feature: connected appliances Satdnfisrt


For Nick Platt, time saving apps will become


ever more important. “Over the last few months we have seen a surge of new technology when it comes to kitchen appliances. Connected appliance and voice assist are gaining momentum, and we have gone a step further with the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into our AXI range. “In a world where people are pressed for


time, products which offer more control and frees up users to do other jobs is a welcome addition, with voice technology being at the heart of this. As a time-saving function, voice technology makes using the product easier, while AI helps to reduce food waste and the associated cost benefits.” Neil Pooley, category manager for kitchens


at Miele GB, believes gimmick-free applications are the way forward. “Our new Generation 7000 series of appliances took six years to develop with the focus of the research based around global kitchen design trends and technologies that would most benefit consumers. Two hundred test homes trialled the new appliances to help determine the features that were included in the final appliances. Offering a fresh look, the new appliances are available in four updated design lines that allow for flexible and perfectly coordinated kitchens. A simple, beautifully designed and cohesive touch interface was of paramount importance, ensuring customers can use the new appliances intuitively, whether it is a coffee machine or steam oven, as well as seamlessly moving


July / August 2019


from one appliance to another. User prompts, automatic programmes and smart innovations help make the range easy to live with and offer real benefits rather than gimmicks." Lucy Dunstan, Product Manager at Smeg UK, explains how the fact that many of us are rolling out smart technology throughout our homes is driving sales. “A key growing trend within the home appliance market that is driving sales is smart home integration. We are currently working to roll out Smeg connect across our portfolio of built-in appliances. Many of our built-in products work with SmegConnect. This smart app allows customers to connect their Smeg appliances and control them via a smartphone or tablet. For example, if you want your wine to be chilled when you get home after a long day at work, you can control the temperature of your wine cooler from the app and coming home to a perfectly chilled beverage!” So with the future seemingly heading


towards at a dizzying pace, what is the outlook for the market? Nick Platt sees the ubiquity of apps as a key factor. “While features such as voice activation and even artificial intelligence are already impacting the market, we expect the progression of these features to continue being a leading factor for the sector and will help to drive sales. For example, as more people become familiar with connected products, the more they will get used to controlling that aspect of their lives from an app on their phone. Whether it’s controlling heating, lighting or even keeping track of sleep patterns and


practising mindfulness each day – people are getting used to having an app for everything. There’s no reason appliance control shouldn’t be the same.” For retailers to make the most of this trend,


Keval Shah recommends that all staff have a thorough understanding of the smart home concept. “It’s important to train up staff on the smart home proposition to ensure they fully understand all the features and benefits of each appliance, and how they work with the apps in order to be able to give customers a thorough, informed demonstration. With smart technology being relatively new to market, having an expert on-hand to explain the technology and its real- life benefits helps convert store visits into sales. Consider setting up bespoke training sessions for staff interested in knowing more, for example at your own show room where everything is set-up and ready. Once retailers have bought into the concept, provide the relevant support to help them make space in-store for an impressive smart home display which can capture a customer’s imagination. “One of the best reasons you can give a


customer to invest in connected technology, is that they’ll be future-proofing their appliances. With technology advancing at a rapid pace, the ability to download the latest software and new programmes means your appliance will always feel ‘new’. As appliances are bought infrequently, it makes sense to invest in the technology now so that you don’t miss out on important updates in the next few years.”


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