and a tax charge.

Okuda, currently an executive offi cer, replaces

Mikio Katayama, who becomes corporate advisor, the

Osaka-based company said in a statement.

Sharp expects a ¥290 billion net loss in the year

ending 31 March 2012, reversing an earlier forecast of

¥6 billion profi t.

Panasonic appoints new PresidentPanasonic has announced a number of senior management changes and the appointment of Senior Managing Director Kazuhiro Tsuga to the role of President. Tsuga will replace current President Fumio Ohtsubo who, after six years in the role, steps aside to become Chairman.

The move comes after Panasonic said it expected a ¥780 billion net loss for the year to March.

LCD TV shipment growth in Q4 ’11 the lowest on record 2011 worldwide TV shipments fell for the fi rst time in six years, slipping 0.3% to 247.7 million units. According to the latest NPD DisplaySearch Quarterly Global TV Shipment and Forecast Report, LCD TV shipments recorded a substantial slowdown from the double digit rises in previous years – at 7% up, to just over 205 million units, growth was well below industry expectations.

With plasma TV shipments down almost 7% in 2011 to 17.2 million units, the largest fall yet, and CRT shipments down 34%, the slight growth in LCD was not enough to off set these declines.

NPD said the causes of slow demand in 2011 were complex, and partially due to excessive inventory levels early in 2011 for the US and European markets, as well as a sharp drop in demand in Japan following the end of the government sponsored Eco-Points program that caused a surge in replacement activity during 2009-2010.

Stronger LCD TV shipment growth in larger screen sizes was reported to have been driven by “very aggressively priced” models shipping for the holiday season. Shipments of 40” and larger models rose 20% Y/Y while sub-40” fell 7%. Average prices continued to decline: 40/42” screens fell 11% Y/Y and 60+” prices fell more than 16%.

Sony veteran appointed as retra development support executiveretra has announced that Howard Saycell, who is well known in the industry having served 27 years with Sony, will be joining the organisation as development support executive. He will shadow Mike Floodgate, retra’s deputy chief executive, for the three months prior to Mr Floodgate’s retirement from retra after 15 years’ service.

Bryan Lovewell, retra’s chief executive, said: “While I will be sad to see Mike leave retra after such a massive contribution to the association and its members, I am delighted that Howard will be joining the team. Howard is well known throughout the industry and I look forward to welcoming him to the team in Bedford.”

“After 27 wonderful years with Sony, it’s the right time for me to make a change,” commented Saycell. “Joining retra is a superb opportunity that enables me to continue to be a part of this industry, which has been such a massive part of my life.”

New offi ces for Groupe SEB UKGroupe SEB UK has moved to purpose-designed offi ces at Windsor in Berkshire, after more than 30 years based in nearby Langley.

An offi cial opening ceremony at the new head offi ce was performed by the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead, councillor Asghar Majeed. New address details as follows: Groupe SEB UK Ltd, Riverside House, Riverside Walk, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1NA Tel: 01753 834900

Home Retail Group Chairman stands downHome Retail Group, owner of Argos and Homebase, has announced that Oliver Stocken will stand down from the role of Chairman at the company’s Annual General Meeting on 4 July 2012.

After 12 years with the Group, Stocken is to retire and will be succeeded by John Coombe, currently the senior independent director of Home Retail Group and chairman of the audit committee. Coombe is also a non-executive director of HSBC Holdings and chairman of Hogg Robinson Group.

HOWARD SAYCELL

DRIVE YOUR BUSINESS WITH BLOMBERGEXCLUSIVE TO EURONICS

Visit Blomberg at the CIH Tradeshowfor the chance to win a Ford Transit

* Terms and conditions apply. Entry to prize draw is subject to placing a Blomberg display orderat the show. For full details visit the Blomberg stand or contact your local Sales Representative.

seit 1883

With energy effi cient and highly specifi ed appliances, Blomberg offers a complete range of Freestanding and Built in products exclusive to Euronics agents. Discover the benefi ts of joining the Blomberg network and get the chance to win* a Ford Transit van, branded with your own business name and logo.

Drive your sales forward with Blomberg.

Visit Stand 430 at the CIH Tradeshow (22-23 April) or call 0845 850 5008www.blomberguk.com

BEK0174_CiHTradeShowAdBlomberg_AW1.indd 1 20/03/2012 11:05

Call Sales on 01494471100 Visit: www.direktek.co.uk Email: sales@direktek.co.uk Fax: 01494 768668

Images are not representative of the actual product - Trade Only - While Stocks Last - All prices exclude VAT and delivery

£165.00SAM1064

Features- 3D Blu-ray Player - Twin Freeview HD Tuner - 250GB HDD - All Share with Built-In WiFi - Smart Hub- 3D Player with 2D to 3D Conversion

Samsung BD-C8200 Blu Ray Player

£1249.00

SAM1410

Features- 3D Ready LED TV- HD 1080P - Freeview HD- 800Hz Scan- Voice & Motion Control System- Built-in Wi-Fi Capability

Samsung UE46ES8000 -46 inch 3D LED Smart TV

£403.00

SAM1369

Features- HD Ready- Real Black Panel Technology- Wi-Fi Capability- Noise Reduction- 2 x HDMI ports, USB Port

Samsung PS51E450 - 51 inch Plasma TV

Our Spring/Summer 2012 Digital Imaging Guide is out. Please email

marketing@direktek.co.uk to get your copy

Sharp sells stake to Foxconn ownerSharp is to receive an investment of ¥133 billion (£1 billion) in a composite deal that will see the Hon Hai Group, China-based owner of Foxconn, take a 9.9% stake in the business for ¥66.9 billion, plus a 46.5% stake in Sharp Display Products, the joint venture between Sharp and Sony, for ¥66 billion. Foxconn is a major supplier to Apple.

Sharp’s LCD business, in common with other global fl at panel TV manufacturers, has been struggling to compete in world markets where weak demand and falling prices have pushed it into losses. Sharp forecast a net loss of ¥290 billion (£2.2 billion) for the year to 31 March.

For Sharp, the immediate benefi t is an alleviation of the defi cit at the Sharp Display Products plant, improved cashfl ow and

a possible reduction of production costs. For Hon Hai, there is the prospect of more contract manufacturing work from Sharp, but there is also speculation that Hon Hai is making a strategic move into TV production in anticipation of the launch of the Apple TV.

Hon Hai owns Foxconn, already a key assembler of Apple’s iPhone and iPad, and may now be positioning itself to be a competitor to suppliers such as LG Display when Apple takes its next major step in consumer electronics with the Apple TV.

If this is the case, Hon Hai’s strategy is not without risk. Although Sharp has manufacturing expertise in LCD, Apple may want the new AMOLED technology in its TVs, something which Sharp does not yet have.

£20 billion government support for cheaper business loansChancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne has launched a scheme to make borrowing more affordable for small and medium-sized businesses in the UK. Under the National Loan Guarantee Scheme (NLGS), SMEs with a turnover of up to £50 million will be able to access bank funding with interest rates 1% lower than would be available without the scheme.

Under NLGS, banks which borrow money on the wholesale money market to lend on to businesses will have £20 billion of that borrowing guaranteed by the Government. This means the banks will be able to borrow more cheaply, and pass on that saving to

business customers in the form of a lower interest rate. In effect, risk will be transferred from the banks and the money markets to the UK taxpayer.

Industry bodies gave the announcement a mixed reception. BCC director general

John Longworth pointed out that medium-sized � rms would

probably bene� t more than small businesses. “While credit easing is a step in the right direction,” he said, “it is not a panacea for all the problems faced by businesses trying to access � nance. The scheme will make some loans more affordable. But it will not help the smaller, younger, and high-growth � rms that have trouble getting credit in the � rst place.”

See www.gcmagazine.co.uk for the stories behind the news…

Government accepts most of recommendations of Portas Report

Mixed reaction from retail and industry bodies

retra Insurance Services reviews 2012 prices

Majority of extended warranty prices reduced and procedures simpli� ed

Planning changes will boost town centres, says BRC

BPF welcomes “sensible” changes to planning framework

UK a nation of gadget lovers Canterbury named “UK’s No.1

Gadget City”

Shortlist announced for freesat 2012 Awards

“May the best chef, astronomer or midwife win…”

Pace pro� ts cut in half by supply chain problems

Natural disasters hit set top box maker’s production

FSB national chairman John Walker said: “Recent FSB research indicated that around 60% of small � rms believed that credit is unaffordable and so this scheme should help reduce that burden. What we now need to see is clear communication to small � rms and bank branch staff so that everyone is aware of it, and how it will work, so that businesses can bene� t from it.”

THE WORD | INDUSTRY NEWS

Call Sales on 01494471100 Visit: www.direktek.co.uk Email: sales@direktek.co.uk Fax: 01494 768668

Images are not representative of the actual product - Trade Only - While Stocks Last - All prices exclude VAT and delivery

£165.00SAM1064

Features- 3D Blu-ray Player - Twin Freeview HD Tuner - 250GB HDD - All Share with Built-In WiFi - Smart Hub- 3D Player with 2D to 3D Conversion

Samsung BD-C8200 Blu Ray Player

£1249.00

SAM1410

Features- 3D Ready LED TV- HD 1080P - Freeview HD- 800Hz Scan- Voice & Motion Control System- Built-in Wi-Fi Capability

Samsung UE46ES8000 -46 inch 3D LED Smart TV

£403.00

SAM1369

Features- HD Ready- Real Black Panel Technology- Wi-Fi Capability- Noise Reduction- 2 x HDMI ports, USB Port

Samsung PS51E450 - 51 inch Plasma TV

Our Spring/Summer 2012 Digital Imaging Guide is out. Please email

marketing@direktek.co.uk to get your copy

Sharp sells stake to Foxconn ownerSharp is to receive an investment of ¥133 billion (£1 billion) in a composite deal that will see the Hon Hai Group, China-based owner of Foxconn, take a 9.9% stake in the business for ¥66.9 billion, plus a 46.5% stake in Sharp Display Products, the joint venture between Sharp and Sony, for ¥66 billion. Foxconn is a major supplier to Apple.

Sharp’s LCD business, in common with other global fl at panel TV manufacturers, has been struggling to compete in world markets where weak demand and falling prices have pushed it into losses. Sharp forecast a net loss of ¥290 billion (£2.2 billion) for the year to 31 March.

For Sharp, the immediate benefi t is an alleviation of the defi cit at the Sharp Display Products plant, improved cashfl ow and

a possible reduction of production costs. For Hon Hai, there is the prospect of more contract manufacturing work from Sharp, but there is also speculation that Hon Hai is making a strategic move into TV production in anticipation of the launch of the Apple TV.

Hon Hai owns Foxconn, already a key assembler of Apple’s iPhone and iPad, and may now be positioning itself to be a competitor to suppliers such as LG Display when Apple takes its next major step in consumer electronics with the Apple TV.

If this is the case, Hon Hai’s strategy is not without risk. Although Sharp has manufacturing expertise in LCD, Apple may want the new AMOLED technology in its TVs, something which Sharp does not yet have.

£20 billion government support for cheaper business loansChancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne has launched a scheme to make borrowing more affordable for small and medium-sized businesses in the UK. Under the National Loan Guarantee Scheme (NLGS), SMEs with a turnover of up to £50 million will be able to access bank funding with interest rates 1% lower than would be available without the scheme.

Under NLGS, banks which borrow money on the wholesale money market to lend on to businesses will have £20 billion of that borrowing guaranteed by the Government. This means the banks will be able to borrow more cheaply, and pass on that saving to

business customers in the form of a lower interest rate. In effect, risk will be transferred from the banks and the money markets to the UK taxpayer.

Industry bodies gave the announcement a mixed reception. BCC director general

John Longworth pointed out that medium-sized � rms would

probably bene� t more than small businesses. “While credit easing is a step in the right direction,” he said, “it is not a panacea for all the problems faced by businesses trying to access � nance. The scheme will make some loans more affordable. But it will not help the smaller, younger, and high-growth � rms that have trouble getting credit in the � rst place.”

See www.gcmagazine.co.uk for the stories behind the news…

Government accepts most of recommendations of Portas Report

Mixed reaction from retail and industry bodies

retra Insurance Services reviews 2012 prices

Majority of extended warranty prices reduced and procedures simpli� ed

Planning changes will boost town centres, says BRC

BPF welcomes “sensible” changes to planning framework

UK a nation of gadget lovers Canterbury named “UK’s No.1

Gadget City”

Shortlist announced for freesat 2012 Awards

“May the best chef, astronomer or midwife win…”

Pace pro� ts cut in half by supply chain problems

Natural disasters hit set top box maker’s production

FSB national chairman John Walker said: “Recent FSB research indicated that around 60% of small � rms believed that credit is unaffordable and so this scheme should help reduce that burden. What we now need to see is clear communication to small � rms and bank branch staff so that everyone is aware of it, and how it will work, so that businesses can bene� t from it.”

THE WORD | INDUSTRY NEWS

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED12

Belling unveils 100 Collection to celebrate centenary yearGDHA cooking brand Belling has launched a range of limited edition cooking appliances to mark its centenary year. Unveiled at an exclusive London preview event, the new ‘100 Collection’ comprises freestanding ovens, range cookers, built-in ovens and a new-look Baby Belling, styled in a brilliant white fi nish with chrome accents to achieve a clean-lined, eye-catching look.

“In putting together the 100 Collection we wanted to create a range of products across all cooking categories that celebrated our heritage as a great British brand whilst also looking to the future,” commented Denver Hewlett, Chief Executive of Belling. “The result is a collection combining some of our most successful products with a limited edition, super-modern fi nish.”

A contribution from sales of the 100 Collection will be made to Belling’s charity of the year, Anthony Nolan, a pioneering charity that aims to save the lives of people with blood cancer who need blood stem cell or bone marrow transplants. Hewlett said the brand was proud to be supporting the charity and the contribution from sales of the new collection would be supplemented with a number of other fundraising activities.

retra “incensed” by new digital radio campaignIndustry body retra has spoken out after being informed that the new Digital Radio UK (DRUK)-led campaign will totally exclude independent retailers. retra said in a press statement that it understands a new campaign will off er consumers a percentage discount on digital radios – but only in multiple retail outlets.

Bryan Lovewell, retra’s chief executive, said he was “incensed” when he heard that the price promotion will bypass independents. “I am very disappointed that my members have not been included as part of the campaign, which comes after a large amount of work that retra has done alongside DRUK.

“Digital radio switchover, like digital TV switchover before it, off ers retailers a formidable opportunity in what is a depressed market; discounting products benefi ts the consumer, but does nothing for the retailer. retra’s retail membership consists of more than 1,800 outlets across the UK and I am dismayed that a promotion has completely bypassed independent retailers.

“I would like an immediate meeting with Ford Ennals and his management team to explain why my members have been forgotten by DRUK’s actions.”

DRUK, in an earlier press statement, had confi rmed that Broadcast Minister Ed Vaizey had met

Cromwell supports local talentJames Waples and Matt Froggett are to join software company Cromwell Business Systems as trainees, following their success at a series of workshops run by the business to recruit local students.

The workshops are operated in conjunction with a Cambridge 6th form college and attended by A and AS level students interested in technology. Waples and Froggett were two of the ten who took part in the most recent series.

Cromwell Commercial Director Sonu Kundi said: “As a very successful company we feel in a position to put back something into the industry in this way. We are very pleased at how well attended our student workshops have been and with the very high standard of the candidates attending, all of whom have numerous A and A* grades. We are delighted that James and Matt will be joining us shortly as trainees.”

Fourteen of LG Electronics’ 2012 prod-ucts have been recognised by the red dot design awards for their excellence in the � eld of design – amongst them, the LM960V TV, which leads LG’s new CINEMA 3D Smart TV line-up for 2012, the new Magic Remote and the A++ rated Bottom Freezer Refrigerator (mod-el number: GB5240AVAZ) incorporating LG’s Linear Compressor technology.

Whirlpool Corporation has been rec-ognised as one of Fortune Magazine’s ‘World’s Most Admired Companies’ in the Home Equipment, Furnishings industry sector, gaining a � rst in the category for the second year in a row.

A restructure at BskyB has led to the ap-pointment of Brendan Hegarty (pictured) as head of independ-ent retail, a newly created position. He-garty joined BskyB in January this year from mobile phone operator Orange, where he was head of retail trading.

Armour Home Electronics has ap-pointed Jack Fox (pic-tured) to the role of Product Manager for the NAD brand. He will report to Alex Munro, Armour’s Channel Director for Consumer Products.

De’Longhi has invested a six-� gure sum in a new advertising campaign to raise awareness and educate consum-ers on its Bean to Cup coffee machines. The initiative, devised to maintain the brand’s number one position in the cof-fee machine market, runs into May with display advertising featuring in print and digital media.

with leading retailers, including retra, to discuss how they can support the drive to digital radio.

DRUK fi rst announced the £10 million investment in the consumer campaign to promote digital radio at the beginning of December 2011.

THE WORD | INDUSTRY NEWS

13MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

Paradigm Shift launches to UK indiesWith a mission “to give independent retailers exclusive brand differentiation in the crowded headphone and loudspeaker markets,” Canadian brand Paradigm Shift is launching selected products in the UK in April, initially featuring in-ear headphones from £50 to £130 and active PC and home mini-monitor loudspeakers. Paradigm Shift is a sub-brand of loudspeaker giant Paradigm, Canada’s largest loudspeaker brand, and is positioned at entry-to-mid level with a growing portfolio of products aimed at younger, dynamic sectors of the audio market.

Products will be available from UK distributor Anthem AV Solutions, which was set up in 2008 to bring installers and high-end consumer electronics retailers exclusive products from big name brands such as Paradigm and its sister company Anthem. It has a dedicated technical support team as well as regional account managers to offer assistance at a local level. Unlike many distributors, the company has its own UK service centre.

Anthem AVS’s sales director Tom Garrett said: “Quality headphones and active mini-monitor loudspeakers are two growth areas of the UK audio market, yet both sectors are crowded with me-too products and often available to retailers from a

number of different sources. This leads to disorderly marketing and high street retailers having to compete with the likes of discount Ebay sellers with no overheads or demonstration facilities. The Paradigm Shift brand is exclusively distributed in the UK by Anthem AVS and will only be sold to authorised dealers. We really want to leverage independent retailers for their experience and expertise in demonstrating quality products and selling quality brands on the High Street. As an added bene� t, retailers that take on the Paradigm Shift products can also have access to Paradigm’s loudspeakers, including its TV sound bars – the only other growth area in home audio.”

The Paradigm Shift brand of� cially launched to consumers at the Gadget Show Live, at the Birmingham NEC, and Anthem AVS will support the launch with extensive POS materials for retailers and consumer reviews of products across the UK press. Interested retailers should contact Anthem AVS on 01825 750 858 or info@anthemavs.co.uk

AEG shows “global innovations” at Spring launchThe biggest attention-grabber at AEG’s press launch event in March was the new AEG Ergorapido® 2 in 1 with BRUSHROLLCLEAN™ technology. Ergorapido is already established as a stylish cordless stick vacuum cleaner range, and AEG has chosen the latest version of this iconic cleaner as the fi rst to be fi tted with an exclusive, patented innovation that addresses and solves for the fi rst time what has been a problem for vacuum cleaners with a brush roller ever since their invention.

The BRUSHROLLCLEAN™ technology, at the touch of a footswitch (see picture), removes those long fi bres and hairs that twine themselves around the brush roll, chops them into pieces and sucks them into the dust container. Any consumer who has spent time with a blade or scissors hand-removing these hairs and fi bres will instantly recognise the benefi ts of this technology, and all retailers will instantly recognise the sales potential of demonstrating these benefi ts in-store.

The new Ergorapido® range of cordless, bagless cyclonic rechargeables comes in four stylish colours with 12-volt

nickel battery, 20-minute run time in quiet mode and 180-degree head rotation, and is available from April at an RRP of £169.99. Also available in April in three distinctive colours with 18V high performance lithium battery for longer running time (35 minutes) and faster re-charge is the Ergorapido Lithium range with an RRP of £199.99.

Also on show at the event were the award-winning AEG Ultraone® bagged cylinder cleaner with ultra-quiet operation and top-scoring performance, and the new highly featured Ultraperformer™ true cyclonic bagless cleaner range featuring the top-end “Pet” model.

AEG’s partnership with Lavazza has produced the A Modo Mio Favola compact capsule coff ee maker range in a choice of fresh, modern colours. And AEG’s commitment to quiet appliances has produced the Powermix Silent Blender, a highly featured machine with the added advantage of being “the quietest blender ever,” allowing normal conversation to be maintained while it’s in operation. It is available in Antique Steel, or in Deep Aubergine with an accessory blending kit.

BRUSHROLL CLEANED OF LONG HAIR AND FIBRES AT THE TOUCH OF A FOOTSWITCH

Home-tek Europe calls on independent retailersHome-tek Europe has launched a drive to sign up independent electrical retailers as part of its business growth strategy. The West Yorkshire-based supplier of fl oorcare products, branded kitchen appliances and audio products is looking for retailers committed to demonstrating the features and benefi ts of its ranges via the opportunity products off er to create ‘theatre’ in-store.

Jamie Lennox, Home-tek Europe’s managing director, said: “Traditionally, small appliances have been the second-class citizens of the electrical industry, a product category that nobody seemed to think important, but that perception is changing.”

Lennox’s view is supported by fi gures from industry analyst GfK who has reported that small appliances have continued to show growth at a time when some product areas have struggled to maintain it and others have seen record declines.

Home-tek can be contacted on: 08452 100888 / www.hometek.co.uk

THE WORD | INDUSTRY NEWS

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED12

Belling unveils 100 Collection to celebrate centenary yearGDHA cooking brand Belling has launched a range of limited edition cooking appliances to mark its centenary year. Unveiled at an exclusive London preview event, the new ‘100 Collection’ comprises freestanding ovens, range cookers, built-in ovens and a new-look Baby Belling, styled in a brilliant white fi nish with chrome accents to achieve a clean-lined, eye-catching look.

“In putting together the 100 Collection we wanted to create a range of products across all cooking categories that celebrated our heritage as a great British brand whilst also looking to the future,” commented Denver Hewlett, Chief Executive of Belling. “The result is a collection combining some of our most successful products with a limited edition, super-modern fi nish.”

A contribution from sales of the 100 Collection will be made to Belling’s charity of the year, Anthony Nolan, a pioneering charity that aims to save the lives of people with blood cancer who need blood stem cell or bone marrow transplants. Hewlett said the brand was proud to be supporting the charity and the contribution from sales of the new collection would be supplemented with a number of other fundraising activities.

retra “incensed” by new digital radio campaignIndustry body retra has spoken out after being informed that the new Digital Radio UK (DRUK)-led campaign will totally exclude independent retailers. retra said in a press statement that it understands a new campaign will off er consumers a percentage discount on digital radios – but only in multiple retail outlets.

Bryan Lovewell, retra’s chief executive, said he was “incensed” when he heard that the price promotion will bypass independents. “I am very disappointed that my members have not been included as part of the campaign, which comes after a large amount of work that retra has done alongside DRUK.

“Digital radio switchover, like digital TV switchover before it, off ers retailers a formidable opportunity in what is a depressed market; discounting products benefi ts the consumer, but does nothing for the retailer. retra’s retail membership consists of more than 1,800 outlets across the UK and I am dismayed that a promotion has completely bypassed independent retailers.

“I would like an immediate meeting with Ford Ennals and his management team to explain why my members have been forgotten by DRUK’s actions.”

DRUK, in an earlier press statement, had confi rmed that Broadcast Minister Ed Vaizey had met

Cromwell supports local talentJames Waples and Matt Froggett are to join software company Cromwell Business Systems as trainees, following their success at a series of workshops run by the business to recruit local students.

The workshops are operated in conjunction with a Cambridge 6th form college and attended by A and AS level students interested in technology. Waples and Froggett were two of the ten who took part in the most recent series.

Cromwell Commercial Director Sonu Kundi said: “As a very successful company we feel in a position to put back something into the industry in this way. We are very pleased at how well attended our student workshops have been and with the very high standard of the candidates attending, all of whom have numerous A and A* grades. We are delighted that James and Matt will be joining us shortly as trainees.”

Fourteen of LG Electronics’ 2012 prod-ucts have been recognised by the red dot design awards for their excellence in the � eld of design – amongst them, the LM960V TV, which leads LG’s new CINEMA 3D Smart TV line-up for 2012, the new Magic Remote and the A++ rated Bottom Freezer Refrigerator (mod-el number: GB5240AVAZ) incorporating LG’s Linear Compressor technology.

Whirlpool Corporation has been rec-ognised as one of Fortune Magazine’s ‘World’s Most Admired Companies’ in the Home Equipment, Furnishings industry sector, gaining a � rst in the category for the second year in a row.

A restructure at BskyB has led to the ap-pointment of Brendan Hegarty (pictured) as head of independ-ent retail, a newly created position. He-garty joined BskyB in January this year from mobile phone operator Orange, where he was head of retail trading.

Armour Home Electronics has ap-pointed Jack Fox (pic-tured) to the role of Product Manager for the NAD brand. He will report to Alex Munro, Armour’s Channel Director for Consumer Products.

De’Longhi has invested a six-� gure sum in a new advertising campaign to raise awareness and educate consum-ers on its Bean to Cup coffee machines. The initiative, devised to maintain the brand’s number one position in the cof-fee machine market, runs into May with display advertising featuring in print and digital media.

with leading retailers, including retra, to discuss how they can support the drive to digital radio.

DRUK fi rst announced the £10 million investment in the consumer campaign to promote digital radio at the beginning of December 2011.

THE WORD | INDUSTRY NEWS

13MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

Paradigm Shift launches to UK indiesWith a mission “to give independent retailers exclusive brand differentiation in the crowded headphone and loudspeaker markets,” Canadian brand Paradigm Shift is launching selected products in the UK in April, initially featuring in-ear headphones from £50 to £130 and active PC and home mini-monitor loudspeakers. Paradigm Shift is a sub-brand of loudspeaker giant Paradigm, Canada’s largest loudspeaker brand, and is positioned at entry-to-mid level with a growing portfolio of products aimed at younger, dynamic sectors of the audio market.

Products will be available from UK distributor Anthem AV Solutions, which was set up in 2008 to bring installers and high-end consumer electronics retailers exclusive products from big name brands such as Paradigm and its sister company Anthem. It has a dedicated technical support team as well as regional account managers to offer assistance at a local level. Unlike many distributors, the company has its own UK service centre.

Anthem AVS’s sales director Tom Garrett said: “Quality headphones and active mini-monitor loudspeakers are two growth areas of the UK audio market, yet both sectors are crowded with me-too products and often available to retailers from a

number of different sources. This leads to disorderly marketing and high street retailers having to compete with the likes of discount Ebay sellers with no overheads or demonstration facilities. The Paradigm Shift brand is exclusively distributed in the UK by Anthem AVS and will only be sold to authorised dealers. We really want to leverage independent retailers for their experience and expertise in demonstrating quality products and selling quality brands on the High Street. As an added bene� t, retailers that take on the Paradigm Shift products can also have access to Paradigm’s loudspeakers, including its TV sound bars – the only other growth area in home audio.”

The Paradigm Shift brand of� cially launched to consumers at the Gadget Show Live, at the Birmingham NEC, and Anthem AVS will support the launch with extensive POS materials for retailers and consumer reviews of products across the UK press. Interested retailers should contact Anthem AVS on 01825 750 858 or info@anthemavs.co.uk

AEG shows “global innovations” at Spring launchThe biggest attention-grabber at AEG’s press launch event in March was the new AEG Ergorapido® 2 in 1 with BRUSHROLLCLEAN™ technology. Ergorapido is already established as a stylish cordless stick vacuum cleaner range, and AEG has chosen the latest version of this iconic cleaner as the fi rst to be fi tted with an exclusive, patented innovation that addresses and solves for the fi rst time what has been a problem for vacuum cleaners with a brush roller ever since their invention.

The BRUSHROLLCLEAN™ technology, at the touch of a footswitch (see picture), removes those long fi bres and hairs that twine themselves around the brush roll, chops them into pieces and sucks them into the dust container. Any consumer who has spent time with a blade or scissors hand-removing these hairs and fi bres will instantly recognise the benefi ts of this technology, and all retailers will instantly recognise the sales potential of demonstrating these benefi ts in-store.

The new Ergorapido® range of cordless, bagless cyclonic rechargeables comes in four stylish colours with 12-volt

nickel battery, 20-minute run time in quiet mode and 180-degree head rotation, and is available from April at an RRP of £169.99. Also available in April in three distinctive colours with 18V high performance lithium battery for longer running time (35 minutes) and faster re-charge is the Ergorapido Lithium range with an RRP of £199.99.

Also on show at the event were the award-winning AEG Ultraone® bagged cylinder cleaner with ultra-quiet operation and top-scoring performance, and the new highly featured Ultraperformer™ true cyclonic bagless cleaner range featuring the top-end “Pet” model.

AEG’s partnership with Lavazza has produced the A Modo Mio Favola compact capsule coff ee maker range in a choice of fresh, modern colours. And AEG’s commitment to quiet appliances has produced the Powermix Silent Blender, a highly featured machine with the added advantage of being “the quietest blender ever,” allowing normal conversation to be maintained while it’s in operation. It is available in Antique Steel, or in Deep Aubergine with an accessory blending kit.

BRUSHROLL CLEANED OF LONG HAIR AND FIBRES AT THE TOUCH OF A FOOTSWITCH

Home-tek Europe calls on independent retailersHome-tek Europe has launched a drive to sign up independent electrical retailers as part of its business growth strategy. The West Yorkshire-based supplier of fl oorcare products, branded kitchen appliances and audio products is looking for retailers committed to demonstrating the features and benefi ts of its ranges via the opportunity products off er to create ‘theatre’ in-store.

Jamie Lennox, Home-tek Europe’s managing director, said: “Traditionally, small appliances have been the second-class citizens of the electrical industry, a product category that nobody seemed to think important, but that perception is changing.”

Lennox’s view is supported by fi gures from industry analyst GfK who has reported that small appliances have continued to show growth at a time when some product areas have struggled to maintain it and others have seen record declines.

Home-tek can be contacted on: 08452 100888 / www.hometek.co.uk

THE WORD | INDUSTRY NEWS

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED14

Growth from Knowledge

GROWTH FROM KNOWLEDGE

Consumer Electronics suff ering but “connectivity” advancing

The year to February 2012 has been a diffi cult one for the overall Consumer Electronics market in the UK, and the vital fl at panel TV sector suff ered a 20% decline compared to the 12 months ended February 2011. But 3D technology is showing growth, and the world of “smart” TV and internet interconnectivity has found growing numbers of enthusiastic adopters. GfK account executive Lucy Twist reports.

CE under pressure

T he consumer electronics industry has continued its decline into 2012, with the total value for the latest 12 month

period (to February 2012) standing at –19%. This has largely been driven by a delay in replacement of big-ticket items, in particular fl at screen TVs, which showed a 20% decline.

New technology boostHowever, the uptake of new technology has remained positive, with sets including the Web Content Access feature accounting for 36% of the market value, up from 25% in the previous 12 month period. 3D technology has also shown growth, with 3D taking a quarter of the value of the total TV market in the last 12 months, up from 8% the year before. This has been fuelled by aggressive pricing in the larger screen sizes, resulting in the average price of 3D sets falling by 35% over the last year.

LED strengthThere has been a progressive movement towards larger screen TVs, with 24% of the value of the market coming from 43” and above screens, up from only 17% in the previous 12 months. LED technology has seen a strong uptake, representing 44% of the value of the market in the latest 12 months. This is up from 20% value share in the previous year.

The growth areas (12 months to February 2012 compared to previous 12 month period):

Media Gateways* Grown 142% in value Year on Year

Audio Streamers Grown 43% in value Year on Year

Webbooks Grown 353% in Volume Year on Year

Smartphones Grown 28% in Volume Year on Year

Value share of Web Content Access in TV/Set-Top-Box/DVD markets combined has grown from 25% to 34%

“3D technology has also shown growth, with 3D taking a quarter of the value of the total TV market in the last 12 months, up from 8% the year before. ”

*NOTE: Media gateways are translation devices or services that convert digital media streams between diff erent communications networks such as PSTN, SS7, 2G, 2.5G, 3G and PBX. They enable multimedia communications across Next Generation Networks over multiple transport protocols such as ATM and IP.

GfK. Growth from Knowledge

Flair for repairA great customer experience doesn’t just come down to fantastic products. At Domestic

& General we understand how excellent after-sales care will improve customer loyalty

to your brand. And with a 94% post-repair satisfaction rate, we’re expert at giving our

customers and our partners something to smile about.

contact@domesticandgeneral.com

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED14

Growth from Knowledge

GROWTH FROM KNOWLEDGE

Consumer Electronics suff ering but “connectivity” advancing

The year to February 2012 has been a diffi cult one for the overall Consumer Electronics market in the UK, and the vital fl at panel TV sector suff ered a 20% decline compared to the 12 months ended February 2011. But 3D technology is showing growth, and the world of “smart” TV and internet interconnectivity has found growing numbers of enthusiastic adopters. GfK account executive Lucy Twist reports.

CE under pressure

T he consumer electronics industry has continued its decline into 2012, with the total value for the latest 12 month

period (to February 2012) standing at –19%. This has largely been driven by a delay in replacement of big-ticket items, in particular fl at screen TVs, which showed a 20% decline.

New technology boostHowever, the uptake of new technology has remained positive, with sets including the Web Content Access feature accounting for 36% of the market value, up from 25% in the previous 12 month period. 3D technology has also shown growth, with 3D taking a quarter of the value of the total TV market in the last 12 months, up from 8% the year before. This has been fuelled by aggressive pricing in the larger screen sizes, resulting in the average price of 3D sets falling by 35% over the last year.

LED strengthThere has been a progressive movement towards larger screen TVs, with 24% of the value of the market coming from 43” and above screens, up from only 17% in the previous 12 months. LED technology has seen a strong uptake, representing 44% of the value of the market in the latest 12 months. This is up from 20% value share in the previous year.

The growth areas (12 months to February 2012 compared to previous 12 month period):

Media Gateways* Grown 142% in value Year on Year

Audio Streamers Grown 43% in value Year on Year

Webbooks Grown 353% in Volume Year on Year

Smartphones Grown 28% in Volume Year on Year

Value share of Web Content Access in TV/Set-Top-Box/DVD markets combined has grown from 25% to 34%

“3D technology has also shown growth, with 3D taking a quarter of the value of the total TV market in the last 12 months, up from 8% the year before. ”

*NOTE: Media gateways are translation devices or services that convert digital media streams between diff erent communications networks such as PSTN, SS7, 2G, 2.5G, 3G and PBX. They enable multimedia communications across Next Generation Networks over multiple transport protocols such as ATM and IP.

GfK. Growth from Knowledge

Flair for repairA great customer experience doesn’t just come down to fantastic products. At Domestic

& General we understand how excellent after-sales care will improve customer loyalty

to your brand. And with a 94% post-repair satisfaction rate, we’re expert at giving our

customers and our partners something to smile about.

contact@domesticandgeneral.com

GET CONNECTED16 MARCH/APRIL 2012

Gorenje CFA9100E built-in coffee machine

The CFA9100E built-in coff ee machine is the latest addition to Gorenje’s portfolio of appliances. The unit creates drinks in a variety of strengths and cup sizes and settings can be stored in memory for future use. An ‘Autocappuccino’ function creates the frothy beverage at the touch of a button and lets users set the level of milk according to their personal preferences. The appliance performs an automatic clean when switched on and has separate antibacterial and de-scaling programmes.

¿ 9 levels of coff ee grind / 15-bar pressure

¿ LCD display with touch buttons / Automatic lighting of spot and drip tray

¿ Allows two cups to be prepared simultaneously

¿ Removable milk container / 1.8 litre removable water tank

¿ Maximum noise level 60 dB(A)

¿ Free 2-year parts and labour guarantee

0208 247 3980 www.gorenje.co.uk

BEST from Britannia ‘Shelf’ cooker hoodThe BEST from Britannia cooker hood range has been extended with the addition of three premium models, one of which, the new ‘Shelf’ extractor, has a unique, futuristic design fi nished in stainless steel and operates on a ducted out or recycled basis. The high-performance unit has 715 m3/h airfl ow and 4 speed settings.

¿ Wall mounted / 800mm wide

¿ Electronic controls / 2 x 20W halogen lights

¿ Max noise level 67dB / Min noise level 48dB

¿ Stainless steel grease fi lter

01253 471001 www.besthoods.co.uk

Kenwood True hand blenderKenwood has introduced its TriBlade technology to a new range of True hand blenders. TriBlade comprises a three-blade system allied to a unique foot design that disrupts the fl ow of ingredients to deliver powerful and controllable blending. The new appliance is billed as the ‘next generation’ hand blender. Model ref: HB681 features:

¿ 450W motor / 2 speeds (incl. turbo)

¿ 0.5L calibrated beaker / 0.5L calibrated chopper

¿ Blending attachment / Dishwasher-safe parts

¿ Central top cord exit

0239 239 2333 www.kenwoodworld.com/uk

Rangemaster Beverage CentresRangemaster is promoting its Beverage Centres as the ideal solution for keeping all kinds of drinks chilled for revellers celebrating the forthcoming Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Olympic Games. Both models accommodate a selection of various sized bottles and cans – the 60.7cm wide unit, suitable for under-counter or freestanding installation, has the capacity to hold 14 wine bottles and 133 cans; the slim-line 38cm version holds 4 wine bottles and 72 cans.

¿ Flexible storage layout

¿ Double-glazed picture window with UV fi lter

¿ MicroSentry™ temperature monitoring system

¿ Temperature control up to 18.3°C

¿ Self-close door hinge

¿ Available in classic black or stainless steel

0870 789 5107 www.rangemaster.co.uk

17GET CONNECTEDMARCH/APRIL 2012

Philips 7000 series 3D LED Smart TVPhilips has unveiled the fi rst of its new TVs for 2012 with four ranges covering the budget to mid sector of the market. At the top end of this release of products is the 7000 series, active shutter 3D LED models with advanced Smart TV functionality, available in 40”, 46” and 55” sizes and incorporating Philips Pixel Precise HD processing, 800Hz Perfect Motion Rate and active shutter 3D Max system. Units also feature two-sided Ambilight.

¿ 2 x 20Watt (RMS) surround sound

¿ MyRemote App, USB keyboard and mouse support, DLNA media browser, USB recording

¿ 5 x HDMI, 3 USB, embedded WiFi, Easylink (HDMI-CEC)

¿ 2 player full screen gaming, 3D depth adjustment, 2D to 3D conversion

¿ 1x 3D glasses, text entry remote control, tabletop swivel stand

01293 773128 www.philips.com/tv

Hotpoint Ultima FDUD4411 dishwasherHotpoint’s latest full-size freestanding dishwashers set new standards for the brand in low water usage and improved energy effi ciency. The new Ultima FDUD4411 uses just 7 litres of water for 14 place settings and is claimed to be the best on the market in its category. The unit is A+ rated for energy effi ciency and available in stainless steel or polar white.

¿ Flexiload interior with removable third tray in upper basket

¿ Flexipower motor with sensor control of wash variables

¿ 12 programmes include Speed 25, Eco wash 45°, Delicates, Baby Cycle, Half Load

¿ 24-hour delay start / 42db noise level

08000 921922 www.hotpoint.co.uk

Omnimount PLAY wall mountsThree full motion TV wall mounts launched by OmniMount as part of its ActionMount series are designed to be particularly suitable for interactive gaming and exercising. Each mount features post-installation levelling, tilt and pan and cable management.

¿ PLAY40: 60”-plus TVs with panel weight not exceeding 40 pounds

¿ PLAY20: Up to 32” TVs, panel weight 20 pounds

¿ PLAY20X comes with 9” arm extension for greater viewing fl exibility (spec as PLAY 20)

0800 210 0675 www.omnimount.com

Onkyo T-4070 Network Tuner This latest Network Tuner from Onkyo is equipped with Apple AirPlay, Spotify, FM and DAB+ radio and wireless audio streaming and is said to be the best specifi ed model in this fast-growing sector. The unit is intended to complete the Onkyo ‘Reference Series’ stereo component system and includes separate Wolfson 192 kHz/24-bit DACs for each channel, DIDRC noise-reduction circuitry, gold plated RCA, AES/EBU, and coaxial terminals.

¿ DLNA-Certifi ed Home Network Capability

¿ Direct Digital Connection of iPod/iPhone and Flash Memory via USB Port

¿ Onkyo Remote Apps for iPod touch/iPhone and Android

¿ Available in black or silver

01628 473350 www.onkyo.co.uk

AEG 5SafetyTM ironAEG’s expanding range of small appliances now includes the high-powered 5SafetyTM iron, available in three variations. 2600W model ref: DB8060 (£69.99) with 400ml water tank provides up to 150grams of steam from 605 holes in just one shot and has a RESILIUMTM SUPERIOR glide scratch-resistant sole plate. The upright steam feature steams and refreshes hanging garments such as shirts and jackets and the appliance has a variable steam output of 0-45g/min.

¿ Rubber safe-grip handle

¿ 4activePower Auto Steam function / Drip stop system

¿ Water level indicator on rear and sides

¿ Auto-clean, built-in permanent anti-calc cartridge

¿ 360° swivel 3m textile cord with storage option

08445 614614 www.aeg.co.uk

GET CONNECTED16 MARCH/APRIL 2012

Gorenje CFA9100E built-in coffee machine

The CFA9100E built-in coff ee machine is the latest addition to Gorenje’s portfolio of appliances. The unit creates drinks in a variety of strengths and cup sizes and settings can be stored in memory for future use. An ‘Autocappuccino’ function creates the frothy beverage at the touch of a button and lets users set the level of milk according to their personal preferences. The appliance performs an automatic clean when switched on and has separate antibacterial and de-scaling programmes.

¿ 9 levels of coff ee grind / 15-bar pressure

¿ LCD display with touch buttons / Automatic lighting of spot and drip tray

¿ Allows two cups to be prepared simultaneously

¿ Removable milk container / 1.8 litre removable water tank

¿ Maximum noise level 60 dB(A)

¿ Free 2-year parts and labour guarantee

0208 247 3980 www.gorenje.co.uk

BEST from Britannia ‘Shelf’ cooker hoodThe BEST from Britannia cooker hood range has been extended with the addition of three premium models, one of which, the new ‘Shelf’ extractor, has a unique, futuristic design fi nished in stainless steel and operates on a ducted out or recycled basis. The high-performance unit has 715 m3/h airfl ow and 4 speed settings.

¿ Wall mounted / 800mm wide

¿ Electronic controls / 2 x 20W halogen lights

¿ Max noise level 67dB / Min noise level 48dB

¿ Stainless steel grease fi lter

01253 471001 www.besthoods.co.uk

Kenwood True hand blenderKenwood has introduced its TriBlade technology to a new range of True hand blenders. TriBlade comprises a three-blade system allied to a unique foot design that disrupts the fl ow of ingredients to deliver powerful and controllable blending. The new appliance is billed as the ‘next generation’ hand blender. Model ref: HB681 features:

¿ 450W motor / 2 speeds (incl. turbo)

¿ 0.5L calibrated beaker / 0.5L calibrated chopper

¿ Blending attachment / Dishwasher-safe parts

¿ Central top cord exit

0239 239 2333 www.kenwoodworld.com/uk

Rangemaster Beverage CentresRangemaster is promoting its Beverage Centres as the ideal solution for keeping all kinds of drinks chilled for revellers celebrating the forthcoming Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Olympic Games. Both models accommodate a selection of various sized bottles and cans – the 60.7cm wide unit, suitable for under-counter or freestanding installation, has the capacity to hold 14 wine bottles and 133 cans; the slim-line 38cm version holds 4 wine bottles and 72 cans.

¿ Flexible storage layout

¿ Double-glazed picture window with UV fi lter

¿ MicroSentry™ temperature monitoring system

¿ Temperature control up to 18.3°C

¿ Self-close door hinge

¿ Available in classic black or stainless steel

0870 789 5107 www.rangemaster.co.uk

17GET CONNECTEDMARCH/APRIL 2012

Philips 7000 series 3D LED Smart TVPhilips has unveiled the fi rst of its new TVs for 2012 with four ranges covering the budget to mid sector of the market. At the top end of this release of products is the 7000 series, active shutter 3D LED models with advanced Smart TV functionality, available in 40”, 46” and 55” sizes and incorporating Philips Pixel Precise HD processing, 800Hz Perfect Motion Rate and active shutter 3D Max system. Units also feature two-sided Ambilight.

¿ 2 x 20Watt (RMS) surround sound

¿ MyRemote App, USB keyboard and mouse support, DLNA media browser, USB recording

¿ 5 x HDMI, 3 USB, embedded WiFi, Easylink (HDMI-CEC)

¿ 2 player full screen gaming, 3D depth adjustment, 2D to 3D conversion

¿ 1x 3D glasses, text entry remote control, tabletop swivel stand

01293 773128 www.philips.com/tv

Hotpoint Ultima FDUD4411 dishwasherHotpoint’s latest full-size freestanding dishwashers set new standards for the brand in low water usage and improved energy effi ciency. The new Ultima FDUD4411 uses just 7 litres of water for 14 place settings and is claimed to be the best on the market in its category. The unit is A+ rated for energy effi ciency and available in stainless steel or polar white.

¿ Flexiload interior with removable third tray in upper basket

¿ Flexipower motor with sensor control of wash variables

¿ 12 programmes include Speed 25, Eco wash 45°, Delicates, Baby Cycle, Half Load

¿ 24-hour delay start / 42db noise level

08000 921922 www.hotpoint.co.uk

Omnimount PLAY wall mountsThree full motion TV wall mounts launched by OmniMount as part of its ActionMount series are designed to be particularly suitable for interactive gaming and exercising. Each mount features post-installation levelling, tilt and pan and cable management.

¿ PLAY40: 60”-plus TVs with panel weight not exceeding 40 pounds

¿ PLAY20: Up to 32” TVs, panel weight 20 pounds

¿ PLAY20X comes with 9” arm extension for greater viewing fl exibility (spec as PLAY 20)

0800 210 0675 www.omnimount.com

Onkyo T-4070 Network Tuner This latest Network Tuner from Onkyo is equipped with Apple AirPlay, Spotify, FM and DAB+ radio and wireless audio streaming and is said to be the best specifi ed model in this fast-growing sector. The unit is intended to complete the Onkyo ‘Reference Series’ stereo component system and includes separate Wolfson 192 kHz/24-bit DACs for each channel, DIDRC noise-reduction circuitry, gold plated RCA, AES/EBU, and coaxial terminals.

¿ DLNA-Certifi ed Home Network Capability

¿ Direct Digital Connection of iPod/iPhone and Flash Memory via USB Port

¿ Onkyo Remote Apps for iPod touch/iPhone and Android

¿ Available in black or silver

01628 473350 www.onkyo.co.uk

AEG 5SafetyTM ironAEG’s expanding range of small appliances now includes the high-powered 5SafetyTM iron, available in three variations. 2600W model ref: DB8060 (£69.99) with 400ml water tank provides up to 150grams of steam from 605 holes in just one shot and has a RESILIUMTM SUPERIOR glide scratch-resistant sole plate. The upright steam feature steams and refreshes hanging garments such as shirts and jackets and the appliance has a variable steam output of 0-45g/min.

¿ Rubber safe-grip handle

¿ 4activePower Auto Steam function / Drip stop system

¿ Water level indicator on rear and sides

¿ Auto-clean, built-in permanent anti-calc cartridge

¿ 360° swivel 3m textile cord with storage option

08445 614614 www.aeg.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED18

COOLING

17th Century Britain: a time when rivers, lakes and canals froze deeply enough to support the fun pastime of skating and the � rst Frost Fair was held on the river Thames. The nation was in the grip of what was later dubbed ‘The Little Ice Age’ – a protracted period of cooling that engulfed the Northern Hemisphere for a number of centuries.

It was during the 17th Century that the concept of the icehouse was brought to the UK. Society’s well-heeled fi gures, great estate and

manor house owners commissioned the building of such structures: outdoor chambers in which ice harvested from local rivers and lakes was stored for the purpose of preserving perishable foodstuff s and chilling drinks.

The practice progressed, and an industry born through the trading of ice fl ourished until the early 20th Century. The UK is known to have imported ice from Scandinavia for commercial and domestic use; and further afi eld, in the US, for example, fortunes are said to have been made by merchants who shipped large volumes of ice to other parts of the world.

Time shift…21st Century Britain: the ice merchants have long moved on, and the manner in which we store food seems a world away from the primitive, insulated domed caverns of old – the domestic refrigerator having become a commonplace feature in everyday households from the mid 20th Century onwards. Yet a worrying problem exists: 7.2 million tonnes of food a year is wasted in the UK. That’s around a fi fth of all food purchased. Avoidable household food waste – i.e. food that could have been eaten – is estimated by WRAP (Waste Resources Action Programme) to be 4.4 million tonnes annually.

The fact that the above fi gure has fallen 18% from 5.3 million in the past three years suggests that the extent of the problem has entered the consumer psyche. Hardly surprising, as a stark feature of this particular period is the inequality incurred through economic disorder and disparity in a nation where the rich get richer, the poor poorer and the hardworking middle seems resigned to the ongoing prospect of diminishing disposable incomes. Yet, despite the amount of edible produce thrown away by a more vigilant society declining by 950,000 tonnes, households have gained no fi nancial advantage as it is still costing us about the same per annum – i.e. £12 billion – because food infl ation has grown by around 20% over the same three-year period.

Clearly, the answer to this problem lies in better food management.

Inside the

The long journey of food preservation…

“Food preservation features and air� ow boosters are the key functions that can actually have an impact on the effectiveness and usability of a fridge” David Garden, Commercial Director for Lec

THE A++ RATED COOLDELUXE FROM NEFF

19MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

Taking controlLast summer, LG Electronics produced an independent report which revealed that more than half of Britain’s households waste at least 10% of the food they buy and a fi fth waste over 25%. The study highlighted the opportunity for retailers to promote refrigeration appliances that incorporate temperature- and humidity-controlled compartments for keeping meat, fi sh, fruit and vegetables fresher for longer. Celebrity chef Simon Rimmer commented on the research at the time. He said: “There are plenty of new technologies, especially in refrigeration, that can really help to combat any wastage problems. Food wastage is a huge issue in the UK but it’s really very simple to avoid.”

The solution, believes LG Marketing Communications Manager for Home Appliances, Dawn Stockell, is in understanding more about consumers’ lifestyle needs. “This is key to pointing them towards their ideal cooling appliance. As well as the physical product requirements, it’s also important to understand about food preservation,” she says. “Knowing what people eat/store can assist retailers in presenting the most suitable products for their particular needs.”

Stockell also notes the emphasis on healthy eating and consumers’ tendency towards the purchase of greater amounts of fresh foodstuff s. And while capacity is an all-important factor in addressing this trend, so too is the need for defi ned areas which store diff erent items at ideal temperatures that will keep them fresher for longer. She notes that “LG’s Fresh-0-Zone compartment remains at zero degrees, keeping meat and fi sh at the optimum temperature, and our Moist Balance Crisper maintains the correct balance of moisture for storing vegetables.”

A study commissioned by Whirlpool Europe also highlights the need for better food preservation. 59% of people surveyed by the appliance manufacturer said that they buy much more in the way of fresh foodstuff s, while 35% claimed to be concerned about food wastage and were making an eff ort to reduce the amount they throw away. “This again re-enforces the message that food preservation is becoming more and more important and defi nitely has an impact on the type of cooling product a consumer will choose,” says Dean McKelvie, Product Marketing Manager for Freestanding.

Behind the scenesWhirlpool’s answer to the storage of fresh meat and fi sh is the introduction of Active0° – a specially designed drawer compartment that McKelvie says can be classifi ed as “a fridge within a fridge.” Active0° technology ensures better preservation of taste, appearance and nutrients, as meat and fi sh are stored at the best temperature of 0°C, he explains. Humidity is also constantly monitored and kept at the “perfect level” of between 85% and 95%.

But keeping food in good condition for longer is not as easy as it sounds, advises McKelvie. “It is not as simple as just lowering the temperature. Extending the quality and lengthening food storage times is the aim of Whirlpool’s new 6th Sense® Fresh Control technology, as seen on our WBC3546A+NFCW. This is achieved through the precise and constant control of temperature and humidity levels throughout the entire refrigerated cabinet and not just in one specifi ed humidity-controlled drawer.”

Whirlpool claims that its new 6th Sense® Fresh Control will keep ham, for example, fresher for four days longer, spinach three days longer and pears up to seventeen days longer. “This is a great convenience and resource saving for today’s busy consumer,” McKelvie says, while emphasising that “developments in food preservation technology help boost sales and present a superb trade-up opportunity for the enterprising retailer.”

In order to make the most of trade-up opportunities in the cooling market, Smeg Product Development and Training Manager Joan Fraser urges retailers to ensure that they are confi dent in their product knowledge.

COOLING

BEKO’S GNE114610X FRIDGE FREEZER WITH ‘BLUE LIGHT’ TECHNOLOGY

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED18

COOLING

17th Century Britain: a time when rivers, lakes and canals froze deeply enough to support the fun pastime of skating and the � rst Frost Fair was held on the river Thames. The nation was in the grip of what was later dubbed ‘The Little Ice Age’ – a protracted period of cooling that engulfed the Northern Hemisphere for a number of centuries.

It was during the 17th Century that the concept of the icehouse was brought to the UK. Society’s well-heeled fi gures, great estate and

manor house owners commissioned the building of such structures: outdoor chambers in which ice harvested from local rivers and lakes was stored for the purpose of preserving perishable foodstuff s and chilling drinks.

The practice progressed, and an industry born through the trading of ice fl ourished until the early 20th Century. The UK is known to have imported ice from Scandinavia for commercial and domestic use; and further afi eld, in the US, for example, fortunes are said to have been made by merchants who shipped large volumes of ice to other parts of the world.

Time shift…21st Century Britain: the ice merchants have long moved on, and the manner in which we store food seems a world away from the primitive, insulated domed caverns of old – the domestic refrigerator having become a commonplace feature in everyday households from the mid 20th Century onwards. Yet a worrying problem exists: 7.2 million tonnes of food a year is wasted in the UK. That’s around a fi fth of all food purchased. Avoidable household food waste – i.e. food that could have been eaten – is estimated by WRAP (Waste Resources Action Programme) to be 4.4 million tonnes annually.

The fact that the above fi gure has fallen 18% from 5.3 million in the past three years suggests that the extent of the problem has entered the consumer psyche. Hardly surprising, as a stark feature of this particular period is the inequality incurred through economic disorder and disparity in a nation where the rich get richer, the poor poorer and the hardworking middle seems resigned to the ongoing prospect of diminishing disposable incomes. Yet, despite the amount of edible produce thrown away by a more vigilant society declining by 950,000 tonnes, households have gained no fi nancial advantage as it is still costing us about the same per annum – i.e. £12 billion – because food infl ation has grown by around 20% over the same three-year period.

Clearly, the answer to this problem lies in better food management.

Inside the

The long journey of food preservation…

“Food preservation features and air� ow boosters are the key functions that can actually have an impact on the effectiveness and usability of a fridge” David Garden, Commercial Director for Lec

THE A++ RATED COOLDELUXE FROM NEFF

19MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

Taking controlLast summer, LG Electronics produced an independent report which revealed that more than half of Britain’s households waste at least 10% of the food they buy and a fi fth waste over 25%. The study highlighted the opportunity for retailers to promote refrigeration appliances that incorporate temperature- and humidity-controlled compartments for keeping meat, fi sh, fruit and vegetables fresher for longer. Celebrity chef Simon Rimmer commented on the research at the time. He said: “There are plenty of new technologies, especially in refrigeration, that can really help to combat any wastage problems. Food wastage is a huge issue in the UK but it’s really very simple to avoid.”

The solution, believes LG Marketing Communications Manager for Home Appliances, Dawn Stockell, is in understanding more about consumers’ lifestyle needs. “This is key to pointing them towards their ideal cooling appliance. As well as the physical product requirements, it’s also important to understand about food preservation,” she says. “Knowing what people eat/store can assist retailers in presenting the most suitable products for their particular needs.”

Stockell also notes the emphasis on healthy eating and consumers’ tendency towards the purchase of greater amounts of fresh foodstuff s. And while capacity is an all-important factor in addressing this trend, so too is the need for defi ned areas which store diff erent items at ideal temperatures that will keep them fresher for longer. She notes that “LG’s Fresh-0-Zone compartment remains at zero degrees, keeping meat and fi sh at the optimum temperature, and our Moist Balance Crisper maintains the correct balance of moisture for storing vegetables.”

A study commissioned by Whirlpool Europe also highlights the need for better food preservation. 59% of people surveyed by the appliance manufacturer said that they buy much more in the way of fresh foodstuff s, while 35% claimed to be concerned about food wastage and were making an eff ort to reduce the amount they throw away. “This again re-enforces the message that food preservation is becoming more and more important and defi nitely has an impact on the type of cooling product a consumer will choose,” says Dean McKelvie, Product Marketing Manager for Freestanding.

Behind the scenesWhirlpool’s answer to the storage of fresh meat and fi sh is the introduction of Active0° – a specially designed drawer compartment that McKelvie says can be classifi ed as “a fridge within a fridge.” Active0° technology ensures better preservation of taste, appearance and nutrients, as meat and fi sh are stored at the best temperature of 0°C, he explains. Humidity is also constantly monitored and kept at the “perfect level” of between 85% and 95%.

But keeping food in good condition for longer is not as easy as it sounds, advises McKelvie. “It is not as simple as just lowering the temperature. Extending the quality and lengthening food storage times is the aim of Whirlpool’s new 6th Sense® Fresh Control technology, as seen on our WBC3546A+NFCW. This is achieved through the precise and constant control of temperature and humidity levels throughout the entire refrigerated cabinet and not just in one specifi ed humidity-controlled drawer.”

Whirlpool claims that its new 6th Sense® Fresh Control will keep ham, for example, fresher for four days longer, spinach three days longer and pears up to seventeen days longer. “This is a great convenience and resource saving for today’s busy consumer,” McKelvie says, while emphasising that “developments in food preservation technology help boost sales and present a superb trade-up opportunity for the enterprising retailer.”

In order to make the most of trade-up opportunities in the cooling market, Smeg Product Development and Training Manager Joan Fraser urges retailers to ensure that they are confi dent in their product knowledge.

COOLING

BEKO’S GNE114610X FRIDGE FREEZER WITH ‘BLUE LIGHT’ TECHNOLOGY

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED20

“Consumers are often faced with a wall of white fridges and freezers and are not aware of the varying degrees of functionality and what would be best for them. Retailers will be able to capitalise on purchase decisions if they can confi dently specify features and benefi ts.”

Juliana Sado, Brand Marketing Manager at Maytag, encourages store staff to tap into consumers’ lifestyles to advise them on the best type of appliance(s) to purchase. “Find out the type of foods they like to eat, drinks they like to consume, and other general eating habits. And explore their aspirations. If they want a big, black glass ‘in yer face’ fridge then sell them one, with great added value for you!

“Gen up on all the models and brands,” she adds. “There is a rich variety of products, colours and sophisticated systems out there to suit all lifestyles and budgets. Make sure you get the right ones on display and in stock to suit your target audience.”

Cooling demandsConsensus holds that there has been a considerable change in the way consumers shop and manage their food storage: the larder, or pantry, is no longer a feature of everyday kitchens and most people tend to do one big weekly shop, with fewer inclined towards the daily traipse onto the high street to visit independent food purveyors. And, as Hotpoint Marketing Manager Iain Starkey points out, there is a growing trend for food shopping via the internet, which does away with what some consider a time-consuming, burdensome chore. With this shift in shopping habits comes greater demand on cooling appliances, and storage solutions must be fl exible with maximum capacity and effi cient food preservation.

Starkey says that Hotpoint, in developing its new cooling range, carefully studied the changes in consumer lifestyles and recognised an increased focus on food hygiene and the amount of food thrown away. In response, it developed Air Tech Evolution, a system that pushes cool air into the fridge through multiple apertures running the full height of the cabinet. “This achieves perfect temperature control and improved circulation which, in turn, signifi cantly extends the storage life of fresh foods, even soft fruits like strawberries,” he explains.

Gino Grossi, Product Manager for Refrigeration at Samsung UK, also notes increasing consumer awareness of food wastage, “notably since the onset of the recession, when making cost savings started to become more of a strain.” He says that Samsung addresses the

problem in its ‘no frost’ models, which feature Multi Flow cooling vents on every shelf level to create an even temperature throughout the fridge “even after the door has been opened.” Hence, “food is stored in an optimum environment and will stay fresher for longer, reducing the amount of food thrown away as waste and saving consumers money.”

In particular, Grossi recommends products from Samsung’s G-Series range, which incorporates thin-wall insulation technology, for those who tend to take the money-saving benefi ts of off ers such as BOGOFs and multi-buys. “The technology,” he says, “essentially creates extra space inside the refrigerator within a standard footprint and means consumers can store more food, shop less often and organise their groceries more easily without having to upgrade to a bigger model.”

Cool and safe environmentFood preservation technologies come in a number of guises from a wide spectrum of brands and at varying price levels. De Dietrich, for

COOLING

“Maintaining a consistently cool temperature is vital to the preservation of food, which is why we have invested in technology that warns consumers of any accidental rise in temperature”Rita Balestrazzi Baumatic Marketing Manager

BAUMATIC TITAN 4 608LITRE FRIDGE FREEZER

THE 4DOOR, 70CMWIDE HOTPOINT QUADRIO

“Research by Microban® found the salad drawer is the most dangerous place in the fridge, with almost 8,000 bacteria per cm2”Whirlpool Product Marketing Manager, Freestanding, Dean McKelvie

Keep your food freshfor fifteen years.

It’s no coincidence the design of our refrigerators is timeless.

They are, after all, built to last fifteen years. They’re also

designed to keep food fresher for longer. And save you

money, earning the approval of The Energy Saving Trust.

For more fresh refrigeration ideas that offer

flexible solutions and maximum storage visit

www.miele.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED20

“Consumers are often faced with a wall of white fridges and freezers and are not aware of the varying degrees of functionality and what would be best for them. Retailers will be able to capitalise on purchase decisions if they can confi dently specify features and benefi ts.”

Juliana Sado, Brand Marketing Manager at Maytag, encourages store staff to tap into consumers’ lifestyles to advise them on the best type of appliance(s) to purchase. “Find out the type of foods they like to eat, drinks they like to consume, and other general eating habits. And explore their aspirations. If they want a big, black glass ‘in yer face’ fridge then sell them one, with great added value for you!

“Gen up on all the models and brands,” she adds. “There is a rich variety of products, colours and sophisticated systems out there to suit all lifestyles and budgets. Make sure you get the right ones on display and in stock to suit your target audience.”

Cooling demandsConsensus holds that there has been a considerable change in the way consumers shop and manage their food storage: the larder, or pantry, is no longer a feature of everyday kitchens and most people tend to do one big weekly shop, with fewer inclined towards the daily traipse onto the high street to visit independent food purveyors. And, as Hotpoint Marketing Manager Iain Starkey points out, there is a growing trend for food shopping via the internet, which does away with what some consider a time-consuming, burdensome chore. With this shift in shopping habits comes greater demand on cooling appliances, and storage solutions must be fl exible with maximum capacity and effi cient food preservation.

Starkey says that Hotpoint, in developing its new cooling range, carefully studied the changes in consumer lifestyles and recognised an increased focus on food hygiene and the amount of food thrown away. In response, it developed Air Tech Evolution, a system that pushes cool air into the fridge through multiple apertures running the full height of the cabinet. “This achieves perfect temperature control and improved circulation which, in turn, signifi cantly extends the storage life of fresh foods, even soft fruits like strawberries,” he explains.

Gino Grossi, Product Manager for Refrigeration at Samsung UK, also notes increasing consumer awareness of food wastage, “notably since the onset of the recession, when making cost savings started to become more of a strain.” He says that Samsung addresses the

problem in its ‘no frost’ models, which feature Multi Flow cooling vents on every shelf level to create an even temperature throughout the fridge “even after the door has been opened.” Hence, “food is stored in an optimum environment and will stay fresher for longer, reducing the amount of food thrown away as waste and saving consumers money.”

In particular, Grossi recommends products from Samsung’s G-Series range, which incorporates thin-wall insulation technology, for those who tend to take the money-saving benefi ts of off ers such as BOGOFs and multi-buys. “The technology,” he says, “essentially creates extra space inside the refrigerator within a standard footprint and means consumers can store more food, shop less often and organise their groceries more easily without having to upgrade to a bigger model.”

Cool and safe environmentFood preservation technologies come in a number of guises from a wide spectrum of brands and at varying price levels. De Dietrich, for

COOLING

“Maintaining a consistently cool temperature is vital to the preservation of food, which is why we have invested in technology that warns consumers of any accidental rise in temperature”Rita Balestrazzi Baumatic Marketing Manager

BAUMATIC TITAN 4 608LITRE FRIDGE FREEZER

THE 4DOOR, 70CMWIDE HOTPOINT QUADRIO

“Research by Microban® found the salad drawer is the most dangerous place in the fridge, with almost 8,000 bacteria per cm2”Whirlpool Product Marketing Manager, Freestanding, Dean McKelvie

Keep your food freshfor fifteen years.

It’s no coincidence the design of our refrigerators is timeless.

They are, after all, built to last fifteen years. They’re also

designed to keep food fresher for longer. And save you

money, earning the approval of The Energy Saving Trust.

For more fresh refrigeration ideas that offer

flexible solutions and maximum storage visit

www.miele.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED22

example, has a FAN cooling system in its A+ rated DRC1027JE 70:30 combi. Sales and Marketing Director Richard Walker explains that pulsed air is constantly diff used within the cavity to maintain an even temperature and optimum preservation on all shelf levels. He highlights, too, that this model incorporates an in-built antibacterial lining,

use of resources must change, we are told, if the planet is to be secured for future generations. Energy effi ciency is therefore a priority.

Fridges are reported to account for around 17% of all domestic energy consumption in Britain and are the hardest working appliances in the kitchen, operating 24/7 every day of the year. However, energy effi ciency has dramatically improved over the decades and investing in an up-to-date model can save a considerable amount of money. Baumatic Marketing Manager Rita Balestrazzi quotes AMDEA fi gures which state that a 20-year old fridge can cost up to £100 more to run per year than an A+ rated model,

and points out that “refrigerators are the second largest consumer of electricity in the home.”

Mike Jarrett, Sales Director for Neff , says the problem is that people tend to forget that buying an energy-effi cient appliance will help them save money in the long term and this needs to be emphasized by retailers at the point of sale: “Consumers should be reminded not just to think about the cost now, but to think about the future as well and how much money can be saved over time by investing in appliances such as the Neff CoolDeluxe range of A++ models.

which destroys bacteria through a simple, organic reaction “thus ensuring that food is always preserved in a perfectly healthy environment.”

From the Indesit brand comes ‘Dynamic Air Control’ that pushes cool air into the back of the fridge, and, says Advertising and Communications Manager Libby Morley, “combined with a thinner back liner, provides a whopping 20 litres of extra internal storage space.” Miele Kitchen Category Manager Neil Pooley says his brand off ers “a vast range” of functions that provide the best environment for food and help reduce wastage: “PerfectFresh zones,” he explains, “help keep fresh food up

to 3 times longer when compared to a normal refrigerator.” These controlled zones off er the choice of two settings – a dry zone for diary products, meats and fi sh or a humidity zone ideal for storing fresh fruit and vegetables.

Gorenje’s food preservation solution is a MultiFlow system which circulates chilled air around the storage areas and a Cold Shower system that maintains the temperature between 0°C and 3°C, along with a 0°C ‘Zero ‘n’ Fresh’ compartment for perishables. And Beko, in its GNE114610X 4-door fridge freezer, boasts ‘blue light’ technology which encourages fruit and vegetables to continue their natural photosynthesis to keep them fresher for longer. Head of Product and Buying Les Wicks is keen to point out yet another benefi t of this model: “A Flexi Zone compartment which can be used as either a freezer, a fridge, chiller or wine cooler.”

Clearly, there is an interesting sales story in cooling technologies, the above feature in itself off ering great fl exibility for households, particularly as the seasons turn and eating/buying/entertaining habits change. And it is a versatile benefi t that is now available from a number of brands. One of which is Haier, whose “fl agship feature” is the My Zone centre drawer. James Osborne, White Goods Product Manager for the UK & Ireland, says My Zone appeals to a “wide variety of lifestyle choices,” whether used as extra freezing capacity for families or a dedicated wine chiller for busy professionals.

Energy-effi cient food preservation21st Century Britain: a time when, in contrast to the harsh conditions brought about by prolonged periods of cooling during earlier centuries, the eff ect of global warming threatens our (relatively comfortable) existence, and our

COOLING

“A great energy-saving feature is the Holiday Mode, so the freezer stays on and the fridge turns off to reduce energy bills while the family is on vacation”Polly Beech, Assistant Brand Manager at Rangemaster

Lec adds to Larder and Freezer collection Established refrigeration specialist Lec has added four new products to its existing cooling and freezing collection, offering a range of height, capacity, cooling and freezing options for the consumer.

The A+ rated TL6015W and the TL6018W models are 60cm wide larders in heights of 1.5 and 1.8 metres respectively.

The 1.5m TL6015W offers a generous 284-litre net cooling capacity, whilst the taller TL6018W boasts 349 litres. Both models have � ve glass shelves, an adjustable thermostat, in-door storage, interior lights and reversible doors.

Lec has also developed two complementary frost free freezers designed to sit alongside the two larder models. The TUN6015W and the TUN6018W are 60cm wide frost free freezers in heights of 1.5 and 1.8 metres respectively.

The TUN6015W boasts a net freezing capacity of 194 litres, while the TUN6018W offers 251 litres. The products are both A rated and also bene� t from automatic defrost, digital temperature display and fast-freeze functions.

For more information visit www.lec.co.uk

LG SIDEBYSIDE MODEL WITH LINEAR COMPRESSOR

23MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

“In our opinion, consumers should be made more aware of the fact that a cooling appliance is the only one in the kitchen which operates 24/7 and 52 weeks a year. With this in mind, they should buy the most effi cient appliance they can aff ord now, to ensure they still have an effi cient product in the kitchen in 5 years’ time.”

The number of aged cooling products still on the market has led some to question whether consumers really care about sustainability and the ‘greening’ of the planet. Yet research conducted by refrigeration specialist Lec indicates that energy effi ciency has moved up the purchase agenda. “But people still require more guidance,” says Commercial Director David Garden. “We asked consumers how important a cooling product’s energy ratings or eco credentials are when deciding to purchase – 90% of respondents rated them ‘essential’, and when asked to defi ne the top three most important factors in the purchase decision, energy effi ciency, at 22.3%, closely followed price, which topped the results.”

Although progress has been made in encouraging consumers to swap their old,

ineffi cient models for those with higher energy ratings, Garden believes there is still more for retailers and manufacturers to do in communicating the benefi ts of greener appliances. “28% of survey respondents admitted to owning a cooling product more than 10 years old,” he reveals.

LG’s Dawn Stockell points out that some of the technology that supports food preservation is also responsible for making products more energy effi cient. “Models incorporating LG’s Linear Compressor technology, for example, are 28% more effi cient than conventional ones, and by maintaining a constant temperature in the appliance cavity, the technology will keep food fresher for longer. And with LG’s Total No Frost, energy effi ciency and food preservation are greatly improved as there is no build-up of frost in the freezer or condensation in the refrigeration – this lightens the load both on energy and food bills.”

Labelling and advice…The new EU energy labelling system for cooling products should help make the consumer’s choice of appliance an easier one, displaying, amongst other credentials, the annual energy consumption of products in kWh, which Whirlpool’s McKelvie says “could end up being the deciding purchase factor.” And, as Andrew Wasdell, Product Manager for Food Preservation at Electrolux, notes: “From this summer, manufacturers will only be allowed to put A+ rated models, or better, into the trade, so even those switching from an A-rated product

to one of the newer, higher rated models will see a reduction in energy consumption and costs.” Haier’s Osborne adds: “Even a relatively young 8-year old refrigerator will cost up to £50 or £60 more a year to run than a modern, A+ rated appliance. It will also keep food fresher for longer and come packed with features that meet lifestyle needs.”

However, Beko’s Wicks, in his concluding comment, is quick to point out that, if the purchase of any cooling product is not to

disappoint, retailers must investigate their customers’ requirements: “If a large fridge freezer is only half full, it will not run at maximum effi ciency, so it is vital that consumers are advised to choose a model that suits their family needs, with the best possible energy rating.”

COOLING

“Consumers want elegant design at affordable prices and all expect appliances in general to be faster, smarter, quieter and more energy ef� cient as well”Steve Macdonald, Hoover Candy Marketing Director

AEG S83600CMM0 2m tall ProFresh combi-bottom fridge freezer AEG’s S83600CMM0 2m tall stainless steel ProFresh combi-bottom fridge freezer keeps 99% of the moisture in food for a week for superb freshness and quality.

The two separate cooling systems mean that temperature and humidity can be maintained in the fridge compartment at optimum settings. The freezer’s NoFrost module prevents ice building in the compartment, so there is never a need to defrost.

The MultiAir Flow system, with its exclusive air channelling, creates a constant air � ow in all levels of the fridge, keeping conditions extremely stable, which is perfect for longer food storage. In addition, it ensures faster chilling when food is placed in the fridge and a quick return to the right temperature after the door has been opened. The on-door LCD touch-control features Coolmatic, Frostmatic and Holiday function.

The AEG S83600CMMO is A+ class energy rated, which uses 20% less energy than A class models.

www.aeg.co.ukTrade Sales Number: 08445 610561

MIELE’S MASTERCOOL FRIDGE FREEZER MAINTAINS “OPTIMUM” STORAGE CONDITIONS FOR SPECIFIC FOOD CATEGORIES

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED22

example, has a FAN cooling system in its A+ rated DRC1027JE 70:30 combi. Sales and Marketing Director Richard Walker explains that pulsed air is constantly diff used within the cavity to maintain an even temperature and optimum preservation on all shelf levels. He highlights, too, that this model incorporates an in-built antibacterial lining,

use of resources must change, we are told, if the planet is to be secured for future generations. Energy effi ciency is therefore a priority.

Fridges are reported to account for around 17% of all domestic energy consumption in Britain and are the hardest working appliances in the kitchen, operating 24/7 every day of the year. However, energy effi ciency has dramatically improved over the decades and investing in an up-to-date model can save a considerable amount of money. Baumatic Marketing Manager Rita Balestrazzi quotes AMDEA fi gures which state that a 20-year old fridge can cost up to £100 more to run per year than an A+ rated model,

and points out that “refrigerators are the second largest consumer of electricity in the home.”

Mike Jarrett, Sales Director for Neff , says the problem is that people tend to forget that buying an energy-effi cient appliance will help them save money in the long term and this needs to be emphasized by retailers at the point of sale: “Consumers should be reminded not just to think about the cost now, but to think about the future as well and how much money can be saved over time by investing in appliances such as the Neff CoolDeluxe range of A++ models.

which destroys bacteria through a simple, organic reaction “thus ensuring that food is always preserved in a perfectly healthy environment.”

From the Indesit brand comes ‘Dynamic Air Control’ that pushes cool air into the back of the fridge, and, says Advertising and Communications Manager Libby Morley, “combined with a thinner back liner, provides a whopping 20 litres of extra internal storage space.” Miele Kitchen Category Manager Neil Pooley says his brand off ers “a vast range” of functions that provide the best environment for food and help reduce wastage: “PerfectFresh zones,” he explains, “help keep fresh food up

to 3 times longer when compared to a normal refrigerator.” These controlled zones off er the choice of two settings – a dry zone for diary products, meats and fi sh or a humidity zone ideal for storing fresh fruit and vegetables.

Gorenje’s food preservation solution is a MultiFlow system which circulates chilled air around the storage areas and a Cold Shower system that maintains the temperature between 0°C and 3°C, along with a 0°C ‘Zero ‘n’ Fresh’ compartment for perishables. And Beko, in its GNE114610X 4-door fridge freezer, boasts ‘blue light’ technology which encourages fruit and vegetables to continue their natural photosynthesis to keep them fresher for longer. Head of Product and Buying Les Wicks is keen to point out yet another benefi t of this model: “A Flexi Zone compartment which can be used as either a freezer, a fridge, chiller or wine cooler.”

Clearly, there is an interesting sales story in cooling technologies, the above feature in itself off ering great fl exibility for households, particularly as the seasons turn and eating/buying/entertaining habits change. And it is a versatile benefi t that is now available from a number of brands. One of which is Haier, whose “fl agship feature” is the My Zone centre drawer. James Osborne, White Goods Product Manager for the UK & Ireland, says My Zone appeals to a “wide variety of lifestyle choices,” whether used as extra freezing capacity for families or a dedicated wine chiller for busy professionals.

Energy-effi cient food preservation21st Century Britain: a time when, in contrast to the harsh conditions brought about by prolonged periods of cooling during earlier centuries, the eff ect of global warming threatens our (relatively comfortable) existence, and our

COOLING

“A great energy-saving feature is the Holiday Mode, so the freezer stays on and the fridge turns off to reduce energy bills while the family is on vacation”Polly Beech, Assistant Brand Manager at Rangemaster

Lec adds to Larder and Freezer collection Established refrigeration specialist Lec has added four new products to its existing cooling and freezing collection, offering a range of height, capacity, cooling and freezing options for the consumer.

The A+ rated TL6015W and the TL6018W models are 60cm wide larders in heights of 1.5 and 1.8 metres respectively.

The 1.5m TL6015W offers a generous 284-litre net cooling capacity, whilst the taller TL6018W boasts 349 litres. Both models have � ve glass shelves, an adjustable thermostat, in-door storage, interior lights and reversible doors.

Lec has also developed two complementary frost free freezers designed to sit alongside the two larder models. The TUN6015W and the TUN6018W are 60cm wide frost free freezers in heights of 1.5 and 1.8 metres respectively.

The TUN6015W boasts a net freezing capacity of 194 litres, while the TUN6018W offers 251 litres. The products are both A rated and also bene� t from automatic defrost, digital temperature display and fast-freeze functions.

For more information visit www.lec.co.uk

LG SIDEBYSIDE MODEL WITH LINEAR COMPRESSOR

23MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

“In our opinion, consumers should be made more aware of the fact that a cooling appliance is the only one in the kitchen which operates 24/7 and 52 weeks a year. With this in mind, they should buy the most effi cient appliance they can aff ord now, to ensure they still have an effi cient product in the kitchen in 5 years’ time.”

The number of aged cooling products still on the market has led some to question whether consumers really care about sustainability and the ‘greening’ of the planet. Yet research conducted by refrigeration specialist Lec indicates that energy effi ciency has moved up the purchase agenda. “But people still require more guidance,” says Commercial Director David Garden. “We asked consumers how important a cooling product’s energy ratings or eco credentials are when deciding to purchase – 90% of respondents rated them ‘essential’, and when asked to defi ne the top three most important factors in the purchase decision, energy effi ciency, at 22.3%, closely followed price, which topped the results.”

Although progress has been made in encouraging consumers to swap their old,

ineffi cient models for those with higher energy ratings, Garden believes there is still more for retailers and manufacturers to do in communicating the benefi ts of greener appliances. “28% of survey respondents admitted to owning a cooling product more than 10 years old,” he reveals.

LG’s Dawn Stockell points out that some of the technology that supports food preservation is also responsible for making products more energy effi cient. “Models incorporating LG’s Linear Compressor technology, for example, are 28% more effi cient than conventional ones, and by maintaining a constant temperature in the appliance cavity, the technology will keep food fresher for longer. And with LG’s Total No Frost, energy effi ciency and food preservation are greatly improved as there is no build-up of frost in the freezer or condensation in the refrigeration – this lightens the load both on energy and food bills.”

Labelling and advice…The new EU energy labelling system for cooling products should help make the consumer’s choice of appliance an easier one, displaying, amongst other credentials, the annual energy consumption of products in kWh, which Whirlpool’s McKelvie says “could end up being the deciding purchase factor.” And, as Andrew Wasdell, Product Manager for Food Preservation at Electrolux, notes: “From this summer, manufacturers will only be allowed to put A+ rated models, or better, into the trade, so even those switching from an A-rated product

to one of the newer, higher rated models will see a reduction in energy consumption and costs.” Haier’s Osborne adds: “Even a relatively young 8-year old refrigerator will cost up to £50 or £60 more a year to run than a modern, A+ rated appliance. It will also keep food fresher for longer and come packed with features that meet lifestyle needs.”

However, Beko’s Wicks, in his concluding comment, is quick to point out that, if the purchase of any cooling product is not to

disappoint, retailers must investigate their customers’ requirements: “If a large fridge freezer is only half full, it will not run at maximum effi ciency, so it is vital that consumers are advised to choose a model that suits their family needs, with the best possible energy rating.”

COOLING

“Consumers want elegant design at affordable prices and all expect appliances in general to be faster, smarter, quieter and more energy ef� cient as well”Steve Macdonald, Hoover Candy Marketing Director

AEG S83600CMM0 2m tall ProFresh combi-bottom fridge freezer AEG’s S83600CMM0 2m tall stainless steel ProFresh combi-bottom fridge freezer keeps 99% of the moisture in food for a week for superb freshness and quality.

The two separate cooling systems mean that temperature and humidity can be maintained in the fridge compartment at optimum settings. The freezer’s NoFrost module prevents ice building in the compartment, so there is never a need to defrost.

The MultiAir Flow system, with its exclusive air channelling, creates a constant air � ow in all levels of the fridge, keeping conditions extremely stable, which is perfect for longer food storage. In addition, it ensures faster chilling when food is placed in the fridge and a quick return to the right temperature after the door has been opened. The on-door LCD touch-control features Coolmatic, Frostmatic and Holiday function.

The AEG S83600CMMO is A+ class energy rated, which uses 20% less energy than A class models.

www.aeg.co.ukTrade Sales Number: 08445 610561

MIELE’S MASTERCOOL FRIDGE FREEZER MAINTAINS “OPTIMUM” STORAGE CONDITIONS FOR SPECIFIC FOOD CATEGORIES

For further information please contact Seema Baines in the UK on +44 870 603 8100 or email seema.baines@gfk.com www.gfkrt.com/uk

GfK. Growth from Knowledge

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED24

Growth from Knowledge

GROWTH FROM KNOWLEDGE

Side by side back on top

2011 was a successful year for the cooling market, with value sales increasing at a higher rate than any other MDA product category. It recorded growth of 8% over the past 12 months, which refl ects an additional £50 million of sales. This uplift has pushed the total market to £712 million, with both the freestanding and built in sector recording a better performance than in 2010. Traditional combi fridge freezers have been the key driver of growth for the overall market. With sales up 7% on last year and market value reaching £413 million, they account for nearly 60% of the total market.

COOLING: SALES VALUE % JAN ‘11 DEC ‘11

“Online share for premium products tends to be higher as consumers take to the internet in

search of the best price deals. ”

High-end resurgence injects value

M arket value has also been boosted by a combination of strong price development and an improved

performance for high end products. The premium sector for high capacity and

American style fridge freezers had been one of the biggest casualties in this market over the past few years. The side by side market had really felt the impact of the recession and saw a huge value drop of £50 million from 2007 to 2010. The most recent picture is, however, looking much more positive, with market value reaching £100 million in 2011, up 15% on the previous year. With an average retail price of just below £800, a side by side refrigerator costs more than double the price of a traditional combi fridge freezer. That said, the average price in 2010 was £825, but this year there were many promotions which encouraged consumers to trade up to a larger capacity appliance with a greater number of technical features.

Internet sales advancing in white goodsThe internet now contributes nearly a quarter of all refrigeration sales, four percentage points more than last year. For the high end side by side category this grows to over a third, which represents a massive leap for the medium since 2006. Online share for premium products tends to be higher as consumers take to the internet in search of the best price deals. Whilst online growth is a characteristic seen across the full range of major appliances, it is telling that the classic replacement markets of home laundry and cooling are accelerating during these diffi cult economic times.

Challenges in 2012Looking ahead, 2012 appears set to be another challenging year. A prolonged period of economic uncertainty and further pressure on household incomes will certainly impact big ticket purchases as the year progresses. It is expected that the 2012 sporting events will also aff ect the refrigeration market during the key summer period, when TVs will be regarded by consumers as a slightly better investment.

25MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

FROM THE BENCH

E-mail: fromthebench@gcmagazine.co.uk

What will be on our shelves in six months… In one or two years – or more? Alan Bennett looks ahead

Display-screen futures

T hinscreen TVs are evolving very rapidly, and there are rich rewards for the setmaker who � rst brings to

market a wide-viewing-angle no-specs 3D screen and an affordable OLED picture panel.

Now and nextExcept in low-end models the trend now

is away from � uorescent-tube LCD panel

illumination and towards white LED

backlighting, colour LED arrays having

waned after an initial � ourish. LED backlights

bring three advantages: better black levels;

lower energy consumption; and increased

reliability, with longer life than � uorescent

tubes, no operating potential above 50V

in LCD TVs, and no phosphors to fade. Of

course, increased reliability is not good news

for those who provide repair services, but

at least as screens increase in size the need

for specialist delivery, installation and wall-

mounting in small living-rooms increases...

3D TV is now a well-established product,

with the protagonists of passive and active

viewing systems � ghting it out. Soon the

new concept of specs-free 3D viewing will

come to the UK market (see George Cole on

page 26), having been about for well over a

year already. Just as there are two competing

systems for 3D spectacles, so there are two

alternatives for specs-free screens – parallax

barrier and lenticular lens. To visualise

a parallax barrier imagine two closely-

spaced and offset picket fences. What you

see through them depends on the viewing

angle, and at just the right width and spacing

the TV-screen barrier strips can present a

different image to each eye, as required for 3D

viewing. Lenticular lens systems employ an

array of tiny pixel-size lenses on the screen

to slightly change the angle of light passing

through them, alternately arranged to de� ect

the required separate images into the viewers’

right and left eyes. Both these concepts are

used to give a 3D or changing-image effect on

cheap passive layered devices and stickers

on such things as rulers, pencil cases and

bookmarks.

Both barrier and lenticular systems cut

down the available image brightness and

de� nition, but their main drawback is that

they only produce a 3D effect at certain

viewing angles, giving ‘dead spots’ and ‘sweet

spots’ (typically nine in TV) for the viewer. It is

possible (e.g. Toshiba) to electronically steer

the sweet spot onto viewers by means of a

head-position detector using a simple camera.

LED matricesOLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) screens

have existed for several years, and have now

grown in size from the original Sony 11-inch

model; both LG and Samsung are making 55-

inch models, 4mm and 8mm thick respectively,

and they should appear in the UK this year,

at a price guessed to be around £10k. OLED

panels give superb images with deep (true)

blacks, high contrast, wide viewing angles

and rich colour. Sony, pioneer of (and still

committed to) OLED in home screens, has now

taken a different direction with Crystal LED, a

matrix of tiny conventional RGB LEDs, 6 million

of them in a large full-HD screen. A prototype

was shown at CES 2012. The Samsung OLED,

3D-capable, can also show two different

pictures to viewers sitting apart, an interesting

application which I think would spin money in

more humble 3D-based home screens.

In the more distant future another LED-like

screen type, Quantum-Dot, promises high

performance, paper-thin roll-up screens.

Big and sharpThe future lies with big high-de� nition TV

screens, though their proliferation will have

to wait until the current worldwide recession

has eased: at present it is inhibiting research

and development in some technologies as

well as sales. Screens up to 80-inch diagonal

will be in mass production soon. These really

large panels need higher de� nition, more

pixels than are currently provided, and 4K2K

– 3840×2160, totalling 8.3 million pixels, 25

million dots – will be built into mega-screens;

last year Toshiba produced 4K2K model ZL2,

and this year both LG and Sharp have shown

big screens with this pixel con� guration.

4K2K is approximately equal, in its de� nition

capability, to 35mm optical � lm, though

broadcast and recording media will not be

up to it for a considerable time. Indeed, the

only image source of this for the home right

now is a Sony upscaling Blu-ray player, model

BDP-S70, but of course upscaled pictures

are not the real deal, are they? Certainly high

pixel-density screens are useful for making

full-HD 3D displays and dual-picture screens.

Setmakers’ skirmishesCertainly in the realm of 3D TV sets

and viewing screens the rival Korean

manufacturers LG and Samsung seem to

have taken the lead from Japanese companies

of late. In spectacle-viewed 3D technology

they favour passive and active systems

respectively, and have been vociferously

opposed in their advertising and publicity

drives. Both are racing, in terms of research

and development, to bring to market the best

specs-free 3D system. Sony appears to have

put their long-term faith into 3D displays

using OLED technology, which has come

down in production price but for the present

remains prohibitively expensive, especially in

the present � nancial doldrums.

There seems little doubt that in the long

term some form of LED type technology will

come to the fore: it has so many advantages,

and IC and existing screen production has

shown how large-scale integration cost can

be beaten down.

SONY 55INCH CRYSTAL LED DISPLAY

For further information please contact Seema Baines in the UK on +44 870 603 8100 or email seema.baines@gfk.com www.gfkrt.com/uk

GfK. Growth from Knowledge

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED24

Growth from Knowledge

GROWTH FROM KNOWLEDGE

Side by side back on top

2011 was a successful year for the cooling market, with value sales increasing at a higher rate than any other MDA product category. It recorded growth of 8% over the past 12 months, which refl ects an additional £50 million of sales. This uplift has pushed the total market to £712 million, with both the freestanding and built in sector recording a better performance than in 2010. Traditional combi fridge freezers have been the key driver of growth for the overall market. With sales up 7% on last year and market value reaching £413 million, they account for nearly 60% of the total market.

COOLING: SALES VALUE % JAN ‘11 DEC ‘11

“Online share for premium products tends to be higher as consumers take to the internet in

search of the best price deals. ”

High-end resurgence injects value

M arket value has also been boosted by a combination of strong price development and an improved

performance for high end products. The premium sector for high capacity and

American style fridge freezers had been one of the biggest casualties in this market over the past few years. The side by side market had really felt the impact of the recession and saw a huge value drop of £50 million from 2007 to 2010. The most recent picture is, however, looking much more positive, with market value reaching £100 million in 2011, up 15% on the previous year. With an average retail price of just below £800, a side by side refrigerator costs more than double the price of a traditional combi fridge freezer. That said, the average price in 2010 was £825, but this year there were many promotions which encouraged consumers to trade up to a larger capacity appliance with a greater number of technical features.

Internet sales advancing in white goodsThe internet now contributes nearly a quarter of all refrigeration sales, four percentage points more than last year. For the high end side by side category this grows to over a third, which represents a massive leap for the medium since 2006. Online share for premium products tends to be higher as consumers take to the internet in search of the best price deals. Whilst online growth is a characteristic seen across the full range of major appliances, it is telling that the classic replacement markets of home laundry and cooling are accelerating during these diffi cult economic times.

Challenges in 2012Looking ahead, 2012 appears set to be another challenging year. A prolonged period of economic uncertainty and further pressure on household incomes will certainly impact big ticket purchases as the year progresses. It is expected that the 2012 sporting events will also aff ect the refrigeration market during the key summer period, when TVs will be regarded by consumers as a slightly better investment.

25MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

FROM THE BENCH

E-mail: fromthebench@gcmagazine.co.uk

What will be on our shelves in six months… In one or two years – or more? Alan Bennett looks ahead

Display-screen futures

T hinscreen TVs are evolving very rapidly, and there are rich rewards for the setmaker who � rst brings to

market a wide-viewing-angle no-specs 3D screen and an affordable OLED picture panel.

Now and nextExcept in low-end models the trend now

is away from � uorescent-tube LCD panel

illumination and towards white LED

backlighting, colour LED arrays having

waned after an initial � ourish. LED backlights

bring three advantages: better black levels;

lower energy consumption; and increased

reliability, with longer life than � uorescent

tubes, no operating potential above 50V

in LCD TVs, and no phosphors to fade. Of

course, increased reliability is not good news

for those who provide repair services, but

at least as screens increase in size the need

for specialist delivery, installation and wall-

mounting in small living-rooms increases...

3D TV is now a well-established product,

with the protagonists of passive and active

viewing systems � ghting it out. Soon the

new concept of specs-free 3D viewing will

come to the UK market (see George Cole on

page 26), having been about for well over a

year already. Just as there are two competing

systems for 3D spectacles, so there are two

alternatives for specs-free screens – parallax

barrier and lenticular lens. To visualise

a parallax barrier imagine two closely-

spaced and offset picket fences. What you

see through them depends on the viewing

angle, and at just the right width and spacing

the TV-screen barrier strips can present a

different image to each eye, as required for 3D

viewing. Lenticular lens systems employ an

array of tiny pixel-size lenses on the screen

to slightly change the angle of light passing

through them, alternately arranged to de� ect

the required separate images into the viewers’

right and left eyes. Both these concepts are

used to give a 3D or changing-image effect on

cheap passive layered devices and stickers

on such things as rulers, pencil cases and

bookmarks.

Both barrier and lenticular systems cut

down the available image brightness and

de� nition, but their main drawback is that

they only produce a 3D effect at certain

viewing angles, giving ‘dead spots’ and ‘sweet

spots’ (typically nine in TV) for the viewer. It is

possible (e.g. Toshiba) to electronically steer

the sweet spot onto viewers by means of a

head-position detector using a simple camera.

LED matricesOLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) screens

have existed for several years, and have now

grown in size from the original Sony 11-inch

model; both LG and Samsung are making 55-

inch models, 4mm and 8mm thick respectively,

and they should appear in the UK this year,

at a price guessed to be around £10k. OLED

panels give superb images with deep (true)

blacks, high contrast, wide viewing angles

and rich colour. Sony, pioneer of (and still

committed to) OLED in home screens, has now

taken a different direction with Crystal LED, a

matrix of tiny conventional RGB LEDs, 6 million

of them in a large full-HD screen. A prototype

was shown at CES 2012. The Samsung OLED,

3D-capable, can also show two different

pictures to viewers sitting apart, an interesting

application which I think would spin money in

more humble 3D-based home screens.

In the more distant future another LED-like

screen type, Quantum-Dot, promises high

performance, paper-thin roll-up screens.

Big and sharpThe future lies with big high-de� nition TV

screens, though their proliferation will have

to wait until the current worldwide recession

has eased: at present it is inhibiting research

and development in some technologies as

well as sales. Screens up to 80-inch diagonal

will be in mass production soon. These really

large panels need higher de� nition, more

pixels than are currently provided, and 4K2K

– 3840×2160, totalling 8.3 million pixels, 25

million dots – will be built into mega-screens;

last year Toshiba produced 4K2K model ZL2,

and this year both LG and Sharp have shown

big screens with this pixel con� guration.

4K2K is approximately equal, in its de� nition

capability, to 35mm optical � lm, though

broadcast and recording media will not be

up to it for a considerable time. Indeed, the

only image source of this for the home right

now is a Sony upscaling Blu-ray player, model

BDP-S70, but of course upscaled pictures

are not the real deal, are they? Certainly high

pixel-density screens are useful for making

full-HD 3D displays and dual-picture screens.

Setmakers’ skirmishesCertainly in the realm of 3D TV sets

and viewing screens the rival Korean

manufacturers LG and Samsung seem to

have taken the lead from Japanese companies

of late. In spectacle-viewed 3D technology

they favour passive and active systems

respectively, and have been vociferously

opposed in their advertising and publicity

drives. Both are racing, in terms of research

and development, to bring to market the best

specs-free 3D system. Sony appears to have

put their long-term faith into 3D displays

using OLED technology, which has come

down in production price but for the present

remains prohibitively expensive, especially in

the present � nancial doldrums.

There seems little doubt that in the long

term some form of LED type technology will

come to the fore: it has so many advantages,

and IC and existing screen production has

shown how large-scale integration cost can

be beaten down.

SONY 55INCH CRYSTAL LED DISPLAY

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED26

GLASSES-FREE 3D – IF YOU HAVE DEEP POCKETS

Toshiba got a lot of coverage over its plans to launch

the UK’s � rst glasses-free 3DTV set and it’s easy to

see why. The autostereoscopic 3D or glasses-free 3D

display has long been the Holy Grail for 3DTV manufactur-

ers. A fair proportion of consumers are put off 3D by the fact

that they have to wear glasses; some 3D glasses are expen-

sive, and different 3DTVs require different types of glasses.

It all makes for a confusing picture. Toshiba isn’t the � rst

company to market a glasses-free 3D – Philips sold autos-

tereoscopic 3D sets to professional markets until 2009, and

the Nintendo 3DS games console uses a glasses-free 3D

system, as does a Fuji� lm 3D camera.

But developing large autostereoscopic 3D displays for

television is not simple or cheap, as can be discerned by the

price of Toshiba’s ZL2 55-inch set: a wallet-busting £7000.

The ZL2 uses eye-tracking technology and a lenticular lens

system to give up to nine viewers a 3D perspective, and it’s

an impressive technological achievement. However, the high

cost explains why it will be a long time before today’s active

and passive 3D systems are replaced by autostereoscopic 3D.

CLOUD BURSTThe closure of the digital locker service Megaupload for alleged copyright infringement shows why cloud-based storage systems might not always be a great idea. Many customers suddenly found that they had lost access to their � les and folders, and at the time of writing, there doesn’t seem much prospect of them retrieving their ma-terial in the near future – if ever. The smart users will also have stored their content on other media, but it’s easy to see why many people might have assumed that, because their content is stored online, it’s safer than having it on a PC hard drive. Although I store many photo images with the online photo service Flickr, I’ve never seen it as a perma-nent solution for storing images. Cloud storage can be use-ful, but it’s certainly no panacea for keeping your content permanently safe.

E-mail: georgecole@gcmagazine.co.uk

DO WE STILL NEED A DIGITAL CAMERA?Nokia has set the cat among the pigeons with the an-nouncement of its 808 Pureview phone with a 41 megapixel

(yes, you read that right) image sensor, Carl Zeiss optics,

Xenon � ash and Full HD 1080p recording. Nokia has been

criticised in some quarters for releasing a smartphone with

these specs, as it’s not possible to capture a 41MP image. But

the company says that at standard resolution shooting (be-

tween 2-8 MP) users can zoom into a subject without losing

any picture clarity, as the system combines seven pixels of

information into one.

Whatever the merits of Nokia’s new imaging technology

(and the proof of the pudding will be in the quality of the im-

ages), there’s no doubt that smartphone camera technology

is improving all the time. Not so long ago, images shot on a

phone looked grainy, fuzzy and washed out, but today’s mod-

els can produce very impressive images. If you don’t believe

me, check out the various concert footage posted on YouTube,

much of which has been shot on a smartphone camera. The

clarity of many of the postings is amazing. It once again begs

the question: do we need to have dedicated digital cameras

these days? Supporters of digital cameras point out that most

smartphone cameras may have large megapixel sensors, but

that camera optics and digital image processing play a big

part in determining picture quality, and here digital cameras

almost invariably win hands down.

But smartphone fans say that you always have your phone

with you; it’s relatively easy to take a picture or video and then

post it online – and the image quality is � ne for most types of

shooting. Last year, the US research company NPD Group re-

ported that the percentage of photos taken with a smartphone

(such as an Apple iPhone or Android smartphone) increased

from 17% in 2010 to 27% in 2011, while the share of photos

taken on a camera dropped from 52% to 44% in the same pe-

riod. It could be that, as with the case of music – where most

consumers are now happy to listen to compressed audio � les

on their digital music players – most people will opt for the

convenience offered by a smartphone over the quality you get

from a digital camera.

George Cole pinpoints hotspots in the world of consumer electronics.

GEORGE COLE GETS CONNECTED

27

A G E T C O N N E C T E D S U P P L E M E N T S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

28 / / / / / / / / / / / / Food Preparation

32 / / / / / / / / / / / Built-In Appliances

36 / / / / / / / / The Gourmet Quarter

38 / / / / Freestanding Appliances

42 / / / / / / / / / / / / / Coff ee Machines

CONTENTS:

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED26

GLASSES-FREE 3D – IF YOU HAVE DEEP POCKETS

Toshiba got a lot of coverage over its plans to launch

the UK’s � rst glasses-free 3DTV set and it’s easy to

see why. The autostereoscopic 3D or glasses-free 3D

display has long been the Holy Grail for 3DTV manufactur-

ers. A fair proportion of consumers are put off 3D by the fact

that they have to wear glasses; some 3D glasses are expen-

sive, and different 3DTVs require different types of glasses.

It all makes for a confusing picture. Toshiba isn’t the � rst

company to market a glasses-free 3D – Philips sold autos-

tereoscopic 3D sets to professional markets until 2009, and

the Nintendo 3DS games console uses a glasses-free 3D

system, as does a Fuji� lm 3D camera.

But developing large autostereoscopic 3D displays for

television is not simple or cheap, as can be discerned by the

price of Toshiba’s ZL2 55-inch set: a wallet-busting £7000.

The ZL2 uses eye-tracking technology and a lenticular lens

system to give up to nine viewers a 3D perspective, and it’s

an impressive technological achievement. However, the high

cost explains why it will be a long time before today’s active

and passive 3D systems are replaced by autostereoscopic 3D.

CLOUD BURSTThe closure of the digital locker service Megaupload for alleged copyright infringement shows why cloud-based storage systems might not always be a great idea. Many customers suddenly found that they had lost access to their � les and folders, and at the time of writing, there doesn’t seem much prospect of them retrieving their ma-terial in the near future – if ever. The smart users will also have stored their content on other media, but it’s easy to see why many people might have assumed that, because their content is stored online, it’s safer than having it on a PC hard drive. Although I store many photo images with the online photo service Flickr, I’ve never seen it as a perma-nent solution for storing images. Cloud storage can be use-ful, but it’s certainly no panacea for keeping your content permanently safe.

E-mail: georgecole@gcmagazine.co.uk

DO WE STILL NEED A DIGITAL CAMERA?Nokia has set the cat among the pigeons with the an-nouncement of its 808 Pureview phone with a 41 megapixel

(yes, you read that right) image sensor, Carl Zeiss optics,

Xenon � ash and Full HD 1080p recording. Nokia has been

criticised in some quarters for releasing a smartphone with

these specs, as it’s not possible to capture a 41MP image. But

the company says that at standard resolution shooting (be-

tween 2-8 MP) users can zoom into a subject without losing

any picture clarity, as the system combines seven pixels of

information into one.

Whatever the merits of Nokia’s new imaging technology

(and the proof of the pudding will be in the quality of the im-

ages), there’s no doubt that smartphone camera technology

is improving all the time. Not so long ago, images shot on a

phone looked grainy, fuzzy and washed out, but today’s mod-

els can produce very impressive images. If you don’t believe

me, check out the various concert footage posted on YouTube,

much of which has been shot on a smartphone camera. The

clarity of many of the postings is amazing. It once again begs

the question: do we need to have dedicated digital cameras

these days? Supporters of digital cameras point out that most

smartphone cameras may have large megapixel sensors, but

that camera optics and digital image processing play a big

part in determining picture quality, and here digital cameras

almost invariably win hands down.

But smartphone fans say that you always have your phone

with you; it’s relatively easy to take a picture or video and then

post it online – and the image quality is � ne for most types of

shooting. Last year, the US research company NPD Group re-

ported that the percentage of photos taken with a smartphone

(such as an Apple iPhone or Android smartphone) increased

from 17% in 2010 to 27% in 2011, while the share of photos

taken on a camera dropped from 52% to 44% in the same pe-

riod. It could be that, as with the case of music – where most

consumers are now happy to listen to compressed audio � les

on their digital music players – most people will opt for the

convenience offered by a smartphone over the quality you get

from a digital camera.

George Cole pinpoints hotspots in the world of consumer electronics.

GEORGE COLE GETS CONNECTED

27

A G E T C O N N E C T E D S U P P L E M E N T S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

28 / / / / / / / / / / / / Food Preparation

32 / / / / / / / / / / / Built-In Appliances

36 / / / / / / / / The Gourmet Quarter

38 / / / / Freestanding Appliances

42 / / / / / / / / / / / / / Coff ee Machines

CONTENTS:

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED28

AEG’S SUPERQUIET POWERMIX SILENT BLENDER

Cooking programmes have maintained their huge popularity in the TV schedules. TV chefs using food preparation equipment to quickly and eff ortlessly chop, grate, slice, blend and mix basic, fresh ingredients is a powerful incentive to home cooks to get the best of all worlds. These appliances can help create fresh, healthy, tasty, authentic “made from scratch” foods to professional standards without sacrifi cing the modern consumer’s most precious commodity: time.

new Powermix “Silent” blender may bring an unprecedented unobtrusiveness to the kitchen as the quietest blender on the market, but at the same time asserts its stylish presence with the understated elegance of classical lines and a choice of sophisticated Deep Aubergine or Antique Steel fi nish.

Kitchen machines from the iconic high-end ranges of Cuisinart, Kenwood, KitchenAid and Vitamix earn their place on the modern kitchen worktop not only for their multifunction, versatile uses in 21st century cooking, but also for the style and contemporary colour accents they add.

Function and versatilityStyle may be an essential ingredient of food preparation products, but it has to be matched by function, ease of use and, above all, their perceived usefulness and relevance to today’s

T he Small Domestic Appliances market in the UK performed well in 2011, achieving 13.5% growth by value,

and the food preparation category was a star performer with 25.3% value growth. Mark Swift, director of marketing at Kenwood, notes that, within the food preparation category, kitchen machines’ year-on-year value growth was an outstanding 47.1%, food processors grew by 31.5%, blenders achieved a 24% uplift and hand mixers were up by 22%.

Clearly, during a diffi cult time for electrical retail, food preparation off ers opportunities for retailers who choose their products wisely and take advantage of the potential for both add-on sales to MDA and the “instant upgrade” that tabletop food preparation equipment can give to the look – and the performance – of a kitchen that doesn’t have the budget for a full-scale refurbishment.

Style and colourAs Kenwood’s Mark Swift comments, “consumers are currently investing in extending or refurbishing their existing homes rather than moving house. This has led to colours becoming a strong trend with consumers looking for stylish and colourful SDAs to help them revamp their kitchens.” There is no doubt that food preparation products, from the big, versatile multi-task kitchen machines to the handy hand blenders, have benefi ted from heightened focus on style and colour choices. Kenwood’s kMix range, including stand mixer, blender and hand mixer, is available in a choice of vibrant, modern colours, with the raspberry, almond and peppercorn options being joined in 2011 by striking striped stand mixers.

Tefal’s new countertop slicer, shredder and grater, the Fresh Express, sports a pearlescent ruby red body and rainbow attachments, to add, says Groupe SEB product manager Maria Montero, “some much-needed bright colour.” And AEG’s

“The breadth of choice, functions and prices makes this an ideal category for ‘real’ retailers”

Be prepared…

FOOD PREPARATION

C R E A T E M O R E

The only kitchen machinethat offers 4 featuresall in one unit.

*Gfk MAT January Volume and Value 2012

Why should you have the KenwoodChef Titanium on your shelf?• No1 brand in kitchen machines*

• Brand associated with quality, reliability, durability

• Only Kitchen Machine available offering 4 features in one unit (blender, food processor, bowl and slow attachment outlet)

• Strong motor performance (1400W) will cope with all food preparation tasks

• Large bowl capacity enables larger portions

• Premium quality attachments give better results

• Wide choice of additional attachments

• Achieves high customer satisfaction

• Full national advertising programme support this Easter

The KenwoodCHEF TITANIUM

Contact your local Sales Managerfor more information

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

Model shown KM010

OVE

R 60

YEARS of the CH

EF

EST 1950

Slow Speed Outlet

Medium Speed Outlet High Speed Outlet

Bowl Outlet

1

3

2

4

KEN_6907 Chef KM010 Trade Ad Master 210x297 Art.indd 1 08/03/2012 12:27

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED28

AEG’S SUPERQUIET POWERMIX SILENT BLENDER

Cooking programmes have maintained their huge popularity in the TV schedules. TV chefs using food preparation equipment to quickly and eff ortlessly chop, grate, slice, blend and mix basic, fresh ingredients is a powerful incentive to home cooks to get the best of all worlds. These appliances can help create fresh, healthy, tasty, authentic “made from scratch” foods to professional standards without sacrifi cing the modern consumer’s most precious commodity: time.

new Powermix “Silent” blender may bring an unprecedented unobtrusiveness to the kitchen as the quietest blender on the market, but at the same time asserts its stylish presence with the understated elegance of classical lines and a choice of sophisticated Deep Aubergine or Antique Steel fi nish.

Kitchen machines from the iconic high-end ranges of Cuisinart, Kenwood, KitchenAid and Vitamix earn their place on the modern kitchen worktop not only for their multifunction, versatile uses in 21st century cooking, but also for the style and contemporary colour accents they add.

Function and versatilityStyle may be an essential ingredient of food preparation products, but it has to be matched by function, ease of use and, above all, their perceived usefulness and relevance to today’s

T he Small Domestic Appliances market in the UK performed well in 2011, achieving 13.5% growth by value,

and the food preparation category was a star performer with 25.3% value growth. Mark Swift, director of marketing at Kenwood, notes that, within the food preparation category, kitchen machines’ year-on-year value growth was an outstanding 47.1%, food processors grew by 31.5%, blenders achieved a 24% uplift and hand mixers were up by 22%.

Clearly, during a diffi cult time for electrical retail, food preparation off ers opportunities for retailers who choose their products wisely and take advantage of the potential for both add-on sales to MDA and the “instant upgrade” that tabletop food preparation equipment can give to the look – and the performance – of a kitchen that doesn’t have the budget for a full-scale refurbishment.

Style and colourAs Kenwood’s Mark Swift comments, “consumers are currently investing in extending or refurbishing their existing homes rather than moving house. This has led to colours becoming a strong trend with consumers looking for stylish and colourful SDAs to help them revamp their kitchens.” There is no doubt that food preparation products, from the big, versatile multi-task kitchen machines to the handy hand blenders, have benefi ted from heightened focus on style and colour choices. Kenwood’s kMix range, including stand mixer, blender and hand mixer, is available in a choice of vibrant, modern colours, with the raspberry, almond and peppercorn options being joined in 2011 by striking striped stand mixers.

Tefal’s new countertop slicer, shredder and grater, the Fresh Express, sports a pearlescent ruby red body and rainbow attachments, to add, says Groupe SEB product manager Maria Montero, “some much-needed bright colour.” And AEG’s

“The breadth of choice, functions and prices makes this an ideal category for ‘real’ retailers”

Be prepared…

FOOD PREPARATION

C R E A T E M O R E

The only kitchen machinethat offers 4 featuresall in one unit.

*Gfk MAT January Volume and Value 2012

Why should you have the KenwoodChef Titanium on your shelf?• No1 brand in kitchen machines*

• Brand associated with quality, reliability, durability

• Only Kitchen Machine available offering 4 features in one unit (blender, food processor, bowl and slow attachment outlet)

• Strong motor performance (1400W) will cope with all food preparation tasks

• Large bowl capacity enables larger portions

• Premium quality attachments give better results

• Wide choice of additional attachments

• Achieves high customer satisfaction

• Full national advertising programme support this Easter

The KenwoodCHEF TITANIUM

Contact your local Sales Managerfor more information

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

Model shown KM010

OVE

R 60

YEARS of the CH

EF

EST 1950

Slow Speed Outlet

Medium Speed Outlet High Speed Outlet

Bowl Outlet

1

3

2

4

KEN_6907 Chef KM010 Trade Ad Master 210x297 Art.indd 1 08/03/2012 12:27

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED30

lifestyles and evolving eating habits. The trend towards fresh ingredients, healthy eating and real “made from scratch” home-prepared meals is developing alongside the increasing time-pressures of many households. So food preparation has to deliver the tastes, textures and freshness faster, better, and easier. People care more about preparing their own breads, cakes, fresh vegetables, meats, dressings, sauces and accompaniments from individually selected ingredients, but spending hours mixing, chopping, slicing, whisking, grating and blending by hand is not an option for the majority of time-poor households. Good food preparation products can solve that modern dilemma.

For retailers, the challenge and the opportunity is to explain how food preparation has emerged from the back of the cupboard to take its place as a valuable and constantly useful part of a 21st century lifestyle.

Products for today“Healthy eating,” says Groupe SEB’s Maria Montero, “continues to be a key market driver in the small domestic appliances market,” and Tefal’s new healthy food preparation products for 2012 capitalise on this trend. The new Tefal Fresh Express helps achieve the “fi ve a day” ideal in a compact countertop format that takes the eff ort out of shredding and slicing fruit and vegetables, and with its fi ve interchangeable onboard attachments delivers fi ne or thick slices,

coarse or fi ne shredding and grated cheese at the touch of a button. Its attachments are dishwasher-safe, and Its small footprint, integral attachment storage and stylish colours make it a device that can be kept handily on the worktop for frequent use. Tefal has teamed up with the British Heart Foundation to raise £50,000 in support of its healthy eating initiative through sales of the Tefal Fresh Express.

Also new from the Tefal food preparation range for 2012 are: the powerful and versatile QA400 Kitchen Machine with 4 litre stainless steel mixing bowl, electronic speed control and a full set of kneading, beating, whisking, blending, shredding and slicing attachments; the Vitacompact Food Processor with neat attachment storage and 3-litre bowl; and the Hapto Hand Blender complete with 450ml mini-chopper, metal whisk and detachable brushed stainless steel wand. Kenwood’s name is synonymous with the iconic Chef kitchen machine range, and the brand has continued to bring its experience and trusted status to bear on the development of fresh, modern food preparation products for the 21st century market. The possession of a long-established reputation in the sector, along with a sense of modern consumers’ needs and aspirations, are valuable assets. As director of marketing Mark Swift says: “Consumers rely on a brand’s reputation when making purchasing decisions so it’s essential for retailers to stock trusted brands. They are also looking for appliances which deliver performance and value for money, especially during a recession.”

Kenwood’s range of food preparation products is also a refl ection of the UK’s growing appetite for a choice of useful appliances that lighten the load and cut time and eff ort in the kitchen without compromising on freshness of ingredients or care in their preparation. From the classic multifunction Chef through the kMix range comprising stand mixers, blenders, hand blenders and hand mixers, this is one of a number of manufacturers who have worked on creating a broader consumer choice that is about delivering specifi c needs, from the power and versatility of the big kitchen machine to the quick, “instant deployment” of the blender.

Blenders, in fact, seem to have become the must-have appliance for many modern home

cooks, driven by the speed and ease with which so many TV chefs put the blender to work to prepare dressings, sauces, and pastes from fresh ingredients. AEG has entered this rich but competitive market with a new product – the AEG Powermix “Silent” blender, that not only performs all the vegetable and ice chopping and blending chores expected of a high-spec model, but can do it so quietly that normal level conversation can take place while it’s in opetation.

Worth their shelf space?It is important that food preparation devices earn their right to a place on the kitchen worktop, and it’s clear that those which look good, and meet the real demands of evolving modern lifestyles, have certainly done that.

But also, crucially for retailers, they have to justify the precious space they take up in-store, and earn their keep as revenue-generating, margin-making retail assets.

Because food preparation products are classed as “small appliances,” there is always a danger that they will be grouped with the “pile ‘em high, sell ‘em cheap”, wafer-thin margin products that electrical retailers have abandoned to the supermarkets and mass merchandisers. But food preparation is a very diff erent retail proposition, and can reward the “traditional” strengths of electricals specialists – intelligent product selection, product knowledge, customer understanding, sales skills – with profi table trade.

The breadth of choice, functions and prices makes this an ideal category for “real” retailers. A kitchen machine with all the functions can retail at £500 or £600, more than many MDA staples such as washing machines, fridges, ovens and hobs, but with a considerably smaller shopfl oor footprint in-store, and off ering a great deal more margin than a fl at panel TV set. At the other end of the price scale, a hand blender or small tabletop slicer/grater off ers opportunities as a standalone purchase with lifestyle appeal or an add-on to other kitchen equipment such as an oven or hob.

Food preparation really does have a strong relevance and appeal to customers who care more and more about healthy eating, “real” home cooking and fresh ingredients.

FOOD PREPARATION

KENWOOD’S KMIX STAND MIXER

“Spending hours mixing, chopping, slicing, whisking, grating and blending by hand is not an option for the majority of time-poor households”

TEFAL’S NEW FRESH EXPRESS SLICER/GRATER

Having been a statement in kitchen essentials for almost a century, Vitamix® meets an ever increasing demand for food and drinks that are tasty, fresh and highly nutritious. More and

more customers are looking for multi-function kitchen appliances that allow them to create a variety of healthy meals and drinks quickly and easily. Vitamix® is the perfect piece of kitchen kit for you to stock providing the solutions to your customers’ kitchen needs. Introducing The ToTal NuTriTioN CeNTre.

The Vitamix® Corporation has been privately owned and operated by the Barnard family since 1921. The company’s founder, W.G. Barnard, was a self-taught salesman of “modern” home products. In 1937, he introduced an all-new product--the blender--to his line. This was the very first Vitamix® machine.

In 1955, his son Bill Barnard took over the Vitamix® business with his wife Ruth. Ever in tune with the needs of the customer, Bill believed in giving people a kitchen appliance that went way beyond a blender, and then backing it up with excellent customer service. Vitamix® still holds true to this philosophy today. In 1964, shortly after Bill’s son Grover joined the business, the company name was officially changed to Vitamix® Corporation.

With the introduction of the “Kitchen Center” in

1969, the Vitamix 3600, and later the Vitamix 4000, Vitamix® truly revolutionized what could be done in a blender. The large motor and friction cooking capability enabled these machines to freeze and dispense solid ice cream, grind grain, cook soup and make a creamy, smooth juice from whole fruits and vegetables. Since then, the Vitamix® Corporation has continued to introduce a variety of kitchen appliances to both private households and the commercial market, always setting new standards in fresh food preparation.

Nestled in the valley of picturesque Olmsted Falls, Ohio, Vitamix® employs more than 300 people, has a global presence in more than 80 countries and continues to win awards for product innovation.

Visit www.vitamix.com.uk to learn more about Vitamix’s full line of kitchen products.

The Total Nutrition Centre is already in high demand. This piece of kit will enable your customers to perform more than 50 tasks, quicker, easier and faster with only one product, and without the washing up. From the health conscious to scratch cooks and the time poor, this multi-functional kitchen essential is a must for a broad range of consumers.

The Total Nutrition Centre’s variable speed control will allow your customer to make the dish of their choice, whether it’s blending and cooking a steaming hot soup, a chilled cocktail or flavoursome fruit sorbet – this machine can create something to suit every palate all in one place. The TNC comes in a number of derivatives such as red, white, black and stainless steel.

This kitchen essential is equipped with a horse-powered motor that generates blade speeds of up to 240 mph. The 2L wet blade container will allow your customers to puree soup for as many as six people or simply grind just a tablespoon of peppercorns. It also comes equipped with a spill-proof lid an easy to grip handle and soft touch controls.

Why sToCk ViTamix?

• Competitive margins• Live demonstrations available• The Vitamix® Total Nutrition Centre comes with a 7 year guarantee • The Vitamix® Total Nutrition Centre is approved by The Vegetarian Society

For more information on stocking the Vitamix Total Nutrition Centre and any other products in the range please contact NWring@vitamix.comor visit www.vitamix.co.uk

THE NEWToTalNuTriTioN CeNTre

The ulTimaTe soluTioN For The PerFeCT BleND oF TasTe & NuTriTioN

our hisTory

VitamixAdvertorialFV.indd 1 26/3/12 13:07:44

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED30

lifestyles and evolving eating habits. The trend towards fresh ingredients, healthy eating and real “made from scratch” home-prepared meals is developing alongside the increasing time-pressures of many households. So food preparation has to deliver the tastes, textures and freshness faster, better, and easier. People care more about preparing their own breads, cakes, fresh vegetables, meats, dressings, sauces and accompaniments from individually selected ingredients, but spending hours mixing, chopping, slicing, whisking, grating and blending by hand is not an option for the majority of time-poor households. Good food preparation products can solve that modern dilemma.

For retailers, the challenge and the opportunity is to explain how food preparation has emerged from the back of the cupboard to take its place as a valuable and constantly useful part of a 21st century lifestyle.

Products for today“Healthy eating,” says Groupe SEB’s Maria Montero, “continues to be a key market driver in the small domestic appliances market,” and Tefal’s new healthy food preparation products for 2012 capitalise on this trend. The new Tefal Fresh Express helps achieve the “fi ve a day” ideal in a compact countertop format that takes the eff ort out of shredding and slicing fruit and vegetables, and with its fi ve interchangeable onboard attachments delivers fi ne or thick slices,

coarse or fi ne shredding and grated cheese at the touch of a button. Its attachments are dishwasher-safe, and Its small footprint, integral attachment storage and stylish colours make it a device that can be kept handily on the worktop for frequent use. Tefal has teamed up with the British Heart Foundation to raise £50,000 in support of its healthy eating initiative through sales of the Tefal Fresh Express.

Also new from the Tefal food preparation range for 2012 are: the powerful and versatile QA400 Kitchen Machine with 4 litre stainless steel mixing bowl, electronic speed control and a full set of kneading, beating, whisking, blending, shredding and slicing attachments; the Vitacompact Food Processor with neat attachment storage and 3-litre bowl; and the Hapto Hand Blender complete with 450ml mini-chopper, metal whisk and detachable brushed stainless steel wand. Kenwood’s name is synonymous with the iconic Chef kitchen machine range, and the brand has continued to bring its experience and trusted status to bear on the development of fresh, modern food preparation products for the 21st century market. The possession of a long-established reputation in the sector, along with a sense of modern consumers’ needs and aspirations, are valuable assets. As director of marketing Mark Swift says: “Consumers rely on a brand’s reputation when making purchasing decisions so it’s essential for retailers to stock trusted brands. They are also looking for appliances which deliver performance and value for money, especially during a recession.”

Kenwood’s range of food preparation products is also a refl ection of the UK’s growing appetite for a choice of useful appliances that lighten the load and cut time and eff ort in the kitchen without compromising on freshness of ingredients or care in their preparation. From the classic multifunction Chef through the kMix range comprising stand mixers, blenders, hand blenders and hand mixers, this is one of a number of manufacturers who have worked on creating a broader consumer choice that is about delivering specifi c needs, from the power and versatility of the big kitchen machine to the quick, “instant deployment” of the blender.

Blenders, in fact, seem to have become the must-have appliance for many modern home

cooks, driven by the speed and ease with which so many TV chefs put the blender to work to prepare dressings, sauces, and pastes from fresh ingredients. AEG has entered this rich but competitive market with a new product – the AEG Powermix “Silent” blender, that not only performs all the vegetable and ice chopping and blending chores expected of a high-spec model, but can do it so quietly that normal level conversation can take place while it’s in opetation.

Worth their shelf space?It is important that food preparation devices earn their right to a place on the kitchen worktop, and it’s clear that those which look good, and meet the real demands of evolving modern lifestyles, have certainly done that.

But also, crucially for retailers, they have to justify the precious space they take up in-store, and earn their keep as revenue-generating, margin-making retail assets.

Because food preparation products are classed as “small appliances,” there is always a danger that they will be grouped with the “pile ‘em high, sell ‘em cheap”, wafer-thin margin products that electrical retailers have abandoned to the supermarkets and mass merchandisers. But food preparation is a very diff erent retail proposition, and can reward the “traditional” strengths of electricals specialists – intelligent product selection, product knowledge, customer understanding, sales skills – with profi table trade.

The breadth of choice, functions and prices makes this an ideal category for “real” retailers. A kitchen machine with all the functions can retail at £500 or £600, more than many MDA staples such as washing machines, fridges, ovens and hobs, but with a considerably smaller shopfl oor footprint in-store, and off ering a great deal more margin than a fl at panel TV set. At the other end of the price scale, a hand blender or small tabletop slicer/grater off ers opportunities as a standalone purchase with lifestyle appeal or an add-on to other kitchen equipment such as an oven or hob.

Food preparation really does have a strong relevance and appeal to customers who care more and more about healthy eating, “real” home cooking and fresh ingredients.

FOOD PREPARATION

KENWOOD’S KMIX STAND MIXER

“Spending hours mixing, chopping, slicing, whisking, grating and blending by hand is not an option for the majority of time-poor households”

TEFAL’S NEW FRESH EXPRESS SLICER/GRATER

Having been a statement in kitchen essentials for almost a century, Vitamix® meets an ever increasing demand for food and drinks that are tasty, fresh and highly nutritious. More and

more customers are looking for multi-function kitchen appliances that allow them to create a variety of healthy meals and drinks quickly and easily. Vitamix® is the perfect piece of kitchen kit for you to stock providing the solutions to your customers’ kitchen needs. Introducing The ToTal NuTriTioN CeNTre.

The Vitamix® Corporation has been privately owned and operated by the Barnard family since 1921. The company’s founder, W.G. Barnard, was a self-taught salesman of “modern” home products. In 1937, he introduced an all-new product--the blender--to his line. This was the very first Vitamix® machine.

In 1955, his son Bill Barnard took over the Vitamix® business with his wife Ruth. Ever in tune with the needs of the customer, Bill believed in giving people a kitchen appliance that went way beyond a blender, and then backing it up with excellent customer service. Vitamix® still holds true to this philosophy today. In 1964, shortly after Bill’s son Grover joined the business, the company name was officially changed to Vitamix® Corporation.

With the introduction of the “Kitchen Center” in

1969, the Vitamix 3600, and later the Vitamix 4000, Vitamix® truly revolutionized what could be done in a blender. The large motor and friction cooking capability enabled these machines to freeze and dispense solid ice cream, grind grain, cook soup and make a creamy, smooth juice from whole fruits and vegetables. Since then, the Vitamix® Corporation has continued to introduce a variety of kitchen appliances to both private households and the commercial market, always setting new standards in fresh food preparation.

Nestled in the valley of picturesque Olmsted Falls, Ohio, Vitamix® employs more than 300 people, has a global presence in more than 80 countries and continues to win awards for product innovation.

Visit www.vitamix.com.uk to learn more about Vitamix’s full line of kitchen products.

The Total Nutrition Centre is already in high demand. This piece of kit will enable your customers to perform more than 50 tasks, quicker, easier and faster with only one product, and without the washing up. From the health conscious to scratch cooks and the time poor, this multi-functional kitchen essential is a must for a broad range of consumers.

The Total Nutrition Centre’s variable speed control will allow your customer to make the dish of their choice, whether it’s blending and cooking a steaming hot soup, a chilled cocktail or flavoursome fruit sorbet – this machine can create something to suit every palate all in one place. The TNC comes in a number of derivatives such as red, white, black and stainless steel.

This kitchen essential is equipped with a horse-powered motor that generates blade speeds of up to 240 mph. The 2L wet blade container will allow your customers to puree soup for as many as six people or simply grind just a tablespoon of peppercorns. It also comes equipped with a spill-proof lid an easy to grip handle and soft touch controls.

Why sToCk ViTamix?

• Competitive margins• Live demonstrations available• The Vitamix® Total Nutrition Centre comes with a 7 year guarantee • The Vitamix® Total Nutrition Centre is approved by The Vegetarian Society

For more information on stocking the Vitamix Total Nutrition Centre and any other products in the range please contact NWring@vitamix.comor visit www.vitamix.co.uk

THE NEWToTalNuTriTioN CeNTre

The ulTimaTe soluTioN For The PerFeCT BleND oF TasTe & NuTriTioN

our hisTory

VitamixAdvertorialFV.indd 1 26/3/12 13:07:44

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED32

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N TBUILTIN COOKING

The built-in cooking market in the UK has traditionally been where new technology, features and designs make their debuts, and has been seen as the more innovative, vibrant relative of the more staid and more basic freestanding market. This is still true to an extent, and it is to the built-in appliances that retailers and their customers look for the new, the stylish and the technologically advanced.

a sector such as ovens, which are absolutely central to British family and social life. Upgrade, refreshment and replacement in the “heart of the home” is a viable route to take for those whose budgets don’t stretch to the full kitchen replacement, and for those who have got some money to invest, the kitchen is a high priority.

As Beko’s Les Wicks says, “the replacement market becomes the key segment for growth, as furniture sales are lower due to consumers refraining from purchasing new kitchens, and replacement channels have grown their share within the built-in market.”

Jon Brennan, commercial manager for built-in at GDHA (Belling, Stoves, New World) adds: “The built-in oven market is an exciting one because of the breadth of choice it off ers

to consumers across a full spectrum of price points. Product innovation in the multi-function arena is continuing to shape the market, as consumers demand versatility and intelligent features. Previously limited to only the most expensive products, the multi-function options on many built-in ovens have been successfully adopted by mid-market brands such as Belling and have been quickly and eagerly adopted by consumers looking for high-end technology with a reasonable price tag.”

The growing importance of the built-in multifunction oven option was also identifi ed by Gorenje sales and marketing director Bill Miller, who, while conceding that the cooking market as a whole has been “challenging” over the past year, says, however, that “there was still a replacement market, which proved a valuable source of sales. Built-in ovens have become far more popular, with many consumers upgrading to them over their freestanding counterparts, as they off er greater choice, functionality, more attractive designs and more innovative technology. There has certainly been growth in this sector, with real interest in built-in ovens which off er automatic programming, a large capacity, strong energy rating and stylish design.”

For Libby Morley, Indesit advertising and communications manager, “the main thrust for 2012 will be to add value to the cooking market, especially as 2011 has been a tough year all round for everyone.” She believes the

T he corollary to this was the expectation that sales of built-in would always lag behind standalone in terms of

volume and value, since built-in represented the “cutting edge” and could not match the “mainstream” volumes of freestanding in what is largely a conservative UK market. However, even in the last few diffi cult years, built-in has been gaining ground. In 2010, built-in actually achieved growth of 2.9% in volume to reach some 628,000 units, and an impressive 9.14% increase in value to nearly £230 million. This was against a 1.46% decline in freestanding volume in the same period, indicating that, notwithstanding the economic pressure on UK households, the balance was shifting in favour of built-in.

Current market dynamics That built-in growth could not be sustained in 2011. Les Wicks, head of product and buying at Beko plc, points out that the UK built-in ovens

market suff ered a 2.9% deterioration in volume in 2011, compared to 2010. But, on the upside, value decreased only 0.9% in the same period, saved by a 0.5% uplift in average price.

And there are other encouraging factors. As Richard Walker, sales and marketing director at De Dietrich Kitchen Appliances (De Dietrich and Fagor brands) remarks: “Contrary to recent statistics, the cooking market is continuing to grow in the independent kitchen specialist sector and there was a defi nite air of optimism at KBB Birmingham in March. Speaking with other members in the industry, the general consensus was that while the market remained tough throughout 2011, the industry has benefi ted from an infl ux of technological advances, and no more so than in cooking products.”

Miele’s kitchen category manager Neil Pooley is also inclined to be upbeat. “The cooking market is still slightly down,” he says, “with the middle market feeling the most pressure and the high end remaining more resilient. However, it is becoming more stable and improving from last year. I am feeling increasingly positive about next year. I expect to see the trend for steam and steam combination cooking to continue to grow in popularity, with consumers enjoying larger capacities and more professional results at home.”

It seems that hard times modify consumers’ buying behaviour in more complex ways than a simple price-based decision, especially in

Built-In opportunities

“I am feeling increasingly positive about next year”

MIELE COMBI HOB CONFIGURATION

33MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N T

multifunction oven is a value-added proposition, helping consumers “make the most of their money, with features that will save them energy and time so they can get on with their busy day.”

Replacement powerThe motivation for buying a new built-in oven may be either as part of a new kitchen, or as a replacement or upgrade appliance in an existing kitchen. Mike Jarrett, sales director of Neff , notes: “Neff research suggests that there has been a steady increase in the share of sales being made by people ‘replacing’ built-in appliances, which suggests that the main market driver at present is kitchen refurbishment or simple replacement of existing models. However, ‘replacement’ sales volumes are only a little up on historical levels, which refl ects the impact of signifi cantly lower sales in the ‘new installation’ sector. Here consumers are less inclined or less able to move house and are thinking twice about investing lots of money into new kitchens in the current economic downturn.”

Whatever the buying motivation, or budget constraints, the multi-function oven appears increasingly to be a popular built-in choice. As noted, multi-function oven versatility has crossed over from the premium end of the market and permeated the sector with a fresh set of aff ordable options. Whirlpool product marketing manager Simona Bara confi rms that the multifunction oven has been most successful in resisting the general decline in the built-in market, and “manufacturers are getting more out of each appliance, even though it occupies the same footprint. Multi-functionality, ease of use and perfect results are a top priority for the consumer today. We anticipate that the trends in the foreseeable future for appliances will be increasingly intelligent, intuitive cooking systems, electronically controlled with automatic programmes to maximise energy effi ciency.”

High function, highly featuredThe strong trends emerging in ovens are “intelligent”, user-friendly systems and programmes, and intuitive controls and displays that help produce best results across all types of cooking; energy saving appliances; the growing appeal of using steam as part of the cooking process; and, of course, self-cleaning systems that remove or minimise the most disliked of kitchen chores – cleaning the oven. Sophie Davidson, head of product UK at Electrolux Major Appliances, advises: “Features to look for when choosing an oven may not be obvious at fi rst, but choosing carefully can make a real diff erence to results. Multifunction ovens off er various cooking methods for diff erent ways of cooking: pizza, turbo grilling, moist fan baking. Ovens featuring pyrolytic cleaning and steam

ovens are increasing in popularity.” Amica country manager in the UK Simon Freear says of consumers buying a kitchen or major cooking appliances: “it’s only natural, when making such an important purchase, to trade up from existing equipment; to almost ‘future-proof’ the kitchen against becoming old before it’s been installed barely a couple of years, and for this, built-in appliances with intelligent programming and modern displays are the way forward. Features of convenience such as self cleaning, smart programming and personalisation, and steam, are on the up for presenting guests and everyday family meals with more taste and nutritional health benefi ts. Feature-rich ovens off er so much more than basic models; demand for these helped to drive the cooking market in 2011 and will continue to do so throughout 2012.” Hotpoint brand manager Iain Starkey continues the high technology theme: “Today’s consumers are used to having state-of-the-art technology at their fi ngertips, so they demand technology

BUILTIN COOKING

Built-In opportunities

“The main thrust for 2012 will be to add value to the cooking market”

HOTPOINT NEWSTYLE

GAS HOB

DE DIETRICH HOB & TEPPAN YAKI TEAMED WITH INNOVATIVE DOWNDRAFT EXTRACTOR

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED32

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N TBUILTIN COOKING

The built-in cooking market in the UK has traditionally been where new technology, features and designs make their debuts, and has been seen as the more innovative, vibrant relative of the more staid and more basic freestanding market. This is still true to an extent, and it is to the built-in appliances that retailers and their customers look for the new, the stylish and the technologically advanced.

a sector such as ovens, which are absolutely central to British family and social life. Upgrade, refreshment and replacement in the “heart of the home” is a viable route to take for those whose budgets don’t stretch to the full kitchen replacement, and for those who have got some money to invest, the kitchen is a high priority.

As Beko’s Les Wicks says, “the replacement market becomes the key segment for growth, as furniture sales are lower due to consumers refraining from purchasing new kitchens, and replacement channels have grown their share within the built-in market.”

Jon Brennan, commercial manager for built-in at GDHA (Belling, Stoves, New World) adds: “The built-in oven market is an exciting one because of the breadth of choice it off ers

to consumers across a full spectrum of price points. Product innovation in the multi-function arena is continuing to shape the market, as consumers demand versatility and intelligent features. Previously limited to only the most expensive products, the multi-function options on many built-in ovens have been successfully adopted by mid-market brands such as Belling and have been quickly and eagerly adopted by consumers looking for high-end technology with a reasonable price tag.”

The growing importance of the built-in multifunction oven option was also identifi ed by Gorenje sales and marketing director Bill Miller, who, while conceding that the cooking market as a whole has been “challenging” over the past year, says, however, that “there was still a replacement market, which proved a valuable source of sales. Built-in ovens have become far more popular, with many consumers upgrading to them over their freestanding counterparts, as they off er greater choice, functionality, more attractive designs and more innovative technology. There has certainly been growth in this sector, with real interest in built-in ovens which off er automatic programming, a large capacity, strong energy rating and stylish design.”

For Libby Morley, Indesit advertising and communications manager, “the main thrust for 2012 will be to add value to the cooking market, especially as 2011 has been a tough year all round for everyone.” She believes the

T he corollary to this was the expectation that sales of built-in would always lag behind standalone in terms of

volume and value, since built-in represented the “cutting edge” and could not match the “mainstream” volumes of freestanding in what is largely a conservative UK market. However, even in the last few diffi cult years, built-in has been gaining ground. In 2010, built-in actually achieved growth of 2.9% in volume to reach some 628,000 units, and an impressive 9.14% increase in value to nearly £230 million. This was against a 1.46% decline in freestanding volume in the same period, indicating that, notwithstanding the economic pressure on UK households, the balance was shifting in favour of built-in.

Current market dynamics That built-in growth could not be sustained in 2011. Les Wicks, head of product and buying at Beko plc, points out that the UK built-in ovens

market suff ered a 2.9% deterioration in volume in 2011, compared to 2010. But, on the upside, value decreased only 0.9% in the same period, saved by a 0.5% uplift in average price.

And there are other encouraging factors. As Richard Walker, sales and marketing director at De Dietrich Kitchen Appliances (De Dietrich and Fagor brands) remarks: “Contrary to recent statistics, the cooking market is continuing to grow in the independent kitchen specialist sector and there was a defi nite air of optimism at KBB Birmingham in March. Speaking with other members in the industry, the general consensus was that while the market remained tough throughout 2011, the industry has benefi ted from an infl ux of technological advances, and no more so than in cooking products.”

Miele’s kitchen category manager Neil Pooley is also inclined to be upbeat. “The cooking market is still slightly down,” he says, “with the middle market feeling the most pressure and the high end remaining more resilient. However, it is becoming more stable and improving from last year. I am feeling increasingly positive about next year. I expect to see the trend for steam and steam combination cooking to continue to grow in popularity, with consumers enjoying larger capacities and more professional results at home.”

It seems that hard times modify consumers’ buying behaviour in more complex ways than a simple price-based decision, especially in

Built-In opportunities

“I am feeling increasingly positive about next year”

MIELE COMBI HOB CONFIGURATION

33MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N T

multifunction oven is a value-added proposition, helping consumers “make the most of their money, with features that will save them energy and time so they can get on with their busy day.”

Replacement powerThe motivation for buying a new built-in oven may be either as part of a new kitchen, or as a replacement or upgrade appliance in an existing kitchen. Mike Jarrett, sales director of Neff , notes: “Neff research suggests that there has been a steady increase in the share of sales being made by people ‘replacing’ built-in appliances, which suggests that the main market driver at present is kitchen refurbishment or simple replacement of existing models. However, ‘replacement’ sales volumes are only a little up on historical levels, which refl ects the impact of signifi cantly lower sales in the ‘new installation’ sector. Here consumers are less inclined or less able to move house and are thinking twice about investing lots of money into new kitchens in the current economic downturn.”

Whatever the buying motivation, or budget constraints, the multi-function oven appears increasingly to be a popular built-in choice. As noted, multi-function oven versatility has crossed over from the premium end of the market and permeated the sector with a fresh set of aff ordable options. Whirlpool product marketing manager Simona Bara confi rms that the multifunction oven has been most successful in resisting the general decline in the built-in market, and “manufacturers are getting more out of each appliance, even though it occupies the same footprint. Multi-functionality, ease of use and perfect results are a top priority for the consumer today. We anticipate that the trends in the foreseeable future for appliances will be increasingly intelligent, intuitive cooking systems, electronically controlled with automatic programmes to maximise energy effi ciency.”

High function, highly featuredThe strong trends emerging in ovens are “intelligent”, user-friendly systems and programmes, and intuitive controls and displays that help produce best results across all types of cooking; energy saving appliances; the growing appeal of using steam as part of the cooking process; and, of course, self-cleaning systems that remove or minimise the most disliked of kitchen chores – cleaning the oven. Sophie Davidson, head of product UK at Electrolux Major Appliances, advises: “Features to look for when choosing an oven may not be obvious at fi rst, but choosing carefully can make a real diff erence to results. Multifunction ovens off er various cooking methods for diff erent ways of cooking: pizza, turbo grilling, moist fan baking. Ovens featuring pyrolytic cleaning and steam

ovens are increasing in popularity.” Amica country manager in the UK Simon Freear says of consumers buying a kitchen or major cooking appliances: “it’s only natural, when making such an important purchase, to trade up from existing equipment; to almost ‘future-proof’ the kitchen against becoming old before it’s been installed barely a couple of years, and for this, built-in appliances with intelligent programming and modern displays are the way forward. Features of convenience such as self cleaning, smart programming and personalisation, and steam, are on the up for presenting guests and everyday family meals with more taste and nutritional health benefi ts. Feature-rich ovens off er so much more than basic models; demand for these helped to drive the cooking market in 2011 and will continue to do so throughout 2012.” Hotpoint brand manager Iain Starkey continues the high technology theme: “Today’s consumers are used to having state-of-the-art technology at their fi ngertips, so they demand technology

BUILTIN COOKING

Built-In opportunities

“The main thrust for 2012 will be to add value to the cooking market”

HOTPOINT NEWSTYLE

GAS HOB

DE DIETRICH HOB & TEPPAN YAKI TEAMED WITH INNOVATIVE DOWNDRAFT EXTRACTOR

that will make life easier in the kitchen. The main trend now is for easy to use but sophisticated programmes that give inexperienced cooks the confi dence to create meals worthy of accomplished chefs.”

InductionThe British way of hob cooking has traditionally favoured gas. It’s seen as controllable, fast and familiar, and still takes the largest share of the UK hobs market by volume, so most major cooking manufacturers have continued to develop and refi ne their gas hob ranges with diff erent confi gurations, formats, fi nishes, safety features and ultra-modern materials and fi nishes.

Gas remains a major hob cooking fuel, and manufacturers’ eff orts to keep it looking good and performing well will continue to deliver rewards. But the big growth story in hobs continues to be induction, where its speed, elegance of design, effi ciency, controllability, safety and ease of cleaning have, after a slow start, accelerated its inroads into the hobs market, and its penetration of all price points. As Whirlpool’s Simona Bara

notes, in the year to December 2011 “gas still takes biggest share of the market by volume. But only just. Gas hobs show little growth for the period (0.4% up on the previous year), whilst electric hobs are up by 1.5%. However, the most successful player in the market is the induction hob with a volume increase of 13% for the period, which is the largest increase of any hob sector. The attractiveness of induction hobs, with their sleekness of style and beautiful looks in in-built speed, safety and effi ciency means they are working their way up the consumer’s list of ‘must-haves’ for those seeking to make their kitchen a very desirable part of the home. People love the power of the fl ame, but it is now only a matter of time before induction hobs challenge the gas hob for its crown.”

The success of induction has been rooted in continued development of fresh confi gurations and refi ned technologies at the high end, whilst it has, at the same time, succeeded in penetrating the mid and entry level sectors with

aff ordably priced models that have democratised and popularised the technology. Manufacturers such as induction pioneers De Dietrich – And sister brand Fagor - have broadened its appeal by ensuring that both high-end and mid-market models are available; Neff , Siemens, Smeg, Miele continue to make induction an integral part of their cooking ranges, and there are few manufacturers, from Amica and Beko to Whirlpool and Zanussi, who have not produced

highly desirable induction hobs at appropriate price points. At the cutting edge, sophisticated “fl exi-zoning” and “zoneless” confi gurations, touch and slide controls and a range of outstanding designs, fi nishes and layouts present the most sophisticated and effi cient hob cooking, while

the technology has also emerged in freestanding cookers, and even in the traditional world of range cookers.

As ATAG’s Bill Miller says: “We believe there will be real development in the induction hob market in particular during 2012, as more and more people are becoming aware of the huge

benefi ts it off ers as a cooking medium. This is a product that certainly has the potential for further improvement, so we believe 2012 will see the introduction of new features and functions. In addition, we will see the introduction of more consumer friendly features such as menu selection, where diff erent cooking styles can be easily called up.”

Into 2012Nobody can claim that 2011 was a great year for built-in cooking, but, as electricals go, it is a sector that has held up remarkably well and continued to produce outstanding products – at all price points – to satisfy the hunger for sophisticated technology, and for the designs, materials and joined-up thinking that UK consumers, even in times of economic hardship, see as a priority expression of aspirational lifestyle and practical home life.

Cooking will not go out of style, nor will it cease to be the core activity that takes place at the “heart of the home” and contributes more than any other to consumer comfort, satisfaction and social interaction. When it comes to the kitchen, and the appliances it contains, UK consumers see it as an area where they want the best they can get, and they will make decisions about expenditure that refl ect the central importance of cooking in their lives.

BUILTIN COOKING

“It is now only a matter of time before induction hobs challenge the gas hob for its crown”

34 GET CONNECTED MARCH/APRIL 2012

AEG’S PROCOMBI STEAM OVEN

FAGOR DESIGNER EXTRACTORS COMPLEMENT THE EFFECT

ZANUSSI’S QUADRO INDUCTION HOB

35MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

The second generation of award-winning new ZANUSSI QUADRO® built-in appliances has arrived!

Pared-down geometry meets simplifi ed controlsZanussi is launching a fantastic NEW QUADRO® range of built-in appliances for people who’d rather spend time with family and friends than spend it doing chores. Sleek and stylish, the new QUADRO® range offers a simple geometric look with easy to use controls that look good and work beautifully.

Striking Branding set to turn heads in storeThe refreshed Zanussi brand is bright, bold and provides a strong platform to continue our successful brand-building activities. Simplifying the strong yellow Zanussi colour while underlining the logo with the colours of the Italian fl ag maximises consumer recognition and standout in-store.

New ZANUSSI QUADRO®

Hot looks, hot functions. Easy!The stunning new range comprises a wide choice of built-in and build under single, double and compact ovens, all featuring the new QUADRO® design and extra-large cavities. Matching cooker hoods and a wide range of gas, electric, induction and domino hobs ensure a complete offering for customers. The new ovens include pyrolytic models and all are energy effi cient.

THE NEW TOPOFTHERANGE ZANUSSI ZOD35702XK DOUBLECAVITY OVEN OFFERS COOKING FLEXIBILITY AND SPACE

THE NEW ZANUSSI ZEI6640XBA INDUCTION HOB

Cool Products, Cool Features. Easy!The whole new ZANUSSI QUADRO® cooling range – built-in and freestanding – is now A+ rated. That’s 20% more effi cient than an A rating. Whether your customer wants built-in or freestanding cooling appliances, Zanussi has it covered with a great choice of models and lots of ‘sell up’ potential.

Built-in: For example, the 280 litre Zanussi ZBB8294 in-column fridge freezer features Space +, ideal for those who want to do a big weekly shop for fresh food!

Freestanding models include the stunning ZRB935NX2, packed with fantastic features like CrispNoFrost that ensures food is preserved properly, staying fresh for as long as possible.

THE NEW ZANUSSI ZRB935NX2 FREESTANDING FRIDGE FREEZER

Doing the Dishes. EASY!The new Zanussi built-in dishwasher range offers excellent value. There is a wide choice of models with good sell-up opportunities. Highlights of the range are large-capacity washing, low energy consumption, low water consumption and Auto programmes that do the thinking for you!

New integrated washing machine and washer dryers make light work of the weekly wash.

Zanussi’s washing machines and washer dryers are now bigger and more effi cient than ever before! The new, fully integrated A++ rated model washes more clothes in a load whilst using up to 20% less energy than a standard A rated model.

that will make life easier in the kitchen. The main trend now is for easy to use but sophisticated programmes that give inexperienced cooks the confi dence to create meals worthy of accomplished chefs.”

InductionThe British way of hob cooking has traditionally favoured gas. It’s seen as controllable, fast and familiar, and still takes the largest share of the UK hobs market by volume, so most major cooking manufacturers have continued to develop and refi ne their gas hob ranges with diff erent confi gurations, formats, fi nishes, safety features and ultra-modern materials and fi nishes.

Gas remains a major hob cooking fuel, and manufacturers’ eff orts to keep it looking good and performing well will continue to deliver rewards. But the big growth story in hobs continues to be induction, where its speed, elegance of design, effi ciency, controllability, safety and ease of cleaning have, after a slow start, accelerated its inroads into the hobs market, and its penetration of all price points. As Whirlpool’s Simona Bara

notes, in the year to December 2011 “gas still takes biggest share of the market by volume. But only just. Gas hobs show little growth for the period (0.4% up on the previous year), whilst electric hobs are up by 1.5%. However, the most successful player in the market is the induction hob with a volume increase of 13% for the period, which is the largest increase of any hob sector. The attractiveness of induction hobs, with their sleekness of style and beautiful looks in in-built speed, safety and effi ciency means they are working their way up the consumer’s list of ‘must-haves’ for those seeking to make their kitchen a very desirable part of the home. People love the power of the fl ame, but it is now only a matter of time before induction hobs challenge the gas hob for its crown.”

The success of induction has been rooted in continued development of fresh confi gurations and refi ned technologies at the high end, whilst it has, at the same time, succeeded in penetrating the mid and entry level sectors with

aff ordably priced models that have democratised and popularised the technology. Manufacturers such as induction pioneers De Dietrich – And sister brand Fagor - have broadened its appeal by ensuring that both high-end and mid-market models are available; Neff , Siemens, Smeg, Miele continue to make induction an integral part of their cooking ranges, and there are few manufacturers, from Amica and Beko to Whirlpool and Zanussi, who have not produced

highly desirable induction hobs at appropriate price points. At the cutting edge, sophisticated “fl exi-zoning” and “zoneless” confi gurations, touch and slide controls and a range of outstanding designs, fi nishes and layouts present the most sophisticated and effi cient hob cooking, while

the technology has also emerged in freestanding cookers, and even in the traditional world of range cookers.

As ATAG’s Bill Miller says: “We believe there will be real development in the induction hob market in particular during 2012, as more and more people are becoming aware of the huge

benefi ts it off ers as a cooking medium. This is a product that certainly has the potential for further improvement, so we believe 2012 will see the introduction of new features and functions. In addition, we will see the introduction of more consumer friendly features such as menu selection, where diff erent cooking styles can be easily called up.”

Into 2012Nobody can claim that 2011 was a great year for built-in cooking, but, as electricals go, it is a sector that has held up remarkably well and continued to produce outstanding products – at all price points – to satisfy the hunger for sophisticated technology, and for the designs, materials and joined-up thinking that UK consumers, even in times of economic hardship, see as a priority expression of aspirational lifestyle and practical home life.

Cooking will not go out of style, nor will it cease to be the core activity that takes place at the “heart of the home” and contributes more than any other to consumer comfort, satisfaction and social interaction. When it comes to the kitchen, and the appliances it contains, UK consumers see it as an area where they want the best they can get, and they will make decisions about expenditure that refl ect the central importance of cooking in their lives.

BUILTIN COOKING

“It is now only a matter of time before induction hobs challenge the gas hob for its crown”

34 GET CONNECTED MARCH/APRIL 2012

AEG’S PROCOMBI STEAM OVEN

FAGOR DESIGNER EXTRACTORS COMPLEMENT THE EFFECT

ZANUSSI’S QUADRO INDUCTION HOB

35MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

The second generation of award-winning new ZANUSSI QUADRO® built-in appliances has arrived!

Pared-down geometry meets simplifi ed controlsZanussi is launching a fantastic NEW QUADRO® range of built-in appliances for people who’d rather spend time with family and friends than spend it doing chores. Sleek and stylish, the new QUADRO® range offers a simple geometric look with easy to use controls that look good and work beautifully.

Striking Branding set to turn heads in storeThe refreshed Zanussi brand is bright, bold and provides a strong platform to continue our successful brand-building activities. Simplifying the strong yellow Zanussi colour while underlining the logo with the colours of the Italian fl ag maximises consumer recognition and standout in-store.

New ZANUSSI QUADRO®

Hot looks, hot functions. Easy!The stunning new range comprises a wide choice of built-in and build under single, double and compact ovens, all featuring the new QUADRO® design and extra-large cavities. Matching cooker hoods and a wide range of gas, electric, induction and domino hobs ensure a complete offering for customers. The new ovens include pyrolytic models and all are energy effi cient.

THE NEW TOPOFTHERANGE ZANUSSI ZOD35702XK DOUBLECAVITY OVEN OFFERS COOKING FLEXIBILITY AND SPACE

THE NEW ZANUSSI ZEI6640XBA INDUCTION HOB

Cool Products, Cool Features. Easy!The whole new ZANUSSI QUADRO® cooling range – built-in and freestanding – is now A+ rated. That’s 20% more effi cient than an A rating. Whether your customer wants built-in or freestanding cooling appliances, Zanussi has it covered with a great choice of models and lots of ‘sell up’ potential.

Built-in: For example, the 280 litre Zanussi ZBB8294 in-column fridge freezer features Space +, ideal for those who want to do a big weekly shop for fresh food!

Freestanding models include the stunning ZRB935NX2, packed with fantastic features like CrispNoFrost that ensures food is preserved properly, staying fresh for as long as possible.

THE NEW ZANUSSI ZRB935NX2 FREESTANDING FRIDGE FREEZER

Doing the Dishes. EASY!The new Zanussi built-in dishwasher range offers excellent value. There is a wide choice of models with good sell-up opportunities. Highlights of the range are large-capacity washing, low energy consumption, low water consumption and Auto programmes that do the thinking for you!

New integrated washing machine and washer dryers make light work of the weekly wash.

Zanussi’s washing machines and washer dryers are now bigger and more effi cient than ever before! The new, fully integrated A++ rated model washes more clothes in a load whilst using up to 20% less energy than a standard A rated model.

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED36

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N TTHE GOURMET QUARTER

Trend-setting ‘mini cookers’ from Baumatic

Baumatic has launched a new series of coloured retro-style mini cookers in a choice of gas or electric fuel. A cooker without the

“range”, the space-saving, all-in-one cook centres are designed to fi t into a compact 50cm-wide slot.

� e double-A rated BCE520 electric model has two substantially sized cavities – one housing a 26.5-litre gross capacity grill and the other a 54-litre gross capacity conventional oven. It also features an LED minute minder and a four-plate electric hob.

� e BCG520 gas model also provides two generously sized cavities – one with a 26.5-litre gross capacity gas grill and the other a 54-litre gross capacity oven. � e four-burner gas hob includes a rapid burner, and the appliance is super safe, incorporating a fl ame failure safety device on each burner as well as double-glazed oven doors to lock in the heat. Both the BCE520 and BCG520

are available in a choice of red, black or silver fi nishes, providing a striking, standout feature for any kitchen, and come with a number of practical accessories.

Inject Colour into Any Kitchen with Stoves Colour Boutique

The 90cm dual fuel Stoves Richmond 900DFT in ‘First Bloom’ is part of Colour Boutique, a new colour concept from leading appliance brands Stoves and Belling which gives consumers the

opportunity to choose from 12 inspiring colours across some of the brands’ most popular range cookers. Colour Boutique can be applied to all size and fuel variants of the Stoves Richmond and Belling

Classic range cookers, off ering a total of 180 personalised colour/cooker combinations, which is believed to be the biggest colour off ering in the market.

Combining four seasonal trends – Fresh Spring, Summer Splash, Autumn Chic and Urban Winter – Colour Boutique off ers three fashion-led colours from each of the four seasons. � e themes off er a mix of dazzling bright colours, such as First Bloom, Rolling Countryside and Floral Burst to softer colours

such as Day’s Break (a pastel blue shade) and Wild Berry (a deep purple).

For more information telephone: 0844 815 3735 or visit: www.stoves.co.uk/boutique

De’Longhi PrimaDonna S DeLuxe coffee machine

De’Longhi, the expert in domestic coff ee machines, introduces the new

PrimaDonna S DeLuxe – the most compact and feature-rich bean-to-cup coff ee machine to date.

� is chic appliance not only froths and heats the milk in its patented milk carafe, but also comes with a nozzle feature that allows users to froth their own. Its ‘My Coff ee’ memory function provides the facility to store the exact temperature and quantity of ingredients for users’ perfect cappuccino, and the machine will perform an automatic cleaning cycle at the touch of a button.

Boasting an easy-to-read, slanted display with metallic touch-screen buttons, the PrimaDonna S DeLuxe has a compact footprint and sleek, miniature design. RRP: £1,095

www.delonghi.co.ukColour and style from New World’s ‘Colours’ Collection of built-in products

The New World NW901DO is a 90cm built-in double oven, shown here in metallic purple.

� e Energy Saving Trust recommended appliance is part of Colours, New World’s latest collection of built-in ovens.

Available across a choice of sizes and fuel types, the Colours collection features a range of single and double built-in ovens which contrast black glass with a brightly coloured trim in metallic purple, blue, green or red, and for those looking for something extra special, an ultra-shiny chrome fi nish. � e newly designed ovens are also available with the more traditional fi nishes of white, black and stainless steel.

For more information telephone: 0844 815 3735 or visit: www.newworldappliances.co.uk

37MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N T THE GOURMET QUARTER

Inject Colour into Any Kitchen with Stoves Colour Boutique

The 90cm dual fuel Stoves Richmond 900DFT in ‘First Bloom’ is part of Colour Boutique, a new colour concept from leading appliance brands Stoves and Belling which gives consumers the

opportunity to choose from 12 inspiring colours across some of the brands’ most popular range cookers. Colour Boutique can be applied to all size and fuel variants of the Stoves Richmond and Belling

Classic range cookers, off ering a total of 180 personalised colour/cooker combinations, which is believed to be the biggest colour off ering in the market.

Combining four seasonal trends – Fresh Spring, Summer Splash, Autumn Chic and Urban Winter – Colour Boutique off ers three fashion-led colours from each of the four seasons. � e themes off er a mix of dazzling bright colours, such as First Bloom, Rolling Countryside and Floral Burst to softer colours

such as Day’s Break (a pastel blue shade) and Wild Berry (a deep purple).

For more information telephone: 0844 815 3735 or visit: www.stoves.co.uk/boutique

Zanussi’s new induction hob boils and cooks faster

The ZEI6640XBA induction hob is part of the stunning new Zanussi QUADRO® built-in range. Design features include smooth, wipe-clean black ceramic surfaces, brushed stainless steel frame and

electronic touch-sensitive controls with 9-level power display.� is new 60-cm, four-zone induction hob will cook very quickly as it

heats up the bottom of the pan instantly using magnetic power, rather than radiant heat via the glass cooking surface as traditional ceramic hobs do. Highlights of this new model include a booster function and a Set & Go timer.

Trade contact details: 08445 610561www.zanussi.co.uk

De Dietrich ‘Piano’ hob: the future of induction

De Dietrich’s ‘Piano’ is the world’s most advanced and versatile zoneless induction hob.

� e 93cm appliance challenges all previous induction concepts, with full zoneless cooking for up to fi ve pans, and brings the functionality of the professional cooktop to the domestic kitchen.

Off ering the ultimate in cooking freedom, Piano features an intuitive interface on a full-colour TFT screen, making it very simple to use. Time and temperature can be individually adjusted using a touch-sensitive slide control.

� e beauty of the De Dietrich Piano is that it enables the user to experience true zoneless cooking and features Automatic Pan Detection across the entire cooking area. � e hob has been developed and designed to function using three simply defi ned cooking modes: Expert, Piano and Solo, and its Power Tracker is so advanced that, if a pan is lifted away from the surface and re-sited anywhere on the cooking area, the required temperature will remain constant.

01256 308 067 www.dedietrich.co.uk

Neff FlexInduction: maximum flexibility with minimum effort

FlexInduction hobs have one or two elongated induction zones, which create a total cooking area each of 380mm x 200mm, providing consistent heat across the whole of this surface and

accommodating the placing of one very large pan, or any combination of large, medium and small pans, anywhere on this area.

Sophisticated pan detection technology identifi es the size and positioning of each pan, and activates the right combination of specially designed independent coils to achieve the most effi cient cooking. � e technology is sophisticated, but the benefi t is simple and immediate: any pan, or combination of pans, of any size, can be placed on the big FlexInduction zone, and the hob will detect their presence and size and deliver even, consistent and effi cient heating where it’s needed.

Neff ’s innovative design of four specially shaped coils, which may be activated independently or in combination, ensures both that power is not wasted by activating unneeded coils, and that small pans on the edge of the zone are not “ignored” by the hob.

01908 328352 www.neff .co.uk

NEFF_4c_ohneClaim_08.eps, 100m, 63y 29k

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED36

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N TTHE GOURMET QUARTER

Trend-setting ‘mini cookers’ from Baumatic

Baumatic has launched a new series of coloured retro-style mini cookers in a choice of gas or electric fuel. A cooker without the

“range”, the space-saving, all-in-one cook centres are designed to fi t into a compact 50cm-wide slot.

� e double-A rated BCE520 electric model has two substantially sized cavities – one housing a 26.5-litre gross capacity grill and the other a 54-litre gross capacity conventional oven. It also features an LED minute minder and a four-plate electric hob.

� e BCG520 gas model also provides two generously sized cavities – one with a 26.5-litre gross capacity gas grill and the other a 54-litre gross capacity oven. � e four-burner gas hob includes a rapid burner, and the appliance is super safe, incorporating a fl ame failure safety device on each burner as well as double-glazed oven doors to lock in the heat. Both the BCE520 and BCG520

are available in a choice of red, black or silver fi nishes, providing a striking, standout feature for any kitchen, and come with a number of practical accessories.

Inject Colour into Any Kitchen with Stoves Colour Boutique

The 90cm dual fuel Stoves Richmond 900DFT in ‘First Bloom’ is part of Colour Boutique, a new colour concept from leading appliance brands Stoves and Belling which gives consumers the

opportunity to choose from 12 inspiring colours across some of the brands’ most popular range cookers. Colour Boutique can be applied to all size and fuel variants of the Stoves Richmond and Belling

Classic range cookers, off ering a total of 180 personalised colour/cooker combinations, which is believed to be the biggest colour off ering in the market.

Combining four seasonal trends – Fresh Spring, Summer Splash, Autumn Chic and Urban Winter – Colour Boutique off ers three fashion-led colours from each of the four seasons. � e themes off er a mix of dazzling bright colours, such as First Bloom, Rolling Countryside and Floral Burst to softer colours

such as Day’s Break (a pastel blue shade) and Wild Berry (a deep purple).

For more information telephone: 0844 815 3735 or visit: www.stoves.co.uk/boutique

De’Longhi PrimaDonna S DeLuxe coffee machine

De’Longhi, the expert in domestic coff ee machines, introduces the new

PrimaDonna S DeLuxe – the most compact and feature-rich bean-to-cup coff ee machine to date.

� is chic appliance not only froths and heats the milk in its patented milk carafe, but also comes with a nozzle feature that allows users to froth their own. Its ‘My Coff ee’ memory function provides the facility to store the exact temperature and quantity of ingredients for users’ perfect cappuccino, and the machine will perform an automatic cleaning cycle at the touch of a button.

Boasting an easy-to-read, slanted display with metallic touch-screen buttons, the PrimaDonna S DeLuxe has a compact footprint and sleek, miniature design. RRP: £1,095

www.delonghi.co.ukColour and style from New World’s ‘Colours’ Collection of built-in products

The New World NW901DO is a 90cm built-in double oven, shown here in metallic purple.

� e Energy Saving Trust recommended appliance is part of Colours, New World’s latest collection of built-in ovens.

Available across a choice of sizes and fuel types, the Colours collection features a range of single and double built-in ovens which contrast black glass with a brightly coloured trim in metallic purple, blue, green or red, and for those looking for something extra special, an ultra-shiny chrome fi nish. � e newly designed ovens are also available with the more traditional fi nishes of white, black and stainless steel.

For more information telephone: 0844 815 3735 or visit: www.newworldappliances.co.uk

37MARCH/APRIL 2012 GET CONNECTED

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N T THE GOURMET QUARTER

Inject Colour into Any Kitchen with Stoves Colour Boutique

The 90cm dual fuel Stoves Richmond 900DFT in ‘First Bloom’ is part of Colour Boutique, a new colour concept from leading appliance brands Stoves and Belling which gives consumers the

opportunity to choose from 12 inspiring colours across some of the brands’ most popular range cookers. Colour Boutique can be applied to all size and fuel variants of the Stoves Richmond and Belling

Classic range cookers, off ering a total of 180 personalised colour/cooker combinations, which is believed to be the biggest colour off ering in the market.

Combining four seasonal trends – Fresh Spring, Summer Splash, Autumn Chic and Urban Winter – Colour Boutique off ers three fashion-led colours from each of the four seasons. � e themes off er a mix of dazzling bright colours, such as First Bloom, Rolling Countryside and Floral Burst to softer colours

such as Day’s Break (a pastel blue shade) and Wild Berry (a deep purple).

For more information telephone: 0844 815 3735 or visit: www.stoves.co.uk/boutique

Zanussi’s new induction hob boils and cooks faster

The ZEI6640XBA induction hob is part of the stunning new Zanussi QUADRO® built-in range. Design features include smooth, wipe-clean black ceramic surfaces, brushed stainless steel frame and

electronic touch-sensitive controls with 9-level power display.� is new 60-cm, four-zone induction hob will cook very quickly as it

heats up the bottom of the pan instantly using magnetic power, rather than radiant heat via the glass cooking surface as traditional ceramic hobs do. Highlights of this new model include a booster function and a Set & Go timer.

Trade contact details: 08445 610561www.zanussi.co.uk

De Dietrich ‘Piano’ hob: the future of induction

De Dietrich’s ‘Piano’ is the world’s most advanced and versatile zoneless induction hob.

� e 93cm appliance challenges all previous induction concepts, with full zoneless cooking for up to fi ve pans, and brings the functionality of the professional cooktop to the domestic kitchen.

Off ering the ultimate in cooking freedom, Piano features an intuitive interface on a full-colour TFT screen, making it very simple to use. Time and temperature can be individually adjusted using a touch-sensitive slide control.

� e beauty of the De Dietrich Piano is that it enables the user to experience true zoneless cooking and features Automatic Pan Detection across the entire cooking area. � e hob has been developed and designed to function using three simply defi ned cooking modes: Expert, Piano and Solo, and its Power Tracker is so advanced that, if a pan is lifted away from the surface and re-sited anywhere on the cooking area, the required temperature will remain constant.

01256 308 067 www.dedietrich.co.uk

Neff FlexInduction: maximum flexibility with minimum effort

FlexInduction hobs have one or two elongated induction zones, which create a total cooking area each of 380mm x 200mm, providing consistent heat across the whole of this surface and

accommodating the placing of one very large pan, or any combination of large, medium and small pans, anywhere on this area.

Sophisticated pan detection technology identifi es the size and positioning of each pan, and activates the right combination of specially designed independent coils to achieve the most effi cient cooking. � e technology is sophisticated, but the benefi t is simple and immediate: any pan, or combination of pans, of any size, can be placed on the big FlexInduction zone, and the hob will detect their presence and size and deliver even, consistent and effi cient heating where it’s needed.

Neff ’s innovative design of four specially shaped coils, which may be activated independently or in combination, ensures both that power is not wasted by activating unneeded coils, and that small pans on the edge of the zone are not “ignored” by the hob.

01908 328352 www.neff .co.uk

NEFF_4c_ohneClaim_08.eps, 100m, 63y 29k

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N TFREESTANDING COOKING

F reestanding cooking is traditionally seen as the basic, unglamorous, hardworking, bread-and-butter relation

that quietly plods on, steadily racking up sales to its traditional customer base, while its more stylish, innovative cousin, built-in, draws most of the attention because it’s there that new technology and new design fi rst makes its appearance.

That is still true, to an extent, and manufacturers do seem, historically, to invest more in getting the market and the consumer excited about their built-in ranges than in promoting freestanding appliances. However, freestanding cooking is still outselling built-in, and the household-name manufacturers who established their market reputations in the UK based on their freestanding appliances, at a time when built-in was a comparatively exclusive and expensive rarity, are still keen to keep a strong and developing presence in this sector, alongside whatever they may be doing in built-in. Visit the trade showrooms of any of these manufacturers and you’ll see a good selection of 50cm and 60cm freestanding models on display. That’s because they, and their retail and distribution partners, know that it’s a market with plenty of scope, a reliable replacement potential and reasonable ongoing volume expectations. (This is before we even consider the game-changing presence of the mighty Range Cooker, of which more later.)

Standing on meritIt may be true that freestanding cooking almost always has to wait a little longer for the technological innovations that fi rst appear in built-in collections, but it’s equally true that what permeates through to freestanding appliances has proven itself, stood the test of consumer approval, gained the understanding and acceptance of the buying public, and hits the ground running from a retail viewpoint. That’s valuable confi dence for retailers who need to make every inch of shopfl oor earn its keep.

Remember Belling, one of the cooking industry’s iconic brands, bringing the FSE601 cooker –the fi rst freestanding cooker with an induction hob – to the UK market? It was a signifi cant “fi rst”, because it marked a big step forward for induction, following a long, gradual process of consumer education and acceptance that had been going on for years in the built-in arena. Induction – probably the most important technological advance in hob cooking for many decades – made the transition from an impressive but premium-priced innovation that needed a great deal of explanation and demonstration, to a more accessible, more democratic presence in the mainstream cooking market. There will soon be few major cooking brands that do not feature

This time last year, we noted that the UK economy had suffered another “annus horribilis”, with all the concomitant restraints on household disposable incomes, a very sluggish housing market, and added pressure on both independent and multiple retail outlets. These are all factors that have a direct impact upon major kitchen appliances, and as, looking back over another year, economic conditions have if anything worsened through 2011, there’s been no let-up in the dif� culties facing the UK cooking market. How is freestanding facing up to the pressure?

“It’s a market with plenty of scope, a reliable replacement potential and reasonable ongoing volume expectations”

AEG’S MAXIKLASSE FREESTANDING OVEN

38

The new Range Cooker colour collection is now ready.

For more information call 0845 600 4516 or visit www.leisurecp.co.uk

Red Range 100 Double Oven CMT105FRRP

For an exclusive preview of our new range,visit us at the CIH Tradeshow 22-23 April 2012.

Come and try them for yourself at stand 530.

BEK0174_CiHTradeShowAdBLeisure_AW3.indd 1 23/03/2012 09:44

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N TFREESTANDING COOKING

F reestanding cooking is traditionally seen as the basic, unglamorous, hardworking, bread-and-butter relation

that quietly plods on, steadily racking up sales to its traditional customer base, while its more stylish, innovative cousin, built-in, draws most of the attention because it’s there that new technology and new design fi rst makes its appearance.

That is still true, to an extent, and manufacturers do seem, historically, to invest more in getting the market and the consumer excited about their built-in ranges than in promoting freestanding appliances. However, freestanding cooking is still outselling built-in, and the household-name manufacturers who established their market reputations in the UK based on their freestanding appliances, at a time when built-in was a comparatively exclusive and expensive rarity, are still keen to keep a strong and developing presence in this sector, alongside whatever they may be doing in built-in. Visit the trade showrooms of any of these manufacturers and you’ll see a good selection of 50cm and 60cm freestanding models on display. That’s because they, and their retail and distribution partners, know that it’s a market with plenty of scope, a reliable replacement potential and reasonable ongoing volume expectations. (This is before we even consider the game-changing presence of the mighty Range Cooker, of which more later.)

Standing on meritIt may be true that freestanding cooking almost always has to wait a little longer for the technological innovations that fi rst appear in built-in collections, but it’s equally true that what permeates through to freestanding appliances has proven itself, stood the test of consumer approval, gained the understanding and acceptance of the buying public, and hits the ground running from a retail viewpoint. That’s valuable confi dence for retailers who need to make every inch of shopfl oor earn its keep.

Remember Belling, one of the cooking industry’s iconic brands, bringing the FSE601 cooker –the fi rst freestanding cooker with an induction hob – to the UK market? It was a signifi cant “fi rst”, because it marked a big step forward for induction, following a long, gradual process of consumer education and acceptance that had been going on for years in the built-in arena. Induction – probably the most important technological advance in hob cooking for many decades – made the transition from an impressive but premium-priced innovation that needed a great deal of explanation and demonstration, to a more accessible, more democratic presence in the mainstream cooking market. There will soon be few major cooking brands that do not feature

This time last year, we noted that the UK economy had suffered another “annus horribilis”, with all the concomitant restraints on household disposable incomes, a very sluggish housing market, and added pressure on both independent and multiple retail outlets. These are all factors that have a direct impact upon major kitchen appliances, and as, looking back over another year, economic conditions have if anything worsened through 2011, there’s been no let-up in the dif� culties facing the UK cooking market. How is freestanding facing up to the pressure?

“It’s a market with plenty of scope, a reliable replacement potential and reasonable ongoing volume expectations”

AEG’S MAXIKLASSE FREESTANDING OVEN

38

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED40

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N T

induction as an option in their freestanding ranges, at prices that bring it within the reach of many more consumers. That’s not to say that induction no longer needs careful explanation and – where possible – demonstration at point of sale. In fact, manufacturers and retailers agree that it’s still vital. But the opportunity to spread the induction word to a much broader audience, working with a much broader range of price points, means that the technology is gaining understanding and critical mass at a much faster rate. Retailers still need to know their products, but there are more occasions on which taking the time to impart that knowledge will lead to a sale. As Indesit advertising and communications manager Libby Morley asserts: “as consumers become more aware of the technology, the price will come down. And it’s only a matter of time before the induction technology seen on built-in appliances comes to freestanding in a big way – but it must be matched to the right products.”

Refi nements adding valueIt’s also encouraging to see that further refi nements – both technological and aesthetic - are being included in freestanding cookers. AEG’s MaxiKlasse freestanding cookers range – part of the AEG Neue Kollektion – has at its top end a model equipped with a MaxiSense induction

hob, off ering the convenience and versatility of the “fl exible zones” induction concept that has been developed in various systems by the major manufacturers and is now a standard feature of higher-end induction ranges.

The MaxiKlasse also represents the movement in freestanding towards providing more of the technological benefi ts fi rst seen in built-in: multifunction cooking, larger capacities in a standard footprint, A and AA energy ratings, programmable timers. And the sophistication of “intelligent” cooking systems is becoming a more regular feature of freestanding appliances. For example, when Hotpoint introduced its “Ultima” freestanding range it included the Intelligent Cooking System that recommends optimum temperature, cooking time and shelf position, plus the “One Touch” automatic programming and “Smart Chef” functions that take charge of ensuring perfect results for breads, cakes, roast meats and fi sh. This level of effi ciency and sophistication may be undreamed of by many devotees of standalone appliances, who, coming back into the market for a replacement to an existing product after a number of years, are likely to be pleasantly surprised at how much they can now get for their money. As Smeg’s Joan Fraser predicted last year, the “dream feature” – pyrolytic cleaning

– that eliminates entirely the most hated kitchen chore of cleaning the oven, is a growth area in freestanding. Smeg said then that pyrolytic cleaning would become available on all of the brand’s freestanding appliances.

Appliances of our timeAs well as its increasing sophistication and added value, the freestanding sector has a great deal going for it in times such as these. As New World’s commercial manager Jon Brennan commented in 2011, freestanding cooking appliances are generally less expensive than built-in, which is an important consideration for consumers worried about dwindling disposable income. They are also a simpler initial installation proposition, and are easier to change in the future. Very appealing for householders who are opting to stay put in a stagnant housing market and want to update their kitchens with a new cooker that will improve their quality of life – and the look of the “heart of the home” - without the expense of a total refi t.

But the trump card held by the freestanding cooking sector has been – and remains – the Range Cooker. It’s a versatile, aspirational appliance that combines the ability to make a real style statement in both traditional and contemporary kitchens with a high level of performance. If anything over 70cm width can be described as a range cooker, it’s also got the advantage of a wide choice of sizes up to 120cm that can either blend into its surroundings or stand out as a real “statement” piece, adding interest, style and focus. Established favourite fi nishes such as black and stainless steel have for a long time been available alongside “traditional” creams and pastels, and there has been an increasing trend towards a bright palette of strong colours providing a powerful focus.

CANNON BY HOTPOINT PROFESSIONAL DUAL FUEL 100CM RANGE COOKER

FREESTANDING COOKING

“This level of ef� ciency and sophistication may be undreamed of by many devotees of standalone appliances”

BELLING’S GROUNDBREAKING FIRST FREESTANDING COOKER WITH INDUCTION HOB

41GET CONNECTED

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N T

Ranges of choiceWith so much to choose from in size, design, fi nish, colour and technology options, the range cooker is a versatile star. Steve Macdonald, marketing director at Hoover Candy, acknowledges the diffi culties created by the general economic conditions, and sums up the range cooker’s ability to adapt and overcome: “In the case of range cookers,” he says, “manufacturers have adjusted their off er to try and combat the earlier decline in the [cooking] sector. They have improved both the specifi cation and aesthetics as well as providing a wider choice at attractive prices. Also, contemporary or traditional designed range cookers are available in a variety of colour options and sizes to suit diff erent lifestyles and budgets.

“Range cookers are also increasingly popular because of their impressive size and the functionality and durability they aff ord. Both budding and more accomplished chefs enjoy using range cookers as they allow more options through greater fl exibility with a choice of griddles, hotplates, powerful wok burners, rotisseries…

“Range cookers are at the higher end of the market and where space allows the larger size models around 1200mm wide are very desirable, although smaller 900mm wide more aff ordable appliances for smaller kitchens are also proving popular.”

It’s a ringing tribute to a “traditional” style of cooker that can evoke all the retro chic of a vintage farmhouse setting, but has also reinvented itself in style, technology and colour to be equally at home in the most contemporary 21st century kitchen. Hotpoint’s Iain Starkey asserts that “the trend towards mixing contemporary appliances with traditional country kitchen units continues, so range-style cookers like the Cannon by Hotpoint Professional Dual Fuel stainless steel range cooker, with its clean lines and focal point features, are still a popular and versatile solution.”

Cannon, a longstanding specialist cooking brand, stands alongside other great cooking names such as Leisure (about to reveal its new “colour” range), Stoves, Smeg, Hotpoint, in refi ning and developing the 21st century range cooker to meet a wide spectrum of 21st century needs and aspirations.

As Mark Scott, general manager UK of Steel, says: “The UK has become the largest

market in Europe for range cookers as they have captured the imagination of the consumer, and this is evident in the number of manufacturers we have in the UK. The popularity of range cookers for the last few decades means there is now an up-and-coming replacement market, as once you invest the space in a range cooker you never go back. The range cooker off ers real fl exibility and durability, and

they now feature professional functionality which competes with the built-in market, and modern functionality on a traditional range cooker has really caught the attention of consumers.”

Into 2012The range cooker market, which was once very niche, has attracted “many entry-level and mass-market manufacturers,” who have “extended their product lines to include range cookers in a

variety of sizes to fi t all pockets.“This trend,” concludes Mark

Scott, “will continue, and sizes will be continually refi ned. It is a concept that is proving too successful for manufacturers to ignore; they have adopted the styling and translated this into smaller sizes to meet the needs

of those who don’t have the space for a larger range cooker.”

It appears that, in total, the freestanding cooking market has a strong future across the full spectrum of consumer requirements, from the conservative, budget-conscious buyer through the aspirational, style-conscious homemaker to the “serious” cook and the well heeled cutting-edge consumer looking to make a serious statement. Plenty of customer

variety for retailers to work with.

FREESTANDING COOKING

“The trend towards mixing contemporary appliances with traditional country kitchen units continues”

SMEG’S NEW TR4110P RANGE

COOKER

STEEL GENESI

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED40

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N T

induction as an option in their freestanding ranges, at prices that bring it within the reach of many more consumers. That’s not to say that induction no longer needs careful explanation and – where possible – demonstration at point of sale. In fact, manufacturers and retailers agree that it’s still vital. But the opportunity to spread the induction word to a much broader audience, working with a much broader range of price points, means that the technology is gaining understanding and critical mass at a much faster rate. Retailers still need to know their products, but there are more occasions on which taking the time to impart that knowledge will lead to a sale. As Indesit advertising and communications manager Libby Morley asserts: “as consumers become more aware of the technology, the price will come down. And it’s only a matter of time before the induction technology seen on built-in appliances comes to freestanding in a big way – but it must be matched to the right products.”

Refi nements adding valueIt’s also encouraging to see that further refi nements – both technological and aesthetic - are being included in freestanding cookers. AEG’s MaxiKlasse freestanding cookers range – part of the AEG Neue Kollektion – has at its top end a model equipped with a MaxiSense induction

hob, off ering the convenience and versatility of the “fl exible zones” induction concept that has been developed in various systems by the major manufacturers and is now a standard feature of higher-end induction ranges.

The MaxiKlasse also represents the movement in freestanding towards providing more of the technological benefi ts fi rst seen in built-in: multifunction cooking, larger capacities in a standard footprint, A and AA energy ratings, programmable timers. And the sophistication of “intelligent” cooking systems is becoming a more regular feature of freestanding appliances. For example, when Hotpoint introduced its “Ultima” freestanding range it included the Intelligent Cooking System that recommends optimum temperature, cooking time and shelf position, plus the “One Touch” automatic programming and “Smart Chef” functions that take charge of ensuring perfect results for breads, cakes, roast meats and fi sh. This level of effi ciency and sophistication may be undreamed of by many devotees of standalone appliances, who, coming back into the market for a replacement to an existing product after a number of years, are likely to be pleasantly surprised at how much they can now get for their money. As Smeg’s Joan Fraser predicted last year, the “dream feature” – pyrolytic cleaning

– that eliminates entirely the most hated kitchen chore of cleaning the oven, is a growth area in freestanding. Smeg said then that pyrolytic cleaning would become available on all of the brand’s freestanding appliances.

Appliances of our timeAs well as its increasing sophistication and added value, the freestanding sector has a great deal going for it in times such as these. As New World’s commercial manager Jon Brennan commented in 2011, freestanding cooking appliances are generally less expensive than built-in, which is an important consideration for consumers worried about dwindling disposable income. They are also a simpler initial installation proposition, and are easier to change in the future. Very appealing for householders who are opting to stay put in a stagnant housing market and want to update their kitchens with a new cooker that will improve their quality of life – and the look of the “heart of the home” - without the expense of a total refi t.

But the trump card held by the freestanding cooking sector has been – and remains – the Range Cooker. It’s a versatile, aspirational appliance that combines the ability to make a real style statement in both traditional and contemporary kitchens with a high level of performance. If anything over 70cm width can be described as a range cooker, it’s also got the advantage of a wide choice of sizes up to 120cm that can either blend into its surroundings or stand out as a real “statement” piece, adding interest, style and focus. Established favourite fi nishes such as black and stainless steel have for a long time been available alongside “traditional” creams and pastels, and there has been an increasing trend towards a bright palette of strong colours providing a powerful focus.

CANNON BY HOTPOINT PROFESSIONAL DUAL FUEL 100CM RANGE COOKER

FREESTANDING COOKING

“This level of ef� ciency and sophistication may be undreamed of by many devotees of standalone appliances”

BELLING’S GROUNDBREAKING FIRST FREESTANDING COOKER WITH INDUCTION HOB

41GET CONNECTED

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N T

Ranges of choiceWith so much to choose from in size, design, fi nish, colour and technology options, the range cooker is a versatile star. Steve Macdonald, marketing director at Hoover Candy, acknowledges the diffi culties created by the general economic conditions, and sums up the range cooker’s ability to adapt and overcome: “In the case of range cookers,” he says, “manufacturers have adjusted their off er to try and combat the earlier decline in the [cooking] sector. They have improved both the specifi cation and aesthetics as well as providing a wider choice at attractive prices. Also, contemporary or traditional designed range cookers are available in a variety of colour options and sizes to suit diff erent lifestyles and budgets.

“Range cookers are also increasingly popular because of their impressive size and the functionality and durability they aff ord. Both budding and more accomplished chefs enjoy using range cookers as they allow more options through greater fl exibility with a choice of griddles, hotplates, powerful wok burners, rotisseries…

“Range cookers are at the higher end of the market and where space allows the larger size models around 1200mm wide are very desirable, although smaller 900mm wide more aff ordable appliances for smaller kitchens are also proving popular.”

It’s a ringing tribute to a “traditional” style of cooker that can evoke all the retro chic of a vintage farmhouse setting, but has also reinvented itself in style, technology and colour to be equally at home in the most contemporary 21st century kitchen. Hotpoint’s Iain Starkey asserts that “the trend towards mixing contemporary appliances with traditional country kitchen units continues, so range-style cookers like the Cannon by Hotpoint Professional Dual Fuel stainless steel range cooker, with its clean lines and focal point features, are still a popular and versatile solution.”

Cannon, a longstanding specialist cooking brand, stands alongside other great cooking names such as Leisure (about to reveal its new “colour” range), Stoves, Smeg, Hotpoint, in refi ning and developing the 21st century range cooker to meet a wide spectrum of 21st century needs and aspirations.

As Mark Scott, general manager UK of Steel, says: “The UK has become the largest

market in Europe for range cookers as they have captured the imagination of the consumer, and this is evident in the number of manufacturers we have in the UK. The popularity of range cookers for the last few decades means there is now an up-and-coming replacement market, as once you invest the space in a range cooker you never go back. The range cooker off ers real fl exibility and durability, and

they now feature professional functionality which competes with the built-in market, and modern functionality on a traditional range cooker has really caught the attention of consumers.”

Into 2012The range cooker market, which was once very niche, has attracted “many entry-level and mass-market manufacturers,” who have “extended their product lines to include range cookers in a

variety of sizes to fi t all pockets.“This trend,” concludes Mark

Scott, “will continue, and sizes will be continually refi ned. It is a concept that is proving too successful for manufacturers to ignore; they have adopted the styling and translated this into smaller sizes to meet the needs

of those who don’t have the space for a larger range cooker.”

It appears that, in total, the freestanding cooking market has a strong future across the full spectrum of consumer requirements, from the conservative, budget-conscious buyer through the aspirational, style-conscious homemaker to the “serious” cook and the well heeled cutting-edge consumer looking to make a serious statement. Plenty of customer

variety for retailers to work with.

FREESTANDING COOKING

“The trend towards mixing contemporary appliances with traditional country kitchen units continues”

SMEG’S NEW TR4110P RANGE

COOKER

STEEL GENESI

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED42

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N TCOFFEE MACHINES

The so-called “café culture” which swept Britain in the last decade succeeded in putting the nation on the coffee-lovers’ map. No longer do we trail behind our continental cousins in our appreciation of taste and quality; in fact, some UK citizens would claim to be coffee “experts”, or “connoisseurs”, giving the drink the same deliberation and status as a � ne wine….

be measured by the number of brands in the marketplace. “With the kitchen and living areas merging into one,” she says, “built-in machines de-clutter the worktop and are excellent ‘crossover’ appliances, travelling well between the two rooms or, of course, ideal for the dining

room, study or bedroom. They add value to the consumer’s home

and to the retailer’s sale, providing a unique opportunity to sell an add-on appliance.”

Miele’s Pooley also remarks on the trend for built-in machines, which he says “are increasingly being included

in consumers’ kitchen planning.” But he acknowledges that not everyone has enough built-in space for such products, and says that both versions [built-in and freestanding] “create a signifi cant lifestyle statement.”

At the end of 2011, Miele introduced the CM5200 Barista bean-to-cup freestanding model, which makes up to two cups of coff ee at the touch of a button using a new automatic milk-heating and frothing feature.

While the general trend in built-in machines tends to be streamlined and contemporary; in freestanding, products mostly lean towards contemporary or retro in their design, as can be seen in those from Italian brand De’Longhi, which boasts a wide range of products, from the retro-styled Icona models, to the chic, PrimaDonna collection.

Colour is another common feature of the freestanding market. Take, for example, Krups’ Dolce Gusto ‘Piccolo’; Kenwood’s kMix Boutique fi lter coff ee maker; and, again, the De’Longhi Icona range.

That the coff ee machine market should continue to grow reaps a unanimous, positive vote. Products have the elements of being, for some, essential, for the majority, aspirational. So perhaps it could be suggested, then, that retailers should look at the sale of such appliances not simply as the sale of a product, but of a ‘lifestyle’.

And it all started with the spread of coff ee bars such as Starbucks, Costa Coff ee and Caff é Nero, which have

become high street destinations that provide a relaxed environment for socializing – “a welcome sanctuary for those with busy, hectic lives,” as described by Smeg Product and Training Manager Joan Fraser. Or, as Neil Pooley, Kitchen Category Manager at Miele, remarks: for those who want a “quick coff ee” on the commute to work. “Coff ee has become a huge part of the everyday lifestyle in Britain, and great tasting drinks can be bought on every high street corner,” he says. “This has created a market for bean-to-cup coff ee machines in the home, rather than the traditional fi lter coff ee that once suffi ced.”

The popularity of coff ee machines has for years given the small domestic appliance sector (worth £2.4 billion in 2011, according to GfK data) a substantial lift. The health of the category continues to be boosted by innovative design, top-end machines with automatic functions, memory options and easier cleaning and de-

scaling. But the greatest feature of this market is consumers’ demand for creating the “coff ee experience” at home, whether that entails a “quick shot” in the morning, a relaxing midday cappuccino or latte, or impressing dinner guests with knowledge of the range of speciality coff ee drinks that can now be made in the comfort of the home. As Simona Bara, Product Marketing Manager for Built-in at Whirlpool says: “Coff ee is having its moment.”

Bara adds that there has been tremendous growth in coff ee consumption, and it will continue to rise. “This is a very positive market sector,” she says. “And entertaining at home has meant having the ‘right’ appliances on show and in focus to add the ‘wow’ factor to the kitchen.”

Chetana Raj, Product Manager at Groupe SEB UK, agrees. She says that design and ergonomics are “key market drivers,” and Groupe SEB’s Krups brand has products that meet “every need,” whether consumers are looking for the convenience of a pod system or want an authentic tasting espresso, created by grinding their own beans. She also believes that, unlike many other SDA areas, the coff ee machine sector will not polarize. “Rather, as the coff ee culture continues to grow in the UK, consumers will be willing to pay more for good quality, well designed machines that provide them with great tasting coff ee.”

Built-in or freestanding?Whirlpool’s Bara is keen to note that “manufacturers have sunk generous investment into the development of the coff ee machine, both freestanding and built-in. Products are designed to suit the most sophisticated coff ee enthusiasts, with attention to detail via exact bar pressure to ensure the ‘crema’ is perfect, the water temperature exact, and precision bean grinding delivering a full fl avour.”

Bara also comments on the trend towards built-in units, the signifi cance of which can

Wake up and smell the coffee…

STYLE AND SUBSTANCE FROM THE DE’LONGHI

PRIMADONNA COLLECTION

KENWOOD COFFEE MAKER FROM THE KMIX BOUTIQUE BREAKFAST COLLECTION

THE STREAMLINED AND CONTEMPORARYSTYLED AEG

BUILTIN COFFEE MACHINE

New thinking • Appliances with curve appeal

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

The NewStyle oven range is a pleasure to use – from the smooth feel of the door mechanism and the curve of the handle to the ergonomically designed controls. The top of the range NewStyle single oven SH103CX features touch controls and 10 cooking programmes including Hotpoint’s Intelligent Cooking System.

NewStyle hobs co-ordinate effortlessly with the style of the ovens and come in a range of 75cm or 60cm widths.

12110 Newstyle Ad.indd 1 26/3/12 15:15:55

MARCH/APRIL 2012GET CONNECTED42

G C M C O O K I N G S U P P L E M E N TCOFFEE MACHINES

The so-called “café culture” which swept Britain in the last decade succeeded in putting the nation on the coffee-lovers’ map. No longer do we trail behind our continental cousins in our appreciation of taste and quality; in fact, some UK citizens would claim to be coffee “experts”, or “connoisseurs”, giving the drink the same deliberation and status as a � ne wine….

be measured by the number of brands in the marketplace. “With the kitchen and living areas merging into one,” she says, “built-in machines de-clutter the worktop and are excellent ‘crossover’ appliances, travelling well between the two rooms or, of course, ideal for the dining

room, study or bedroom. They add value to the consumer’s home

and to the retailer’s sale, providing a unique opportunity to sell an add-on appliance.”

Miele’s Pooley also remarks on the trend for built-in machines, which he says “are increasingly being included

in consumers’ kitchen planning.” But he acknowledges that not everyone has enough built-in space for such products, and says that both versions [built-in and freestanding] “create a signifi cant lifestyle statement.”

At the end of 2011, Miele introduced the CM5200 Barista bean-to-cup freestanding model, which makes up to two cups of coff ee at the touch of a button using a new automatic milk-heating and frothing feature.

While the general trend in built-in machines tends to be streamlined and contemporary; in freestanding, products mostly lean towards contemporary or retro in their design, as can be seen in those from Italian brand De’Longhi, which boasts a wide range of products, from the retro-styled Icona models, to the chic, PrimaDonna collection.

Colour is another common feature of the freestanding market. Take, for example, Krups’ Dolce Gusto ‘Piccolo’; Kenwood’s kMix Boutique fi lter coff ee maker; and, again, the De’Longhi Icona range.

That the coff ee machine market should continue to grow reaps a unanimous, positive vote. Products have the elements of being, for some, essential, for the majority, aspirational. So perhaps it could be suggested, then, that retailers should look at the sale of such appliances not simply as the sale of a product, but of a ‘lifestyle’.

And it all started with the spread of coff ee bars such as Starbucks, Costa Coff ee and Caff é Nero, which have

become high street destinations that provide a relaxed environment for socializing – “a welcome sanctuary for those with busy, hectic lives,” as described by Smeg Product and Training Manager Joan Fraser. Or, as Neil Pooley, Kitchen Category Manager at Miele, remarks: for those who want a “quick coff ee” on the commute to work. “Coff ee has become a huge part of the everyday lifestyle in Britain, and great tasting drinks can be bought on every high street corner,” he says. “This has created a market for bean-to-cup coff ee machines in the home, rather than the traditional fi lter coff ee that once suffi ced.”

The popularity of coff ee machines has for years given the small domestic appliance sector (worth £2.4 billion in 2011, according to GfK data) a substantial lift. The health of the category continues to be boosted by innovative design, top-end machines with automatic functions, memory options and easier cleaning and de-

scaling. But the greatest feature of this market is consumers’ demand for creating the “coff ee experience” at home, whether that entails a “quick shot” in the morning, a relaxing midday cappuccino or latte, or impressing dinner guests with knowledge of the range of speciality coff ee drinks that can now be made in the comfort of the home. As Simona Bara, Product Marketing Manager for Built-in at Whirlpool says: “Coff ee is having its moment.”

Bara adds that there has been tremendous growth in coff ee consumption, and it will continue to rise. “This is a very positive market sector,” she says. “And entertaining at home has meant having the ‘right’ appliances on show and in focus to add the ‘wow’ factor to the kitchen.”

Chetana Raj, Product Manager at Groupe SEB UK, agrees. She says that design and ergonomics are “key market drivers,” and Groupe SEB’s Krups brand has products that meet “every need,” whether consumers are looking for the convenience of a pod system or want an authentic tasting espresso, created by grinding their own beans. She also believes that, unlike many other SDA areas, the coff ee machine sector will not polarize. “Rather, as the coff ee culture continues to grow in the UK, consumers will be willing to pay more for good quality, well designed machines that provide them with great tasting coff ee.”

Built-in or freestanding?Whirlpool’s Bara is keen to note that “manufacturers have sunk generous investment into the development of the coff ee machine, both freestanding and built-in. Products are designed to suit the most sophisticated coff ee enthusiasts, with attention to detail via exact bar pressure to ensure the ‘crema’ is perfect, the water temperature exact, and precision bean grinding delivering a full fl avour.”

Bara also comments on the trend towards built-in units, the signifi cance of which can

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REFRIGERATIONWaste not, want not. Frugality and freshness is the new cool as escalating food prices and the interest in healthy eating demand better food management

FROM THE BENCHAlan Bennett looks at the future of TV display

GEORGE COLE GETS CONNECTED3-D TV, digital imaging and safe storage

INTEGRAL COOKING SUPPLEMENTFood Preparation: The new generation of food prep products

Built-In Appliances: Where style and function is headed

Freestanding Appliances: Breadth of choice and versatility

Coff ee Machines: Sophisticated tastes

w w w. g c m a g a z i n e . c o . u kM A R C H / A P R I L 2 0 1 2