April 2026 ertonline.co.uk


Russell Hobbs Clean Air Style Air Purifier (RHAP2831B)


Russell Hobbs Bladeless Tower Fan and Heater


Swan Nordic SAC16800GRY 2-in-1 Evaporative Air Cooler


Keeping cool


Matthew Nicholls, Category Manager for Air Treatment at Morphy Richards, highlights a broad and evolving portfolio of cooling solutions designed to meet a wide range of consumer needs. “We offer a comprehensive range of air treatment and cooling solutions,” he explains, “including USB-rechargeable and travel fans, air circulator desk and pedestal fans, tower fans, air coolers and full air conditioning units.” Heading into the summer season, portability-


led products are proving particularly popular. “We are seeing strong performance from our USB-rechargeable fans and battery-powered air circulators,” says Mr Nicholls, “driven by their portability and convenience.” He adds that “travel air coolers and bladeless 2-in-1 cooling fan and air purifier models are also gaining traction,” reflecting a growing consumer appetite for multifunctional, space-saving solutions. In 2026, he notes that consumers are


increasingly drawn to products that combine performance with thoughtful design. “There is a clear focus on stylish, design-led products that integrate seamlessly into the home and can be used all year round, not just seasonally,” he says. Features such as portability and low-noise operation continue to resonate, “allowing products to be used comfortably across both work and relaxation settings,” while intuitive usability and strong aesthetics remain key purchase drivers. Sustainability is also front of mind. “It is a key consideration across all stages of our product lifecycle,” Mr Nicholls explains. “From using more environmentally conscious packaging materials to optimising transportation methods, we are working to reduce environmental impact.” He adds that product development prioritises “low- wattage, energy-efficient technologies that help consumers reduce energy consumption without compromising on performance.” Looking at wider market trends, Mr Nicholls points to a shift in expectations. “Consumers are increasingly looking for products that offer quiet operation, modern styling and ease of


use,” he says. “There is also growing demand for portability, with solutions that can adapt to different rooms or be used on the go.” Importantly, he notes, “cooling products are no longer viewed as purely seasonal purchases, but as part of the home environment year-round.” Looking ahead, the brand continues to invest in innovation. “We are enhancing our existing portfolio while introducing new models, including updated USB-powered products and advanced air conditioning units building on our recent launches,” he says. “Our focus remains on improving performance, portability and design, ensuring we meet evolving consumer demands.”


designed to tackle pollen, dust and pet dander, while Quiet Mark approval ensures suitability for overnight use. In terms of product development, energy


Morphy Richards S1 Pro Ductless Personal Air Conditioner


British summer time Marc Duckworth, Product Manager at Product Care Group, points to strong early-season demand for key cooling categories within the Russell Hobbs portfolio. “Ahead of the summer season, we’re focusing on air treatment and cooling products, with air purifiers and bladeless fans performing particularly well so far,” he explains. Portability remains a major driver, with consumers seeking solutions that can be easily moved around the home to maintain comfort in both work and living spaces. Mr Duckworth also highlights the growing link between cooling and wellbeing. “As the weather warms up, pollen levels rise and indoor air can become difficult to tolerate for those who suffer from seasonal allergies,” he says. Products such as the Clean Air Style RHAP2831B air purifier, with its three-stage filtration system, are


efficiency continues to sit at the top of the consumer agenda. “With rising energy costs, efficiency remains one of the top priorities for customers,” Mr Duckworth notes, adding that products are designed to deliver strong performance while minimising energy consumption. At the same time, aesthetics and space-saving design are increasingly important, particularly for consumers with limited room. “Cooling products need to fit seamlessly into the home, with compact designs and sleek styling becoming key considerations,” he says. Smart functionality is also gaining momentum. “Smart Wi-Fi connectivity is something consumers actively seek for ease of use and energy saving, and our cooling NPD for 2026 will heavily feature this,” Mr Duckworth explains. Safety is another important factor, particularly for households with children or pets. “Our range of bladeless fans offers effective cooling without exposed blades, and demand continues to grow, which is why we’re expanding the range for 2026.” Sustainability and cost-conscious usage


are closely aligned in today’s market. “Smart features on our latest cooling models allow optimum control to reduce energy usage and help consumers avoid wasted energy,” he says, reinforcing the importance of balancing affordability, usability and efficiency. Looking at wider trends, Mr Duckworth points to the ongoing impact of the cost-of-living crisis. “Consumers are now seeing energy efficiency as an expectation and are actively seeking appliances that reduce both bills and carbon footprint,” he highlights. There is also a notable rise in demand for portable cooling, particularly among renters. “Portable products offer a quick-fix solution with no installation required, and we see a significant seasonal spike in demand,” he adds, highlighting models that combine both cooling and heating functions for year-round use. >>


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