Welcome to Influencers, our annual series that speaks with the heads of retailers, suppliers and industry bodies to find out what is happening in appliances and electronics and how different companies are shaping its future.
Danny Hamilton, CEO of (the new) Kleenmaid, tells of his joy at returning the Kleenmaid brand to retail after a long period of rebuilding, following the controversial collapse of the old Kleenmaid.
How has the first half of 2014 been for your business?
The first half of the year for Kleenmaid has been exhilarating as we have moved the brand back into retail supplementing our kitchen studio model. The response to the brand and our sales model from the retailers and the consumers has been terrific. Our attention to our product line-up ensures we have a unique and value packed offering and is proving to be very successful, resulting in improving market share and sales.
What are your predictions for the second half of the year?
Depending on the response to the budget, we are expecting substantial increases in sales. The housing market is strong and consumers are looking for quality for their expenditure. As the kitchen increasingly becomes the heart of the home and healthy nutrition is top of mind, and cooking continues to be the ‘flavour of the year’ due to the success of TV shows like MasterChef, the sale of quality appliances continually improves.
What opportunities do you see for the electrical retailing industry?
Retailers desperately need margin and product that can deliver opportunities to capture the attention of discerning consumers. Any brand that can do this will take an increasing position in the market and secure strong loyalty from retail sales channels.
What threats are currently present in the industry?
- The stalling of the economy as consumers sit back to assess the outcomes of the budget.
- The constant barrage of new brands on the market confusing the buying public.
- The continual push by brands to focus only on price and not quality.
What is your favourite product of 2014 so far?
Kleenmaid’s 2014 Black Krystal collection ovens are stunning with their nickel-free, non-toxic Oleophobic enamels and super capacities of up to 133 litres.
