By Martin Vedris

SYDNEY: Once ‘the’ household name when it came to vacuum cleaners, Hoover Floorcare is re-invigorating the brand under the guidance of new director, Damian Court and with a new supply model to open up distribution.

Court, who spent almost 10 years at Sunbeam, many of those as marketing manager for kitchen appliances, was part of the team that brought the Sunbeam brand back to market domination. Now he has turned his attentions to the Hoover brand.

“While taking the reigns at Hoover Floorcare will present challenges, the experience and knowledge I’ve gained while working with allied products in the consumer durables industry will hold me in good stead to carry this iconic brand into the future,” said Court.

The recent sale of the Godfrey’s business to private equity investors (CCMP and PEP) not only created the position for Court, it also created a number of changes for Hoover Floorcare’s Australasian operations. The most significant change is the creation of the International Cleaning Solutions (ICS) division, which will enable Hoover Floorcare to operate independently, supplying all retailers nationally.

Court says that a vital component of the renaissance of the Hoover floorcare brand is international alignment with the exciting new product development programme being driven out of the Hoover operations in Europe. Already, Court has announced some new Italian-designed Hoover product in a new range yet to be announced.

“I am enthusiastic and passionate about my new role, with three exciting ranges of vacuum about to be launched in July,” said Court.