NEWS | Round-up VIEWPOINT Fostering sustainability


with smart devices Tom Reynolds, CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, details the rise of the smart bathroom and how it links to new regulations


Major appliance merger raises competition concern


THE COMPETITION and Markets Authority (CMA) has ‘concerns’ that Arçelik’s proposed purchase of Whirlpool Corporation


could massively reduce


consumer choice in the large domestic appliances market.


HOMEOWNERS IN the UK are increasingly looking to infuse their living spaces with smart technology, transforming their houses into hubs of convenience, efficiency, and sustainability. The bathroom, often considered a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation, is no stranger to this tech revolution. When it comes to the connected bathroom, the possibilities are endless. Homeowners can now integrate various devices into their bathroom spaces, enhancing convenience


and sustainability. Smart


mirrors equipped with apps, customisable lighting, and even smart showers are becoming increasingly popular. One standout feature of these smart showers is the ability for each household member to create a personalised profile. This allows them to enjoy their perfect bathroom experience, adjusting water temperature and pressure with the touch of a button or the sound of their voice.


Smart toilets, too, have joined the connected Embracing


connected apps and devices in the bathroom can save water, enhance the consumer


bathroom revolution. Through smartphone apps, consumers can monitor their weekly water usage, helping to promote greater awareness of water con - servation.


experience and contribute to a more sustainable future


While the benefits of connected devices in the bathroom are undeniable, security should be at the forefront. Smart homes could be exposed to more than 12,000 hacking attacks every single week, according to a Which? investigation from 2021. With around nine internet- connected devices in the home, the risk is real.


In the UK, draft regulations are set to take effect on


April 29, 2024, which impose stringent security requirements on manufacturers, importers, and distributors of connected products. Manufacturers will be obligated to ensure that default passwords for their products are either user-defined or unique per device. Manufacturers will need to provide a statement of compliance with security requirements. Manufacturers and retailers unaware of these impending regulations should consider their responsibilities and prepare for these changes. The safety and security of consumers should always be a top priority and these regulations are a significant step in that direction. BMA members are committed to ensuring that these


new regulations are adhered to, guaranteeing the highest standards of consumer safety and security. As we move forward into this exciting era of connected living, we must work together to make our bathrooms smarter, more efficient, and safer than ever.


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Arçelik is the European parent company of appliance brands such as Beko and Grundig, while


Whirlpool houses brands such as


Hotpoint, Indesit and InSinkErator. Arçelik agreed to acquire Whirlpool’s EMEA Major Domestic Appliances Business earlier this year, with Arçelik agreeing to set up a new standalone business: Beko Europe BV. However, the CMA believes that Beko Europe BV will become the largest individual supplier of washing machines, tumble-dryers, dishwashers and cooking appliances, with an estimated UK market worth of over £3.8 billion. CMA senior director of mergers Sorcha O’Carroll said: “The proposed deal will combine two major providers of home appliances in the UK, meaning that well-known brands such as Hotpoint, Indesit and Beko will


sit under one


owner. We’re worried that this could reduce the choice of suppliers available to retailers and ultimately to shoppers.


“As competition from other suppliers in the price range appears to be limited, we are concerned that this tie-up could leave people paying more or receiving lower-quality products. Unless Arçelik addresses our concerns, we’ll move to an in-depth investigation.” In its assessment, the CMA said that Arçelik and Whirlpool are particularly strong in the low to mid-range appliance market, so the new entity would only face competition from a very small group of other businesses.


A spokesperson for Arçelik said the company is in “close and constructive collaboration” with the CMA. A similar statement from Whirlpool said that the merger will bring “significant benefits for customers and consumers, We believe the CMA should reach the same conclusion following its review.”


The involved parties had until October 5 to


offer the CMA an undertaking that appropriately addresses the concerns.


Caesarstone names new managing director for UK and Ireland


QUARTZ AND porcelain surface specialist Caesarstone has appointed a new managing director for the UK and RoI.


Edward Smith will be stepping into the role, following a career of over 30 years spent in the construction sector.


Smith joins Caesarstone fresh from a role as operational transformation director at building material supplier Stark UK. Prior to this, he held senior appointments at Saint-Gobain and Jewson, and was also the former managing director of George Boyd.


According to Caesarstone, Smith has built himself a considerable reputation for strong relationship building and the ability to foster high team performance, making him a good fit for the managing director role.


Smith said: “I’m thrilled to be part of such a respected innovative global brand. I’ve enjoyed watching Caesarstone’s extraordinary growth since it launched in the UK in 2017 and look forward to continuing to invest in and develop the business across the UK and RoI.” He added: “I’m also excited to continue building our relationship with our Irish partners following the launch of our new distribution centre and showroom in Dublin earlier this year. It was a key step in Caesarstone’s expansion to solidify our presence in this important market.” He will be taking over the reins from his predecessor, Amir Reske, who left the company earlier this year after seven years in the role.


• November 2023


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