SERVICING THE INDUSTRY FOR 31 YEARS
/// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2026
HOME CAFÉ PREMIUM AND PERSONALISED
REFRIGERATION
BEYOND CAPACITY ALONE
WINE CABINETS NO LONGER JUST FOR SERIOUS COLLECTORS
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SUSTAINABILITY LEADING BRANDS SHARE THEIR INSIGHTS
CHRISTMAS
TOP WISH LIST PICKS
COOLING
YEAR-ROUND SALES
FLOORCARE
ROBOT VACUUMS GAIN
YUMMEAL
COOKING FOR ONE, SORTED.
EDITORʼS NOTE AR
The battle of the appliance brands
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t was only two months ago that I was reflecting on the shifting retail landscape amid the collapse of Leading Edge Group, and now as I write this column, my attention turns to the brand battlefield as Beko announces the closure of its Australian operations, a short time after making the decision to cease operations in neighbouring New Zealand. Beko says the decision follows a comprehensive review of its global operations and was reached after “extensive deliberation and careful consideration of all options”. With no further explanation provided, the following comments are purely based on my own assessment of the market when considering the question, why has a global appliance manufacturer decided that operating a local Australian subsidiary is no longer the right strategy? Firstly, Australia is not an easy market. We are enormous from a geographic point of view but with a relatively small population largely spread across major cities, making logistics complex and costly, alongside investment required for people, warehousing, spare parts, service networks, warranties, marketing, and manufacturing products to meet strict Australian standards. Secondly, the middle market is becoming increasingly crowded. A brand has to offer enough differentiation to justify its place in the showroom, while remaining competitive enough on price to move volume, which is a difficult balancing act.
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Thirdly, the Chinese factor cannot be ignored. Manufacturers from China are becoming increasingly capable of delivering sophisticated products at aggressive price points. Categories once dominated by European brands, are now competing with the Chinese too. And not on price alone, but cutting-edge technology and design. This creates brand paralysis for consumers, while putting increasing pressure on brands to provide an even more compelling and unique proposition. Finally, the broader appliance industry is more competitive than ever, and we are seeing more brands diversify their portfolio to stay relevant – including well-established names like LG entering the hair dryer category. Another example is, again coming out of China, ECOVACS, Dreame and Roborock expanding into the outdoors with robotic lawn mowers and pool cleaners. Beko’s departure from the market also raises some important questions: how many appliance brands can the Australian market realistically support? Are retailers carrying too many ‘me-too’ ranges? What does the next generation of successful appliance brands look like? And who will still be here when the next round of consolidation begins?
Editor Emily Bencic
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TEFAL SUPPORTS SOLO COOKING Tefal has launched YumMeal in Australia, a new 2-in-1 appliance combining an air fryer and induction cooktop, specifically designed for people cooking for one. Its compact design and removable 1.2L bowl allow users to prepare, cook, serve, eat and store meals in a single vessel, reducing dishes and simplifying everyday cooking. Two heating technologies provide fast, even results, while an intuitive three-button interface and enamel-coated bowl make operation and cleaning easy. YumMeal also connects with the MyTefal app, offering more than 60 recipes that take fewer than five steps and less than 20 minutes. The appliance aims to make solo cooking simpler, convenient and enjoyable.
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Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
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CONTENTS AR
82 93 VOLUME 32 / ISSUE #5
IN THIS ISSUE EDITOR’S NOTE
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Beko leaves the Australian market amid increasing competition.
Over 230 floor staff from stores around Australia joined the two-day event with 21 suppliers.
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The battle of the appliance brands
NEWS
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eko confirms closure of B Australian operations
The decision was reached after extensive deliberation and careful consideration of all options.
Harvey Norman hosts second Major Domestic Appliances Expo
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Betta Stores passing the baton
Why succession is an important part of survival for any independent electrical retail business.
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The Hisense ConnectLife app makes managing the connected home easier, bringing compatible Hisense appliances together in one place.
FEATURES
Hisense ConnectLife makes everyday living smarter and simpler
IFA 2026: More visitors, exhibitors, AI, and robotics
Major brands showcase their latest appliances and technology products.
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Home Café
The coffee machine market is growing, driven by premiumisation and changing consumer behaviour.
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Floorcare
The vacuum category remains a strong driver within SDA, supported by higher-priced robotic vacuums, as well as wet and dry types.
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Wine Cabinets
For retailers, the message is clear – don’t sell a wine fridge. Instead, sell the customer a better way to own, preserve, organise and enjoy their wine collection.
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Christmas
The benchtop appliances and personal care products on this year’s wish list.
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Cooling
Energy efficiency and running cost are important for split-system buyers, while retail staff and website content play a meaningful role in final brand choice.
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Refrigeration
French Door and Multi-Door configurations in demand amid a more competitive market environment.
WHAT’S HOT
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Pick of the crop
Beko Laundry, BeefEater BBQ, SMEG Air Fryer, Midea Refrigerator, Westinghouse SDA Cookers, Vintec Wine Cabinet and more.
PLUS
Sustainability Report
Leading brands share their latest sustainability achievements and explain what lies ahead for the industry. www.applianceretailer.com.au
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AR NEWS
JB Hi-Fi targets NSW with e&s national rollout strategy e&s has commenced its national rollout strategy with a ‘commercial-first’ deployment of staff and resources including plans to specifically target the NSW market. In an exclusive interview with Appliance Retailer, JB Hi-Fi CEO Nick Wells confirmed the national rollout plans, which includes a commercial-first approach deployment of staff initially with a physical retail store and commercial showroom presence likely to follow in selected areas. “Our expansion nationally will lead with commercial, in a similar way to the way [e&s managing director] Rob Sinclair launched the company’s business outside of Victoria in Canberra,” Wells said. “We will build out the commercial network with commercial account managers and business development managers, however we believe in having a retail presence as well as it is important to physically serve both our commercial customers and retail customers.” e&s is accelerating its expansion into Sydney, New South Wales, with two key commercial appointments. Chantelle Davy and Thomas Myers have joined e&s as Commercial Leaders for NSW to lead growth and establish a commercial footprint in Australia’s largest market. Most recently, Davy worked for Winning Group for one year after working for Electrolux in various roles over 11 years. Myers joins e&s after two stints working with Winning Commercial. He joined Shriro in between roles for 18 months as account manager and sales representative. Additional appointments have been made to streamline project delivery and enhance day-to-day operational support across Projects and Volume Builder channels. Dane Hobson has been promoted to Head of Sales – Volume Builder & Projects (VIC/TAS/QLD). He will lead the strategic expansion and channel performance across these regions, stepping in to cover Melissa Goedheer, who is on maternity leave. When she returns in 2027, she will assume full responsibility for the Victorian Projects team. Marcel Bruin steps into an expanded operational leadership role within the Victorian Volume Builder channel, providing hands-on management and support to daily sales operations. Joanna De Jesus transitions to the Volume Builder & New Homes
JB Hi-Fi CEO, Nick Wells and e&s managing director, Rob Sinclair.
“We will build out the commercial network with commercial account managers and business development managers, however we believe in having a retail presence as well as it is important to physically serve both our commercial customers and retail customers.” team as Custom Selection Specialist, bringing her expertise directly to the high-end residential pipeline. To champion design-led partnerships and ensure seamless transitions from concept to construction, Kate Scanlon has been promoted to Head of Designer Engagement. She will lead the Kitchen Design and A&D teams across Victoria and Tasmania, while driving the strategy for national design engagement. Tony Cameron, Specification Manager, partners with Scanlon to bring deep technical expertise directly to active development projects. Jackson Fahey, Mike Fuller, Lynn Ren (VIC), and Hillary Norman (TAS), Business Development Managers within the e&s Kitchen Design team, will continue under Scanlon’s leadership.
BEKO CONFIRMS CLOSURE OF AUSTRALIAN OPERATIONS As part of a comprehensive review of its global operations, Beko has made the decision to close its Australian subsidiary, Beko Australia. Operations will close in the first quarter of 2027. “This decision was reached after extensive deliberation and careful consideration of all options,” a statement from Beko said. “To ensure continuity of customer support for Beko branded products
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in Australia, Beko has coordinated necessary arrangements for the continued provision of after-sales and customer services and continue to honour its applicable warranty obligations in accordance with the applicable laws of Australia and the warranty terms and conditions. “We are working closely with our teams and partners to manage this exit in a sensitive and responsible manner.”
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
It follows Beko’s exit from the New Zealand market, announced in August 2026, bringing an end to the company’s commercial operations in the country, following a review of local market conditions and the long-term viability of the business.
NEWS AR
BSH APPOINTS NEW GLOBAL CEO AS DR MATTHIAS METZ STEPS DOWN BSH CEO and chairman, Dr Matthias Metz has stepped down from the board of management, after four years at the helm. He has been succeeded by former BSH chief sales and service officer, Rudolf Klötscher. “As an experienced, entrepreneurially successful leader who is highly familiar with BSH and well-respected by its employees, Rudolf’s extensive knowledge of the company and its markets make him the ideal choice to lead BSH into the future, ensuring stability and continuity in leadership while creating the foundation for the sustainable future development of BSH,” BSH chairman of the supervisory board, Christian Fischer said. Klötscher emphasised: “I’m looking forward to this new responsibility, which I assume with deep respect and determination. My goal is to consistently drive BSH’s transformation forward, providing new impetus, continuing to delight our customers and consumers globally with innovation, and ensuring our long-term, sustainable success.”
BSH CEO and chairman, Dr Matthias Metz has stepped down from the board of management.
Rudolf Klötscher has succeeded Dr Matthias Metz as BSH CEO and chairman.
Alongside the new CEO appointment, Mirko Aksentijevic, president of BSH region Europe, ANZ and Latin America, has been appointed to the BSH board of management. As part of this appointment, Aksentijevic will also assume responsibility for the India and Emerging Markets regions, as well as brand management and global customer service. These are seen as positive developments from an Australian and New Zealand perspective, as pointed out by BSH ANZ interim CEO, Robert Warner. “Both Rudi and Mirko know our part of the world well, having visited Australia and
New Zealand over the past 12 months to spend time with our teams, meet with key customers and partners, and experience the local market first-hand. We discussed the significant growth potential across both our retail and commercial channels, as well as the strength of our brands and partnerships in the region. “Importantly, Rudi and Mirko understand the opportunities and unique dynamics of our Australian and New Zealand businesses. We look forward to working closely with them both as we build the next chapter of BSH in Australia and New Zealand.”
ASKO Australia appoints new managing director and product training manager ASKO Australia has appointed James Chen as managing director, succeeding Kevin Ke who has taken a step back from ASKO Australia to manage the Hisense Australia business. Ke became managing director of ASKO Australia in May 2019 before taking on an expanded role as Hisense Group managing director for Australia and New Zealand in December 2024, overseeing both the Hisense and ASKO brands. His successor, Chen was most recently deputy general manager of Hisense Malaysia. Chen brings 19 years of experience in the home appliance industry across Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia, having worked with Midea and Haier. His extensive background spans product strategy, market development, product marketing and commercial leadership. In his new role, Chen will lead ASKO Australia into its next phase of growth and continue strengthening the brand’s position in the market. ASKO Australia has also welcomed Matt Ahern as national product training manager, joining the business with more than 30 years of experience in training, retail, sales and customer engagement. His extensive background includes
senior training leadership roles with Winnings, Electrolux and SMEG, where he developed and implemented high-impact training programs that enhanced product expertise and commercial performance. Ahern will lead the development and delivery of ASKO’s training initiatives across Australia, ensuring retail partners, sales teams and industry stakeholders are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to communicate the unique value of the ASKO brand and its premium product offerings. “Matt’s appointment is a significant addition to our ASKO ANZ team and underscores our commitment to investing in capability, expertise and customer experience,” ASKO Australia sales director, Greg Calnon said. “Having worked with Matt for several years previously, I have no doubt his depth of industry knowledge, proven training leadership and strong understanding of both retail and premium appliance categories make him exceptionally well positioned to help accelerate ASKO’s growth ambitions in Australia. “Training is one of the most powerful investments a brand can make and having the right person for a premium brand is critical.”
ASKO Australia managing director, James Chen.
ASKO Australia national product training manager, Matt Ahern.
www.applianceretailer.com.au
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How Hisense ConnectLife makes everyday living smarter and simpler
With ConnectLife, Hisense customers can manage compatible appliances from their Hisense TV.
The Hisense ConnectLife app is an all-in-one platform designed to make managing the connected home simpler, bringing compatible Hisense appliances together in one place. Users can remotely monitor and control products, check appliance status, receive notifications, track energy and water consumption, and create automated routines tailored to everyday life. ConnectLife offers intelligent features including AI-powered meal planning and recipe generation, personalised laundry programs, smart climate control and geofencing, wine inventory management, and integration with Alexa and Google Home, helping Hisense technology work together seamlessly around the household. Through ConnectLife, Australians can schedule the washing machine or dishwasher to run during off-peak hours, turn on the air conditioning before arriving home, check fridge temperatures and food inventory, and receive a real-time update when a cycle is complete. The connected ecosystem reduces the need to manage every appliance separately, allowing compatible devices to respond to household routines. “People are living with smart technology but still doing everyday life the hard way. With ConnectLife, Australians can discover how everyday tasks can be made simpler,” Hisense Australia and New Zealand managing director, Kevin Ke said. “Smart Assist can select the right wash and dry cycle for a chosen fabric; while Meal Planner and Dish Designer can turn ingredients into inspiration. You can also remotely control your air conditioner and more. 8
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
These are practical features that can reduce decisions, minimise waste and give households more time for what matters. Our ambition is for ConnectLife to become a true assistant to households – an increasingly integrated and personalised way to manage the home.” Hisense recently unveiled its future vision for this technology at IFA 2026. Powered by ConnectLife, the AI Companion Suite will bring connected intelligence to the kitchen, laundry and living spaces through four AI capabilities: Sense, Think, Communicate and Execute. The system is designed to recognise what is happening around it, understand what users want, communicate naturally across devices and coordinate responses.
With ConnectLife, Hisense customers can check the food inventory in their fridge.
There’s a Smarter Way Connect your compatible Hisense appliances in one easy-to-use app. Bring greater convenience, control and efficiency to the moments and routines that shape every day life.
Scan the QR to learn more *App screens are subject to change. Layout may vary between versions.
AR NEWS
Austere calls on retailers to unlock the value of premium HDMI Consumers are investing in premium technology designed to deliver bigger, brighter and more immersive entertainment experiences, as TVs, gaming consoles and streaming devices continue to evolve. Yet one essential component is often overlooked: the HDMI cable. Austere has established itself as a leader in premium home entertainment connectivity by redefining what consumers expect from an HDMI cable. Rather than treating HDMI as a commodity accessory, Austere combines industry-leading performance with premium design, making connectivity an integral part of the home entertainment experience. Austere HDMI cables are engineered using premium materials and advanced construction techniques to maximise signal integrity, durability and longterm reliability. Oxygen-free copper conductors provide optimal conductivity while helping reduce signal loss, and silver-plated conductors enable faster, cleaner signal transmission and enhanced long-term performance. Pure goldplated contacts resist oxidation and help maintain reliable connections over time.
Durability is enhanced through Kevlar-reinforced WovenArmor construction, and a highly flexible cable jacket makes installation easier in tight spaces. LinkFit connectors provide a secure grip, helping minimise accidental disconnections and signal interruptions. While TVs, gaming consoles and media players regularly receive software and firmware updates to unlock new features and improve performance, the HDMI cable is the only part of the signal chain that must be repurchased. If it lacks bandwidth, consumers cannot experience the full capabilities of their devices. “For retailers, this creates an opportunity to educate customers about HDMI’s role in the overall entertainment experience. A premium TV can only perform as well as the connection between the source device and display. If that connection becomes the bottleneck, picture quality, audio performance and gaming responsiveness can all be compromised,” Austere founder and CEO, Deena Ghazarian said.
Austere HDMI cables combine industry-leading performance with premium design.
The introduction of HDMI 2.1 dramatically increased bandwidth to 48Gbps, supporting 8K60 and 4K120 formats, uncompressed audio and advanced gaming features. Now, HDMI 2.2 and Ultra96 HDMI cables support up to 96Gbps bandwidth. For movies, this enables high-quality, uncompressed surround sound through Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC), allowing compatible soundbars and AV receivers to reproduce cinema-quality audio without additional setup or menu adjustments. For games, it helps minimise latency, reduce screen tearing and deliver smoother, more responsive gameplay.
FORMER BSR CMO ALISON RILEY JOINS ELECTROLUX GROUP Electrolux Group has made several strategic capability and collaborative approach, he appointments aimed at strengthening adds valuable expertise to one of the group’s customer partnerships and supporting growth largest retail partnerships. across key retail accounts. Further strengthening the team, Jason Former BSR Group chief merchandise Wade has joined as key account manager – officer, Alison Riley has joined the group as Winnings & Specialists. Wade brings extensive national business manager for the Harvey experience across the premium appliance Norman account. and specialist retail channels, with a strong “The appointment of Alison to lead the background in account management, Electrolux Group national business Harvey Norman account is an exciting addition customer development and building highmanager for Harvey Norman, Alison Riley. for both our business and our customers,” performing retail partnerships. His experience Electrolux Group sales director, Hass Mahdi said. and strong industry relationships will support continued growth “Alison brings extensive industry experience, having spent and engagement across the specialist retail segment. the past nine years with the BSR Group, most recently as chief In recent months, the Group has also appointed Con merchandise officer. Her deep understanding of the retail Verteouris, Gareth Chamberlain, Seren Sahin and Louise Miller landscape and customer needs will be invaluable as we continue across key sales and customer-facing roles. to strengthen our partnership with Harvey Norman.” “These professionals bring a wealth of experience and strong The business has also continued to strengthen its customerindustry relationships,” Mahdi added. facing team with the appointment of Daniel Mortlock as key “Collectively, they strengthen our ability to support customers, account manager – Harvey Norman for cooking, floorcare & deepen retail partnerships and drive sustainable growth across BBQs. Mortlock brings more than 11 years of industry experience the Australian market. Their expertise will further enhance the across Mitsubishi Electric, Samsung and Harvey Norman. Highly support we provide to our retail partners and reinforce our regarded for his strong customer management skill, forecasting commitment to delivering long-term value for customers.” 10
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
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BSR WELCOMES OVER 300 DELEGATES TO NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SUNSHINE COAST The Betta Stores Retail (BSR) Group welcomed over 300 delegates to the Twin Waters resort on the Sunshine Coast for the 2026 National Conference and Buying Expo. In his opening address to delegates, BSR Group CEO, Derek Haley discussed the theme of the conference – ‘One Team. One Vision. Proud Past. Powerful Future’ and celebrated important milestones for the business. “This year is particularly special as we celebrate 65 years of the Betta brand, an extraordinary milestone, that very few retail brands ever achieve,” he said. “We also celebrate 20 years of the BSR Group, two decades of supporting each other – independent retailers who compete, grow and succeed. To everyone who’s contributed to these milestones, our members, our supplier partners, and our team thank you for your commitment, resilience and belief in what we are doing together. “When you move across the retail landscape it’s impossible not to notice the level of disruption. Some brands have closed, some have pulled back, and others have needed to restructure. Why? There is rarely one cause, but the warning is clear. Businesses that lose relevance, fail to adapt, or forget what makes them different, become vulnerable. “That leads to an important question for all of us. What is our point of difference? It isn’t the products we sell. It isn’t just our buying power, our promotions or our stores. Our greatest strength is that we are independent and local. “Economic conditions remain challenging. Cost of living pressures continue to influence consumer behavior. Competition has intensified. The retail landscape has evolved faster than ever before driven by changing customer expectations, AI, digital disruption, and new business models. “These challenges are real, but they are not unique to us. The question isn’t whether the market has changed. The question is, how will we respond? I’m pleased to say our long-term strategy remains the same. And it is the right one. “Our purpose has not changed. It is, and always will be, better growth. Our plan is centered on five key priorities that will ensure we deliver that purpose. Each priority has a clear leadership accountability, but delivery will require all of us to work together as one team. “Our success has always been built on collaboration, our members, our supply partners, and our support office team, working together with a shared purpose. That is why our theme is so important. It reflects our belief that confidence comes from collaboration, partnership, and accountability. With everyone moving in the same direction, aligned behind a common vision, we become stronger together. One team, one vision. Together we define what’s next.” 12
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
BSR Group CEO, Derek Haley discussed the theme of the conference – ‘One Team. One Vision. Proud Past. Powerful Future’ and celebrated important milestones for the business.
Gavin Carter and Karen Hope from BSR Group.
Emile Redden (Panasonic), Louise and Glenn Cain (BSR) and Troy Hinchco (BSR).
Barry Campbell (Campbell’s Betta Electrical Burnie Tasmania) and Graeme Cunningham (BSR Group).
AR NEWS
Bi-Rite CEO, Abdul Kayum Sacur welcomed attendees to the conference.
Bi-Rite COO, Hamza Hussein shared a performance snapshot for major product categories.
Bi-Rite holds National Conference on the Gold Coast Bi-Rite Home Appliances brought together store owners, suppliers, and partners from across Australia for its 2026 National Conference, held at the Sheraton Grand Mirage on the Gold Coast from 19 to 21 September. The event opened with a welcome dinner at the hotel on Saturday evening, in conjunction with fellow Narta member, 100% Appliances based in New Zealand. On Sunday, presentations were delivered by representatives from Bi-Rite head office. Bi-Rite CEO, Abdul Kayum (AK) Sacur welcomed attendees, discussing the key areas of business investment including the next generation of its KNAPS system, expanding the marketing team, and enhancing head office capabilities, as well as addressing how AI is being used by the business to deliver smarter operations, better customer experiences, data-driven decisions and improved efficiency, growth and opportunity. Bi-Rite COO, Hamza Hussein then took the stage to share a performance snapshot for major product categories including whitegoods, smalls and TV/AV, for the period from January 2026 to July 2026, with premium segments such as heat pump dryers, induction cooktops and robotic vacuums driving value growth across the group. He also noted an opportunity to lift sales in under-
Bi-Rite brought together store owners, suppliers, and partners from across Australia.
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Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
performing categories including TVs, coffee machines and beauty/personal care. To share highlights from the group’s marketing investment this year was Bi-Rite group marketing coordinator, Megan Holden-Wells. These included enhanced SEO, revamped CRM, a new partnership with a strategic marketing agency for the Brand Customer Value Proposition (CVP) Project to uncover what matters most to customers and members, and the upcoming launch of a national campaign, ‘Comes With A Local’. Bi-Rite marketing officer, Mohamed Azhar Ebrahim concluded the morning’s presentations by discussing new website tools, the ongoing rollout of Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs) and online product training platform, The Rite Skills, designed for store teams to help build confidence on the shop floor. There was also a supplier trade show featuring product updates from Bissell, Breville, CHiQ, Haier, LG, Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic, Spectrum Brands and Sunbeam, with extended sessions from Electrolux and SharkNinja. A dinner cruise attended by all guests concluded Sunday’s conference activities. On Monday, Bi-Rite’s category and marketing teams led closed workshops for Bi-Rite members.
Peter Hill (100% Appliances), Hamza Hussein (Bi-Rite), Abdul Kayum Sacur (Bi-Rite) and Darren Spencer (Narta).
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Harvey Norman hosts second Major Domestic Appliances Expo in Sydney ABOVE: Craig Weekes, Jacky Glading, Tyson Osewald and Tristan McGuire from Samsung. BELOW: Chris Coen (Harvey Norman Flemington head office), Kieran Moon (Harvey Norman Munno Para), Nick Wells (Harvey Norman Launceston) and Peter Hearn (Harvey Norman Osborne Park).
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arvey Norman hosted its second annual Major Domestic Appliances Expo in Sydney at Rosehill Racecourse. Over 230 floor staff from stores located all over Australia were flown in to join the two-day event with 21 suppliers showcasing their latest products with impressive displays. Brands showcasing products at the Expo across refrigeration, laundry, dishwashers and air conditioning included AEG, Vintec, Westinghouse, Fisher & Paykel, Haier, LG, Hisense, Samsung, Mitsubishi Electric, Fujitsu General, Rinnai, ActronAir, Olimpia Splendid, CHiQ, Whirlpool, SMEG, Liebherr, ASKO, Bosch and Miele.
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Harvey Norman business development manager – major domestic appliances, Iain Tennant said this year’s Expo has been the launching pad for a number of new products into the market coming into the warmer summer months. “This year’s Expo has been about focusing on exciting new products that have been launched here including a new SMEG dishwasher, new refrigeration from Fisher & Paykel and Haier, new laundry from Haier, new refrigeration from Westinghouse and Vintec as well as new refrigeration from LG. “The timing for this event is ideal coming into summer and the peak period of trade and preparing our staff for the onslaught of customers. Within refrigeration there has been a big innovation focus from suppliers on ice and water offering up to four types of ice as well as plumbed and non-plumbed options as well as side door technology. There are also new grey glass finishes and flush mount models of refrigeration being introduced for the first time to the industry. “In the laundry category, two-button operation is now the norm under the new regulations and our job is to encourage consumers to trade up to better features such as tower products, heat pump dryers, washer dryers and larger capacities as well as the latest multi-wash solution with up to three drums in a single product. “Energy efficiency is also a big trend across the major domestic appliance sector particularly with impact on the cost of living from interest rates and fuel prices. Specifically within the dishwashing category, we are seeing auto-dosing as becoming a more important feature as well.”
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Chris Coen (Harvey Norman), Mark Churcher (SMEG), Chris Horne (SMEG) and Rodney Manauzzi (SMEG) with the new SMEG Diamond dishwasher.
ABOVE: Chris Coen (Harvey Norman), Phil Gaut (Samsung) and Iain Tennant (Harvey Norman). RIGHT: Harvey Norman Osborne Park sales staff member, Kerrie Rundell and store proprietor, Peter Hearn attended the Major Domestic Appliances Expo in Sydney. Scott Hamer-Mathew, Bahwin Patel, Natalia Rios, Joel Tacon, Alison Riley, Graham Peters, Ben Davis, Ramon Athanos and James Star from Electrolux Home Products with the new Vintec wine cabinets. Chris Coen (Harvey Norman) and Alison Riley (Electrolux) with the new stainless steel Westinghouse refrigerator featuring an Australian-first in-door water dispenser.
Peter Dulisse (Fisher & Paykel) and Iain Tennant (Harvey Norman) with the new Series 7 and Series 11 laundry products.
Harvey Norman general manager of domestic appliances, Chris Coen said the Expo has become an important event in the calendar to provide suppliers with the opportunity to launch new technology into the market. “We are successfully positioned as the partner of choice for suppliers to launch new technology and innovation. We are not resting on our laurels and understand that we need our salespeople to be more informed than the consumer when it comes to the last three-feet of the sale by understanding the technology to ensure we can qualify the customer and place the correct product into a consumer’s home,” Coen said. Osborne Park electrical proprietor, Peter Hearn travelled from Western Australia to attend the Expo. “I have one of my experienced sales specialists here from the Osborne Park store – Kerrie Rundle – and she has learned a lot at this event. It provides essential staff training, product knowledge and exposure to the new technology and allows the floor staff to see the best products in the world. “After the Expo, Kerrie will return to the store and contribute to internal discussions including our weekly recaps on Saturday morning. They also walk the floor and update the staff on the new products coming to market and what is happening with each of our key brands and suppliers. We then have ongoing visits to the store from our key suppliers who can supplement this knowledge,” Hearn said. “It is a huge privilege and a reward for the floor staff to come to these events from all over Australia. There is a mixture of new staff and experienced staff here which is great. It is very important to assist with educating new staff, but the more experienced staff also enjoy seeing the new products and this makes them energised.” AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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AR RETAIL PROFILE
Betta Gladstone store.
Betta Stores passing the baton
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BY JAMES WELLS
he process of succession is an important part of the survival for any independent electrical retail business as well as the long term viability of entire retail groups such as BSR – the franchisor behind the Betta brand. The recent transition by Brent Jordison and his wife Bronwyn with two separate Betta businesses in two separate locations with two different succession plans provides a blueprint that others can follow.
BUYING GLADSTONE BETTA
Fuelled by a passion for music, pianist Brent Jordison started working in retail at a music store located in the regional Queensland town of Murgon at the age of 17. Shortly afterwards he joined Retravision under the guidance of Tom Edwards from RT Edwards and then later Peffers Betta Electrical in Carindale. After a chance meeting sitting next to Betta Gladstone store owner George Stephenson on a plane to Sydney attending a Maytag laundry event, Jordison was asked: “What are you doing with your career, young fellow?” and Jordison replied: “Waiting for you fellas to adopt me”. “A couple of months later, my wife Bronwyn and I were at the Betta Conference,” Brent recalls. “George and his wife Gail called us up to their hotel room where he showed us a succession plan including a 18
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
P&L and a balance sheet as well as a strategy for us to take over the Gladstone store which we did in 1999. We saw it as a great career move and an opportunity to own our own business. We initially paid off the debt in small chunks and eventually purchased the business outright five years later and ever since, it has been a wonderful ride.”
TOM KIRCHNER
“About 12 years ago, we hired Tom Kirchner to our business after we first met playing music together in a band,” Jordison said. “At that time, Tom had finished a music degree and didn’t quite know what path to take as it is difficult to make a living through music living in Gladstone. So I suggested that he should come and join us at Betta as a sales manager. Within 12 months, Tom was very ambitious and showed a lot of promise, so we promoted him to store manager. We discussed further selfimprovement and together we worked out a way Tom could manage the store and also complete a university degree in his own time, on days off and night, and the business would pay for it. Starting the business degree in 2014 and graduating in 2018 took real discipline to do the work in his spare time while working in a seven-day a week store. We could clearly see his learnings contributed to him having almost a sixth sense around the business.”
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THE BILOELA EXPANSION
Once Tom had completed his degree, Brent realised he was finding it difficult to offer further pathways to grow within the business. “We were running out of ways to incentivise Tom because he had reached the top of his game – there was nowhere further to promote him and there was nothing further to learn. “We received a phone call from the BSR head office in Brisbane and they said there was a store at Biloela – about an hour west of Gladstone – that needed to be rejuvenated. “We realised he could take a share of the business with us, so we created a separate entity and made Tom a 49 per cent shareholder. We decided to keep progressing and over the next seven years we opened three separate stores in Biloela – a Betta store, as well as a furniture store, as well as a SportsPower store across the road.
PASSING THE BATON
After successfully expanding into Biloela, the baton has now been passed and Tom now operates all three of the Biloela stores with his fiancée Kayla O’Rourke. “We always had an understanding within our original agreement that when Tom was ready and felt he had the equity ready to go, that he could buy out our share of the Biloela business – which we’ve recently executed just a few months ago,” Jordison said. “Apart from the start-up capital funded by Bronwyn and I, the growth of the Biloela business was funded from cashflow including the purchase of two of the buildings housing electrical and furniture that are around 450 square metres each. Tom recently purchased the remaining 51 per cent of the shares in the business and we still co-own the buildings. For Tom his shares have gone into a trust and for Bronwyn and I the buildings have gone into our super fund and will continue to grow wealth.
Hayley Jordison, Brent Jordison, Bronwyn Jordison, Blake Jordison, Tom Kirchner and Kayla O’Rourke.
“Overall it has been a wonderful journey and it probably couldn’t have worked out any better than we planned. It has become a great business and perhaps we were lucky that we got the timing right as well. We all took what we learned from all the years running the Gladstone business and took it to Biloela with a very modern mindset about how to run the business and the locals have embraced it. At just 33 years of age Tom said he is very grateful to the Jordison family. “I was lucky enough to learn from some of the best in the industry, if not the best. It has been a great journey and I wouldn’t change a thing. Brent has always given me great advice such as empowering staff by ‘if it is good for the business and it is good for the customer, then just do it’ as well as ‘always under promise and over deliver’. →
Sportspower Biloela store.
Betta Biloela furniture store.
www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Betta Biloela electrical and appliance store.
GLADSTONE FUTURE
Bronwyn and Brent’s daughter Hayley started working in the 720 square metre Gladstone store in 2016 at the age of 17 and she has since taken over as store manager following Tom’s departure to Biloela. Hayley is joined by her brother Blake who also joined the business in 2020 and has recently completed a business degree. Both siblings are currently working on a strategy to buy the Gladstone store from Bronwyn who still works in the store and Brent who stepped away from day-to-day operations two years ago. Brent continues to volunteer on the BSR MCC Member Committee and still has a strong affection for the industry. “I love BSR and I love the industry. I can be a bit vocal sometimes, but I do like advocating for other members within the group.”
SUCCESSION ADVICE
“My advice is – when you have senior people in the business, keep them learning. When we started with Tom, we didn’t have the vision that he was going to go on and become a partner with us, but over time and after his formal qualification, it was just a natural progression,” Brent says. “This proves that it’s not about starting to find someone to take your business over when you’re 70, it’s about working on it all the time and start planning now. Some people say the key to good management is about superseding yourself and training people that are able to do the job better than you could ever do it. You don’t have to have any specific long-term plan, but training is the basis of it all. “Structuring a succession plan can be done in lots of ways. When the opportunity arises, develop a structured plan with a legally binding shareholder and management agreement. What led to the success of our partnerships was having formalised agreements, even with your children, and maintaining open, regular communication so everyone’s on the same page. “Succession also relies on sustainability. In many ways, it’s the ultimate test of whether you’ve built something that’s worth investing in. And that’s a question for each member 20
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and for the wider BSR group. The easier and more profitable we make our business model, the more confidence people will have to invest. And ultimately, it’s that investment that will keep our businesses alive for the next generation. I think we’ve done a great job at maintaining relevance with our customers. “The strength in our business is our connection to community and this plays out in our customers’ minds and our suppliers. There’s definitely a sacrifice in owning and running a small business, there’s the risk, the impact on family and often your health…but I’ve absolutely loved it. I still stand at the front door of our business with great pride knowing this place is ours and now I get to share that experience with my kids. Succession isn’t about just selling a business. It’s about creating something that outlives you. Something your family, your staff and the local community can continue to be proud of. If we get that right, the rewards don’t stop when we retire – they continue for generations. “Tom’s experience taught us a lot and we could have made him partner in our Gladstone business, but our two kids were working in the shop and it turned out they shared the same passion for the business. These days, it’s a truly rewarding experience watching the kids grow up inside our business, carving out their future while Bronwyn and I gradually step back, though I’ve stepped back further than she has. Hayley being the older more mature of the two, consistently delivers standout sales and Blake has taken Tom’s direction and has just completed his Bachelor of Business. The two kids have quite different skill sets and personality profiles, which has made for a formidable partnership. We are as proud as can be of both kids and we’re currently working on structuring a path for them to take a share in our company. “If you’re approaching the end of your business or working life and you expect to realise the value in the business you worked so hard to create, the hard truth is noone’s going to walk in the door and hand over a multiple of profit. In fact, in a majority of cases, stores are sold for just stock value. So having a succession plan in place is vital if you are going to maximise your way out.” AR
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IFA 2026:
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More visitors, more exhibitors, more AI, and more robotics
FA Berlin, the world’s largest event for consumer electronics, home appliances, and future technology welcomed 240,000 visitors from 155 countries and over 2,000 exhibitors in 2026, surpassing the previous year’s figures. Over the course of five days, IFA brought key technology trends and innovations to life at the Berlin exhibition grounds. “IFA 2026 was bigger and more international than ever before. Even more exhibitors and visitors, a greater presence of media and content creators, a significantly expanded program, and new immersive experience zones demonstrated just how dynamic and diverse IFA Berlin is,” IFA Management GmbH CEO, Leif Lindner said. “Artificial intelligence and robotics are playing a role
in an increasing number of product segments and were present in almost all show areas. At the same time, the expansion of our exhibition areas allowed us to reach many new visitors. IFA brings together an extraordinary variety of people including global brands, the retail and industrial sectors, start-ups and the research community, media, creators, consumers, and policymakers. “From smart home appliances and humanoid robots to new solutions in mobility, beauty, and entertainment, IFA showcased the broad scope of modern innovation. IFA is thus far more than just a product showcase; it is a hub for exchange, inspiration, and new ideas, and an international stage that reveals how technology will shape the lives of tomorrow.” www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Dreame showcases next-generation smart cleaning innovations Under the theme ‘Redefining Tomorrow’s Home’, Dreame Technology unveiled its latest smart home innovations, headlined by the upcoming Dreame X60 Ultra Extreme, alongside the Aqua20 Ultra Roller and the expanding T16 Series. Beyond floorcare, IFA 2026 highlighted Dreame’s broader vision for a connected smart living ecosystem, with innovations spanning personal care, outdoor and garden maintenance, air treatment, and other emerging smart lifestyle categories. Dreame Australia and New Zealand head of marketing, Harold Xu said: “Dreame’s focus has always been on solving everyday household challenges through meaningful innovation, whether it’s reaching previously inaccessible areas, reducing manual cleaning effort or delivering smarter decision-making through advanced AI, our latest product line-up is designed to help consumers spend less time on chores and more time doing what matters most.”
X60 ULTRA EXTREME
Positioned as Dreame’s flagship robot vacuum launch, the X60 Ultra Extreme introduces a suite of industryleading technologies designed to maximise cleaning coverage throughout the home. At the core of the device are Dreame’s first Dual-Joint UltraExtend Arms, enabling the side brush to extend up to 12cm and the mop system to reach up to 18cm into corners, under furniture and along skirting boards.
AQUA20 ULTRA ROLLER
Joining the line-up is the Aqua20 Ultra Roller, engineered to deliver deeper floor cleaning through the combination of steam, hot water and intelligent roller technology. The device utilises 180°C hightemperature steam and hot water to help remove stubborn dirt, grease and everyday household messes while remaining suitable for sealed hard flooring surfaces. An extending roller mop reaches into corners and narrow spaces, while proactive dirt detection helps identify and address hidden messes. 22
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The Aqua20 Pro Ultra Roller X Complete was recognised in the Smart Home category of the IFA Innovation Awards, while the X60 Pro Ultra Complete received recognition in the Home Appliances category.
EXPANSION OF T16 SERIES
Also showcased at IFA 2026 were the latest additions to Dreame’s wet and dry vacuum portfolio. Recently launched in Australia and New Zealand, the T16 Pro TriForce harnesses three powerful water-driven technologies: 200°C steam sterilisation, 90°C hot-water degreasing and rich-foam deodorisation, to deliver a deeper, more hygienic clean. Combined with powerful suction, intelligent surface recognition and advanced anti-tangle technology, it simplifies everyday floorcare, tackling dirt, grease and odours in a single glide. Additional showcased innovations included products across beauty, lawn care, air treatment and window-cleaning categories.
TOP LEFT: Dreame was the first brand to launch a robot vacuum with 180 degrees of core steam. TOP RIGHT: Patrick Wang, Ash Khosla and Harold Xu from Dreame Australia. BELOW: Dreame doubled the size of its presence at IFA 2026 with two halls this year.
AR NEWS
ECOVACS brings robotics to more of everyday life ECOVACS has been named the global number one home robotics brand in a newly released research report by Forbes China, which recognises its leadership across multiple home robotics categories. Built on in-house R&D and manufacturing capabilities and scalable technology stacks, the company has expanded from floorcare to windows, lawns, and pools, with its service robotics now serving more than 38 million households across nearly 180 markets worldwide. “The future of home robotics is not about adding more products. It is about giving people more freedom from everyday tasks,” ECOVACS ROBOTICS CEO, David Qian said. “By reusing around 80% of our core technologies and adapting 20% to each scenario, we can bring robotics from floors and windows to lawns and pools. Looking ahead, we will continue to innovate to make robotics more intelligent, autonomous and accessible, helping more people enjoy an easier everyday life.” For ECOVACS, the vision of ‘Robotics for All’ means bringing the benefits of service robotics into more parts of everyday life. Since pioneering the robotic window cleaning category with its first WINBOT in 2011, ECOVACS has continuously evolved its robotics to address real consumer needs. The latest WINBOT W3 OMNI, showcased at IFA 2026, features Vortex Wash, an industry-first automatic wiping-pad cleaning technology that eliminates the need to manually wash dirty pads. With more than 1.5 million households worldwide using WINBOT products, ECOVACS ranks number one globally in category shipments, according to IDC.
Karen Powell and Dave Wu from ECOVACS.
Signage on the ECOVACS booth highlighted key statistics about its product portfolio.
The new ECOVACS ULTRAMARINE L1 PRO autonomously navigates and cleans different pool environments.
The ECOVACS DEEBOT robot vacuum range, including the new DEEBOT X12S OmniCyclone (top centre), were shown on the ECOVACS booth.
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The same idea extends outdoors with ECOVACS showcasing the GOAT T Series at IFA 2026. Featuring a TruEdge Trimmer, the lawn mower is designed to cut closely along lawn borders, while the industry-exclusive HoloScope 360 Dual-LiDAR Navigation help it handle different yard layouts with greater autonomy. To date, GOAT robotic lawn mowers have covered nearly 1.4 billion square metres of lawn globally – equivalent to around 200,000 standard soccer pitches. In floorcare, ECOVACS pioneered OZMO ROLLER technology to tackle stubborn messes without spreading dirt back across the floor. Featured on the DEEBOT X12S OmniCyclone at IFA 2026, the latest OZMO ROLLER 3.0 combines strong cleaning pressure with continuous self-washing to keep the roller clean as it operates. Since its global introduction in September 2024, OZMO ROLLER-equipped models have reached more than 2.8 million units in cumulative global shipments as of July 2026, according to ECOVACS’ internal data. Building on its expertise across floor, window and lawn care, ECOVACS is extending the robotics experience to pool cleaning. Showcased at IFA 2026, the ULTRAMARINE L1 PRO autonomously navigates and cleans different pool environments with minimal user intervention.
AR NEWS
iRobot returns with Roomba Duo 2-in-1 robotic floorcare system
ABOVE: The new Roomba robot vacuum line-up was presented on the iRobot booth. BELOW LEFT: The Roomba Duo was the first to simultaneously introduce steam cleaning and the concept of two separate machines. BELOW RIGHT: Emma Basquille, Robert Backwell and Chris Dickins from IXL Home.
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iRobot returned to IFA 2026 after seven years with a unique new product that features two robotic vacuum cleaners in the same product. The Roomba Duo, while still a prototype, created considerable interest among competing robotics as it was the first company to simultaneously introduce steam cleaning and the concept of two separate machines. “We were delighted to witness iRobot’s comeback at IFA 2026 after a seven-year hiatus. The event signifies the beginning of an exciting new chapter not only for iRobot but for IXL Home also,” iRobot senior brand manager, Emma Basquille said. “The booth became the stage to unveil the Roomba Duo concept model, to launch of the new flagship model, Roomba Max 875 and to showcase Roomba Plus 675 and 575. “The Roomba Duo concept represents a significant step forward in how iRobot is reimaging automated floor care. Instead of expecting one robot to do everything, the Roomba Duo has two specialised robots that work together as a single smart system. “For years, consumers have had to choose between the convenience of robot vacuum combo
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and deep-cleaning performance of manual mopping. With the Roomba Duo, both capabilities have been brought together in one intelligent system. “The 2-in-1 design is exciting as it enables comprehensive cleaning throughout the home. The main unit is designed to attack larger open spaces with powerful vacuuming and floor mopping while the companion robot reaches into tight spaces and under furniture. Together they deliver a level of coverage and smart cleaning unavailable with traditional combo robot vacuums. “The steam functionality addresses increasing expectation by consumers for more effective cleaning with less manual effort. The controlled steam loosens dried in messes or stubborn grime before the real mopping starts. Then the larger roller mop head applies about 5kg of pressure ensuring a deeper clean. A hot air dryer behind the roller mop protects wooden floors from moisture damage. “The Roomba Duo reflects iRobot’s continued commitment to solving consumer pain points through thoughtful design and intelligent technology. A smarter, more effective cleaning experience gives consumers greater confidence that every inch of the floor is being cared for,” she said.
AR NEWS
The new TCL SuperDrum Ultra Tower features an AI Wash feature to detect load size, fabric type and dirt level, then automatically adjusts water, temperature, detergent dosage and wash time.
TCL TVs offer Google TV with Gemini.
TCL presents new fridges, washers and air-conditioners Under the theme ‘AI Inspired Life’, TCL’s Inspiration Habitat brought together its newest products in refrigeration, laundry, air-conditioning, TVs, soundbars, wearables and more, and showed how they form part of a connected technology ecosystem.
REFRIGERATION
Making its debut, the TCL Dual Cooling Fridge features a DualCooling System that uses two independent cooling circuits to fully separate airflow between the refrigerator and freezer, preventing odour transfer and helping food retain its original taste. The fridge is equipped with a Humidity Zone Drawer with an adjustable temperature to keep produce crisp, while the freezer stays dry to help reduce frost build-up. For added flexibility, the Convertible Zone uses TCL’s AI Smart Precise Temperature Control and can be adjusted from 5°C to -20°C via the electronic panel. An automatic ice maker and inner water dispenser are also included.
LAUNDRY
In addition to a 540mm extra-large, wave-pattern drum and six bionic lifters, the new TCL P9 AI SuperDrum Ultra Tower features an AI Wash feature that uses intelligent sensing to detect load size, fabric type and dirt level, then automatically adjusts water, temperature, detergent dosage and wash time. For drying, a high-efficiency heat pump system with triple inverter technology delivers improved energy efficiency. The new TCL P5 Super Drum Series washing machine also incorporates
a 540mm Super Drum with advanced mechanical design. With jetBubble technology, the machine mixes detergent with water and air to create a dense foam that deeply penetrates fabrics for faster, more effective cleaning. Its autoStain Removal system effectively removes various stains in a single load.
AIR-CONDITIONING
Rounding out its home appliance showcase, TCL presented its VoxIN and FreshIN 3.0 air-conditioning solutions. VoxIN, TCL’s new-generation voice-controlled air conditioner is a step forward in hands-free comfort. It also integrates advanced T-AI energy-saving technology and Gentle Breeze, delivering efficient cooling without direct wind. The FreshIN 3.0 features highperformance filters and real-time air-quality monitoring to purify indoor air and remove odours. Equipped with a Quadruple Noise Reduction System, it operates quietly, as low as 16dB. FreshIN 3.0 and VoxIN both support offline voice control for hands-free operation, responding instantly without an internet connection.
SOUNDBARS
TCL’s new Q Series soundbar delivers immersive audio, automatic room calibration and straightforward connectivity to match the sound with the scale of big screen TVs. The flagship Q95K Soundbar combines a soundbar, wireless subwoofer and rear speakers in one package. Its 11.1.4-channel configuration uses 22 drivers to place sound in front of, beside, behind and above the viewer with compatible Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content extending sound into the room. The Q95K delivers up to 1,420W of maximum audio power and the wireless subwoofer uses two 7-inch drivers, helping produce deep, controlled bass.
WEARABLES
TCL’s latest eyewear innovations, the RayNeo iO Smart Glasses integrate a powerful AI Assistant into everyday glasses that are just 0.6mm thick. Alongside, the RayNeo GT Max AR Glasses are the world’s first Dolby Vision certified AR glasses, featuring an ultra-wide field of view with vivid colours and lifelike visuals.
TVS The RayNeo iO Smart Glasses integrate a powerful AI Assistant and the RayNeo GT Max AR Glasses are the world’s first Dolby Vision certified AR glasses.
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TCL also exhibited its 2026 TV portfolio, including the flagship X11L, C8L and C7L SQD-Mini LED TVs, the designled A400 Pro NXTVISION TV, alongside the ultra-slim A65K soundbar and the flexible Z100 Wireless Free Sound Speaker.
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EZVIZ unveils industry-first smart home products EZVIZ announced several new “We are not an e-commerce business products that will include a number of trying to adapt our strategy locally to industry firsts for the Australian smart be an offline retail brand. In Australia, home technology market. Among the we have partnered with JB Hi-Fi and new categories introduced are new Harvey Norman, and in New Zealand, gate opening technology that will be Noel Leeming and Harvey Norman. the first of its kind in Australia, as well “We have one app because we as camera systems that can replace manufacture all of our own products ‘peepholes’ in apartments providing in our own factories and the advantage a security option for customers who of that means we need to use the apps have previously been unable to make from third-party factories into our EZVIZ will introduce a new category in the Australian permanent changes to their property. market with three gate opening products. ecosystem – it is all encompassing and EZVIZ country manager, Jock all-in-one and all in-house.” Jones has shared the company’s goal for this year. “We are not shy EZVIZ will be introducing three products in a new product about our objectives in the Australian market for the second half category into the Australian market – electronic peephole cameras. of the 2026 calendar year, and that is to be number two in market “Most apartments have an optical peephole that can be retrofitted share,” he said. with this new product that looks identical to a traditional peephole “We are already the world’s number one smart camera brand without any drilling or anything that will impact a renter or owner globally in 2024 and 2025, according to IDC data. We have sold from a body corporate point of the view. There is also a model 360 million cameras worldwide with over 100 million active available with a doorbell feature as well,” Jones said. accounts. When a consumer buys their first product and activates Among the products confirmed is a new range of three electric their account for the first time, within 44 days they purchase gate openers that can be fitted to new gates or retrofitted to an their second product. existing gate. The sliding gate opener was introduced into Europe “When we say that our ecosystem is the biggest in the market, last year and at IFA 2026, EZVIZ launched two new products we are talking about products from the front gate to the back for a one-arm swinging gate opener and dual-arm swinging gate fence. Our go-to-market strategy is bricks-and-mortar retailers. opener. All three products will debut in Australia.
AR NEWS
Anker confirms transition to single brand entity Anker Innovations confirmed that it will unify its business units under the single brand name – Anker – after 15 years in the market. As a result, brands including Eufy, Soundcore and SOLIX will be rebranded under the overarching Anker brand. In Australia, this will mean temporary branding under a combined Anker Eufy brand for products including robotic vacuum cleaners and home camera systems. Since being established in 2011, Anker has grown from a charging company into a global consumer technology company. Along the way it built dedicated brands to move faster in distinct categories: Anker for charging, eufy for smart home, Soundcore for audio and entertainment, SOLIX for energy and eufyMake for creative tools. According to Anker Innovations, CEO Steven Yang, part of the reason for the re-branding exercise has been the rise of AI, robotics, local computing and connected systems that has resulted in the evaporation of the boundaries between the brand identities. “Category brands made sense when categories were separate. They no longer are,” Yang said. “One brand, one promise – Ultimate Innovation, now unified across everything we make.” Recently appointed Anker PR and brand communications manager for ANZ, Kleo Mantzouranis, told Appliance Retailer this is an inflection point for the business. “This is a pivotal moment for the Anker brand and the integration of all brands under Anker is very important as it takes all of the hard work we have done over the past 15 years and integrates it under one umbrella brand to use its resources to support every category. “We would like to emphasise that this will be a gradual multi-year transition particularly for wellknown brands such as Eufy which will be dual branded Anker Eufy during the transition as new products are released to the market over the coming months.” A single brand will also assist with marketing just the Anker brand – rather than multiple brands – with the business consolidating products into two categories Anker For You and Anker For Home. 30
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New products within the Anker For You category include Anker Soundcore AeroClip 2 Pro open-ear clip on ear buds, Space 2 Pro over-ear headphones, Liberty Buds 2 in-ear earbuds, Sleep 4 and Sleep 4 Pro sleep earbuds, SleepLab and SleepLab Pro sleep-focused bedside speakers, Anker MagGo Power Bank 2 Pro magnetic power bank and Anker Laptop Charger Pro. New products within the Anker For Home category include the Anker MindBase local AI hub with 48TB of storage that connects devices and stores data, which also works with security products including the Anker eufy TrackLight Cam S1 featuring an auto tracking light and 4K telephoto camera; Video Doorbell S4 with 180-degree panoramic view as well as the Smart Security Shield that uses 180-degree dual-radar to detect strangers and also identify friends and family. “In robotics, the Anker eufy Omni E35 robot vacuum was launched with a long-lasting 35,000Pa suction power. Built to baby-grade standards for bacterial elimination, it comes equipped with the HydroJet 2.0 self-cleaning roller mop.” Also launched was the company’s first robotic lawn mower – S2 Max – with true edge-to-edge cutting capabilities and an automatic extendable cutting arm.
TOP LEFT: The Sleep Earbuds 4 Pro claim to be the world’s smartest sleep earbuds. TOP RIGHT: All products have been unified under the overarching Anker brand. BELOW: The Anker Home product range includes the launch of a lawn mower.
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Bosch highlights new washer-dryer and stick vacuum Bosch Vice President Electric Retail Germany, with a sleek Dark Inox handle made of 85% Christoph Luis said that it is focusing heavily recycled materials. Luis also revealed Bosch on practical, robust solutions that ease the holds over 20,000 patents. daily grind, while delivering quality. Luis introduced the new ‘tested to last 20 “Quality means robust materials, technical years’ Series 8 Heat Pump Washer-Dryer, precision, and intuitive operation,” Luis said. built to handle everything from baby clothes “It means quality that remains.” to student laundry. For energy-conscious In following this goal beyond the point Australian retailers, the machine is a major of sale, Bosch is also rolling out ‘Q Trust’, talking point, boasting a considerable 55% which it calls the world’s first digital quality energy saving and a 20L water reduction certificate. The feature allows users to run a compared to conventional condenser units. Robert Warner and Roberto Finamore from BSH with the new Series 8 Washer Dryer. comprehensive system self-test via the Home Bosch also showed off the OneFlow Connect app, verifying key components to wet-and-dry stick vacuum cleaner, which verify the appliance’s health. It represents benefits for owners, but combines vacuuming and mopping in a single step, cleaning also potential benefits for the secondhand resale market. up to 150m² of floor space on a single battery charge. Luis said It also briefly highlighted its ecological efforts, with Bosch it features a foot-operated self-cleaning and drying cycle to expanding its carbon-reduced Green Collection to ovens, finished eliminate manual maintenance.
Siemens further invests in product intelligence The message from Siemens was clear: the brand is competing on advanced technology to support, or even enrich, daily life. Vice President of Kitchen Retail in Germany, Ulrike Pesta, delivered updates on the Siemens brand and range. According to Siemens data, more than 50% of consumers rank convenience as their highest requirement for their appliances. Pesta noted that “AI-supported personalisation is considered the next stage of development,” for products that “think with you”. “When we talk about intelligence at Siemens, we are of course also talking about artificial intelligence, but never for its own sake...we are talking about raising experiences to the next level with better results.” While the iQ700 oven is not an established product, Siemens has expanded its abilities to more than 100 dishes. Starting in 2026, the company has made it possible, for the first time, to create one’s own dishes. “Whether it is lasagna like at your favourite Italian restaurant, apple pie grandma’s way, or Sunday roast, all these personal favorite and family recipes can be recognised and automatically prepared by the Siemens oven. And the next time you cook that dish again, the oven remembers these favorites and automatically starts the preparation,” Pesta said. In laundry, the new iQ700 washerdryer handles an 11kg wash and a 7kg
dry cycle. Using heat pump technology for drying, and therefore achieving high energy efficiency classifications, the unit also automatically removes lint and cleans itself, maintaining its peak energy-efficiency class over time. i-Dos Automatic Dosing means refills are only required every 20 wash cycles, with exact dosing for optimal washing, reducing rinse cycles. Siemens is further offering a new iconicEdition option for the iQ700, adding high-end design with glass-like materials, said to be an industry first, with highgloss blacks, a touchscreen, more smart technology and voice control via Home Connect or Alexa. Another example of sophisticated AI in a useful function is with the Siemens’ new coffee machine. Coffee lovers can now talk directly to the EQ600 iAroma and the fully automatic coffee maker using natural language. Powered by Amazon’s Alexa+, users can ask for their exact beverage preferences without navigating rigid menus. Pesta confirmed this function would roll out to existing devices as well, saying, “We are consciously thinking about this development long-term and will make the technology available for existing devices via an update, and gradually integrate it into new product categories.” Siemens has previously only offered its iQ700 Built-In Fully Automatic Coffee Machine in Australia.
ABOVE: The Siemens booth presented a range of new innovations across categories including cooking, laundry, coffee and benchtop appliances.
ABOVE: While the Siemens iQ700 oven is not an established product, the company has expanded its abilities to more than 100 dishes, as well as making it possible to create one’s own dishes. www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Miele launches new dishwasher with integrated camera Miele wants to end housework, or at least the decision-making that goes with it. Miele framed its entire showcase around a single number: 100. According to Miele, that’s the estimated fictional number of daily decisions we make just managing chores. Its new lineup aims to reduce that mental load to absolute zero, while acknowledging that its newest products are just a step. The showstopper was the Miele G8 Diamond dishwasher. Equipped with an integrated camera called Autovision, the G8 scans the tub when the door shuts, using AI models to identify the load. It distinguishes delicate wine glasses from greasy pots and automatically adjusts the wash cycle and detergent dosage via the system Miele calls Autodos with PowerDisk. For drying, a new heated air system called Excellent Dry ensures plastics are actually dry. Cooking got a major boost with Culinary Coach, an AI assistant in the Miele app. Users can text, talk, or upload a photo of a hand-written recipe card, and the app instantly beams the exact temperature and timers straight to the Miele oven. In laundry, Miele expanded its W2 and T2 ranges. The head-turner was Cary, a futuristic concept study that removes user settings entirely. Laundry is reduced to just two actions: load the clothes and press start. The machine uses optical and electromechanical sensors combined with AI to identify fabric types and colours, automatically selecting the cycle and mixing the ‘perfect’ detergent ratio via TwinDos, a shift toward autonomous washing. The Miele press conference ended with a traditional Q&A session, and Appliance Retailer asked the board who Miele is working with in AI, and if the company is using its own data or something that comes from partners. Miele executive director, Dr. Markus Miele responded while not being drawn on exact models, saying the data being used is proprietary, and “our knowledge,” while adding that models are evolving and it is not working with a set model, but adapting as new models continue to emerge. 32
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“The most important thing,” he explained, “is what’s called domain knowledge. Who knows a lot about cooking? That’s us. That’s the recipes. We know exactly what the oven is doing. We know exact temperatures. It’s not so much about the models you use in the background.” In response to a question about Miele considering adding built-in batteries or energy storage within an appliance to more smartly consume energy, the answers were more direct. “It’s crucial to look at how much energy do people consume while using an appliance. We know from our data that today only a very, very small percentage of consumers use the highly efficient eco-program in daily use,” Miele executive director – marketing and sales, Dr. Axel Kniehl said. “If people used this program only twice as often as they do today, it would already compensate for the entire CO2 consumption generated during the production of the appliance. That’s why we try to direct attention via the app and direct guidance toward how to save energy in everyday life. That is the approach we are pursuing here.”
TOP LEFT: Miele’s laundry concept, Cary, shows how laundry care could become even easier in the future. TOP RIGHT: Miele AutoVision detects the dishwasher load using image processing and AI-based recognition models, while the integrated camera detects the load level and different types of dishes. ABOVE: Miele executive directors and coproprietors, Dr. Markus Miele and Dr. Reinhard Zinkann with Miele executive director – sales and marketing Dr. Axel Kniehl present the company’s new products.
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Haier reveals sports-centric global strategy Haier has stepped up to sponsor the leading club competition in the world, the UEFA Champions League. Ruud Gullit, Champions League winner and named by FIFA as one of the Top 125 greatest living footballers, was on hand with a replica Champions League trophy under the spotlight. Haier’s event focused on the tagline – ‘Play With The Number Ones’ – as part of its sponsorship ambitions that cross football, tennis (including the Australian Open), cricket, and more. Getting to latest connected appliances, Haier Europe CEO, Neil Tunstall opened the show, digging into Haier’s growth and category leadership. Tunstall made opening remarks noting the brand’s 17-year consecutive run being ranked the number one Global Major Appliances Brand, as well as the world’s top smart home enterprise, as ranked by Euromonitor. “Haier has been recognised as the world’s number one home appliance brand powered by our unique philosophy of zero distance to consumers,” Tunstall said. “I’m also delighted to share that Haier has also been recognised now as the world’s number one smart-home enterprise as we have moved from products to ecosystems and from functions to experiences in Europe.” He also revealed Haier’s market share has grown by four times from 2018 to the first half of 2026. He also announced 13 billion Euros would be spent on R&D across a five-year cycle, and reconfirmed the emissions targets the brand set for 2030, including a 50% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions from operations. In laundry, Haier continued to advance its AI Vision Sense with its Haier Vision 15 washing machine, first announced
Haier Europe CEO, Neil Tunstall presenting the company’s ‘Play With The Number Ones’ campaign.
in 2025. The integrated camera on the door detects laundry quantity, alerts for mixed colours, monitors suds levels and can check for forgotten socks in the drum. A new Maestro refrigerator prototype was the Seeker, which features an AI Defrost Zone drawer that gently thaws meat or fish in just 30 minutes, with Haier saying it wouldn’t ruin the texture or nutrients. It has a full seven doors and nine separate compartments, including a NutriBank drawer, promising to keep fresh meat preserved for up to 10 days and fish for up to seven days without freezing. Introduced in June, Haier’s ID Series 6 Ovens were on show with AI Vision, via an internal camera that recognises what you are cooking and automatically stops the heat once food is perfectly cooked.
Roborock debuts its first pool cleaner Roborock is heading beyond the living room floor as it grows its presence across categories. For Australians, there is one major headline: the brand’s first cordless pool cleaning robot, the Roborock Aqua P1, is coming just in time for summer. Roborock is using its navigation expertise from its indoor robots into deeper water, with its Aqua P1 cordless pool robot designed to automate pool maintenance from deep floors all the way up to the waterline. Aside from strong suction specs and dual-filters, it can handle shallow-water, tackling areas as shallow as 50cm, and cleaning shallow platforms down to 15cm.
The Roborock booth garnered a lot of attention from attendees.
Roborock now has a robotic lawn mower, the Neo Q2, featuring Centisphere 360-degree LiDAR and dual-camera vision. It operates without antenna set-ups or boundary cables or beacons, and includes a Wi-Fi amplifier. Roborock’s Saros series received a range of new features. The new top-of-the-line roller-mop flagship is the Roborock Saros 20 Flow Complete, now at 36,000Pa suction power to lift deep dirt from carpets, along with a retractable LiDAR system, hands-free dock free with 100°C pressurised hot water mop washing and auto-dispensing cleaning solutions.
Roborock debuted its first cordless pool cleaning robot, the Roborock Aqua P1, coming to Australia just in time for summer.
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LG delivers new products in every major category
LG has re-launched the Wallpaper TV with OLED panels in 77-inch and 83-inch sizes that will also form part of the new premium Signature Appliances range.
SIGNATURE APPLIANCES & COOKING
LG will re-launch its Signature Appliances brand as a premium extension for a range of products. Previously launched in Australia in 2017, Signature Appliances then featured just four super premium products. In 2026, the brand will mean more than just about having a halo product in each category.
TV
Speaking of Signature Appliances, the 65-inch Wallpaper OLED TV that was previously included in the LG Signature range has been reborn in as a 9mm product. Available now in 77-inch and 83inch sizes, but what consumers have given away in thickness, they have received in functionality. The new Wallpaper TV evo W6 is an OLED panel only 9.9mm thick and requires no connections (apart from a power cord) with everything wirelessly transmitted from the Zero Connect Box. Also on display was a range of RGB LCD TVs for customers wanting a bigger and brighter panel. The StanByMe TV has been expanded to now have a 32-inch product with four-hour battery life in the range as well as the 27-inch model.
After several years of development, LG has brought new dishwasher models to the market with enhanced features allowing it to break through the $2,000 price point for the first time in Australia.
AIRDEW HAIRDRYERS
LG has entered the hair drying category with products focusing on the USP of protecting hair from heat damage. Using patented Airfluidics technology to create multi-dimensional airflow combined with AirGlide brush effect to retain moisture and minimise heat exposure. The weight of the product is comparable to a cup of coffee and it comes with a rotating plug for easier connection.
REFRIGERATION
One of the new battlegrounds in refrigeration is the zero-clearance feature and LG has come to play with the new Fit & Max French Door product. The objective for the brand is to ‘Fit’ in the space and ‘Max’ the space inside. Opening up with 110-degree door clearance while still sitting flush alongside cabinetry. LG delivers a 6.8-inch LCD display and flexible refrigeration and freezing configurations.
LG SOUND SUITE
The world’s first soundbar audio system with Dolby Atmost FlexConnect uses Wi-Fi connectivity to calibrate speakers regardless of where they are placed. Products in the range, including the H7, feature eight full range drivers, four subwoofers and eight passive radiators. 34
Ben Melia demonstrates one of the new ovens in the re-launched Signature Appliances range that will enhance LG’s growing reputation in cooking.
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
LAUNDRY
The WashTower continues to be an important platform for LG in the laundry category, with capacity for its washerdryers increasing from 16kg to 20kg in the 27-inch cabinet size. The 16kg laundry products would now be available in a 25-inch footprint and the company announced the first heat-pump washer dryer in a standard 24-inch footprint. The key selling feature continues to be AI Wash to deliver the most economical energy and water consumption.
DISHWASHERS
After several years of development, LG will release a new range of freestanding and integrated dishwashers to the market that will exceed the $2,000 price point for the first time. Building on its reputation as a manufacturer of dishwashers using steam, the company has introduced autodose for the first time as well as bottle wash in the upper basket. A unique feature is the introduction of Dynamic Heat Dry which utilises a cartridge of silica crystals on the bottom of the machine in the back left corner that heat up during the cycle and help speed up the washing and drying process and eliminating another heating element – delivering an impressive one-hour wash and dry cycle. QuadWash Pro uses micro-bubbles to help detergent penetrate food residue and AI SenseClean uses a turbidity sensor to detect the load adjusting water temperature, detergent and cycle length.
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MOVA unveiled 22 global product debuts and 15 innovative technologies in smart outdoor, home cleaning, smart kitchen, pet care, and embodied AI.
Kattie Lu and Peter Michael from MOVA by Dreame Group.
MOVA takes AI to the next level with 22 new products released MOVA unveiled 22 global product debuts and 15 innovative technologies in smart outdoor, home cleaning, smart kitchen, pet care, and embodied AI, presented across more than 1,700 square meters of exhibition space.
STARTING WITH PERCEPTION
MOVA showcased new sensing and interaction technologies that reshape how robots perceive and connect with the world around them. The TactiPercept System introduces touch into a robot vacuum’s perception system. Combining visual recognition with tactile sensing, it uses 128 pressure sensors, a flexible cushioning structure, and real-time pressure feedback to detect contact with furniture, walls, and other surroundings. The robot can then adjust its movement and cleaning strategy in real time. For its pool cleaner robots, MOVA’s upgraded AquaSonar Underwater Communication System uses ultrasonic communication to maintain connectivity underwater. The relay is integrated directly into the dock, eliminating the need for a separate floating communication buoy. This allows the robot to stay connected while operating underwater, so users can check its status and access relevant controls with a simpler setup.
ADVANCING PRECISION
Robotic lawn mowers can automate most of the mowing, but the final edges often still require manual work, which is why MOVA is introducing its latest UltraTrim edge-trimming technology. LiDAX Ultra Gen 2 features UltraTrim 3.0, with a dedicated edge-cutting disc on the right side that delivers 0cm edge-gap trimming along walls, fences, and hedges. Designed for the next generation of MOVA robotic lawn mowers, UltraTrim 4.0 takes a more adaptive approach. While also delivering 0cm edge-gap trimming, it introduces an adaptive robotic edging arm that extends beyond the mower body.
THE NEXT LEAP IN EMBODIED AI
In the garden, MOVA brings robotic manipulation to AstraX. Equipped with a multi-functional arm and interchangeable tool heads, the robotic lawn mower can go beyond mowing to handle tasks such as obstacle removal, fruit picking, and watering. Knot 80 takes the idea of robotic manipulation further, combining a humanoid-inspired robotic arm with 3D spatial perception and intelligent grasp control, featuring 11 degrees of freedom and 15 articulated joints.
AEG announces two world premieres led by OnePot Pasta hob AEG, part of the Electrolux Group, revealed a new consumer motif dubbed: ‘The Art of Hosting’. Backed by new research showing that 70% of Europeans believe “the best hosts do things their own way” rather than following conventions, the concept aims to help hosts and home chefs create something special for dinner guests, by simplifying cooking. AEG announced a world premiere of the AEG 7000 Series OnePot Pasta hob, with a demonstration by twoMichelin-star chef, Italian Davide Oldan, invoking his mother’s recipes with a simple pasta dish cooked al dente on the cooktop, prepared with spiral pasta, zucchinis, saffroninfused water, olive oil, breadcrumbs,
and Grana Padano. The OnePot Pasta hob doesn’t have moving parts. The induction cooking style has temperature controls and sensors to control the cooking, promising a meal in 15 minutes. Also making its debut at IFA was the AEG ErgoMini handheld vacuum cleaner designed with cyclonic technology. Weighing 550 grams, the compact device has two modes of power and AEG said it “delivers up to 100% dust pick-up”. On stage, the ErgoMini capably vacuumed up a range of debris that could’ve come from a messy breakfast with children, and also capably inflated balloons, showing the relative power from the small device.
AEG announced a world premiere of the AEG 7000 Series OnePot Pasta hob.
www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Mark Meldrum (e&s), Matt Evans (Residentia), Tony Carrier (Narta) and Luisa Evans (Residentia).
Matt Evans from Residentia and Andrew Dean from Spartan inspect the new Italian-made Omega barbecue.
Midea Residentia Australia introduces new Omega wine and cooking products
Matt Evans (Residentia), Darren Spencer (Narta), Andrew Dean (Spartan), Mike Jeffrey (RetraVision), Nicholas Cary (Residentia), Peter Harris (Bing Lee), Ben Miller (Bing Lee) and Tristan Ansley (Bi-Rite).
Roy Lee (Narta), Dan Duggan (BSR), Gavin Carter (BSR), Emma Beitz (BSR) and Kelly Gray (Residentia).
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Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Midea Residentia Australia has introduced Narta retailers to one of the industry’s largest wine refrigeration concepts at an intimate event held in Berlin during IFA 2026. The event, held within a former brewery in the fashionable Viktoria-Quartier precinct, introduced a range of new products from the Omega business that has recently entered into a joint venture with Midea. The highlight of the event was the unveiling of The Wine Gallery by Omega which was accompanied by a wine tasting from premium Italian winery Marchesi Antinori from Tuscany. “The Wine Gallery by Omega is a made-to-order customisable wine service and storage centre,” Midea Residentia Australia creative director, Nicholas Cary told Appliance Retailer at the event. “The Wine Gallery is created in quadrants – the top two quadrants have six different options and the bottom two units have another six different options that can be kept the same or mixed and matched with everything from standard racking to magnum cradles. In terms of customisation, there are literally hundreds of potential finishes available for aspects such as the outside frame, the inside frame, the glass and other details. “To assist retailers and customers in-store, we have an inhouse custom configurator for The Wine Gallery. This is an online virtual platform that we have built to allow floor staff to take their customers through the journey and build a wine gallery that is perfect for their home. “We are very excited to take the Omega brand into a unique and new space that no one else is offering in the retail market,” Cary said. Omega also displayed a new Italian-made barbecue concept with marine grade stainless steel, as well as a number of freestanding cookers including a 90cm model with Nightfall matte black finish featuring an induction cooktop and market leading steam cleaning system.
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IFA GALLERY
Appliance Retailer joined a number of Australian retailers and suppliers at IFA 2026 in Berlin, Germany.
1
2 1. C hris Healey (Arisit), Tim Gaedtke (Arisit), Chris Kusz (Medivon), George Karlovasitis (Harvey Norman), Carly Scott (Harvey Norman), Magdalena Krajewska (Medivon) and Adam Mills (Arisit).
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2. I ain Tennant (Harvey Norman), Leigh Hardingham (Miele), Chris Coen (Harvey Norman), Haydon Myers (Harvey Norman), Yves Dalcourt (Miele), Carly Scott (Harvey Norman), George Karlovasitis (Harvey Norman), Lisa Saunders (Miele) and Geoff Dalziel (Miele). 3. C hris Mayer, Cory Foster and Todd Xu from Hisense. 4. D an Kay (LG NZ) and John Heathcote (Heathcote Appliances NZ). 5. J ason Carrick and Rob Ordresson from TCL enjoying a movie trying out the new NXTWEAR smart glasses. 6. D avid Hocking (Directed Electronics), Jock Jones (EZVIZ) and David Liu (Directed Electronics).
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6 www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Tania Garonzi (The Good Guys), Patrick Wang (Dreame), Rod Korff (JB Hi-Fi), Harold Xu (Dreame), Darren Spencer (Narta) and Tony Carrier (Narta).
LG team (CS Yoon, Frank Malcaus and Ben Melia) with the three different sizes of WashTower in 24-inch, 25-inch and 27-inch configurations.
Josh Hall, Paul Segeström and Greg Calnon from ASKO.
George Arts (Dicker Data NZ), Jasmin Bishop (Harvey Norman NZ), Carene Myers (Harvey Norman NZ), Karen Powell (ECOVACS), Carly Scott (Harvey Norman) and George Karlovasitis (Harvey Norman).
Jamal Sands, Fily Wang and Warren Allison from CHiQ.
Greg Wilson and Tracey Ellis from The Good Guys.
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Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
FEATURE
Home Café MANUAL & FULLY AUTOMATIC COFFEE MACHINES
AutoLuxe Espresso Machine EAP8500BK
AR HOME CAFÉ
OUTLOOK
A market shaped by premiumisation and personalisation BY EMILY BENCIC Australia’s coffee machine market is growing, driven by premiumisation and changing consumer behaviour as households increasingly look to reproduce café-style coffee at home, while cost-of-living pressure is making the economics of brewing your own coffee more attractive. NielsenIQ’s Purchase Insights+ Coffee Machine research, published in September, reveals a market at an inflection point. While consumers remain highly valueconscious, they are simultaneously seeking elevated experiences, personalised solutions, and greater control over their daily coffee rituals. While replacement remains the single largest trigger, accounting for almost half (46%) of purchases, the category is increasingly fuelled by consumers looking to improve their coffee experience. Nearly half of recent buyers entered the market either as first-time coffee machine owners (25%) or as consumers seeking an upgrade (22%). Consumers are seeking machines that better align with their coffee preferences, deliver authentic café-style coffee at home, offer greater functionality, and complement modern kitchen aesthetics. The NIQ research shows that nine in 10 buyers undertake some form of pre-purchase research, making
coffee machines one of the most researched appliance categories. Consumers are engaging in comparison, evaluation, and education before committing to a purchase. Online browsing sits at the centre of this journey. Nearly half of consumers are exposed to digital information prior to purchase, and many spend days, or even weeks, researching before making a decision. Price remains influential, but consumers are equally focused on understanding functionality, comparing features, reading reviews, and evaluating different models and brands. Almost two-thirds of coffee machines are still purchased in-store, demonstrating that physical retail continues to play a vital role in the category. Traditionally, retailers were valued for access and distribution. Today, they are equally valued for reassurance. Consumers gravitate towards retailers that offer competitive pricing, trusted environments, product variety, strong stock availability, and access to reputable brands. In store, promotions, displays, product demonstrations, and knowledgeable staff help build confidence. Online, consumers rely on detailed specifications, product videos, reviews, retailer websites, and exclusive offers to narrow down their options.
Café quality espresso, made simple
HOME CAFÉ AR
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Ultimately, café-quality coffee remains the foundation, but ease of use, versatility and the overall experience are becoming increasingly important drivers of choice.
SUNBEAM
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Niall O’Reilly Head of Sales – Appliances Sunbeam has seen Australians’ expectations of coffee at home continue to evolve. While café quality remains important, consumers also want a machine that offers convenience and fits naturally into their lifestyle. “As consumers become more knowledgeable and confident about coffee, we’re seeing different needs emerge across the category. For some, it’s about taking the next step beyond capsules and investing in their first espresso machine, giving them greater control over the coffeemaking experience. For others, particularly more experienced coffee drinkers, expectations are shifting towards automation, personalisation and a broader menu of café-style beverages at the touch of a button,” Niall O’Reilly said. “This is continuing to broaden the opportunity within the coffee category. Rather than a onesize-fits-all approach, consumers are looking for solutions that match their level of involvement. Ultimately, café-quality coffee remains the foundation, but ease of use, versatility and the overall experience are becoming increasingly important drivers of choice.” More consumers are wanting features with an immediately understandable benefit.
Sunbeam Origins AutoLuxe Fully Auto Espresso Machine EAP8500BK
`More than 200 hot and cold drink combinations `Two interchangeable 220g EasySwitch bean hoppers to change from decaf to Arabica or Robusta beans `Four customisable ‘My Way’ user profiles to save favourite drinks `Hot and cold milk functionality with variable froth levels and easy-refill milk `Dishwasher-safe milk tank and drip tray for easier cleaning RRP: $1,099
“For someone entering espresso, that can mean fast heat-up, simple controls, a compact footprint, and the ability to make both hot and cold coffee.
EMP2000BK
EMM4500BK
EMM5500BK
EMM7300SS
For a consumer moving into fully automatic coffee, personalisation and convenience become more important – such as saved drink profiles, automatic milk preparation and the ability to change between different beans.” As for O’Reilly’s advice to retailers: start with the customer rather than the specification sheet. “Ask how they drink coffee, how much involvement they want in making it, how much bench space they have and who else in the household will use the machine. “For someone curious about moving from capsules into espresso, a compact and intuitive machine such as the new PIXL can provide a more approachable entry point while still allowing them to learn and personalise their coffee. “For households who prioritise convenience or have several coffee drinkers with different preferences, a fully automatic machine such as AutoLuxe can make more sense, with one-touch drinks, saved profiles and the ability to switch beans. For hands-on coffee enthusiasts, traditional and integrated-grinder espresso machines offer greater involvement. Sunbeam’s existing range spans compact, integrated-grinder and dual thermoblock formats, reinforcing the importance of matching the machine to the customer’s desired experience.” AR
EAP8500BK
Learn more
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JURA
George Liakatos Managing Director The desire to recreate a café-quality coffee experience at home continues to be one of the strongest drivers of the category, according to JURA. It is no longer simply about convenience, but achieving genuine coffee quality and access to an increasingly diverse range of coffee specialities. “We also see this creating a natural progression within the category,” George Liakatos said. “Consumers who may initially enter at a more accessible price point often become more knowledgeable and discerning about coffee and, over time, look to upgrade to machines that offer greater quality, functionality and choice. As expectations continue to rise, we believe this will create further opportunities for premium products that can genuinely elevate the at-home coffee experience.” Following a more challenging period for discretionary spending, JURA is seeing encouraging signs of renewed strength at the premium end of the market, as consumers appear increasingly willing to invest where they can clearly see the benefits in quality, innovation, design and longevity. “This has been particularly evident for JURA with our recent new product introductions. Our latest flagship models, positioned at the most premium end of our range, have performed exceptionally well. This demonstrates that while value remains important, value does not necessarily mean the lowest price. There remains strong demand for premium appliances where consumers can understand and experience what differentiates them.” Ultimately, coffee quality remains the number one consideration. While consumers appreciate technology and additional functionality, the features that resonate most strongly are those that have a tangible impact on what ends up in the cup. “This is why we continue to see strong interest in innovations that optimise the grinding and brewing process, expand the variety of coffee specialities available and improve milk and milk-foam quality. At the same time, consumers increasingly expect this sophistication to be easy to use,” Liakatos said. “The challenge for manufacturers is to introduce meaningful innovation without adding unnecessary complexity – delivering greater personalisation and choice while making the overall experience more intuitive.” 42
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
JURA E10
`Hot brew, light brew, sweet foam and cold brew `Prepare 36 speciality coffees at the touch of a button `Coffee Timer programs coffee to be brewed up to 16 hours in advance with the J.O.E. app `Quality Assistant supports machine maintenance to optimise coffee quality, hygiene and machine longevity `P.A.G.2+ grinder characterised by consistent performance and a long service life RRP: $3,050
Continuous innovation in coffee quality will remain at the heart of JURA’s product development with recent innovations including the Coffee Timer, Caffeine Regulator and further enhancements to milk preparation, alongside improvements in functionality and ease of use. Over the next 12 months, retailers can expect this evolution to continue across its range. “We see significant opportunities to further enhance the preparation and personalisation of coffee specialities, particularly milk-based beverages, while also improving usability and making more efficient use of the physical footprint of the machine.” When helping consumers choose the right coffee machine, Liakatos said the most important starting point is to properly qualify the customer before recommending a machine. Retailers should understand the types of coffee they enjoy, how many coffees they prepare each day, the importance of milk-based specialities, available bench space, design preferences and the level of convenience and functionality they are seeking. “From there, the conversation can move beyond price alone and focus on overall value – coffee quality, ease of use, reliability, design and the features the customer will genuinely benefit from. Coffee machines remain an exciting and growing category and helping customers find the machine that best matches their individual needs is ultimately what will give them confidence in their investment.” AR
You don’t need a big machine to get big flavour
Hot and cold brew espresso, made simple
PIXL Espresso Machine EMP2000BK
AR HOME CAFÉ
Dreame Ecceluxe Slim FCM30
`18cm ultra-slim design suits modern kitchens and limited bench space `19-bar Golden Extraction designed for rich, consistent results `Nine-level precision grinder accommodates different beans and preferences `Automatic milk frothing prepares popular milk-based drinks `One-touch preparation and automatic cleaning RRP: $999
“The upgrade decision is therefore shifting from simply owning a coffee machine to enjoying a smarter, more convenient and more personalised coffee experience,” Xu said.
DREAME
Harold Xu Head of Marketing – ANZ Australians increasingly want to recreate premium out-of-home experiences with greater convenience, control and personalisation. As a result, the modern coffee machine is expected to deliver more than a basic cup of coffee. “For Dreame, this creates an opportunity to apply our technology-led approach to a new everyday category, with appliances that deliver consistent quality, accommodate different preferences and integrate naturally into the kitchen,” Harold Xu said. The strongest opportunity is in automatic and bean-to-cup machines that reduce complexity without compromising the quality consumers associate with café coffee. “Consumers want quality and control without the time, skill or cleaning required by traditional manual preparation. Compact, design-led appliances are also increasingly relevant in kitchens where bench space is limited.” Consumers are considering the complete ownership experience, including precision extraction, freshly ground coffee, one-touch operation, milk personalisation, easy maintenance and a compact footprint. 44
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
“Retailers should start with how the customer drinks coffee. Fully automatic bean-to-cup machines suit shoppers prioritising convenience and consistency, while semi-automatic solutions may better suit those who enjoy the craft of preparation. “The recommendation should then consider drink preferences, frequency of use, available bench space, desired personalisation and maintenance expectations. The goal is to match the technology to the consumer rather than recommend the longest feature list.” AR
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Retailers should start with how the customer drinks coffee. Fully automatic bean-to-cup machines suit shoppers prioritising convenience and consistency, while semi-automatic solutions may better suit those who enjoy the craft of preparation.
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‘Freshly ground, not capsuled.’
Enjoy like Roger Federer. The E10 expands the E line with Cold Brew and combines four worlds of indulgence into a perfect coffee experience. Roger Federer, Swiss tennis icon and JURA brand ambassador since 2006.
jura.com
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Connectivity and personalisation are the newer differentiators: programmable brew profiles that remember exactly how someone likes their flat white, and app control for consistency. That’s the space Beko’s CaffeExperto range is built for…
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The Beko Coffee Experto V4, which won an iF Design Award 2026 for its minimalist, connected interface, is a strong indication of where the Beko range is heading in the future.
BEKO
Eddie Gaymer National Sales Manager Café-quality coffee at home is no longer a niche interest, it’s a direct response to cost-of-living pressure. With café coffee prices climbing and household disposable incomes under pressure, more Australians are choosing to invest once in a machine rather than pay daily, according to Beko. “Consumers want a machine that replicates the café experience by offering integrated grinders, milk texturing, and increasingly connected systems, which already make up over half of the automatic machine category,” Eddie Gaymer said. Milk performance and ease of maintenance are the two biggest swing factors, as consumers want café-style microfoam, while self-cleaning and descale-prompt functions have moved from niceto-have, to expected. “What used to separate commercial-grade equipment from a home unit is also disappearing fast. Pressure profiling and consistent extraction control, once reserved for machines well over $2,000, are increasingly standard on accessible models, and buyers are getting savvier about comparing genuine capability against price rather than being swayed by marketing alone. “Connectivity and personalisation are the newer differentiators: programmable brew profiles that remember exactly how someone likes their flat white, and app control for consistency. Beko’s CaffeExperto range offers 18 programmable brews and smart app control, paired with a 20-bar pressure system, so the upgrade decision comes down to performance, not just a spec sheet.” 46
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Beko CaffeExperto CE7500+ CEG 7348 X Fully Automatic Espresso Machine `BrewSense technology optimises pressure and temperature `GrindPro system offers 13 adjustable settings `BrewConnect to control the coffee machine with the HomeDirect mobile app `Touch colour screen display `High-pressure for perfect espresso RRP: $899
“Retailers should expect deeper integration with Beko’s HomeWhiz ecosystem, the connected platform already rolling out across the wider appliance range, bringing app-based control and usage tracking to coffee machines, the same way it already does for ovens and dishwashers. “The other direction is AI-assisted personalisation. Beko’s global R&D network has been explicit about building machine-learning into how its appliances adapt to household habits, and coffee is a natural fit: a machine that learns someone’s preferred strength and milk ratio rather than requiring manual programming every time. “Underpinning both is Beko’s reliability-first engineering philosophy: appliances tested to simulate a decade of real use, so retailers can expect genuine performance to keep pace with the added smarts, not just a flashier interface.” Gaymer’s advice for retailers helping customers choose the right coffee machine – start with habits, not hardware, including how many coffees the household drinks each day, whether milkbased drinks matter, how much time someone wants to spend on the process, and how much cleaning they’re willing to do. “That conversation alone narrows dozens of models down to two or three genuine contenders: an automatic bean-to-cup for convenience, or a semi-automatic for someone who enjoys the process itself,” he said. “From there, a hands-on demonstration lets someone taste the coffee, feel the milk texture, and see how intuitive the interface is, which matters more as machines add digital controls.” AR
HOME CAFÉ AR
DE’LONGHI
Maria Bartle Senior Brand Manager – Coffee De’Longhi is seeing consumers trade up from basic drip or capsule systems to espresso and beanto-cup machines that replicate café beverages at home. Single-serve and capsule systems remain important, but consumers increasingly expect café-style texture and flavour, not just speed, which is driving innovation. “Growing interest in single-origin, specialty-grade beans and micro roasters is pushing demand for machines that offer precise control over grind, temperature and extraction,” Maria Bartle said. “While cafés still dominate coffee dollars, athome brewing is growing faster as post-pandemic home setups become permanent. Systems that can prepare coffee, tea, hot chocolate and iced beverages are growing, indicating a desire for versatile appliances that serve the whole household. “Automation and ease of use remain core preference signals with strong growth in automatic and self-cleaning machines highlighting a preference for ‘push button’ café outcomes over manual skill.” Product features that influence purchase decisions include integrated grinders and bean-to-cup capability, milk texturing and automated milk systems, smart connectivity and app control, selfcleaning and low maintenance, as well as compact footprints and eco-friendly designs.
bean-to-cup units with bigger hoppers and water tanks fit families or heavy users. “It’s also important to highlight maintenance realities upfront. Explain cleaning routines, filter changes, descaling and pod disposal so customers choose a machine whose upkeep matches their tolerance and lifestyle. “Frame sustainability and running costs clearly. Compare ongoing costs of beans versus pods, energy use, and waste implications; many shoppers will favour options that balance budget with environmental impact.” Bartle also encourages live demonstrations and taste tests where possible to allow customers to experience differences in cup quality, noise, speed and interface to build confidence and reduce postpurchase regret. AR
De’Longhi Eletta Ultra Fully Automatic Coffee Machine
`50+ customisable recipes for brewing espresso, filter coffee and cold brew `Seven curated coffee collections, four user profiles and one family profile `LatteCrema Hot & Cool milk carafes for silky, smooth microfoam `Auto calibration for the perfect grind and brew settings `Silent brewing technology brews coffee up to 65% quieter than De’Longhi’s previous models RRP: $1,698
Looking ahead, De’Longhi expects expanded ranges with finer grind control, improved temperature stability and more customisable drink profiles; better texture control, plant milk optimisation and automatic cleaning of milk circuits; deeper smart-home integration; more sustainability-driven product lines, and growth in subscription-ready ecosystems for coffee beans and capsules. “When helping customers choose the right coffee machine, retailers should start with their coffee style, not the hardware. Ask whether they mainly drink espresso, milk-based drinks, long blacks or filter, then match machine types to those habits,” Bartle said. “Distinguish between customers who enjoy the ritual (grinding, tamping, steaming) and those who want one-touch results; this guides them toward manual versus fully automatic systems. Then discuss kitchen space and household size. Compact machines or single-serve systems may suit apartments and solo drinkers, while larger www.applianceretailer.com.au
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We’ll also continue expanding our premium coffee portfolio to meet the needs of everyone from coffee enthusiasts through to consumers looking for exceptional coffee with minimal effort.
NINJA
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Will Tran Senior Product Manager
The shift towards café-quality coffee at home continues to accelerate as consumers look for ways to enjoy premium coffee while reducing the cost of frequent café purchases, according to Ninja. “Today’s consumers expect more than just espresso. They’re looking for machines that can prepare a wide variety of drinks, from espresso and flat whites to cold brew and filter coffee, while delivering consistent results with minimal effort. As a result, we’re seeing growing demand for intelligent coffee systems that combine premium performance with intuitive technology,” Will Tran said.
Ninja is seeing particularly strong growth in premium bean-to-cup and guided espresso machines, as consumers still want café-quality coffee, but they increasingly want technology to remove the complexity.
Ninja AutoBarista Pro
`Fully automatic bean-tocup coffee system with 13 one-touch drinks `Grind iQ technology automatically optimises grind size and dose `Built-in grinder, precision scale and integrated tamper `FrothPerfect technology creates automatic caféquality microfoam `Save personalised drink profiles with custom strength, size, temperature and milk settings RRP: $1,199
“Rather than manually adjusting grind size, dosing and extraction, they’re looking for machines that automate these processes while still allowing some personalisation. This reflects a broader shift towards premium appliances that deliver professional-quality results without requiring specialist knowledge.” Consumers are prioritising intelligent automation, versatility and customisation. Features such as integrated grinders, weightbased dosing, automatic grind calibration, assisted tamping and automatic milk frothing help remove the guesswork while producing consistently excellent coffee. “Consumers are also looking for greater beverage variety. Machines that can prepare espresso, filter coffee, cold brew and milk-based drinks with both hot and cold foam from a single appliance are becoming increasingly popular,” Tran said. Innovation remains central to Ninja’s approach to the coffee category. Over the coming year, retailers can expect continued investment in intelligent brewing technologies that make café-quality coffee more accessible. “Our focus will remain on simplifying the brewing process through automation while giving consumers greater flexibility, more beverage options and increased personalisation. We’ll also continue expanding our premium coffee portfolio to meet the needs of everyone from coffee enthusiasts through to consumers looking for exceptional coffee with minimal effort.” When asked for advice to retailers helping consumers navigate the coffee category, Tran said it is important to start by understanding how customers enjoy their coffee. Some consumers are looking for a traditional espresso-making experience with more control, while others simply want exceptional coffee at the touch of a button. “By understanding whether they’re upgrading from pod machines, entering the category for the first time or replacing an older espresso machine, retailers can better recommend the right solution. Demonstrating the technology behind the machine, particularly intelligent grinding, automated brewing and milk frothing, also helps customers understand the value these features deliver every day.” AR
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HOME CAFÉ AR
Nespresso Vertuo Up
NESPRESSO
Stefan Vermeulen Managing Director – ANZ Nespresso is seeing consumers demand more versatility, premium experiences and the ability to personalise their coffee. While classics like lattes, flat whites and cappuccinos remain favourites, younger consumers are increasingly experimenting with iced coffees, new recipes and flavour-led creations inspired by social media and café culture.
`Intuitively creates a range of high-quality coffees with a coffee creations mode that enhances the flavour of coffee by choosing a more concentrated extraction `More than 40 coffee varieties across seven cup sizes, powered by Vertuo’s Centrifusion technology `Sleek and premium, space-saving design with a rotating 1.4L water tank `Ready to brew in just three seconds `Smart connectivity via the Nespresso app, including recipe inspiration and machine support RRP: $349 (machine only) / $439 bundle
“As expectations grow, consumers are looking for coffee systems that deliver both convenience and exceptional taste,” Stefan Vermeulen said. “At Nespresso, our Original range continues to provide a premium espresso experience, while Vertuo offers added flexibility with multiple cup sizes, rich crema and brewing innovations such as Coffee Creations mode for more concentrated extractions.” There is strong momentum in the mid-tier premium segment, where consumers are looking for a balance of quality, innovation and value. Shoppers increasingly want machines that deliver an elevated experience without complexity, combining exceptional coffee quality with smart features and contemporary design, according to Vermeulen. “The success of new Vertuo Up reflects this trend, with consumers responding positively to its versatility, sleek and intuitive design, connectivity and ability to create a wide range of coffee styles at home,” he said. While factors such as convenience and sleek design play an important role in coffee machine upgrade decisions, consumers want to know above all else that the coffee machine can deliver a great, fresh tasting coffee. AR
SMEG
Yuka Wen Product Manager – SDA SMEG is seeing demand for domestic coffee machines continue to outpace growth in other benchtop appliance categories. Younger consumers are increasingly exploring a broader range of coffee styles beyond traditional favourites, driving demand for versatile and customisable solutions. “At the same time, rising café prices are encouraging more Australians to become at-home baristas, investing in both equipment and skills to recreate café-quality results,” Yuka Wen said. “Consumer interest in premium coffee machines is increasing, with a growing focus on superior taste, personalisation, and creating a more elevated coffee experience at home.” SMEG has recognised this trend and developed its coffee machine range to make premium coffee more accessible to everyday consumers and budding home baristas. “Designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind, our coffee machines help newcomers achieve consistently great tasting coffee without the complexity often associated with specialty coffee preparation. SMEG brings its renowned Italian design heritage to the category, allowing consumers to elevate the aesthetic of their kitchens with its iconic 50s style range. “Available in a variety of colours, these coffee machines combine functionality with design-led appeal, making them a focal point in the kitchen.”
SMEG Minipro Expresso Coffee Machine EMC02WHMAU
`LCD display to customise settings and shows coffee extraction time `Pre-infusion function `Manual or pre-set espresso functions `Triple Thermoblock System – individual heating for coffee brewing, steaming milk and group head to provide stability in temperature control `Monitor extraction with the pressure gauge for that perfect taste
With consumers exploring a wider variety of coffee styles, fast cold brew is emerging as one of the fastest-growing segments, according to SMEG. “This is driving demand for large touchscreen displays that enhance convenience and simplify the coffee-making experience,” Wen said. AR
RRP: $2,399
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BREVILLE
Athena Kalos Business Manager – Coffee The home café trend is evolving. Consumers want to reproduce café-style espresso at home, but it’s increasingly about quality without complexity, Breville’s Athena Kalos said. “Consumers value freshly ground beans, espresso extraction and textured milk, but they expect technology to help them achieve consistent results.” At the premium end, automation is also becoming increasingly important, with consumers seeking better coffee but wanting it to be easier and more consistent. “Consumers are looking for features that deliver café-quality coffee with ease and simplicity, but with greater consistency and better results. They are also looking for a wider selection of coffee styles and recipes, as well as better milk performance,” Kalos said. Her advice to retailers helping customers choose a coffee machine: Start by asking how hands-on they like to be with their coffee making. “Those who enjoy being hands-on are well suited to a manual espresso machine, while consumers who want some guidance through the process will be better served by an assisted manual model, and those who prefer minimal intervention should be steered towards an automatic machine,” she said. “Also ask what coffee they drink. If it’s espresso or long blacks, the emphasis should be on extraction quality, but if they favour lattes or cappuccinos, milk performance becomes key. Then ask how important convenience and consistency are, as this establishes the level of automation and naturally creates the trade-up conversation.” AR
KitchenAid KF4 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with Iced Coffee
`20+ pre-set drink recipes including iced coffee and iced espresso `Dual-Drink AutoMilk system automatically adjusts milk texture and volume for each drink `QuietGrind and IntelliGrind technology `Delivers the same powerful performance in a 25% smaller footprint (compared to other KitchenAid fully automatic machines) `Three-year limited warranty and 10-year repairability commitment RRP: $1,599
Breville the Barista Touch Impress BES881BSB
RRP: $2,399
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Madeleine Brazel Category Manager KitchenAid believes consumers are looking not only for convenience, but personalising their coffee rituals through exploration. “Coffee machines that offer diverse recipes or functions that help put the control in their hands, without compromising on café-quality taste, are driving demand,” Madeleine Brazel said. Growth is steering towards fully automatic models as people look for consistency, speed and premium taste at the press of a button. “Our new fully automatic range enters the market at the perfect time, bringing a fresh, highly competitive offering that aligns directly with consumer preferences.”
`Touchscreen with step-by-step Barista Guidance `Impress Puck System with intelligent dosing `Automatic milk texturing with Alternative Milk settings `Cold extraction with Cold Brew and Cold Espresso `ThermoJet heating system with fast threesecond heat-up
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When consumers are ready to upgrade, they look for versatility and long-term peace of mind without compromising benchtop real estate. “Today’s buyers expect expansion into cold beverage menus, a variety of one-touch drink choices, and a compact footprint – all backed by strong warranties and repairability that guarantee long-term value.” Looking at the next 12 months, KitchenAid is dedicated to evolving its range, while honouring and expanding the brand’s legacy and “continuing to invest in products to help shape the next chapter of this category”. Helping shoppers choose the right coffee machine comes down to matching the machine to their daily routine, rather than overloading them with specs, according to Brazel. “Focusing on their morning routine, preferred drinks and variety, milk preference, and benchtop space to guide them toward compact, fully automatic solutions that deliver maximum impact, removes purchase hesitation, fast.” AR
FEATURE
Floorcare ALL-IN-ONE ROBOTS & HANDSTICKS
AR FLOORCARE
The robot experience gaining traction BY KYMBERLY MARTIN
OUTLOOK
The vacuum category remains one of the strongest growth drivers within SDA, with revenue increasing by 13% in the year ending June 2026, ahead of 5% in unit growth. ASPs increased 8%, supported by the growing importance of higher-priced robotic vacuums which enjoyed 60% growth. Wet and dry types also increased in volume terms, according to NielsenIQ data. This has resulted in a shift away from handstick models, and while declining 6% over same period, are still the largest segment of the market. Globally, household cleaning robot shipments grew over 20% in the past year, with the robot
vacuum segment alone rising around 17%, according to IDC. Differentiation is increasingly shifting toward intelligence, autonomy and adaptability alongside core cleaning performance. IDC research emphasised that the next phase of competition will be determined by sustained AI capability, including multi-sensor fusion, decision-making, scene understanding and continual improvement in obstacle avoidance, path planning, stain recognition, self-recovery, and interaction. And while “intelligence” is a key value driver, cleaning performance remains the product foundation most valued by consumers.
FLOORCARE AR
DREAME
Harold Xu Head of Marketing – ANZ The floorcare market continues to grow as consumers adopt technologies that make cleaning faster, easier and more effective. Convenience remains important, but expectations now extend to deeper cleaning, broader floor coverage and less manual maintenance. This is supporting strong interest in advanced robotic vacuum and mop solutions, particularly as consumers better understand the benefits of intelligent navigation, automated maintenance and improved performance across different surfaces. “The category is shifting from basic automation towards intelligent, all-in-one cleaning. Consumers increasingly value stronger suction, more effective mopping, better edge coverage, smarter obstacle avoidance and a more autonomous ownership experience,” Harold Xu said. “The premium robotic segment is showing particularly strong potential because shoppers are prepared to invest when technology delivers a clear improvement to everyday life. Dreame continues to support this trade-up by bringing advanced floorcare innovation to Australia and New Zealand.” Speaking further on the market, Xu said next generation floorcare will combine deeper cleaning with greater autonomy. Key developments include 180°C steam mopping with continuous freshwater cleaning, suction reaching 40,000Pa or more, and extended brushes, mop pads and rollers that improve coverage along edges and in corners. “AI-powered dual-camera navigation, retractable LDS systems and improved threshold-crossing technology will help robots understand complex homes, avoid objects and move between rooms more reliably. Together, these advances bring the category closer to a genuinely hands-free, wholehome cleaning experience. “The greatest opportunity is helping consumers understand how premium technology solves real household problems. Rather than leading with
Dreame X60 Ultra Extreme Robotic Vacuum
`Dual-Joint UltraExtend arms with 12cm side reach vacuuming and 18cm MopExtend mechanical arms `Dual AI camera with Proactive Blue light detects obstacles and 3D objects with dual camera vision and lightassisted detection `Vormax suction upgrade with 42,000Pa suction and 100% anti-tangle efficiency `ProLeap 10cm obstacle clearing with industryfirst FlexiAdapt `100°C mop selfcleaning scrubs mop pads at high speed, dissolving grease and eliminating 99% of bacteria with auto hot air drying prevents mildew and odours RRP: TBC
specifications, retailers can demonstrate benefits such as better edge cleaning, improved stain removal, reduced hair tangling and less manual maintenance. “In-store demonstrations and purpose-built fixtures can make these capabilities tangible, while online videos, clear comparisons and lifestyle-led content can perform the same role digitally,” he said. “Retail partners are supported with product training, educational materials and assets that make premium technology easier to explain and sell.” As floorcare technology becomes more advanced, Dreame’s role is to give retailers the knowledge and tools they need to explain it with confidence. The brand provides product training that translates specifications into meaningful consumer benefits, helping sales teams identify the right model for each household and clearly communicate the differences between products. Dreame also invests in purpose-built fixtures, demonstrations, comparison materials, digital content and point-of-sale assets. “By combining knowledgeable retail teams with intuitive in-store and online experiences, we empower partners to simplify the category, build confidence and guide customers towards the product that best suits their home and lifestyle,” Xu said. AR
AR FLOORCARE dust mite extraction, are helping drive consumer adoption of premium robotic cleaning solutions, delivering superior cleaning results with minimal user intervention.” Artificial Intelligence will also play a defining role in the next generation of floorcare products. “The industry is rapidly evolving beyond simple navigation towards proactive, adaptive cleaning that can understand and respond to the unique needs of each home. Future innovations will focus on enhanced AI-powered object recognition, improved household awareness, greater cleaning precision and more personalised automation.” Over the next 12 months, retailers can expect continued innovation across the ECOVACS DEEBOT range, with a strong focus on AIpowered cleaning intelligence.
ECOVACS ROBOTICS
Karen Powell Regional Director – ANZ The floorcare category remains one of the most dynamic segments within home appliances. As lifestyles become busier, demand is shifting beyond basic cleaning performance towards convenience, automation and smart home integration. Today’s consumers are looking for complete floorcare solutions that vacuum, mop, self-clean and intelligently adapt to different surfaces, helping reduce the time spent on household chores while maintaining consistently high cleaning performance. ECOVACS has been at the forefront of this evolution, helping drive consumer adoption through innovations such as integrated mopping systems, self-emptying stations and fully automated maintenance features that reduce the effort traditionally associated with floor cleaning, Karen Powell said. Automation continues to be the biggest driver of growth in the floorcare category, with premium robotic vacuum and mop combinations the fastest growing segment. Products with advanced docking stations that automate key maintenance tasks, including dust collection, mop washing and water replenishment, are quickly becoming the new standard in premium floorcare. There is growing demand for technologies that deliver both stronger cleaning performance and greater efficiency. “Innovations such as ECOVACS’ BOOST technology, which enables perpetual runtime and BLAST technology, for larger particle pick-up and over 95% certified 54
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
ECOVACS DEEBOT X12S OmniCyclone Robotic Vacuum
`Industry-first OZMO ROLLER 3.0 Mopping System continuously self-washing roller mop `27,000Pa suction for deep carpet and hard floor cleaning with 53AW of suction power `FocusJet stain predissolving technology targets dried-on spills, kitchen grease and pet messes `Advanced AI navigation and smart home intelligence powered by AIVI 3D 4.0 and Agent Yiko 3.0 `OmniCyclone station for a hands-free experience automatically washes the mop roller, selfcleans the station and delivers touch-free bagless dust emptying RRP: $2,999
It starts with the DEEBOT X12S OmniCyclone that showcases the next chapter of ECOVACS innovation. “Building on our pioneering rollerwashing technology, we’ve developed a robotic cleaning system that not only tackles visible messes with greater efficiency but also addresses the hidden dust, debris and allergens that impact everyday home hygiene. By combining powerful cleaning performance with advanced automation and AI, we’re delivering a smarter, more effortless cleaning experience.” While many shoppers initially compare products on price, premium robotic floorcare solutions deliver significant convenience, time saving and performance benefits over their lifespan. Retailers can drive stronger conversion by focusing on outcomes rather than technical specifications. “In-store demonstrations are often limited by space but remain one of the most effective ways to convert sales when available. Demonstrating features such as intelligent obstacle avoidance, edge cleaning, self-emptying stations and automated mop washing helps bring the technology to life for consumers. Online, retailers can leverage video content, comparison tools and real-life use cases to clearly demonstrate how these features translate into everyday benefits. “Product seeding and staff purchase programs can also be highly effective. When retail staff have first-hand experience with a product, they can speak more authentically about its benefits, helping build customer confidence in premium solutions. “The more effectively retailers connect technology to real-world outcomes, the greater the opportunity for category growth.” AR
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IROBOT
Malcolm Russell General Manager – Marketing The robotic floorcare market continues to show growth and opportunity within the Australian landscape. As consumers become more familiar with the technology and recognise the benefits of an automated, hands-free cleaning solution, these advances provide excellent opportunities for retailers to benefit from the category growth. “iRobot has been the driver of this category since the beginning and with the launch of a complete range of new products, this era for iRobot represents an exciting new chapter for the brand,” Malcolm Russell said. The Roomba Max 875 Combo Robot + Auto Wash Dock that was unveiled at IFA Berlin will be launched here in October. It carries the company’s SealForce vacuuming technology that changes how the vacuum concentrates air flow and suction power for deeper carpet cleaning. Russell said key trends in the robotic category include cleaning technology advances such as ultrasonic ThermaMist that sprays continuous hot mist while mopping for a deep clean on tough stains and SealForce concentrated suction that uses suction power and a lowered chassis to concentrate the suction force against carpet fibres. 56
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Roomba Max 875 Robot + AutoWash Dock
`Proprietary SealForce vacuuming technology with 35,000Pa suction for deeper carpet cleaning `Ultrasonic ThermaMist technology pre-treats dried-on mess with continuous heated mist for better stain removal `Self-cleaning PowerSpin Max roller mop is the industry’s largest, with 300RPM roller speed and delivers N/m2 of downward pressure for deeper scrubbing `Patented, AI-powered DriLift technology self-lifting roller shield for complete carpet protection `PerfectEdge extends the roller up to 45mm along walls and skirting boards with an outward-expanding Edge-Sweeping side brush for corners RRP:$2,899
These technology advances are also supported by increases in Pa suction power and protection mechanisms such as the AI powered DriLift that automatically detects and lowers a protective shield to keep carpets dry. “AI will continue to assist end users with advances in navigation, object detection, and innovation to hands-free, robotic cleaning.” His perception of the local market is that the penetration rate is still relatively low for robotic floorcare products. “The opportunity is across a brand tiering system that introduces the concept of robotic floorcare with excellent cleaning results, to step-up features that address end users specific cleaning needs, to a product which capitalises on the latest cleaning technology, navigational excellence and best in class, hands-free cleaning.” It is crucial to ask questions on end user’s needs, listening and presenting selected products that best fit their requirements. “Our new iRobot range has been categorised between Roomba, Roomba Plus and Roomba Max to assist with improved classification from both a price point and feature set perspective. “This is intended to make it easier for the consumers and floor staff to identify the differences between the models and make an informed decision based on budget and cleaning needs,” Russell said. AR
FLOORCARE AR
ELECTROLUX
Jason Hodge Category Manager – Wellbeing Floorcare is seeing significant growth, primarily driven by robotic innovation and household adoption for automated products. There is also strong volume and market value being generated in the handstick segment as consumers opt for more convenient vacuuming solutions. “Factors like automatic emptying clean stations in the handstick market are also driving significant adoption as these types of solutions greatly reduce impact of allergies and offer cleaner vacuuming experiences,” Jason Hodge said. “Other options like wet & dry, uprights and canister models are showing signs of having stabilised in the market and found a strong niche with consumers who prefer deeper cleaning solutions. However, handsticks and robotics will continue to be our core focus as this is where we see the strongest demand. “Electrolux has over a century of delivering quality floorcare products, so consumers can expect to see high-quality and convenient products enter the handstick market and robotic space in the short term, and years to come.” Right now, Hodge said, “we are looking at a saturated market with a large range of product options and aggressive discounting making consumers unsure of the right product solution. “As Electrolux brings its new robotic vacuum cleaners and Clean Station handstick products to market, there is an opportunity for retailers to focus on specific products from each brand, to maximise the total brand offering for consumers. “Partnering with trusted brands like Electrolux is foundational to long-term growth. Leading consumers to the strongest brands ensures we add value to the industry and provide the best solutions to consumers.” AR
Electrolux Clean Station Handstick Vacuum Cleaner EFP72315SB `All-in-One Clean Station docks, charges and automatically empties `AllFloor Auto Nozzle with 99% dust pick up `Weighs 1.35kg in the hand while cleaning `Six-step HEPA filtration captures up to 99.99% of micro-dust `Auto Mode adjusts suction power depending on floor surface for best results from battery performance during cleaning RRP: $699
BISSELL PowerClean Dual Brush
`DualBrush tackles both large and small debris `AutoAdapt technology automatically boosts suction power up to 75% `FurFinder headlights powerfully illuminate hidden fur, dirt and debris `Two removable batteries and runtime up to 100 minutes `HEPA filtration helps capture 99.7% of dust and allergens RRP: $599
BISSELL
Chris Egan Managing Director The floorcare market environment continues to be challenging with low consumer confidence appearing to influence discretionary spending. However, market reports continue to indicate strong premium robot growth possibly eroding some other segments. “Potentially this will change as consumers seek more intensive cleaning than just maintenance clean,” Chris Egan said. “Portable deep cleaners continue to be popular in home and auto use applications, especially when supported by Bissell Oxy based cleaning formulas that offer permanent stain removal.” Convenience of cleaning type, supported by ease and speed of clean are strong purchase influencers and supporting this is the use of specialist Bissell cleaning additives for deep stain removal from both hard and soft surfaces. These can also deliver surface treatment, aroma and sanitising benefits. Home connectivity complemented by AI technology is expected to enhance cleaning enabling real time identification of mess or stain types and the automatic application of more intensive cleaning processes as required. “For in-store retail theatre, wet cleaning products are highly demonstrable enabling retailers to dramatically show their effectiveness on hard or soft surfaces. The appearance of black cleaning water from otherwise relatively clean looking surfaces is also highly compelling. These practical and hands-on product demonstrations, together with sales consultant qualification of consumer needs, delivers a powerful sales message for shoppers helping them understand options and outcomes best suited to their needs,” Egan said. The Bissell PowerClean FurGuard won the Red Dot Award for Product Design 2026, and “confirms the product stands out in terms of form, function and innovation”, he said. AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Deep-cleaning penetration is still well under 10% of households globally, so there’s genuine headroom, and pet ownership is a big part of that story in Australia specifically, with roughly three-quarters of households now owning a pet.
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HITACHI HOME APPLIANCES Murat Dora Head of Product
Hitachi described the floorcare market as fastgrowing but intensely competitive, as robot vacuums have moved well beyond novelty status into genuine mainstream household adoption, and the category continues to expand at pace. “But that growth has drawn a crowded field of manufacturers competing hard on price and technology, making genuine differentiation harder than the growth alone,” Murat Dora said. “Unit volumes across traditional vacuums are flat to slightly down, but what’s holding value up is premiumisation: self-emptying robots, wetdry combination cleaners and smart navigation because Australians are still willing to pay for something that saves them time. That’s the space Hitachi is entering, with precision engineering as the differentiator, rather than price.” Robotics and wet cleaning are the two standout growth engines, for different reasons. Robot vacuums are being pulled forward by smart home integration and genuinely useful navigation, while LiDAR mapping, obstacle avoidance and selfemptying docks have turned what used to be a novelty into a considered household purchase. As for growth in wet cleaning and multi-surface systems, the reason is more practical than technological: deep-cleaning penetration is still well under 10% of households globally, so there’s genuine headroom, and pet ownership is a big part of that story in Australia, with roughly threequarters of households now owning a pet. 58
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Hitachi Robot Vacuum Cleaner RV-X20DP BKCG
`LDS navigation mapping `Auto Dust disposal system `Powerful suction power up to 5,000Pa `Long battery life up to four hours `Additional cleaning settings and modes via the HomeDirect app RRP: $899
The next step forward in floorcare is about everyday reliability rather than spectacle. “Hot water mopping is emerging as a real improvement over damp-cloth systems for lifting sticky residue, and all-in-one docking stations that auto-wash mop pads, empty the bin and refill water, are reducing the maintenance that’s historically put some households off robot vacuums. AI-based object recognition is improving with less need for manual intervention.” Hitachi’s roadmap is focused on building on the LiDAR navigation and auto dust disposal already in its robot range. The clearest opportunity he said, is trading households up from a single, basic dry vacuum to a genuinely complementary setup: a robot for daily maintenance and a proper wet or multisurface machine for the deeper clean a dry vacuum can’t manage. Floorcare also remains a “show me” category. “People want to see suction, mopping and navigation work before paying a premium for it, so in-store demonstration and well-trained staff can convert sales in a way a spec sheet can’t. Online, that means real footage over stock photography. Making the everyday problem visible, then showing the machine solve it, is what turns browsing into a confident premium purchase. “The biggest barrier is the sheer volume of competing spec claims: Pa suction figures, AW ratings, battery-life numbers that don’t reflect realworld use. Retailers can simply translate this into outcomes: this suction level handles pet hair on carpet, this runtime covers a three-bedroom home on one charge, this dock means emptying the bin once a month instead of once a week. “Segmenting by lifestyle rather than by brand or price also helps. A clear good-better-best structure gives shoppers permission to stop comparing and just decide.” AR
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ANKER INNOVATIONS
Kleanthis Mantzouranis Brand Communications Director – ANZ The floorcare category is in good shape with steady, sustained growth rather than a spike, and has been building for a while as consumers reset the bar, according Kleanthis Mantzouranis. He attributes this to the expectation that people are choosing floorcare that “slots into their life, not the other way around”. He said: “New brands have followed, so competition is heating up on price and features. The result is a local market that’s steadily trading up. The brands that win are the ones that deliver a real clean, not just a clever box.” He believes a big chunk of the local market is now upgrade buyers, coming back because navigation, carpet performance and hands-free maintenance have all jumped since their first machine. “Households want one device that does it all, hard floors, carpet, edges, corners, rather than a separate machine and a separate chore for every job. “The fastest-moving segments follow straight from that: all-in-one robot stations, and the premium end we play in. Customers will pay a bit more for a product that works with their life, without friction and that is why the premium tier is outgrowing entry-level locally, even in a costconscious climate.” One technology he said that defines the next generation of floorcare, is smart home integration. “The floorcare of the future isn’t a device that sits in its own siloed app. It’s one that talks to the rest of the home: controlled alongside security and outdoor care, through the app, automatically and in the background. That’s what sets eufy apart.
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The floorcare of the future isn’t a device that sits in its own siloed app. It’s one that talks to the rest of the home: controlled alongside security and outdoor care, through the app, automatically and in the background. That’s what sets eufy apart.
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Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
eufy Robot Vacuum Omni S2
`AeroTurbo 2.0 delivers 30,000Pa suction and 365‑day filter cleanliness with DuoSpiral and antitangle brushes `S2 auto‑adjusts suction and height for carpets up to 5cm, lifts the mop to stay dry and avoids tassels for seamless cleaning `HydroJet 2.0 selfcleaning roller mop `3D MatrixEye 2.0 detects 200+ obstacles, customises cleaning by room, crosses 4.2cm thresholds, avoiding 1cm objects `12‑in‑1 hands-free UniClean Station automatically washes, dries, disinfects, adds detergent and stores dust for 68 days RRP: $2,995
“We don’t build floorcare in isolation; we build it as part of a broader smart home ecosystem, with floorcare, home security, and robot lawn mowers all working together on a single platform.” That integration is built on three foundations: AI navigation and 3D mapping; machines that understand the home and get the job done right first time; real deep-cleaning performance and hands-free self-maintenance; and finally selfemptying, auto mop-washing, drying, and odour control, all handled at the dock. “From entry-level robots through to a flagship all-in-one, every eufy product is designed around the customer and how they live. Local retailers can expect us to keep that focus, as innovation shouldn’t just look good on a spec sheet, it should work with how people live.” He believes floorcare is best sold by showcasing value, training the team, and merchandising with intent, because floor space is tight and no box sells itself sitting silent on a shelf. “Digital tools close that gap by letting customers see the product in action and understand it in a real home, rather than judging a static box. Pair that with a merchandising by use case; “for pet owners”, “for busy families”, “for larger homes”, so the first question a customer asks is: “which one fits my life?”, not “which one is cheapest?”. And back it with the Anker Academy training and simple one-pagers, so the team can turn a feature into a benefit in a single sentence. “That is how eufy supports the sale, by building products around benefits that matter to consumers. When the product does the work of fitting into someone’s life, the decision simplifies itself and that’s a stronger purchase, not a discounted one.” AR
FLOORCARE AR
LG
Shannon Tweedie Home Solutions Marketing Manager The floorcare market remains highly competitive, with Australians seeking smarter, more convenient cleaning solutions that make life easier. Growth is being driven less by first-time purchases, and more by upgrading to highperformance, all-in-one products. “Consumers are increasingly drawn to products that take friction out of everyday tasks, especially with growing awareness around hygiene, allergens and pet hair. Auto-empty docks and combi towers are the fastest growing segment because they solve the two biggest frustrations with cordless vacuums, short runtime and messy bin emptying,” Shannon Tweedie said. She believes the next generation of floorcare products will be defined by intelligence, not just suction. “LG is focused on auto-emptying docks that reduce hands-on maintenance, as well as app-based diagnostics. Retailers can expect LG to keep pushing on hybrid handstick all-in-one tower solutions because that’s where we’re seeing the strongest response from households.” Retailers should consider helping customers connect premium features to everyday benefits. Tweedie suggests showing how a vacuum can move seamlessly from hard floors to carpet, or how an auto-emptying system reduces day-today maintenance. “When shoppers see how a product fits into their home and routine, they’re more likely to recognise the value of investing in a premium solution. Ask about floor types, pets, stairs and how often they want to empty a bin, then match the answer to a model.” AR
Roborock Saros 20 Flow
`36,000Pa HyperForce suction motor `Upgraded AdaptiLift Chassis 3.0 to cross double-layer thresholds of up to 8.8cm `Roller mop for thorough cleaning of floors `Retract Sense LiDAR Navigation for precision mapping and 3D obstacle recognition `Officially certified as Allergy Friendly by the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation RRP: $2,799
ROBOROCK
Danni Li Marketing Manager Floorcare is one of the most competitive and innovative categories in home appliances and it’s great for consumers, was a market observation from Roborock.
LG CordZero Auto Emptying Handstick A9X-AUTO2
`Up to 280W suction power `Auto Empty All-in-One Tower automatically empties the dust bin while storing and charging `Dual Floor Max nozzle with LED light seamlessly cleans both carpet and hard floors without needing to swap attachments `Auto Stop & Go technology pauses suction when the vacuum is placed down and restarts when lifted `LG ThinQ connectivity monitors battery status, filter maintenance, cleaning history and diagnostics RRP: $1,399
“We are no longer selling a single device, but a much broader floorcare portfolio spanning premium robot vacuums, along with growing interest in complementary cleaning solutions, with robot vacuums handling everyday automation and wet-and-dry products addressing more intensive hard-floor cleaning,” Danni Li said. “Suction remains fundamental, but it is no longer the only measure of performance. Competition is increasingly moving toward intelligence, adaptability and how much manual intervention a product can remove.” Alongside robotics, wet and dry vacuums are a strong parallel growth story, as households look for a dedicated solution to spills, grease and stuck-on messes that robots and stick vacuums handle less well. “It’s a smaller category, but the same underlying trend applies with consumers choosing products built for a specific job.” Hygiene is becoming an increasingly important frontier, alongside intelligence and autonomy. “The second shift is accessibility as features that used to be exclusive to top-tier models, like object recognition or advanced navigation, are moving into more accessible price points.” Retailers have a real opportunity to sell floorcare as a lifestyle solution rather than just an appliance, focusing on the time, convenience and peace of mind that premium products give back to consumers, according to Li. AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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MOVA EZVIZ Stella 10 Master
EZVIZ
Jock Jones Country Manager – ANZ The floorcare market was described as “ultracompetitive” by EZVIZ, with a lot of new brands and new technology, which has also seen product lifecycles become shorter. Jock Jones believes this creates complexity for retailers and suppliers to manage, but it’s “great news for the evolution of the category”. As technology and cleaning performance has evolved in the robotic floorcare category, the adoption rate is increasing significantly away from traditional vacuuming cleaning and mopping. “Suction power has driven the market’s evolution with the race for the highest quotable number reaching its peak, along with upgrades in mopping technology moving towards rollers that provide a better cleaning result,” Jones said. From an EZVIZ perspective, steam will be the next technology to reshape robotic vacuum cleaning. “The ability to use 170°C steam to soften grime is going to deliver a significantly better cleaning result for consumers and we know how important this is, particularly for those in the premium price bracket.” Demonstration is the most powerful tool in the robotic cleaning category, according to EZVIZ, as many people still view the category as a ‘gimmicky’ floor sweeper that operates in a random pattern around the home. “Showing consumers first-hand how far this category has come in the last few years is a powerful tool. From an online perspective, the quality of video content will be a primary focus, ensuring even in an online environment, consumers can see how our products clean more effectively,” Jones said. AR 62
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
`36,000Pa suction `170°C steam cleaning, 95°C hot water mopping and 100°C mop wash/dry for bacteria sanitising `AI object recognition and AI liquid spill recognition `Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google assistant `LifePure Distillation system drastically reduces clean and dirty water maintenance RRP: $2,999 Available Q3 2027
MOVA V70 Ultra Complete
`Industry-first MaxiReachX technology including a 17cm MaxiReachX Mop Extension and 12cm Side Brush Extension `42,000Pa Hurricane Suction Power `StepMaster 2.0 Obstacle-Crossing technology `EcoCyclone Bagless Dust Station for up to 100 days of hands-free use `AI-Powered 300+ Obstacle Recognition RRP: $3,299
Kattie Lu Senior Marketing Manager – ANZ The floorcare market is evolving rapidly, according to MOVA, with a clear shift from manual cleaning toward automation, alongside major innovation across robot vacuums, wet-and-dry cleaning and premium cordless products. “Consumers are increasingly looking for solutions that reduce the time and effort required to maintain the home. As technology improves, the category is moving beyond basic cleaning performance toward more intelligent, autonomous and complete cleaning experiences,” Kattie Lu said. MOVA believes the next battleground in the category will be how little the consumer needs to intervene. “AI-powered navigation and object recognition will improve, but we’ll also see innovation across the entire cleaning journey: how the robot reaches difficult areas, how effectively it washes floors, how it adapts to different surfaces, and how much the dock can automate. “The biggest opportunity is helping consumers understand why premium technology is worth paying for, particularly as floorcare becomes increasingly technical. “In-store, demonstration is incredibly important. Allowing consumers to see features such as edge cleaning, obstacle avoidance, mopping performance and automated docking in action makes the value easier to understand. Online, comparison tools, short demonstration videos and simple explanations behind each feature can help bridge the gap between specification and everyday value. Ultimately, brands and retailers need to translate technology into: what will this product genuinely do to make the consumer’s life easier?” AR
FEATURE
Wine Cabinets INTEGRATED & SEMI-INTEGRATED WINE PRESERVATION SYSTEMS
AR WINE CABINETS
Broadening appeal: Buyers are no longer just serious wine collectors BY EMILY BENCIC
OUTLOOK
Australia has ranked sixth out of the top 10 countries in the world for wine consumption on a per-person basis, data from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, in conjunction with World Bank has revealed, with Australians drinking an average of 24.5 litres of wine per person each year. Australia was the only non-European country in the global top 10 list and despite having a comparatively smaller population size, Australia was ahead of the United States, United Kingdom, China and Spain. However, the broader wine market is undergoing structural change. Wine Australia’s Export Report for the
12 months to June 2026 confirms that Australian wine exports fell 7% in value to $2.30 billion and 6% in volume to 598 million litres. This was the first time export volume had fallen below 600 million litres since 2004. Wine Australia attributes the weakness to broader declines in global wine consumption, changing consumer behaviour, economic pressures and competition from alternative beverages. The domestic market appears more resilient. Wine Australia’s latest market bulletin reports that Australian retail wine sales declined by only 1% in volume in the year to June 2026, compared with a 2.5% decline across retail alcohol overall.
Importantly, the decline was concentrated in the $6 to $9.99 per bottle segment, which fell 9%, while most other price tiers were relatively stable. As a result, wine cabinet manufacturers should target the highly engaged wine consumer; those buying better-quality wines, collecting bottles, entertaining at home and seeking distinctive wine experiences. The key opportunity therefore lies in premiumisation rather than mass-market penetration. For retailers, the message is clear – don’t sell a wine fridge. Sell the customer a better way to own, preserve, organise and enjoy their wine collection.
WINE CABINETS AR
VINTEC
Stephen Davies Category Manager – Food Preservation & Wine Vintec has seen wine storage evolve from a niche product for enthusiasts into an integral part of the modern kitchen. As more consumers invest in premium kitchens and entertaining spaces, wine cabinets are increasingly being viewed as part of the cabinetry, rather than simply another appliance. “This means design attributes such as finish, door alignment, handle treatment and flush integration are becoming just as important as performance. Consumers want wine storage solutions that complement the overall aesthetic of their kitchen while providing professional-grade wine preservation,” Stephen Davies said. Growth is being driven primarily by renovators, new home builders and everyday wine drinkers rather than serious collectors. “Expectations have shifted beyond capacity alone, with buyers now seeking products that deliver both premium design and reliable wine preservation.” Accurate and stable temperature control remains the most important feature. While consumers may initially focus on the temperature displayed on the cabinet, what matters most is the appliance’s ability to consistently maintain that temperature over time. “Buyers are also looking for dual temperature zones, UV protection, low-vibration performance and seamless integration into kitchen cabinetry. Ultimately, consumers want confidence that their wine is being stored in optimal conditions, while maintaining a premium aesthetic.” The next generation of wine cabinets is focused on three key areas: precision, quiet operation and integration. Advances in temperature accuracy, vibration reduction and low-noise performance are helping manufacturers create even better environments for wine storage. The Vintec Luxe Premiere is the brand’s flagship wine cabinet and reflects the evolution of wine storage into a premium kitchen solution. “Designed in Sweden, it combines sophisticated
Vintec Luxe Premiere
`Dual temperature zones for storage and serving flexibility `Flush-fit installation with slimmer depth for seamless integration `Low-vibration, extendable ash wood shelving to protect wine quality `Push-to-open door and fingerprint-resistant glass finish `Full-colour TFT control screen for intuitive management of storage conditions RRP: $6,849
aesthetics with advanced wine preservation technology, including dual temperature zones, a flush-fit design, low-vibration shelving and a premium push-to-open door system. With capacity for up to 120 bottles, the cabinet is designed to both protect and showcase wine collections,” Davies said. “Owners also gain access to Vintec Club, an exclusive community offering wine education, curated experiences and industry benefits, extending the ownership experience beyond the product itself.” Vintec believes education within the category starts with showing consumers the difference between dedicated wine storage and alternative options such as a standard kitchen refrigerator, which is typically too cold and too dry, while cupboards are often subject to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. “Retailers can effectively demonstrate the value of wine cabinets by highlighting their ability to maintain stable storage conditions, which helps preserve wine quality over time.” AR
AR WINE CABINETS Fisher & Paykel says consumers increasingly understand that wine requires more specialised storage conditions than a standard refrigerator can provide. Key features being prioritised include dual or multi-temperature zones, stable temperature control, low vibration technology, UV-protected glass doors and humidity management systems. Design is also becoming increasingly important including sleek premium finishes, seamless integration, flush installation options and premium materials. Over the next 12 months, Fisher & Paykel expects innovation to focus on preservation performance, premium design integration and connectivity. “Manufacturers continue to invest in more precise temperature and humidity management systems that create optimal storage environments for a wider range of wine styles. Advances in compressor technology are also delivering quieter operation and reduced vibration, which are critical factors for long-term wine storage.
FISHER & PAYKEL
Radhika Menon Senior Product Manager The rise of premium kitchen design and home entertaining are having a significant impact on the wine storage category, according to Fisher & Paykel. Increasingly, consumers are viewing wine cabinets as lifestyle products that complement the overall design and functionality of the home. “As kitchens become more integrated with living and entertaining spaces, there is growing demand for wine cabinets that combine performance with aesthetics,” Radhika Menon said. “We’re also seeing greater appreciation for wine as an experience rather than simply a beverage purchase. Consumers are investing more in premium wines and recognising the importance of storing them correctly to preserve flavour, quality and value.” Historically, wine cabinets were primarily purchased by enthusiasts and collectors, but today, the category has broadened considerably with growth driven by wine enthusiasts, design-conscious homeowners, renovators and consumers creating dedicated entertaining spaces within the home. “We are also seeing younger affluent consumers entering the category earlier, particularly those who value premium kitchen design and frequently entertain. Today’s buyers expect wine cabinets to deliver precise temperature management, low vibration operation, UV protection and sophisticated presentation.” 66
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Fisher & Paykel 60cm Series 9 Integrated Wine Cabinet RS6009V2RT1
`Accommodates up to 35 bottles `Two independent temperature zones to cater for different wine varieties `Four specialised wine modes for red, white, sparkling, and cellarstored wines `Designed to fit flush with 4mm gaps and no visible hinges or grilles `Quiet, low-vibration compressor and fullextension slides with white oak shelving RRP: From $5,499
“From a design perspective, we’re seeing growing demand for fully integrated and column-style solutions that align with broader kitchen design trends. Consumers increasingly want wine cabinets to appear as a natural extension of their cabinetry rather than a standalone appliance. “Looking further ahead, smart connectivity is expected to play a larger role. Features such as remote temperature monitoring, maintenance alerts and inventory management have the potential to enhance the ownership experience, particularly for consumers with larger collections.” Education remains one of the biggest opportunities within the category, according to Fisher & Paykel, as many consumers assume that a standard refrigerator provides a suitable environment for wine storage. “Retailers can add significant value by helping customers understand the difference between short-term beverage chilling and long-term wine preservation. Demonstrating how dedicated wine storage protects flavour, aroma and ageing potential can quickly shift the conversation from appliance features to protecting a valued investment,” Menon said. “It’s also important to position wine cabinets as lifestyle products. For many consumers, the appeal extends beyond preservation to include convenience, presentation and entertaining. A wine cabinet provides ready access to wines stored at optimal serving temperatures while creating a premium focal point within the home.” AR
5 YEAR
WARRANTY
COMPRESSOR
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LIEBHERR
“Precise humidity control protects corks and prevents premature oxidisation, while vibration and noise reduction preserve quality over years of storage. Seamless cabinetry integration and UV-filtering glass complete the range – none of it treated as an extra, simply what a premium wine cabinet should offer.”
Melissa Taylor Product Manager Entertaining at home has become the key driver of the wine cabinet category, more than people might expect, according to Melissa Taylor. Liebherr’s Vinidor range was designed with that in mind – wine cabinets that feel like part of the kitchen, not something added on afterwards. “It’s an extension of what we already do well in refrigeration: careful climate control, just brought into a piece of cabinetry that sits beautifully alongside everything else,” she said. It’s no longer just the serious collectors buying into this category either, with everyday entertainers accounting for a larger share, and Liebherr’s range has grown to reflect that. “Consumers want more than simple temperature control; they want to know their wine is genuinely being looked after, whether that’s a bottle for tonight or one being kept for years. Our multi-zone models, like the WPgbh 7473, are built to do both comfortably.”
Liebherr Integrated Wine Cabinet EWTdf 3553
Multi-zone control is now a standard buyer expectation, built into the Vinidor range from the entry point up, not just the flagship models. Each zone can be set independently, so reds, whites and sparkling all hold their correct temperature in the one cabinet.
RRP: $9,999
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`UVProtect Plus `HumidityControl `VibrateSafe `TempProtect Plus `SmartDevice
Consumers are increasingly looking for builtin, under-bench wine cabinets and matching beverage centres, especially where a full-height cabinet doesn’t suit the kitchen layout. Liebherr will introduce new models within this segment over the next 12 months, “giving retailers a genuine solution for these smaller-footprint kitchens without compromising on the zone accuracy, humidity control and finish quality customers expect from the wider range”. Taylor added: “The best way for customers to experience Liebherr wine solutions is for them to see it for themselves. Walking someone through the precision of our multi-zone temperature control, the accuracy of our humidity management, and the vibration and noise reduction built into every Vinidor cabinet gives them a real sense of what’s protecting their bottles day to day. When customers understand that these features are working together to genuinely care for their wine, not just store it, the value of a dedicated cabinet becomes obvious.” AR
WINE CABINETS AR
V-ZUG
Sally Lukey Head of Marketing Wine Cabinets As kitchens become more closely connected to entertaining and living spaces, wine storage is increasingly being considered part of the overall kitchen and interior design, according to V-ZUG. “For premium consumers, a wine cabinet is not simply a place to store bottles; it can become an extension of the entertaining experience. V-ZUG wine cabinets are designed around this idea, combining precise storage conditions with presentation, lighting and materials that complement a premium kitchen,” Sally Lukey said. The category is particularly relevant to homeowners who entertain regularly, have a wine collection or are looking to create a more considered entertaining environment at home. Expectations have evolved beyond simply having somewhere to keep wine cool. “Consumers increasingly want precise temperature control, quality materials, ease of access and an appliance that looks and feels beautiful.” Temperature control is important, particularly for consumers storing different wine styles. V-ZUG’s wine cabinets offer separate climate zones, allowing wines such as reds and whites to be stored at their preferred temperatures. “Protection is equally important, with features including climate and humidity control, vibration management and triple-layer glass designed to protect wine from UV light in the V6000 Supreme,” Lukey said. “From a design perspective, fully integrated installation, premium materials, flexible beech wood shelving and considered lighting allow the appliance to become part of the kitchen rather than an afterthought. Our WineCooler V4000 in the 45cm and 90cm options provide an integrated solution for more compact spaces, especially when aesthetics are top of mind.” V-ZUG sees the next generation of wine storage being defined by preservation, presentation and ease of use because consumers want professionallevel storage conditions, but they also want to enjoy and display their collection. “Features such as independently controlled temperature zones, presentation shelving, sophisticated lighting, soft-close mechanisms and quieter operation are examples of how wine cabinets are becoming increasingly refined.
V-ZUG 45cm WineCooler V4000
`Dedicated wine storage designed specifically to provide the right environment for storing and serving wine `Temperature control maintains a consistent environment to help preserve wine at its best `Integrated design to sit seamlessly within a premium kitchen environment `Sophisticated presentation allows wine to become part of the kitchen and entertaining experience `V-ZUG design and craftsmanship combines Swiss precision with understated, contemporary aesthetics RRP: $7,800
“V-ZUG’s WineCooler V6000 Supreme brings these elements together with climate, humidity and vibration control, two temperature zones and flexible beech wood shelving. The WineCooler V4000 options showcase a unique presentation shelf to display your favourite bottle, alongside a complementing timber serving tray for your decanter.” When asked how retailers better educate shoppers and demonstrate the value of the category, Lukey said the key is to move the conversation from simply cooling wine to protecting and enhancing the wine experience. “Retailers can explain how temperature, humidity, light and vibration can influence wine storage and why a dedicated cabinet provides a more controlled environment than a standard refrigerator. Demonstrating the product by showing the temperature zones, shelving, presentation function and lighting helps consumers understand that a premium wine cabinet is both a preservation solution and an entertaining feature.” AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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AR WINE CABINETS Expectations are also becoming more sophisticated with buyers looking for multiple temperature zones, quieter operation, quality wooden shelving, UV-protected glass and more consistent temperature management. “Stable temperature is the foundation of effective wine storage. Dual-zone and triple-zone cabinets allow consumers to store different wine styles at appropriate temperatures within the same appliance. At the same time, the cabinet needs to integrate cleanly with the surrounding kitchen and provide easy access to bottles of different shapes and sizes.”
ARTUSI
Evan Manolis Head of Product Artusi believes wine storage is increasingly being considered during the initial kitchen design process, rather than added after the kitchen is completed. As consumers invest in premium cabinetry, butler’s pantries, home bars and entertaining areas, they are looking for dedicated wine storage that complements the broader appliance package. “This is moving the category beyond the traditional freestanding wine cellar. Underbench, semi-integrated and fully integrated models allow wine storage to form part of the kitchen architecture, while glass-fronted models can create a strong visual feature,” Evan Manolis said. “Home entertaining is also broadening the opportunity. Consumers want wine, sparkling wine and other beverages stored close to the areas where they will be served. This is creating demand across a much wider range of capacities from compact underbench solutions through to fullheight, multi-zone cabinets.” And growth is no longer being driven only by serious wine collectors. Renovators, designconscious homeowners, apartment owners, developers and consumers who regularly entertain at home are all becoming important to the category. “These customers may not own hundreds of bottles, but they understand that wine should be stored differently from everyday food and beverages.” 70
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Artusi SemiIntegrated Wine Cabinet AINT1788WINE
`Full-height, semiintegrated design with a premium glass front `Triple-zone temperature management `Capacity for up to 88 standard wine bottles `Broad temperature range of approximately 5°C to 20°C `Triple-layer glass door providing additional protection and insulation RRP: $5,999
Moving forward, the most important development within the category will be the expansion of fully and semi-integrated wine storage as it gives kitchen designers greater freedom and allows wine cabinets to be coordinated with integrated refrigerators and freezers. Artusi’s upcoming range reflects this shift. The AINT1788WINE introduces a full-height, semi-integrated glassfronted format with triple-zone storage and capacity for up to 88 bottles. The AINT119GWE provides a compact, semi-integrated dualzone option, and the AINT119WINE offers a fully integrated, panel-ready solution that can disappear behind the surrounding cabinetry. “We also expect to see improved glazing, quieter compressor technology, better shelf mechanisms, more refined lighting and more precise temperature control. The focus will be on giving consumers greater flexibility without compromising kitchen design.” When it comes to consumer education, Artusi says the first step is to explain that a wine cabinet is not simply a small refrigerator, which is generally too cold for long-term wine storage and is subject to frequent door openings, vibration, changing humidity and food odours. “Retailers should then establish how the customer intends to use the product. Someone who wants wine ready for weekend entertaining has different requirements from a customer building a collection for longer-term cellaring,” Manolis said. “Working displays are especially effective to demonstrate temperature zones, slide-out shelves, lighting, bottle access and installation options in a way that specifications alone cannot. “The category should also be discussed earlier in the customer journey. When wine storage is presented alongside cooking, refrigeration and kitchen-design decisions, it becomes part of the complete kitchen solution rather than an optional accessory.” AR
CHRISTMAS AR
OUTLOOK
A cautionary sale for Christmas BY KYMBERLY MARTIN Australian retailers are racing to adapt as online marketplaces, rising retail crime and renewed costof-living pressures collide ahead of the all-important holiday trading season, with softer growth expectations and tighter margins looming over the year ahead. Retailer sentiment towards the holiday trading period has slipped from last year’s highs, with 77% expecting sales growth this season compared to 84% last year, while margin expectations have softened, Deloitte’s annual Retail Report data revealed. And 34% of consumers plan to respond to the costof-living squeeze by restricting their spending, with 32% switching to cheaper options while 11% expect to delay purchases this holiday season. Retailers are also approaching the next 12 months with greater caution. Just 52% expect consumer confidence to improve, down from 74% last year, while 19% expect it to deteriorate, as cost pressures, competition and macroeconomic uncertainty continue to weigh on sentiment. Online marketplaces have moved from a fringe competitor to a mainstream part of the Australian shopping journey, impacting shopper expectations in terms of price, choice and service. Nearly half of consumers (48%) now often, or always, consider ultra-lowcost online marketplaces when shopping online, while a further 28% consider them at least some of the time. Their appeal is not limited to lower-income households, with 67% of consumers earning $200,000 or more always or often considering these platforms. Almost eight in 10 retailers (79%) are concerned about competition from online marketplaces, while 61% cite online marketplaces as a source of increased competition over the next 12 months, up from 28% last year.
Consumer adoption of AI-assisted shopping is building, with consumers most willing to use AI for practical parts of the shopping journey such as comparing products and services, finding and applying discounts, and negotiating or price-matching. The strongest willingness is around tasks that help shoppers make faster, better-value decisions, with 63% willing to compare products and services, 59% to find and apply discounts immediately, and 55% to negotiate and price-match. “Retailers need to start getting ready for the agentic customer by adapting their propositions, experiences, channels, pricing and value capture. Those that connect agentic AI to trusted product data, availability, pricing, fulfilment and service will be best placed to participate in this new ecosystem,” Deloitte retail sector lead, Louise Heath said. According to NielsenIQ data for the 12 months to June 2026, fryers were the strongest performing category within benchtop appliances, with revenue and units increasing 12% and 10% respectively. Growth is evident for larger and more versatile fryer formats such as multi-basket models up 23%, with demand emerging for single transparent container types. Multi cookers with air frying function also delivered solid value growth. There was also growing demand for versatile food preparation solutions, such as food processors, that address multiple preparation tasks from interchangeable attachments. In the personal care segment hot hair stylers and straighteners were the standout performers, however sales for hair dryers declined but did benefit from an uplift in sales from key events such as Black Friday up 16%, and Mother’s Day up 20%. www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Consumers already have many of the appliances they need, so simply adding another feature isn’t enough. They need to immediately understand why a new product will make a meaningful difference to their everyday routine. SUNBEAM
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Niall O’Reilly Head of Sales – Appliances Christmas 2025 was a strong trading period for Sunbeam, with Boxing Day sales slightly outperforming Black Friday, and both key promotional periods delivering growth on the previous year. This performance was driven by strong results across cooking and breakfast categories, complemented by a compelling coffee offering. “As cost-of-living pressures continue, we believe consumers are increasingly looking for trusted brands that offer quality, performance and genuine value, and we expect this to play an important role throughout the key Christmas sales period,” Niall O’Reilly noted. To support this momentum, Sunbeam has a strong pipeline of offers across key categories, giving retail partners openings to engage consumers throughout the Black Friday, Christmas and Boxing Day trading periods. Cooking, coffee and breakfast appliances will be important gifting and upgrading categories this Christmas. “Many consumers already own an air fryer, so this is about giving them a compelling reason to upgrade. Greater versatility, healthier cooking options, and technology that delivers noticeably better results are increasingly important.” O’Reilly said Sunbeam’s 2026 launches addressed this through the innovative Multi Zone Steam Air Fryer and Alinea Wide Ceramic Air Fryer. Coffee also presents another sales window as consumers continue looking for café-quality results at home, but with solutions suited to different levels of experience, available space and desired convenience. Breakfast appliances remain highly giftable, with consumers increasingly considering how appliances complement the look of their kitchens. 72
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Sunbeam MultiZone Steam Air Fryer AFP6100BK
`SteamFry technology delivers a crisp exterior helping food remain juicy inside `Dual and singlezone cooking for different types of food with stainless steel removable divider `Steam Clean button for hassle-free cleaning `240 degrees Turbo Crisp function for extra crispness `Large 11L capacity RRP: $399
And the biggest opportunity is in the upgrade cycle. “Consumers already have many of the appliances they need, so simply adding another feature isn’t enough. They need to immediately understand why a new product will make a meaningful difference to their everyday routine. Consumers face an increasingly crowded appliance market and find it difficult to distinguish between brands or understand which features genuinely improve their experience.” Sunbeam launches are supported by an integrated marketing approach designed to drive awareness, engagement and ultimately sales. This includes media, brand ambassadors, always-on social activity, influencers and UGC content, and a unique Fry-Thru event, supported by strong instore activations such as GWP, recipe brochures, and end-cap programs. “In cooking we bring this activity together around a simple, relevant consumer question: “What’s for dinner?” This allows us to connect our products to everyday meal solutions and help convert inspiration into purchase.” Sunbeam is bringing a strong pipeline of innovation across multiple categories and price points. Each launch has been designed around an everyday consumer need, whether that’s achieving better cooking results, saving time and bench space, making café-quality coffee more accessible, or bringing affordable style into the kitchen. AR
Perfectly crisp. Incredibly juicy. Christmas made easy.
Multi Zone Steam Air Fryer AFP6100BK
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Dreame Pocket Cake Hair Dryer
`Lightweight, foldable design for travel and everyday use `110,000rpm high-speed motor supports fast drying in around three minutes `350 million negative ions/cm³ help smooth frizz and tame flyaways `Dedicated styling nozzle provides precise, controlled airflow `Available in four fashion-led colourways
DREAME
Harold Xu Head of Marketing – ANZ Christmas 2025 was strong for Dreame, delivering positive average selling price growth and solid results across its new product range, building on momentum from significantly wider retail distribution and a curated personal care portfolio. The range is designed to perform across the price spectrum with accessible, gift-ready products such as the Pocket Cake hair dryer supporting volume and foot traffic, while the AirStyle Era multi-styler, Pilot and Aero Straight Pro hair straighteners maintain premium innovation. New entries in LED skincare, IPL and men’s grooming also give retail partners more opportunities to grow in-store presence, according to Harold Xu. “Accessible hair styling is expected to perform strongly, led by Pocket Cake, with its entry price, foldable format and colour options that make it well suited to gifting, while opening Dreame to price-conscious shoppers and first-time buyers,” he said. At-home skincare should also attract demand with the Chrona LED Light Therapy Mask that aligns with growing consumer interest in selfcare, wellness gifting and professional-inspired beauty treatments that can be used conveniently at home. Xu said the strongest opportunities are in AIpowered personalisation, at-home beauty and the convergence of beauty with advanced technology. “Dreame’s engineering and R&D capabilities allow us to expand across hair, skin and grooming with intelligent, high-performance products.” Key challenges he cited were cost-of-living pressures, increasingly aggressive new entrants and the need to build beauty credentials against established brands. 74
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
RRP: $299
“Our focus is to offer value across the range while differentiating through genuine innovation, supported by PR, digital marketing and credible influencer partnerships. The Luxury Escapes partnership combines aspirational influencer content, product trial at pop-up styling stations in Chadstone and Bondi Junction, and a Spend & Win promotion with the chance to win a Maldives holiday package. “An extended partnership with stylist Diane Gorgievski followed Australian Fashion Week, where her use of Dreame products, personally and within her salon team, provided credible professional advocacy heading into Christmas. “Our strongest and broadest personal care range to date will be launched for Christmas, spanning premium innovation through to accessible, giftready products, with the addition of LED skincare, creating a new category opportunity for retailers. “We are supporting the range with upgraded beauty fixtures, consumer marketing and trial activity. This combination of technology leadership, broader price coverage and retail support positions Dreame as a strong partner for Christmas growth,” Xu said. AR
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Our strongest and broadest personal care range to date will be launched for Christmas, spanning premium innovation through to accessible, gift-ready products.
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dreame.com.au
Smart Temperature Control for Safety
AR CHRISTMAS “It presents an opening for consumers who remain willing to spend but are increasingly selective about where they see genuine value. “The continued shift towards cooking and entertaining at home is supporting demand across appliances and cookware, while Black Friday will continue to bring Christmas purchasing forward. The challenge will be the level of promotional intensity across the market, with retailers and brands competing aggressively for share of wallet. “Our focus will be on giving consumers a clear reason to choose Tefal through innovation, quality and propositions that deliver genuine value, rather than competing purely on price,” he said.
Tefal Infra Heat Flex 9L Air Fryer
`Infra Heat technology heats food directly, delivering 30% crispier and juicier results `Also available in Single Drawer 7L and Dual Drawer 11L models `Seven cooking modes plus manual mode `Patented detachable front panel for easy cleaning `Dishwasher safe non-stick air frying drawer and grid RRP: From $299
TEFAL
Jason Borg Marketing & Sales Director “The market is becoming increasingly competitive, so our focus this Christmas is on combining meaningful innovation with a stronger, always-on approach to building brand demand,” Jason Borg said. “Our ‘Smarter Together’ campaign will continue to showcase the breadth of Tefal across cookware, electrical cooking, home and seasonal ranges. The key difference in 2026 will be earlier activation, stronger innovation and closer alignment between brand activity and retail execution, allowing us to build demand earlier and maximise conversion through the ‘Golden Quarter.’” “As consumers seek greater value from cooking and entertaining at home, we expect strong demand across rice cookers, pressure cookers, deep fryers and air fryers, driven by versatility and quick meal preparation. The opportunity is significant given that 307,000 air fryers sold across November and December 2025, data from GfK showed. 76
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Tefal’s marketing strategy will focus on creating demand early and amplifying it through key retail moments. This includes bringing the ‘Smarter Together’ campaign to life again, showcasing how Tefal products work across the home, from cooking and food preparation to cleaning and garment care. “There will also be a significant push on the latest Air Fryer innovation, with new technology designed to deliver an improved taste experience.” There will be a major new product launch specifically for single-person and smaller households, opening an opportunity to attract new consumers into the category with digital, social, influencer and retail media bringing these stories to life. “Our message to retail partners is that we have a significant opportunity to win Christmas together, but preparation and execution will be critical. We want to build our plans collaboratively and early, ensuring the right products and stock are in place, promotions are agreed and ready to execute, and our key ranges have the visibility needed to capture demand.” With consumers increasingly starting their Christmas shopping around Black Friday, being ready early will be more important than ever. “Our focus is on strong joint planning, early execution and working together to maximise the full Christmas trading opportunity,” Borg said. AR
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Our message to retail partners is that we have a significant opportunity to win Christmas together, but preparation and execution will be critical.
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Win Christmas by making it easier to shop the category. Consumers are willing to invest in better products, but increasing choice makes the category harder to navigate.
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BREVILLE
Athena Kalos Business Manager Coffee Christmas 2025 was a competitive trading period, with value-conscious consumers and promotional activity playing a significant role in purchase decisions. For Christmas 2026, Breville expects the market to remain promotionally competitive, with an opportunity to drive value, rather than rely on heavy discounting. The opportunity lies in moving shoppers from entry-level products into higher-value solutions where experience and convenience are materially better, according to Athena Kalos. “Coffee is well positioned because it sits at the intersection of gifting, everyday usage and affordable indulgence. Outside coffee, premium kitchen appliances should also perform well, particularly those that deliver a clear experience upgrade, save time or have strong gifting appeal, such as food processors, ovens, breakfast, bread and ice cream makers,” she said. When it comes to the selling market, she said that rather than allowing Black Friday and Christmas to become purely price-driven events, retailers can use promotional traffic to trade consumers into products with better functionality and higher average selling prices. “Another opportunity lies in consumers looking to upgrade, followed by gifting.” The biggest challenge, Kalos said, will be the breadth of choice available to consumers during the Christmas season, which makes retail execution, staff education and product differentiation increasingly important.
Breville Kitchen Wizz Food Processor BFP710
`12-cup capacity `On-board storage caddy with colour-coded accessories with reversible shredder `Stainless steel 0-8mm adjustable slicer `Power, pause/play and pulse controls `Induction motor with 30-year warranty RRP: $649
Breville will be supporting its range of kitchen appliances with an umbrella consumer promotion throughout November and December, alongside major promotional events, digital/video content, retailer media, strong online product content, in-store displays and demonstrations, and retail staff education. Her message to retailers: “Win Christmas by making it easier to shop the category. Consumers are willing to invest in better products, but increasing choice makes the category harder to navigate. Our opportunity together is to simplify that choice, clearly differentiate each step-up in the range and give retail teams the confidence to demonstrate why consumers should trade up.” AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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BEKO
Eddie Gaymer National Sales Manager Christmas 2025 was Beko’s first trading season following its relaunch into a competitive market, which was more about introducing consumers to Beko small domestic appliances rather than chasing volume outright. “Awareness was still building with retailers seeing the range for the first time alongside us,” Eddie Gaymer said. However, heading into Christmas 2026, the picture is different. “We have significantly more retail exposure and a broader base of retail partners stocking the range, and the confidence already built in Beko through our major domestic appliances has flowed through to SDA, giving retailers a stronger reason to back us on shelf,” he said. “We also understand the local market far better, working closely with retail partners to ensure our pricing is genuinely competitive. With the combination of a wider distribution, established trust and sharper pricing, we should make this a meaningfully stronger Christmas than our first.” Coffee will again be one of the standout categories, as it has already proven to be a considered, highervalue category through the year, and that carries straight into gifting season as more Australians look to replicate café-quality coffee at home. Air fryers will also be in demand, despite the crowded category, and the driving force behind this is everyday usefulness rather than novelty. “People want speed and simplicity, and the ability to turn out a healthier version of a treat without heating up the whole kitchen. Versatility matters too, as cooking more than one thing at a time makes an air fryer genuinely useful rather than a one-trick appliance. Social media keeps fuelling that demand, with cooking influencers constantly sharing new recipes and ideas that give people fresh reasons to use, or upgrade,” he said. However, consumer confidence remains soft, and that’s shaping buying patterns in several ways, according to Gaymer. “Value-driven online shopping means many shoppers are willing to buy lesser-known brands for gifting because money is tight. Black Friday effectively opens the sales season by starting earlier each year and stretching it out, so there’s less of the frenzied, compressed rush toward Christmas that retailers used to rely on. At retail level, the market is flooded with brands, so floor space is at a premium, and retailer confidence is lower, meaning those big bulk stacks of previous years are less common. 78
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Beko Dual Air Fryer FRL6488
`Large 9.5L capacity `User-friendly digital screen selects cooking programs, adjust time and sets temperatures `Simultaneous cooking with dual-basket design `Keep warm function maintains food temperature until ready to serve `Two independently controlled, extra-large baskets for cooking different dishes RRP: $449
“The opportunity sits squarely with trust. When an unknown brand and a trusted one are priced the same, most people will choose the name they know, so a well-priced, genuinely trusted product still moves, and making sure that competitive pricing still protects the retailer’s required margin, not just ours,” he said. The company’s marketing reflects how consumers are finding products, with AI playing a much bigger role in the purchase journey. “Alongside social media and user-generated content, we’ve been investing heavily in SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) and GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation), making sure Beko shows up accurately and favourably when people research online or ask AI tools for recommendations. That’s been over a year in the making and not a Christmas-only push, so the groundwork is already in place heading into this peak period. “We want to offer customers genuinely competitive pricing, but not at the expense of our retail partners. Getting the balance right for consumers without eroding retailer margin is what our Christmas marketing and pricing strategy is built around.” Behind the scenes the Beko team have been training staff and arming stores with the product knowledge they need. “We see our territory managers as an extension of the store, not a separate function sitting outside it, and their job over the coming weeks is simple: making sure retailers are set up for a successful Christmas.” AR
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RVM AUSTRALIA
Philip Peclaris Managing Director Westinghouse SDA sales held steady over the 2025 Christmas season versus the previous year, with sales in 2026 likely to increase from onboarding new accounts and innovation. Portable induction cooktops, air fryers and instant hot water systems were the standout performers for Westinghouse small appliances last Christmas. “Heading into Christmas 2026, more innovations are being released that meet consumer needs for reliability, value, easier meal preparation and compact, modern designs, that give retailers compelling selling points to attract shoppers. The economic crunch continues to impact spending power, but we believe there is still an appetite for reliable brands that can make everyday life easier,” Philip Peclaris said. “We are bringing innovative and multi-functional small appliances to the market with a space-saving footprint. This Christmas we expect demand for portable induction cooktops and electric grills, as well as ice makers. The key opportunity is to tap into consumers’ interest in innovative or bespoke products that support the growing trend of homebased entertainment or homemade, restaurantstyle meals, because this is more affordable than out-of-home entertainment.” Peclaris said while Westinghouse small appliances are made exclusively for ANZ shoppers, it remains a genuine battle to get these products in front of customers in the hotly contested SDA category. “We are looking forward to launching several new products this Christmas. Five of our innovations will feature on TV in October, giving them strong exposure ahead of the festive rush.” AR
SMEG Air Fryer AFC01
`Seven automatic pre-set programs `Generous 7.3L capacity and PFAS-free ceramic non-stick basket `Exclusive dual cooking modes, Crispy and Juicy+Crispy, pair with water spritz technology to deliver golden crispness outside and juicy, tender results within `A flip-open design and see-through viewing window `Available in four colours RRP: $399
Westinghouse Non-Stick Electric Grill WHEG01K
`Heavy die cast, aluminium grill plate `Premium stone finish with food safe, non-stick coating `Integrated and removable drip tray `Variable temperature controls up to 200°C ` 12-month warranty RRP: $99.95
SMEG
Francesca Cissell Head of Marketing Christmas 2025 was a strong period for SMEG, with continued momentum across core cooking and small domestic appliance ranges as more Australian households looked to elevate their kitchens for the festive season. “In 2026, we’re building on that foundation with an expanded new product offering and a sharper focus on our hero ranges, giving retail partners more reasons to feature SMEG prominently across their Christmas gifting and kitchen renovation campaigns,” Francesca Cissell said. SMEG expects strong demand across small domestic appliances, particularly coffee machines, kettles and toasters, as these remain popular, accessible gifting options at Christmas. “We also anticipate continued strength in cooking appliances, with more Australians investing in their kitchens over the holiday period when family and entertaining take centre stage. Colour and design-led pieces will be a key driver, as consumers increasingly look for products that make a style statement as well as performing well functionally. “The key opportunity is the growing appetite for premium, design-led appliances as gifting options – Christmas is when style and quality resonate with shoppers looking for something special. The challenge, as always, is standing out in an increasingly competitive and promotionally crowded retail environment, where value and visibility both need to work hard at the same time.” SMEG said it remains fully committed to supporting its retail partners this Christmas with strong product availability, compelling new releases, and a brand that continues to resonate strongly with Australian consumers. AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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NINJA
Will Tran Senior Product Manager Christmas continues to be one of Ninja’s most important retail periods, with strong demand driven by consumers looking for practical gifts that deliver value long after the festive season. “In 2025, we saw continued momentum across our kitchen appliance portfolio as shoppers prioritised products that help simplify cooking, entertaining and everyday routines,” Will Tran said. A key driver of growth was the launch of innovative new products that tapped into evolving consumer needs, including the Ninja Luxe Café, which brought café-quality coffee experiences into the home. “In 2026, we’re building on that momentum with a stronger innovation pipeline. We’re entering the Christmas period with new product launches across key categories including coffee and food preparation, alongside investment in hero categories such as air frying, frozen drinks and outdoor cooking. This broader portfolio gives retailers more opportunities to engage a wider range of shoppers, from first-time buyers through to those looking to upgrade existing appliances.” Demand is expected to remain strongest across coffee, air frying, frozen drink makers and multifunctional cooking appliances. The frozen category will be a major focus, he said, and the success of products like the Ninja CREAMi has demonstrated a year-round consumer appetite for creating personalised frozen treats at home. Ninja SLUSHi Twist builds on this demand by allowing consumers to slush two different drinks at once and twist them together for endless combinations. Coffee continues to be one of the fastest-growing categories too, and multifunctional appliances remain highly attractive as households look to maximise bench space while investing in products that can perform multiple cooking tasks. The biggest prospects will come from consumers’ continued willingness to invest in products that genuinely improve everyday life. “Rather than purchasing appliances for a single purpose, shoppers are increasingly looking for premium, multifunctional products that save time, deliver consistent results and replace multiple appliances.” But the challenge, he said, will be standing out in an increasingly competitive promotional environment with more products entering the 80
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Ninja SLUSHi Twist Frozen Drink Maker FS701BRANZ
`Slush and serve two different flavours at once with 14 temperature control settings `Ninja SLUSHi Twist technology combines two frozen flavours into one personalised creation `Dual SlushAssist technology senses the ingredients and autoadjusts the temperature for consistently smooth results `10+ servings at once with 4.2L total capacity `No ice needed means no dilution, just fullflavour frozen drinks RRP: $699
market across key categories. “As consumers are presented with a wider range of options, including lower-priced alternatives, we are educating shoppers on the technology, quality and performance that set premium products apart. Features such as intelligent innovation, durability and ease-of-use are key considerations.” An integrated marketing campaign will span retail, TV, digital, social, influencer partnerships, PR and influencer content. “We will continue showcasing products in real-life entertaining moments, while recipe-led content, educational demonstrations and trusted creators help consumers understand how Ninja products fit into everyday life. We’ll also work closely with retail partners on in-store and online activations designed to maximise visibility during the peak shopping period.” Christmas is an opportunity to inspire shoppers, not simply promote products. “Consumers are increasingly looking for appliances that solve everyday problems, simplify meal preparation and elevate entertaining. “Retailers that focus on demonstrating product versatility and premium innovation will be best positioned to drive sales. With continued investment in innovation across multiple categories, Ninja is well placed to help retailers capture demand throughout the festive season,” he said. AR
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KITCHENAID
Michelle Lam Senior Marketing Manage KitchenAid’s Michelle Lam expects consumers to choose premium value during this key sales time, seeking top-tier quality product performance and design that fits individual budgets. “As a trusted brand with more than a century of innovation, KitchenAid is well positioned to meet this demand,” Lam noted. “Our expansive line-up covers everything from iconic stand mixers, blenders, and breakfast appliances to our KitchenAid Go cordless range, coffee makers, and newly introduced rice cookers.” KitchenAid’s 2026 Christmas initiative is centered on “making memories brighter” with a collection of small appliances in an “emotive campaign featuring local talent reflective of everyday Australian households”. “We are collaborating with retail partners to bring this Christmas campaign to life across physical and digital storefronts, by fuelling consumer interest and demand in the small appliance market through cutting-edge design and innovation,” Lam said. Headlining the Christmas collection is the Design Series Luminaire tilt-head stand mixer with an illuminated glass bowl set on an Artisan Plus stand mixer in crinkle cut powder blue. The matching Porcelain suite includes a new KF4 fully automatic espresso machine with iced coffee capability and a new automatic grain and rice cooker. The Pure Power blender is now available with a glass jar to pair with the Porcelain kettle and toaster. AR
Morphy Richards Ice Ball Maker MRIBM18BK/ MRIBM18SS
`Makes 60mm diameter ice balls for premium drink presentation `Ideal for entertaining, cocktails and spirits `Easy-to-use automatic operation `Brings a premium barstyle experience into the home `Unique and highly giftable proposition within the frozen category RRP: $695
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Clear product messaging, strong retail execution and online visibility will be essential.
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MORPHY RICHARDS
Stacey Pogorecki Head of Product – Seasonal, SDA, Outdoor ANZ Morphy Richards expects the frozen drinks category to remain a strong performer this Christmas, as it experienced in 2025, with a trend evident for products that combine convenience with at-home entertaining, along with growing demand across everyday ice making, beverage preparation and gifting categories. A key opportunity for Christmas 2026, Stacey Pogorecki said, is to build on this continued growth, while expanding appeal across a broader range of consumer needs.
KitchenAid Design Series Luminaire Stand Mixer `Fluted, hardened glass bowl `Integrated bowl light `Premium, dishwashersafe stainless steel accessories `Precision speed control with half-fold speed `Five-year limited warranty RRP: $1,249
“This category is evolving beyond traditional ice makers, creating opportunities for more innovative and differentiated products. For Christmas 2026, it will be expanded with a Digital Ice Maker and Ice Ball Maker, helping consumers elevate their entertaining experience while driving category growth for retailers. “Clear product messaging, strong retail execution and online visibility will be essential to attracting customers and driving conversion,” she said. Christmas activity will focus on showcasing the experiences these products bring to everyday life. Digital content, retailer assets and social media, will highlight their role in summer entertaining, cocktails and everyday refreshments. AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Year-round climate control – a selling opportunity BY KYMBERLY MARTIN Oxford Economics Australia has completed its latest detailed research into the Australian household appliance market, including an extensive review of cooling appliance ownership, usage and purchasing behaviour, in a survey of 5,000 households nationally. Cooling is now almost universal in Australian homes, with 96% of households owning at least one cooling appliance. Fans and split systems dominate, while ducted, portable and window/wall units remain important in specific household segments. Split-system ownership has grown dramatically, rising from just 6% of households in 2000 to 56% today, making it Australia’s leading form of air conditioning. However, there are clear differences across states and household types. Split systems are especially strong in Queensland, ducted systems in South Australia, while renters are much more reliant on portable air conditioners. In the split-system market, multiple indoor units are becoming more common, while replacement remains a major purchase trigger as many older systems reach the end of their life. Portable air conditioning has rebounded and continues to serve a distinct role, particularly among renters and apartment households. 82
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Bedroom cooling is common, while noise remains a key consumer frustration. Across the air-conditioning categories, the purchase journey is increasingly a combination of digital research, personal recommendation and retailer influence. Energy efficiency and running cost information are particularly important for split-system buyers, while retail staff and website content can play a meaningful role in shaping final brand choice. Preferred marketing tools favour practical, trusted information over traditional advertising. Online reviews, retailer websites and energy-efficiency information appeal strongly, while recommendations from builders/tradespeople, family and friends, and retailers/suppliers are also influential, particularly for ducted air conditioner buyers. Customer advocacy varies considerably across cooling categories. Split systems record the strongest overall Net Promoter Score at 35.5, followed by ducted air conditioners at 23.7, while portable remains marginally negative at -1.7. Among portable detractors, the leading concerns are performance below expectations and excessive noise, followed by energy efficiency/running costs.
COOLING AR It also features a motion sensor providing comfort when it’s needed and energy saving when it’s not detecting any human activity.” To support upgrades to more energy-efficient units with the latest technology features, consumers in Victoria and NSW may be able to access government incentives that help reduce upfront costs. Several MHIAA models are eligible across Avanti Plus, Avanti WF1 and Bronte WF1 Series, making upgrading to a quiet, efficient system more accessible for eligible households.
MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES Diana Dulevski Senior Product Manager
Climate change is contributing to longer, hotter Australian summers, with consumers experiencing higher temperatures and extended periods of warmer weather. As a result, air conditioning is increasingly viewed as an essential appliance for maintaining comfort at home throughout the year. “Consumers are looking for trusted brands that deliver reliable performance, energy-efficient operation and features that support healthier, more comfortable indoor environments,” Diana Dulevski said. “They are also placing greater value on features that improve comfort, convenience and control, while prioritising efficiency to help manage household energy consumption. “Consumers are actively seeking products that can help reduce running costs while helping them stay cool and comfortable. This is particularly relevant as many Australian households look to upgrade older systems with newer, more efficient technology that delivers reliable comfort without unnecessary energy use. “In addition, smart connectivity is becoming increasingly important, with consumers wanting greater control from their smartphone. On MHIAA wall split systems with built-in Wi-Fi, the Smart M-Air app allows users to pre-cool their home before they arrive, helping them come home to comfort without running the unit unnecessarily throughout the day,” she said. “Low-noise operation especially as more homes are built closer together and spaces are used for work, study and relaxation throughout the day, is another consideration. Modern systems like our Avanti Plus 2.0 - 3.5kW models which feature whisper quiet operation down to 19 dB(A) in ultra-low mode deliver cooling while operating quietly in the background, help maintain comfort without disrupting everyday activities.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Avanti Plus Series
`Efficient comfort control with Motion Sensor and Eco Operation `Built-in Wi-Fi to remotely control the unit using a smartphone and Smart M-Air app `Voice command compatible for smart home integration `Quiet operation down to 19dB(A) in ultra-low mode `LED brightness adjustment RRP: POA
“While upfront price remains important, factors such as running costs, smart functionality, comfort features and product reliability can deliver significant benefits over the life of the system. Educating consumers on the long-term value of investing in a higher-efficiency system can help them make a more informed decision based on total value, not just purchase price. “The most effective approach is to understand how consumers use their homes, including room size, occupancy levels and lifestyle, then recommend a solution that balances comfort, efficiency and budget. “Consumers should also look for a trusted brand, she said, as cost-of-living pressures have placed greater emphasis on products that are not only high quality, but reliable, easy to use and backed by strong customer recognition. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air-Conditioners Australia were recognised with CHOICE and CANSTAR Blue awards in 2026 and ProductReview.com.au awards for Bronte and Avanti Series Split Systems in 2025, “reinforcing our position as ‘The Experts in Air’.” Retailers can build year-round engagement by shifting the conversation from seasonal cooling to total home comfort, so rather than positioning air conditioning as a summer-only purchase, highlight the role of reverse cycle systems in supporting comfort across every season. “Modern reverse cycle systems provide efficient cooling and heating, making them a valuable investment across all seasons, so positioning air conditioning as a year-round comfort solution can help reduce seasonal purchasing behaviour.” Education around energy-efficient upgrades, smart home integration and government incentive programs can also support engagement outside peak summer periods. In addition, highlighting independent product awards and customer satisfaction recognition can help build consumer confidence throughout the buying journey, Dulevski said. AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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GENERAL AUSTRALIA
Josh Kuah Product Manager – ANZ “For the cooling category, the conversation is becoming less about responding to a few hot days and more about year-round comfort and control. Consumers are considering how an air conditioner fits into everyday life, including how efficiently it operates, how easy it is to manage, and whether it can perform reliably in demanding Australian conditions,” was the view of the market from Josh Kuah. “Consumers are looking for a combination of reliable performance, energy efficiency, and convenient control. Confidence that an air conditioner can perform during periods of extreme heat is particularly important, however they want greater control over when and how they cool their homes. “Smart connectivity is becoming an important consideration with technology that fits naturally into everyday life, combining reliable cooling with energy management, connectivity, and convenient control. Consumers expect energy efficiency, quiet operation, and smart control to work together rather than having to choose between them,” he said, noting that the next generation of cooling products needs to deliver comfortable indoor conditions while making systems simple to manage and helping households use them efficiently.
GENERAL Australia Lifestyle Next Reverse Cycle SETASTG09KMTC-NXT
`Seven reverse-cycle models with cooling capacities from 2.5kW to 9.5kW `Cooling energy ratings up to 5.5 stars, depending on model and climate zone `AnywAiR technology WiFi Adaptor II included as standard for remote control through the myanywAir Next app `Smart features including personalised schedules, Climate React and geofencing to help households tailor operation to routines `AI-based maintenance support for filtercleaning reminders based on operating data RRP: $2,069
Smart connectivity is a significant part of this shift. GENERAL’s anywAiR technology Wi-Fi Adaptor II, included as standard with Lifestyle Next, connects users to the myanywAiR Next app to control the air conditioner remotely and tailor operation around routines. Retailers have an important role to play in helping customers look beyond individual features and identify a cooling solution that suits their home, budget, and lifestyle. The right recommendations should consider factors such as home size and layout, how different spaces are used, comfort expectations and the customers’ budget. “It is also important to consider what happens after the product is selected. Professional installation can have a significant impact on how effectively an air conditioning system operates, while access to ongoing technical support and spare parts can provide greater confidence over the life of the system,” he said. “Colder and cooler seasons give retailers an opening to start the air conditioning conversation well before temperatures peak. Customers shopping for other home appliances may already be thinking about renovations, energy use, or improving their home environment. “Education is important and encouraging consumers to plan ahead can help them avoid the pressure that comes with making a decision during major heat events. It also gives customers more time to consider the type and size of a system that best suits their home and budget. “Retailers should position reverse-cycle air conditioning as a year-round solution rather than focusing solely on summer cooling. Discussing heating, energy efficiency, smart controls, and ongoing support helps demonstrate the broader value of the investment.” AR
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Retailers can also position reversecycle air conditioning as a year-round home comfort solution rather than focusing solely on summer cooling. Discussing heating, energy efficiency, smart controls, and ongoing support helps demonstrate the broader value of the investment.
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Introducing the New ELOUERA™ ZTA Series Award-Winning Comfort. Now in Black and White.
Ioniser Technology
Enhanced Energy Efficiency
Long Reach Airflow
Wi-Fi Control
Available in Black & White
Removes airborne viruses, bacteria and mould spores^ together with filtration and cleaning functions delivers our most advanced clean air technology for healthier indoor environments.
Designed to deliver year-round comfort while helping reduce energy consumption.
Delivering conditioned air up to 11 metres for superior room coverage*.
Built-in Wi-Fi for smarter control and Voice Command capability for seamless smart home integration.
A redesigned indoor unit with a sleek, seamless profile. White and matte black finishes for contemporary Australian homes.
* Tested on 5.0kW model ^ Based on Ioniser testing conducted at Kitasato Research Center for Environmental Science1-15-1 Kitazato, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0329, Japan, November 2025: 99% removal of Virus after 193 minutes, 99% Bacteria after 169 minutes and Mould Spores after 124 minutes.
Building on the success of MHIAA’s award-winning wallmounted split system range, the NEW Elouera™ ZTA Series brings premium design, advanced comfort technology and enhanced air quality together in one sophisticated solution.
mhiaa.com.au | 1300 138 007 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air-Conditioners Australia, Pty. Ltd.
AR COOLING
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Consumers are also looking beyond the product itself. Brand reputation, warranty coverage, established service networks and long-term parts availability remain important considerations.
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MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC
Peter Marsman National Retail Sales Manager Air conditioning has evolved from being considered a luxury to becoming an essential feature in many homes. Over the past three decades, Australians have become accustomed to air-conditioned environments across workplaces, schools, shopping centres and other public spaces, and increasingly expect that same level of comfort within their homes. Changing weather patterns and periods of more extreme temperatures are also influencing demand, encouraging more households to consider air conditioning as an important part of creating a comfortable and functional home environment. At the same time, the way Australians use their homes continues to evolve. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements mean people are spending more time at home throughout the day, increasing expectations around year-round indoor comfort. Peter Marsman said a growing proportion of consumers are now entering the replacement market, after having previously owned and operated an air conditioning system, and these customers are generally more informed and discerning about the features they value. Quiet operation, ease of cleaning and maintenance, convenient controls and smart connectivity are increasingly influencing purchasing decisions too. “However, consumers are also looking beyond the product itself. Brand reputation, warranty coverage, established service networks and long-term parts availability remain important considerations when making what is often a significant household investment. 86
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Mitsubishi Electric Split System Air Conditioner MSZAP25VGKD2KIT
`Stylish, contemporary design streamlined indoor unit `Quiet operation from a low 18 dBA in heating mode and 19 dBA in cooling mode `Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity for convenient control from home or remotely `Dual Barrier coating helps reduce dust and other contaminants on internal components `Designed for year-round comfort with reversecycle heating and cooling RRP: $1,578
“Household energy costs remain an important consideration for consumers while energy efficiency will play a significant role in future product development. The industry is also likely to see continued innovation around refrigerants and technologies designed to reduce environmental impact,” he said. Smart connectivity is another area transforming the category, with integrated Wi-Fi providing consumers with greater flexibility over how and when they operate their systems, including the ability to remotely control multiple air conditioning units and, where required, systems across multiple properties. Retailers have an important role to play in helping customers look beyond the initial purchase price and understand the complete solution. Consumers should be encouraged to consider the long-term ownership experience. Choosing a brand with an established presence in the Australian market, together with strong aftersales support, service capability and parts availability, can provide additional confidence, Marsman said. “Seasonal maintenance messaging can also create additional touchpoints throughout the year. Content around cleaning filters, improving system efficiency, using smart controls and preparing systems ahead of peak seasons help retailers remain relevant beyond the initial purchase. “Ultimately, moving the conversation from summer cooling to year-round comfort provides retailers with greater opportunities to educate customers, generate leads and build engagement throughout the entire year.” AR
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MILNERS
Kirsten Ewen Brand Manager Rising temperatures and longer heatwaves are driving a surge in residential cooling demand. Shifting lifestyles including a rise in working from home, and the increasing cost of living pressures, are changing how Australians purchase and manage cooling systems. Energy efficient systems continue to be in demand, as are single units that cool the room you are in, rather than the whole house. “Consumers purchasing Vornado cooling products prioritise whole-room air circulation technology over basic directional blowing, high energy efficiency via brushless DC motors, and precise multi-speed control. They also value whisper-quiet operation for bedrooms and our reliable five-year product warranties,” Kirsten Ewen said. The next generation of Vornado cooling products relies heavily on brushless DC motors, precise multi-speed customisation, and whole-room vortex aerodynamics that cut energy use by up to 80%, reduce operational noise to a whisper on low settings, and offer intuitive electronic control, she said.
Vornado Energy Smart Small Air Circulator with Remote 5303DC
`Whole room air circulation `Vortex Action technology moves air up to 22.5m `Precise airflow control with 99 variable speeds `Electronic push button controls and digital display `Energy saving 1-12hour timer RRP: $299
“For example, tag products for specific lifestyles, such as quiet models for bedrooms or heavyduty models for open-plan living, highlight key differences like oscillating features, remote controls, and adjustable heights. Some customers want oscillation or don’t understand the technology behind using an air circulator over a traditional fan. “Asking questions about room layout, window direction, and cooling preferences helps customers determine what model best suits their needs.” Vornado’s air circulators can be used yearround because they use signature Vortex Action technology to bounce a continuous, high-speed stream of air off walls and ceilings, that creates whole-room air circulation. These work by moving cool air in summer, pushing trapped warm air down from ceilings in winter, and circulating fresh air during spring and autumn. “While typically considered a cooling product, retailers can advise their customers of the benefits of using them in conjunction with their heating systems.” AR
Vornado cooling products are designed to complement air conditioning by evenly distributing chilled air, letting households turn up home thermostats without losing comfort. Retailers can guide consumers to the right Vornado cooling solution by size-and-room matching tools, clear tier-based pricing displays, and lifestyle-focused feature guides that map specific airflow needs like whole-room circulation versus personal cooling to exact models.
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The next generation of Vornado cooling products relies heavily on brushless DC motors, precise multi-speed customisation, and whole-room vortex aerodynamics that cut energy use by up to 80%, reduce operational noise to a whisper on low settings, and offer intuitive electronic control.
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www.applianceretailer.com.au
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DREAME
Harold Xu Head of Marketing – ANZ Cooling is becoming a year-round consideration, as warmer periods are encouraging demand for products that are effective, energy-conscious and easy to integrate into daily life. This trend is shifting the category towards intelligent solutions that adapt to the environment and individual preferences. For Dreame, it forms part of a broader whole-home strategy connecting airflow, temperature sensing, automation and control, according to Harold Xu. “Consumers want more than basic cooling power, with priorities that include whole-room airflow, quiet operation, temperature-responsive performance, smart control, energy-conscious operation and a design that complements the home. “For fans, the strongest proposition combines effective circulation with comfortable airflow and flexible control, particularly for bedrooms, home offices and shared living spaces. “These areas are increasingly interconnected as energy efficiency helps consumers manage running costs, while quiet operation matters with cooling products used during sleep, work and relaxation. “Smart connectivity adds convenience through remote control, schedules and environmental settings. Dreame’s connected-home direction allows compatible products to be managed through the Dreame app, moving the experience towards a more responsive home environment.”
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The opportunity is to move beyond a simple comparison of cooling output and show how different technologies solve different lifestyle needs. Portable solutions may suit targeted flexibility, while air conditioning is possibly more appropriate for larger spaces or whole-room cooling.
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Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
Dreame MF10 Bladeless Fan
`270° GyroWing Spatial Airflow circulates air horizontally and vertically `16x AirBoost technology supports stronger, longer-reaching circulation `TempSync sensing adjusts airflow as room temperature changes `Gentle Natural Breeze provides smooth, continuous airflow `App, voice and touch controls support personalised SceneMaster settings RRP: TBC
He said retailers should begin with room size and layout, then consider occupancy, whole-room versus targeted cooling, noise sensitivity, energy use, smart-home requirements, installation, budget and expected product life. “The opportunity is to move beyond a simple comparison of cooling output and show how different technologies solve different lifestyle needs. Portable solutions may suit targeted flexibility, while air conditioning is possibly more appropriate for larger spaces or whole-room cooling. “Retailers can broaden the conversation from summer cooling to year-round indoor comfort, positioning products around sleep, home offices, pet comfort, personal cooling, energy management and smart-home automation. “This also creates cross-selling opportunities across fans, air conditioning, air purifiers and dehumidifiers, helping consumers build a more comfortable indoor environment throughout the year,” Xu said. AR
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Three things dominate the category: energy efficiency and the impact on power bills, quiet operation, and smart control.
TCL
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Martin Patience Business Manager – Air Conditioning Australians are spending more time at home and treating comfort as non-negotiable. Longer, hotter summers and more extreme heat events mean cooling is no longer a “nice to have” it’s essential infrastructure for daily living. Demand is shifting toward whole-home solutions: multi-split and ducted systems that serve openplan living, home offices and secondary spaces, not just a single bedroom. Efficiency and running costs matter more than ever because systems are working harder and for longer periods of the year, according to Martin Patience. “At the same time, expectations around advanced technology, whole-home connectivity, and online and offline control are rising as people want cooler, quieter spaces they can manage easily as part of everyday life.” Three things dominate the category he said: energy efficiency and the impact on power bills, quiet operation, and smart control. “Shoppers want systems they can set-and-forget via an app, that don’t disrupt sleep or conversation and deliver strong cooling without punitive running costs. Inverter technology, better filtration for indoor air quality, and simpler zoning are also high on the list. Value remains critical because Australians will pay for performance, but they still expect clear reasons why a model is worth the premium.” These three pillars are now table stakes. Highefficiency inverter compressors and smarter control systems reduce energy use while maintaining comfort. Noise levels continue to fall, which is especially important for bedroom and open-plan installations. Connectivity with app control, scheduling, voice activation both online and offline, and integration with broader smart-
TCL VoxIN Series
`Offline voice control `Gentle Breeze mode and Smart Airflow `Inverter technology `Works with Google Assistant, Alexa and TCL Home app `Seven-year warranty RRP: From $959
home setups is moving from a differentiator to an expectation, particularly among younger buyers and those managing multi-room systems. “The brands that win will combine all three without complexity or compromise on reliability,” he said. And he reckons the best retail conversations start with the home, not the spec sheet. “Room size, insulation, existing ducting, how many zones are needed, and whether the customer prioritise upfront price or long-term running costs, these questions narrow the field quickly. “Clear side-by-side comparisons on energy star ratings, noise levels and smart features help. Staff who can translate technical differences into real household outcomes, quieter nights, lower bills, whole-home comfort, adaptive technology that fits modern lifestyles, close more sales and build trust.” In his opinion, pre-season education and earlybird offers in late winter/early spring capture intent before the heat hits. “Bundling indoor and outdoor units, or multi-split packages and finance options smooth the purchase decision. Service and maintenance messaging keeps the brand visible in shoulder seasons. Aligning cooling with broader home comfort stories with integrated heating and cooling, air quality, smart living and energy management gives retailers a year-round reason to talk to customers, not just a summer spike.” AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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OLIMPIA SPLENDID
Teisha Carroll Southern Region Manager Australian lifestyles have changed along with people’s mindsets. “Years ago there was a common misconception that cooling your home would cost hundreds on your electricity bill. The good news is your electronics can only draw so much power at a time and there has been a shift in prioritising comfort in the home,” Teisha Carroll said. “It comes down to simplicity and convenience for a product that has it all, with cooling, heating and dehumidification. Customers want value with an all-in-one solution. In addition to this, Wi-Fi is highly sought after because the main advantage is the convenience of controlling it remotely via a smart app. This way you can have your home at a comfortable temperature by the time you arrive. “We are always looking for ways to improve our products, for gaps in the market that provide consumers with a product they need. Seasonal products are a must, so having environmentally friendly refrigerants, quieter motors, ease of use and smart connectivity is always at the forefront. “Empowering retail team members with the right information is our core focus. We put a large amount of time and effort into staff training, ensuring confidence to qualify the right product
Having a product on the floor and running it is one of the most effective but overlooked sales strategies in retail. “When shoppers walk past an active demonstration, it immediately breaks down skepticism.
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or solution for every customer, so the stress for the consumer trying to work it out on their own is eliminated. It can be insightful to compare various brands and look at products with high return rates, versus those that don’t. “Portable cooling is a purchase based on area size to be cooled, rather than the price of the unit and it is important for retailers to take note of who has the best warranty as well as exceptional after-sales services. If a consumer has an issue, even after the warranty period, you want to know they will have some form of discretionary support.” She believes having a product on the floor and running it is one of the most effective but overlooked sales strategies in retail. “When shoppers walk past an active demonstration, it immediately breaks down skepticism. “A live unit acts as a continuous hands-on training tool that elevates staff education, allowing retail team members to master features naturally rather than through spec sheets. Providing functional displays also builds the retailers’ faith by proving complete transparency and confidence in our brand quality,” Carroll said AR
Olimpia Splendid COMPACT8 Portable Air Conditioner
`Powerful 2.1 kW (8,000 BTU) in a space-saving 35cm wide and 70cm high footprint `Automatically vaporises collected moisture saving manually emptying water trays `Built-in temperature sensing in the remote control ensures precise cooling `3-in-1 versatility with cooling, dehumidification and fan modes in eco-friendly R290 gas `Easy to move with integrated side handles and smooth rotating castors with window kit included RRP: $599 90
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
COOLING AR
DIMPLEX
Stacey Pogorecki Head of Product – Seasonal, SDA, Outdoor ANZ Hotter summers and more frequent heatwaves are making cooling products an everyday essential with consumers looking for solutions that help them stay comfortable, while keeping energy costs under control, according to Stacey Pogorecki. Consumers are looking for products that make life easier without compromising on performance. Features like remote controls, timers, quieter DC motors, multiple speed settings and app connectivity are becoming increasingly popular, particularly as people look for greater convenience and control in the home. “We’re seeing cooling products evolve from simple appliances into smarter home comfort solutions. Consumers want products that are energy efficient, quiet enough to run while they work or sleep, and easy to control through apps or smart home systems, making comfort more convenient and personalised than ever before.
Dimplex Recycled Portable Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier DCP33EB `3.5kW cooling capacity for efficient temperature control `Made from 25% recycled materials `Wi-Fi control via the Glen Dimplex Connect app `Two fan speeds for flexible cooling options `24-hour timer and touch controls for easy operation RRP: $899
“The key is making the category easy to shop. Clear product segmentation, simple explanations of key benefits, and recommendations based on room size, lifestyle and budget can help shoppers quickly identify the solution that’s right for them and feel confident in their purchase decision,” she said. “There’s an opportunity to position cooling products as part of a broader home comfort story rather than just a summer purchase. By focusing on benefits such as better sleep, home office comfort, improved air circulation and energy savings, retailers can keep the category relevant year-round and build stronger engagement outside of peak heat periods.” AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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TECO
Garth Hickey National Sales Manager – Retail Working from home has settled at a structurally higher level than before the pandemic, Garth Hickey said, with ABS 2025 figures putting it at 36% of employed people in August 2025, against 32% in 2019. “That is a permanent change in how many homes are occupied during the day and puts a cooling load on bedrooms and the study at hours when houses used to be empty. “There is also greater interest in products that can be used throughout the year. Reverse cycle air conditioning is particularly well suited to this shift because it provides cooling and heating from a single system, giving households greater flexibility across the seasons. “Consumers are becoming more informed about what they want from an air conditioner. Cooling performance remains important, but running costs, energy efficiency, noise, air quality, quiet operation and control, increasingly part of the purchasing decision along with Gold Fin coil protection against corrosion, particularly in coastal environments,” he said. These features are moving from being “added extras to important considerations for many consumers”. Consumers are also paying closer attention to energy ratings and technologies that can help manage power consumption. “ABS 2026 data found electricity costs contributed to increases in household living costs, reinforcing the importance of considering ongoing running costs, on top of the initial purchase price.” Connectivity has also moved past convenience. “Some electricity networks now run demand response programs that can briefly reduce an enabled air conditioner draw when the grid is 92
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TECO Inverter Reverse Cycle Split System TWSTSO26H3DVKT
`2.6kW unit adjusts output according to demand with 5.5-star energy rating `Gold Fin protection helps protect the outdoor coil unit against corrosion `Seven-year manufacturer’s warranty includes parts and labour for domestic and residential applications `Built-in Wi-Fi control with smartphone or tablet, Google Home support and Amazon Alexa voice control `3D Air Flow helps distribute conditioned air throughout the room with high density filtration and indoor self-cleaning function RRP: $999
under pressure, and a unit needs the right hardware on board to take part. TECO Platinum 3D carries a D.R.E.D. connection for this and is eligible under the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.” Retailers have an important role to play in simplifying the decision too, he said. “Rather than focusing solely on price or kilowatt capacity, the conversation should start with where the air conditioner will be installed and how the space is used.” Australian Government guidance recommends selecting the correct-sized system based on factors including local climate, house and room design, noting that an incorrectly sized unit can operate inefficiently. Independent Australian consumer organisation CHOICE similarly recommends considering room dimensions, window size and orientation, shading, insulation and local climate when determining appropriate air-conditioning capacity. “Finally, price the whole thing: purchase, installation, running cost, warranty and any rebate. In Victoria, eligibility under the Victorian Energy Upgrades program can decide the sale,” he said. “Seasonal education helps maintain engagement. During summer, retailers can focus on cooling performance and energy efficiency, while the winter months provide an opportunity to highlight reverse cycle heating and year-round comfort. “Retailers can also use quieter periods to educate customers about upgrading older, less efficient systems before extreme weather arrives. This gives consumers more time to research their options and arrange installation rather than waiting until the first heatwave, when installation times become longer.” AR
REFRIGERATION AR
Pressure mounts
– as French Door and Multi-Door configurations emerge as bright spots BY EMILY BENCIC
The refrigeration market remained under pressure over the12 months to June 2026, with revenue declining by 9% amid ongoing pricing pressure across the category, according to the latest data from NielsenIQ. Nonetheless, French Door types remained the largest segment, accounting for almost half (45%) of category value despite declining over the period, while Bottom Mount models achieved some incremental growth, with revenue up 2% and units up 5%. More broadly, fridges are experiencing falling average prices amid a more competitive market environment.
As of 2025, 45% of consumers considered environmental impact when purchasing a major appliance, NielsenIQ’s Home Appliances Outlook 2026: What consumers want report revealed. Energy efficiency was recognised as a top purchase driver with 90% of lifetime energy use occurring during product usage. In 2026, energy efficiency continues to be the leading purchase driver for major appliance shoppers. Australian consumers voted Samsung’s refrigerator line-up ‘Top Value’, ‘Most Reliable’, ‘Top Performance’ and ‘Most Recommended’ in Finder’s 2026 Customer Satisfaction Awards. www.applianceretailer.com.au
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AR REFRIGERATION “When it comes to the upgrade decision, food preservation has overtaken size as the priority. Shoppers want confidence that their fridge will keep produce fresher for longer and reduce waste, alongside energy efficiency and running costs.” Food waste is a genuine economic issue for households and cooling technology is where real innovation is happening to address that. “Hitachi’s approach centres on a vacuum-sealed compartment that suppresses oxidation, paired with a platinum catalyst system that breaks down the ethylene gas vegetables naturally release, slowing ripening and ageing. A dedicated moisture-cooling evaporator holds humidity around 80% at temperatures cooler than a standard fridge, preventing dehydration without freezing,” Beard said. Over the next 12 months, Hitachi expects two parallel tracks of innovation, and Beard cautions that retailers should be selective about which one they lead with. “Connected AI was the loudest story coming out of CES 2026. These features generate headlines, but conversion in showrooms still comes down to whether a fridge visibly solves a real problem,” he said.
HITACHI HOME APPLIANCES Mark Beard Senior Product Specialist
Hitachi Home Appliances has described the refrigeration market as “resilient but recalibrating”. Cost-of-living pressures and higher interest rates have made shoppers cautious, and the broader appliance sector is feeling the effects through tighter margins and greater reliance on promotions. “Refrigeration is more insulated because it’s needs-based; nobody delays replacing a fridge that’s failed, and it’s getting real support from rising building approvals and renovation activity,” Mark Beard said. “What’s more telling is how buying behaviour has matured. Consumers are weighing upfront cost against genuine longer-term value: energy efficiency, reduced food waste and everyday performance rather than capacity alone. In that environment, credibility and heritage matter more than ever, and that favours a premium player with genuine engineering substance.” Open-plan living has pushed cabinetry, benchtops and appliances into one continuous design statement, so shoppers want fridges that integrate rather than dominate. Households are also getting more practical, according to Beard, as larger families, multigenerational living and bulk-buying habits drive demand for genuine usable capacity. 94
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Hitachi 670L Made In Japan Multi-Door Refrigerator RGW670TAXW
`Vacuum compartment `Aero-care vegetable compartment sustains the freshness and nutrients of vegetables and fruit with Platinum Catalyst `Auto open drawers can be opened automatically just by touching a button `Moisture cooling chills the entire refrigerator compartment to retain flavour and freshness `VIP – Vacuum Insulation Panel achieves super energy savings compared to conventional urethane by preventing external heat entry or internal cold air escape RRP: $5,599
“That’s why the more consequential shift is quieter: deeper food science rather than bigger screens. Vacuum and humidity-controlled compartments, gas-suppression technology and precision sensor control are moving from flagship models into the mainstream range, alongside continued gains in inverter compressor efficiency and quieter operation. Sustainability is the other undercurrent, with the industry’s broader shift toward natural refrigerants.” With many configurations on the market, the most effective thing retailers can do is lead with a few practical questions around household size, shopping frequency, and how much entertaining or bulk buying a family actually does. “As a rough guide, one to two people can comfortably run a 350–450 litre bottom-mount fridge, while larger or multi-generational households increasingly need 600–800 litres and the flexibility of a French Door or Multi-Door configuration. Beyond capacity, retailers should be talking about how a fridge preserves food with humidity-controlled crispers, dedicated zones for meat and produce, and consistent temperature. “Hands-on demonstration matters here too; having the fridge powered and letting shoppers physically open drawers and see vacuum or moisture-control features in action builds more confidence than a features list.” AR
REFRIGERATION AR
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The MR-WX470F brings premium multi-drawer refrigeration and Japanese food-preservation technology to a compact 650mm-wide footprint.
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MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC
Peter Marsman National Retail Sales Manager The refrigeration market remains highly competitive, with consumers having more choice than ever before, according to Mitsubishi Electric. At the same time, broader cost-of-living pressures and economic uncertainty continue to influence consumer confidence and purchasing decisions. “With an increasing number of brands and products competing within the category, average selling prices are also under pressure, as consumers become increasingly considered in their purchasing decisions. They are looking beyond price alone and assessing factors such as design, functionality, energy efficiency, capacity and features that can provide genuine everyday value,” Peter Marsman said. The kitchen is no longer simply a space for food preparation; it has become an important gathering place for families and, increasingly, a design statement within the home. As a result, refrigerator aesthetics are playing a greater role in the purchasing decision. “Clean lines, premium glass finishes and contemporary colour options are increasingly high on wish lists, particularly as appliances become more integrated into open-plan living spaces. Functionality is equally important. Consumers are looking for technology that makes everyday life easier, alongside improved energy efficiency, clever internal design and maximising usable storage capacity within the available kitchen footprint.” Food preservation continues to be an important focus in refrigerator innovation, with Marsman noting that many technologies first developed for the Japanese market have influenced the way Australian consumers can now store, prepare and preserve food.
Mitsubishi Electric 470L Multi-Drawer Refrigerator MRWX470F
`Made in Japan `Smart Cube design maximises internal capacity while maintaining compact external dimensions `Hot Freezing uses an LED sensor to detect hot food and automatically directs cold airflow towards it `Soft Freezing allows food to be stored frozen while remaining soft enough to cut without completely defrosting `Supercool Freezing is designed to freeze food evenly while minimising cell damage to help preserve freshness, texture, moisture and flavour RRP: $3,899
“Mitsubishi Electric has a long history in this space. Technologies introduced to Australia with the E62 refrigerator range in 2011 helped provide consumers with greater flexibility in the way food could be stored. Features such as Supercool Freezing, Soft Freezing and Hot Freezing have continued to evolve and can be found within Mitsubishi Electric’s current WX Series,” he said. “These technologies provide consumers with a variety of storage options designed around different types of food and household needs, helping make meal preparation and food management convenient while supporting longerlasting freshness and reducing food waste.” Mitsubishi Electric expects AI to become increasingly influential, and while greater integration within products is an obvious area of development, its impact may extend well beyond individual features. “AI has the potential to influence product design, energy management, performance optimisation, diagnostics and servicing, allowing manufacturers to create increasingly intelligent appliances that respond more effectively to the way consumers live,” Marsman said. “For refrigeration, the opportunity is to combine these emerging technologies with the fundamentals consumers already value including food preservation, energy efficiency, intelligent storage, convenience and sophisticated design.” To recommend the right refrigerator, retailers must understand the household, kitchen space and lifestyle as a starting point. “The key is to move the conversation beyond litres and dimensions and understand how the customer actually uses their refrigerator from shopping habits to entertaining, meal preparation and fresh food storage.” AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Westinghouse French Door Refrigerator WHE6351SA
`Hidden in-door water dispenser `Automatic icemaker with XL capacity `FlexSpace fully convertible drawer `Twin Tech Dual Cooling `FreshSeal crispers with manual humidity control RRP: $2,999
need plumbing. Both remove a barrier that stops people buying the fridge they want, and both give retailers something to sell on other than price,” Davies said.
WESTINGHOUSE
Stephen Davies Category Manager – Food Preservation & Wine Westinghouse noted that units are growing ahead of value in the refrigeration category. While demand is holding up well, a lot of the volume is coming through promotion, so the category is “healthy on demand and under pressure on price”, according to Stephen Davies. “Australian kitchens are built around a fixed cavity, and most consumers can’t change it. That makes fit the first decision, not the last. Shoppers want the largest capacity that fits, water and ice, and a finish that matches the rest of the kitchen. Everything else is secondary,” he said. “Steady temperature matters more than any single feature. Sensor-driven cooling that recovers quickly after the door opens, and humiditycontrolled crispers, do most of the work. Food lasts longer because the environment is more stable and managed.” Flush fit has largely been aimed at renovators who can build the cavity around the fridge, although the bigger group is replacers, and they choose from whatever fits the existing cavity. “The unlock is a genuine flush fit: a fridge that meets the standard Australian cavity on all three dimensions – height, width and depth – without giving up capacity. That, and ice makers that don’t 96
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The new Westinghouse French Door Refrigerator WHE6351SA introduces one of the most significant innovations that the brand has brought to the French Door range in recent years: a hidden in-door water dispenser, discreetly integrated inside the door rather than on the front of the refrigerator. “By relocating the automatic ice maker to the freezer, we’ve created a larger ice storage capacity while freeing up valuable space in the fridge compartment. This allows the WHE6351SA to deliver an impressive 630L capacity, giving consumers the perfect balance of streamlined design, increased storage and the convenience of an automatic water and ice solution.” When asked how retailers can help consumers choose the refrigerator that best suits their needs, Davies said to start with the cavity. “Most shoppers arrive knowing roughly what they want but not what will physically fit, and that’s the one thing they can’t fix later. Three dimensions, plus the door swing and clearance, will narrow a wall of product down to a handful in under a minute. From there the sequence is simple: capacity, then water and ice, then finish. Confidence comes from the shopper being shown fewer options, not more.” AR
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The new Westinghouse French Door Refrigerator introduces a hidden in-door water dispenser.
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The Art of Preserving Flavour
AR REFRIGERATION
HISENSE
Michelle Wee General Manager – Marketing The refrigeration market continues to evolve as consumers look for appliances that deliver greater convenience, flexibility and smarter functionality in the home, according to Hisense. “Consumers are increasingly seeking premium features that go beyond simple cold storage, with greater emphasis on seamless integration and making everyday routines easier,” Michelle Wee said. “Reliability and functionality remain front of mind. As such, we are seeing the role of fridges in the kitchen continue to expand, which Hisense is proactively addressing through new products and greater features within the ConnectLife ecosystem.” Adaptability is a key consideration for households looking for refrigerators that align with their lifestyles, whether it’s accommodating a large grocery shop, meal prepping for the week or entertaining. “At the same time, shoppers want to maximise usable capacity without their refrigerator overwhelming the kitchen, driving demand for considered flat-door and slim-fit designs without compromising on fresh food storage features and connectivity,” Wee said. Other key factors shoppers are prioritising when upgrading their refrigerator include food safety and freshness, smart control and premium value. 98
Appliance Retailer October / November 2026
REFRIGERATION AR
Hisense PureView Slim French Door Fridge
`PureView Door allows consumers to see inside the refrigerator without opening the door `6.86-inch Intelligent Hub brings smart functionality directly to the refrigerator including food management tools, recipes, appliance controls and more `My Fresh Choice offers greater flexibility with a compartment that can be adjusted from -18°C to +5°C `Slim Fit helps maximise kitchen space with the slim French door design `ConnectLife app connectivity to manage food inventory and shopping lists, monitor the appliance remotely and connect with other compatible Hisense appliances RRP: $2,799
Hisense is also seeing households become more conscious of food waste with increased demand for keeping food fresher for longer. “AI-enabled functionality will also play a growing role, helping refrigerators become more proactive in managing food, reducing waste, suggesting meals and ultimately simplifying everyday kitchen routines,” Wee said. With many fridge configurations and features available, Hisense believes retailers play a vital role in helping consumers understand which product best suits their household and lifestyle. “From there, they can help translate individual features into tailored benefits, whether the priority is flexible temperature zones for entertaining or meal preparation, greater capacity for families, improved energy efficiency, or smart connectivity.” AR
WX Series MR-WX700C
Freshness for the Modern Household
Supercool Chilling Case Ideal for storing meat, fish and other perishables at approximately -3˚C to 0˚C without freezing, keeping food ready to cook – no defrosting required.
Soft Freezing† Allows food to be frozen for up to three weeks in a ‘soft’ state. This means meat can be easily cut without thawing.
Hot Freezing† Made in Japan
†
An LED Sensor detects hot food up to 80°C and directs cold air onto it to cool faster (saving time) while helping preserve freshness and quality.
Selectable mode for the Supercool Freezing Compartment only. Soft Freezing mode must first be enabled. Hot Freezing mode will automatically revert to Soft Freezing mode after about 9 hours.
For more information on our products please visit mitsubishielectric.com.au or call 1300 280 625 ©Mitsubishi Electric Australia Pty Ltd. 05/26. FR11828.
A Life More Electric
AR REFRIGERATION
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Side-by-side comparisons on energy rating, usable volume and key convenience features cut through the noise.
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Open-plan living, larger households and changing shopping habits have increased demand for greater usable capacity and flexible storage. “Shoppers prioritise energy efficiency, flexible shelving and door bins, humidity-controlled crisper zones, quieter operation and practical food preservation. As refrigerators become more visible in open-plan kitchens, premium aesthetics, including colour and finish, are also increasingly important. Connectivity is growing but remains secondary to core performance, layout and ease of use for most buyers.”
TCL Mega Series Refrigerator TRF590QHB `Five-star energy efficiency `2L built-in water dispenser `Pure Air, Metal Cooling and Multi Air Flow `Power Freeze/Power Cool mode `Humidity-controlled crisper drawer RRP: $1,599
TCL
Robert Oredsson National Sales Manager – Home Appliances TCL also made note of the competitiveness of the refrigeration market, shaped by ongoing costof-living pressures and highly value-conscious shoppers. Consumers are upgrading less frequently, but when they do, they want a meaningful stepup – better capacity and organisation, as well as stronger energy performance and features that help reduce food waste. “French Door and larger-capacity formats continue to gain share as kitchens and households evolve. Brand trust, energy ratings and practical design still drive decisions more than pure novelty. This environment plays to TCL’s ‘affordable premium’ positioning: delivering premium design, technology and features at a more accessible price point,” Robert Oredsson said. 100
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Multi-zone cooling, more precise temperature and humidity control, as well as better airflow are the practical advances that matter as features that keep fruit and vegetables crisp longer, slow bacterial growth, and maintain consistent temperatures. “The key consumer benefit is simple: food stays fresher for longer, which means less waste and potentially lower household food costs.” Looking ahead, TCL expects continued refinement rather than radical reinvention, with premium technologies becoming available to a broader consumer base. Better energy performance, smarter temperature and humidity management, improved food preservation and more flexible storage systems will remain the priorities. “AI-assisted controls and tighter integration with home energy monitoring are likely to move from premium ranges into more accessible models.” Retailers can help consumers confidently choose the refrigerator that best suits their needs by starting with the kitchen footprint and the household: how many people, how they shop, what they store most. Then match capacity, configuration and must-have features. “Side-by-side comparisons on energy rating, usable volume and key convenience features cut through the noise. In-store demonstrations of organisation systems and clear point-of-sale that explains real benefits – not just jargon – give customers confidence they’re making the right long-term choice,” Oredsson said. AR
REFRIGERATION AR
MIDEA
With the cost of fresh food and groceries continuing to place pressure on household budgets, reducing food waste is a top priority for many households. Flexible cooling modes and Platinum Fresh Purification air filtration are just some of the innovations in Midea’s Space Master refrigerator that help food stay crisp and last longer.
Adam Hobson Head of Sales The refrigeration market is in “a healthy spot”, according to Midea, with more people choosing better-built, energy-efficient and design-focused fridges rather than sticking to the basics. “Households are upgrading sooner, often because they want something that looks great in the kitchen and keeps food fresher for longer. Strong innovation across flexible storage, cooling performance and integrated design is keeping the category moving forward,” Adam Hobson said. When in the market for a new refrigerator, consumers are looking for more internal capacity without taking up a larger kitchen footprint. Midea’s SlimFoam technology and CompactCore design deliver up to 706L capacity in a traditional 550–650L fridge, making it easier for consumers to upgrade. “Consumers are also looking for flexibility. Whether they love making kids birthday cakes or prefer bulk buying groceries, Midea’s Infinite Shelf and Infinite Door Bin systems slide and adjust to fit everything. “Most importantly, shoppers are looking for the features that will help put more money in their hip pocket. That’s where energy efficiency comes in, as well as technological advancements such as cooling zones and air purification that help food stay fresher for longer.”
“The Vario Zone temperature control customises temperatures across three flexible cooling modes to keep meat, drinks, fruits, and vegetables stored at their ideal conditions for longer freshness,” Hobson said.
Midea Space Master 706L Quad Door Refrigerator
`20% thinner fridge wall utilising proprietary SlimFoam technology and CompactCore design, maximising internal space to a 706L capacity `Vario Zone temperature control `Built-in water pitcher `Automatic ice maker `Platinum Fresh Purification maintain a clean environment for food preservation RRP: $1,899
Energy efficiency is also at the top of the features list for many consumers who want one fridge that can accommodate all household needs. Technologies like Inverter Quattro, which improve cooling stability while cutting energy use, will keep gaining ground as cost-of-living pressures make running costs as important to shoppers as upfront price. “Space efficiency is also becoming a more valued feature in refrigeration. We can expect that while consumers want to fit more in their fridge, they don’t want it taking up a larger kitchen footprint, making Midea’s latest Space Master a real game-changer for the industry with SlimFoam technology and CompactCore design that shrinks fridge wall thickness by 20% to fit more in. “We’re seeing more people choosing to entertain family and friends at home, so the integration of clever innovations such as built-in water pitchers, auto ice makers and food freshness features such as multiple cooling zones are practical and useful features. Once considered premium features, these are now moving into mainstream ranges, raising the benchmark for what shoppers expect at accessible price points.” Midea believes that retailers can give shoppers greater confidence in the decision-making process by keeping things simple and asking about how they use their kitchen. “From there it’s about translating features into everyday benefits. When people understand how a fridge fits their lifestyle, the decision becomes easy,” Hobson said. AR
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Consumers are looking for more internal capacity without taking up a larger kitchen footprint.
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AR REFRIGERATION “With Fit&Max, we’ve engineered a new hinge design paired with considerably slimmer doors, so the fridge needs far less gap. In practice, it means the fridge sits nearly flush with surrounding cabinetry for a cleaner, more built-in look. “We’ve also moved ventilation to the front-bottom of the unit rather than the sides or rear, which is part of what allows that more flush fit without compromising performance.” From a food preservation perspective, LG’s smart Inverter Linear Compressor and LINEARCooling technology keep the fridge cavity within a tighter temperature band than a standard compressor cycle. DoorCooling+ builds on that by directing cold air straight into the door baskets. “It’s a good example of where the category is heading: less about one headline innovation, and more about being deliberate with how and where cold air actually reaches the food.”
LG
Shannon Tweedie Home Solutions Marketing Manager LG has seen the refrigeration market become more competitive and design-conscious with purchases no longer primarily driven by capacity and price. “Energy efficiency continues to be a major driver, particularly as star-rating expectations lift the baseline for what counts as a genuinely efficient fridge. At the same time, there’s competition emerging on aesthetics and finish, moving from stainless steel toward a broader palette of materials and finishes that suit different kitchen styles,” Shannon Tweedie said. “Shoppers are no longer willing to trade design for function, or vice versa – they expect both at a fair price. That’s pushing manufacturers to think more carefully about how a fridge actually integrates into a home, and not just how it performs.” LG has observed three consistent priorities among those upgrading their fridge: capacity, especially for larger or multi-generational households; energy efficiency; and, increasingly, how well the appliance sits within the kitchen among cabinetry, with the latter influencing the design of the new LG Fit&Max range with zero clearance hinges. “Historically, freestanding fridges have needed a reasonable clearance gap on the hinge side so the doors can open fully – which usually meant either giving up cavity space or settling for a smaller fridge,” Tweedie said. 102
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LG 436L Bottom Mount Fridge GB-B400P
`Zero clearance hinges `5.5-star energy rating `Door Cooling+ `Reversible doors `10-year parts warranty on compressor RRP: $1,299
LG also expects continued investment in intelligence and integration. AI-driven optimisation – inverter compressors that learn household’s usage patterns and adjusts cooling accordingly – alongside smarter diagnostics and food management features that genuinely reduce waste and energy use. There will also be more appliances that install like a standard freestanding unit but deliver the seamless, near built-in look shoppers have typically paid a premium price for. “I expect that space-maximising, almost flush-fit design philosophy to extend further across ranges and price tiers over the coming year because it solves a genuine, everyday problem for the growing number of Australians living in more compact homes,” Tweedie said. LG strongly believes floor staff are the difference between choice paralysis and a confident decision among shoppers, recognising that refrigerators are hard to compare at a glance when it comes to capacity, configuration, energy rating, features, and design fit. AR
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With Fit&Max, we’ve engineered a new hinge design paired with considerably slimmer doors, so the fridge needs far less gap. In practice, it means the fridge sits nearly flush with surrounding cabinetry.
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REFRIGERATION AR
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Retailers can also expect continued growth in premium design trends, including seamless kitchen integration, panel-ready options and refined finishes.
FISHER & PAYKEL
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Radhika Menon Senior Product Manager Fisher & Paykel has seen the refrigeration market remain resilient, despite broader economic pressures and cautious consumer spending. While replacement purchases continue to drive a significant share of demand, the brand is also seeing consumers place greater emphasis on value, energy efficiency, food preservation capabilities and long-term reliability. “Advanced cooling and preservation technologies will continue to evolve, with manufacturers investing in more precise temperature management systems. Energy efficiency will remain a major focus as consumers seek to reduce household running costs and improve sustainability,” Radhika Menon said.
“A good starting point is understanding how a customer uses their refrigerator. Factors such as household size, shopping frequency, cooking habits and available kitchen space often provide the clearest indication of which configuration will best suit their needs. “Beyond configuration, retailers play an important role in educating consumers on the real-world benefits of modern refrigeration technologies. Features such as advanced food preservation systems, flexible storage zones and energy-efficient operation are often most compelling when linked directly to everyday outcomes, such as keeping food fresher for longer, reducing waste and lowering running costs.” AR
Fisher & Paykel 538L Series 7 Quad Door Refrigerator Freezer RF605QNUVB1
`Recessed handles for a sleek look to complement any kitchen design `Stainless steel exteriors and solid glass for interior shelving `Slimline water dispenser and internal ice maker `ActiveSmart technology helps keep food fresher for longer by constantly maintaining the ideal temperature `Variable temperature zone to change a compartment to Chill, Fridge, Soft Freeze or Freezer for optimal storage RRP: $3,699
On the technology front, artificial intelligence and connected appliances are likely to play an increasingly important role. Rather than technology for technology’s sake, there is a shift towards practical applications that help consumers manage food more effectively, optimise cooling performance and simplify everyday use. “Retailers can also expect continued growth in premium design trends, including seamless kitchen integration, panel-ready options and refined finishes that allow refrigeration products to blend naturally into modern living spaces. “The biggest long-term opportunity lies at the intersection of connectivity, food preservation and sustainability, where smart refrigerators can help consumers maximise food freshness while minimising waste and energy consumption,” Menon said. Fisher & Paykel believes the most effective way to help consumers navigate the category is to focus on lifestyle needs rather than technical specifications alone. www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Artusi Fully Integrated Bottom-Mount Fridge/Freezer AINT7000
`341L total usable capacity comprising a 255L refrigerator and 86L freezer `Fully integrated 70cm bottom-mount configuration `Dedicated fresh food compartment for meat, fish and other perishables `Super Cool, Super Freeze, ECO and Holiday functions `Frost-free operation, reversible door, electronic touch controls and full-height LED illumination RRP: $4,099
Over the next 12 months, Artusi expects to see refrigeration become more modular and closely integrated into the kitchen design process. Rather than selecting one large refrigerator, consumers will increasingly be able to create a bank of cooling appliances incorporating separate refrigerator, freezer and wine-storage columns.
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“For Artusi, this will be demonstrated through the new AINT7100 refrigerator and AINT7200FZ freezer. These models can be installed independently or combined with the new AINT1788WINE triple-zone wine cabinet to create a coordinated refrigeration and entertaining destination.”
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When consumers are shopping for a new refrigerator, Manolis said the most effective starting point is to understand how the customer uses their kitchen and ask about household size, shopping frequency, entertaining, the types of food being stored, freezer requirements and whether the refrigerator is part of a renovation or a straightforward replacement.
Consumers should also be shown the inside of the appliance. Usable capacity, shelf adjustment, drawer access and door storage. ARTUSI
Evan Manolis Head of Product
Artusi was another brand to recognise the competitiveness of the refrigeration market with consumers being more considered about how and where they spend. Replacement purchases continue to underpin the category, but Artusi is also seeing strong interest generated by kitchen renovations, new builds and the growing preference for fully integrated appliances. “The market is becoming increasingly polarised. Value and reliability remain critical in the mainstream segment, while design-led consumers are prepared to invest in larger French Door models, integrated refrigeration and specialist configurations that complement their cabinetry,” Evan Manolis said. “Shoppers are also prioritising energy efficiency, quiet operation, internal visibility and usable capacity rather than simply choosing the refrigerator with the largest external dimensions.” 104
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“The physical space must then be considered carefully. Width, height, depth, ventilation, cabinetry, hinge clearances, door opening and access through the home can all influence which models are suitable. For integrated refrigeration, it is particularly important to involve the kitchen designer or cabinetmaker early,” he said. “Consumers should also be shown the inside of the appliance. Usable capacity, shelf adjustment, drawer access and door storage can be more important than the headline litre figure. “Finally, retailers should explain the differences between conventional, bottom-mount, French Door and modular integrated configurations in practical terms. When the recommendation connects features and lifestyle, the decision becomes easier and less focused on price alone.” AR
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PANASONIC
Ricardo Damani Product Marketing Manager – Refrigerators Panasonic has seen the refrigeration market remain competitive, with consumers becoming increasingly conscious of price and long-term value. Shoppers are looking for more affordable options but still expect good design, practical functionality and energy efficiency. “The Quad Door segment is important as consumers are attracted to the convenience and premium appearance. Panasonic’s approach to the market is to offer more accessible options that balance affordability with design and functionality” Ricardo Damani said.
SMEG 50’s Style Retro Refrigerator FAB38RCR5AU `Dual zone electronic temperature control `Multi-cooling no-frost technology `Life Plus 0°C drawer `LED internal lighting `481L total capacity RRP: TBC
SMEG
While consumers may like the appearance and functionality of a Quad Door refrigerator, there can be a perception that these models take up too much space. Slimmer Quad Door designs address this by providing the benefits of the configuration in a less bulky format, and appeal to shoppers looking for a balance between cavity size, capacity, functionality, appearance and price.
Rodney Manauzzi Product Manager – MDA In the refrigeration category, consumers are increasingly seeking products that offer more than simple cold storage, according to SMEG, with consideration incorporating a combination of aesthetics, capacity, flexibility, energy efficiency, and food preservation when making an investment.
Panasonic believes energy consumption will remain an important consideration, particularly as consumers continue to balance household budgets with long-term running costs. “Inverter compressor technology will continue to support more efficient operation by adjusting cooling performance according to the requirements of the refrigerator. Smart technologies that help improve operating efficiency will also become increasingly relevant, along with a focus on convenient features at accessible price points,” Damani said. AR
“We see consumers seeking appliances that complement the way they live while delivering meaningful functionality. Design remains an important part of the conversation, but it needs to be supported by technology that delivers genuine everyday benefits,” Rodney Manauzzi said.
Panasonic STYLE+ Edition XZ550 Quad Door Refrigerator
`Door opens with just 4mm side clearance for a flush, streamlined look `Automatic ice maker `Soft Freezing with Prime Fresh `Flexible storage space with adjustable shelves `4.5-star energy rating and ECONAVI technology help deliver efficient cooling with less energy RRP: $1,999
Kitchens have increasingly become social and multi-functional spaces, and the refrigerator has evolved alongside them. As a result, consumers want greater capacity and organisation, but they also want that capacity to work efficiently within the available footprint. “We are seeing strong interest in flexible storage, thoughtful internal layouts, and features that make it easier to access and organise food. The exterior has also become an important design consideration as open-plan kitchens make appliances a more prominent part of the living environment.” Over the next 12 months, SMEG expects innovation in refrigeration to remain focused on technologies that deliver a clear consumer benefit. While food preservation will continue to be an important area, energy efficiency will remain central to the category. “We also expect the relationship between technology and design to become increasingly important. For retailers, the conversation should shift from simply selling a refrigerator to helping consumers find the right solution for their home.” AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Samsung’s latest Family Hub upgrade has introduced FoodNote, which looks at the ingredients being used most frequently over the previous week and recommends recipes around them.
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“At the foundation, food preservation starts with premium cooling technology such as Triple Cooling, which independently cools different compartments to help maintain appropriate temperature and humidity for certain food types while reducing the transfer of odours between compartments,” Gaut said.
SAMSUNG
Phil Gaut Director – Consumer Electronics Recent months have proved challenging for the entry level refrigeration segment, while the premium market has shown growth. Samsung insights show positive sentiment among customers who feel they have secured a great price and great value with meaningful features from a brand they can trust. “Beyond brand, Australians are increasingly looking for French Door solutions that offer storage flexibility, larger capacities, and premium features like built-in beverage centres,” Phil Gaut said. Shoppers are looking for practical ways to bring convenience to daily routines such as larger capacities to unlock more space in the fridge, easy access to ice and cold water, premium designs, and energy efficiency that can help manage both household costs and environmental impact. “Beyond these expected features, Australians are increasingly looking for appliances that deliver value beyond their core purpose, leveraging intelligence and connectivity to make everyday life more convenient in new and meaningful ways.” Food preservation is one of the areas where refrigeration innovation can make a tangible difference to everyday life and has been an area of focus for Samsung for many years. With the Family Hub, Samsung helps consumers understand what ingredients they already have, to use them more effectively, and make smarter decisions about what they buy and cook. 106
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Samsung Family Hub+ 809L FourDoor French Door Refrigerator
`32-inch AI Home display is 2.1 times larger than a standard Family Hub screen `AI Vision Inside uses an internal camera to recognise food as it enters and leaves the fridge `Samsung Food can connect to the AI Vision Inside food list and help with recipes and meal planning `Knox security and ‘Diamond grade’ rating in an IoT security verification by UL Solutions `Auto open door and Internal Beverage Centre RRP: $7,399
“Tackling food waste from a different angle, features like Samsung’s AI Vision Inside uses an internal camera to recognise food as it enters and leaves the fridge, while Samsung Food can connect that food list with recipes and meal planning. It means families can manage food by use-by dates, reduce over-shopping and get recipes that use ingredients they have based on dietary requirements or health goals.” Samsung’s latest Family Hub upgrade has introduced FoodNote, which looks at the ingredients being used most frequently over the previous week and recommends recipes around them. Instead of simply telling families what is in their fridge, the Family Hub can help with, ‘what should I make with what I already have?’ “AI will continue to be the biggest driver of change in premium refrigeration, and Samsung is committed to working with partners and consumers on the value of an AI-powered fridge, which is designed to evolve, improve and deliver new benefits long after the shopper takes it home.” When helping consumers choose the right refrigerator for their needs, Gaut encourages retailers to start with the consumer, not the refrigerator as there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. “Ask how they live. How many people are in the household? Do they entertain or bulk cook? How much capacity and freezer space do they need? Would ice and water, smart connectivity or energy management make their lives easier? Then bring premium to life through the benefits that matter, whether that’s more space, easier entertaining, smarter food management, or greater control over energy use.” AR
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V-ZUG
Sally Lukey Head of Marketing V-ZUG is seeing kitchens increasingly being designed around entertaining, functionality and integration. Consumers want generous storage without compromising the design of the kitchen. “Features such as flexible shelving, dedicated storage sections, precise temperature control, energy efficiency and quiet operation are becoming more important. We are also seeing greater appreciation of high-quality, circular materials,” Sally Lukey said. Food preservation is one of the most important areas of innovation in refrigeration because performance can directly influence how long food remains fresh. V-ZUG’s ClimateControl technology uses active air circulation to minimise temperature fluctuations, while KeepFresh technology provides a moisture-controlled environment for fruit and vegetables. NoFrost also eliminates the need for manual defrosting in V-ZUG’s combined refrigerator-freezer appliances. “Together, these technologies are designed to create a more stable environment for food, helping with greater longevity for groceries and reducing unnecessary waste.” Over the next 12 months, V-ZUG expects the focus to continue moving towards considered design, as well as longevity through materiality and energy efficiency. “At the same time, we believe evolution should remain purposeful: design and innovation are most valuable when they make the everyday experience more intuitive, enjoyable and beneficial,’ Lukey said. AR
Liebherr Peak BioFresh Integrated Refrigerator IRBh 5170
`BioFresh Professional `InfinitySpring `DuoCooling `VarioTemp `SoftSystem RRP: $6,299
V-ZUG CombiCooler V6000 178NI
`MonoFridge converts the freezer compartment into an additional refrigerator zone when required `ClimateControl with active air circulation helps maintain stable temperatures and supports longer-lasting freshness `PureCool energy efficiency `SilentPlus is designed for particularly quiet operation `Swiss-made quality – designed, developed and manufactured in Sulgen, Switzerland RRP: $16,000
LIEBHERR
Melissa Taylor Product Manager The premium refrigeration segment – where Liebherr is positioned – continues to hold up well. As open-plan layouts become the default in homes, integrated refrigeration is now central to how the space looks. “We’re continuing to bring new features into our current integrated range in response to that shift, with a particular focus on freshness performance and seamless kitchen integration. InfinitySpring is a good example; a flush-mounted internal water dispenser, virtually invisible in the door, providing filtered, drip-free chilled water without a bulky external unit,” Melissa Taylor said. When it comes to food preservation, Liebherr believes this is where the brand differentiates itself most clearly. Examples include BioFresh technology that stores fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy in separate, independently controlled temperature and humidity zones rather than one shared compartment. “We’ve continued to build on this with DuoCooling, which keeps refrigerator and freezer air separate to prevent odour transfer and drying out, directly reducing food waste and grocery spend. It’s a core part of why we position Liebherr as a preservationfirst brand rather than simply a storage one.” AR www.applianceretailer.com.au
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What’s Hot Designed in Australia for more than 40 years
Designed in Australia and built for Australian conditions for more than 40 years, the refreshed BeefEater ProLine range is available in two premium finishes: marine-grade stainless steel and, for the first time, a finish colour-matched to COLORBOND® steel in Monument® – one of Australia’s most recognisable architectural colour palettes. Built to withstand Australia’s demanding climate, the marine-grade stainless steel models are engineered for exceptional durability, including in coastal environments, while the Monument®* colourmatched range features a high temperature-resistant textured paint system that delivers a sophisticated velvet-like finish without compromising performance. The refreshed range also introduces a new limited 10-year warranty** across the BBQ burner box, grills, trivet and plates, reinforcing BeefEater’s commitment to quality and long-term durability. Designed for both residential and commercial applications, every model is certified for commercial use and complies with AS4563 standards when installed in accordance with commercial catering requirements. Across the range, precision ergonomic controls with intuitive power level indicators for accurate heat management, together with electronic ignition for fast, reliable start-up on BBQ models, deliver a premium cooking experience designed to make outdoor entertaining effortless.
RRP: From $999 *COLORBOND®, colour names and TM colour names are registered trademarks of BlueScope Steel Limited (ABN 16 000 011 058). Colour references are for matching purposes only. This product is not manufactured from BlueScope’s COLORBOND® steel. BlueScope has neither reviewed nor endorsed the accuracy of the colour match. **10-year limited warranty applies to burner box, grills and plates on BBQ models (BSH158SB, BSH158DB, BSL158SB and BSL158DB), and burner box and trivet on side burner models (BSW318SB and BSW318DB). All remaining parts are covered by a two-year warranty.
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Your washer just got smarter
Beko’s CustomWash is an AI-powered laundry technology that learns from user feedback to deliver smarter, more personalised washing results every cycle. Gone are the days of guessing which settings will give you the best results. Beko’s CustomWash, available exclusively through the HomeWhiz app, is an intelligent wash optimisation technology that learns from real-time user preferences to improve every cycle. After each wash, the app prompts for simple feedback across five key areas: cleaning performance, program duration, detergent residue, wrinkle management and dryness level. The system then quietly adjusts future cycles in the background to better match expectations. No complicated programming or technical expertise required. CustomWash works across seven popular programs including Cottons, Synthetics, Bedding, Mix, DarkCare, Curtains and Outdoor Sports. The result is a washing machine that evolves with your lifestyle, delivering consistently better, tailor-made laundry results. The more you use it, the smarter it gets.
RRP: From $999
WHAT’S HOT AR
SMEG enters the air fryer category
Westinghouse SDA delivers matching Multi Cooker Duo
Westinghouse has introduced a new 19-in-1 Multi Cooker (WHMC01K) and matching Rice, Pulse & Grain Cooker (WHRC07K). Together, they’re set to change how Australians cook. The WHMC01K handles breakfast, mains and dessert across 19 programs, including deep frying, sous vide, baking and steaming (plus manual mode, keep warm and reheat). The WHRC07K is purpose-built for cooking and steaming the side dishes that make a meal, with 19 dedicated rice, pulse and grain presets plus a manual mode. While uniquely programmed to help prepare meals with one touch; both units share the same compact footprint, PFAS-free ceramiccoated 5L bowls, detachable cords, digital touchscreens, and keep warm and reheat functions, so they genuinely look and feel like a matching set on the benchtop. The units, and the interior non-stick bowls have handles too, and the WHRC07K features a stainless steel steamer insert. For retailers, this is a natural two-for-one story – one for the mains and one for the sides – making it an easy pitch on the shop floor. It’s exactly the space-saving, simplify-my-kitchen message that resonates with space-conscious Australian households.
RRP: $199.95 each
SMEG has stepped into the air fryer category for the first time with the launch of the AFC01, bringing its distinctive Italian design and more than 75 years of craftsmanship to one of the fastest-growing categories in cooking appliances. Available in four signature colourways — Black, White, Emerald Green and Storm Blue — the AFC01 brings distinctive SMEG design to a category that has, until now, been dominated by function-first, forgettable appliances built to be hidden away in a cupboard. Beyond the design, the AFC01 is built to perform. Exclusive dual cooking modes — Crispy and Juicy+Crispy — pair with water spritz technology to deliver golden crispness outside and juicy, tender results within. A flip-open design with a see-through viewing window makes checking, serving and cleaning simple. A generous 7.3L capacity is accompanied by seven automatic pre-set programs, while a PFAS-free ceramic non-stick basket means cooking with less oil and less compromise, without sacrificing results.
RRP: $399
Midea Space Master refrigerator range solves the modern kitchen squeeze
Midea’s new Space Master refrigerator range addresses the modern kitchen squeeze, delivering significantly larger internal capacity without increasing the appliance’s external footprint. Utilising proprietary SlimFoam Technology and CompactCore Design, the range features fridge walls 20% thinner than standard models, allowing the massive 706L Quad Door model to easily fit into spaces traditionally suited for 550-650L capacities. It also features the fully movable Infinite Shelf and Infinite Door Bin systems, while Vario Zone functionality allows users to customise internal temperatures across three flexible cooling modes via SmartHome connectivity, keeping groceries in ideal conditions longer. The Space Master range is also equipped with Platinum Fresh Purification advanced air filtration to eliminate bacteria and unwanted odours, maintaining a clean, fresh environment.
RRP: From $1,399 www.applianceretailer.com.au
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Store with precision and showcase with pride
For over 20 years, Vintec has been Australia’s specialist in climate-controlled wine storage and the number one preferred premium specialist wine cabinet brand* (*Kantar Brand Health Study, May 2026). Designed in Sweden, Vintec embraces a philosophy of simplicity, seamlessly blending form and function to create sophisticated wine storage solutions that preserve wine in optimal conditions while complementing modern living spaces. The new Vintec Luxe Premiere Dual Zone 120 reflects this commitment, combining advanced wine preservation technology with elegant contemporary design. Independent dual-zone cooling allows red and white wines to be stored and served at their ideal temperatures, helping every bottle reach its full potential. The cabinet features a seamless push-to-open door, a premium full-colour TFT display, and refined telescopic shelving enhanced with subtle gold accents. It is designed with a counter-depth profile for a seamless built-in appearance, while customisable three-colour LED lighting allows owners to create the perfect ambience and showcase their collection in style.
RRP: $6,849
Coffee that knows your name
Beko’s CaffeExperto now offers customisable coffee profiles via the HomeDirect app, letting every household member save their perfect brew. Your morning coffee just got personal. Beko’s latest CaffeExperto espresso range introduces BrewConnect, custom coffee profile settings through the HomeDirect app, turning a shared machine into everyone’s personal barista. Users can create up to four individual profiles, plus a guest mode, each with a fully personalised home screen and customisable profile name. Set up to four favourite beverages for prioritised display, so your go-to brew is always front and centre. The built-in Memory Function takes personalisation further, allowing each user to adjust and save their preferred water, milk and coffee levels for every drink individually. Once saved, there’s no need to tweak settings each time. Just select your profile and press go. It’s the kind of intuitive, app-connected technology that makes a premium espresso machine feel like it was built for you alone.
RRP: $899
SMEG Isola Alta puts cooktop design in the spotlight
SMEG has launched Isola Alta Pro in Australia, a new induction cooktop developed in collaboration with Milan-based architecture and design studio, Stefano Boeri Interiors. Challenging the convention that cooktops should disappear into the benchtop, Isola Alta Pro is designed to be seen. Its distinctive raised brushed aluminium frame and rounded, sculptural form create a striking architectural presence, while integrated trace lighting follows the edges of the frame to add a subtle layer of ambient illumination. Behind the distinctive design sits SMEG’s latest induction technology. VIVOscreen touchscreen control is accompanied by five built-in Smart Cooking programs. For greater flexibility, Multizone cooking allows two cooking zones to be used independently or combined into one continuous cooking area. A generous 27cm XL cooking zone provides more room for larger pots and pans, while Power Boost 5.5kW delivers extra heat for faster, more responsive cooking when needed.
RRP: $10,990 110
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COMPANY INDEX AR COMPANY
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AEG............................................................................................................................. 35 Anker....................................................................................................................30, 60 ASKO............................................................................................................................ 7 Artusi..................................................................................................................70, 104 Austere.................................................................................................................10, 11 BeefEater..................................................................................................................108 Beko................................................................................................6, 46, 78, 108, 110 Bi-Rite........................................................................................................................ 14 Bissell......................................................................................................................... 59 Bosch.......................................................................................................................... 31 BSH.............................................................................................................................. 7 Breville.................................................................................................................50, 77 BSR Group............................................................................................... 12, 18, 19, 20 De’Longhi.................................................................................................................. 47 Deloitte...................................................................................................................... 71 Dimplex..................................................................................................................... 91 Dreame.................................................................... 22, 23, 44, 51, 53, 55, 74, 75, 88 ECOVACS................................................................................................. 24, 25, 54, 57 Electrolux.............................................................................................................10, 59 EZVIZ....................................................................................................................29, 62 Fisher & Paykel...................................................................................................66, 103 GENERAL Australia..................................................................................................... 84 Haier.......................................................................................................................... 33 Harvey Norman...................................................................................................16, 17 Hisense.............................................................................................................. 8, 9, 98 Hitachi............................................................................................................58, 94, 97 IDC.............................................................................................................................. 52 iRobot......................................................................................................IFC, 26, 27, 56 JB Hi-Fi......................................................................................................................... 6 JURA.....................................................................................................................42, 45 KitchenAid...........................................................................................................50, 81 Liebherr..............................................................................................................68, 107 LG................................................................................................................ 34, 61, 102 Midea Residentia...................................................................................................... 36 Midea.............................................................................................................. 101, 109 Miele.......................................................................................................................... 32 Milners....................................................................................................................... 87 Mitsubishi Electric.........................................................................................86, 95, 99 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries...............................................................................83, 85 Morphy Richards....................................................................................................... 71 MOVA...................................................................................................................35, 62 Nespresso.................................................................................................................. 49 NielsenIQ................................................................................................ 40, 52, 81, 93 Ninja.....................................................................................................................48, 80 Olimpia Splendid...................................................................................................... 90 Oxford Economics...................................................................................................... 82 Panasonic.................................................................................................................105 Roborock..............................................................................................................33, 61 RVM....................................................................................................................79, 109 Samsung..................................................................................................................106 Siemens..................................................................................................................... 31 Sharp.......................................................................................................................... 15 SMEG.................................................................................... 13, 49, 79, 105, 109, 110 Sunbeam........................................................................................... 39, 41, 43, 72, 73 TCL............................................................................................................... 28, 89, 100 TECO........................................................................................................................... 92 Tefal............................................................................................................................ 76 V-ZUG.................................................................................................................69, 107 Westinghouse............................................................................................................ 96 Vintec.................................................................................................... 63, 65, 67, 110
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FURFINDER™
FURGUARD™
DUALBRUSH
Meet the BISSELL PowerClean family.
Pet Proven™ cleaning power for pet hair, everyday mess and real life. Crumbs under the table. Fur on the couch. The little reminders of a home full of life. We get it. The BISSELL® PowerClean family of cordless stick vacuums helps your customers take care of the mess, and gives your team compelling reasons to recommend the range. Three free-standing models combining everyday cleaning performance with attractive price points, powered cleaning tools and two batteries on selected models.* With PowerClean FurGuard™ recognised with a Red Dot Award: Product Design 2026, smart design is part of the family too. Discover what BISSELL PowerClean can bring to your floorcare range.
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*PowerClean FurGuard and PowerClean DualBrush models each include two batteries. Professional model also available.