Nick Portlock General Manager, Digital Appliances

2011 was a challenging year with manufacturers operating in what proved to be very tough market conditions. It was the year that saw a much more price oriented consumer, resulting in a stark polarisation of the market; with entry level and premium products faring well, but those pitched at the mid-market experiencing a much tougher time.

Colin Rodgers General Manager - Independents 

 I am writing this article after having just returned from the official opening of the new Samsung Brand store at Westfield Stratford. This new exclusive store, operated by Micro Anvika – a key Independent channel partner of ours, showcases all areas of the Samsung product range under one roof and provides a fantastic consumer experience.

Steve MacDonald Marketing Director 

Hoover Candy has reaffirmed its commitment to the Hoover Aristocrat range of major domestic appliances.

Launched in 2009, Hoover Aristocrat is an exclusive brand, available only to members of the Combined Independents (Holdings) buying group. The range, which covers the home laundry, refrigeration and dishwashing categories, is backed by a three-year warranty.

Peter Blampied, Director of Sales

Despite a continued challenging economic environment, 2011 has been a year of innovations for Pure and we continue to look forward with a positive view. We’ve brought to market what we believe to be game-changing products and services that have inspired our retail partners and their customers alike, and helped to drive our mutual businesses forward.

James Chambers Retail, Marketing Manager     

With such an exciting year ahead, you might think that Freeview has been resting on  its laurels in 2011.

Nothing could be further from the truth. In these uncertain times,  Freeview has again shown itself to be a winning option for digital TV. And with so  many ways to enjoy the best TV the UK has to offer including ‘+’ recorders, HD and  increasingly Freeview equipment with Smart functionality, things are looking rosy for  the future.

Ian Nicholson, Sales and Marketing Director 

Despite the gloomy economic outlook and market predictions for last year, 2011 has been  a hugely successful year for Bosch Small Appliances.

Over the past twelve months, the company has introduced several innovative  products, launched its premier stockist scheme for independent retailers; received  many product awards and won the coveted Total Excellence and Quality (TEQ)  customer service award for the third year running.

Bryan Lovewell,  Chief Executive 

In 2012, retra celebrates its 70th anniversary and the association is as important now, as it  ever has been.  Over the last 70 years, retra has worked tirelessly on behalf of its members and reaching  this fantastic milestone in its history is testament to the strength of the independent electrical  retailer in the UK.

Hannah Dedman  Publishing Director

As we start 2012 I am just getting prepared to go to CES and must say I am most excited and also intrigued at all the new products and technologies we will be reporting on and then relaying to our readers, although I am sure that there will be many retailers taking that flight to see for themselves the opportunities that are being showcased and how the lookand content of their showrooms may be affected this year.

Last year Alphason put in place more marketing initiatives and innovative product launches than ever before to help our retailer customer base weather the recessionary storm.

Our award-winning and highly successful Viewsmart programme of TV accessories – from AV furniture to cables – went from strength to strength as more retailers signed up for this margin-making initiative. We knew it would work and we’ve proved it.

BISSELL’s ReadyDry quick-dry carpet cleaner is a prime example of meeting consumer needs – and we’ve other new developments for 2010.

Entering a new decade, retailers should focus on consumer needs – family, pet, eco-conscious considerations for floorcare advantage in-store.

The last year has proven to be an interesting market for warranties at retail point of sale, particularly as it has fared very well in the otherwise turbulent retail environment. In fact, one could say it has fared well because of the turbulent markets.

The last year has proven to be an interesting market for warranties at retail point of sale, particularly as it has fared very well in the otherwise turbulent retail environment. In fact, one could say it has fared well because of the turbulent markets.

There’s no disguising the fact, general market conditions have been difficult over the last twelve months. Despite this, I’m pleased to report Armour Home has performed beyond our expectations. Due in no small part to our continued investment in new products, new technology, new people, new premises and, of course, training – we have seen record numbers of trainees this year.

Despite the challenging economic climate, 2009 was another successful year of innovation for Hoover Candy Group.

Under the Hoover brand, we introduced the Dynamic 10 washing machine, breaking the capacity barrier at the time with its 10kg load. Typical of the products we’re committed to bringing to market across built-in and freestanding, the Dynamic 10 answered demand for energy efficient products that delivered on performance and style.

The beginning of 2009 marked a bold move by Philips to address the continued challenges of the TV sector in the UK – continued commoditization that has eroded retailer margins, limited differentiation and lost sight of real consumer benefits.

To lay the foundations for a more profitable and consumer focused business, Philips confirmed that it was dramatically reviewing its TV strategy to focus on key partners that shared the vision to create value in a sea of black boxes.

“Among our biggest achievements in 2009 was LED TV. Consumers have been asking for a justification to spend their money and LED TV was a product that excited them. This was a product which was needed in the recession as it kept value well at the higher end of the electronics sector.

Throughout 2009 Miele has maintained its focus on innovation and the continuing development of efficient appliances with enhanced performance. Earlier in the year Miele launched its T8926 Heat Pump Dryer – an innovative tumble dryer with reduced energy consumption.  Both environmentally friendly and economical, the Heat Pump Dryer has an ‘A’ energy efficiency rating.

2009 has been a challenging year for most industries in the UK and whilst the outlook for 2010 is much brighter, it is vital that manufacturers and retailers take the time to reflect on the lessons they have learnt over the last 12 months.

If any benefits have come from the recession, it is that companies are monitoring their spending more closely and focusing on core areas of their businesses.

First of all I  would like to thank all our trade partners who have supported Videocon since our brand launch in July of this year.

 2009 has been a challenge for us all, and some would question launching a brand during these difficult times.  However, as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team at Videocon, and of the quality and design of our LCD range, the launch has been a great success. Our mission to make the desirable affordable has had a fantastic start, sometimes against all odds.