INNOVATION & DESIGN Tim Hutchinson
Liebherr UK
BKU’s Matt Broughton spoke with Tim Hutchinson, Divisional Manager at Liebherr UK.
espite tough trading conditions, 2024 has been a positive year for Liebherr, following several new launches and brand initiatives,” says Liebherr UK’s Divisional Manager, Tim Hutchinson. “Continuing our unwavering
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commitment to quality and reliability, we also introduced a 10-year guarantee on selected models as testament to our ongoing dedication to customer satisfaction. It has always been a priority for Liebherr to manufacture high quality white goods that won’t end up in landfill after only a few years of use. By offering this competitive guarantee, we assure our customers of the reliability and longevity of our products, giving 10 years of peace of mind.”
With sustainability front of mind, the company also launched its new generation of under counter appliances; an expanded range of 29 models that are the industry’s first under counter fridges and freezers with a class C energy efficiency rating. Adding to Liebherr’s portfolio of stainless-steel finishes, the company also recently introduced its new, high-quality BlackSteel interior. Ideal for modern, dark kitchen aesthetics, the new black stainless-steel surface features a unique vertical brushed texture and is now available for the back and inner door of the appliance.
I ask Tim if any customer trends surprised the company this year: “There has been a higher-than-expected demand for smart appliances, particularly for those looking to design multi-generational spaces. Technologies like hands-free operation and smart home integration are becoming more popular as consumers seek to create spaces that are more convenient but also more accessible for all ages. At Liebherr, we’ve responded to these trends with features such as AutoDoor technology, which allows users to open their fridge with a knocking signal or voice command. Additionally, our SmartDevice technology enables customers to control their appliances from a smartphone.”
Vinidor
Liebherr’s new Vinidor wine fridges were designed in response to a growing demand for specialised and high-quality wine storage. The range consists of 11 new models that combine form and functionality to provide market-leading storing and tempering for even the finest wine collections. The new Vinidor models provide reliable, constant temperature, HumidityControl, odour prevention and triple-layered UV protective glass doors to protect the wine’s character and taste. Different temperature-controlled zones also enable suitable storage of red, white and champagne within the same unit, providing
flexible storage that surpasses standard wine cellars. It’s a must-have for wine connoisseurs and collectors.
I ask Tim about the company’s attitude towards sustainability: “At Liebherr, our primary ambition is to improve sustainability across all facets of the company, and ultimately participate in a circular economy,” says Tim. “We feel a responsibility in our industry to drive technology and innovation to help meet these growing demands and are constantly striving to create products that are as sustainable as possible while also looking for ways to minimise our environmental impact and support the reduction of food waste through industry leading freshness innovation.”
Liebherr’s factory in Ochsenhausen, Germany, is leading the way in sustainable innovation with more than 5,000 solar modules producing up to 1,996,000 kWh of green power each year - equivalent to the annual consumption of 600 households. “We’re proud to offer one of the largest ranges of A-rated appliances in the UK, 30 products with an A or B energy efficiency rating.
“We also understand that freshness technology that minimises food waste is essential, and so we have invested heavily into product innovation to continue delivering freshness solutions, such as BioFresh, which remains popular with customers. BioFresh technology keeps food at temperature just above 0° C and with the perfect humidity level. Or look to HydroBreeze, a fine, cold mist that covers fruit and vegetables like a protective balm, ensuring crisp freshness and improved structure. “
Sustainability is set to remain a top priority for the company in 2025, along with a growing demand for appliances with energy saving capabilities. Time explains: “We’re excited to expand our range of sustainable appliances, and to grow our A-rated offering, including the launch of the ICBa 5123, the world’s first fully integrated fridge-freezer in energy efficiency class. “After the successful launch of our freestanding under counter appliances earlier this year, we’re also thrilled to introduce new integrated Under Counter fridges and freezers in 2025. Maintaining Liebherr’s high quality design, the new appliances are now available at 86-92cm tall to meet demand for increasingly higher worktops in the kitchen.”
20 BKU NOVEMBER 2024
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