http://www.current.com.au/ en-us http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss info@current.com.au (The Editor) http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/17/article/Sony-releases-new-NEX-and-Alpha-series-camera-great-for-narcissists/IXMTZEDMVO.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/17/article/Sony-releases-new-NEX-and-Alpha-series-camera-great-for-narcissists/IXMTZEDMVO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Sony Australia is catering to the self-centred with its latest camera release, the NEX-F3, which includes a 180-degree tilt LCD screen for self portraits.</p> <p> The NEX-F3 is a compact system camera, meaning it has interchangeable lenses but not the bulk of a fully-featured DSLR. This camera is compatible with lenses from Sony’s E-Mount series.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “The compact sized NEX-F3 features the same space-saving mirrorless design as other cameras in the E-mount family,” said Sony in a statement “Far bigger than sensors found in point-and-shoot compacts, the 16.1 effective megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor captures more light for flawless, low-noise stills and crisply detailed Full HD video.</p> <p> “Just like traditional DSLR cameras, it’s easy to create beautiful defocus effects with your subject focused sharply against a smoothly blurred background.”</p> <p> The NEX-F3 is available in a range of kits starting from RRP $699 for the camera plus an 18-55mm lens.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/CX75700_wSEL1855_self_2_BK-1200.jpg" width="429" /></p> <p> Sony's new NEX-F3</p> <p> Also new from Sony is the α37, part of Sony’s range of Alpha DSLRs. Key features of this camera include a 16.1-megapixel sensor, tilting LCD, high-speed shooting at up to seven frames per second and Full HD shooting.</p> <p> “The α37 utilises 2x Clear Image Zoom which doubles magnification of your lens and Sony patented technology called By Pixel Super Resolution. This technology gives images superb detail, depth and contrast and allows those on the go the flexibility to boost the focal length without carrying extra hardware,” said Sony in a statement.</p> <p> The α37 is available in a range of kits starting from RRP $699 for the camera plus an 18-55mm lens.Œ</p> Thu, 17 May 2012 15:05:45 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/17/article/Philips-calls-in-the-dental-experts-to-promote-new-Sonicare-AirFloss/DHSNFGWIMR.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/17/article/Philips-calls-in-the-dental-experts-to-promote-new-Sonicare-AirFloss/DHSNFGWIMR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Philips was all bright smiles this morning at the launch of the Sonicare AirFloss – a new electronic device designed to make it easier to clean between the teeth.</p> <p> The launch was hosted by media personality Jessica Rowe who emceed a panel discussion between Dr David Dunn, principal dentist at the Macquarie Street Centre, Dr Ron Kanevel, dental hygienist and lecturer at La Trobe University, and the marketing manager for Philips Oral Care, Simon Keenan.</p> <p> Following a brief presentation from Keenan on the history of the toothbrush (did you know that our cave-bound forebears used twigs, feathers and leaves?) Dr Dunn and Dr Knevel spoke to the gathered audience about dental hygiene, the benefits of regular brushing and the importance of what they termed “interdental cleaning”.</p> <p> While Knevel conceded that it was often difficult to get Australians to visit the dentist, it was important to do so, especially from a young age.</p> <p> “Prevention is not an unpleasant experience,” he said. “It doesn’t cost a lot of money, but it does save a lot of money.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> While there was plenty of talk about periodontal disease and removing bacteria and biofilm from the surface of teeth, it wasn’t all grim. The dentists were also on hand to spruik the benefits of Sonicare’s range of products.</p> <p> “The take-home message is that if you’re not cleaning between your teeth, you’re missing 20 per cent of the surface of your teeth,” said Dunn. “Tools such as the AirFlos enable us to do this quickly and easily.”</p> <p> The AirFloss is designed to clean plaque and bacteria from between the teeth, in much the same way as dental floss does. But rather than pulling tape and string between the teeth and potentially damaging the gums, consumers simply press a button on the AirFloss to shoot a jet of water and air between the teeth to clean.</p> <p> According to Keenan, it’s a way of flossing without floss. With as many as 60 per cent of Australians flossing very infrequently or not at all, it made sense for Philips to release a product that would take the hard work out of the this dental hygiene regimen.</p> <p> “It’s a little device that is simple to use and that will get between the teeth and gums,” said Keenan. “That’s how the AirFloss was born.</p> <p> “The Sonicare AirFloss has been developed to improve oral health by offering people an easy-to-use device that they use every day and will complement the existing Philips range of Sonicare power toothbrushes.”</p> <p> The Sonicare AirFloss (HX8111) is available now for RRP $169.95.</p> Thu, 17 May 2012 14:55:48 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/17/article/Games-staff-is-being-well-supported-through-tough-times/XGZVSCNYWZ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/17/article/Games-staff-is-being-well-supported-through-tough-times/XGZVSCNYWZ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Times might be tough, but Game will fight through the storm. That’s according to staff at the embattled retailer who say that, rather than facing disgruntled consumers haggling over gift vouchers and store credit, they’ve been faced with concerned customers who’ve come in to “see how the store was going”.</p> <p> Current.com.au visited one of Game Australia’s stores today to see how staff members were dealing with the company’s administration on the shopfloor.</p> <p> Consumers were still coming in to purchase, and the staff were still happily serving, despite the revelation on Monday that the company was in dire financial straits. The only real limitation, according to one staff member, was that the store was not able to take Eftpos payments (there was a small sign next to the cash register to confirm this) or accept trade-ins.ŒOtherwise, he said, it was “business as usual”.</p> <p> One staffer also noted that many regulars had popped into the store to check up on things and to see how the familiar faces behind the sales desk were faring.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Current.com.au spoke to Sydney area manager Patrick West, who said that individual stores were being given “a great amount of support” during the uncertain administration process. He said that while the situation was not ideal, things were going remarkably smoothly and the Game team was just looking forward to a resolution being found.</p> <p> According to West, Game was looking into its options with potential buyers and the company hopes to survive as a strong retail chain into the future.</p> Thu, 17 May 2012 14:24:20 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/17/article/Samsung-to-launch-Galaxy-S-III-smartphone-in-Sydney-on-31-May/EEZUWGASGX.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/17/article/Samsung-to-launch-Galaxy-S-III-smartphone-in-Sydney-on-31-May/EEZUWGASGX.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> We do know Samsung is launching something - and we're guessing (not believing) it's the Galaxy S III - but we'll leave it up to our readers to draw their own conclusions.</p> <p> Here is the invite, with only the location and contact information redacted:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="686" src="/image/Saminvite.JPG" style="width: 543px; height: 592px" width="686" /></p> <p> Leave your ideas in the comment box below.</p> Thu, 17 May 2012 13:47:16 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/Shorter-shift-times-for-retail-workers-will-lead-to-exploitation-SDA/JWDNXHHTSK.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/Shorter-shift-times-for-retail-workers-will-lead-to-exploitation-SDA/JWDNXHHTSK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Last week, Fair Work Australia handed down a decision to allow the reduction of minimum shift times for students from 3 hours to 1.5 hours, following an unsuccessful appeal by the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association.</p> <p> Following the news, the heads of the Australian Retailers Association and the National Retail Association <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/ARA--NRA-claim-a-win-for-the-kids-as-FWA-allows-short-retail-shifts/MMNPGYWWEB.html" target="_blank">came out praising the ruling</a>, calling it a win for students rights.</p> <p> However, the national secretary of the SDA, Joe de Bruyn, has told Current.com.au that the employee advocacy group was “very disappointed” by the decision,Œand that it would ultimatelyŒleave retail workers much worse off.</p> <p> “What’s been put into the award is now operational, despite our best efforts,” said de Bruyn. “Young working people...are now vulnerable to employers using this to pick those people prepared to work the shorter shift.</p> <p> “I think two things will happen. One is that employers can now use school kids for an hour and a half where previously they couldn’t. So it means adults working in a store finishing up at the end of the day are now likely to be told, ‘Sorry, but the last one and a half hours of your day are now going to be taken off you because we’ve got a cheaper school kid who can come in and do it’.</p> <p> “So I think there’s going to be a replacement of the older existing day-time workers with school kids. And there is no protection whatsoever in the new award provision to prevent that.</p> <p> “Secondly, retailers will shop around amongst young kids. If a young person says, ‘I don’t want to do this,’ then they simply get passed over for jobs because the retailer can find somebody who will take the one and a half hours.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> While the ARA and NRA insist that they were standing up for students’ rights in fighting the SDA appeal, de Bruyn doesn’t agree.</p> <p> “What the position of Fair Work Australia has done is to take away people’s rights,” he said. “They had a right to a three-hour minimum and that’s been taken away. And nobody could argue that a right to one and a half hours is better than 3 hours.</p> <p> “It’s just inadequate.</p> <p> “Who is doing that work now between 4 and 5.30? It’s being done by the existing day-time employees. They’re the ones that are going to lose that work. They’re likely to be adults on an adult rate, and they’ll be replaced by school kids on a junior rate. That’s exploitation.”</p> <p> As far as the legal process was concerned, de Bruyn said he stood by his previous comments, made to Appliance Retailer magazine in August 2011, that the ARA and NRA are “both incompetent when it comes to running industrial cases”.</p> <p> “Fair Work Australia has granted what the employers asked for without them [the ARA and NRA]Œputting up a case. That in itself is fundamentally wrong,” he said. “They went in with an application, put up no evidence, and they still won. We had reams and reams of evidence and we lost. That is wrong in principle.</p> <p> “But the issue won’t go away. I think the more that retailers use this ruling and exploit it, the better the argument will be at some future point to go back to Fair Work Australia and basically say, ‘We told you so – people are being exploited, here is the evidence, now wake up to yourself and reverse the decision'.</p> <p> “I think with a bit of experience as to how this is used, the basis is there for arguing the matter afresh.”</p> Wed, 16 May 2012 13:26:22 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/For-a-few-dollars-more-you-can-get-less-than-you-paid-for-at-GAME/HMODPXMJGD.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/For-a-few-dollars-more-you-can-get-less-than-you-paid-for-at-GAME/HMODPXMJGD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> At UnderCurrent, we’re always keeping our eyes open for good bargains. So although Game going into administration is sad news for the Australian retail landscape, it does mean there are some great bargains to be found.</p> <p> The <a href="http://www.game.com.au/preownedconsoles" target="_blank">retailer’s website</a> is advertising a pre-owned console sale, with huge reductions off the recommended retail price of consoles and hardware – more than 50 per cent off in some cases.</p> <p> For example an Xbox Kinect accessory which would normally retail for $199.95 at the store is selling for only $79. It’s a similar story for the Xbox itself which has a web-only price of $449 at Game, but a pre-owned price of $289. Bargain!</p> <p> <img alt="" height="142" src="/image/GAME Preowned Sale.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> <img alt="" height="104" src="/image/Xbox Game Preowned.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Game's competitive pre-owned console pricing.</p> <p> But hang on a minute, I’m sure this won’t be good news for everybody. One reader of Current.com.au <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/What-a-joke-Customers-cry-foul-over-GAME-store-credit-scheme/ESKOZVQWET.html" target="_blank">contacted us today</a> to say that he’d traded in his Xbox, his Kinect and several games just last week, only to be given a $70 store credit.</p> <p> $70? That’s not even enough to buy back his Kinect.</p> <p> It’s alright though. He also reported that thanks to tight restrictions put in place by Game’s administrators, PricewaterhouseCoopers, he was told that he will need to spend four times the value of his $70 voucher in order to redeem it. That means adding $210 of his own cash in order to be able to use his credit voucher.</p> <p> So that brings him up to $280. Great!</p> <p> But he’s still $9 short if he wants to buy back the original Xbox he dropped in last week.</p> Wed, 16 May 2012 10:13:17 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/Betta-to-make-friends-than-e-nemies/LTEVSLNUXJ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/Betta-to-make-friends-than-e-nemies/LTEVSLNUXJ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent was very pleased to read this morning that Betta Electrical is having a strong year, with a number of fine developments, including a rebranding project, more members and a reduction in fees.</p> <p> We were also happy to see that Betta's members have embraced online retailing, so much so that a close relationship has been forged. Here's BSR Group CEO Graeme Cunningham:</p> <p> “We’ve made a friend in online retailing, not an enemy,” he said. “Online has been strongly embraced by our stores because the benefit of these sales and the profit goes back to the stores in the region where the online sale originates.”</p> <p> Cunnigham should be wary of making too many friends online, however, as the tagline of The Social Network rightly stated: "You don't get to 500 million friends without making a few enemies".</p> <p> </p> Wed, 16 May 2012 10:13:20 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/Betta-sales-increase-as-rebranding-of-ex-Retravision-stores-begins/GBEYJLABRP.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/Betta-sales-increase-as-rebranding-of-ex-Retravision-stores-begins/GBEYJLABRP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> BSR Group CEO Graeme Cunningham has revealed a slight sales increase for the group’s March 2012 financial year, while the integration of ex-Retravision members is coinciding with the rebranding of the network’s trading name to Betta Home Living.</p> <p> In a statement sent to Current.com.au today, Cunningham spoke about:</p> <p> Financial Performance</p> <p> “Our financial result is about to be announced and early indicators are that sales have increased by around 2- 3 per cent, with some stores performing well above that level. The group has remained debt free and we will be declaring another dividend for shareholders as we have done for the past six years. Profitability remains at similar levels to previous years but we’ve had an increase in revenue income. This has been a result of improved conditions for the group, increased marketing activity, cost efficiencies and focusing on a number of more profitable categories.”</p> <p> Rebranding to Betta Home Living</p> <p> “The rebranding includes new livery and in time will also include an expansion into new categories such as homewares and furniture. The Betta Home Living rollout is happening at the moment and new signage is now underway across 30 stores — an initiative which is largely being funded by BSR and which is a significant investment for the company. All stores will be upgraded within the next 12-to-18 months. Operating under the Betta Home Living name gives us scope to expand into other categories in an ever-changing market and ensure we continue to drive growth.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Gympie, Virginia and Keperra (all Queensland) Retravisions joining BSR</p> <p> “We are delighted to welcome more stores into the group and are in ongoing discussions with potential new members. We have also utilised the Chandlers brand as in some cases, such as in Yeppoon, we have an existing Betta store. However this brand will only be used selectively.”</p> <p> Diversifying out of AV and online retailing</p> <p> “Technology categories continue to be affected by falling average selling prices, but our real strength has never been in those categories so that in itself has helped our result. Also contributing to our growth has been the move to online retailing, success with our commercial division and our expansion into social media, which saw our successful launch on Facebook in the last two weeks. These measures have benefited all stores.”</p> <p> Reduction in franchise fees</p> <p> “Our service fee is as competitive as other independents and it’s all encompassing — from local area marketing to catalogues and catalogue distribution. Additionally, members have seen a 45 per cent increase in pass backs and more importantly an increase in income into their business. We’ve always been a single national entity focussed on our members, not our own corporate identity. Everything we do is about improving the return for our stores.”</p> Wed, 16 May 2012 10:08:26 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/What-a-joke-Customers-cry-foul-over-GAME-store-credit-scheme/ESKOZVQWET.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/16/article/What-a-joke-Customers-cry-foul-over-GAME-store-credit-scheme/ESKOZVQWET.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> While there was some good news to come out of the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/Game-Australia-goes-into-administration-500-jobs-in-92-stores-at-risk/JGQDCIAPYW" target="_blank">Game administration</a> yesterday – the producers of the newly-released Diablo III game were offering to reimburse Game customers who had not received their copy of the game – the bad stories keep coming in.</p> <p> Current.com.au <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/UPDATED-The-GAME-fallout---Where-do-customers-stand/IWTWZHTXWF.html" target="_blank">yesterday reported</a> that consumers with gift cards, gift vouchers and store credit with the retailer would have heavy restrictions imposed on the use of these credits in stores.</p> <p> PricewaterhouseCoopers issued a statement saying that administrators would be “prepared to honour existing gift cards, gift vouchers and credit notes for most of the products in our stores or online on the basis that these can only be used for 25% of the total purchase price”.</p> <p> Several consumers have contacted this website with details on their personal experiences with the retailer following news of the administration and the new redemption rules.</p> <p> “I have just been advised that I will have to spendŒfour times my store credit amount to get a return on it,” said reader Paul. “I had credit with the store while waiting for the restock of a sold out game. I don't understand how Game can change the terms of my contract with them this way.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Another customer, Chris, labelled the new redemption scheme as a “joke”.</p> <p> “I traded my Xbox, Kinect and games in last week,” he said. “I got a gift card for them of only $70. My wife went in today and was told she had to spend $280 to use the card. Is this illegal as I would think the card is like cash? I think they are trying to rip people off.”</p> <p> Unfortunately, Australian Consumer Law stipulates that customers who have been affected by an administration are not necessarily entitled to a refund on store credits or vouchers. These customers become “unsecured creditors” and must get in line behind suppliers (who are often owed much larger amounts) in order to recoup their costs.</p> <p> Let us know your experience with Game – feel free to leave a comment in the box below.</p> Wed, 16 May 2012 09:39:04 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/UPDATED-The-GAME-fallout---Where-do-customers-stand/IWTWZHTXWF.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/UPDATED-The-GAME-fallout---Where-do-customers-stand/IWTWZHTXWF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Following <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/Game-Australia-goes-into-administration-500-jobs-in-92-stores-at-risk/JGQDCIAPYW" target="_blank">yesterday’s news</a> that the Game Australia has gone into voluntary administration, many consumers have been left asking questions about what will happen to their personal investment with the retailer.</p> <p> PricewaterhouseCoopers has now provided information to consumers on the <a href="http://www.game.com.au/faq" target="_blank">Game Australia website</a>, outlining the status of pre-orders, deposits, gift cards and the retailer’s loyalty program.</p> <p> Unfortunately, when it comes to consumer entitlements, it's not always good news in cases like this.</p> <p> When a company goes into administration, <a href="http://www.asic.gov.au/asic/ASIC.NSF/byHeadline/Creditors%20-%20Voluntary%20administration" target="_blank">suppliers take on a new role as creditors</a> in the process and are covered by Australian Consumer Law. These creditors may have unsold stock that they wish to reclaim or outstanding debts to recoup, and they can make a claim to the voluntary administrators known as a ‘Proof of Debt’. However, they won’t know the nature of their claim until after the second creditors’ meeting, when the future of the company is decided.</p> <p> Administrators also have <a href="http://www.asic.gov.au/asic/ASIC.NSF/byHeadline/Employees%20-%20Voluntary%20administration" target="_blank">employee wages and benefits to consider</a>, though these are largely provided for under the Federal Government’s General Employee Entitlements and Redundancy Scheme (GEERS).</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="text-align: center; padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a></p> <p> Consumers no doubt feel the sting when a retailer that they have been loyal to goes under. When news broke yesterday, gaming fan sites and internet forums were filled with angry customers venting their losses – including anger that many pre-orders of the popular game Diablo III would go unfulfilled and un-refunded.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/1009395" target="_blank">According to the ACCC</a>, consumers are generally considered “ordinary unsecured creditors and as such do not have any priority under the Corporations Act and will only be paid after monies owing to other classes of creditors have been repaid”.</p> <p> Unsecured creditors include customers who have “paid in full for goods or services to be collected or delivered later; paid a deposit, such as in a lay-by agreement or interest-free offer; bought a gift card or voucher and have not used it; returned a product and been issued a credit note”.</p> <p> This covers a large majority of Game’s disgruntled customers.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="text-align: center; padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-left-width: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> So what have the administrators said about what Game customers are entitled to? PwC outlined the following in the information it provided on the retailer’s website.</p> <p> Consumers are currently unable to seek refunds on deposits (including on pre-orders).</p> <p> “We are still working to clarify the status of pre-orders," said a PwC statement on the site.Œ"At this stage we are intending on honouring certain pre-orders placed on the Diablo III and Max Payne new releases. We will provide clarity on these and other new releases in due course.</p> <p> “We are not able to refund customer deposits and customers who have paid a deposit for a pre-ordered item at this stage should continue to monitor the website for further updates.</p> <p> Gift cards, gift vouchers and in-store credits are not refundable - Consumers must spendŒ3 times the voucher value in cash.</p> <p> “We are prepared to honour existing gift cards, gift vouchers and credit notes for most of the products in our stores or online on the basis that these can only be used for 25% of the total purchase price. For example if you have a $15 gift card, you are required to spend at least $60 in store or online, in order to redeem the gift card, with the balance of $45 to be paid in cash. Gift cards, gift vouchers and credit notes cannot be used in conjunction with other customer benefits such as pre-payments, loyalty programme/GAMEON points etc.</p> <p> “We are not able to provide refunds to customers who hold gift cards, gift vouchers and credit notes. Customers who are unable or unwilling to apply them in the amended scheme set out above may have an unsecured claim against the Company and should complete the <a href="http://www.game.com.au/faq" target="_blank">Proof of Debt form</a>...providing details of your claim as well as the original gift card, gift voucher or credit note.”</p> <p> Game’s loyalty scheme points can only make up 10% of a sale - Consumers must spend 9 times the points value in cash.</p> <p> “We are prepared to honour existing redemptions under the loyalty program on an adjusted basis as outlined below. Points can be used for up to 10% of the purchase price of existing products (for example if a game was purchased for $20, this would need 1000 points worth $2 and $18 of cash). Points cannot be used in conjunction with other customer benefits such as gift cards, vouchers or credit notes. Unfortunately customers will no longer be able to accrue further points under the loyalty program at this stage.</p> <p> “Customers who hold points and are unable or unwilling to apply them in the amended scheme set out above may have an unsecured claim against the Company and should complete the Proof of Debt form...providing details of your claim including your loyalty card number and balance of points.”</p> <p> Where does this leave you? Feel free to respond in the comments box below.</p> <p> UPDATE</p> <p> Blizzard Entertainment, the creator of the Diablo gaming franchise, has announced that it will be offering recompense to Game consumers who have been short-changed on Diablo III pre-orders.</p> <p> The company used announced its <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/Blizzard_ANZ" target="_blank">official Australia/New Zealand Twitter feed</a> to confirm that it would assist affected consumers, linking to a statement on its <a href="http://us.battle.net/d3/en/forum/topic/5007290816?page=1" target="_blank">Diablo III microsite</a>:</p> <p> “We're aware that some Australian GAME customers have been left out in the cold on what should be the hottest night of the year -- the launch of Diablo III,” the statement read. “To help with this situation and get these players into the game as soon as possible, we've put the following process in place.</p> <p> “Australian GAME customers with a valid preorder/prepurchase receipt dated before May 15, 2012 can do the following: 1. Purchase the digital version of Diablo III from <a href="http://www.diablo3.com">http://www.diablo3.com</a> now or anytime before May 21, 2012. 2. Download and start playing when the servers go live! 3. Submit your GAME Australia preorder/prepurchase receipt to us before June 30, 2012. 4. Receive a credit from Blizzard, for the amount you paid in advance to GAME Australia for Diablo III. This credit will be applied to the payment method used for the digital purchase.”</p> <p> Further details on how to submit receipts will be available on the Diablo website as they come to hand.</p> <p> Œ</p> <p> Œ</p> Tue, 15 May 2012 12:49:44 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/Aussie-iPunters-rejoice-you-can-now-bet-on-Apples-share-price/OLOGMIWFNO.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/Aussie-iPunters-rejoice-you-can-now-bet-on-Apples-share-price/OLOGMIWFNO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> One of UnderCurrent's favourite pastimes is sports betting - perhaps second only to technology. Imagine how happy we were then to learn that corporate bookmaker Sportsbet.com.au has framed a market on Apple Inc.'s trading performance over the next 18 months.</p> <p> Fellow iPunters have two options to choose from, with Sportsbet framing markets concerning Apple's share price at the end of 2013.</p> <p> For value, you can bet on which $50 bracket the price will be, with more than $750 per share the $3.25 favourite. For a two-horse race, technogamblers can opt for an overs/unders bet on whether the share price willŒreach $1,000 by 2013. Currently, Sportsbet is offering $2.50 on the share price breaking this barrier by 31 December 2013.</p> <p> Here are the current markets:</p> <p> Apple share price at the end of 2013: $3.25ŒŒ More than $750 $4.00ŒŒ $700.01 to $750.00; $650.01 to $700.00 $5.50ŒŒ $600.01 to $650.00; $550.01 to $600.00 $6.00ŒŒ $500.01 to $550.00 $10ŒŒŒŒŒ $450.00 to $500.00 $15ŒŒŒŒŒ Under $450</p> <p> Will Apple reach $1,000 share price by end of the 2013? $1.50ŒŒ No $2.50ŒŒ Yes</p> <p> Apple Inc. closed at $558.22 on the Nasdaq on 14 May 2012 (US). Œ</p> Tue, 15 May 2012 14:21:00 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/Upgrades-slashed-but-staff-training-retained-report/JIXDINOXSK.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/Upgrades-slashed-but-staff-training-retained-report/JIXDINOXSK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> During tough economic times, equipment upgrades and marketing are the first expenses to be slashed while, encouragingly, only 16 per cent of businesses defer staff training due to uncertainty about the economy.</p> <p> These findings were revealed today as part of the Sage Business Index 2012, which is a collection of data based on interviews with over 500 Australian business owners earlier this year.</p> <p> When asked what expenditures were being contracted due to difficult trading conditions, 36 per cent replied 'upgrading plants/machinery', just ahead of marketing with 31 per cent. Also in the high 20s were developing new business areas (28%), paying off debt (28%), pay rises (27%) and new staff hire (25%).</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Overall, 23 per cent of businesses deferred all or most of their "significant business decisions", according to the report.</p> <p> Interestingly, website and online marketing has been relatively stable, while employee training and new store openings have been affected even less by economic uncertainty.</p> <p> Despite marketing spends being slashed, businesses are not fundamentally opposed to marketing and advertising, with 44 per cent of respondents saying that marketing was their priority area as soon as money becomes available. This was the most common response, with investing in sales, improving infrastructure and upgrading technology also on business owners' wish lists.</p> Tue, 15 May 2012 13:06:34 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/Fujitsu-finds-favour-on-the-retail-floor-with-award-win/QDZFFWPUGQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/Fujitsu-finds-favour-on-the-retail-floor-with-award-win/QDZFFWPUGQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> There were a range of well-known brands vying for attention at last week’s ARBS air conditioning and refrigeration trade expo in Melbourne. While there was plenty of space in Melbourne’s convention centre, the retail floor is certainly a much more limited area in which big suppliers can compete for position.</p> <p> According to Philip Perham, the deputy managing director of Fujitsu General Australia, aŒbit ofŒaward recognition doesn’t go astray in capturing the consumer’s attention in a retail shopfront. And Perham is certainly happy to talk up the benefits of Fujitsu’s recent <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/27/article/Fujitsu-General-is-still-Australias-favourite-air/VFCOWFYVVI.html" target="_blank">Canstar Blue award win</a> in the domestic air conditioning category.</p> <p> “From our perspective it reaffirms a lot of the research that we independently conducted, and a lot of the focus that we’ve done our business looking at the customers,” he said.Œ</p> <p> “It’s nice to see a lot of that work that we’ve been doing – whether it’s warranty service or product quality or affordability – is paying dividends for us. It’s confirmation that we must be doing something right.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Shortly after winning the award, Fujitsu sought its own feedback on the Canstar name itself, and whether consumers and retailers were aware of what it stood for. From this, Perham said the company was happy with the clout it already had in the retail sphere.</p> <p> “We were quite surprised by the level of knowledge on it out there in general consumer and retail land. A lot of our retail partners have previously won the award – The Good Guys and those sorts of people – so it carries a fair bit of credibility.</p> <p> “I think the Canstar badging definitely gives consumers confidence in the products, that they’re getting something high quality and reliable with back-up service, and something that will go the distance. So it’s a good silent seller for us in stores.</p> <p> “And getting five stars across every category was a nice little tick of approval,” he added. “We’re hopeful at this stage that we can use our point of sale material to enhance the Fujitsu brand again. The job for us now is not to rest on our laurels, it’s to keep delivering.</p> <p> Perham said that Fujitsu’s success comes in from the brand’s profile as a well-known brand in the marketplace. But he also recognised that being a big name comes with its own challenges.</p> <p> “We’re very active in the market, we’ve got a high profile,” he said. “With that comes a lot of expectations and they’re the things that we’re trying to meet. If we can meet those customer expectations on all levels then we should do very well. That’s probably the biggest pressure for us – the presence that we have.”</p> Tue, 15 May 2012 12:06:22 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/Historic-day-for-TV-industry-as-first-recycling-station-opens/MOUFXMVKBM.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/15/article/Historic-day-for-TV-industry-as-first-recycling-station-opens/MOUFXMVKBM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Today marks an historic moment in the 56-year history of television in Australia, with the first recycling station now accepting end-of-life TVs, as well as PC hardware and peripherals.</p> <p> After years of talking about how the industry would respond to the problem of CRTs on footpaths, the opening today of two E-Waste collection points — <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/DHL-to-start-TV-and-PC-recycling-in-Canberra-from-15-May-2012/AHZVFOLJWS.html" target="_blank">both in the Australian Capital Territory</a> — is the first in a long march to finally rid our homes and streets of unwanted technology.</p> <p> Somewhat ironically, it is not Product Stewardship Australia, the industry association that represented the major manufacturers in discussions with the Government, before evolving into the Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform (ANZRP), that will receive the first load of TVs and computers, with German logistics behemoth DHL taking that honour.</p> <p> “DHL Supply Chain is pleased to launch this service in conjunction with the ACT Government today and is looking forward to further expanding this service to over 100 collection sites across Australia,” said DHL South Pacific CEO Terry Ryan.</p> <p> “Because residents of the ACT will be able to access the free scheme on an ongoing basis, there is no need to dispose of these items straight away: they can hold off to dispose of the items at a time that suits them.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The road to this day has been a long one. In October 2008, then PSA chairman Ken Thompson told Current.com.au that TV recycling would be <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2008/10/22/article/TV-recycling-scheme-up-and-running-in-6-months-PSA/GJVHIOVWEB.html" target="_blank">operational by early 2009</a>. Countering this view at the time was Harvey Norman chairman Gerry Harvey, who correctly predicted that it would take years.</p> <p> Along the way, there has been debate about how the scheme would be run, how it would be paid for, what to do with the so-called <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2009/11/06/article/JANPNPXQVS.html" target="_blank">‘freeloaders’</a>. At one stage, there was even a push to have <a href="http://www.current.com.au/news/article/OSAFFURDYF.html" target="_blank">retailers more actively involved</a>, though no mandated participation ever eventuated.</p> <p> ACT chief minister Katy Gallagher said the scheme would not only remove unwanted technology but also provide a boost to Australia’s recycling industry.</p> <p> “The new national e-waste scheme will help play a significant role in improving the recycling rates of televisions and computers not only in the ACT but across the nation,” Gallagher said in a statement.</p> <p> “As it rolls out, the new national e-waste scheme will provide people with greater choice for recycling when disposing of their electronic goods, at the same time helping Australia’s recycling industry to grow.</p> <p> “It is hoped the free scheme will also alleviate ongoing issues in the ACT around illegal dumping.”</p> <p> DHL’s heretofore only recycling partner in the scheme is Sony. All other announced <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/ANZRP-signs-Dell-Pioneer-NEC-Uniden-and-Epson-amongst-16-new-partners/EDITDDKPCJ" target="_blank">appointments have been with the ANZRP</a>.</p> Tue, 15 May 2012 11:00:02 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/Apple-Australia-gives-up-on-misleading-4G-name-rebrands-as-Cellular/ASDCJFENSV.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/Apple-Australia-gives-up-on-misleading-4G-name-rebrands-as-Cellular/ASDCJFENSV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Apple Australia has ditched the ‘4G’ tag from its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/08/article/Everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-new-iPad-tech-specs--price/DYNEVYCNKW" target="_top">new iPad</a> with mobile data and is referring to this model of the device as Wi-Fi + Cellular.</p> <p> Still called the iPad Wi-Fi + 4G in the United States, where it actually can use 4G networks, the latest iteration of the iPad was originally sold in Australia with the deceptive name, despite it not being compatible with Telstra’s nascent 4G network, nor with any of the planned 4G networks from other telco providers.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/27/article/ACCC-seeking-heavy-penalties-in-court-date-with-Apple-over-4G-claims/NGMRFTWKXC.html" target="_blank">Apple was recently taken to court by the ACCC</a> over this branding, with Apple agreeing to publish <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/How-Apple-and-the-major-retailers-have-responded-to-ACCC-iPad-4G-demands/SLZESHSZIB.html" target="_blank">carefully worded corrective notices</a> on its website and in <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/Full-text-of-Apples-email-to-potentially-disguntled-new-iPad-4G-consumers/BKHPTMHKFL.html" target="_blank">emails to consumers</a>, as well as offering refunds to misled consumers.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="502" src="/image/Ipad cellular.bmp" width="400" /></p> <p> A screengrab from Apple's website showing the new branding.</p> <p> Comment</p> <p> The choice of the word ‘Cellular’ is a curious one. Although that is a ubiquitous term for mobile communication in American – think cell phones – it is barely ever used in Australia. Since mobile phones first began reaching critical mass in the late 1990s, they have always been called just that: mobile. Perhaps to truly avoid confusion, Apple could just call this product what it is: Wi-Fi + 3G. Œ</p> Mon, 14 May 2012 14:34:07 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/ARA--NRA-claim-a-win-for-the-kids-as-FWA-allows-short-retail-shifts/MMNPGYWWEB.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/ARA--NRA-claim-a-win-for-the-kids-as-FWA-allows-short-retail-shifts/MMNPGYWWEB.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> The Australian Retailers Association (ARA)Œand the National Retail Association (NRA) are citing a Fair Work Australia decision to allow young workers shorter shifts on school days as a win for the rights of retailers.</p> <p> FWA handed down its decision in the Federal Court on Friday, allowing students to work for 1.5 hours on school days, provided they work between the hours after school and retail close of business, and provided written consent is supplied by both the employee and their parents.</p> <p> The same decision was originally handed down by FWA in June 2011, however, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/06/29/article/NRAARA-back-at-war-with-SDA-over-FWA-decision/WLJAPIGTBP.html" target="_blank">the ruling was appealed</a> by the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/06/22/article/FWA-win-doesnt-prevent-ARA-and-NRA-going-to-war-for-the-credit/FSMTFPSAOF.html" target="_blank">What followed was a war of words</a> between the executive director of the ARA, Russell Zimmerman, the executive director of the NRA, Gary Black and the national secretary of the SDA, Joe de Bruyn.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Shortly after the final ruling was handed down on Friday afternoon, both the ARA and the NRA were pushing themselves into the public eye once more, making their views on the decision known with plenty of motherhood statements.</p> <p> “The fact that the Federal Court upheld the ruling and chose to implement rather than delay the decision until today’s hearing is an indication the almost two year running fight for students’ rights to gain employment has dragged on for too long,” said ARA president, Roger Gillespie.</p> <p> “The decision to enable retailers to employ students for a minimum 90 minute shift is a win-win for retailers and students alike.</p> <p> “Retailers will opt not to employ students at all if they have to pay them for hours they don’t work, so the ruling has allowed students to get a look in for employment opportunities where they might not have previously as well as offer students valuable skills beyond the classroom.”</p> <p> Gary Black of the NRA took a similar tack, praising the Federal Court for standing up for the rights of school children.</p> <p> “This appeal effectively sought to block the work opportunities of thousands of school kids currently working a short shift in retail,” said Black. “This decision is a win for those young workers, a win for the employers who are prepared to give them their first taste of life in the workforce, and quite frankly a win for common sense.”</p> <p> “The NRA has fought this battle since 2010 and has had to defend the rights of retailers and young workers to agree to work short shifts after school through three appeal proceedings and six proceedings in total,” he added.</p> <p> “It has been a long and tortuous battle and it is now time for the SDA to accept the umpire’s verdict.”</p> <p> Current.com.au has contacted the SDA and Joe de Bruyn personally for comment on the ruling.</p> Mon, 14 May 2012 14:25:40 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/Collapsed-retailer-WOW-Sight--Sound-launches-countdown-to-SuperStore-opening/TZDXAOITSR.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/Collapsed-retailer-WOW-Sight--Sound-launches-countdown-to-SuperStore-opening/TZDXAOITSR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> WOW Sight & Sound has relaunched <a href="http://www.1wow.com.au/" target="_blank">its website</a> with a countdown to what it is calling an “online entertainment superstore”, which is due to launch on 1 June 2012.</p> <p> In addition to the countdown, the webpage contains an embedded YouTube video of a WOW television commercial set to the tune of C+C Music Factory’s Things That Make You Go Hmmmˆ, which first aired last year.</p> <p> This webpage could most generously be described as not optimised.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.1wow.com.au/" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="330" src="/image/New Picture (1).bmp" width="300" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/02/27/article/BREAKING-NEWS-WOW-Sight--Sound-goes-into-receivership-owing-29m/JEVJJCWDTU" target="_blank">WOW Sight & Sound was placed in receivership</a> earlier this year before holding <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/08/article/WOW-Sight--Sound-clearance-sale-proves-to-be-slight-and-stale/ARGLTCDKHV.html" target="_blank">liquidation sales</a> to raise funds to pay secured creditor National Australia Bank.</p> <p> </p> <p> More to followˆ Œ</p> Mon, 14 May 2012 13:12:30 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/Game-Australia-goes-into-administration-500-jobs-in-92-stores-at-risk/JGQDCIAPYW.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/Game-Australia-goes-into-administration-500-jobs-in-92-stores-at-risk/JGQDCIAPYW.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> The Australian gaming retailer Game has gone into administration today, with questions still remaining as to the fate of more than 500 employees that work in the retailer's 92 Australian stores.</p> <p> Following speculation about the retailer, PricewaterhouseCoopers today released an official statement confirming its appointment of company partners Kate Warwick and Greg Hall as voluntary administrators of TGW Pty Limited, trading as GAME.</p> <p> Speaking about the administration, Warwick said PwC would strive to maintain “business as usual” for the retailer.</p> <p> “Initially we will continue to trade all stores, operating these on as close to a 'business as usual' mode as possible whilst we get a clearer understanding of the current state of the business and actively pursue options to secure its future,” she said.</p> <p> “Prior to our appointment, the company’s management had been exploring interest in investing in the business with a number of parties and we will look to see whether this interest can be harnessed to continue the business or part of it through the voluntary administration process.”</p> <p> “While we are still investigating the causes behind the Australian administration; the impact of the administration of its parent, an ambitious national roll-out combined with the current soft retail environment appear to be key factors.</p> <p> The UK parent Australia’s Game chain, Game Group PLC, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/22/article/GAME-over-UK-retailer-files-for-administration-93-Australian-stores-at-risk/BLQWKXQZXC" target="_blank">filed for administration</a> in March of this year, stating that there was “no equity value left in the Group”. Following this, Game Australia’s managing director Paul Yardley <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/23/article/Game-Australia-still-gaming-despite-Game-UKs-game-over/NALDFQDJYU.html" target="_blank">issued a statement</a> saying that the issues facing the UK branch of the company “don’t necessarily impact us here”.</p> <p> However, less than two months after these comments, the Australian subsidiary has followed the same path as the UK parent.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> While the future for the retailer’s staff is under question, it is also unclear where Game’s customers are left following today’s news, with many Australian consumers still holding loyalty cards, gift cards and vouchers.</p> <p> Speaking about these liabilities, Warwick said, “We are working on schemes aimed at giving customers some return on these claims if they are used to make additional purchases”. According to PwC, “further details will be available to customers on-line or in store from appointment”.</p> <p> Current understands that retailers were sent an email regarding the voluntary administration, instructing them on commercial strategies for the day, and operational limitations for individual retailers on the shop floor. One retailer also told Current that the operational limitations included the stipulation that Game retailers only trade in cash.</p> <p> The retailer also indicated that staff had been given little advice on the future of the company beyond today’s operations, saying they had not been given details of who to direct consumer concerns to.</p> <p> As news of the administration spreads, consumers will no doubt be turning to Game’s shopfronts to learn more about their entitlements now that the retailer has folded.</p> <p> Speaking about the disgruntled customers that may come into stores, one retailer said, “I’m not looking forward to today”.</p> Mon, 14 May 2012 12:19:19 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/Seeley-founder-slams-carbon-tax-as-an-unnecessary-imposition/XOOADBTXBR.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/14/article/Seeley-founder-slams-carbon-tax-as-an-unnecessary-imposition/XOOADBTXBR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Frank Seeley, the founder and chairman of Australian air conditioning manufacturer Seeley International, has criticised the Federal Government’s carbon pricing scheme, saying that it is an unnecessary impositionŒon Australian manufacturing.</p> <p> Speaking to Current.com.au at the Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Building Services trade show in Melbourne last week, Seeley said the carbon tax would be a positive for his company, because it was a leader in environmentally-friendly products designed to reduce power use. However, he also noted it would negatively impact the local manufacturing industry.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “For us personally, it’s a good thing. But for Australia as a nation, it’s a bad thing," he said.</p> <p> “We’re very sorry to see the carbon tax, because I think it’s a retrograde step for Australia, it’s an imposition that we don’t need, and it’s going to make it harder for Australia generally to compete with the rest of the world.</p> <p> “At Seeley, we separate ourselves a bit from that because our products are so unique, and they’re not price-sensitive like other people’s are. But the carbon tax, I have to tell you from my point of view, it’s affecting us. It’s going to affect everybody.</p> <p> “Our steel prices are going to go up, our plastic prices are going to go up, our electrical energy costs are going to go up, everything’s going to go up.</p> <p> "Now here in Australia, if it was a level playing field, you’re only competing with people who’ve got the same problem. But the problem is that we’ve got an impost on us that other countries overseas don’t have. So that means a lot of them are going to be able to send over their products and they are going to come in under the radar. Australian companies are going to pay the extra, they’re not.”</p> Mon, 14 May 2012 11:50:41 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/11/article/Philips-Electronics-Australia-appoints-new-MD/LDFRUNSUZI.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/11/article/Philips-Electronics-Australia-appoints-new-MD/LDFRUNSUZI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Royal Philips Electronics has announced the appointment of Alan McCarthy to the Australia and New Zealand branch of the business, in the dual roles of managing director of Philips Electronics ANZ and general manager of Philips Healthcare ANZ.</p> <p> McCarthy will be responsible for the Consumer Lifestyle, Lighting and Healthcare businesses, leading a team of more than 450 staff. He brings over 20 years of experience with him to the role, largely in general and finance management in the medical capital equipment and devices industries.</p> <p> Most recently, McCarthy worked as vice president of sales and marketing for Critical Care Technologies, Asia Pacific. Prior to this, he was GM of Cardinal Health Australia.</p> <p> He succeeds Harry van Dyk who left Philips in 2011, and will report to Wayne Spittle, Senior VP and Commercial Leader of Philips Healthcare Asia Pacific, and to Harjit Gill, CEO of Philips ASEAN and Pacific. McCarthy will also be working with Chris Kerr, director of Philips Consumer Lifestyle, Australia and New Zealand.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “In Alan, we have a leader with a unique combination of broad business and healthcare expertise to fuel growth of the Philips businesses in ANZ,” said Harjit Gill. “Alan has a track record of achieving strong growth and has an in-depth understanding of the marketplace from a customer perspective.</p> <p> “I am confident he will be instrumental in further cementing relationships with our key stakeholders across the private and public sectors, and unlocking the full potential of Philips in ANZ.”</p> <p> Speaking about his new role, McCarthy said he was “very excited” to lead Philips in Australia and New Zealand “at a time when the world is looking in this direction for growth.</p> <p> “I look forward to building on the strong foundation, brand equity and partnerships we have in Australia and New Zealand and further improve our performance,” he said.</p> <p> “A key focus will be working collaboratively with our partners and stakeholders to ensure that Philips unique capabilities in Lighting, Healthcare and Consumer Lifestyle are optimised, creating the best possible future for people in Australia and New Zealand.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="391" src="/image/Philips_Alan_McCarthy.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> The new managing director of Philips Electronics ANZ and general manager of Philips Healthcare ANZ, Alan McCarthy.</p> Fri, 11 May 2012 10:57:20 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/11/article/Black-and-white-expensive-all-over-Leicas-11000-compact-camera/JGBCSRPZZD.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/11/article/Black-and-white-expensive-all-over-Leicas-11000-compact-camera/JGBCSRPZZD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> High-end camera brand Leica has today demonstrated its desire to capture both ends of the digital imaging market, launching a selection of new camera products ranging in price from $750 up to $11,000. And if you think that hefty price tag will buy you all the colours of the rainbow, think again – the $11,000 model only shoots in black and white.</p> <p> Known as the Leica M Monochrom, the camera is being billed by Leica as “the world’s first digital camera exclusively for full-frame, 35 millimetreŒblack-and-white photography,” designed specifically for photographers who specialise in all things monochrome.</p> <p> Explaining the rationale behind the creation of the 18-megapixel, RRP $10,999 device was Jesko von Oeynhausen, product manager for the M-System at Leica Camera AG.</p> <p> “Black-and-white photography is more popular than ever before,” said von Oeynhausen. “Even today, it has lost nothing of its fascination as an expressive medium, not even for younger generations of photographers.</p> <p> “With the M Monochrom, we now offer, for the first time ever, an opportunity to consistently and authentically explore black-and-white photography with a tool that is unique in the digital world. The camera’s exclusively black-and-white sensor brings an enormous technical benefit that is reflected in the amazing imaging quality it delivers.”</p> <p> As it doesn’t shoot in colour, Leica says the M Monochrom delivers “true” black-and-white photographs that are sharper than images shot on cameras with a colour sensor, because “every pixel records true luminance values”.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> If you’re after something a little kinder to the wallet (and capable of recording a few more hues), Leica has also announced the launch of the V-Lux 40 (RRP $749).</p> <p> The 15.3-megapixel camera is an update of the previously released V-Lux 30, and features an autofocus speed of 0.1 seconds, integrated GPS, continuous shooting of up to 60 frames per second, 20x zoom and a range of creative picture effects such as panorama and miniature mode. It also features an LCD touch screen and mp4 video recording with stereo sound.</p> <p> Finally, Leica has added to its X-line range with the Leica X2 (RRP $2,499), a German-made follow up to the X1.</p> <p> It features a 16.5-megapixel CMOS sensor and a Leica Elmarit 24 mm f/2.8 ASPH. lens, which Leica bills as “a classic focal length for photojournalism”. It features a pop-up flash, a 2.7-inch screen and an all-metal construction with leather trim, and is available in silver or black finishes.</p> <p> “It adapts to all shooting situations with enormous flexibility and enables fast, extremely precise and almost silent focusing. The camera’s profile is complemented by numerous setting options from full manual control to automatic functions and an intuitive handling concept.</p> <p> “All this, together with its elegant and stylish design, makes the Leica X2 the ideal premium-class compact camera for discerning photographers who wish to concentrate completely on their subjects and appreciate creative and true-to-life pictures.”</p> <p> All three cameras will be available from authorised Leica dealers – the X2 and V-Lux 40 are both available now, while the M Monochrom will be available from the end of July.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="226" src="/image/Leica M Monochrom.bmp" width="299" /></p> <p> If grey is the colour of our times, then the Leica M Monochrom will pick up every shade, thanks to its dedicated black-and-white sensor. </p> Fri, 11 May 2012 10:18:05 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/Oil-heater-emitting-sickening-smell-recalled-from-Coles-Supermarkets/YCNHEIGFTB.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/Oil-heater-emitting-sickening-smell-recalled-from-Coles-Supermarkets/YCNHEIGFTB.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> An oil heater has been recalled from Coles Supermarkets after it was discovered it has the potential to emit an odour capable of causing nausea in those nearby.</p> <p> The Dome Five Fin Oil Heater (JY-1000XLb), from supplier HE Group Pty Ltd, has been sold nationally at Coles Supermarkets.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> According to the ACCC’s dedicated Product Recalls website, this heater has “units [that] may rupture when turned on and allow oil to leak out”, and that, “The oil may leak and emit an odour which may cause users to become nauseous”.</p> <p> Affected consumers are advised to immediately stop using this heater and return to the nearest Coles Supermarket for a full refund. Œ</p> Thu, 10 May 2012 16:50:22 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/ACCC-accuses-vacuum-cleaner-distributor-of-preying-on-90-year-old-customers/PAGCZZAUNA.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/ACCC-accuses-vacuum-cleaner-distributor-of-preying-on-90-year-old-customers/PAGCZZAUNA.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> The ACCC has today launched legal action against Lux Distributors Pty Ltd, the Melbourne-based company currently selling the Lux brand of high-end domestic and commercial vacuum cleaners, for engaging in “unconscionable conduct in relation to the sale of vacuum cleaners to five elderly consumers”.</p> <p> In a matter filed in the Federal Court, the ACCC will allege that door-to-door representatives of Lux Distributors preyed on elderly customers, pressuring them into purchasing machines worth more than $2,000.</p> <p> “It is alleged that a Lux sales representative called upon each consumer under the premise of a free vacuum cleaner maintenance check,” said an ACCC spokesperson in a statement.</p> <p> “The consumers, some of whom were aged over 90, were then allegedly subjected to unfair and pressuring sales tactics to induce them into purchasing a vacuum cleaner for a price of up to $2280.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The ACCC is seeking declarations, injunctions, pecuniary penalties, implementation of a trade practices compliance program and costs.</p> <p> The Lux brand was originally owned globally by Electrolux, before being sold in 1999. Lux Distributors took over the sole distribution of the brand from Appliance Direct following a merger in 2007.</p> <p> Current.com.au has contacted Lux Distributors for comment. Œ</p> Thu, 10 May 2012 16:31:41 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/BlackBerry-maker-RIMs-Wake-Up-silence-leaves-only-unanswered-questions/XFWTBGKYNH.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/BlackBerry-maker-RIMs-Wake-Up-silence-leaves-only-unanswered-questions/XFWTBGKYNH.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> It’s been three weeks since Research In Motion, manufacturer of BlackBerry devices, launched its Wake Up campaign. Part of that campaign was a countdown to a reveal, which matured on Monday this week.</p> <p> This campaign was heavily criticised in the media — <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/BlackBerry-maker-RIMs-Wake-Up-campaign-the-best-marketing-event-of-2012/DWNGQIWEKF.html" target="_blank">unfairly, according to this reporter</a> — yet many questions still remain about the campaign, its execution and its value to the smartphone and tablet vendor.</p> <p> Current.com.au’s requests this week for an interview with a suitable Australian Research In Motion representative were rejected. In lieu of a proper interview, we sent a list of questions to Research In Motion, with the opportunity for the company to provide considered responses in an email. That approach was also denied.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> So far, the only correspondence RIM will provide on the matter is the following statement:</p> <p> “BlackBerry launched an integrated marketing and advertising brand campaign in Australia to provoke conversation on what 'being in business' means to Australians. A wide range of activities have taken place during the teaser portion of the campaign. Images and videos are available upon request. Today the campaign is entering a new phase as it unveils a manifesto based on what 'being in business' really means to Australians.”</p> <p> Here are the questions I sent Research In Motion:</p> <p> -Overall, is RIM happy with how the Wake Up campaign played out between the initial teaser campaign and the eventual reveal?</p> <p> -There’s some confusion over who this campaign was targeting: is it a return for RIM to its enterprise roots or another attempt to energise the general consumer market?</p> <p> -Some of the criticism of this campaign has been vicious — does RIM have any regrets about any elements of this campaign?</p> <p> -The guerrilla aspect of Wake Up has been described variously as being like <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krusty_Gets_Kancelled" target="_blank">‘Gabbo’ from The Simpsons</a> and <a href="http://mumbrella.com.au/blackberrys-wake-up-campaign-strategy-labelled-pre-digital-age-89420" target="_blank">“pre-digital”</a> — do you think the mystery aspect of this campaign was out of touch with the modern consumer? Are consumers less willing to accept an element of mystery from marketers?</p> <p> -Did the constant <a href="http://mumbrella.com.au/samsung-galaxy-launch-believed-to-be-behind-wake-up-teaser-campaign-87691" target="_blank">association of this campaign with Samsung</a> hurt RIM vicariously? What was RIM’s reaction to stories on popular websites incorrectly attributing the campaign to Samsung?</p> <p> -Does RIM agree with <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/BlackBerry-maker-RIMs-Wake-Up-campaign-the-best-marketing-event-of-2012/DWNGQIWEKF.html" target="_blank">my assertion</a> that media types intentionally set out to vilify this campaign to disguise their own inaccuracies in attributing the campaign to Samsung?</p> <p> -Has there been any noticeable uplift in business since the Wake Up campaign commenced?</p> <p> -As a journalist who follows what RIM is up to very closely, I was surprised that the campaign did not end with a new product release or the actual launch of new software (as opposed to a developer release) — was it a mistake to invest so heavily in a campaign without a new product to attract consumers?</p> <p> -Can RIM please provide five reasons, without using any buzzwords, why a businessperson should be using a BlackBerry instead of any other device?</p> <p> -How exactly does one <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/07/article/RIM-wakes-us-up-by-screaming-mixed-metaphors-about-corks-and-breakfast/AYFYBQKEOS" target="_blank">eat opportunity for breakfast</a>? And if they’ve eaten it, are they not forfeiting it? Can one truly have their opportunity and eat it too?</p> Thu, 10 May 2012 14:19:29 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/Toshiba-ups-the-ante-with-sci-fi-inspired-ambient-dance-anthem/GKAUZAHKJR.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/Toshiba-ups-the-ante-with-sci-fi-inspired-ambient-dance-anthem/GKAUZAHKJR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent has this week been enjoying company songs, with <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/08/article/Sing-along-to-Panasonics-company-song/UOWBAAAYNC.html" target="_blank">Panasonic</a> and <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/Samsungs-theme-song-is-great-for-Korean-Karaoke/KEOGXFLOJJ.html" target="_blank">Samsung</a> both amusing with their grandiose musical visions of the future. Today's instalment is even better - Japanese company Toshiba don't just have a company song, it has a company film.</p> <p> With a ambient dance track that recalls <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ET1-6Bef9xU" target="_blank">Chicane's work</a> from the early Naughties and stock footage from sci-fi films interspersed with product shots - plus a truly bizarre cameo by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamiroquai" target="_blank">Jamiroquai</a> - this Toshiba music video would not be out of place at some of the more trendy discotheques.</p> <p> </p> Thu, 10 May 2012 12:59:36 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/Inside-iPod-Central-Harvey-Normans-unique-store-fit-out/VHEMLIHNMK.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/Inside-iPod-Central-Harvey-Normans-unique-store-fit-out/VHEMLIHNMK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Œ</p> <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Harvey Norman has used its Melbourne CBD store to create a unique experiential space for audio accessories, designed specifically for its busy city demographic.Œ</p> <p> Known as iPod Central, the space acts as a concept store-within-a-store where consumers can come in to try out different headphones or experiment with different products.</p> <p> According to staff, the most common customers at the Melbourne City store are uni students, nearby office workers and commuters looking to buy quality headphones to wear as a statement accessory or for listening to music on the tram ride home.Œ</p> <p> As the only Harveys store within the city area, and the only store to have a display of this kind, the shopfront is well-placed to cater to local needs and offer customers a unique shopping experience.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="340" src="/image/Harveys_iPod Central.jpg" width="300" /></p> The entrance to iPod Central. Floor signage like the decal at the bottom of the image is used all through the wider Harvey Norman store as a way of directing customers and driving foot traffic. Œ <img alt="" height="225" src="/image/Harvey Norman_Headphones.JPG" width="300" /> Œ Consumers can sit at one of the many experience stations and try out different headphone models. Œ <img alt="" height="420" src="/image/Harveys_Monster Headphones(1).jpg" width="300" /> Œ A close-up of a set of Monster headphones. Œ <img alt="" height="549" src="/image/Harveys_Hand Headphones(1).jpg" width="300" /> Œ Bud-style earphones are also displayed in iPod Central. Œ <img alt="" height="394" src="/image/Harveys_Yamaha Guitar(1).jpg" width="300" /> Œ This Yamaha display drives home the music message to consumers. Thu, 10 May 2012 12:44:20 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/Last-chance-to-submit-for-Online-Retail-Industry-Awards/FKJQNOYUFE.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/Last-chance-to-submit-for-Online-Retail-Industry-Awards/FKJQNOYUFE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Œ</p> <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Retailers across Australia and New Zealand are being invited to submit for the Online Retail Industry Awards (ORIAs) – an annual event that recognises the achievements of businesses in the field of e-commerce and online sales.Œ</p> <p> The event is held as part of the Online Retailer Conference and E-Commerce Expo in Sydney in July, and entries to the awards close tomorrow.Œ</p> <p> Consumer electronics and appliance retailers are <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/09/28/article/Appliances-Online--Dick-Smith-awarded-as-leaders-in-online-retail/XTUMUZWNOQ.html" target="_blank">no strangers to the ORIAs</a> – last year’s winners include Dick Smith, which won awards for Best Multichannel Retailer and 2011 Online Retailer of the Year, and Appliances Online, which picked up the Best Customer Experience and Best Site Design & Optimisation awards.</p> <p> Speaking about the company’s win last year, the CEO of Appliances Online, John Winning, said it was a great way to boost the online business.</p> <p> “Winning an ORIA has enabled us to set our own benchmark and solidify our presence within the industry,” said Winning. “This recognition has truly helped us propel our online business into its next phase of operation.Œ</p> <p> “We have not only been driven to become even more innovative in this space, but the awards have provided us a strong advantage in demonstrating the power and potential of online to prospective business partners – particularly those who are dealing with an online retailer for the first time.”</p> <p style="text-align: center; "> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(127, 196, 35); vertical-align: baseline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; " target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(127, 196, 35); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; " target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Steven Noble, senior analyst at Forrester Research and chair of the ORIAs judging committee, said Australian CE businesses form a strong part of the awards.</p> <p> “Dick Smith and Appliances Online are two of the consumer electronics online retailers that have met with great success in recent ORIAs,” said Noble. “We’re keen to see what the sector has to offer today, especially in fast-moving areas like mobile commerce.”</p> <p> More information on submitting can be found at the <a href="http://www.orias.com.au/how-to-enter/" target="_blank">ORIAs website</a>, with the following categories open for nominations:</p> <p> - Best Pure-Play Online Retailer
 - Best Multichannel Retailer
 - Best New Online Retailer
 - Best use of Technology
 - Most Innovative Online Retailer
 - Best Online Retail Marketing Initiative
 - Best Customer Experience
 - Best Aggregation Channel
 - Best Site Optimisation & Design
 - Best Mobile Commerce Site/Application (New Category)
 - Industry Recognition Award
 - Online Retailer of the Year</p> Thu, 10 May 2012 11:57:23 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/No-tablet-roadmap-at-LG-as-new-head-of-mobile-looks-forward-to-4G/ZMIHPAXZRY.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/No-tablet-roadmap-at-LG-as-new-head-of-mobile-looks-forward-to-4G/ZMIHPAXZRY.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> LG Electronics has no tablet releases in the pipeline, and no major smartphone announcements are expected for at least the remainder of 2012, according to the new local head of mobile Ben Glimmerveen.</p> <p> In a period marked by extroverted activity by smartphone providers, such as Samsung, BlackBerry and Apple, LG has uncharacteristically morphed into a quiet achiever — something unlikely to change until 2013.</p> <p> “Next year will be a significant one for LG and an important one for realising the investment in smartphone and LTE technology for the next stage of development in mobile for 4G handsets,” Glimmerveen told Current.com.au.</p> <p> “There are lots to look forward to and I’m excited to have started my new role in LG at such an exciting period of time.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> When asked about the noticeable absence of such a global player from the rapidly expanding tablet market, Glimmerveen said consumers should not expect any activity from LG for the foreseeable future.</p> <p> “The tablet industry is not an area which LG is pursuing immediately, but this may change with the emergence of 4G networks.</p> <p> “We have no product roadmap of this category at present, however this doesn’t mean that LG won’t step up in this field down the track.”</p> <p> Glimmerveen was <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/LG-appoints-new-head-of-Mobile-Communication/IQEOLPBFQE.html" target="_blank">promoted to head of mobile</a> earlier this year, after 18 months as the Korean company’s key account manager for Telstra.</p> Thu, 10 May 2012 11:58:37 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/Nokia-to-preview-Lumia-900-and-610-smartphones-next-week/ECFMBXQLYF.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/10/article/Nokia-to-preview-Lumia-900-and-610-smartphones-next-week/ECFMBXQLYF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Amid all the excitement surrounding the announcement of the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/04/article/Heres-looking-at-you-First-peek-at-the-Samsung-Galaxy-S-III/RHIPJKIKEW" target="_blank">Samsung Galaxy S III</a>, the insufferable ‘iPhone 5’ speculation and the intrigue of <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/BlackBerry-maker-RIMs-Wake-Up-campaign-the-best-marketing-event-of-2012/DWNGQIWEKF" target="_blank">BlackBerry’s Wake Up campaign</a>, Nokia has been quietly preparing to launch the new Lumia 900 and 610 models.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The Finnish phone giant will be unveiling these two devices in Sydney next Thursday (17 May 2012), though it is unlikely that this ‘media preview’ will include pricing and carrier availability, based on Nokia’s past form.</p> <p> Current.com.au recalls the ‘media preview’ of the Nokia N9 MeeGo smartphone, in which one rival hack asked, “Will Nokia ever hold a normal press conference with dates and prices?”.</p> <p> Current.com.au will be there to cover all the news from this launch – check back throughout the week ahead for any updates.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/1200-nokia-lumia-900-cyan-front-and-back.jpg" width="398" /></p> <p> Nokia's new Lumia 900, which runs Windows Phone 7, will be on show next week.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="514" src="/image/1200-nokia-lumia-610-white.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Also being previewed is the Nokia Lumia 610.</p> <p> This story has been updated to reflect the following: The Nokia Lumia 900 runs Windows Phone 7, not Windows Mobile.</p> Thu, 10 May 2012 11:28:35 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/Samsungs-theme-song-is-great-for-Korean-Karaoke/KEOGXFLOJJ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/Samsungs-theme-song-is-great-for-Korean-Karaoke/KEOGXFLOJJ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent loves a good round of Korean Karaoke, almost as much as the latest gadget or sophisticated home appliance. That's why, even though Samsung's company song lacks the star power of the one-time Mrs Andrew Lloyd Webber (<a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/08/article/Sing-along-to-Panasonics-company-song/UOWBAAAYNC.html" target="_blank">see Panasonic's song from yesterday</a>), it does include an impressive music video complete with the lyrics on screen to sing along.</p> <p> So grab a microphone and enjoy Samsung's official themesong, "We'll Be Your Wings To Fly"...</p> <p> </p> <p> UnderCurrent appreciates the use of Australian landmarks in this clip.</p> Wed, 09 May 2012 14:26:00 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/Major-restructure-at-David-Jones-as-new-sales-and-marketing-team-installed/UTMPQILQXC.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/Major-restructure-at-David-Jones-as-new-sales-and-marketing-team-installed/UTMPQILQXC.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> David Jones CEO Paul Zahra has today announced a restructure of the company’s head office, with a large number of ins and outs at the publicly listed department store.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In a statement that has so many buzzwords it makes no sense whatsoever, Zahra appeared to say that these appointments were made to turn around a company currently <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/21/article/David-Jones-loses-millions-as-profits--earnings-fall-20/PMIEBTPAFX.html" target="_blank">struggling to trade through a period of low consumer confidence</a>.</p> <p> “Our announcement today delivers the skill set and capability within the realigned structure that we promised in our Future Strategic Direction announcement and is one of the first steps in delivering our <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/21/article/After-the-fall---DJs-announces-3-Point-Strategy-to-rise-again/PICSCTWNKG.html" target="_blank">Three Point Strategy</a> [Zahra’s caps throughout],” said the CEO in a statement.</p> <p> Coming in to DJs are:</p> <p> Donna Player as group executive – merchandise.</p> <p> Formerly with Woolworths as the GM of merchandise and planning for Big W, Player is a 30-year veteran of retail management. Zahra said Player’s experience in “price negotiations with suppliers” will be crucial in her new role.</p> <p> Matthew Durbin as executive – strategic planning.</p> <p> This is a new role for the internal appointee, who has been at DJs in finance roles since 1997. Durbin will be responsible for implementing Zahra’s aforementioned Three Point Strategy and will work closely with CFO Brad Soller.</p> <p> Sacha Laing as group executive – marketing and financial services.</p> <p> Another internal appointment, Laing was the group executive for fashion and beauty. In this new role, Laing will be responsible for driving loyalty on DJs and American Express store credit cards. Laing has previously worked for Kodak Retail.</p> <p> Adriane McDermott as general manger marketing – digital and advertising.</p> <p> McDermott will report to Laing and is responsible for developing DJs’ online and social media activity.</p> <p> Marion Joyce as general manager marketing – promotions and publicity.</p> <p> Joyce joins DJs from Toys R Us, where she had a similar title. This is a return to David Jones after eight years in the toy industry.</p> <p> Kate Whitney as general manager marketing – financial services.</p> <p> Formerly the head of brand and retail marketing at Foxtel, Whitney will report to Laing in her new role.</p> <p> Gavin Skews as general manager – AMEX alliance.</p> <p> Skews has formerly worked in various CFO roles in the retail industry.</p> <p> Leaving DJs:</p> <p> Patrick Robinson, previously group executive – home and food. Brett Riddington, previously group executive – marketing. A “number” of unnamed head-office staff.</p> <p> “Having the right structure within our management team is critical to us being able to implement our Three Point Strategic Plan and to deliver profit after tax growth for our shareholders,” continued Zahra. “I am confident that the appointments announced today provide us with the talent, experience and ability to transform our business into a successful Omni Channel Retailer on par with the world’s best [Zahra’s caps throughout].”</p> Wed, 09 May 2012 11:40:24 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/Air-conditioning-gets-a-makeover-with-new-seasonal-styles/FRBAPVXMAV.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/Air-conditioning-gets-a-makeover-with-new-seasonal-styles/FRBAPVXMAV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly in Melbourne</p> <p> While there are plenty of huge, commercial-grade air conditioning units on show at the Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Building Services Exhibition in Melbourne this week, there is also an emerging trend to be seen in domestic appliances as brands move towards stylish designer units.</p> <p> Fujitsu, Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric and LG were all showing off new models with sleek shapes and finishes, designed to bring a bit of style to the traditionally white and boxy shape of split system air conditioning units.</p> <p> Fujitsu and Daikin have both opted for smooth curves and a streamlined finish to their units, removing all the excess buttons, vents and lights in favour of ultra-minimal design.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Over at the Mitsubishi Electric and LG stands, it was all about different finishes to offer consumers a different option to the ubiquitous white.</p> <p> Mitsubishi Electric had both glossy black and silver models on display, which the company’s national product manager, Raja Gounder, said were designed to offer aesthetes more of a choice in the home.</p> <p> “If you have dark walls, the black unit doesn’t stick out as much as a traditional white air conditioner,” said Gounder. “It has a new and modern look for modern houses.</p> <p> “The silver model has also been designed to fit into rooms such as the kitchen, where there are lots of stainless steel appliances.”</p> <p> It was a similar story at LG, where the company had a mirror-finish air conditioner from its Art Cool series on display. Offering the same features as LG Art Cool Stylish air conditioners, commercial marketing manager Rania Gebram said the model had proven quite popular on the retail floor.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="310" src="/image/01 ARBS Fujitsu Designer.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Fujitsu’s Designer Range wall-mounted inverter model.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="204" src="/image/02 ARBS Daikin Designer Air Con.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Daikin’s new European-designed air conditioner has a matte finish that is designed to blend seamlessly with the walls of a room.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="166" src="/image/03 ARBS Mitsubishi Electric Designer.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Mitsubishi Electric Australia has a glossy black model designed for dark walls and a silver model to match stainless steel appliances.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="195" src="/image/04 ARBS LG Designer.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> LG’s Art Cool range includes a sleek mirror-finish model.Œ</p> Wed, 09 May 2012 11:09:11 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/More-cash-but-less-spending-and-a-false-economy-claim-Budget-analysts/OLBJMUUPQN.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/More-cash-but-less-spending-and-a-false-economy-claim-Budget-analysts/OLBJMUUPQN.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> The Federal Budget delivered overnight will result in more cash in consumers’ hands but not necessarily in retailers’ tills, according to RBS director – retail analyst, Daniel Broeren.</p> <p> “Overall, the Federal Budget itself does not have significant implications for the consumer, however, when factoring in roll-off of the flood levy, and the Clean Energy Advance payment, consumers will have around $4.5 billion additional spending capacity in FY13,” Broeren said.</p> <p> These windfalls are tempered, however, by the introduction of the Carbon Tax, and its currently unknown impact on consumers.</p> <p> “The big unknown is the carbon tax, and the level of living cost increases to be pushed through to the consumer from 1 July 2012. Adding to this, an increase in unemployment to 5.5 per cent will adversely impact consumer sentiment.</p> <p> “Overall, consumers will have more cash in FY13 — a positive for retailers — but rising unemployment and living costs will likely see a good proportion of it saved.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Meanwhile, Australian Retailers Association president Roger Gillespie has labelled the much touted budget surplus a “false economy”, saying the Government is merely taking with one hand and giving back with the other.</p> <p> “Retailers will benefit from inclusions such as small business being able to immediately deduct asset costs under $6,500 and the extension of the Small Business Advisory Service, which will ensure more retailers receive timely assistance,” Gillespie said.</p> <p> “The ARA is disappointed retailers will suffer from the abandonment of an important promised tax cut from 30 per cent to 29 per cent and shows small-to-medium businesses aren’t sharing in the benefits of the mining boom.</p> <p> “The ARA supports the announced tax loss carry back scheme but would like to have seen further initiatives to help retailers focus on growth.</p> <p> “ARA is concerned the Government has given with one hand through initiatives for business and consumers but taken with the other with no compensation for the Carbon Tax or superannuation increases, which will hit retailer and consumer confidence once short term Budget benefits wear off.</p> <p> “ARA supports, and calls on, cross-benchers to support a budget surplus. However, it’s a false economy to achieve surplus through pressure on vulnerable sections of the economy.”</p> Wed, 09 May 2012 09:41:49 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/Out-and-about-at-the-Air-Conditioning--Refrigeration-Expo/VJZEYQUYXH.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/09/article/Out-and-about-at-the-Air-Conditioning--Refrigeration-Expo/VJZEYQUYXH.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled By Claire Reilly in Melboune</p> <p> Current.com.auŒhas been in Melbourne this week to check out the Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Building Services Trade Exhibition. All the big brands were there, showing off their latest and greatest products, and there were plenty of smaller niche players ready to demonstrate their wares. <img alt="" height="251" src="/image/01 ARBS Fujitsu Racecar(1).jpg" width="300" /> Fujitsu’s giant dome display had two company-branded cars outside, including this snazzy-looking racecar. <img alt="" height="327" src="/image/02 ARBS David McDonnell.jpg" width="300" /> Daikin technical trainer David McDonnell with the company’s latest European-designed model, featuring a smooth matte exterior that was created to blend into the décor.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="383" src="/image/03 ARBS_LG Marketing Team(1).jpg" width="300" /> LG Australia’s commercial marketing manager Rania Gebram and AES account executive Steven Keating. <img alt="" height="347" src="/image/04 ARBS John Marc Adele MEA(1).jpg" width="300" /> Jean Marc Adele from Mitsubishi Electric Australia demonstrates the revolving top shelf in the brand’s latest Multi Drawer Fridge. <img alt="" height="386" src="/image/05 ARBS_Floating Poly Balls(1).jpg" width="300" /> Floating balls were the fad of the fair, as brands vied for the most spectacular use of floating-lightweight-things or blowing-sparkly-tinsel-things. <img alt="" height="391" src="/image/06 ARBS Mark Taylor Bat.jpg" width="300" /> Our brand ambassador is cooler than your brand ambassador: Fujitsu shows off a signed bat from cricketing great Mark Taylor.</p> Wed, 09 May 2012 09:21:55 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/08/article/Fujitsu-takes-centre-stage-at-air-conditioning-trade-show/NZAVGMPQZN.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/08/article/Fujitsu-takes-centre-stage-at-air-conditioning-trade-show/NZAVGMPQZN.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly in Melbourne</p> <p> If the Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Building Services Trade Exhibition can be compared to Woodstock then Fujitsu General certainly had all the headlining gravitas of Jimmy Hendrix in Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre today.</p> <p> The air conditioning company certainly dominated the space at the expo, occupying a large red and white dome in the centre of the convention hall, dedicated to its domestic and commercial air conditioning appliances.</p> <p> The company was taking centre stage to launch its new Airstage VR-II heat recovery system for commercial premises, with a special unveiling attended by Fujitsu General managing director, Kenji Shimizu, deputy managing director, Philip Perham, and cricketing legend, Mark Taylor.</p> <p> The VR-II is ostensibly designed for large spaces requiring independent temperature control – such as hotels, schools and offices – and extends the Fujitsu’s Airstage VRF offering, which also includes the J-II and V-II series.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> While not necessarily the kind of unit a retailer would stock on the shopfloor (the VR-II certainly dwarfed all present at the unveiling) visiting industry professionals were also treated to a full display of Fujitsu’s domestic range of products, as well as demonstration videos, a history of the company and even one of Taylor’s signed cricket bats.</p> <p> Speaking about Fujitsu’s involvement at ARBS, deputy MD Philip Perham said it was the perfect forum for the company to focus on its commercial offering as well as its retail range.</p> <p> “Our effort is on a commercial front primarily at ARBS,” he said. “But our history has been more as a retail brand, especially with the company starting as a consumer products brand back in the ’70s.</p> <p> “So our focus has shifted from being just in retail, to being in retail and commercial. So obviously ARBS goes very well for us in being in the right demographic and target market, getting the message out to consultants, architects, specifiers and trade.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/01 Fujitsu ARBS dome.JPG" width="364" /> The massive Fujitsu dome at the centre of the Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Building Services Trade Exhibition in Melbourne.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/02 Fujitsu ARBS display.JPG" width="359" /> Fujitsu displays inside the dome.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="350" src="/image/03 Fujitsu ARBS Canstar.JPG" width="300" /> Fujitsu was keen to show off its recent Canstar Blue award – the brand was awarded the highest mark of five stars in every category for its air conditioners.</p> Tue, 08 May 2012 14:24:37 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/08/article/Frequency-of-use-is-the-key-to-selling-the-right-dishwasher/AXFFJZNIOE.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/08/article/Frequency-of-use-is-the-key-to-selling-the-right-dishwasher/AXFFJZNIOE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> The May edition of Appliance Retailer magazine includes its annual Dishwasher Feature. As part of the feature, Drew Weily from Orange Retravision speaks for the retailers, offering some insights into how salespeople interact with consumers in this $320 million category.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “When we’re helping consumers pick the right product, it’s about gauging with them how often it gets used,” Weily said. “Some people might only load it up and use it once a week, but some people will use it daily.</p> <p> “It also comes back to the quality of the machine they want and whether they want something that’s going to last them 5-to-10 years, or whether they’re prepared to spend that little extra to get something that’s going to last them 15 or 20 years.</p> <p> “Somebody that says ‘we’ll only use it once a week’, they’re more likely to be spending between $500 and $800, whereas somebody that’s looking for a daily use product is generally probably prepared to spend that little bit extra for something that’s going to last and they’re going to get life out of.”</p> <p> The feature includes all the latest news, information and technology in this rapidly changing space, and includes products from Smeg, Bosch, Gaggenau, Miele, Ilve and Fisher & Paykel.</p> <p> The May issue of Appliance Retailer is out now. Œ</p> Tue, 08 May 2012 14:19:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/08/article/Teco-using-Androids-to-heat-up-sluggish-air-conditioner-sales/ZWYMLJFICO.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/08/article/Teco-using-Androids-to-heat-up-sluggish-air-conditioner-sales/ZWYMLJFICO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Seasonal appliance brand Teco Australia is looking to heat up air conditioner sales this winter by offering a free Tecovision Android media centre worth RRP $249 with the sale and installation of selected units.</p> <p> “Teco Australia is stimulating sales through what is generally a quiet period for air conditioning business with a winter period air conditioning consumer promotion, offering domestic consumers who purchase one of the wide range of Teco Inverter or Fixed Speed Wall Split System air conditioners a bonus media centre,” said Teco BDM Morris McPhee.</p> <p> The offer is available on the following Teco models: TWS-TSO25HVA, TWS-TSO34HVA, TWS-TSO49HVA, TWS-TSO64HVA, TWS-TSO72HVA, TWS-TSO27HFA, TWS-TSO36HFA, TWS-TSO51HFA, TWS-TSO63HFA, TWS-TSO72HFA, LS-LT0926H, LS-LT1226H, LS-LT1826H, LS-LT2426H, LS-LT2826HS, LS-LT3426HS, LS-LT3427HS, LS-LT1107V1, LS-LT1507V1, LS-LT2107V1, LS-LT2507V1, LS-LT2707V1, LS-LT3507V1.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> This promotion runs from now until 31 October 2012 or until 2,000 media centres are claimed. The air conditioner must be installed before a consumer can claim their free gift.</p> <p> Here’s McPhee describing the media centre:</p> <p> “Using the in-built Wi-Fi or an Ethernet connection, the Tecovision Android media centre can connect the consumer to the World Wide Web and online social networks. The integrated Flash card reader and USB ports instantly turns the consumer’s TV into a media centre. Running Google Android OS means the Tecovision Android media centre is ready to access the latest Android apps.Œ The media centre comes with a wireless keyboard/mouse remote, allowing relaxed use of the unit while the consumer sits on their lounge in their Teco Comfort Conditioned lounge room.”</p> <p> As with all these promotions, there are plenty of <a href="http://www.teco.com.au/claim/120418_Android_Promotion_Claim_Form_web.pdf" target="_blank">terms and conditions</a>. Œ</p> Tue, 08 May 2012 13:57:19 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/08/article/Sing-along-to-Panasonics-company-song/UOWBAAAYNC.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/08/article/Sing-along-to-Panasonics-company-song/UOWBAAAYNC.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> During UnderCurrent's travels to the Far East, we've constantly heard stories about Japanese and Korean brands having 'company songs', rousing ballads sung by employees and, UnderCurrent assumes, loyal consumers.</p> <p> After much trawling, UnderCurrent is today pleased and somewhat bemused to present the first in our series of company songs. Please sit back and enjoy opera star Sarah Brightman belting out Panasonic's memorably titled EcoIdeas ForŒA Better World (Shall Be Done)...</p> <p> </p> <p> UnderCurrent considers itself a bit of a chart geek, so it with some authority that we predict this song will not match the heights of Brightman's Australian #1 single Amigos Para Siempre.</p> <p> <a href="http://panasonic.net/shallbedone/" target="_blank">Read the lyrics of this masterpeice here</a></p> Tue, 08 May 2012 12:56:04 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/All-the-Mothers-Day-promotions-all-in-one-place/DGYGDBTYHO.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/All-the-Mothers-Day-promotions-all-in-one-place/DGYGDBTYHO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Mother’s Day is just around the corner and, like most years, the appliance brands are competing for the maternal dollar with a number of very alluring promotions. Here are all the 2012 Mother’s Day consumer promotions (that we know of) in one place:</p> <p> Nespresso</p> <p> The Deal: $75 cashback on both the two new Maestria machines and machines in the Lattissima range and $50 cashback on Pixie, Citiz and Essenza ranges.</p> <p> Key Dates: Already started, ends on 16 May 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.nespresso.com/promo/AU_en/yep.html" target="_blank">Nespresso's cashback website</a></p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Jura</p> <p> The Deal: $300 accessories gift card for consumers of the GIGA 5, $200 card with purchases of the Impressa J9.3 TFT Chrome and the Impressa Z7; $100 cards with the Impressa C9 OT, Impressa J9.2 and J9.3 OT; and $50 cards for the ENA Micro 9 and ENA 9 OT.</p> <p> Key Dates: Promotion ends 27 May 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.au.jura.com/home_au_x.htm" target="_blank">Jura Australia's website</a></p> <p> De’Longhi</p> <p> The Deal: $250 cashback on the EABI6600, ESAM6700 and ESAM6600 machines; $100 cashback on the ECAM26455M and ESAM5600 units; and $50 back on the ECAM23450S, ECAM23210B and ESAM03110S models.</p> <p> Key Dates: Promotion is valid through until 31 May 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.delonghi.com.au/redemptions/" target="_blank">De'Longhi's cashback website</a></p> <p> Philips Saeco</p> <p> The Deal: $200 EFTPOS gift card with the purchase of any Xelsis machine (excluding the Class White); $100 gift card with purchases of the Exprelia or Royal machines; and a $75 card with purchases of the Syntia, Intelia and Xelsis Class White machines. In addition to the gift cards, all purchases of any of these machines will come with a Vittoria Gift Pack valued at $100.</p> <p> Key Dates: Promotion ends 31 May 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.promotion.philips.com/au/en/detailpage/coffee/" target="_blank">Philips' promotions website</a></p> <p> Sunbeam</p> <p> The Deal: Consumers who purchase any Sunbeam product will go in the running to win one of five trips to Sydney to dine at Billy Kwong (prize includes return airfares, accommodation and $300 spending money).</p> <p> Consumers who purchase one of six coffee machine products go in the draw to win a trip to a coffee plantation in Byron Bay, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/26/article/Sunbeams-Mothers-Day-promos-lure-foodies-and-coffee-lovers/ALAGCSIVRS.html" target="_blank">Click here for a list of these products</a>.</p> <p> Sunbeam is also offering a Kylie Kwong cookbook free with the purchase of a number of products in its range. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/26/article/Sunbeams-Mothers-Day-promos-lure-foodies-and-coffee-lovers/ALAGCSIVRS.html" target="_blank">Click here for the full list of products</a>.</p> <p> Key Dates: All promotions run until 30 June 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.sunbeam.com.au/au/promotions/dinner-at-kylie-kwong's/" target="_blank">Sunbeam's promotions website</a></p> <p> Bosch</p> <p> The Deal: Consumers who purchase a Bosch Kitchen Machine, Hand Blender or Food Processor can enter a draw to win $15,000 worth of Bosch appliances and a trip to Sydney to act as the food editor at Home Beautiful Magazine. To enter, consumers must create a recipe using their new appliance. There are 10 runners up prizes of a Bosch Hand Blender (RRP $229). <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/13/article/Bosch--Samsung-Mothers-Day-promotions/BELFPJOKJZ.html" target="_blank">Click here for the full list of products in this promotion</a>.</p> <p> Key Dates: Promotion runs until 18 June 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.bosch-home.com.au/about-bosch/promotions.html" target="_blank">Bosch's promotions website</a></p> <p> Samsung</p> <p> The Deal: There are $200, $100 and $50 gift cards available with the purchase of selected Samsung washing machines and refrigerators. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/13/article/Bosch--Samsung-Mothers-Day-promotions/BELFPJOKJZ.html" target="_blank">Click here for a full list of products</a>.</p> <p> Key Dates: Promotion runs until 5 May 2012. Consumers must redeem their gift card online within 14 days of purchase and before 17 May 2012 (whichever is sooner).</p> <p> <a href="http://www.samsung.com/au/promotions/index.html" target="_blank">Samsung's promotion page</a></p> <p> Panasonic</p> <p> The Deal: A free Tupperware set valued at RRP $65 is available with purchases of selected models in Panasonic’s Inverter Microwave range. The models are: ST557W, SF550W, ST641S, ST651S, ST671S, ST680S and SD691S.</p> <p> Key Dates: Promotion finishes on 15 May 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://panasonic.com.au/Promotions" target="_blank">Panasonic's promotions website</a></p> <p> Uniden</p> <p> The Deal: Consumers who purchase either the XDECT6135BTU+2 or XDECT6135BTU+1 models of Uniden cordless phones with Bluetooth and USB connectivity will receive a free pair of Cresyn Earphones with Swarovski Cut Crystal.</p> <p> Key Dates: Promotion closes on 30 June 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://uniden.com.au/AUSTRALIA/cs_current_promotions.asp" target="_blank">Uniden's promotions website</a></p> <p> Whirlpool</p> <p> The Deal: Whirlpool is offering consumers a $60 Endota Spa Gift Card with the purchase of either the 7.5kg Front Loader Washer (WFS1073DD) or the 7.5kg Sports Washer (WFS1274CD).</p> <p> Key Dates: Promotion closes on 3 June 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.guesswhosemum.com.au/" target="_blank">Whirlpool's promotions page</a></p> <p> Nilfisk</p> <p> The Deal: Consumers who purchase any model from Nilfisk's Extreme series will receive a free Nilfisk Handy Vac (RRP $89).</p> <p> Key Dates: Promotion runs from 1 May 2012 to 31 May 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://consumer.nilfisk.com.au/" target="_blank">Nilfisk's website</a></p> <p> Electrolux</p> <p> The Deal: Consumers who purchase any model from the new Lavazza A Modo Mio by Electrolux capsule coffee machine range will be eligible for $50 cash back.</p> <p> In floorcare, consumers who purchase any Electrolux vacuum can enter a draw to win one of two Mother's Day prize packs, including limousine transfers, lunch and a day spa visit, valued at over $3,000.</p> <p> Key Dates: Coffee promotion closes on 3 June 2012; floorcare promotion closes on 20 May 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.lavazzamodomio.com.au/en-au/index.html" target="_blank">Lavazza A Modo Mio website</a> <a href="http://www.electrolux.com.au/Campaigns3/Promotions3/" target="_blank">Electrolux's promotions website</a></p> <p> Kenwood</p> <p> The Deal: Pasta accessory packs valued at RRP $299 are available with purchases of selected Kenwood and kMix kitchen machines. There areŒalso $30 and $50 cashback offers on a wide range of Kenwood small appliances. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/Kenwood-offering-gifts-and-cash-for-Mothers-Day/RTDWKXPOEJ" target="_blank">Click here for the full list</a>.</p> <p> Key Dates: All promotions run until 31 May 2012.</p> <p> <a href="http://kenwood-australia.com/corporate/redemptions/" target="_blank">Kenwood's promotions website</a></p> <p> Have we missed a promotion? <a href="mailto:info@current.com.au">Click here to get in touch</a>.</p> Tue, 17 Apr 2012 05:52:52 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/07/article/RIM-wakes-us-up-by-screaming-mixed-metaphors-about-corks-and-breakfast/AYFYBQKEOS.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/07/article/RIM-wakes-us-up-by-screaming-mixed-metaphors-about-corks-and-breakfast/AYFYBQKEOS.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Research In Motion, manufacturers of BlackBerry devices, has completed the big reveal promised in its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/BlackBerry-maker-RIMs-Wake-Up-campaign-the-best-marketing-event-of-2012/DWNGQIWEKF" target="_blank">‘Wake Up’ campaign</a>. The vendor today has an advertising wrap in News Limited tabloids, including Sydney’s The Daily Telegraph, which screams at readers “PUT DOWN YOUR TOYS”.</p> <p> Following on from its much-hyped ‘protest’ at the Apple Retail Store in Sydney, RIM has continued to take swipes at the iPhone manufacturer, using its ad buy and its website to say that modern, successful businesspeople, “Don’t just think different...you do different” [RIM’s emphasis].</p> <p> “Think Different” was the slogan Apple used to promote its Mac computers in a 1997 marketing campaign.</p> <p> In the most bizarre line of copy from this advertisement, RIM mixes its metaphors to declare that, “You’re either here to leave your mark and eat opportunity for breakfast OR you’re satisfied to just float through life like a cork in a stream” [RIM’s emphasis].</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Like a wartime president rallying the troops, RIM claims that, “You’re either in business or you’re not” and that there’s “no middle ground” between being a businessperson using a BlackBerry and anyone currently reading this on any other device, presumably in a river or some other creek-like geographical feature.</p> <p> Research In Motion has expanded on its initial Wake Up slogan to create what appears to be a new masterbrand for BlackBerry: <a href="http://www.wakeupbebold.com/" target="_blank">“Wake Up. Be Bold”</a>.</p> <p> Although Research In Motion paid for Australian journalists to attend its conference in the United States, there has been very little news emanating from this event. Much of the reporting has focused on a new operating system being released to app developers in beta and the introduction of financial incentives to developers to create more apps for the devices.</p> <p> Aside from waking up, eating opportunity for breakfast and working out whether you are in business or not, there is very little information from RIM about what consumers and potential consumers are then supposed to do, aside from purchasing a <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/05/03/article/BlackBerry-announces-thin-new-Bold-9900-with-new-OS/VADWDCNUTC.html" target="_blank">smartphone which is already nine months old</a>.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/IMAG0330 (2).jpg" width="532" /> Œ</p> Mon, 07 May 2012 14:51:50 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/07/article/Dick-Smith-using-sales-to-move-stock-at-closing-Sydney-stores/SZLBBWFADN.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/07/article/Dick-Smith-using-sales-to-move-stock-at-closing-Sydney-stores/SZLBBWFADN.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Woolworths has started closing Dick Smith stores in Sydney as it progresses with its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/01/31/article/Woolworths-to-sell-off-Dick-Smith--close-up-to-100-stores/GWEGUHAUMO" target="_blank">restructuring of the consumer electronics retailer</a>.</p> <p> Current.com.au understands that the Dick Smith stores in Bankstown, Lidcombe and Parramatta are currently being closed, with the below image of the Bankstown store at the Home Focus Centre on Canterbury Road illustrating the sale being held to clear stock.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="402" src="/image/photo(4).JPG" width="300" /> Œ</p> Mon, 07 May 2012 14:03:59 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/07/article/Sony-gives-bad-photos-a-second-chance-with-Cyber-shot-promo/HHGZYBUUKP.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/07/article/Sony-gives-bad-photos-a-second-chance-with-Cyber-shot-promo/HHGZYBUUKP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Sony has announced a new promotion sure to appeal to travellers and bad photographers alike, giving consumers the opportunity to travel anywhere in the world to re-take one of their favourite photographs.</p> <p> Sony is using its “No More Bad Photos” campaign to promote the Cyber-shot HX20 camera. By submitting a bad photo taken anywhere around the world (think blurry shots of Beijing or poorly-lit Parisian street scenes), lucky winners will get the chance to travel back to the location where their original photo was shot and take it again with the Cyber-shot camera.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Sony Australia’s product manager for digital still cameras, Anthony Moy, explained.</p> <p> “With so many ways to share our photos and experiences popping up, it’s not enough just to say you went somewhere – now the photos you share get viewed and reviewed by all your friends and family,” said Moy.</p> <p> “Our new Cybershot HX20 camera packs in simple to use features that make taking really great photos just so easy. Using Intelligent Auto Mode, Sweep Panorama, 20x Optical Zoom or Low Light shooting, you’ll be proud to share all your travel and adventure photos.</p> <p> “From that grainy evening shot at Uluru in 2007, to that over exposed shot of your friends on the great Ocean Road or that blurry shot of you with your ex in the Hollywood Hills, we are giving people a second chance to capture those missed moments, demonstrating every adventure looks better when captured with a Cyber-shot HX20.”</p> <p> The campaign will be promoted through the company’s Facebook page, with a special submissions app to go live on 14 May 2012. Winning images will then be used as a part of Sony’s marketing campaign for the Cyber-shot camera.</p> <p> No word yet on whether your ex will have to join you when you go back to re-shoot that image in the Hollywood Hills...</p> Mon, 07 May 2012 13:04:24 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/07/article/Intel-appoints-new-marketing-and-reseller-channel-managers/TRYQGFWFTT.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/07/article/Intel-appoints-new-marketing-and-reseller-channel-managers/TRYQGFWFTT.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Intel hasŒannounced two additions to its Australia and New Zealand management team, appointing Anna Torres as national marketing manager and V.R Rajkumar (Raj) as national reseller channel manager. Both appointments take effect immediately.</p> <p> Torres takes on the national marketing manager position following nine years’ experience at Intel, including work as a strategic relationship manager in Intel’s Enterprise group, and her most recent role as Intel Australia and New Zealand PR Manager (since 2007).</p> <p> “Anna has overseen some exceptional success during her time as Public Relations Manager and her creative approach to PR and marketing as well as her deep knowledge of Intel makes her an outstanding candidate for this role,” said Intel Australia and New Zealand GM, Kate Burleigh.</p> <p> “She will manage a highly skilled marketing team and together they will continue to focus on the growth and innovation of Intel’s brand in Australia and New Zealand.”</p> <p> In her new role, Torres will be “responsible for overall marketing strategy for Intel A/NZ and will manage a team which includes advertising, public relations, retail, online, partner and channel marketing”.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> As national reseller channel manager, V.R Rajkumar will be heading up Intel’s Local Channel and Branded Distribution Sales Team. He has been with Intel since 2000, including five years based in India and the past seven years in Australia, where he has held the role of Intel A/NZ distribution manager since 2007.</p> <p> “During his 12 years at Intel, Raj has amassed a great deal of knowledge,” added Burleigh. “He is well-known within the IT reseller channel and has presided over a number of critical technology transitions and new product introductions within his time, the most recent being the launch of Intel’s 3rd Generation processors and Ultrabook computers.</p> <p> “Raj’s extensive experience positions him well to lead and manage the local channel team through this exciting growth stage.</p> <p> “Anna and Raj have both been prominent and influential members of the Intel team for a number of years and will bring strong direction and vision to their new roles," she said.</p> Mon, 07 May 2012 09:02:16 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/06/article/Electrolux-takes-on-Nespresso-at-the-coal-face/JKFOBTPKSY.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/06/article/Electrolux-takes-on-Nespresso-at-the-coal-face/JKFOBTPKSY.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Last month, Electrolux announced the impending launch of a capsule coffee machine – produced in association with Lavazza – known as Lavazza A Modo Mio by Electrolux. The machine has hit stores, and already the battle lines are being drawn with the dominant brand in capsule coffee, Nespresso.</p> <p> At the glossy seven-level Myer store in Melbourne’s Bourke Street Mall, both brands were putting on their best face with live demonstrations and free cups of coffee for passersby. While Nespresso was certainly a recognisable brand for many store-goers, Electrolux was certainly generating some caffeine buzz of its own.</p> <p> At the store entrance on Bourke Street, alongside Myer employees who were handing out “last minute Mother’s Day gift ideas” catalogues, promotional staff in Lavazza aprons were handing out free capsules of Lavazza A Modo Mio coffee and inviting consumers to walk up to level five to claim their free cup.</p> <p> When Current popped upstairs to take a look, Electrolux and Lavazza’s stand was closest to the escalators, and was catching consumers before they headed to the Nespresso stand. This reporter saw a decent group of patrons around both stands, eager to try out the coffee and find out how the machines worked.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The live demonstration did more to sell the new Electrolux products than any passive signage could do, and it was a great lesson in successful salesmanship: an energetic rep who knew his products, knew how to engage the consumer and knew about a good up-sell – making sure to mention the milk frother bundled with all machines and the cash-back offer available on machines.</p> <p> No doubt there will be plenty of demonstrations just like this one playing out in retail stores all over the country in the lead up to Mother’s Day. Retailers are still clearly eager to appeal to consumers by following that old sales rule: let the product do the talking.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="219" src="/image/Lavazza and Nespresso.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> The Electrolux/Lavazza and Nespresso stands in Myer's Bourke Street Mall store.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="363" src="/image/Lavazza Demo_Myer.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> A Lavazza rep gives consumers a demonstration of the new Lavazza A Modo Mio by Electrolux machines.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="364" src="/image/Nespresso Stall_Myer.jpg" width="300" /></p> Nespresso was showing off its new machine - the Maestria. Sun, 06 May 2012 19:45:05 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/04/article/Heres-looking-at-you-First-peek-at-the-Samsung-Galaxy-S-III/RHIPJKIKEW.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/04/article/Heres-looking-at-you-First-peek-at-the-Samsung-Galaxy-S-III/RHIPJKIKEW.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> After much anticipation and speculation, Samsung launched the newest addition to its Galaxy range in London overnight, unveiling the Samsung Galaxy S III smartphone, billed by the president and head of Samsung Electronics’ IT and Mobile Communication division, JK Shin, as the “best in class smartphone in the world”.</p> <p> The Galaxy S III boasts a range of nifty new features, including eye recognition that keeps the screen on as long as the user as looking at it, the ability to play HD videos while emailing or texting thanks to the “Pop up play” feature, and Direct Call that allows the user to switch from texting to calling by moving the phone up to the ear.</p> <p> The smartphone features a 4.8-inch HD Super AMOLED display, as well as an 8-megapixel camera that is capable of taking a burst of 8 shots and choosing the best photo to keep. The phone also has facial recognition features that allow it to tag photos of friends and give the user the option of sharing images with them immediately.</p> <p> Despite having a larger screen than the 4.5-inch Galaxy S II, the newer iteration is only 1 gram heavier, and is 8.6-millimetres thick (compared to the 9.5-millimetre thickness of the S II). It also has a better battery (2,100mAh versus 1,850mAh) so it will “stay on longer than the average smartphone”.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> According to Shin, the smart technology inside the Galaxy smartphone makes the user experience more “effortless”.</p> <p> These advanced technologies “enable the phone to see you, listen to you and understand what you want,” he said. “The screen of the Galaxy S III recognises your eye movement and stays on while you are looking at it. It recognises your voice, to play your favourite song and turn the volume up or down. It understands your intention to make a call, and calls for you.”</p> <p> In an echo of the Siri voice-recognition feature on the rival Apple iPhone 4S, the Galaxy S III has S Voice that responds to voice commands, allowing the user to answer the phone or set an alarm with simple instructions.</p> <p> In terms of connectivity, the S III features NFC capability – or “S Beam” as it is known in Samsung parlance – as well as AllShare Cast and AllShare Play for sharing content between devices such as a TV or PC.</p> <p> “All these best in class hardware features are incorporated in a thin and slick design,” added Shin. “Inspired by water, wind, leaves and pebbles, the Galaxy S III design mimics the warmth and beauty of nature.”</p> <p> The phone will be available in marble white and pebble blue, and is set to be launched in 145 countries worldwide, “forming the largest number of customers at launch in Samsung mobile history”.</p> <p> However, the S III looks to be some way off for Australia. According to Shin, “The 3G will version will be launching at the end of May, starting in Europe, followed by Russia, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America,” while the 4G version “will come to North America, Japan and Korea in the summer”.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="582" src="/image/Galaxy S III Marble White.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> The Galaxy S III smartphone in Marble White.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="584" src="/image/Galaxy S III Pebble Blue.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> The rear of the Pebble Blue model phone.</p> Fri, 04 May 2012 11:19:08 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/04/article/Electrolux-Samsung-and-FP-top-Canstar-Blue-washing-machine-ratings/MIVDNIJQAN.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/04/article/Electrolux-Samsung-and-FP-top-Canstar-Blue-washing-machine-ratings/MIVDNIJQAN.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Canstar Blue has released the results from its latest customer satisfaction survey on washing machines, with Electrolux taking out top honours in the Front Loader category, and Samsung and Fisher & Paykel sharing the highest spot in the Top Loader washing machine category.</p> <p> The survey was conducted in association with research group Colmar Brunton and took responses from 586 consumers who had bought a top loader and 462 consumers who had bought a front loader in the last 3 years. Respondents were asked to rate products on a range of criteria, including value for money, performance, ease of use, noise, design, warranty, water efficiency and overall satisfaction.</p> <p> In the Front Loader category, Electrolux was the winner with the highest score of five stars in every touch-point except warranty (where it earned four stars). Bosch ranked second with five stars for water efficiency and value for money, and four stars across the remaining criteria.</p> <p> Fisher & Paykel and Samsung came in equal third with four star scores across the board and five star scores in Design, matched by LG which was a four-star favourite with a five star score in the Warranty division.</p> <p> Simpson and Whirlpool followed with three star scores in each touch-point, apart from Simpson’s four star score for value for money.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="164" src="/image/Canstar Front Loader Washing Machine.bmp" width="499" /></p> <p> The Canstar Blue table showing the rankings of Front Loader washing machines.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In Top Loaders, both Fisher & Paykel and Samsung received near perfect scores of five stars in all categories, aside from four star scores in value for money (Fisher & Paykel) and water efficiency (Samsung). LG was next in line with a combination of four stars and five stars, followed by Simpson then Whirlpool with a mixture of four and three star scores.</p> <p> Speaking about the research into the washing machine category, the manager of Canstar Blue, Rebecca Logan, said that “it was interesting to see almost half our respondents going upscale by choosing to invest in high-end washing machine.</p> <p> “When it came to cleaning non-delicate items in the washing machine, the survey revealed 40% of respondents invested more than $800 on the household essential item.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="135" src="/image/Canstar Top Loader Washing Machine.bmp" width="500" /></p> <p> The Top Loader washing machine rankings.</p> Fri, 04 May 2012 10:18:39 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/04/article/The-future-of-Dick-Smith-Exclusive-Interview-Part-2/KVPKTBYJHJ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/04/article/The-future-of-Dick-Smith-Exclusive-Interview-Part-2/KVPKTBYJHJ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Yesterday, Current.com.au presented <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/The-future-of-Dick-Smith-Exclusive-Interview-Part-1/OEARTHJYIO.html" target="_blank">an exclusive interview</a> with Dick Smith’s national operations manager, Armando Pedruco, regarding the future of the company and the current state of the retail industry. Today, we present part two of this special Q&A.</p> <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Current.com.au: What are Dick Smith’s strengths as a retailer?</p> <p> Armando Pedruco: We want to be known as a place where we’ve got great staff. We spend a lot of time and a lot of effort training all our people to know what consumer electronics are all about. The difference between us and some of those department stores is our knowledge and our service levels, and I think that’s really important.</p> <p> We’ve also got a really good range. We focus heavily on price – I think we have to be competitive in this market and we are absolutely competitive with anyone in this industry. Sometimes I think people don’t realise that. We’ve got some competitive prices and, as our promotion tells you, we do deals. If you see something cheaper at JB or Harvey Norman, come to Dick Smith because we’ll match that price and hopefully give you better service along the way. We’re really proud of that.</p> <p> C: Dick Smith obviously wants to focus on service, but is it difficult when other retailers are discounting heavily? As an example, consumers can walk into Big W and buy the New iPad for $40 below RRP – how do you compete with that?</p> <p> AP: I think it is a challenge. In terms of Big W, that is their strategy and they’re sticking with it. I think that’s important, and if you say you’re going to be the cheapest then you’ve got to do that.</p> <p> People coming to Dick Smith in that scenario would be about understanding what the iPad does, talking about what applications are available, and seeing our great accessories range too. Like I said, rather than just the price of the unit, we try to bundle a nice package for the consumer. They still might get that $40 off, but they might get in some other areas. It allows them to walk out the door with their product fully functional and working 100 per cent, and in the end the customer is getting a really good price. So it is a challenge, but we fight it through. The launch of iPad was really successful for us too, so we’re pretty excited that customers are loyal to our brand.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> C: What is Dick Smith’s plan for the immediate future?</p> <p> AP: We’re pretty confident, it’s just a matter of keeping focusing on the customer. We do a lot of research on our customers and they’re changing every day, so we’ve got to do the same, we keep changing as well. Our new Canberra store particularly is a really exciting one. Until we decide what’s happening with Dick Smith, it’s probably one of the last ones for a little while until we settle down. But it’s come up really well, the team’s done a great job, and we’ve got a lot of stores in Canberra, so we’ve captured the market quite well.</p> <p> C: In terms of more long-term strategies, if Dick Smith changes ownership (from Woolworths Limited to another company), how will you plan for that?</p> <p> AP: It’s always hard to go through. Our team has handled this really well – from Woolworths’ management to Dick Smith’s management. We’ve all worked closely to get the best outcome for Dick Smith and Woolworths as a group have invested a lot of money within Dick Smith.</p> <p> The decision has been made now that Dick Smith is going to be better run in the future as a part of a different organisation. Woolworths are a big box retailer, and we’ve never been a big box retailer – we’re a very specific, specialty retailer.</p> <p> Our retail teams are fantastic, they’ve handled the whole transitional change really well. They’re pumped, they love the brand still, they still turn up to work and give 100 per cent which is fantastic. Our customers through this period are probably getting better deals than ever before, probably better service than ever before, because the team all know that we’re fighting for our survival and for the future.</p> <p> We’re also communicating to our teams a lot and they know what’s happening as we learn what’s happening. And as I say, we’ve had a huge amount of support from Woolworths. As the leader of the operational team in Dick Smith, I really couldn’t have asked for anything more.</p> <p> Read <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/The-future-of-Dick-Smith-Exclusive-Interview-Part-1/OEARTHJYIO.html" target="_blank">The future of Dick Smith: Exclusive Interview (Part 1)</a></p> Fri, 04 May 2012 09:45:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/04/article/Harvey-Normans-franchisee-model-is-becoming-more-corporate-RBS/YLRQKWDBWR.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/04/article/Harvey-Normans-franchisee-model-is-becoming-more-corporate-RBS/YLRQKWDBWR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Harvey Norman issued its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Aggressive-discounting-blamed-for-25-drop-in-Harvey-Norman-profits/VWPBCGYXEV" target="_blank">third quarter sales results yesterday</a>, posting a year-on-year drop in profits of almost 25 per cent. According to the company’s chief financial officer Chris Mentis, the decline in profits could be attributed to increasing competition in the sector, particularly the discounting difficulties facing AV and IT franchisees.</p> <p> “The unaudited profit results clearly show the impact of the aggressive competitor activity in the AV/IT sector,” said Mentis in a report to the Australian Securities Exchange.</p> <p> “The franchisees have worked hard to maintain market share, however this has resulted in an increase in franchisee tactical support.”</p> <p> As <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Franchisees-ready-to-pounce-on-upturn-claims-Harvey-Norman-head-office/IHDOTJACZI.html" target="_blank">Current.com.au reported yesterday</a>, this tactical support includes a range of measures such as reduction in rental costs and franchise fees and increased advertising support, enacted by Harvey Norman Holdings to ease pressure on franchisees.</p> <p> In yesterday’s statement, Mentis emphasised that although there had been a downturn, franchisees were well placed to take advantage of consolidation in the industry.</p> <p> However, a new report released by RBS equities today shows that Harvey Norman’s franchisee structure is being increasingly corporatized, with Harvey Norman Holdings exercising more power over individual proprietors.</p> <p> In the report, analyst Dan Broeren said, “A number of questions in the analyst conference call [with Harvey Norman] focused on the potential fragility of AV/IT franchisees as competition accelerates.</p> <p> “Management emphasised again today its intention to use the franchisors balance sheet to support franchisees through their working capital requirements.</p> <p> “As such, we maintain the view that HVN maintains tight controls on franchisees to the extent that the model is effectively corporatized. The Australian store operational structure is becoming increasingly similar to the corporate model used in NZ.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In addition to these comments on the retailer's structure, Broeren posited that the “that current levels of acute discounting should abate”.</p> <p> “As irrational discounting eases and with pending new product releases in the TV category specifically, earnings momentum should recover,” he said.</p> <p> Despite this, there was still a risk that Harvey Norman could close more stores – specifically the recently rebranded Clive Peeters and Rick Hart stores.</p> <p> “The Ex-Clive Peeters and Ex-Rick Hart stores have delivered improved operational results after having been rebadged as Harvey Norman,” said Broeren. “However, the improvement seems to be low and we estimate unlikely to be more than the marketing and head office costs saved by closing the Clive Peeters business.</p> <p> “In our view, cannibalisation continues to be a major issue,” he added. “More than 50 per cent of converted stores have an existing store in the same suburb. As such, we would expect further store closures in future years.”</p> Fri, 04 May 2012 09:06:18 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Franchisees-ready-to-pounce-on-upturn-claims-Harvey-Norman-head-office/IHDOTJACZI.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Franchisees-ready-to-pounce-on-upturn-claims-Harvey-Norman-head-office/IHDOTJACZI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Despite today’s announcement of a <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Aggressive-discounting-blamed-for-25-drop-in-Harvey-Norman-profit/VWPBCGYXEV.html" target="_blank">24.8 per cent decline in profits</a> from the nine months to 31 March 2012, Harvey Norman company secretary Chris Mentis said the group’s franchisees were in a good position to capitalise on any upturn in the market.</p> <p> “While the unaudited profit results clearly show the impact of the aggressive competitive activity in the AV/IT sector, Harvey Norman franchisees are well placed to take advantage of the consolidation in the market,” Mentis said.</p> <p> This consolidation includes the market share freed up by the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/02/27/article/BREAKING-NEWS-WOW-Sight--Sound-goes-into-receivership-owing-29m/JEVJJCWDTU" target="_blank">collapse of WOW! Sight & Sound</a> in Queensland and several regional areas, and the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/01/31/article/Woolworths-to-sell-off-Dick-Smith--close-up-to-100-stores/GWEGUHAUMO" target="_blank">restructuring of the Dick Smith network</a>.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “The franchisees have worked hard to maintain market share, however, this has resulted in an increase in franchisee tactical support.</p> <p> “In addition, the strength of the Australian Dollar and continued price deflation has eroded average selling prices and, ultimately, retail gross profit margin.”</p> <p> ‘Franchisee tactical support’ refers to a mix of measures undertaken by Harvey Norman Holdings to ease some of its proprietors’ burdens. Examples include a reduction in rental costs for centrally owned stores, a reduction in franchisee fees and increased catalogue and advertising support.</p> Thu, 03 May 2012 11:53:57 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Aggressive-discounting-blamed-for-25-drop-in-Harvey-Norman-profits/VWPBCGYXEV.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Aggressive-discounting-blamed-for-25-drop-in-Harvey-Norman-profits/VWPBCGYXEV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Harvey Norman Holdings has today announced a profit decline of almost 25 per cent for the nine months to 31 March 2012, compared with the previous corresponding period. In an announcement to the Australian Securities Exchange, Harvey Norman revealed an unaudited profit of $204.8 million, down $67.5 million from the previous year.</p> <p> Harvey Norman’s global sales figure during this period totalled $4.39 billion, down 6.7 per cent; while like-for-like sales were down 6.6 per cent.</p> <p> This decline has been attributed to two core issues facing the retail consumer electronics industry: a disadvantageous currency exchange rate and a highly price-competitive marketplace; and the seasonal impact of low temperatures on air conditioners and cooling appliances.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Harvey Norman company secretary Chris Mentis noted in his report to the ASX that international sales have been negatively affected by a 5.9 per cent depreciation in the Euro and a 6.8 per cent drop in the Pound Sterling. Mentis further noted a slight improvement in the New Zealand Dollar, which has appreciated by 0.9 per cent.</p> <p> In line with <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/JB-Hi-Fi-projects-drop-in-annual-profits-despite-steady-sales/JGCMBMSTTG" target="_blank">JB Hi-Fi’s explanation for contracted profits</a>, Mentis said price erosion was a serious issue for the sector.</p> <p> “AV/IT franchise sales continue to be challenged,” said Mentis. “Technology categories continue to be affected by a decline in average selling price. This is attributable to the high Australian dollar and intense competitor activity.”</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/02/27/article/BREAKING-NEWS-WOW-Sight--Sound-goes-into-receivership-owing-29m/JEVJJCWDTU" target="_blank">The collapse of WOW! Sight & Sound</a> and the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/01/31/article/Woolworths-to-sell-off-Dick-Smith--close-up-to-100-stores/GWEGUHAUMO" target="_blank">structural reorganisation of Dick Smith</a> has been a significant contributor to increased pressure on prices, according to Mentis.</p> <p> The appliance categories have provided mixed results for Harvey Norman, with whitegoods performing well and the seasonal category disappointing.</p> <p> “The seasonal category underperformed due to the well-documented weather conditions,” said Mentis. “Appliances and whitegoods continued to perform solidly with growth in the quarter. Harvey Norman’s strategic position on these categories resulted in significant growth above the market for the period.”</p> <p> Despite a <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Activists-wage-fake-point-of-sale-campaign-on-Harvey-Norman/APCFCFATGM.html" target="_blank">political campaign against Harvey Norman’s sourcing practices</a>, Mentis reported that Furniture and Bedding sales have remained steady.</p> Thu, 03 May 2012 11:18:18 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/The-future-of-Dick-Smith-Exclusive-Interview-Part-1/OEARTHJYIO.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/The-future-of-Dick-Smith-Exclusive-Interview-Part-1/OEARTHJYIO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Earlier this year, Woolworths Limited, the owner of Dick Smith, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/01/31/article/Woolworths-to-sell-off-Dick-Smith--close-up-to-100-stores/GWEGUHAUMO" target="_blank">announced it was planning a divestment of the troubled consumer electronics retailer</a>. Woolworths’ CEO Grant O’Brien said the company would be closing up to 100 Dick Smith shopfronts in order to make the business more profitable, before selling off the retailer to a suitable buyer.</p> <p> Three months later, although a buyer has still not been announced, the planned store closures are going ahead. But questions still remain. What will happen to Dick Smith in the future? How can the retailer negotiate its way through the current difficulties of the retail industry while such a cloud hangs over its head? And finally, will Dick Smith survive this upheaval?</p> <p> Current.com.au spoke exclusively to Dick Smith’s national operations manager, Armando Pedruco, to talk about the future of this famous Australian brand and icon.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Current.com.au: What is the strategy behind the extensive store closures planned for Dick Smith? </p> <p> Armando Pedruco: The stores that we’re choosing to close are stores that for several reasons haven’t performed. In this environment, with profit being hard to come by in all retail, you can’t sustain having stores that aren’t making money. We open every store with the ambition of making it a profitable store, and looking after the surrounding area. But the reality is that a lot of these stores haven’t lived up to expectation, or we’ve had some problems with them.Œ</p> <p> We are tactically looking at our stores and asking, ‘Does it cover the area that we’re trying to achieve?’. If we’re closing one store, we absolutely have another store nearby that we believe can capture that market.</p> <p> We don’t need the overkill of three stores in an area of ten kilometres. That’s really hard to do now – rents aren’t getting any lower, and there’s a real challenge around productivity and how much that costs us these days.</p> <p> C: What are you hoping to achieve with the closures?</p> <p> AP: There are a lot of changes for retailers, and for us, our goal is to be around for the next 20 years. Though some of these decisions seem from an external view to be harsh, for us it’s all about making sure we survive this really tough period that retail is going through, and come out of it at the other end really strong. We’ll continue to have a sustainable business in the future, which is what we’re all aiming for.</p> <p> C: Is it hard to plan for the future of Dick Smith when so much is up in the air?</p> <p> A: I think it is, but most of us retailers have been around for a while – we’ve probably gone through some tough times in the last 15 years and this is similar. The challenge for us in Australia is probably with the online space – Australia really doesn’t know where that could lead. I think if you visit Europe or the US, they have very developed online business. We’re probably not there yet, but we’re heading that way.</p> <p> But it’s important from the point of view of a bricks and mortar retailer that we don’t jump ship either, because there are still people, like myself for one, who love going out on the weekend and having a shop around. People still expect to come in and see a great range in our stores, as well as good prices and good service.Œ</p> <p> <img alt="" height="325" src="/image/Dick Smith_Armando Pedruco.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Dick Smith national operations manager, Armando Pedruco.</p> <p> Tomorrow: <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/04/article/The-future-of-Dick-Smith-Exclusive-Interview-Part-2/KVPKTBYJHJ.html" target="_blank">The future of Dick Smith: ExclusiveŒInterview (Part 2)</a>.</p> Thu, 03 May 2012 10:48:20 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Sony-launches-limited-edition-Scarlet-Red-PS3-with-60-premium/CKIILCHWOV.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Sony-launches-limited-edition-Scarlet-Red-PS3-with-60-premium/CKIILCHWOV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Sony Computer Entertainment is following in the footsteps of <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/06/03/article/Canon-has-Scarlet-Fever-new-limited-edition-red-EOS-1100D/ITYBPJXCAY.html" target="_blank">Canon</a> and <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/07/22/article/The-Force-is-strong-in-that-Star-Wars-Xbox-360-bundle-coming-soon/KSMNUGDRNH.html" target="_blank">Xbox 360</a> by releasing a limited edition, stylised version of the PlayStation 3.</p> <p> This new 320GB PS3 is a striking ‘Scarlet Red’ and will come bundled with two Dualshock 3 controllers in the same colour scheme.</p> <p> “With a huge line-up of exclusive AAA titles, Blu-ray player functionality, a world of online services via the PlayStation Network and now an all-new eye catching colour, there has never been a better time to discover the power of PS3,” reads the media release.</p> <p> The new PS3 will be available from “select stores” for RRP $459. <a href="http://www.harveynorman.com.au/gaming/consoles/gaming-consoles" target="_blank">Harvey Norman online</a> is currently selling the original black 320GB PS3 for $398.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="302" src="/image/Limited edition PS3.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> The new Scarlet Red PS3.</p> Thu, 03 May 2012 10:41:15 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Haier-creates-new-national-sales-manager-role-for-local-team/AFKOYMIBCU.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Haier-creates-new-national-sales-manager-role-for-local-team/AFKOYMIBCU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Haier has today announced the appointment of Michael Ferguson to the newly-created role of national sales manager. The appointment, which will take effect immediately, will see Ferguson working with Haier’s “key customers to continue to drive the business” according to the company.</p> <p> “The creation of this new role reflects our brand’s increasing success and commitment to growth,” said the general manager of Haier Australia, Richard Bowe. “Michael brings a vast knowledge to this role and his past experience will be of huge benefit for us here at Haier.”</p> <p> That past experience includes his most recent role at Nestle, where he held the position of national sales operations manager and was responsible for a team of 51 staff, including 23 state and area managers.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Ferguson has also worked in a range of managerial and sales-focused roles at companies including Mars Australia and First Choice Holidays.</p> <p> “Over this time, Michael developed a keen understanding of marketing and sales trends, which has helped him achieve numerous business goals and objectives.”</p> <p> As national sales manager, Ferguson will be based at Fisher & Paykel’s national office in Lidcombe, Sydney. Haier and Fisher & Paykel have had a close relationship in both the local and Chinese markets since forming a joint strategic partnership in 2009.</p> <p> According to Bowe, Ferguson’s appointment comes at a strong time for the Chinese company. “We’re anticipating continued growth with 2012 set to be Haier’s most successful year in Australia,” he said.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="447" src="/image/Haier_Michael Ferguson.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Haier's new national sales manager, Michael Ferguson.</p> Thu, 03 May 2012 09:48:46 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Appliances-Online-CEO-hits-out-at-discounting-rivals/NBLMLTDGZR.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/03/article/Appliances-Online-CEO-hits-out-at-discounting-rivals/NBLMLTDGZR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> John Winning, the founder of <a href="http://www.appliancesonline.com.au/?utm_source=winning.com.au&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=winning" target="_blank">Appliances Online</a> and the CEO of Winning Appliances and <a href="http://www.bigbrownbox.com.au/?utm_source=winning.com.au&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=winning" target="_blank">BigBrownBox</a>, has hit out at the discounting strategy of his rival retailers, including several NARTA stablemates.</p> <p> In the latest post on his <a href="http://winning.com.au/" target="_blank">Winning.com.au blog</a>, John Winning said it should come as no surprise that JB Hi-Fi’s performance has tailed off considering the company’s price-centric strategy.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “It has been widely reported that electronics retailer JB Hi-Fi has slumped to a 3-year low, after the chain cut its full-year profit outlook because rampant discounting has damaged margins,” Winning wrote.</p> <p> “Are you honestly shocked?</p> <p> “When your tag line is ‘Always Cheapest Prices’, it should be no surprise they would continue to discount against other retailers to the point of not being profitable. Price has become the only trick left as many businesses swap knowledgeable sales personnel for a cheapest price guarantee.</p> <p> “JB Hi Fi is not the only store with this cheap pricing mentality: other reputable brands stand by similar slogans and fellow online retailers even use words such as ‘cheap’, ‘discount’, ‘cash’, ‘negotiate’ and ‘price’ in their taglines.</p> <p> “I find these kinds of promises troubling, particularly those that incentivise negotiating or paying cash. They suggest a consumer will pay too much if they don’t negotiate, and many shoppers would rather not.”</p> <p> <a href="http://winning.com.au/" target="_blank">Click here to read the full post at Winning.com.au </a></p> Thu, 03 May 2012 09:37:18 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/Panasonic-launches-consumer-and-trade-Air-Conditioning-promotions/KPPSOIJPAF.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/Panasonic-launches-consumer-and-trade-Air-Conditioning-promotions/KPPSOIJPAF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Panasonic has launched two promotions for its air conditioning range: one for consumers and one for the trade.</p> <p> In air conditioning, Panasonic is offering a rebate to consumers off their power bill with the purchase of selected models in its range. There are 17,000 rebates to be awarded, on a first-come-first-served basis, with consumers having 21 days to register their purchase to receive the rebate.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> There are three tiers to this promotion, with $100, $150 and $200 rebates available on the following models:</p> <p> $100</p> <p> CS/CU-E9MKR, CS/CU-E12MKR, CS/CU-E15MKR, CS/CU-E9LKR, CS/CU-E12LKR, CS/CU-E15LKR, CS/CU-RE9MKR, CS/CU-RE12MKR and CS/CU-RE12JKR.</p> <p> $150</p> <p> CS/CU-E18MKR, CS/CU-E21MKR, CS/CU-E18LKR, CS/CU-RE18MKR and CS/CU-RE18LKR.</p> <p> $200</p> <p> CS/CU-E24MKR, CS/CU-E28MKR, CS/CU-E24LKR, CS/CU-E28LKR, CS/CU-RE24MKR, CS/CU-RE28MKR, CS/CU-RE24LKRŒ$200 and CS/CU-RE28LKR.</p> <p> This promotion runs from now until 31 August 2012. Check out <a href="http://www.panasonicpromo.com.au/2012PowerRebate/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Panasonic’s promotions webpage</a> for all the details, including a handy countdown.</p> <p> For air conditioner sales staff, Panasonic is offering a free Econavi winter jacket for salespeople who complete an <a href="http://genius.panasonic.com.au/www/welcome.cfm" target="_blank">online training module</a>. This offer is running until 30 June 2012.Œ</p> Wed, 02 May 2012 14:26:49 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/Hisense-bolsters-TV-line-up-with-extensive-2012-launch-campaign/HEOCYPRDZP.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/Hisense-bolsters-TV-line-up-with-extensive-2012-launch-campaign/HEOCYPRDZP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Hisense Australia has today announced its TV product line-up for 2012, announcing 16 new LED models and 5 LCD models in various screen sizes that are set to be released over the coming months.</p> <p> While Hisense is delivering three tiers of product (with televisions at entry-, mid- and premium-level price points), the company’s overarching focus is on LED, Smart TV and 3D technologies as well as larger screen sizes, according to Hisense Australia's head of marketing, Andre Iannuzzi.</p> <p> “The weight is increasingly towards LED for us, as well as a focus on large sized products as well,” Iannuzzi told Current.com.au. “For us, this is definitely where the market is going. We’re delivering so much technology – almost half of our line-up is 3D, and that technology is being offered in large sizes. So it’s really market demand that is driving large TVs.</p> <p> “Hisense is focusing its expertise and energy in this large TV segment of the market. Twelve models or 57 per cent of our 2012 line-up are in the 42-inch to 65-inch size categories with the overwhelming majority offering 3D technology and Smart TV features.</p> <p> “It’s really about providing the best features to the consumer at an affordable price,” he said.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> At the premium end of the line-up are the new XT770 models (available in August in 55- and 42-inch screen sizes) and the 55-inch XT710 (available in June), both of which feature built-in Wi-Fi capability, Full HD 1080p resolution, active 3D technology, USB recording, and Smart TV such as apps and locally-focused content.</p> <p> In June and August, the company will also be releasing the mid-range K560 (42-, 55- and 65-inch models) and K316 (32-, 42- and 50-inch models). Finally, at the entry-level price point, Hisense will launch the K300, C10 and D11 ranges in June, July and August respectively, while the existing K16 and V78 ranges will be bolstered with additional screen sizes in April and May.</p> <p> “The team at Hisense Australia is in for a busy, challenging and ground-breaking year as we continue to strengthen our commitment to Australian customers,” said Iannuzzi. “By offering the latest technologies and leading Australian TV industry warranty we continue to strengthen our position in the Australian market.”</p> <p> Hisense Australia currently distributes products nationally through The Good Guys, JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Clive Anthonys, Betta Electrical, and select Retravision stores.</p> Wed, 02 May 2012 13:17:44 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/BlackBerry-maker-RIMs-Wake-Up-campaign-the-best-marketing-event-of-2012/DWNGQIWEKF.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/BlackBerry-maker-RIMs-Wake-Up-campaign-the-best-marketing-event-of-2012/DWNGQIWEKF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Opinion by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> After returning from EuroCucina in Milan last week, I found upon my desk the creepiest letter I have ever received. It came in a black envelope with a handwritten address and no indication of who sent it.</p> <p> Written on black paper in white marker was the simple text:</p> <p> Dear Patrick, Wake Up.</p> <p> There was absolutely no indication of who sent it to me and, having been out of the country for 10 days, I was unaware that billboards were displaying the same message, a pool had been branded with this two-word literary accelerant or that a protest had been staged outside the Apple Retail Store in Sydney. It was a strange, befuddling and ultimately unsettling piece of correspondence.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> My discomfort did not last long. I am an avid reader of the excellent media and marketing trade website <a href="http://mumbrella.com.au/" target="_blank">mUmbrella</a> (its styling). A story with no byline was posted on that site under the headline: <a href="http://mumbrella.com.au/samsung-galaxy-launch-believed-to-be-behind-wake-up-teaser-campaign-87691" target="_blank">“Samsung Galaxy launch believed to be behind ‘Wake up’ teaser campaign”</a>.</p> <p> This story filled me on what had taken place so far: this strange black letter was simply part of a marketing campaign and not some surreptitious attempt to correct my admittedly bizarre sleeping patterns. But I was never convinced of Samsung’s involvement.</p> <p> Aside from the obvious, that the countdown was not in-synch with the Galaxy S III’s launch, there were a number of clues that immediately made me discount Samsung’s involvement, first among them was the use of black when Samsung universally uses a deep blue.</p> <p> If not Samsung, then who? The RIM speculation was already in full swing by the time Samsung denied any involvement, and I received confirmation of RIM’s involvement from industry sources 48 hours before the BlackBerry handset manufacturer claimed responsibility yesterday morning.</p> <p> Even before releasing this statement, journalists across the media, technology and business beats had begun beating RIM over the head for this campaign.</p> <p> The <a href="http://afr.com/p/national/teaser_may_be_advertisers_wake_up_pUfJprMPYEwEkqXbbzm6RJ" target="_blank">AFR’s David Ramli quoted John Mescall</a> from ad agency McCann saying, “Campaigns like this are a very cheap trick, [and] can backfire if the main event doesn’t live up to the hype and I guess Kony2012 is a great example of that.”</p> <p> The masthead that originally discovered RIM’s involvement, MacTalk, <a href="http://www.mactalk.com.au/content/rim-behind-wake-up-stunt-apple-store-not-samsung-2293/" target="_blank">editorialised under the byline “fulltimecasual”</a> (its styling) that, “It's Poor Old RIM who put together this embarrassing campaign. It's heartbreaking that even when RIM try something cool, they end up screwing it up so badly that no-one even imagines it could be them.”</p> <p> <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/blackberry-stunt-at-sydney-apple-store-too-little-too-late-20120501-1xvui.html" target="_blank">James Manning at the SMH quoted Tipherath Gloria</a>, a “social media strategist” from VML Australia, saying “The punch line, which is the fact that BlackBerry is behind it, is what makes it fail because BlackBerry is not associated with any kind of success”.</p> <p> Gloria is wrong with that last piece of social media strategy analysis: this has been a tremendously successful campaign – comfortably the best so far of 2012.</p> <p> Research In Motion is currently having its annual BlackBerry gabfest in Orlando, Florida. A large number of tech journos didn’t even know this was happening (including this reporter), and apparently there is going to be a big reveal sometime on Sunday afternoon (Australian time). This marketing campaign has not only got the attention of the tech and marketing press, it’s transcended into the consumer and business titles, the man on the street and the unfortunate souls who for some reason watch breakfast TV.</p> <p> The <a href="http://youtu.be/Ldq2tNLRDwA" target="_blank">original video of the Apple Retail Store protest</a>, uploaded by Nate “Blunty” Burr after a tip-off by RIM, went global (almost 460,000 views at the time of writing), with coverage in <a href="http://www.latimes.com/business/technology/la-wake-up-apple-store-protest-was-blackberry-marketing-stunt-20120501,0,6552302.story" target="_blank">Los Angeles</a>, <a href="http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/rim-was-behind-apple-store-wake-up-protests-1078237" target="_blank">London</a> and even <a href="http://www.telecomtiger.com/Corporate_fullstory.aspx?passfrom=breakingnews&storyid=14083&section=S162" target="_blank">New Delhi</a>. This is much, much more exposure than RIM could have ever received from spending the same amount of money on a couple of boring old TVCs.</p> <p> The inescapable truth of this episode is that too many journalists were duped into believing it was Samsung, and when they were wrong, they took their revenge on RIM.</p> <p> There is an old saying in the newspaper game, one memorably repeated by Toby Ziegler on The West Wing: “Never pick a fight with someone who buys ink by the barrel”. Online journos have an unlimited amount of space to negatively editorialise once they are angry, and the chagrin many have felt at being wrong, which is clearly different to being deceived, has been palpable.</p> <p> RIM’s mistake was not a bad marketing campaign — it was delivering it to an audience unwilling to accept a good one.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="425" src="/image/img-4301652-0001(2).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> A scan of the letter RIM sent Current.com.au.</p> <p> Disclosure:</p> <p> The author of this article has received several BlackBerry handsets from RIM under long term loan agreements. The author currently uses a fully-paid for Apple iPhone 4S.</p> Wed, 02 May 2012 12:13:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/Has-Harvey-Norman-flown-over-the-cuckoos-nest/ILWKYFUQCG.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/Has-Harvey-Norman-flown-over-the-cuckoos-nest/ILWKYFUQCG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> You certainly can’t blame Gerry Harvey for keeping all his eggs in one basket. The head of the Harvey Norman retail chain has branched out into online sales, direct importing of console games and daily deals that bring consumers much-need products at low, low prices.</p> <p> And what does every discerning Australian consumer need? A chicken coop!</p> <p> <img alt="" height="223" src="/image/Big Buys Chicken Coop.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> I bet you’re tired of chicken coops that only hold one lousy chicken. Well fear not, this palatial coop will hold 2 to 3 chickens!</p> <p> <img alt="" height="278" src="/image/Big Buys Coop 1.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Sick of spending your hard-earned monthly chicken budget on exorbitant cooping costs? The top-of-the-lineŒmodel doesn’t sell for the arbitrarily chosen outlandish figure of $299! It’s half price at just $148!</p> <p> <img alt="" height="173" src="/image/Big Buys Coop 2.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> But many people keep 2 to 3 chickens for more than just looks. What about my precious eggs? Harvey Norman Big Buys has taken out the guess work by “providing easy egg collection and cleaning access”. And, thanks to the new design, Mr and Mrs Chicken (with a potential third Baby Chick) will be able to use both a rear and front door to receive guests.</p> <p> The <a href="http://www.harveynormanbigbuys.com.au/BuyDetailsPage.aspx?itemNo=DXH001" target="_blank">deal is only on available until midday</a>, so hopefully you get a chance to take up the offer. Otherwise, just like a consumer electronics retailer selling farming wares,Œyou and your 2 to 3 un-cooped chickens will look very foolish indeed.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="216" src="/image/Big Buys Coop Main page.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Œ</p> Wed, 02 May 2012 11:33:16 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/April-is-the-coolest-month-at-Current-com-au-our-biggest-stories/QHHZALXVTK.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/02/article/April-is-the-coolest-month-at-Current-com-au-our-biggest-stories/QHHZALXVTK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Nobel Prize winning poet and the doyen of transatlantic literature TS Eliot was wrong when he wrote that April is the cruellest month, with Current.com.au continuing to grow its readership with a slew of exclusives, features and interviews.</p> <p> Here are Current.com.au’s five biggest stories for April 2012:</p> <p> 1. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Dick-Smiths-1-Sale-Retailer-offers-apology-with-gaming-discounts/LVHYONGQLK.html" target="_blank">Dick Smith's $1 Sale: Retailer offers apology with gaming discounts</a></p> <p> Following a bungled sale at the beginning of the month which saw disgruntled consumers walking away empty handed, Dick Smith has extended its “Game On” gaming sale. The retailer came under fire after details of a sale were allegedly leaked online.</p> <p> 2. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/24/article/Important-ANZAC-Day-retail-trading-information/ZWSGIQEDND.html" target="_blank">Important ANZAC Day retail trading information</a></p> <p> Our annual feature outlining how the ANZAC Day public holiday affects the several states and territories was once again extremely popular. I only managed to tip one win amongst the three football games, though my Essendon by 1 point prediction was frustratingly close to an exact result.</p> <p> 3. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Samsung-unveils-new-LED-TV-range-with-a-promise-to-consumers/SCQTIYHVHM.html" target="_blank">Samsung unveils new LED TV range, with a promise to consumers</a></p> <p> After revealing its new product line-up at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier in the year, Samsung unveiled the new additions to its Smart TV line-up in Sydney, with an entry-level LED range joining its Slim LED range and marking the end of the company’s involvement in the LCD category.</p> <p> 4. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Activists-wage-fake-point-of-sale-campaign-on-Harvey-Norman/APCFCFATGM.html" target="_blank">Activists wage fake point-of-sale campaign on Harvey Norman</a></p> <p> Harvey Norman is facing a PR crisis on its very own shop floors as environmental activists wage a guerrilla-style campaign on the retailer to protest the company's use of timber in furniture products.</p> <p> 5. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Smegs-denim-refrigerator-where-appliances-and-clothing-meet/DRWODMKEDU.html" target="_blank">Smeg's denim refrigerator: where appliances and clothing meet</a></p> <p> Smeg has achieved the seemingly impossible, merging clothing and refrigeration into a single product. The new FAB28RDB is a fully functional 1950s style refrigerator with a denim coating – suffice to say this is a world first.</p> <p> During April, Current.com.au’s Top 5 countries-by-visitors was:</p> <p> 1. Australia 2. United States 3. New Zealand 4. United Kingdom 5. India</p> Wed, 02 May 2012 11:08:39 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/ANZRP-signs-Dell-Pioneer-NEC-Uniden-and-Epson-amongst-16-new-partners/EDITDDKPCJ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/ANZRP-signs-Dell-Pioneer-NEC-Uniden-and-Epson-amongst-16-new-partners/EDITDDKPCJ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> The Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform (ANZRP) this afternoon announced the signing of 16 new members to its organisation.</p> <p> Under the terms of the TV and PC Recycling Scheme, all importers of TVs and PC hardware products must join an approved recycling program. So far, three have been approved: ANZRP, DHL Supply Chain Australia and E-Cycle Solutions.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The 16 new members of ANZRP are: Amicroe Australia, Bluechip Infotech, Brother International, Dell Australia , Dicker Data, Direct Memory Access, EMC Global Holdings Company, Epson Australia, Medion AG, NEC Australia, Pioneer Electronics Australia, Rectron Electronics, Targus Australia, The Reject Shop, Thorn Group and Uniden Australia.</p> <p> "These members are at the forefront of product stewardship in Australia dedicated to ensuring sound environmental outcomes and OH&S compliance.Œ Industry is funding the scheme and placing the environment first and in doing so providing a valuable community service," said ANZRP GM Carmel Dollisson in a statement.</p> <p> The first city to be serviced in this scheme will be Canberra, with <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/DHL-to-start-TV-and-PC-recycling-in-Canberra-from-15-May-2012/AHZVFOLJWS.html" target="_blank">DHL commencing operations in the Capital</a> from 15 May 2012.</p> <p> TV & PC Recycling Scorecard (1 MayŒ2012) ANZRP Panasonic Australia Toshiba HP Canon Amicroe Australia Bluechip Infotech Brother International Dell Australia Dicker Data Direct Memory Access EMC Global Holdings Company Epson Australia Medion AG NEC Australia Pioneer Electronics Australia Rectron Electronics Targus Australia The Reject Shop Thorn Group Uniden Australia DHL Sony Australia E-Cycle Solutions Retravision (strategic partnership)</p> Tue, 01 May 2012 15:53:09 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/Apple-opening-new-Perth-Brisbane-and-Canberra-Stores-in-aggressive-roll-out/BOGSCHYTMW.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/Apple-opening-new-Perth-Brisbane-and-Canberra-Stores-in-aggressive-roll-out/BOGSCHYTMW.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Apple is currently recruiting staff for three new Retail Stores, with Brisbane, Canberra and Perth outlets opening soon. Current.com.au tipped this move exclusively in <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/20/article/Apples-first-dividend-in-17-years-great-products-in-pipeline-3m-iPads-sold/BXDKGXUIKV.html" target="_blank">our analysis of Apple’s investor briefing</a> in March 2012.</p> <p> The new Brisbane store will be based in the south east of the city, much closer to the Brisbane River than the current store in Chermside, in the city’s north. This will be Apple’s third Queensland store, with the Gold Coast serviced by an outlet in Robina.</p> <p> The Australian Capital Territory – home to thousands of Mac-using hipsters from Australia’s number one university, ANU — will have its first Apple store when a Canberra outlet opens later this year. Previously, the nearest Apple store to Canberra was in Penrith, 285 kilometres away.</p> <p> And a new store in South Perth will double Apple’s Western Australia presence. There is currently an Apple Retail Store on Hay Street in the PerthŒcity centre.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> These new stores will bring Apple Australia’s total retail store figure up to 16. Currently there are seven stores in New South Wales, three in Victoria, two in Queensland and one in Western Australia.</p> <p> Current.com.au has contacted Apple Australia for more information on its store roll-out. Œ</p> Tue, 01 May 2012 14:25:33 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/JB-Hi-Fis-reputation-slips-as-punters-jump-on-the-Apple-brand-wagon/OFXBEBFAVV.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/JB-Hi-Fis-reputation-slips-as-punters-jump-on-the-Apple-brand-wagon/OFXBEBFAVV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Australians still value consumer electronics, but their focus has shifted from big retailers to big brands according to the Annual Corporate Reputation Index, released today by the marketing communications company STW Group.</p> <p> The Index listed Apple as the most reputable company, ousting retailer JB Hi-Fi from the top position, which it has held for the past two years. JB is now in third place behind Australia Post which took the runner-up position in the ranking.</p> <p> The Annual Corporate Reputation Index is produced every year by the research group AMR, and takes responses from over 6,000 Australian survey participants, aged between 18 and 64, who are asked to rank the top 60 companies in Australia (based on revenue in BRW’s top 1,000 listing).</p> <p> The result is a list of well-known companies spanning sectors such as retail, consumer electronics, the motoring industry and aviation. Each company is not only ranked on overall performance, but also judged on seven key criteria: Products & Services, Innovation, Workplace, Citizenship, Governance, Leadership and Financial Performance.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> One of the big movers in retail was David Jones which saw a recovery in its reputation over the past year, moving from 25th to 14th place. However, DJs still has ground to make up on its previous rankings – the company was in 8th place in 2010.</p> <p> “One of the big challenges facing David Jones going forward are perceptions around its ability to innovate – ranking 31st of the 60 companies,” said Oliver Freedman, reputation practice director and general manager of AMR Sydney.</p> <p> While David Jones climbed, Qantas fell. The beleaguered airline fell from 7th place in 2011 down to 25th place this year, following the embarrassing industrial action and fleet grounding that took place last year.</p> <p> Aside from JB Hi-Fi, two dedicated consumer electronics and appliance retailers made it in to the top 30 – The Good Guys at position 12 and Harvey Norman at position 28. Myer also scraped into the top 10, ranking as the 9th most reputable company.</p> <p> 2012 Corporate Reputation Index Overall Rankings (provided by STW): 1 Apple Australia 2 Australia Post 3 JB HI-FI 4 Toyota Motor Corporation 5 Nestle Australia 6 Virgin Australia 7 GM Holden 8 ING Direct 9 Myer 10 Mazda Australia 11 Air New Zealand 12 The Good Guys 13 Woolworths/Safeway 14 David Jones 15 Nissan Australia 16 Hewlett-Packard Australia 17 ALDI Australia 18 BlueScope Steel 19 IBM Australia 20 Bendigo and Adelaide Bank 21 Coca-Cola Amatil 22 Medibank Private 23 Suncorp-Metway 24 Wesfarmers 25 Qantas Airways 26 Lion Nathan National Foods 27 BHP Billiton 28 Harvey Norman 29 Foxtel 30 Westfield Group</p> Tue, 01 May 2012 14:17:56 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/Asko-cuts-prices-for-Swedish-Midsummer-Sale/NNRFJFEZNB.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/Asko-cuts-prices-for-Swedish-Midsummer-Sale/NNRFJFEZNB.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Claire Reilly</p> <p> Drawing on its Scandinavian heritage, Asko has announced the beginning of its Swedish Midsummer Sale with a range of laundry and cooking products reduced starting from today.</p> <p> In laundry products, Asko has cut $200 off the retail price of all washing machines. In addition, the whitegoods brand is offering consumers who purchase any Asko dryer in a package with any Asko washing machine the opportunity to save a total of $500. The promotion runs from 1 May to 31 July 2012.</p> <p> Asko provided the following washing machine prices as a guide to the possible savings: -W6444 was $1,499 now $1,299 -W6564 was $1,699 now $1,499 -W6884ECO was $1,899 now $1,699 -W6984Fi was $2,499 now $2,299</p> <p> The company is also extending its D5424 dishwashing reductions until 31 July 2012 (or until stocks last), offering the D5424WH dishwasher for $899 and the D5424SS for $1,099.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In cooking, Asko is offering two kitchen packages with savings of more than $1,000.</p> <p> Package One, on offer between 1 May and 31 October 2012, is being billed as a Premium Pack. Consumers who purchase the OP8651 Touch Control Sensor Pyrolytic Multifunctional Oven, the CC4840 86-centimetre Concealed Mounted Rangehood and the HI1832 80-centimetre Four Burner Induction Cooktop will pay $4,995, rather than the regular price of $6,497 – a saving of $1,502.</p> <p> Package Two, known as the Renovator / Upgrade Pack has two options, both on offer between 1 May and 31 October 2012.</p> <p> Consumers can purchase an OP8651 Touch Control Pyrolytic Multifunctional Oven for $3,099 and get a free T130 Five Burner Gas Cooktop (normally valued at $1,399); or they can purchase the OP8620 Electronic Pyrolytic Multifunctional Oven for $2,099 and receive a free T120 Four Burner Gas Cooktop (normally valued at $799).</p> <p> The Asko promotional offers are not available on seconds or commercial purchases, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.</p> Tue, 01 May 2012 12:56:55 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/Kenwood-offering-gifts-and-cash-for-Mothers-Day/RTDWKXPOEJ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/Kenwood-offering-gifts-and-cash-for-Mothers-Day/RTDWKXPOEJ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Kenwood is running a series of gift with purchase and cashback promotions on its kitchen appliance range in the lead-up to Mother’s Day. These promotions all run through until 31 May 2012.</p> <p> In the traditional Kenwood range, consumers will receive a free Pasta Entertainer Pack (RRP $299) with the purchase of a KM070, KM023, KM020, KMM770 or KMC510 Chef Kitchen Machine.</p> <p> For consumers of a KMX50, KMX51, KMX54, KMX93, KMX95, KMX97, KMX98 or KMX99 kMix Boutique Kitchen Machine, Kenwood is offering a bonus Pasta Attachment Pack valued at RRP $299.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In addition to these gifts with purchases, Kenwood is running two cashback programs. There’s $50 cashback on the FP980, FP950 and FP920 Food Processors, the MG700 Meat Grinder, the JE850 Juicer and the BL760 Blender; while the following products attract a $30 cashback offer: the FP270 and FP250 Food Processors, and the KM270C, KM270R, KM270W, KM270B, KM270Y, KM270P Patisserie Stand Mixers.</p> <p> All of these promotions are being conducted via redemption.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/KEN1558_MothersDay_%232460C42.jpg" width="438" /></p> <p> An example of the point of saleŒbeing used to promote this campaign. Œ</p> Tue, 01 May 2012 09:28:12 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/BlackBerry-maker-RIM-takes-responsibility-for-creepy-Wake-Up-campaign/XJARCPODFT.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/05/01/article/BlackBerry-maker-RIM-takes-responsibility-for-creepy-Wake-Up-campaign/XJARCPODFT.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> BlackBerry device manufacturer Research In Motion (RIM) has this morning taken responsibility for the 'Wake Up' campaign that confounded Sydneysiders and Melbournites over the last two weeks.</p> <p> In a statement issued this morning, a spokesperson said:</p> <p> "We can confirm that the Australian 'Wake Up' campaign, which involves a series of experiential activities taking place across Sydney and Melbourne, was created by RIM Australia. A reveal will take place onŒ7 MayŒthat will aim to provoke conversation on what 'being in business' means to Australians."</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> When Current.com.au contacted RIM's PR company late yesterday afternoon, we were told that all members of the team had been called into a meeting. When we did speak to a representative yesterday evening, there was no indication given that RIM was behind the campaign or that any statement would be forthcoming.</p> <p> The 'Wake Up' campaign has been incredibly successful in terms of attracting media coverage and speculation, though there has been significant push back over the last week, with a number of media types beginning to doubt whether any product could live up to this hype. As the coverage became more mixed, brands such as <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Samsung-denies-sort-of-the-bizarre-Wake-Up-campaign-against-Apple/JDMICFMIHZ.html" target="_blank">Samsung Electronics Australia actively distanced themselves</a> from the campaign, which included sending creepy, anonymous letters to journalists and media outlets.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="425" src="/image/img-4301652-0001(1).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> A scan of the letter RIM sent this reporter as part of the campaign.</p> Tue, 01 May 2012 09:09:19 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Samsung-denies-sort-of-the-bizarre-Wake-Up-campaign-against-Apple/JDMICFMIHZ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Samsung-denies-sort-of-the-bizarre-Wake-Up-campaign-against-Apple/JDMICFMIHZ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Samsung Electronics Australia has this afternoon (Monday 30 April 2012) issued a carefully worded statement that essentially denies any involvement in the bizarre Wake Up guerilla campaign that has emerged over the last fortnight.</p> <p> The statement in full, attributed to corporate marketing director Arno Lenier:</p> <p> “It's great to know we're front of mind with parts of the media as well as a good few bloggers when it comes to discussing campaigns like 'Wake Up'. As a market leader in smartphones we think Australians have already woken up to the multitude of choices available, but kudos to whoever is behind the campaignŒ- clearly it's captured significant attention in the market and we are as keen as everyone else to discover who is behind it. As ever, we look forward to providing all Samsung fans (and potential recruits) with even more freedom of choice in the future through our innovative range of smartphone devices.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Whilst not a flat-out denial, it is clear from this statement that the chances of Samsung being behind the campaign are now virtually nil. A convincing argument for Research In Motion, manufacturer of BlackBerry devices, being responsible,Œ<a href="http://www.macworld.com.au/blogs/is-rim-behind-the-embarrassing-wake-up-stunt-52406/" target="_blank">has been</a><a href="http://www.macworld.com.au/blogs/is-rim-behind-the-embarrassing-wake-up-stunt-52406/" target="_blank"> proposed by Macworld</a>.</p> <p> ThisŒreporter has receivedŒanonymous correspondence from the PR company conducting this campaign, a scan of which is here:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="425" src="/image/img-4301652-0001.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> In addition to sending creepy letters to journalists, the campaigners have also staged a protest at the Apple Retail Store in Sydney. In a case of amazing serendipity, popular blogger Nate "Blunty" Burr just happened to be there at the time, and captured this video:</p> <p> </p> Mon, 30 Apr 2012 15:46:16 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Forget-DubStep-Asko-has-DishStep/BDCYSVBYCO.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Forget-DubStep-Asko-has-DishStep/BDCYSVBYCO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent is a big fan of this newfangled style of music called dubstep. Apparently an American kid named Skrillex is the best singer of dubstep, though he may have some competition from Swedish appliance company Asko, which has released this dubstep-infused guide to its latest dishwashing range.</p> <p> Judging by the low standards of modern music, we can't help but feel that all this video needs is some exposure and we'll soon see it on one of those music video channels that are popular with the kids these days...</p> <p> </p> <p> And here's a Skrillex video for comparison:</p> <p> </p> Mon, 30 Apr 2012 15:02:00 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Sunbeam-back-for-another-season-of-MasterChef-Australia/HZAGKJHOQL.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Sunbeam-back-for-another-season-of-MasterChef-Australia/HZAGKJHOQL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Sunbeam has announced that it has returned as a major sponsor of MasterChef Australia. The first three seasons of MasterChef have been phenomenally successful, with the show regarded as the most successful TV series of the 2010s.</p> <p> “Our involvement with MasterChef Australia allows us to take Sunbeam products into the homes of consumers and demonstrate the appliances in action,” said marketing manager Nicole Crowley.</p> <p> “We’ve found in recent years that product sales increase during programs such as MasterChef Australia. Our association allows us to showcase our products in the best location, the kitchen.</p> <p> “This partnership has had a positive impact on our sales and marketing programs in recent years and this demonstrates the direct influence that an association with programs such as MasterChef have on the Sunbeam name: it is so much more than brand awareness.”</p> <p> Crowley said this sponsorship will involve 13 products in the range, including the Planetary Mixmaster, Blender and Food Processor from the Cafe Series, as well as the FoodSaver and StickMaster Pro.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Sunbeam is also the sponsor of Channel Seven’s My Kitchen Rules cooking program.</p> <p> “Earlier this year, Sunbeam was the small appliance supplier on My Kitchen Rules and just as on My Kitchen Rules, we believe Sunbeam products will become a vital ingredient for contestants on MasterChef Australia,” said Crowley.</p> <p> “The show gives us another platform to highlight our great range of products, as well as their diversity and ease of use.”</p> <p> And you can check out Channel Ten's promo for the new season here: </p> Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:52:42 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Investing-in-the-online-space-Dick-Smiths-e-commerce-strategy/GBIYZPDIEM.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Investing-in-the-online-space-Dick-Smiths-e-commerce-strategy/GBIYZPDIEM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> When <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/JB-Hi-Fi-projects-drop-in-annual-profits-despite-steady-sales/JGCMBMSTTG" target="_blank">JB Hi-Fi issued a trading update last week</a> to announce that it expects yearly profits to be weaker than first forecast, there was some good news amongst the grim figures – the company saw a 76 per cent increase in online sales for the three months to the end of March 2012.</p> <p> Australia’s big retailers certainly recognise the importance on online retail to their businesses, whether as a rising threat or as a cohesive part of their omni-channel or multichannel strategies. And one company that has successfully integrated e-commerce into its larger retail roadmap is Dick Smith.</p> <p> Current.com.au spoke exclusively to Dick Smith’s national operations manager, Armando Pedruco, to talk about the company’s online strategy and how Dick Smith is capitalising on the opportunities available online.</p> <p> “Obviously the biggest focus for most retailers at the moment is how to get the online business,” said Pedruco. “Our online model is actually a very good one. We won the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/09/28/article/Appliances-Online--Dick-Smith-awarded-as-leaders-in-online-retail/XTUMUZWNOQ.html" target="_blank">Online Retailer of the year</a> [in 2011] and I think we’ve probably got the best website – it’s easy to use, customers can go in there and find information really easily.</p> <p> “We don’t over-promote on the website, so it’s actually a nice flowing site where people can research and really find out a full range of computers and TVs that we have.</p> <p> “But we also have a tactical strategy online – we do one hour deals and daily deals, and those things are doing really well. Some of them work fantastically well, some of them don’t work so well and we’re learning as we go through what the consumer is looking for from that point of view.</p> <p> “We’ve invested heavily in the online space. I think it’s really important to understand who your customers are, where they’re coming from and then really market towards them from an online point of view."</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> But while Pedruco said the online business was strong, he noted that bricks and mortar still forms an important part of Dick Smith’s operations.</p> <p> “In our business, a lot of people do their research online and use our website to find information. But customers are still coming into Dick Smith because I think people still want to talk to our staff. They want to be able to go through the range of the computers that we have and find out which one is best for them. They don’t necessarily get that on the internet just yet.</p> <p> “The people who know what they’re after are the internet purchasers. They know it, they can check the price and as long as that all fits, they’ll purchase the product. But a lot of our customers are first-time computer users – they still want to be able to talk about the product and understand what’s best for them.”</p> <p> While many consumers want to walk into a store to make their purchase, it’s no secret that Dick Smith will close up to 100 of its shopfronts across Australia in the coming months. While Pedruco conceded that this was caused in part by the poor performance of some stores, it was also part of the company’s strategy for the future.</p> <p> “We’re closing a few stores and that’s purely on the basis of what the future might look like for retail, particularly for Dick Smith,” he said. “Having over 430 stores and a really good online business is probably not going to marry together very well. So the fact is we are condensing our stores, but putting a lot more time and effort into our online."</p> Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:50:35 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/DHL-to-start-TV-and-PC-recycling-in-Canberra-from-15-May-2012/AHZVFOLJWS.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/DHL-to-start-TV-and-PC-recycling-in-Canberra-from-15-May-2012/AHZVFOLJWS.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> DHL Supply Chain Australia is the first of the three approved E-Waste recyclers to announce a start-date and location for the collection of obsolete TVs and PC hardware, with Canberra the first Australian city to be serviced.</p> <p> In a joint announcement today by Federal Senator Don Farrell and ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher, a 15 May 2012 commencement date was revealed, as were two transfer stations in the national capital: Mugga Lane and Mitchell.</p> <p> “DHL Supply Chain is the first industry arrangement administrator to identify collection sites and deliver services in the ACT under the new national e-waste scheme,” Gallagher said.</p> <p> “There are already two other approved providers under the scheme, which means more options for the consumer and more jobs in the recycling industry.”</p> <p> The other two recyclers are the industry group Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform and E-Cycle Solutions, which is owned by established industry specialist QLS Logistics.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> DHL Supply Chain has thus far announced only one manufacturing partner: <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/02/article/Sony--DHL-partner-for-TV-recycling-scheme/TMFLXRKNDK.html" target="_blank">Sony Australia</a>. Under the terms of the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme, all importers of TVs into Australia must align themselves with one of the approved recyclers.</p> <p> The two transfer stations identified as dropzones will accept both CRT and flat panel TVs, PCs, printers, keyboards, mice and hard drives. A media release announcing this program said the stations are open Sunday to Saturday from 7:30am to 5pm.</p> <p> TV & PC Recycling Scorecard (30 April 2012)</p> <p> ANZRP</p> <p> Panasonic Australia Toshiba HP</p> <p> DHL</p> <p> Sony Australia</p> <p> E-Cycle Solutions</p> <p> Retravision (strategic partnership)</p> Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:22:16 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Harvey-Norman-the-source-of-discounting-that-led-to-JBs-slide-RBS-report/NNCQZSUQWH.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/30/article/Harvey-Norman-the-source-of-discounting-that-led-to-JBs-slide-RBS-report/NNCQZSUQWH.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Following <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/JB-Hi-Fi-projects-drop-in-annual-profits-despite-steady-sales/JGCMBMSTTG" target="_blank">JB Hi-Fi’s profit downgrade last week</a>, a leading industry analyst has said that the company’s weaker than expected profit forecasts were the result of market-wide discounting, led by Harvey Norman.</p> <p> In a report on the JB Hi-Fi trading update, director and retail analyst at RBS Equities, Daniel Broeren, said it was “most likely” that the “recent level of aggressive discounting is the result of a short-term play for market share” by consumer electronics retailers.</p> <p> “To establish if or when industry discounting will ease, we need to go to the source,” said Broeren in the report. “In our view, the source of intense tactical discounting is Harvey Norman, and primarily to force industry consolidation. The destructive clearance activity seen by WOW Sight & Sound and Dick Smith is symptomatic of Harvey Norman’s tactical discounting, and is temporary.</p> <p> “Harvey Norman has made no secret of its desire for a more consolidated segment, and has been acting accordingly. We expect the disruption of store closures and inventory clearance to pass and gross profit margins to recover (in part).”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> According to Broeren, the aggressive discounting will stop when the opportunity to consolidate market share and pick up the customers lost by WOW and Dick Smith also dries up. Consequently, he argued that the “key catalyst” for this would occur when Woolworths announces its plans for the future of Dick Smith.</p> <p> “There are two clear scenarios for Woolworths, sale or internal restructure, and each should trigger an easing of tactical pricing,” he said.</p> <p> “Dick Smith will either: 1) be sold to a new and committed owner with intentions and funding to support the business medium term, or 2) be retained by Woolworths to be downscaled or closed, which ultimately achieves what Harvey Norman is aiming for. Either way, resolution should arrive before Woolworths’ full-year result in August.</p> <p> “In the scenario that Dick Smith is retained by Woolworths (downscaled or closed) it will likely bring more protracted margin pressure and therefore downside risk to our new FY13 forecasts. From a positive perspective, this will again be temporary and ultimately benefit the market share of JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman.</p> <p> “In our view, 2H12 should be a low point for earnings. As irrational discounting eases and with pending new product releases in the TV category specifically, earnings momentum should recover soon. A series of interest rate cuts would also be beneficial.”</p> <p> In the trading update released to the ASX last Friday, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Your-loss-is-our-gain-JB-eyes-WOW--Dick-Smith-market-share/VRALRAGCTN.html" target="_blank">JB Hi-Fi signalled that it was eyeing off market share</a> previously held by Dick Smith and WOW Sight & Sound, going so far as placing dollar figures on the worth of these sections of the market. Terry Smart said the closure of competitors’ stores represented a “good opportunity” for JB to get ahead in the long run.</p> Mon, 30 Apr 2012 11:41:49 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Product-recalls-Nikon-battery--Futuretronics-USB-charger/TZJQMCUEHU.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Product-recalls-Nikon-battery--Futuretronics-USB-charger/TZJQMCUEHU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Nikon Australia has announced the recall of its EN-EL15 lithium ion camera battery, used in the Nikon 1 V1, Nikon D800, Nikon D800E and Nikon D7000 camera models.</p> <p> There is potential for the protective battery cap to melt and for the battery to overheat, deforming the camera body and posing a possible fire hazard.</p> <p> Faulty batteries can be identified by the batch numbers which have one of two sequences: 201XXXXXEXXXXXŒor 201XXXXXFXXXXX. These batteriesŒwere sold nationally at photographic and electrical retailers between 1 March and 15 April 2012.</p> <p> Affected consumers can organise for the return and replacement of faulty batteries by contacting Nikon Australia on 1800 810 259, or by email at <a href="mailto:recall@nikon.com.au">recall@nikon.com.au</a>, between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday (except public holidays).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="230" src="/image/Nikon Battery recall.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> The Nikon EN-EL15 lithium ion battery.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Futuretronics has issued a recall of the Futuretronics Travel Solution Universal USB Power Charge Kit which was sold at Australian Kmart stores, selected Harvey Norman and The Good Guys stores, David Jones, Brands Exclusive and on OO.com.au.</p> <p> The product is described by the ACCC as a “universal twin USB AC adaptor with international plug tops supplied with car adaptor and USB car charger”, identifiable by the model number FUT-1999 and the SAA approval number A/12238EA. The product was sold between 23 April 2010 and 20 February 2012.</p> <p> According to the ACCC, “When using the AC adaptor, if the interlock feature is not engaged to secure the plug top, the plug top could become detached from the main power supply, exposing live contacts”. These electric contacts can then give the user an electric shock.</p> <p> Consumers are advised to immediately stop using the charger and contact <a href="mailto:recall@futuretronics.com.au">recall@futuretronics.com.au</a> or phone 03 9914 2299 to arrange for a free replacement product.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="142" src="/image/Futuretronics Charger Recall.bmp" width="300" /></p> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:56:15 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Sony-appoints-new-social-media-manager-to-lead-band-of-brand-fans/MGODQVFQXT.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Sony-appoints-new-social-media-manager-to-lead-band-of-brand-fans/MGODQVFQXT.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Sony Australia has announced the appointment of a man affectionately known as “Mr Sony” as the company’s first Community Manager, responsible for expanding the company’s presence in social media.</p> <p> Jamie Wong, who has worked at Sony Australia for ten years in a variety of customer service, sales and product marketing roles, will also be charged with bringing new fans in touch with the Sony brand through the company’s dedicated customer advocate group, Sony X.</p> <p> “Often referred to within the company as ‘Mr Sony’, Jamie’s passion for the Sony brand and products is infectious,” said Sony Australia’s brand, community and PR manager, Kelly Ehrlich. “He was our first choice for this new role, with an ability to set the tone for Sony across multiple social media platforms and to create real connections with Sony fans.</p> <p> “Having recently hit the 100,000 fan milestone on Facebook, we’re already seeing the brand advocacy effects of delivering unique, engaging activities in this growing area of marketing.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Through membership with Sony X, dedicated followers of everything Sony have “the opportunity to trial Sony products, experience money-can’t-buy brand and product opportunities in Australia and overseas, and express their opinions to help shape the future of Sony”.</p> <p> Applications to be part of the group have opened, with the company calling on “those who love any kind of technology or digital entertainment” <a href="https://www.smap.ap.sony.com/survey/se.ashx?s=15795BB21F8FE57D" target="_blank">to apply</a>, with access to benefits such as special offers and competitions available to successful applicants.</p> <p> Speaking about his new appointment and the opportunity to lead a band of Sony believers, Wong said he was “excited by the potential" of the fan group.</p> <p> “I have experienced firsthand just how passionate this team is about Sony and our products, and I really love the idea that we’re going to offer more Australians the chance to take part in this unique project,” he said. “Giving them the best of the whole Sony group – electronics, mobile, movies, music and games – we can really bring to life the Sony promise of imagination made real.</p> <p> “Not only are Sony’s products being used every day by Australians to access social media platforms but they’re using these platforms to talk about Sony.</p> <p> “My aim is to help Sony create best-in-class social media campaigns, profiles and activities, not only here in Australia but working with Sony companies around the world to bring global opportunities to life.”</p> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:51:58 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Free-Picture-Taking-Help-at-the-Digital-Show/PXVGCZOWJB.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Free-Picture-Taking-Help-at-the-Digital-Show/PXVGCZOWJB.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="" height="150" src="/image/PMA jpeg.jpg" width="180" /></p> <p> Œ</p> <p> Major photographic brands will give the inaugural The Digital Show a new look when it opens May 25-27th at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.Œ According to the organisers, the Imaging & Digital Entertainment Association, many famous brands at the show will be moving beyond the normal expo massive display of the latest cameras and gizmos to shift their focus onto the task of helping show visitors get add more fun and introduce greater creativity when taking photos. The program has been backed by such famous brands as Canon, Nikon, Epson, Fujifilm, Olympus, Pentax, Hasselblad and Ricoh. Totally free and comprehensive training on the show floor will help visitors elevate their picture taking to the next level. Even the show entry fee of $20 has been waived for those who pre-register at www.thedigitalshow.com.au website, or visit major retailers such as Camera House, Digital Camera Warehouse, Harvey Norman, Michaels and Teds for a free entry pass. The move is a bid by the industry to move away from the concept of just selling technical gizmos to showing their customers how, with a few simple tips, the new technology can be used to improve their photography and find fun new ways of using pictures. The show talks will cover everything from taking better pictures, printing them for home decor and sharing photos on the net, tablets, e-books and smart TVs. Says IDEA’s designate CEO, Kathryn Singson, “We believe technology is at its best when it’s about self-expression and connection, not just bits and bytes.Œ We want to help people make the most of their digital life style”. The Digital Show is the largest of its type in the Southern Hemisphere and is expected to attract in excess ofŒ 20,000 visitors. More than 100 brands will be on display covering everything from camera-carrying model helicopters that can fly over crowds to get that special picture, or macro lenses that create a work of art out of the hairs on a bee’s knees. And for those that want to check out their camera skills in comparison to others, a giant photo gallery with more than 1000 pictures will show the talents of both top professional and amateur photographers. The photo gallery will also showcase the Nikon Press Photographer of the Year Awards, pictures supplied by local camera clubs and the work of photography students. To find out just how the judging of a photo contest works, show visitors will be able to see in progress the judging of the Canon quest to find The Australian Photographer of the Year.ŒŒ The judges make public comments as they award their points and the winner will be announced at the conclusion of the show With long established roots in the photo imaging industry, this year’s The Digital Show will expand its educational program to include digital entertainment and the idea of convergence. The event will also mark the Australian debut of Pixar’s latest original Oscar nominated short film, La Luna.Œ Pixar Animation Studios is an Academy Award winning computer animation studio with the technical, creative and production capabilities to create a new generation of animated feature films, such as Finding Nemo and Toy Story.Œ At The Digital Show, Pixar film maker AJ Rieble will speak on storytelling. Also speaking is future technology guru Mike Walsh and Microsoft’s David Mclean will speak on the subject of convergent lifestyle. Top Australian and overseas photographers will also be on hand to share their tips and secrets, both to fellow professional photographers on the business day, which is open to all retailers, business and students on the Friday and to enthusiasts who are welcome over the weekend. Full information is available at <a href="http://www.thedigitalshow.com.au" target="_blank">www.thedigitalshow.com.au</a> and the twenty dollar entry fee can be avoided by visiting a photo shop for a free pass or by downloading one from the website. Œ</p> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:48:10 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Canstar-Blue-responds-to-coffee-machine-survey-validity-questions/JNRRMZXPWV.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Canstar-Blue-responds-to-coffee-machine-survey-validity-questions/JNRRMZXPWV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Canstar Blue has this morning responded to questions as to its validity, raised in a <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Nespresso-tops-satisfaction-survey-questions-raised-over-validity/WOEKATTNRH.html" target="_blank">story posted on this website yesterday</a>.</p> <p> "The winning brands of Canstar Blue Customer Satisfaction Awards are determined by respected market researchers Colmar Brunton who undertake national consumer research on our behalf which spans across every state and region of Australia and each key population demographic. Colmar Brunton is Australia’s largest independently owned Australian market research agency.</p> <p> "Canstar Blue commissions Colmar Brunton to survey 2,500 Australian consumers across a range of categories every few months to measure and track customer satisfaction and the results reported are from the results from the 647 coffee machine customers within the survey group who had purchased a coffee machine in the last three years. The sample size of 2,500 is broadly representative of the Australian population according to ABS data and is based on location, age groups and gender.</p> <p> "Brands must receive at least 30 responses to be included.</p> <p> "Canstar Blue is an independent consumer ratings agency with no affiliation with any of the brands we rate."</p> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:37:37 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/JB-Hi-Fi-projects-drop-in-annual-profits-despite-steady-sales/JGCMBMSTTG.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/JB-Hi-Fi-projects-drop-in-annual-profits-despite-steady-sales/JGCMBMSTTG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi has today announced that it expects its annual sales results for the 2011-12 financial year will be in line with forecasts, predicting sales of $3.1 billion for the year following a strong January-March quarter.</p> <p> According to a Trading Update released by the company today, sales for the three months were up 8.8 per cent (7.5 per cent including Clive Anthonys stores), while comparable store sales were -1.3 per cent, up from -2.2 per cent at the half-year mark in December.</p> <p> The expected $3.1 billion sales result will be a slight increase on 2011 when the company reported annual normalised sales of $2.96 billion.</p> <p> However, the company has also issued a profit guidance of $100 to $105 million after tax, which is down on last year. In 2011, JB announced statutory net profits after tax of $109.7 million (or $134.4 million when the company’s one-off Clive Anthonys restructuring charge was excluded). Once again, the 2011 figures were below the previous year's, when statutory profits for FY2010 were $118.7 million after tax.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Despite this, JB Hi-Fi CEO, Terry Smart, said the projected results are strong considering the tight retail market.</p> <p> “The market remains very competitive but, with our core everyday low price (EDLP) message central to our customer proposition, we have maintained our market leading position,” said Smart. “We anticipate that this level of discounting will continue over the next quarter but we do not believe that this is a long term structural change.</p> <p> “While the impact on our earnings is clear, as a market leader with an everyday low price proposition, JB Hi-Fi will react aggressively to maintain our market leadership.</p> <p> “Our low cost of doing business is one of our core competitive advantages and enables us to operate at healthy profit margins notwithstanding competitor activity. This is driven by high sales per square metre and an obsession with not letting waste and inefficiency creep into our cost structure.</p> <p> “Over the March quarter we improved our cost of doing business percentage over the same period last year.”</p> <p> One incredibly strong area for JB Hi-Fi was online, with the company reporting a 76 per cent increase in sales on the prior period to 31 March 2012, and an average of 965,000 unique website visitors per week. The company also reported that its digital streaming music service, JB NOW, “continues to gain traction” following the launch of dedicated mobile apps for the service this month.</p> <p> “We believe the combination of online and digital delivery will provide the most compelling out of store experience to match the success of our in-store program,” said Smart. “The continued success of our recently opened stores combined with our growth online and expansion into digital services will see us continue to grow into the future.”</p> <p> Other news from JB Hi-Fi's Trading Update: <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Your-loss-is-our-gain-JB-eyes-WOW--Dick-Smith-market-share/VRALRAGCTN.html" target="_blank">Your loss is our gain:ŒJB eyes WOW & Dick Smith market share</a></p> <p> UPDATE: </p> <p> Since releasing today's Trading Update, JB Hi-Fi's share price has taken a dive, falling to a three-year low of just over $10 per share.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="237" src="/image/JB HiFi Share slump.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> JB Hi-Fi's share price is the lowest it has been in more than 3 years.</p> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:12:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Your-loss-is-our-gain-JB-eyes-WOW--Dick-Smith-market-share/VRALRAGCTN.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/Your-loss-is-our-gain-JB-eyes-WOW--Dick-Smith-market-share/VRALRAGCTN.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> While WOW Sight & Sound has gone into administration and Dick Smith is closing stores across the country, JB Hi-Fi is planning to capitalise on this “industry consolidation” by expanding its market share, according to an announcement made by the company today.</p> <p> In its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/27/article/JB-projects-annual-results-with-steady-sales-and-slight-profit-drop/JGCMBMSTTG.html" target="_blank">Trading Update issued to the Australian Securities Exchange today</a>, the retailer outlined its sales results and earnings expectations, and foregrounded areas for potential expansion into the future.</p> <p> “FY12 year to date has been a challenging year for the company with the softer consumer environment resulting in challenging comparable store sales,” said JB Hi-Fi CEO, Terry Smart. “However, as a testament to our model, our stores remain highly profitable.</p> <p> “We are seeing some competitors exiting the market or reducing their store numbers,” he added. “While this has put additional short-term pressure on both sales and gross margin we believe that it will lead to a good opportunity for JB Hi-Fi to expand and increase its market share in FY13 and beyond.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> JB Hi-Fi is currently negotiating leases on two former WOW sites, claiming that the closure of the 15-store network (with reported sales of approximately $250 million) “represents a good opportunity for the company to capture this market share in Queensland and Northern Territory markets”.</p> <p> JB is also keeping an eye on Dick Smith, which pulls in roughly $1.5 billion in annual sales and is set to close 100 stores by February 2014.</p> <p> “This consolidation, whilst impacting on gross margin in the short term, is yet to be reflected in the company’s sales to a positive degree, but presents the company with a good opportunity to continue to grow its market share in the medium to longer term.”</p> <p> In terms of its own footprint, the company is expecting to open 2 new stores in May and 4 in June, in order to reach its target of 16 new stores in the 2012 financial year. JB Hi-Fi has also closed two Clive Anthonys Queensland stores in Capalaba and Kedron.</p> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:33:23 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Nespresso-tops-satisfaction-survey-questions-raised-over-validity/WOEKATTNRH.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Nespresso-tops-satisfaction-survey-questions-raised-over-validity/WOEKATTNRH.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Nespresso has pipped its local machine partner De’Longhi to take top spot in Canstar Blue’s survey of coffee machine satisfaction. Sunbeam also performed well in this survey, which asked consumers for their opinions on machines post-purchase.</p> <p> There were 650 respondents to the survey, which asked questions regarding value for money, reliability, ease of use and cleaning, design and the quality of the coffee produced.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Nespresso scored best across the board, picking up 5-star ratings in every category. De’Longhi and Sunbeam both scored 4-star ratings overall, while Breville and Philips Saeco score three stars.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="151" src="/image/13C10AC1-CFF5-48A6-942B-13D0DBC1FAFF.png" width="755" /></p> <p> The full results of Canstar Blue's survey.</p> <p> “Nespresso has done the work to remain the Australian consumer’s favourite this year in an increasingly dynamic and competitive coffee machine market,” said Canstar Blue manager Rebecca Logan. “Nespresso has maintained its focus on quality, innovation and personalised service and in this case it has paid off.”</p> <p> While Nespresso will be pleased with this result, the other companies surveyed can rightfully point to the small sample size of this survey. As reported in Appliance Retailer magazine’s November 2011 issue, almost 420,000 coffee machines were sold in the 12 months to August 2011, meaning this survey represented just one-tenth of 1 per cent of all machines sold.</p> <p> Furthermore, a number of leading brands in coffee machines were not included. These suppliers included Bosch, Jura, Map, Ilve, Miele andŒSmeg.</p> <p> Current.com.au has contacted Canstar Blue to ask them about the statistical merit of such small sample sizes.</p> Thu, 26 Apr 2012 15:11:13 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Cashbacks-beginnen-zu-Hause-fur-Nespresso/EOFXFELMON.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Cashbacks-beginnen-zu-Hause-fur-Nespresso/EOFXFELMON.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Das UnderCürrent was best pleased earlier this week to see that Nespresso is a big lover of cashbacks for Mother's Day the world over. In its native Switzerland, even the amount is the same, with consumers receiving CF 50 (Swiss Francs) back on the Pixie Machine at department stores in Zürich.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/photo (2)(1).JPG" width="400" /></p> <p> And for all the Mother's Day promotions closer to home, including Nespresso Australia, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/UPDATED-All-the-Mothers-Day-promotions-all-in-one-place/DGYGDBTYHO.html" target="_blank">check out this complete guide</a>.</p> Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:00:35 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Toshiba-joins-recycling-revolution-partners-with-ANZRP/DALEXGSUIG.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Toshiba-joins-recycling-revolution-partners-with-ANZRP/DALEXGSUIG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Toshiba Australia has joined the likes of <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/HP-partners-with-Australia-and-New-Zealand-Recycling-Platform/HILEQDHENP.html" target="_blank">Hewlett Packard</a> and <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Panasonic-joins-ANZRP-industry-recycling-program-for-TVs-MD-joins-board/SAVVZLBNHA.html" target="_blank">Panasonic</a>Œin partnering with the Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform (ANZRP) for the recycling and collection of e-waste.</p> <p> Toshiba will work with ANZRP to meet recycling targets set by the Federal Government in its National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme. As part of the partnership, ANZRP will be offering free e-waste drop-off services for households and small businesses.</p> <p> Speaking about the partnership, ANZRP general manager Carmel Dollisson said she was "delighted" by Toshiba’s involvement in the program.</p> <p> “As an interim board member, Toshiba has been an integral part of ANZRP since its initial formation and joins other major IT and TV brands we have announced throughout the past few weeks,” said Dollisson. “ANZRP now has significant momentum and we expect to announce more members in the very near future.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The managing director of Toshiba Australia, Mark Whittard, was similarly positive about theŒdecision to sign up with ANZRP.</p> <p> “Toshiba, together with other major brands, has invested a number of years to achieve this outstanding combined industry-led program under the umbrella of ANZRP,” said Whittard.</p> <p> “As a transparent member-based and driven organisation, ANZRP is the collective commitment of these industry-leading brands to achieve a permanent solution to Australia’s e-waste challenge and Toshiba sees this as a tremendously important step forward for the community, the country and the environment.</p> <p> “Driven by robust environmental criteria, ANZRP replicates a leading model informed by many years of practical experience from overseas including Europe, Japan, Canada and the US,” he added.Œ “We have chosen to focus on this community-friendly recycling service as it not only meets our liability under the Product Stewardship Act 2011, it also continues to support Toshiba’s leadership in environmental management.”</p> Thu, 26 Apr 2012 12:54:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Canon-appoints-new-assistant-GM-of-sales-for-consumer-business/LYSRWIIOXO.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Canon-appoints-new-assistant-GM-of-sales-for-consumer-business/LYSRWIIOXO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Canon Australia has announced a new addition to its sales team with the appointment of Troy Cabot to the newly-created role of assistant general manager – sales, Canon Consumer Imaging.</p> <p> Cabot will report directly to the director of Canon Consumer Imaging, Jason McLean, and will be responsible for retail and distribution channels. He takes on the position following his most recent role as national business manager for Canon’s retail accounts.</p> <p> Prior to this, Cabot held a variety of management positions in Canon Australia’s consumer imaging sales division since joining the company in 2007, including roles as state field manager and national account manager.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Speaking about Cabot’s appointment, Jason McLean said he would make a solid contribution to the Canon sales team.</p> <p> “I am very excited to welcome Troy to my leadership team and look forward to the new ideas that he will bring for the benefit of Canon and our key customers,” said McLean.</p> <p> “This promotion is in recognition of Troy’s consistent success in his current role, his passion and commitment to our business and his record of developing strong partnerships for mutual success at each stage in his career.</p> <p> “As an industry leader, Canon Australia aims to be an employer of choice offering clear scope for career path planning, skills acquisition and development, and merit-based promotions,” he added. “It’s very rewarding to see these principles alive and working to great effect in our organisation through appointments such as Troy’s.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Canon_Troy_Cabot_portrait.jpg" width="200" /></p> <p> Troy Cabot, the new assistant general manager – sales, at Canon Consumer Imaging.</p> Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:27:57 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Bravia-bravado-Sonys-new-HX850-TV-is-the-one-to-beat-in-2012/ODAYMUGARL.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/26/article/Bravia-bravado-Sonys-new-HX850-TV-is-the-one-to-beat-in-2012/ODAYMUGARL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Following on from two ritzy TV product launches by Samsung and LG last week, Sony has announced that the newest addition to its Bravia LED LCD TV range will be the “TV to beat in 2012”. According to the managing director of Sony Australia, Carl Rose, Sony’s new high-end Bravia HX850 “is the best TV on the market.</p> <p> “We’ve done our research and we know that while the advent of Smart TV is changing the way we watch TV, the number one consideration when choosing a TV to buy is still outstanding picture quality – something we will never compromise on.</p> <p> “Sony delivers our best picture quality ever with the Bravia HX850, while ensuring Smart TV content and connectivity to multiple devices rounds out this top-of-the-range package,” he said.</p> <p> That connectivity includes built-in Wi-Fi and DLNA compatibility, which allows users to share content between the HX850 and DLNA-enabled devices such as tablets and smartphones, and to use their mobile device as “an intelligent remote control”. In addition, by downloading the Sony Media Remote App, users can transform their smartphone into a second screen for the TV in orderŒto view additional information, such as details on YouTube videos.</p> <p> In terms of the picture quality that Rose was praising, the HX850 offers HD 1080p picture quality with Dynamic Edge LED backlighting, and Motionflow XR 800 technology that reduces image blur. It also features an X-Reality Pro processing chip that adjusts picture quality on the TV to suit the program on the screen.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The HX850 will be available in mid May in both 46-inch and 55-inch screen sizes, and joins the existing HX750 models (32-inch, 40-inch, 46-inch and 55-inch) in the range. The new EX Series of televisions – which includes the 40- and 46-inch EX650 models and the 26-inch EX550 model – will be added to the range in mid May and June respectively.</p> <p> Sony will also be launching new 3D glasses to complement the range. Made from titanium, the TDG-BR750 glasses will be available in May for RRP $179, and will be backwards compatible with older Bravia 3D TVs.</p> <p> “We’ve made selecting a TV as simple as possible by streamlining our range to nine models,” said Nicolas Barendson, Sony Australia’s general manager of marketing. “Our TVs are made by entertainment lovers, for entertainment lovers.</p> <p> “Our focus is on delivering a premium, top-quality entertainment experience, no matter the content – whether you’re watching 3D, internet video or regular programming.</p> <p> “Using our TVs is simple as well,” he added. “We’ve made accessing all of our ‘Smart TV’ features like catch-up TV, Music Unlimited and Video Unlimited as easy as the press of one button on your remote.</p> <p> “We have a wide variety of content available for our connected Bravia TVs today, and will continue to add more significant channels, apps and partnerships in the future – providing increasing value to the Bravia owner.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="212" src="/image/Sony Bravia HX850_Barendson Rose.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Sony general manager of marketing, Nicolas Barendson (left) and MD Carl Rose with the new Bravia HX850.</p> Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:18:55 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/24/article/Full-steam-ahead-Electrolux-talks-up-its-new-coffee-venture/AHURNDZMNV.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/24/article/Full-steam-ahead-Electrolux-talks-up-its-new-coffee-venture/AHURNDZMNV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Last week, Electrolux <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/20/article/Exclusive-Electrolux-expands-smalls-offering--enters-coffee-category/ASYBUAHYZI" target="_blank">exclusively announced to Current</a> that it would be expanding its small appliance offering, beginning with a new capsule coffee machine produced in partnership with Lavazza, known as Lavazza A Modo Mio by Electrolux.</p> <p> Following the announcement, Current spoke with the managing director of Electrolux Small Appliances, John Mahar, about the company’s move into small domestic appliances, and the thinking behind the new capule machine.</p> <p> “The capsule coffee machine or espresso machine market is large, and it’s fast-growing,” said Mahar. "Certainly some of the latest stats I’ve seen suggest it’s the largest now both in volume and value in the total coffee market.</p> <p> “And it’s been said that it’s certainly still very much in its infancy, so I think the growth potential is quite enormous for retail and the suppliers in that business.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> While the capsule market is certainly booming, there is one name that looms large over the whole category – Nespresso. Mahar conceded there were other brands in the marketplace that were holding a dominant position, but that the market was far from flooded, and that Electrolux would be a strong competitor.</p> <p> “That doesn’t concern us at this stage,” he said. “We have what we have and we know where we’re going with it, and we’re full steam ahead. We certainly believe we’re going to take share, and our retailer partners want us to as well.</p> <p> “I think at the end of the day what we’re bringing to the category is two key things: number one, we’re bringing the passion and expertise of espresso from one of the world’s biggest roasters and biggest coffee brands, which is Lavazza. And on our side of the equation, we’re bringing not just our design and technology expertise, but also our consumer insights processed into it as well.</p> <p> “The combination is a partnership, and already we’ve seen the birth of the new coffee machines that we are now delivering to the trade. So I think we’re certainly bringing a reason to be in the business, and something that is certainly appealing not just to the trade partners, but also to the consumers as well.”</p> <p> At the end of the day, Mahar believes that the elegance and simplicity of Electrolux’s new machine will win favour with retailers and consumers alike.</p> <p> “It’s the cafe experience that you have at home with the push of a button,” he said. “Our machine has a really nice, compact design with a small footprint. It is intuitively easy to use and is a good design that fits into today’s contemporary homes and kitchens.</p> <p> “And again, with our design and technology expertise coupled with Lavazza’s expertise in espresso, we’ve got what I think is a very compelling offer to consumers.”</p> Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:41:01 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/24/article/Wesfarmers-sees-modest-sales-growth-despite-Targets-slip/ERCCCPQSLU.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/24/article/Wesfarmers-sees-modest-sales-growth-despite-Targets-slip/ERCCCPQSLU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Wesfarmers – the parent company of Bunnings, Officeworks, Target, Kmart and Coles – announced its third quarter retail sales results today, reporting modest growth in all its main businesses, aside from Target.</p> <p> Compared to third quarter sales figures from 2011, the company’s Home Improvement sector was up 4.3 per cent to $1.74 billion, the Office Supplies business was up 2.5 per cent to $415 million, Kmart was up 1.2 per cent to $813 million, and Target sales were down 4.4 per cent from $724 million to $692 million.</p> <p> Wesfarmers managing director, Richard Goyder, said he was happy with the company’s overall results, especially considering the tight retail market in Australia. He also noted that the entertainment category was one of the main contributing factors towards Target’s poor performance.</p> <p> “Target’s sales during the quarter continued to be negatively affected by tough trading conditions, particularly in entertainment categories,” said Goyder.</p> <p> “Sales growth was also negatively affected by a comparatively lower level of clearance activity, following good stock management in the previous quarter, and a focus on improving the promotional program. These changes have resulted in notable margin improvement.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Mr Goyder also provided background of Wesfarmers’ other key businesses.</p> <p> “Bunnings’ store sales increased 4.7 per cent in the quarter with sales growth achieved in both consumer and commercial areas,” he said. “The result reflects a continued positive response from customers to improvements in the offer as well as strong growth in the store network.</p> <p> According to Goyder, Officeworks' growth was “underpinned by growing customer numbers and a pleasing performance during the important back-to-school and back-to-work periods,” while Kmart sales increased “as customers continued to respond favourably to the investment in lowering prices on everyday items, as evidenced by another quarter of growth in customer numbers and units sold".</p> <p> At 31 March 2012, the company had a total of 294 Bunnings stores (including warehouses, trade centres and smaller format stores), 138 Officeworks stores, 2 Harris Technology stores, 301 Target and Target Country stores, and 186 Kmart stores (not including Kmart Tyre & Auto shopfronts).</p> Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:38:12 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/24/article/Samsungs-stellar-treasure-hunt-solved-The-New-Galaxy-S-III/HJIGJUKBMI.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/24/article/Samsungs-stellar-treasure-hunt-solved-The-New-Galaxy-S-III/HJIGJUKBMI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Gone are the days of announcing a new product with a TV advertisement or an in-store appearance. Ever the teaser, Samsung has unveiled the details of what is rumoured to be the new Galaxy S III smartphone with an online treasure hunt of intergalactic proportions.</p> <p> It all began with a short teaser video that went online overnight:</p> <p> </p> <p> At the end of the video, viewers are directed to a <a href="http://www.tgeltaayehxnx.com/" target="_blank">seemingly bizarre web address</a> to solve a word-scramble puzzle.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="241" src="/image/Samsung Galaxy puzzle.bmp" width="350" /></p> <p> Hint, the answer is most likely 2 parts tantalising and 3 parts marketing jargon.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="241" src="/image/Galaxy solved puzzle.bmp" width="350" /></p> <p> Once the puzzle is solved, amateur sleuths are then sent to another website (with a <a href="http://www.thenextgalaxy.com/" target="_blank">more obvious URL this time</a>) where they are given details of the launch and treated to a longer video.</p> <p> According to Samsung, the Galaxy SIII is set to be launched on 3 May in London, at 7pm.</p> <p> “Join Samsung Mobile at Unpacked 2012, where the dawn of the next GALAXY will soon be revealed before the world,” the website says. “Don't want to miss out on this momentous event? Register today to ensure that you'll be there to witness it all, live and direct from London.”</p> <p> On the day of the actual event, those who are not lucky enough to get a free trip to London will be able to view the launch at the dedicated Samsung Mobile microsite, <a href="http://www.TheNextGalaxy.com">www.TheNextGalaxy.com</a>.</p> <p> In the meantime, you can watch the longer teaser video here:</p> <p> </p> <p> Those who are familiar with Will Smith’s body of work will note a startling similarity with the end of Men in Black. Perhaps the launch will not be in London after all – this reporter is placing bets that the Galaxy will be on Orion’s Belt.</p> <p> </p> Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:51:11 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/24/article/Important-ANZAC-Day-retail-trading-information/ZWSGIQEDND.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/24/article/Important-ANZAC-Day-retail-trading-information/ZWSGIQEDND.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Wednesday 25 April 2012 is ANZAC Day, a public holiday throughout Australia to commemorate the disastrous World War I military campaign in the Dardanelles in 1915.</p> <p> Retail trading is restricted throughout Australia, as per the following:</p> <p> New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria:</p> <p> All non-exempt shops must be closed until 1pm on ANZAC Day. The exemption rules in the three states vary, but essentially all retailers in the appliance and electronics industries are not exempt.</p> <p> South Australia:</p> <p> The rules vary depending on whether your retail outlet is a defined tourist district, though essentially all stores must remain closed until 12pm on ANZAC Day.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Tasmania:</p> <p> Congratulations to the Island State for having the most complicated exemption laws! Any store not meeting these exemptions must remain closed until 12:30pm. The fine for not complying in $26,000.</p> <p> Western Australia:</p> <p> Nice and easy: no stores may open at all on ANZAC Day. Of course, it’s not that easy, with small retail shops not selling motor vehicles, owned by up to six people, who between them own three or fewer stores, employing up to 18 people, may open at any time they wish.</p> <p> Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory:</p> <p> No laws enforce restricted trading though it is commonplace for retail outlets to remain closed during the morning.</p> <p> ANZAC Day now hosts three annual football matches, with electronics stores able to showcase these matches on their big screen TVs in store. The matches are:</p> <p> Collingwood v Essendon (AFL) – 2:40pm (AEST) St George Illawarra v Sydney Roosters (NRL) – 4:00pm (AEST) Melbourne Storm v New Zealand Warriors (NRL) – 7:00pm (AEST)</p> <p> The AFL match is live on Channel 7 and affiliates, while the two NRL matches are live on Fox Sports.</p> <p> Patrick’s Tips:</p> <p> Essendon by 1 point St George Illawarra by 25 points New Zealand Warriors by 2 points</p> Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:48:09 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/San-Si-road-testing-the-new-Nikon-Coolpix-510/DCEWWFXEPT.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/San-Si-road-testing-the-new-Nikon-Coolpix-510/DCEWWFXEPT.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Comments by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> While in Milan for EuroCucina 2012, Current.com.au has been road testing the brand new <a href="http://www.nikon.com.au/en_AU/product_details.page?DCRPath=templatedata/en_AU/saleable_product_information/data/Digital%20Compact%20Cameras/Performance/COOLPIX%20P510.xml&CategoryID=gp11zkmo" target="_blank">Nikon Coolpix P510</a>. With the show wrapped up for another year, we took the camera out to the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, part of the San Siro sporting precinct, to check out how this camera performs in a Serie A Class environment.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/02Nikon.jpg" width="461" /></p> <p> Here is broad shot of the stadium taken at zero zoom. All the photos shown on this page were taken from this position, including the shot above.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/03Nikon.jpg" width="461" /></p> <p> The players ready for action. Milan started very short favourites with the camel coats, so when Bologna took the lead, the Ultras were particularly hostile.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/06Nikon.jpg" width="461" /></p> <p> According to Wikipedia, Milan's Ultras have traditionally been left-wing, a view challenged by club owner Silvio Berlusconi's prime ministership of Italy.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/01Nikon.jpg" width="461" /></p> <p> Here are four Milan players remonstrating with the referee - this shot was taken from around 200 metres away, up in the nosebleeds.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/04Nikon.jpg" width="461" /></p> <p> To test out the full capabilities of the 42x optical zoom, I took this photo at 0x zoom. Take note of the two white squares just above the centre of this image.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/05Nikon.jpg" width="461" /></p> <p> Turns out those squares were formed by banners hanging across poles - a here is a nice 42x reminder of where we were.</p> <p> Finally, to test out the Full HD video recording on the P510,ŒI filmed this moment of play from first half - and around 200 metres away:</p> <p> </p> Mon, 23 Apr 2012 23:21:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/UPDATED-A-journey-through-time-saving-appliances/RLNZEJFDST.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/UPDATED-A-journey-through-time-saving-appliances/RLNZEJFDST.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly Here at Undercurrent, we love appliances.</p> <p> But if there’s anything we love more than appliances, it’s the kind of retro appliances that make you wonder what life was like back in the day before pyrolytic ovens, smart fridges, ionic hairdryer technology and dishwasher safe plastic.</p> <p> Undercurrent had the good fortune to come across a treasure trove of antique appliances when doing some sleuthing into the topic recently. Here’s our top four picks in the category of, “Wow - the 80s called and they want their time-saving electrical goods back!”</p> <p> 4. Breville</p> <p> <img alt="" height="356" src="/image/Breville Salon Styler.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Why go down to the salon to gossip with the ladies when you can get your hair set in the privacy of your own home? With this Breville contraption, keeping up the Joneses has never looked so fashionable! *Twin set not included.</p> <p> 3. Sunbeam</p> <p> <img alt="" height="509" src="/image/Sunbeam Retro Blender.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> To be fair, this Sunbeam blender actually looks like it has quite a lot of functions on it. But the company has certainly upgraded the aesthetic of its small kitchen appliances...for the better.</p> <p> 2. Pioneer</p> <p> <img alt="" height="563" src="/image/Pioneer Disco Robo.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> If your old man is too square to let you go down to the discotheque, never fear. With Pioneer’s fantastic “Disco Robo” you can create your own party at home! Now with the super-specific benefits that only 109 decibels of sound can bring. I can't wait to play some Spandau Ballet!</p> <p> 1. Hotpoint</p> <p> <img alt="" height="511" src="/image/Hotpoint Vertical Grill.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Considering the recent bad news about Hotpoint going into administration, we had a touch of nostalgia with this one - the Hotpoint Vertical Grill. Thanks to reader Paul who wrote in to tell us that this was not actually a extravagantly-named toaster, but rather a forerunner to the kind of grills produced now in the George Foreman range.</p> <p> "You put in sausages, steaks, or maybe burgers, and they would grill with all the fat dripping off the meat onto a drip tray underneath, which was then removed for cleaning," said Paul.Œ"I should know, we have one and use it every now and then. It was originally a wedding present for my partners parents back in the early 1960's, and it still looks as good as new. We also have a 1930's chrome waffle maker that still works brilliantly, and is also used on the odd occassion for a Sunday Brunch."</p> <p> Paul may just win the prize for best retro appliance collection.</p> <p> Do you have a great appliance that you think we need to see? Leave a comment below, or send us an email at <a href="mailto:info@current.com.au">info@current.com.au</a></p> Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:55:29 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/Exclusive-Insight-into-Big-Ws-new-store-layout-and-CE-strategy/LCQQNZAZFS.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/Exclusive-Insight-into-Big-Ws-new-store-layout-and-CE-strategy/LCQQNZAZFS.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> When Big W opened the doors on its new store in Canberra last month, the brand took the opportunity to showcase a new store format to consumers. Known in planning stages as the Mark 9 store format, Big W director Julie Coates billed it as the “newest iteration” of Big W’s footprint.</p> <p> Coates spoke exclusively to Current.com.au about the changes Big W has made, the new layout and what it would bring to consumers.</p> <p> “We used to have a permanent wall in the middle of the store, but these walls are all flexible, so the store space is much more flexible. We’ve really opened up the store. The other thing is we’ve taken the fitting room out of the centre of the store and put it in the corner of the store, so it’s really opened it up, and you get that feel when you come into the store that it somehow just feels like it’s all open.</p> <p> “The other thing is the blues around the store are much softer, much more female blues more in line with our customer. Where we’ve been before is that very dark navy, so we’ve really lifted it up.”</p> <p> “We’ve put a real value statement on wall near the entrance – we’ve really made that a bulk merchandising, key price-point offer. So when people come into Big W and ask what Big W is all about, it’s about value. That’s really important.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The focus on value can be found throughout the store, including in the consumer electronics department, where extra space has been made for fast-moving accessories like headphones and mobile phone covers.</p> <p> “We really specialise in the accessories business,” said Coates. “We have a fantastic attachment rate on iPods and iPads, we sell a lot of headphones and we have a really good iTunes business. So we really are more in the accessories business than in just the hardware of consumer electronics. And you can see the space we give to it.</p> <p> “People know that for accessories, we are the best price in the market.</p> <p> “We’ve also changed the space we allocate to TVs and we’ve changed the way you buy them as a customer," added Coates, describing the revised layout in the CE department.ŒŒSo as a customer you can look at this key price-point wall – from $98 to $328 – and you can actually grab and go.</p> <p> “If you know what you want, you know what sized TV you want and what configuration you want, you can come and look at the TVs which we have out on display for you, and you don’t need any service."</p> <p> Speaking about the main changes that Big W’s average “mum with kids” customer would see in the new store format, Coates said, “She’s going to see is a fantastic range of accessories and a place where it is really easy to shop.” Œ</p> Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:30:54 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/Staying-in-the-loop-Jobla-job-alerts-offer-more-than-just-new-employment/HUTNZMPJBD.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/Staying-in-the-loop-Jobla-job-alerts-offer-more-than-just-new-employment/HUTNZMPJBD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> When there’s talk that the economy is slowing down or the retail industry is tight, it can be difficult to justify leaving your current employment situation to seek out work in greener pastures.</p> <p> According to one industry expert, hunting around for a better job isn’t always something to do when you are unemployed, and doesn’t necessarily require hours of trawling job websites.</p> <p> PaulŒHumberstone, general manager of recruitment services for Jobla (the niche job website created by The Intermedia Group, publisher of Current.com.au), said that job alerts are the ideal way to stay in touch with job opportunities, even if you don’t consider yourself an active job seeker.</p> <p> “Almost everyone is familiar with the concept of a job alert, where job seekers select criteria such as Classification, Work Type, Location, or Salary, and have jobs matching those criteria emailed directly to them,” said Humberstone.</p> <p> “The evolution of internet-enabled mobile devices has further enhanced the convenience and time saving benefits of this functionality. You can review your latest job matches anywhere that you can read your email, such as on your mobile phone on the bus on the way to and from work.</p> <p> “Most commonly, job alerts are associated with actively looking for a new job, and as such, aren’t utilised by those that don’t consider themselves active job seekers.</p> <p> “Truth be told, almost all of us are open to new opportunities, should the right one be presented. Creating a job alert means that you will never miss an opportunity when it arises, and if you’ll only consider moving for your dream job, you can be highly specific with your criteria when you create your alert.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Humberstone also noted that these sorts of alerts provide plenty of useful information for people who aren’t keeping an eye out for a new job.</p> <p> “Until your dream job arises, you can use your job alert to keep an eye on current salary rates and have more information to negotiate your next salary increase,” he said.</p> <p> “They can also be a useful tool for employers, enabling you to stay abreast of industry hiring trends, track demand for specific types of jobs, know the current market salary rates or to simply monitor your own job adverts.”</p> <p> Jobla has a range of job search tools, including searches specifically tailored for the <a href="http://www.jobla.com.au/advancedSearch.aspx?widgetSearch=1&keywords=consumer%20or%20mobile%20or%20phone%20or%20phones%20or%20media%20or%20entertainment%20or%20computer%20or%20appliance%20or%20appliances%20or%20electronic%20or%20electronics%20or%20electrical&professionID=8344&Switch=current" target="_blank">consumer electronics and appliance retail industry</a>. To create a dedicated job alert, <a href="http://www.jobla.com.au/SavedSearchForNonMember.aspx" target="_blank">click here</a>.</p> Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:35:58 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/Dick-Smith--Myer-get-a-mention-in-digital-radio-marketing-campaign/UYEUBJXIYT.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/Dick-Smith--Myer-get-a-mention-in-digital-radio-marketing-campaign/UYEUBJXIYT.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> In an effort to boost digital radio sales over the Mother’s Day trading period, Commercial Radio Australia (CRA) has announced it will be running a marketing campaign promoting the technology, drawing special attention to Dick Smith and Myer as two specific retailers with special offers on DAB+ products and related in-store support of the technology.</p> <p> The campaign will begin this week and will be on “high-rotation” on 42 commercial radio stations, broadcast in the 5 metropolitan markets that have access to digital radio – Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. It will also be backed up by retailer brochures, online brochures and social media activity.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “Dick Smith and Myer are being acknowledged specifically in the Mother’s Day ad campaign in recognition of extra levels of support and promotional activity of the digital radio category during this Mother’s Day retail cycle,” said Commercial Radio Australia CEO, Joan Warner.</p> <p> According to GfK data from January 2012, nearly 800,000 digital radios have been sold over the last two and a half years. Warner noted that the popularity of digital radio has continued to grow, and that partnering with retailers had the potential to boost this growth.</p> <p> “The 2011 Christmas and New Year digital radio sales period was the most successful since launch,” she said. “We hope our continued collaboration with retailers to promote digital radio to listeners will result in another positive spike in sales.”</p> <p> More information on the campaign can be found on the <a href="http://www.digitalradioplus.com.au/index.cfm?page_id=1053" target="_blank">CRA website</a>.</p> Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:09:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/Masters-sales-up-30-online-sales-coming-soon/JUJMXEXHKG.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/23/article/Masters-sales-up-30-online-sales-coming-soon/JUJMXEXHKG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Woolworths Limited released its third quarter sales results for the 13 weeks ended 1 April 2012 last week, reporting an increase in total group sales of 3.8 per cent, to just over $14 billion. While most of the company’s divisions saw modest improvements, Masters was once again the stand out of the group, posting a staggering 29.4 per cent increase in sales, from $163 million to $211 million, year-on-year.</p> <p> Big W saw modest sales growth of 1.4 per cent in the quarter, up to $931 million. Speaking about the figures, director of Big W Julie Coates said, “The continued growth in customer numbers and items sold were pleasing.</p> <p> “This is evidence of Big W’s strong value proposition – offering the lowest prices on the widest range of quality and branded merchandise every day,” she said.</p> <p> Dick Smith, which is classified as a “discontinued operation” under the sales report, saw a 1.7 per cent decrease in sales, from $301 million in 2011 to $296 million in 2012. The company provided no further commentary on the retailer’s performance, aside from straight sales results.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> However, it was a different story for Masters. Woolworths’ CEO of home improvement, Don Stallings, said he was pleased with the retailer's results, which encompassed sales from the its first ten stores, three of which were opened in the third quarter.</p> <p> “Trading in our new Masters stores continues to deliver positive results,” he said. “Feedback from customers is overwhelmingly positive and we are excited about our future pipeline of stores and the opportunity to make the Masters offer available to more Australians.”</p> <p> The company announced that it would be launching a “Masters Home Improvement transactional website” in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year, as part of Woolworths’ new “multi-option offer”.</p> <p> “The online component of our multi-option growth strategy continues to progress at pace and remains a key focus," the results report read.Œ"Our latest additions and enhancements include, the Supermarkets mobile shopping app, a virtual shopping wall, the Big W mobile app, click then collect trials and a new generation supermarket online platform.</p> <p> “These allow us to further tailor our product and service offerings to the individual needs of our customers, providing each with an enhanced shopping experience. They have contributed total online sales growth for the quarter of 108 per cent (or 45 per cent excluding Cellarmasters).”</p> Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:43:18 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/20/article/Exclusive-Electrolux-expands-smalls-offering--enters-coffee-category/ASYBUAHYZI.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/20/article/Exclusive-Electrolux-expands-smalls-offering--enters-coffee-category/ASYBUAHYZI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Electrolux Small Appliances has positioned itself as a new player in the coffee machine category, announcing today that it will be launching a capsule coffee machine range in association with Lavazza.</p> <p> Until now, Electrolux has only distributed floorcare products as part of its small appliances offering. However, the company will be launching its Lavazza A Modo Mio by Electrolux range in April, with a premium and a classic capsule coffee model, both of which will be available in a selection of colours, and will work with existing Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules.</p> <p> Speaking about the new range, John Mahar, managing director of Electrolux Small Appliances Australia said the extension of the brand’s range represented a strong extension of the Electrolux brand.</p> <p> “Electrolux is a leader in designing innovative and thoughtfully designed stylish products across floor care, major kitchen appliances and laundry appliances,” said Mahar. “It is a natural evolution for us to extend our home appliance offering based on our design expertise and consumer insights across these benchtop areas of the home.</p> <p> “We believe that our design innovation, combined with Lavazza’s passion and expertise for espresso coffee, is a perfect match and are very proud that the Lavazza A Modo Mio by Electrolux will be the first of our small appliance offerings.</p> <p> “Late in 2012, some more Electrolux small appliances will be launched and available for our discerning Australian consumers.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The capsule machines have already been launched in Europe, and Australia will be the first country outside this region to launch the machine.</p> <p> The range includes the Lavazza A Modo Mio Premium by Electrolux (RRP $399) available in Piano Black, Silver and Frosted Almond, and the Lavazza A Modo Mio Classic by Electrolux (RRP $349), available in Love Red or Granite Grey.</p> <p> The automatic machines feature LED lighting, adjustable coffee spouts, and standalone or integrated milk frothers, and are compatible with eight Lavazza A Modo Mio coffee blends. A starter kit of 24 Lavazza A Modo Mio coffee capsules is included with machines, and a $50 cashback will be available on machines from late April to 3 June 2012.</p> <p> The Lavazza A Modo Mio by Electrolux coffee machines will be available nationally from Harvey Norman, Myer, The Good Guys stores, and on the <a href="http://store.amodomio.com.au" target="_blank">Lavazza online store</a>. They will also be sold in Lavazza Boutiques in Myer’s George Street (Sydney), Bourke Street (Melbourne) and Chadstone (Melbourne) stores.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="243" src="/image/Electrolux Lavazza_P032091.Png" width="300" /></p> <p> The new Lavazza A Modo Mio PremiumŒby Electrolux capsule coffee machine (in Frosted Almond).</p> Fri, 20 Apr 2012 13:38:36 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/20/article/Parrot-flies-high-with-new-AR-Drone-2-0/QBEENSJVZU.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/20/article/Parrot-flies-high-with-new-AR-Drone-2-0/QBEENSJVZU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Here at Current.com.au, we are very happy to spend our time talking about all the newest appliances and technology that retailers get to show off in their stores. But it’s not often that we get to play with technology that can actually fly around a retail store.</p> <p> Parrot – a French company normally associated with speakers, in-car stereos and hands-free units – has unveiled the newest iteration of its wireless quadricopter, the AR.Drone 2.0.</p> <p> Following on from the original AR.Drone that was released over a year ago, Parrot’s new model has been updated for improved stability and manoeuvrability, and has a range of new features including the ability to record flights in high-definition before sharing them online.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> According to Julien Galou, Parrot’s marketing manager, the new device is “totally stable in any condition, even more stable than the first AR.Drone”. Galou conceded that the first Drone was “a problem for newbies” but that Parrot had kept the quadricopter’s “unique stability” and made improvements.</p> <p> Controlled with through the AR.FreeFlight 2.0 app on an iPad or iPhone (the app is set to become available for Android when launched in Australia), users can pilot the drone through the air and simultaneously view video from the on-board camera on their smartphone or tablet device. Footage is then stored on the mobile device, ready to share on YouTube or Picasa, or it can be stored on an on-boardŒUSB stick (not included), thanks to the USB port under the hull.</p> <p> “The most important thing about the Drone is to try it,” said Galou, emphasising that while the product looks great on the shelf and has a load of new technological advancements, the most fun is to be had in piloting it for yourself.</p> <p> The AR.Drone 2.0 will land in Australia (pardon the pun) in June, and will be available through Dick Smith, EG Games, specialist hobby stores and online for RRP $349.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="385" src="/image/ARDrone2_Julien Galou.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Julien Galou demonstrates the latest AR.Drone 2.0.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="350" src="/image/ARDrone2_Lifestyle.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> The AR.Drone in action.</p> Fri, 20 Apr 2012 12:07:32 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/20/article/Samsung-appoints-new-director-of-IT-Division/ORRMETLWKL.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/20/article/Samsung-appoints-new-director-of-IT-Division/ORRMETLWKL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Samsung has today announced the appointment of a new head to the company’s IT division. Tony Ignatavicius will take on the role of director – IT Division, effective immediately, and will be responsible for heading up the division’s product marketing team.</p> <p> Ignatavicius joins Samsung from Synnex Australia – distributor of brands including Asus, Acer, Intel, Hewlett Packard and Brother – where he held the position of head of commercial sales, and was responsible for managing operations and national strategy.</p> <p> Prior to Synnex, Ignatavicius worked for a number of multi-national companies, including various roles at Hewlett Packard, such as director of product marketing for the consumer and commercial personal systems range. He is set to bring more than 25 years of experience in the ICT sector to Samsung.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “Tony joins Samsung at a pivotal stage in the growth of our IT business, with an exciting range of innovative Samsung IT products launching in the Australian market throughout 2012,” said Samsung Electronics Australia vice president ofŒtelecommunications and IT, Tyler McGee.</p> <p> “His extensive experience and proven track record in the commercial and consumer IT market, made him the perfect fit to strengthen Samsung’s IT business.”</p> <p> In his new role as director of the company’s IT division, Ignatavicius will be responsible for both B2B and B2C channels, with products including Note PC, printers, monitors and large format displays.</p> Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:12:03 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/20/article/In-love-with-3-dimensions-LG-unveils-new-Cinema-3D-TV-line-up/MWUQWAPKUC.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/20/article/In-love-with-3-dimensions-LG-unveils-new-Cinema-3D-TV-line-up/MWUQWAPKUC.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> It’s been a busy week for televisions this week – following <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Samsung-unveils-new-LED-TV-range-with-a-promise-to-consumers/SCQTIYHVHM" target="_blank">Samsung’s LED TV product launch</a> on Tuesday, LG Electronics Australia unveiled its new range of LG Cinema 3D Smart TVs at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney on Wednesday.</p> <p> LG’s marketing general manager, Lambro Skropidis, used the launch to outline the company’s strategy for flat panels and to reaffirm its focus on 3D technology.</p> <p> “Our challenge in this industry is to keep providing consumers with relevant that enhances their lives in such a way that they see value in higher-priced products,” said Skropidis. “Do we expect demand for 3D to continue? The answer is a resounding, ‘Yes’. 3D has not only arrived, but it is gathering rapid momentum.</p> <p> “We feel confident that our 3D technology will become an industry standard into the future,” he added. “Consumers are looking to replicate the cinema experience in the home and, increasingly, they’re purchasing larger and larger sizes of screens that bring this immersive 3D viewing experience into the living room.”</p> <p> Skropidis also reiterated the company’s focus on “three consumer-centric pillars” as a means of finding success in the category, namely, “Premium design, unparalleled viewing experiences, and relevant and simplified connectivity.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> As a part of the launch, guests were invited into the top floor of the MCA to get hands on with the new technology at individual experience stations that showcased the new technological advances of the TV line-up.</p> <p> These included a new Magic Remote – with scroll wheel, voice recognition and gesture functionality – a new range of 3D content and dedicated Smart TV apps, and Smart Share technology.</p> <p> The LG team heralded the benefits of Smart Share, including the ability to push content from high-end LG TVs to a tablet or mobile device with ‘2nd Display’, as well as Wireless Display (or ‘Wi-Di’) technology which enables content to be shared from an Intel Wireless Display-enabled laptop onto an LG Smart TV using a wireless connection.</p> <p> The company was also spruiking its 3D technology, including more advanced 2D to 3D conversion, and guests were treated to a 3D film clip of the song “Top Girl” by Korean singer G. NA – certainly one of the stand-out artists in the K-Pop industry.</p> <p> One of the features that had guests most excited (aside from the ability to play K-Pop) was the new Dual Play functionality for 2-player console gaming. Using LG’s passive 3D technology, Dual Play overlays two screen images (one for each player’s point of view in the game) on top of each other. The players then wear glasses that pick up only one of the image feeds, meaning they can have a full-screen view of their game, and they won’t be able to peek at their opponent’s point of view.</p> <p> In a demonstration, this reporter was impressed by just how effective such a simple idea could be. We predict that there will certainly be some gaming fans that will want to get their hands on this.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="435" src="/image/LG Cinema 3D_Sean Connery.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> LG was keen to talk up the "cinema" side of its new Cinema 3D TV range.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="473" src="/image/LG Cinema 3D Popart.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> LG had decked out the venue with a range of art pieces (designed to showcase its design cred) including this pop-art piece showing off the benefits of the magic remote.</p> Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:03:24 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/The-10-craziest-rangehoods-weve-ever-seen---live-from-EuroCucina/FBKRSPQSQD.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/The-10-craziest-rangehoods-weve-ever-seen---live-from-EuroCucina/FBKRSPQSQD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Patrick Avenell at EuroCucina</p> <p> One of the more amusing battlegrounds at EuroCucina 2012 is which manufacturer can produce the whackiest rangehood. Here are Current.com.au's selections for the weirdest rangehood designs on show in Milan:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="316" src="/image/1(3).jpg" width="307" /></p> <p> This concept hood from Neff was created solely to prove <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Style-over-substance-sort-of-for-Neff/KPULUXZRYN.html" target="_blank">Germans aren't always serious</a>.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/2(2).JPG" width="519" /></p> <p> Well known for their designer series, this Smeg hood is more Rubens than Newson.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/3(2).jpg" width="519" /></p> <p> Hoover has gone with a sort of inverse CBA logo here. We quite like this one.</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/image/4(1).jpg" /></p> <p> This is one of several out-there designs by Falmec. Not really sure what's going one here, but it looks more like a lampshade than a sophisticated electrical appliance.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/5(3).jpg" width="519" /></p> <p> Here's a full row of Falmec masterpieces/monstrosities (delete where applicable).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/6(2).jpg" width="519" /></p> <p> These two hoods are from Faber, the self-styled 'First Italian Rangehood Company'.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/7(1).jpg" width="519" /></p> <p> More from Faber - it's from here that things get really weird...</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/8(2).jpg" width="519" /></p> <p> CallŒus conservative, but this is not a rangehood! Faber certainlyŒconfused onlookers with thisŒupside-side half eaten strawberry, but it had nothing on the confusion caused by this next rangehood. Presenting, the craziest rangehood we've ever seen:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/9.jpg" width="519" /></p> <p> With a cylindrical ventilator that drops down fromŒthe hood proper when in use, thisŒFaber rangehood takes the freshly baked cake (with no fire alarms) forŒthe whackiestŒappliance at EuroCucina 2012.Œ</p> Thu, 19 Apr 2012 23:35:42 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/Kenwood-kMix-Boutique-range-launch-Image-Gallery/GMDOYEDFDC.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/Kenwood-kMix-Boutique-range-launch-Image-Gallery/GMDOYEDFDC.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Kenwood launched its new kMix Boutique small kitchen appliance range in Sydney last night. Guests braved the torrential rain to be greeted by a technicolour landscape of kMix-branded paint tins, pop-colour floral arrangements and huge banners showcasing Kenwood’s latest advertising creative.</p> <p> Hosted by Erika Heynatz, who was suitably dressed in a bright pink dress, the event brought together representatives from Australia’s biggest retail chains who were treated to a fashion parade showcasing bright young things from Australian Fashion Week, and eight new “state of the art” video spots that Kenwood produced to promote the appliance range.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> CEO of De’Longhi Australia and Kenwood, Paolo Albertoni, said that he was sure that the range would not only be a hit on the retail floor, but would also help to increase the average selling price of small appliances.</p> <p> He said that the kMix Boutique range was about selling the small appliance message in terms other than pricing, and that Kenwood was going to “change the way the industry communicates”.</p> <p> Part of that communication will include the themed promotional videos – some of which certainly raised eyebrows last night – and Kenwood’s first dedicated Facebook page and a microsite. Kenwood is also pushing a colour quiz to help consumers find out their “colour personality”.</p> <p> Heynatz ventured a guess that Albertoni’s personality colour was black, “Because you’re dark, mysterious and engaging.”</p> <p> Albertoni’s response? “You’re absolutely right.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="375" src="/image/kMix Venue.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> The full colour fit-out, before guests arrived.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="381" src="/image/kMix Yellow.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> The appliances were positioned in colour blocks around the room, which certainly looked spectacular.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="348" src="/image/kMix_Heynatz.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> CEO of De'Longhi and Kenwood, Paolo Albertoni, with Erika Heynatz.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="400" src="/image/kMix Giant.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> These giant appliances look normal (and there's no point of reference for scale) but each display stood at the height of an average person.</p> Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:08:50 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/Exclusive-insight-into-Smegs-Italian-dishwasher-factory/GHAUFDBBBP.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/Exclusive-insight-into-Smegs-Italian-dishwasher-factory/GHAUFDBBBP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell in Italy</p> <p> Dishwashers have been a key battleground at EuroCucina this year as brands such as Miele, Bosch and Smeg compete for the fastest wash cycle using the least amount of water.</p> <p> While Smeg appears to have the fastest turbo wash cycle at 16 minutes, Bosch is claiming the superior water consumption at around 6 litres. Both these brand names were spotted earlier this week when current.com.au visited the former's dishwasher factory in Bonferraro, an hour south of Milan.</p> <p> Fully owned by Smeg, which itself is still a family-owned business, this factory manufactures dishwashers and laundry appliances for Smeg and a small number of OEM clients.</p> <p> The first thing that strikes you upon entry is how clean this factory is. Although not as impeccable as some previously visited Japanese flat panel plants, this factory shames the Chinese appliance factories current.com.au has toured.</p> <p> There are two production lines for dishwashers at this factory; one for 60-centimetre machines and one for 45-centimetre models. Operating at full capacity, the considerably busier 60cm line can produce 1,500 pieces per day.</p> <p> At the start of the line, several robots work in unison to prepare, shape and process the metal sheet casing of the dishwasher. This stage is fully automated, the excess scrap metal collected and recycled.</p> <p> With the sheets pressed and fitted into the cube shell of the dishwasher, the process then continues through several stages of robotic and human fitting.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Once the collection of metals and plastics begin to resemble a dishwasher, the human involvement becomes much more significant. Every dishwasher is tested before leaving the line, with any faulty models analysed for future improvement. Random models are taken off the line for further detailed and intense testing.</p> <p> Many of these processes have been observed in factories from other brands and of other products around the world. Where this factory stood out for this reporter was in the behind the scenes activities aimed at continually improving Smeg products.</p> <p> Smeg keeps selected models in its dishwasher range for 10 years to continually conduct life cycle testing. The smell in this room was not particularly pleasant, due mostly to the years of eggs and spinach that have been thrust upon plate after plate in testing. Smeg sources said there was a similar room hidden in the bowels of the factory running the same continuous testing on all the competitor brands.</p> <p> Then there was the frankly bizarre sound room: a square enclosure completely padded with foam pyramids jutting out from the four walls and ceiling. When in this room, the pressure on your eardrums becomes noticeably intense. The purpose of this room, it was said, was to test and improve the noise levels of dishwashers.</p> <p> The overall fault rate at this factory so far in 2012 in 1.05 per cent. Smeg export area manager Anthony Giliberti said the target for the year was to get this figure down to 0.73 per cent. He said that in comparable European factories, the fault rate was 2-to-3 per cent, while globally the figure was around 3-to-5 per cent.</p> Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:42:29 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/Introducing-a-new-cooking-brand-Ele-Trolux/HESPQRAYZI.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/Introducing-a-new-cooking-brand-Ele-Trolux/HESPQRAYZI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Il UnderCurrento, the Italian second counsin of UnderCurrent, thinks that if you're only going to get one thing right at a major international trade fair, it should be your brand name. Unfortunately for Electrolux, the lack of one letter from its EuroCucina stand's marque left the hosts not C-ing straight...</p> <p> <img alt="" height="519" src="/image/Electro.jpg" width="346" /></p> <p> And up close and personal:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/Electro2.jpg" width="519" /></p> <p> UPDATO: Il UnderCurrento is pleased to report that this has been rectified. Prego:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="480" src="/image/photo(3).JPG" style="width: 511px; height: 372px" width="640" /></p> Thu, 19 Apr 2012 06:56:41 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/Shower-heater-wows-crowds-cleans-users-warms-bathroom/ZMHMOJLEXC.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/Shower-heater-wows-crowds-cleans-users-warms-bathroom/ZMHMOJLEXC.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Bathroom heating appliances have been a consistent seller for market leader IXL Tastic for many years - consumers have loved the Tastic brand and products, a sentiment that distributor Sampford IXL will be hoping never fades away.</p> <p> While at EuroCucina this week, Current.com.au was one of many visitors heartily impressed by a new technology in bathroom heating by Italian company Vismara Vetro.</p> <p> Called 'Parete Radiante',this heating appliance involved the embedding of an element within the glass walls of the shower. The heat radiating from the glass fills the room, while also keeping warm bath towels hanging from a dedicated rack.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Here's how Vismara Vetro describes the Parete Radiante:</p> <p> "The glass panel that forms the radiating wall is comprised of two sheets of tempered, layered glass. Heat is generated by an electric current inside the panel, which is protected by double insulation around its edges."</p> <p> And here's what it looks like:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="519" src="/image/Shower.jpg" width="346" /></p> <p> The Parete Radiante from VIsmara Vetro. </p> Thu, 19 Apr 2012 06:48:18 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Uniden-takes-homeland-security-to-app-tastic-heights/ONKJCDRFMU.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Uniden-takes-homeland-security-to-app-tastic-heights/ONKJCDRFMU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Whether you're a new parent looking to watch over your baby, a privacy fiend wanting to secure your property or a amateur spy looking to take your stealth credentials to the next level, Uniden has the right device to suit your surveillance needs.</p> <p> Guardian is Uniden's newest product in its wireless surveillance range, with users now able to monitor the action being recorded on cameras through a dedicated tablet or an app on their smartphone or tablet.</p> <p> This means that, for example, a dedicated home security buff can watch over their front lawn all day while at work on their phone, or a business-person travelling overseas can still watch over their children while stuck in a potentially boring pipeline meeting at the global head office.</p> <p> Naturally, Uniden isn't promoting this aspect of the Guardian, preferring to think of it as an "affordable DIY security solution for homes and businesses".</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Here's senior national marketing executive Brad Hales.</p> <p> “Australian residents and business owners are becoming more vigilant about security, and increasingly looking to DIY security solutions which are simple and affordable, rather than outlaying significant expenses with a 24-hour surveillance company," Hales said.</p> <p> “As Australia’s first tablet-style wireless surveillance system with a remote viewing app, the launch of Guardian strengthens Uniden’s commitment to innovation in the DIY surveillance category.Œ</p> <p> "Uniden Guardian is an exceptionally user-friendly, high quality, plug-and-play system that caters to the needs of homeowners and businesses, and with the remote viewing app, users have the peace of mind in knowing that checking up on their property is only a click away.”</p> <p> Features of the Guardian models include infrared night vision (up to 12 metres), ‘true daytime colour’ picture quality, 2x digital zoom with pan and tilt capabilities and live viewing on PCs, Macs, and iOS and Android devices.</p> <p> There are three models of the Uniden Guardian, which will be available instore on 1 June: Guardian G2720 (7-inch tablet plus two weatherproof cameras) for RRP $549. Guardian G2711 (7-inch tablet, one weatherproof camera plus one indoor camera) for RRP $549. Guardian G2710 (7-inch tablet plus one weatherproof camera) for RRP $449.</p> <p> Consumers who purchase the G2720 pack will also receive, via redemption, a free indoor camera (RRP $129). More information on this promotion will be available on <a href="http://uniden.com.au/AUSTRALIA/cs_current_promotions.asp" target="_blank">Uniden's dedicated promotions website</a> closer to the release date.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="295" src="/image/Uniden Guardian.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> The Uniden Guardian surveillance system.</p> Wed, 18 Apr 2012 09:16:36 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Samsung-unveils-new-LED-TV-range-with-a-promise-to-consumers/SCQTIYHVHM.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Samsung-unveils-new-LED-TV-range-with-a-promise-to-consumers/SCQTIYHVHM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> After revealing its new product line-up at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier in the year, Samsung unveiled the new additions to its Smart TV line-up in Sydney overnight, with an entry-level LED range joining its Slim LED range and marking the end of the company’s involvement in the LCD category.</p> <p> Phil Newton, director at Samsung Electronics Australia presented the new range, talking up the “four pillars” of Samsung’s Smart TV strategy: Smart Interaction, Smart Connectivity, Smart Content and Picture Quality.</p> <p> Newton noted that the last 12 months in the television category had been typified by “low cost and low quality” and that Samsung was attempting to remedy this situation for retailers and consumers with its new range.</p> <p> The new EH Series of LED televisions are slightly thicker than Samsung’s Slim LED range, largely because of the rear-projection technology used in the units (as opposed to side projection), and as a result, they have a lower selling price than the high-end models.</p> <p> According to Newton, Samsung’s “LCD range will disappear in favour of the EH range,” which will be “situated next to LCD products” on the retail floor. There are six models in the LED range: the E420, EH4000 and EH4500 in Series 4; the EH5006 and EH5306 (exclusive to The Good Guys) in Series 5, and the EH6000 in Series 6.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Sitting at a higher price point with more added features (including gesture and voice control, web browsing, Samsung apps and 3D on some models) is the Slim LED range. This range spreads across Series 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, and includes: The ES4000, ES5000, ES5500, ES6200, ES6600 (exclusive to Harvey Norman), ES6700 (exclusive to Narta stores), ES6800, ES7500 and the top of the line ES8000.</p> <p> In an interesting value add that could push consumers over the line towards a Samsung product on the retail level, Newton said that Samsung were offering free installation and education for consumers, toŒinform them of the technological benefits of the high-end models.</p> <p> “We need to be closer to the consumer,” said Newton. “We’ve done a lot of social interaction with our consumers, through things like Facebook, and what they’ve told us is that we assume a lot about what they know and what they don’t know. And that’s a mistake.</p> <p> “What we’re going to do is go right through the A to Z of the product. It is our most complex product that we’ve ever released. No technology is perfect, and with this product specifically, the environment you set it up in is critical. We need to explain to you how it’s going to work.</p> <p> “So it’s about having a conversation with consumers, and it’s about learning how they operate as well. It’s not about taking anything out of the retailers’ hands – certainly we hope it drives our sales, but most of all it’s for education.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="400" src="/image/Samsung TV_Phil Newton.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Samsung Electronics Australia director, Phil Newton.</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/image/Samsung TV launch aerial.jpg" /></p> <p> The Samsung launch event in Sydney last night.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="227" src="/image/LED ES8000_Kids_UI copy.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Samsung's top-of-the-line ES8000 includes a range of apps, including games for kids.</p> Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:53:00 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Style-over-substance-sort-of-for-Neff/KPULUXZRYN.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Style-over-substance-sort-of-for-Neff/KPULUXZRYN.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell at EuroCucina</p> <p> Neff is looking to add an attractive design element to its upcoming kitchen appliances releases, with the German brand showcasing new designs rather than new technology at the EuroCucina kitchen appliance trade fair overnight.</p> <p> Neff, which is globally part of the Bosch Siemens company and is distributed in Australia by Sampford IXL, is perhaps best known locally for its Slide and Hide oven doors. Despite the convenience of this technology, Neff product manager - cooking, Nikolaus Schnetzer, told Current.com.au that functionality will be joined by attractive aesthetic elements by the end of the year.</p> <p> "Neff has always had the technology in our ovens but not the design," he said. "Designers would use our ovens but would look to Italy for the rangehoods."</p> <p> In order to change that mixing and matching, Neff is now showcasing the Air Deluxe 100, which will go on sale in Europe this month, and potentially in Australia in 2013.</p> <p> Schnetzer said the standout feature of this rangehood, in addition to its floating box design, are filters from German manufacturer Mahle.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> "These filters allow for low noise, high power and extremely high odour reduction - around 98 per cent," he claimed.</p> <p> Also on show at the Neff stand is a new five-zone FlexInduction hob. This 80 centimetre appliance contains three dedicated induction zones and one large FlexInduction zone which can be used for two regular sized cookware pieces or one large piece. Neff claims a market first with this release.</p> <p> Finally, Neff has a new Twin Pump vario-steam oven. The advantage of a second pump is that, according to Neff, during the transformation process of water to steam with the oven's pipes, drops can become stranded between the reservoir and the oven cavity. The second pump pushes this water back to the reservoir to prevent clogging.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/1Neff(1).jpg" width="519" /></p> <p> Nikolaus Schnetzer with a concept, frameless VarioSteam oven.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="519" src="/image/2Neff.jpg" width="346" /></p> <p> The Air Deluxe 100, which has just been released in Europe.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="519" src="/image/3Neff.jpg" width="346" /></p> <p> A prototype version of a new rangehood. </p> Wed, 18 Apr 2012 09:09:22 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Smeg-trumps-Miele-in-dishwasher-speed-war/AIKNKPCPAQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Smeg-trumps-Miele-in-dishwasher-speed-war/AIKNKPCPAQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell at EuroCucina</p> <p> The EuroCucina kitchen and bathroom appliance fair in Milan, Italy, was the scene of a dishwasher speed battle overnight, with both Smeg and Miele claiming new records for turbo cycles in their dishwashers.</p> <p> Smeg's new Domestic Pro line of dishwashers, which are made in Italy at the company's factory in Bonferraro, boasts a 16-minute 'Ultra Rapid' cycle in selected models. This speed is achieved by the incorporation of a dual-core system - effectively two motors powering the 5,600-watt appliance.</p> <p> The Ultra Rapid cycle uses 10 litres of water during its 16 minutes of cleaning, while a normal cycle uses just 6.5 litres. As a sign of how far appliance manufacturers have come in relation to sustainability and environmental concerns, a standard dishwashing cycle 15 years ago used around 17-20 litres, according to Smeg.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Just across the aisle from Smeg's stand at the trade show is Miele. Also a very attractive stand, Miele is focusing on two things: it's 'culinary competence' through FlexTouch Induction and its own new range of dishwashers.</p> <p> Here's how Miele describes its new dishwashers in its official press release:</p> <p> "Miele will be presenting the fastest fully integrated dishwasher in the world, using professional commercial-grade technology to wash loads in only 17 minutes, leaving the competition standing."</p> <p> One minute too late?</p> Wed, 18 Apr 2012 03:57:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Kenwood-brings-out-the-colour-on-a-grey-Sydney-day/JZSPYATXOY.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Kenwood-brings-out-the-colour-on-a-grey-Sydney-day/JZSPYATXOY.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Kenwood will be officially launching its new kMix Boutique range of small kitchen appliances tonight, showcasing the range of six products at an event in Sydney’s Dawes Point. The range, which includes eight bright colours, is sure to add a splash of colour to a very grey and dreary day of Sydney weather.</p> <p> The range includes a Kitchen Machine, Bench Blender, Triblade Hand Blender, Hand Mixer, Jug Kettle and Two-Slice Toaster, and each product is available in a choice of Passion Pink, Coconut White, Glam Green, Sun Kissed Yellow, Outrageous Orange, Raspberry Red, Peppercorn Black and Bold Blue.</p> <p> In addition to the dedicated launch event, Kenwood will also be out in force at the Plates for Mates benefit dinner tonight, bringing along appliances from the kMix Boutique range to bring some colourful support to the fundraiser.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The Plates for Mates benefit is being held at Sydney’s Steel Bar & Grill and will raise money to support celebrity chef and caterer Matt Golinski who lost his wife and three daughters in a house fire on Boxing Day last year.</p> <p> Funds are also being raised for The McComb Foundation which was established by reconstructive surgeon and former Australian of the year, Dr Fiona Wood. The foundation conducts research into tissue engineering technologies and works with burns victims such as Golinski to aid their recovery and raise their quality of life.</p> <p> Tonight’s dinner, which is just one of many events being held across Australia as part of the Plates for Mates initiative, will be attended by a range of celebrity chefs, including George Calombaris from Masterchef and Manu Feildel of My Kitchen Rules.</p> <p> Donations can be made at the <a href="http://platesformates.com.au/" target="_blank">Plates for Mates website</a>, where there is also information on how to start your own fundraiser event.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="159" src="/image/kMix Hand Blender Line up.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Kenwood's kMix Boutique range, including the Triblade Hand Blender,Œis available in eight colours.</p> Tue, 17 Apr 2012 13:00:37 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Panasonics-recycling-credentials-will-be-invaluable-to-ANZRP-Part-2/FJJFOJQGSB.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Panasonics-recycling-credentials-will-be-invaluable-to-ANZRP-Part-2/FJJFOJQGSB.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Following on from <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Panasonics-recycling-credentials-will-be-invaluable-to-ANZRP-Part-1/WTMYDYTHGL.html" target="_blank">yesterday's introduction to the history and environmental credentials of Panasonic</a>, Current.com.au today presents Part Two of this special feature.</p> <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> For clarity, references to ‘Matsushita’ always refer to the Panasonic founder. The company, previously known by several names, is always referred to as ‘Panasonic’.</p> <p> An Environmental Dilemma</p> <p> In game theory, there’s a scenario called The Volunteer’s Dilemma. Imagine if an apartment building suffered a blackout. If only one resident called and paid for an electrician to visit, everyone in the apartment will get their power back. But if none of the residents call an electrician, none of them will get their electricity switched on.</p> <p> The propensity for residents to do nothing — to assume that someone else will bear the cost — is natural. This leads to what’s known as ‘freeriding’.</p> <p> The compulsion for freeriding in the recycling dilemma is enormous. If you’re running a business charged with making money for your stakeholders, it is a big step to invest money in a voluntary scheme that may or may not be effective.</p> <p> Two years ago, Panasonic Australia managing director Steve Rust hit out at freeriders, telling Current.com.au that a tax on importing TVs must be industry-wide and must apply to each and every TV brought into the country.</p> <p> The use of ‘freeriders’ as an epithet was thrown about by PSA executive director John Gertsakis and by Sony national technology services manager Stuart Clark. Explaining the counter view at that time was ViewSonic country manager William Tse.</p> <p> “Existing PSA members are conglomerates that have large operations in Australia,” Tse said. “ViewSonic is a global company, however with a small business set up locally compared with PSA member companies.</p> <p> “Becoming a member of PSA at this point in time would not be beneficial or economically viable for ViewSonic. PSA membership is not compulsory and without legislation in place, members are effectively lobbyists.”</p> <p> Effectively lobbyists? Maybe.</p> <p> Effective lobbyists? Definitely. The conflict between PSA members and the so-called ‘freeriders’ may have stalled progress, but it did not stop it. Under the Product Stewardship Bill 2011, “no supplier of new TVs and computer equipment can avoid their collection and recycling obligations”.</p> <p> In his role as Panasonic managing director, Rust was living Panasonic’s global green vision. This longterm involvement in PSA would soon become an important backbone in Panasonic Australia’s efforts to market and sell products, rather than simply recycle them.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="text-align: center; padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a></p> <p> Green Washing and Drying</p> <p> Panasonic Australia’s consumer products revenue over the last decade has been focused squarely on its successful and popular Viera-brand plasma TVs and Lumix-brand digital cameras. With price erosion affecting both of these categories, Panasonic is now beginning to market products in new categories, such as air conditioning, irons, refrigeration and laundry.</p> <p> As part of its market proposition, Panasonic will be heavily promoting the green features of its new appliance ranges. This strategy proved effective last summer, when Panasonic launched an air conditioning range with an ‘eco patrol sensor’ to monitor how many people were in the room and adjust temperatures accordingly.</p> <p> When a large corporation sells its products along green lines it runs a big risk. The media and consumers are very sceptical of big companies talking up the environment while actually doing very little to improve it. It’s a practice called ‘greenwashing’, and it has led to enormous public backlashes.</p> <p> One such example was BP, which rebranded itself Beyond Petroleum and stylised its logo in green and yellow in a worldwide marketing campaign. The British company was then responsible for the Deepwater Horizon catastrophe, the largest accidental marine oil spill in history. The result was widespread ridicule, abandonment of public trust and an estimated total cost of $40 billion.</p> <p> Panasonic is on safer ground. At the very least, its commitment to environmental efficiencies is genuine. At a presentation in Osaka by Panasonic environmental planning group manager Rui Nakao, the five key tenets of the global “Green Plan 2018” were outlined.</p> <p> These objectives were to reduce CO2 emissions, improve the recycling of resources, reduce water consumption, minimise the environmental impact of chemical substances, and identify the impact of operations on biodiversity and exercise harm minimisation.</p> <p> “We have made the environment central to all our business activities and we’re bringing forth innovation,” said Nakao. “The world is at a significant turning point.”</p> <p> In an architectural expression of this initiative, Panasonic has built a paragon of environmental living at its Eco Ideas House in Tokyo. Features of this house include improved sunlight penetration; LED lighting; a top-loading, tilted-drum washer/dryer; a heat pump to reduce power consumption; and a solar power generation system on the roof. One practical innovation is a sit-down shower, which claims to reduce water consumption by 85 per cent.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="text-align: center; padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-left-width: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Home Truths</p> <p> In Australia, Panasonic has endowed a professorship at Macquarie University to former Australian of the Year and climate change crusader Tim Flannery. When he’s not discovering new species of kangaroos, Flannery works to educate those who’ll listen on how the earth is changing and what humans can do to arrest these inconvenient truths.</p> <p> This association with Macquarie University is worth almost $700,000 over three years, with the funding earmarked for environmental research and public education.</p> <p> The first research project undertaken with this grant was a study into consumers’ perceptions about eco-conscious electronics and appliances. More than three-quarters of the 2,000 respondents said they were aware of and concerned by environmental issues, while more than 90 per cent agreed that their own actions can make a difference.</p> <p> Encouragingly for a company releasing an eco range of appliances, this research found that almost 90 per cent of respondents had a positive perception of the performance of appliances with environmental features. The final report noted that past research found that consumers considered eco-friendly appliances to have inferior performance.</p> <p> Konosuke Matsushita’s philosophy was highlighted by a willingness to remain open to new ideas. He described this as having an “untrapped mind”.</p> <p> “The untrapped mind is open enough to many possibilities,” he said, “Humble enough to learn from anyone and anything, forbearing enough to forgive all, perceptive enough to see things as they really are, and reasonable enough to judge their true value.”</p> <p> Panasonic clearly has more than an open mind on the divisive climate change issue. Regardless of the truth quotient of both sides’ claims, it is pushing on with its environmental objectives, maintaining its volunteer position in the appliances game.</p> <p> This column first appeared in the October 2011 edition of Appliance Retailer magazine, under the headline, 'How Green Was My Company?'.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Panasonics-recycling-credentials-will-be-invaluable-to-ANZRP-Part-1/WTMYDYTHGL.html" target="_blank">Read Part One of this story here.</a></p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/09/06/article/Image-Gallery-The-factory-where-appliances-come-to-die--And-be-reborn-/JVSLXEADLD.html" target="_blank">View our image gallery of the recycling plant at the Panasonic Eco Technology Center (PETEC).</a></p> Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:27:35 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Activists-wage-fake-point-of-sale-campaign-on-Harvey-Norman/APCFCFATGM.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Activists-wage-fake-point-of-sale-campaign-on-Harvey-Norman/APCFCFATGM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Harvey Norman is facing a PR crisis on its very own shop floors as environmental activists wage a guerrilla-style campaign on the retailer to protest the company's use of timber in furniture products.</p> <p> Environmental action group The Last Stand is calling on consumers to hang mock tags on furniture products in Harvey Norman stores, leading retail customers to a video condemning Harvey Norman’s timber-sourcing practices.</p> <p> The tags are made to mimic traditional point of sale materials, with the company logo and a QR code that customers can scan to supposedly “find out how you can win”. However, the QR code redirects the scanner’s smartphone to a video that shows images of cleared forests, accompanied by the sound of chainsaws and the tagline, “This is where Australian native forest furniture comes from”.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The Last Stand has information on the campaign <a href="http://www.thelaststand.org.au/lets-play-tag/" target="_blank">on its website</a>, including details on how other activists can get involved.ŒA downloadable “Action Pack” is also available, with templates of the false tags and instructions on how to find nearby Harvey Norman stores to distribute them.</p> <p> The action group also has a series of photographs on its website, showing activists distributing the tags in-store.</p> <p> The campaign is not the first time that Harvey Norman has been targeted by activists. Earlier in the year, the independent organisation Get Up! <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=7ZSRLbRQVHk#!" target="_blank">ran a video</a> slamming Harveys’ environmental track record whilst also harpooning the company’s well-known television commercial-style.</p> <p> Harvey Norman was not available for comment when contacted by Current.com.au.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="573" src="/image/Harvey Norman Tag Template.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> A template of the fake tag, provided on The Last Stand's website.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="374" src="/image/Harvey Norman Tagging.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> The action group has uploaded images of activists positioning the tags in-store.</p> Tue, 17 Apr 2012 14:56:54 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/DeLonghi-acquires-Braun-brand-licence-for-small--home-appliances/TXCRKPNUFE.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/DeLonghi-acquires-Braun-brand-licence-for-small--home-appliances/TXCRKPNUFE.html Current.com.au Correspondent Tue, 17 Apr 2012 13:57:58 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Panasonics-recycling-credentials-will-be-invaluable-to-ANZRP-Part-1/WTMYDYTHGL.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Panasonics-recycling-credentials-will-be-invaluable-to-ANZRP-Part-1/WTMYDYTHGL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> The news last week that Panasonic Australia MD Steve Rust had been appointed to the board of the Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform is a huge competitive advantage for that recycler. As the ANZRP competes against DHL and E-Cycle Solutions, and other potential providers, for contracts, Current.com.au today presents a special feature on the history of Panasonic and the environmental focus this company already has in its home country.</p> <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> For clarity, references to ‘Matsushita’ always refer to the Panasonic founder. The company, previously known by several names, is always referred to as ‘Panasonic’.</p> <p> No one subject has polarised Australians more than our responsibility, or lack thereof, to the environment. Green initiatives have led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and his then opponent Malcolm Turnbull.</p> <p> These falls from grace were the beginning, not the end. Opinion polls predict that current PM Julia Gillard would lose a snap election in a landslide due to her Government’s policy to put a price on carbon. A green conscience can soon turn red with the blood that has been lost.</p> <p> Despite this controversy and the perceived doubt that exists over human-influenced climate change, Panasonic Australia is wholly committed to the corporation’s global philosophy called ‘Eco Ideas’.</p> <p> At the core of this movement is an audacious prediction. Just as the 19th Century was marked by changes to manufacturing brought about by the Industrial Revolution, and the 20th Century experienced a technology upheaval, Panasonic’s planning for the remainder of the 21st Century is centred on a Green Revolution.</p> <p> By the fulfilment of this predicted revolution, Panasonic’s goal is to be known as the “number one green innovator in the electronics industry”.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a></p> <p> 250 Years of Foresight</p> <p> To fully appreciate this bold vision, one must look back at the company’s founding in a humble wood-thatched Osakan house-cum-factory. It was 1918 when 23-year-old Konosuke Matsushita started manufacturing light sockets with his wife and brother-in-law. A man ahead of this time, the official history tells that Matsushita traded bicycle manufacturing for electronics when he saw an electric tram as a 15-year-old.</p> <p> This St Paul style conversion may be romanticised, but what it is not in doubt is Matsushita’s enthusiasm for grand plans. In 1932, he delivered a speech that still resonates with employees and still influences the direction of the company. In this address, Matsushita outlined his 250-year plan for the manufacturer that would eventually become Panasonic.</p> <p> While many companies struggle to formulate 5- or 10-year plans, Matsushita organised the growth of Panasonic into ten 25-year cycles.</p> <p> The first of these cycles saw tremendous growth in the company, with the introduction of heaters, irons and radios. Shortly thereafter, Matsushita’s factories were taken over by the Japanese Imperial Government for World War II production and then his management staff was purged by postwar regulations.</p> <p> Matsushita’s determination to rebuild his company was heavily influenced by his desire to see greater equality in Japanese society. Whatever remnants of Japan’s feudal, class-based system were eliminated by the Allied reconstruction, and the westernisation of Japan was the fountainhead for the economic boom that would follow. This greater spread of wealth made it possible for Matsushita to more widely realise his company goals.</p> <p> “The state of exhilaration that comes from bringing joy to the customer is everywhere to be found,” he said. “That is why I think it essential to engage in business and run a company with an eye towards bringing happiness to your customers.”</p> <p> Matsushita also encouraged his staff to find ways of making electronic appliances more affordable. When television services started in Japan, a 17-inch black and white TV cost more than 20 times that of a standard salary. This was not acceptable for Matsushita.</p> <p> “I don’t care if you do it by working harder and earning more money, or by using your own ingenuity — whatever it takes — develop a TV that you yourselves can afford,” instructed Matsushita, who would be able to release a TV at one-quarter the cost within three years.</p> <p> This drive to engineer change was a key component of Panasonic’s growth from small town manufacturer to global Tier 1 electronics supplier. Now into the fourth of Panasonic’s 25-year cycles, the company is confronting the Green Revolution, amongst other new challenges.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Cycling and Recycling</p> <p> One of Panasonic’s first products was battery-powered bicycle light released in 1923. It was a complete failure. Instead of changing the product, Matsushita changed his strategy. He gave away free samples to traders and dealers so they could demonstrate the light to potential customers. This proved a huge success. Almost as an aside, the light was a perfectly good product for its time.</p> <p> The strategy of the last 100 years has been to make new products, market them and sell them, to replace the old products. Little thought was ever given to what became of the old products. In Australia, our front lawns have long been the final resting place for our once-loved TV or washing machine or fridge. But we were wrong — the final resting place for these appliances was actually landfill.</p> <p> Japan is the geo-political opposite of Australia: it’s a small country with a big population. The problem of ‘landfull’ has already arrived, and the Japanese Government has acted, implementing new laws mandating compulsory recycling on four product categories: TVs, laundry, refrigeration and air conditioners.</p> <p> At the Panasonic Eco Technology Centre (PETEC) in Kato City, one hour’s drive south of Osaka, these TVs and appliances are crushed and separated into scrap metal, plastics and other waste, with these materials then on-sold for future use.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/09/06/article/Image-Gallery-The-factory-where-appliances-come-to-die--And-be-reborn-/JVSLXEADLD.html" target="_blank">Click here to see an image gallery from PETEC.</a></p> <p> Interestingly, this is not an act of environmental charity for Panasonic, with PETEC running at a profit. Revenues are generated by a levy on recycling and income from the sale of parts. This profit is then reinvested into research and development, rather than being distributed to shareholders.</p> <p> Of even more interest is this levy. Unlike in Australia, where manufacturers and importers are expected to pay for recycling, it’s the consumers funding the scheme in Japan. According to PETEC president Kazayuki Tomita, current rates for TV recycling are around AU $22 for a small TV and AU $28 for a large TV.</p> <p> Although this model appears to work in Japan, the industry body charged with implementing a recycling scheme in Australia, Product Stewardship Australia (PSA, which has since 'transitioned' into the ANZRP) has no plans to charge consumers. The Gillard Government act legislating the TV and PC recycling scheme, passed on 22 June 2011, all but guarantees that both retailers and consumers will not bear any cost for this process.</p> <p> “The first sectors to drive this new age of action on product take-back and recycling are the TV and ICT industries,” said a PSA spokesperson shortly after the bill was passed. “With funding and implementation to come from TV and computer manufacturers and suppliers, Australia is poised to benefit from an industry-led collection, recycling and community education initiative.”</p> <p> Panasonic is an active member of PSA, along with Sony, Samsung, Sharp, Sanyo, LG, Hisense, TEAC, Philips, JVC, Toshiba and Bush. Although this is a sizable representation of the TV industry, there are still many TV brands and importers not involved.</p> <p> Part 2 will be published on this website tomorrow.</p> <p> This article originally appeared in the October 2011 edition of Appliance Retailer magazine, under the headline, 'How Green Was My Company?'.</p> Tue, 17 Apr 2012 12:42:08 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Smegs-denim-refrigerator-where-appliances-and-clothing-meet/DRWODMKEDU.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Smegs-denim-refrigerator-where-appliances-and-clothing-meet/DRWODMKEDU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Smeg has achieved the seemingly impossible, merging clothing and refrigeration into a single product. The new FAB28RDB is a fully functional 1950s style refrigerator with a denim coating – suffice to say this is a world first.</p> <p> Officially unveiled in Milan overnight, Current.com.au had the chance to see, touch and feel this remarkable creation at Smeg’s cooking factory in Guastalla, in northern Italy.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-color: ; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The concept for the new FAB denim fridge, for which there will be an original production run of only 500 units, was dreamed up by Lapo Elkann, an enigmatic and visionary member of the Agnelli family, owners of the Fiat automobile company and Juventus Football Club. Elkann told Smeg CEO Vittorio Bertazzoni about this idea, with the latter using his family company’s rich heritage to make this admittedly bizarre appliance a reality.</p> <p> According to Smeg sources, 390 of the 500 pieces have already received commitments to purchase, with a sizable number heading to Australia.</p> <p> The denim on the FAB28DRB is coated with a plasma to protect it from dirt, grime and splashes; while the internal mechanics of the fridge mirror that of previously released models.</p> <p> This is one refrigerator that really needs to be touched to believed: it truly is a denim coating, with a seam stitched into it, so it looks and feels exactly like a pair of jeans.</p> <p> Smeg sources could not confirm if a skinny jeans version is in production for the Gen Y market.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="519" src="/image/FAB1.jpg" width="346" /></p> <p> The new Smeg FAB28RDB with a denim coat.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="519" src="/image/FAB2.jpg" width="346" /></p> <p> A look at the fridge from behind.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/FAB3.jpg" width="519" /></p> <p> The model we saw was #19 of 500 units.</p> Tue, 17 Apr 2012 07:14:28 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/16/article/Make-Secure-Password-Management-Easy-with-Trend-Micro-DirectPass/QXMENASTDJ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/16/article/Make-Secure-Password-Management-Easy-with-Trend-Micro-DirectPass/QXMENASTDJ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="" height="311" src="/image/TM DirectPass.JPG" width="299" /></p> <p> Œ</p> <p> Trend Micro DirectPass is a new password management solution designed to organize and manage passwords. DirectPass provides consumers with a fast and efficient way to manage their online activities, while offering extra security measures – such as keystroke encryption - to keep their credentials safe.Œ Trend Micro DirectPass uses cloud technology to sync online credentials across multiple devices, allowing users to experience the benefits of DirectPass anytime, anywhere. The average online user has multiple accounts; however, the majority of people fail to manage their passwords in a secure manner.Œ According to a recent Trend Micro survey, 75 percent of consumers have 10 accounts or more, yet only 20 percent say they use third-party software to manage their passwords. “We know that most security threats arise when passwords are forgotten or because users try to remember them by writing them down or worse, making them weak in order to easily commit them to memory,” said Carol Carpenter, general manager of Trend Micro’s consumer group. “With the introduction of DirectPass, Trend Micro’s goal is to lower users’ risks of running into malicious intent by heightening the security of their passwords in an easy way that also doesn’t interfere with their day-to-day digital life.” Tim Falinksi, Director of Consumer Retail, Trend Micro ANZ, said: “Passwords are a major vulnerability in our digital lifestyle.Œ With keystroke encryption, encrypted storage, and secure password generator, DirectPass boosts security while taking the pain out of having multiple passwords.” The features of DirectPass include:</p> An encrypted storage location for online login credentials Protection against keylogging malware A secure password generator An automatic form-filler One-click login A place to securely store confidential notes A secure browser for when you visit banking and financial websites Automatic synching of your login information across multiple devices Automatic self-learning to support more complicated and multi-layer login websites Browser add-ons to enhance accessibility and manageability <p> Identity theft continues to grow - one of the best ways to prevent identity thieves from accessing private accounts and personal information is to only use strong passwords with multiple letters, characters and numbers. “We know there’s a need to protect consumers from ID theft, which continues to be one of the most widespread Internet threats,” adds Ms Carpenter. “DirectPass is our commitment to providing consumers with a preventative measure to help avoid these types of threats so they can go online and conduct their business with confidence.” Australian pricing and availability The premium version of DirectPass will be available in all authorized retail stored as a hard bundled BONUS with every purchase of Titanium Internet Security & Maximum Security starting from May. In addition, a free version (up to five passwords) can be downloaded online. The premium version, which includes support for unlimited passwords, is available online for A$19.95 for a 1-year subscription.Œ More information can be found at <a href="http://www.trendmicro.com.au/au/directpass " target="_blank">www.trendmicro.com.au/au/directpass</a></p> Mon, 16 Apr 2012 15:48:53 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/16/article/Australian-appliance-brand-Hotpoint-goes-into-voluntary-administration/FSDILUJZXD.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/16/article/Australian-appliance-brand-Hotpoint-goes-into-voluntary-administration/FSDILUJZXD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Australian whitegoods and seasonal appliance manufacturer Hotpoint has gone into voluntary administration, following weeks of industry speculation surrounding the company’s future.</p> <p> The company went into administration on Wednesday 11 April, appointing Jirsch Sutherland accountants as administrators for the business. Since then, the office has all but shut down, with calls placed to the company head office and service hotline going unanswered.</p> <p> Hotpoint’s website is still active, though there is no notification to consumers or retailers about the administration. Of the five authorised state sales agents listed on the website, three were listed with incorrect or disconnected phone numbers. Comment has been sought from the remaining two sales agents.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Andrew Bobb, a representative fromŒJirsch Sutherland, confirmed that the company went into administration last week, and that staff and creditors had been informed and given a notice of meeting. Bobb was unable to provide further information on the reasons behind the collapse, the nature of employee entitlements following the fallout or the future of the company.</p> <p> Bobb said that althoughŒhe did not know the reasons why the company went into voluntary administration, he assumed they were “economic” in nature. He confirmed that more information would be available “in due course”.</p> <p> Current has learned that staff members were given little notice about the fate of the business, with some reportedly finding out about the proceedings on the day the company appointed the administrator, despite allegations that the company had “known about it for months”. Œ</p> Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:18:43 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/16/article/Olympus-celebrates-its-pedigree/AGGRJLXMSR.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/16/article/Olympus-celebrates-its-pedigree/AGGRJLXMSR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Olympus has gleefully announced the tenth anniversary of its arrival in the Australian market, thanking one and all for their continuing support of the digital imaging brand.</p> <p> “Ten years in Australia is a great celebration for Olympus,” said Olympus Imaging Australia MD, Marc Radatt. “We are pleased to be a mainstay in the digital imaging industry, and I’d like to thank our customers and retailers for their support and passion for the Olympus brand.</p> <p> “Olympus prides itself on constantly charting new technological frontiers, to give consumers and professionals alike exciting new camera products to capture their world.”</p> <p> In its own celebration of sorts, Undercurrent thought it fit to share this retro Olympus ad from the UK, celebrating the company’s Trip range of cameras. Originally produced in 1965, the final Trip series camera was released in 2000.</p> <p> It’s nice to know that the 'professional endorsement of a consumer product' angle is one that has been used successfully for so long.</p> <p> </p> Mon, 16 Apr 2012 12:24:25 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/16/article/Despite-poor-performance-Harvey-Norman-wont-leave-Ireland-CEO/EQGCUILXKU.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/16/article/Despite-poor-performance-Harvey-Norman-wont-leave-Ireland-CEO/EQGCUILXKU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> The head of Harvey Norman's Irish subsidiary has announced that the company has no plans to exit the Irish market, despite the company reporting a €23.3 million loss for the last financial year.</p> <p> In the company’s audited financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2011, which were submitted to the Irish Companies Registration Office this month, Harvey Norman Ireland reported a pre-tax loss of €23.3 million, which was down from a loss of €31.3 million in the previous financial year.</p> <p> According to the directors’ report, “this was due to the continuing difficult retail trading environment caused by tough economic conditions and continued lack of consumer confidence.</p> <p> “Consumer spending remained flat and continued government austerity measures have resulted in structural weakness in the domestic economy, and the retail sector in particular,” the report read.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Speaking to the <a href="http://www.independent.ie/business/irish/harvey-norman-committed-to-ireland-despite-further-losses-3080800.html" target="_blank">Irish Independent newspaper</a>, Harvey Norman Ireland CEO Blaine Callard said he had high hopes for the Irish business, despite recent poor performance and the struggling economy, and that the Irish network of stores had seen “a bit more buoyancy” in recent weeks.</p> <p> “Predicting the Irish economy is very difficult, but we are encouraged that even in difficult times we can achieve loss reduction and revenue growth,” said Callard. “When the economy bottoms out and returns even to some modest growth, we'll be here, and we'll be profitable.”</p> <p> Callard added that the company's committment to Ireland "will not change" and that he hoped the Irish division of Harvey Norman would break even within four or five years, adding to the cautious outlook that was adopted by Harvey Norman’s company directors.</p> <p> “The directors’ key focus going forward is on ensuring that the group takes measures to deal with the continuing recessionary environment, and to focus on continuing to grow market share whilst reducing and controlling costs throughout the business.</p> <p> “Strong roots have been established in the Irish market. The Harvey Norman brand continues to strengthen in Ireland...and is committed to Ireland for the long term.</p> Mon, 16 Apr 2012 11:34:40 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/15/article/Asko-appoints-former-Hagemeyer-employee-to-state-sales-role/ZLZWRNVRWR.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/15/article/Asko-appoints-former-Hagemeyer-employee-to-state-sales-role/ZLZWRNVRWR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Œ</p> <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Asko Appliances Australia has announced the arrival of Garth Hickey to the company, following his appointment as Asko’s new state sales manager for New South Wales.</p> <p> Hickey joined Asko in March following his most recent role at Hagemeyer Brands Australia, where he held the position of national sales manager for the seasonal division and Omega cooking brand.Œ</p> <p> Prior to Hagemeyer, Hickey worked in senior sales and marketing roles at a variety of companies, including director of sales and marketing at Hanimex Australia, and national sales and marketing manager at Ryobi Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: center; "> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(127, 196, 35); vertical-align: baseline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; " target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(127, 196, 35); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; " target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “Garth will be responsible for driving the sales and building the Asko brand,” said Peter Smith, general manager of sales and marketing for Asko Appliances.Œ</p> <p> “Garth is responsible for the NSW Sales team and all Sydney National Accounts. ŒGarth has come from roles where he has successfully achieved these outcomes and we fully expect that through Garth’s efforts, Asko will increase its market share in NSW.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="218" src="/image/Asko_Peter Smith_Garth Hickey.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> General manager of sales and marketing at Asko Appliances Australia,ŒPeter Smith (left)Œwith the company's new state sales manager for NSW, Garth Hickey.</p> Sun, 15 Apr 2012 13:31:00 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/13/article/Sunbeam-issues-statement-regarding-negative-electric-blankets-coverage/TZFXOSUCBF.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/13/article/Sunbeam-issues-statement-regarding-negative-electric-blankets-coverage/TZFXOSUCBF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Sunbeam Australia today asked Current.com.au to publish the following statement in response to a negative story that appeared this week:</p> <p> Sunbeam Australia wishes to assure its customers of its most rigorous safety standards and correct and clarify information that was stated within this story.</p> <p> The story featured a range of products listed as “recent recalls” which included an image of a Sunbeam Electric Blanket with the words “recalled” in red across the product.</p> <p> This voluntary recall was in fact undertaken by Sunbeam almost 10 years ago — in 2003 — in response to a potential heat controller fault in one of its electric blanket products. At the time, Sunbeam was praised by the Office of Fair Trading for its proactive action on this matter.</p> <p> The heat controllers in the previous model of Electric Blankets have not been produced by Sunbeam since 2001-02 and Sunbeam has had no other recalls on electric blankets since this time.</p> <p> Relative to the story, Sunbeam wish to highlight the following:</p> <p> - No research or contact was made by producers with Sunbeam directly or through Sunbeam’s PR agency relative to this story or to any other products. - The story stated the product was a “recent recall”. More than 10 years ago does not constitute “recent” and is misleading to consumers. - The heat controllers in the previous model of Electric Blankets have not been produced since 2001-02. - Sunbeam has had no other recalls of electric blankets since this recall. - The story did not highlight this was a voluntary recall. This was a company initiated action and was praised at the time by key authorities. - Sunbeam’s rigorous safety standards are among the highest in the world and its Electric Blankets carry exclusive SleepPerfect technology featuring nine levels of safety protection. </p> Fri, 13 Apr 2012 15:03:12 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Panasonic-treats-the-hipsters-to-home-theatre-heaven-with-retro-iPad-interfaces/HBXGIYYHWG.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Panasonic-treats-the-hipsters-to-home-theatre-heaven-with-retro-iPad-interfaces/HBXGIYYHWG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent is a hipster at heart, which is best described as someone who "fetishises the authetic", according to Time Out New York scribe Christian Lorentzen. Of course, all the synthesisers, Leica cameras and Nintendo GameBoys in the world alone doesn't qualify one for this esteemed subculture, you also need the perfect mix of modern technology with your retro gadget to truly be up wih the zeitgeist.</p> <p> Luckily, Panasonic is helping out consumers of its new home theatres systems achieve their hipster dreams by including some outstanding retro interfaces on its iPad app.</p> <p> Buy the home theatre, install this app on your iPad and you too will feel supremely cool while watching The Princess Bride...</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/photo 1.PNG" width="400" /></p> <p> I'm livin' in the 70s...</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/photo 2.PNG" width="400" /></p> <p> She's still preoccupied with 1985...</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/photo 3.PNG" width="400" /></p> <p> Tonight I'm gonna party like it's 1999...</p> Wed, 11 Apr 2012 17:11:39 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/13/article/Bosch--Samsung-Mothers-Day-promotions/BELFPJOKJZ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/13/article/Bosch--Samsung-Mothers-Day-promotions/BELFPJOKJZ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> As retailers prepare for Mother’s Day, the promotions continue to come thick and fast. The latest to offer up prizes to consumers is Bosch, which has launched a competition calling on consumers to create their own signature recipe with a Bosch appliance for the chance to win up to $15,000 worth of Bosch Home Appliances.</p> <p> To enter, consumers must purchase a Bosch Kitchen Machine, Food Processor or Hand Blender between 9 April and 18 June 2012, and create a recipe using that applianceŒto enterŒonline. The winner will receive $15,000 of Bosch Appliances, as well as a flight to Sydney to spend a day as Food Editor of Home Beautiful magazine.</p> <p> Working with the food team on the magazine – which is a co-promoter of the competition – the winner will then have their winning recipe photographed. 10 runners-up will also win a Bosch Hand Blender valued at RRP $229.</p> <p> Eligible products for purchase (as provided by Bosch):</p> <p> Kitchen Machines MUM56340AU, RRP $699 MUM52120AU, RRP $549 MUM86A1AU RRP $1099 MUM86R1AU, RRP $1099</p> <p> Food Processors MCM4200AU RRP $249 MCM4100AU RRP $199</p> <p> Hand Blenders MSM7800AU RRP $229 MSM67PEAU RRP $139 MSM6280AU RRP $79</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In other promotion news, Samsung is offering Citibank MasterCard gift cards up to $200 in value with the purchase of selected Samsung refrigerators and washing machines.</p> <p> Consumers who buy one of the selected models before 5 May 2012 can complete an online claim form within 14 days of purchase (and before the competition closing on 17 May 2012) to receive their card.</p> <p> Models eligible for $200 prepaid gift card (provided by Samsung): SRF639GDSS SRF731GDLS SRF801GDLS SRS684GDHSS SRS683GDHLS SRS691GDIS SRS690GDLS SRS713GNIS SRS710GNLS SRS877GDHLS</p> <p> Models eligible for $100 prepaid gift card: SR531EDW SR534EDLS WF1104XAC WD0754W8E WD1102XVM WA5471ABP WA5471ABW</p> <p> Models eligible for $50 prepaid gift card: SR448EW SR449ELS SR509EW SR510ELS WF0754W7V1 WF0854W8E1</p> Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:02:46 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/13/article/Intel-appoints-new-GM-for-Australia-and-New-Zealand-region/NDUBNBRLRK.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/13/article/Intel-appoints-new-GM-for-Australia-and-New-Zealand-region/NDUBNBRLRK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Intel has today announced the appointment of Kate Burleigh to the position of general manager for Australia and New Zealand, replacing outgoing GM Philip Cronin. Cronin will stay with the company following his promotion to director of regional sales and business development for Asia-Pacific.</p> <p> Burleigh comes to the position following 15 years at the company, beginning as a public relations manager and most recently working as national marketing and reseller channel organisation manager for Australia and New Zealand.</p> <p> Prior to this role, she held a variety of marketing management roles, including Asia-Pacific launch manager for Intel Centrino mobile technology.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Outgoing GM Philip Cronin came to the role in 2004 after joining Intel in 1997. According to a spokesperson for the company, Cronin “has earned a reputation for rapidly ramping new technologies and growing PC use in education in Australia and New Zealand.</p> <p> “He is an advisor to the NSW Industry IT Advisory Panel, Chairman of the Australian Information Industry Association, and was named as one of the most influential leaders in ICT in Australia and New Zealand in 2012.”</p> <p> The new appointments are set to take effect immediately.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Intel_Kate Burleigh.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Kate Burleigh will take on the role of general manager for Australia and New Zealand.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Intel_Philip Cronin.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Outgoing GM Philip Cronin has been appointed to director of regional sales and business development for Asia-Pacific.</p> Fri, 13 Apr 2012 09:04:53 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/Retravision-should-learn-from-Bettas-mistakes-claims-ex-member/TKDNRKLQIZ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/Retravision-should-learn-from-Bettas-mistakes-claims-ex-member/TKDNRKLQIZ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> A former Betta Electrical store owner and member of Betta Stores Limited (BSL) has offered a warning to Retravision as it approaches unification.</p> <p> As <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/Retravision-WA-to-take-ownership-of-Perth-store/XUXLEWRMWL" target="_blank">Current.com.au revealed today</a>, Retravision WA is set to take ownership of the member-operated Retravision Rockingham store in Western Australia, currently run by proprietor Greg Tomich, to bring it under company control.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The former Betta proprietor Anthony Cowan, now partner at the Victorian-based Warehouse Sales electrical appliance business, said the move to take ownership of the store was a potentially perilous one for Retravision, which risks making the same mistakes that BSL made before it collapsed.</p> <p> “It’s a case of déjà vu,” said Cowan. “Betta purchased stores with the premise that it protected purchases and held strategic value within the group. Ultimately it helped in the demise of the previous BSL group – a case of narrow thinking with much wider implications.</p> <p> “If the store is commercially viable then why don’t prudent investors take up the opportunity? When will these CEOs stop making decisions with other people’s money and concentrate on core services to the group?</p> <p> “It does not matter whether stores come or go, the whole reason for offering buying services is not to be the retailer yourself. This brings conflict of interest. If the rise of BSR from BSL’s ashes has taught the industry anything, then take note Retravision members.</p> <p> “Can you see NARTA buying individual stores or groups to save face? This group has thrived even with the loss of stores and groups. NARTA remains relevant because of its focus on its core value: providing service, value adding to members and offering a cohesive purchasing model that encourages participation without demanding it.</p> <p> “Even BSR has joined ranks, seeing value in further strengthening its purchasing power for members.”</p> <p> What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments box below.</p> Thu, 12 Apr 2012 16:59:04 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/Ready-and-steady-Breville-now-an-Everyday-TV-Gourmet/VEMIGGMPIU.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/Ready-and-steady-Breville-now-an-Everyday-TV-Gourmet/VEMIGGMPIU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Breville is looking to dominate daytime TV for the next 15 weeks, with the small appliance specialist being featured heavily in the new season of Everyday Gourmet on Channel Ten and affiliates.</p> <p> This program, which is described by Breville as “the number one rating daytime food show of 2011”, is hosted by former MasterChef Australia contestant Justine Schofield. Breville is also a sponsor of Channel Ten’s other popular cooking show Ready, Steady, Cook.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Here’s Breville general manager – marketing Scott Brady:</p> <p> “We were presented with an opportunity that is about product awareness rather than just brand awareness, with unique features of key products actively discussed and showcased on the show,” Brady said. “It allows Breville to be completely integrated with this popular program and show consumers how our products are unique.</p> <p> “Everyday Gourmet allows Breville to engage not only with the viewing audience but also professional chefs. It’s also a platform to launch new products or highlight product features that require more demonstration and explanation than consumers may get in-store or online.</p> <p> “We also show how to use the appliances to create recipes viewers may not have thought possible, for example using a blender to make sticky date puddings.”</p> <p> Everyday Gourmet airs weekdays at 3:30pm.</p> Thu, 12 Apr 2012 13:53:51 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/Panasonic-unveils-new-audio-systems-and-a-home-theatre-soundbar/ZHFSZEXMLJ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/Panasonic-unveils-new-audio-systems-and-a-home-theatre-soundbar/ZHFSZEXMLJ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> In addition to <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Panasonic-launches-23-new-TVs-passive-3D-BigPond-Movies--Quickflix/RRSUOENXAL" target="_blank">unveiling 23 new TVs</a> yesterday, Panasonic Australia also launched its 2012 stereo, home theatre and micro system ranges.</p> <p> There are three new models in Panasonic’s compact stereo system range: SC-HC57DB (RRP $399), SC-HC37DB (RRP $299) and SC-HC27 (RRP $199).</p> <p> The premium unit features a CD player, DAB+ and FM radio, docking for iPhones and iPods, and internet radio. It has 40 watts of output power, AirPlay for wireless playback and can be controlled remotely via an iPhone app. Design-wise, this unit includes a trendy sliding fascia to cover the iDock and maintain a sleek exterior.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/SC-HC57DB Right iPhone.jpg" width="550" /></p> <p> Panasonic's new SC-HC57DB.</p> <p> The SC-HC37DB also has 40 watts of output power, internet radio, a CD player and FM radio, but it doesn’t have AirPlay connectivity.</p> <p> The entry-level SC-HC27 has only 10 watts of power and neither internet radio nor AirPlay. It does have a CD player, FM radio and a dock for iPhones and iPods.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> For the home theatre, Panasonic has a new Soundbar System (SC-HTB550, RRP $599) with 240 watts of output power. This unit can stream audio wirelessly via Bluetooth, has multi-positional speakers and a wireless subwoofer, and can access IPTV features through Panasonic’s Viera Connect service.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/SC-HTB550 Image.jpg" width="383" /></p> <p> Wonderbar! Panasonic's new SC-HTB550 Home Theatre Soundbar System.</p> <p> There are also two new micro systems in the range. The SC-AP01 (RRP $249) is a 10-watt unit with AirPlay and remote iPhone control, while the SC-PMX5DB (RRP $399) has 120 watts of power, a 3-way speaker, USB playback and an iPhone/iPod dock.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/SC-PMX5DB iPhone.jpg" width="602" /></p> <p> The SC-PMX5DB Micro System.</p> Thu, 12 Apr 2012 13:27:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/Retravision-WA-to-take-ownership-of-Perth-store/XUXLEWRMWL.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/Retravision-WA-to-take-ownership-of-Perth-store/XUXLEWRMWL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> The recently announced supergroup Retravision Australia is set to take ownership of the Rockingham Retravision store in Perth from the start of May.</p> <p> In an email to Retravision members, company CEO Paul Holt confirmed the move, which will see the south Perth store shift from private proprietorship to company ownership effective 1 May 2012.</p> <p> “As part of our continuing business development strategy, we have negotiated an opportunity to take ownership of the Rockingham Retravision business and add this store to our existing managed group of Perth Metro stores (Cannington and Mandurah) under the control of Mike Jeffrey,” said Holt.</p> <p> “This acquisition will take place at the beginning of May 2012 and Rockingham Retravision will convert to a managed store under the control of Retravision (WA) Ltd with effect from Tuesday 1 May 2012.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Current.com.au contacted the present proprietor of the Rockingham shopfront, Greg Tomich, to comment on the news. While Tomich confirmed that he would remain store proprietor until the changeover, he refused to speak further.</p> <p> Retravision Australia CEO Paul Holt has been contacted for comment.</p> Thu, 12 Apr 2012 12:45:41 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/One-Direction---too-cool-for-an-iPhone-Certainly-too-cool-for-Nokia/TEICOLZDRQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/12/article/One-Direction---too-cool-for-an-iPhone-Certainly-too-cool-for-Nokia/TEICOLZDRQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> They may be the coolest young lads on the planet - and definitely right now in Australia - so cool in fact that using a hip handset like an iPhone or a Galaxy SII is just so passe. That's right: Niall, Harry, Liam, Zayn and Louis love nothing more than rockin' a Nokia...</p> <p> </p> <p> Or do they? UnderCurrent did a bit of investigating today and learned that Niall, Zayn, LouisŒand Liam actually use BlackBerrys, while Harry indeed uses an iPhone. So, money well spent Nokia?</p> <p> <img alt="" height="169" src="/image/1DNew Picture (1).bmp" width="494" /></p> <p> <img alt="" height="156" src="/image/1DNew Picture (2).bmp" width="510" /><img alt="" height="178" src="/image/1DNew Picture (3).bmp" width="500" /><img alt="" height="165" src="/image/1DNew Picture (4).bmp" width="512" /><img alt="" height="146" src="/image/1DNew Picture.bmp" width="503" /></p> Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:39:46 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Complete-our-short-survey-for-a-chance-to-win-a-holiday/WTCXBTLNXM.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Complete-our-short-survey-for-a-chance-to-win-a-holiday/WTCXBTLNXM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> WIN a holiday in exchange for just five minutes of your time!</p> <p> Imagine visiting one of 16 Travelodge Hotels, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Rockhampton, Newcastle, PerthŒandŒDarwin in Australia; and Wellington and Palmerston North in New Zealand.Œ That’s what you could be doing -Œjust by completing a short survey about you and your business.</p> <p> The Intermedia Group (publisher of Current.com.au) is conducting a survey, with the aim of obtaining a deeper level of understanding of its readers.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/busines-survey" target="_blank">To complete the survey, click here!</a></p> <p> Travelodge Hotels – Great value, rest assured</p> <p> <img alt="" height="255" src="/image/TRAVELODGE-eNewsletter_image.jpg" width="220" /></p> <p> Travelodge is proud of consistently offering great value in a friendly environment. Whether it’s for a business trip or leisure, our price per room rates offer comfort and quality at unbeatable value. There are currently 16 Travelodge Hotels across Australia and New Zealand in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Rockhampton, Newcastle, Perth, Darwin, Wellington and Palmerston North.Œ For more information about Travelodge Hotels or to book, visit Travelodge Australia or Travelodge New Zealand.</p> <p> For more information on The Intermedia Group, please visit <a href="http://www.intermedia.com.au">www.intermedia.com.au</a>.</p> Wed, 11 Apr 2012 17:24:33 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Panasonic-joins-ANZRP-industry-recycling-program-for-TVs-MD-joins-board/SAVVZLBNHA.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Panasonic-joins-ANZRP-industry-recycling-program-for-TVs-MD-joins-board/SAVVZLBNHA.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Panasonic Australia has today officially announced that it has joined the Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform (ANZRP) to fulfil its TV recycling obligations as laid out in the Product Stewardship Act 2011.</p> <p> Furthermore, Panasonic Australia managing director Steve Rust has been appointed to the interim board of ANZRP.</p> <p> “Panasonic is totally onboard with the Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform,” said Rust in a statement. “We considered the organisation’s transparent and independent operating model, not for profit status and critical mass.Œ</p> <p> “We decided ANZRP offers the best environmental outcomes, management credibility and governance model and I’m delighted to join the interim board.”</p> <p> Panasonic joins <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/HP-partners-with-Australia-and-New-Zealand-Recycling-Platform/HILEQDHENP" target="_blank">HP in membership of the ANZRP recycling program</a>. There are two other providers currently accredited by the Federal Government to recycle TVs and PC hardware: DHL and E-Cycle Solutions.</p> <p> Sony Australia is the only currently announced member of <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/02/article/Sony--DHL-partner-for-TV-recycling-scheme/TMFLXRKNDK.html" target="_blank">DHL’s program</a>, while E-Cycle Solutions has thus far only announced a strategic partnership with electronics retailer Retravision.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In a statement released today, ANZRP general manager Carmel Dollisson welcomed Panasonic to the fold.</p> <p> "We are very pleased to welcome Panasonic as an ANZRP member and to have Steve Rust join our interim board and we welcome Steve’s insight, industry knowledge and support,” Dollisson said.</p> <p> “ANZRP is a product stewardship organisation, that is, we are about ensuring the responsible recycling of end-of-life TVs and computers.Œ The decision about which arrangement to join is beyond price.Œ It’s about meeting strict environmental standards and protecting brand reputation.Œ</p> <p> “Ultimately, it’s about increasing the proportion of e-waste being recycled thus diverted from landfill, and reducing the drain on our natural resources to benefit the environment, our community and our children’s future.”</p> Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:27:56 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Panasonic-launches-23-new-TVs-passive-3D-BigPond-Movies--Quickflix/RRSUOENXAL.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Panasonic-launches-23-new-TVs-passive-3D-BigPond-Movies--Quickflix/RRSUOENXAL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Panasonic Australia today unveiled its 2012 range of plasma and LED LCD TVs, with 23 models across both technologies. Features of selected products include active and passive 3D, improved internet connectivity via Wi-Fi and a greater focus on design.</p> <p> The specialty of Panasonic’s TV heritage has been plasma, with the Japanese company continuing to promote this flat panel technology while its major rivals prefer to push LCD and LED LCD. Panasonic is again reenergising its plasma line-up, with 10 new models ranging from RRP $1,299 up to the premium 65-inch VT50 at RRP $5,999.</p> <p> The VT50 series, also available in a 55-inch model, features vastly improved networking capabilities on last year’s models, including a full web browser, DLNA player and server and access to Viera Connect. Now housing all its apps in the cloud, Viera Connect now enables users to push content to Android and iOS devices live.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Panasonic’s new LED LCD range now includes the company’s first locally released passive 3D TVs, the HD ET5 Series. Available in 42-, 47- and 55-inch options, this Series offers consumers the ‘polarised’ 3D technology that is broadly considered more user-friendly than the active shutter 3D.</p> <p> At the top of Panasonic’s LED LCD collection is the WT50 Series. Consumers can choose between 47- and 55-inch TVs featuring Full HD 3D, 1,600Hz backlight scanning and 3D Real Sound. These TVs also feature the Viera Connect suite of connectivity options.</p> <p> Panasonic confirmed that a select number of TVs from its 2011 range will be receiving firmware upgrades over the Internet in the coming months. This will allow these models to receive a greater range on IPTV functions than available at launch.</p> <p> One of these is BigPond Movies, with Telstra and Panasonic co-announcing this partnership this morning. Quickflix is also on board; giving consumers are wide range of film and TV content to stream on their TVs and various price points. These two services join ABC iView, Yahoo!7, social network sites, YouTube and interactive games on the Viera Connect Platform.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Web Browser Image.jpg" width="450" /></p> <p> A happy family enjoys the full web browser on a new Panasonic TV.</p> <p> Panasonic’s 2012 TV Range</p> <p> Plasma</p> <p> VT50 Series (Full HD 3D Neo Plasma) – June 2012</p> <p> TH-P65VT50A (65 inches) – RRP $5,999 TH-P55VT50A (55 inches) – RRP $3,799</p> <p> ST50 Series (Full HD 3D Neo Plasma) – April/May/June 2012</p> <p> TH-P65ST50A (65 inches) – RRP $3,999 TH-P60ST50A (60 inches) – RRP $2,799 TH-P50ST50A (50 inches) – RRP $1,749</p> <p> UT50 Series (Full HD 3D Plasma) – April/May/June 2012</p> <p> H-P60UT50A (60 inches) – RRP $2,499 TH-P55UT50A (55 inches) – RRP $1,999 TH-P50UT50A (50 inches) – RRP $1,399</p> <p> XT50 Series (HD 3D Plasma) – April 2012</p> <p> TH-P50XT50A (50 inches) – RRP $1,199</p> <p> U50 Series (Full HD Plasma) – June 2012</p> <p> TH-P50U50A (50 inches) – RRP $1,299</p> <p> LED LCD</p> <p> WT50 Series (Full HD 3D LED LCD) – June 2012</p> <p> TH-L55WT50A (55 inches) – RRP $3,499 TH-L47WT50A (47 inches) – RRP $2,849</p> <p> DT50 Series (Full HD 3D LEC LCD) – June 2012</p> <p> TH-L55DT50A (55 inches) – RRP unavailable TH-L47DT50A (47 inches) – RRP unavailable</p> <p> ET50 Series (Full HD LCD LED) – April 2012</p> <p> TH-L47ET50A (47 inches) – RRP $2,049 TH-L42ET50A (42 inches) – RRP $1,649</p> <p> ET5 Series (HD 3D LED LCD) – April/May 2012</p> <p> TH-L55ET5A (55 inches) – RRP $2,399 TH-L47ET5A (47 inches) – RRP $1,749 TH-L42ET5A (42 inches) – RRP $1,399</p> <p> E5 Series (Full HD LED LCD) – April 2012</p> <p> TH-L42E5A (42 inches) – RRP $1,099 TH-L32E5A (32 inches) – RRP $799</p> <p> X50 Series (HD LED LCD) – April 2012</p> <p> TH-L32X50A (32 inches) – RRP $699</p> <p> X5 Series (Full HD LED LCD) – June 2012</p> <p> TH-L24X5A (24 inches) – RRP $489</p> Wed, 11 Apr 2012 14:44:46 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Outlook-not-so-good-Sony-profit-slump-to-be-greater-than-expected/QGTMTMYNWO.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Outlook-not-so-good-Sony-profit-slump-to-be-greater-than-expected/QGTMTMYNWO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Just one day after <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/Samsung-predicts-a-noteworthy-doubling-of-profits/UGGLCGTIZF.html" target="_blank">Samsung announced stellar profit expectations</a> for the first quarter of 2012, Sony has revised its financial estimates for the year ended March 2012, projecting a “net income (loss) attributable to Sony Corporation’s stockholders” of 520 billion yen (AUD $6.27 billion).</p> <p> Whereas Samsung has predicted profits to double 2011 figures, Sony’s estimates represent almost double the loss of income, year on year.</p> <p> In a statement released on the company’s global website today, Sony announced a one off non-cash tax expense of 300 billion yen. This caused the company to revise its February net income expectations from a loss of 220 billion yen.</p> <p> While the company’s expected income before tax is unchanged from February estimates of a 115 billion yen loss, this represents a sharp decline from the actual figures of a year before (fiscal year ended March 2011) when the company reported a positive income before tax of 205 billion yen.</p> <p> Similarly, the net loss on income that Sony is predicting is even more staggering than the 259 billion yen loss from the same period the year before.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> According to the Sony company statement, the additional 300 billion yen tax expense “is a non-cash charge and does not have any impact on Sony’s consolidated operating income (loss) or cash flow.</p> <p> “Due to the recording of this additional tax expense, net loss attributable to Sony Corporation’s stockholders is expected to be significantly greater than the February forecast," the statement read.Œ"As of April 10, 2012, no revisions have been made to consolidated sales, operating income (loss) and net income (loss) before taxes in the forecast announced on February 2, 2012.”</p> <p> Sony’s actual results will be released on 10 May 2012.</p> Wed, 11 Apr 2012 13:15:50 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/LG-appoints-new-head-of-Mobile-Communication/IQEOLPBFQE.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/LG-appoints-new-head-of-Mobile-Communication/IQEOLPBFQE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Following the February appointment of a new managing director for the company’s Australian and New Zealand subsidiaries, LG Electronics Australia has announced the appointment of Ben Glimmerveen as head of the Mobile Communication category.</p> <p> Mr Glimmerveen brings with him more than 10 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, including his most recent stint as LG Australia’s key accounts manager for Telstra, a position he has held since October 2010.</p> <p> Prior to joining LG, Glimmerveen worked in the UK in various senior account management and consumer sales roles.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “I am looking forward to leading LG Electronics’ Mobile category into an exciting period where innovation in both technology leadership and design will enable us to drive significant growth and incremental sales to Operators and retail partners,” said Glimmerveen.</p> <p> The managing director of LG Australia, Deok Hyeon Moon, was also positive about the Mr Glimmerveen’s appointment.</p> <p> “We are pleased to have a new leader in place to drive our innovative Mobile product pipeline in 2012 and beyond,” said Moon. “With such extensive experience in the industry, we are certain Mr Glimmerveen will make a positive contribution to strengthening the category’s market share here in Australia.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="363" src="/image/Ben Glimmerveen LG MC(2).JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> LG Australia's new head of Mobile Communications, Ben Glimmerveen.</p> Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:22:40 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Smeg-partners-with-Designer-Boys-for-clean-and-sleek-renovation/QLUAMZNTXS.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Smeg-partners-with-Designer-Boys-for-clean-and-sleek-renovation/QLUAMZNTXS.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Reality television cooking programs and renovation shows have been a windfall for appliance companies, offering brands the opportunity to associate themselves with the image of the ideal home.</p> <p> Now Smeg is basking in a little of that reflected glory, thanks to a new partnership with the self-styled “Designer Boys” Gavin Atkins and Warren Sonin, winners of the 2003 season of the popular TV home makeover show The Block.</p> <p> With experience furnishing and styling more than 750 properties, Atkins and Sonin have chosen Smeg as the major kitchen appliance supplier for their new project in the Byron Bay Hinterland.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “We fell in love with the aesthetics of Smeg’s Linear collection on first sight and were familiar with the performance of the brand from previous experience,” said Atkins. “The styling of each appliance is artfully clean and sleek so we wanted to present them within the kitchen rather like artworks in a gallery.</p> <p> “Some of the appliances cleverly conceal the messier aspects of a kitchen’s role – the 90-centimetre wide STH903 dishwasher is fully integrated so it looks just like a kitchen cabinet while the LQVN862-1 stainless steel sink features two sliding black glass work surfaces that completely conceal the double sinks when not in use.</p> <p> “At a purely practical level we had to choose our appliances carefully.Œ Neither of us are terrific cooks so we were looking for appliances that delivered consistently good results while ‘guiding’ us through the whole process,”ŒAtkins added. “Smeg Linear delivered handsomely in this respect.Œ</p> <p> “The oven has Smart Chef technology so will advise on temperature and cooking times for various dishes and even recommends the correct shelf position!Œ The coffee machine does a similar thing – we simply programme the strength, length and temperature of the coffee we like and it does the rest.Œ It gives us perfect coffee every time.”</p> <p> The Atkins and Sonin used a range of Smeg appliances in the 120-year old farmhouse, including ovens, cooktops and a new dishwasher.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="244" src="/image/SMEG_Designer Boyz-Smeg-G&W-LS-2.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Gavin Atkins and Warren Sonin with the Smeg appliances in their new kitchen.</p> Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Dick-Smiths-1-Sale-Retailer-offers-apology-with-gaming-discounts/LVHYONGQLK.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/11/article/Dick-Smiths-1-Sale-Retailer-offers-apology-with-gaming-discounts/LVHYONGQLK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Following a bungled sale at the beginning of the month which saw disgruntled consumers walking away empty handed, Dick Smith has extended its “Game On” gaming sale. The retailer came under fire after details of a sale were allegedly leaked online.</p> <p> “We understand a certain amount of misinformation was published online last week that led some customers to believe certain products were on sale when they were not or they were a different discount,” saidŒ<a href="http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/technology/gaming/dicked-off-customers-furious-at-dick-smiths-7m-game-sale-scam/story-fn6saqys-1226316539362" target="_blank">Dick Smith acting general manager, David White, last week</a>.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The Dick Smith sale was re-advertised in catalogues released today, and notice was given to customers in a short statement on the Dick Smith website.</p> <p> “Due to the unauthorised leaking of an internal price list last week, our Game On Sale has exceeded expectations,” the statement read. “As our Game On Sale continues this week, we would like to inform our customers that stock is selling faster than expected.</p> <p> “We thank you for your patience and continued support and apologise for any inconvenience caused.</p> <p> “As a gesture of goodwill in addition to the Game on Sale event we will now be offering extend the offer to include 30% off gaming software and accessories until Sunday 15 April. Please note that this excludes all gaming consoles, digital cards & already advertised catalogue lines in our Game On brochure (11/4 – 23/4/12).”</p> <p> The catalogue advertising the sale showed a range of discounted products – including games, accessories and consoles – with some titles up for as little as $1.</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/image/Dick Smith Sale Catalogue P1.bmp" /></p> <p> <img alt="" height="365" src="/image/Dick Smith Sale Catalogue P2.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Dick Smith has advertised a range of products in an online catalogue.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="168" src="/image/Dick Smith Nintendo DSi.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> One of the discounted products on offer is the Nintendo DSi XL, selling for $40.</p> Wed, 11 Apr 2012 11:24:58 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/Betta-puts-on-a-new-facebook-page/UPDLXRPTSN.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/Betta-puts-on-a-new-facebook-page/UPDLXRPTSN.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Nine months after launching its dedicated e-commerce venture, Betta Electrical has joined the social media revolution with a new <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BettaAU" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>.</p> <p> The page has 250 ‘likes’, though it is only early days (for Betta at least) with the company officially going online at the start of last month. Since then, the retailer has posted its company history on the Facebook timeline, as well as a range of shots from the company’s “new look in-store”.</p> <p> However, Betta still has a way to go – the company currently has a stronger Facebook presence for its individual stores, including the Ingham Betta Electrical which outstrips the national page in the number of likes.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Betta Instore 1.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> The new store livery includes a range of eye-catching (and Donna Summer-themed) displays.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="244" src="/image/Betta Instore 2.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Betta now offers the option of invoices sent via email.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="316" src="/image/Betta Instore 3.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> More bright colours in-store.</p> Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:40:48 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/HP-partners-with-Australia-and-New-Zealand-Recycling-Platform/HILEQDHENP.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/HP-partners-with-Australia-and-New-Zealand-Recycling-Platform/HILEQDHENP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Hewlett-Packard Australia has become the latest consumer electronics company to officially confirm its involvement in the Federal Government’s product stewardship initiative, partnering with the Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform (ANZRP) for its e-waste recycling commitments.</p> <p> Speaking about the new arrangement was Richard Bailey, HP Australia vice president, Imaging and Printing Group, South Pacific.</p> <p> “HP is totally committed to the Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform,” said Bailey. “We believe ANZRP offers the best environmental outcomes and a lean and transparent operating model to meet our needs.”</p> <p> “We are very pleased to welcome HP as the first of a series of members to join ANZRP with others to be announced shortly,” added ANZRP general manager Carmel Dollisson. “We are very grateful for their considerable ongoing support over several years.</p> <p> “E-waste will be collected, handled and recycled in accordance with environmental standards locally and internationally,” she said. “Where possible, dismantling, processing and recycling will take place within Australia and even when processed overseas it will meet with these standards.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Like other organisations such as logistics company DHL, ANZRP is an approved organisation under the Federal Government’s National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme, which aims to increase the recycling rate of e-waste such as computers and televisions to 80 per cent by 2020-21.</p> <p> “Under ANZRP’s service, the community gains free and more extensive access to permanent e-waste collection sites and improved access to collection events in regional and remote areas.</p> <p> “ANZRP will run free e-waste collection events and operate e-waste drop off sites for households and small business nationally from July 2012.Œ These locations will give the public reasonable access at metropolitan, outer metropolitan, regional and remote areas.” Œ</p> Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:06:17 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/Retravision-QLD-members-leave-for-Betta-pastures-online-growth-ahead/SKRCQOTYWG.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/Retravision-QLD-members-leave-for-Betta-pastures-online-growth-ahead/SKRCQOTYWG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Several former Retravision Queensland members left that buying shortly before the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/12/23/article/Unification-of-Retravision-crucial-to-survival-new-CEO/MWBLDFOIAQ.html" target="_blank">unification announcement</a> to join Betta Electrical, part of the rival Narta Group. This is one of several revelations by the proposed CEO of the new Retravision Australia, Paul Holt, in an exclusive interview with Appliance Retailer magazine.</p> <p> “There are a small number of members who have made that decision some months ago in the Queensland business,” Holt told Appliance Retailer. “Quite frankly, that decision had been taken by the people involved prior to our unification announcement and that’s their call.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Holt also said that although Retravision would be one of the last retailers to launch online sales, he did not think this development would be too little too late.</p> <p> “Given the brand heritage of our business, given the spread of our business, given the fact we’ve still got the buying power of a $1 billion organisation, our view is absolutely not [too late to launch].</p> <p> “Our view is we’ve still got a really good opportunity to add a point of difference to our business that will delight our customers in a way that others have started to do. I don’t think we’re too late.</p> <p> “If you look at how ill-developed the online business is in Australia today, it’s nowhere near where it’s arrived in Europe, for instance, or the States. We still see a very, very big opportunity.”</p> <p> The full interview with Paul Holt is in the April issue of Appliance Retailer magazine. </p> Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:51:56 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/Samsung-predicts-a-noteworthy-doubling-of-profits/UGGLCGTIZF.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/Samsung-predicts-a-noteworthy-doubling-of-profits/UGGLCGTIZF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Samsung Electronics has announced its earnings guidance for the first quarter of 2012, with the Korean electronics company predicting a year-on-year doubling of profits.</p> <p> Samsung has estimated an operating profit of approximately 5.8 trillion Won (AUD $4.9 billion) for the January to March 2012 period, a staggering increase on the 2.95 trillion Won figure reached during the same period in 2011.</p> <p> In addition, the company announced expected sales of approximately 45 trillion Won (AUD $38.3 billion) for the quarter, which is also a significant 20 per cent increase on the 2011 figure of 36.99 trillion Won.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The 2012 figures represent median estimates taken from an approximated range. However, despite the margin for error, the figures show undeniable growth for a company that was until recently locked in a lengthy legal battle with one of its main competitors.</p> <p> Following the resolution of litigation between Samsung and rival Apple, the company has seen the successful release of theŒdelayed Galaxy Tab 10.1, as well as a follow up tablet, the Galaxy Tab 8.9 4G. Unlike Apple’s newest product,ŒSamsung's 8.9-inch tablet is 4G by name and 4G by spectrum capabilities.</p> <p> Most recently, Samsung has launched its new phone-tablet hybrid (complete with stylus) known as the Galaxy Note.</p> <p> Samsung confirmed that the company’s full earnings results “will be disclosed after the B.O.D's [Board of Directors’] approval of 12.1Q financial statements and quarterly reports”.</p> <p> Watch this space...</p> Tue, 10 Apr 2012 13:27:20 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/Pangoo-now-Pan-gone-after-THTF-Australia-closes-down/XROMZNILMI.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/10/article/Pangoo-now-Pan-gone-after-THTF-Australia-closes-down/XROMZNILMI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> THTF Australia Pty Ltd, the local importers of the Pangoo brand of flat panel TVs, has withdrawn from the Australian market due to lack of profitability.</p> <p> This withdrawal occurred in early 2012, with an industry source telling Current.com.au that it was due to company being “unprofitable”.</p> <p> Although Pangoo’s website is still online, it has not been updated since 2009. All the contact phone numbers have been disconnected. The website still lists <a href="http://au.pangoo.com/themes/au/ds.html" target="_blank">a large number of dealers</a> as carriers of Pangoo products, though none of the retailers Current.com.au contacted claimed to have stocked Pangoo products.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The offices of THTF Australia, in Alexandria in Sydney, were shared with a sister company called THTF Australia Mining. This company continues to operate out of these premises.</p> <p> The Pangoo brand was named after a creation story in Chinese mythology. According to legend, Pan Gu created the world with the help of a turtle, a dragon, a phoenix and a qilin (which is a mythical creature formed by merging a dragon with a tiger and unicorn). THTF anglicised the name Pan Gu to create Pangoo for foreign markets. Œ</p> Tue, 10 Apr 2012 11:56:29 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/Trend-Micro-to-bundle-DirectPass-password-manager-with-retail-security-products/NGGTUILVEW.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/Trend-Micro-to-bundle-DirectPass-password-manager-with-retail-security-products/NGGTUILVEW.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Trend Micro, the US security company known for its love of the Wests Tigers, has announced it will be bundling its new DirectPass password management product in with retail sales of its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/08/24/article/Retail-focus-for-new-Trend-Micro-Android-and-PC-security-products/SERDFKQMCG" target="_blank">Titanium Internet Security and Maximum Security products</a>, starting from May 2012.</p> <p> DirectPass is a software product that saves user’s passwords for all the different websites that require logins. Examples include, Google, Facebook, Twitter, Dropbox, banks, airlines and even the Wests Tigers website.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Once you’ve saved all your existing passwords – plus any new ones you set up – you only to remember one password, that of your DirectPass facility, to enter these websites.</p> <p> Some of the features of DirectPass include protection against keyloggers, encrypted storage location and automatic synching across multiple devices.</p> <p> "We know that most security threats arise when passwords are forgotten or because users try to remember them by writing them down or worse, making them weak in order to easily commit them to memory," said Trend Micro GM Carol Carpenter.</p> <p> "With the introduction of DirectPass, Trend Micro's goal is to lower users' risks of running into malicious intent by heightening the security of their passwords in an easy way that also doesn't interfere with their day-to-day digital life."</p> <p> For consumers wanting to purchase DirectPass as a standalone product, it can be downloaded for $19.95 for a one-year subscription. Œ</p> Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:50:42 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/Pure-brings-digital-radio-out-of-our-dreams-and-into-our-car/NUQXGSMUTK.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/Pure-brings-digital-radio-out-of-our-dreams-and-into-our-car/NUQXGSMUTK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> While DAB+ has found success thanks to more and more consumers buying digital radios for their homes, “car is the next wave of digital radio”. That’s according to Peter Blampied, director of sales for digital radio brand Pure (UK).</p> <p> While Blampied identified areas such as content and coverage as important issues facing the rollout of digital radio (not only in Australia but across the world), bringing devices to the car is an important step in increasing the take-up of this new technology.</p> <p> Pure has now begun to address this problem with the Australian launch of its second In-Car Digital Radio and Audio Adapter solution, the Highway 300Di, which features full iPod, iPhone, iPad and USB Control.</p> <p> Distributed by Pioneer Electronics Australia, the in-car device is set to arrive on market in May for an RRP of $499. According to Michael Broadhurst, digital and DJ product marketing manager at Pioneer, the new radio is set to change the way Australians enjoy digital radio.</p> <p> “This product addresses a part of the market that Pure wasn’t addressing and a part that many brands believe they’re addressing but aren’t really,” said Michael Broadhurst. “32 per cent of people listen to radio in the car, so it’s a prime listening position and digital radio needs to be in the car.</p> <p> “If you look at a lot of the solutions that are coming out, they’re quite expensive – it can be up to $900 for an install in a premium car. For the average punter, they want digital radio, but why should they have to upgrade their existing stereo if they’re happy with? They want this extra feature and they should be able to buy it as an add-on.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Aside from providing in-car DAB reception thanks to the active aerial, the Highway 300Di also features direct input to the user’s car radio for a stronger signal and dual digital tuners that ensure users can listen to a station while the device scans for new stations to update its lists.</p> <p> The Highway has new features such as the ability to pause and rewind live digital radio, and it can be used for the playback of music from an iPod, iPhone, iPad or USB music device such as an MP3 player.</p> <p> The three components of the device (a main unit, detachable controller with OLED display and aerial) are designed to be professionally installed. In light of this, Pioneer intends to partner with the dealer AutoXtreme to bring the device into car dealerships, as well as distributing the Highway through specialty car accessory retailers.</p> <p> Broadhurst said that these channels represented a “good opportunity” for Pioneer to bring the Pure message into the right parts of the market.</p> <p> “We looked at JB Hi-Fi, but JB’s car audio business is particularly strong in the $300 and below category, so for them at this stage it was probably too much of a premium product,” he said. “So it didn’t really suit their business model.</p> <p> “But we think the Highway 300Di will be a huge product for Pure, it’s certainly already been very popular in the UK, and I think the more success we have over here, the more people that will be interested in trying to get their hands on the product.</p> <p> “It’s a refreshingly new solution for the marketplace.”</p> Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:09:53 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/Full-text-of-Apples-email-to-potentially-disguntled-new-iPad-4G-consumers/BKHPTMHKFL.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/Full-text-of-Apples-email-to-potentially-disguntled-new-iPad-4G-consumers/BKHPTMHKFL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Under the terms of its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/29/article/Apple-agrees-to-refunds-and-speed-concessions-court-dates-set/PNESHZUQCE" target="_blank">undertakings to the ACCC to offer refunds</a> to new iPad Wi-Fi + 4G consumers, Apple Pty Ltd agreed to send an email to all customers (for whom it had email addresses) notifying them of the availability of refunds.</p> <p> Here is the complete text of the email Apple is sending to consumers:</p> <p> Dear iPad owner,</p> <p> Thank you for purchasing the new iPad with built-in Wi-Fi and support for connecting to fast cellular data networks. Please note the following information about the Wi-Fi + 4G model:</p> <p> •ŒThis product supports very fast cellular networks.</p> <p> •ŒIt is not compatible with current Australian 4G LTE networks and WiMAX networks.</p> <p> •ŒFast cellular networks supported include HSPA, HSPA+ and DC-HSDPA. If you purchased your iPad on or before 28 March 2012 on the basis that it would work with the current Australian 4G LTE networks or WiMAX networks, you may return your undamaged iPad for a full refund before 25 April 2012. Return Process</p> <p> Please follow these steps if you wish to return your iPad for a full refund:</p> <p> 1.ŒPlace the undamaged iPad, power adapter and USB cable into the original packaging (if available) accompanied by your original receipt or gift receipt.</p> <p> 2.ŒReturn the iPad, included accessories and receipt to the original point of purchase: •ŒApple Retail Store •ŒApple Online Store •ŒApple Authorised Reseller •ŒOptus, Telstra or Vodafone Australia</p> <p> 3.ŒInform the seller that you purchased the iPad on the basis that it was compatible with current Australian 4G LTE networks or WiMAX networks. If you have a data plan for your iPad, please contact your wireless provider for information on how to cancel or reset your service agreement.</p> <p> Thank you for being an Apple customer.</p> <p> Apple</p> Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:01:25 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/JB-Hi-Fi-chairman-steps-down-after-12-years-at-the-company/IWHZNOGBHM.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/JB-Hi-Fi-chairman-steps-down-after-12-years-at-the-company/IWHZNOGBHM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi has announced the retirement of the chairman of theŒcompany board, Patrick Elliott, after almost 12 years at the company. Elliott will retire from the positions of chairman and non-executive director on 31 May 2012, and will be replaced by current board member Greg Richards.</p> <p> Appointed as a director in July 2000, Elliott has spent more than 10 years as the company’s chairman, during which time the JB Hi-Fi shifted from private ownership to becoming a publically-listed company.</p> <p> Speaking about the outgoing chairman, JB Hi-Fi CEO Terry Smart said, “Patrick has made a significant contribution to JB Hi-Fi’s success over the past 12 years.</p> <p> “Patrick’s guidance and counsel to the executive team have been invaluable during this period. On behalf of all the JB Hi-Fi staff, I thank Patrick for his work with JB Hi-Fi and wish him all the best in his future endeavours. I look forward to working with Greg in his new role as chairman.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Incoming chairman Greg Richards was similarly positive about Elliott’s role in transforming JB Hi-Fi over the years.</p> <p> “On behalf of the Board I would like to thank Patrick for the excellent guiding role that he has played since the listing of JB Hi-Fi on ASX; his contribution has been a very positive influence on the growth and performance of the company,” said Richards.</p> <p> “We wish Patrick all the best for the future. I am very much looking forward to taking on the role of chairman of the board and continuing Patrick’s good work.”</p> Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:30:48 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/RIM-appoints-new-managing-director-for-Australia--NZ-BlackBerry-business/YUQMTAVOPE.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/05/article/RIM-appoints-new-managing-director-for-Australia--NZ-BlackBerry-business/YUQMTAVOPE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> After several months without a managing director, Reserach in Motion ANZ, manufacturer of the BlackBerry brand of smartphones and tablets, has appointed Ray Gillenwater, formerly of RIM Philippines, as its new MD.</p> <p> Gillenwater replaces Adele Beachley, who left abruptly at the turn of the year.</p> <p> “There is a fantastic opportunity for BlackBerry in Australia and New Zealand’s thriving smartphone market," said Gillenwater.Œ"I look forward to working with our partners and talented internal teams to focus on our business strategy with an immediate emphasis on preparing for the highly anticipated BlackBerry 10 launch.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> After a very successful start to life in Australia, the BlackBerry handset has struggled for relevance as the iOS and Android platforms have grown significantly. Once the jewel in the BlackBerry's crown, push email is now available on every smartphone and tablet, and with BlackBerry not investing sufficiently in multimedia functionality, its marketshare has been squeezed down to mostly corporate customers and consumers who specifically desire a QWERTY keyboard.</p> <p> "Ray has a proven track record, having played an active role in the development and growth of some of RIM’s strongest markets in South East Asia," said RIM Asia Pacific senior vice president Urpo Karjalainen.Œ"His leadership will be instrumental in driving the next stage of our business growth in Australia and New Zealand."</p> <p> <img alt="" height="451" src="/image/6900476878_ecc0602182_b.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> New RIM ANZ MD Ray Gillenwater.</p> Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:41:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/Kensington-launches-productivity-peripherals-for-smartphones-and-tablets/OXZAZKZALJ.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/Kensington-launches-productivity-peripherals-for-smartphones-and-tablets/OXZAZKZALJ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Kensington today launched its range of smartphone and tablet peripherals, with a focus on improving productivity and organisation among users.</p> <p> "Organising is the most interesting subject in the world," said Sarah Cottman, VP of the Australasian Association of Professional Organisers and keynote speaker at the launch.</p> <p> "I have ADHD and I'm married to a man with ADHD and we have three kids with ADHD, so you're in safe hands," she said, highlighting her credentials in being able to organise a family that presumably is both short on attention and high on hyperactivity.</p> <p> "Executives lose about six weeks per year looking for stuff, which raises the question of how professional executives could be. A disorganised person doesn't know where to start," she said.</p> <p> So how can a Kensington peripheral make someone more organised and productive? To show that one of these products, such as the new KeyFolio Pro 2 Universal Bluetooth Keyboard for smartphones and tablets, is an advantage in business or not, this reporter is writing this story on that keyboard on his iPhone 4S live and the launch.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Without doubt, my productivity is being improved because I'm achieving my central goal as a journalist - to write stories - much faster than I would be had I either had to tap thjs out on the phone's touchscreen keyboard or was waiting to get back to the office to write it on my PC.</p> <p> As far as convenience goes, rather than having a notebook PC on the table while listening to Cotter's presentation and eating lunch, I need only space for my iPhone and the keyboard, which is smaller than the plate that was previously occupying this space.</p> <p> This model keyboard can connect to any Apple iOS product or Android phone or tablet via Bluetooth. There is no power lead, with recharging of the keyboard only available via MicroUSB. The keyboard has all 26 letters, 10 integers and the 12 Function keys, as well as Tab, Caps Lock, Shift, the cursor keys, Enter, Backspace, Delete - essentially all the major keys we use on a traditional keyboard. Strangely, although the Shift + 3 key is labeled as being the hash, it actually produces the pound sterling symbol (£), which makes Tweeting with the keyboard virtually impossible.</p> <p> "You can type much faster on a keyboard than you can a phone or tablet," said Kensington manger - marketing and business development, Sam Goldstein.</p> <p> "There are three words on all our packaging: 'smart, safe, simple'. Kensington has been around for 30 years; there aren't many peripheral companies that have been around that long.</p> <p> "We want to really press that smart, safe, simple message right through the channel.</p> <p> "Not everything is the same for every person: not everyone likes typing on a keyboard, some people like typing on a touchscreen, so we have different products for diffeent people on different platforms.</p> <p> "People like different platforms, so we have products for smartphones and tablets from different manufacturers."</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/a39383 Kefolio Universal SIDE ANGLE WITH TABLET.jpg" width="379" /></p> <p> The Kensington KeyFolio Pro 2 Universal, which the reporter used with an iPhone 4S to file this story.</p> Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:26:00 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/Our-five-biggest-stories-from-our-biggest-ever-month/SAPAZAZYSE.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/Our-five-biggest-stories-from-our-biggest-ever-month/SAPAZAZYSE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> March 2012 was a record month for Current.com.au, with our highest ever number of unique views and page visits. From here on, at the start of each month, we’ll look back on what the most read stories were from the previous month.</p> <p> Here are Top 5 most read Current.com.au stories for March 2012:</p> <p> 1. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/02/article/Dick-Smith-fell-but-how-the-mighty-Masters-has-risen-for-Woolworths/QATYFDPLHS" target="_blank">Dick Smith fell, but how the mighty Masters has risen for Woolworths</a></p> <p> Despite announcing that it would be spending $300 million to officially extricate itself from the failed Dick Smith electronics franchise, Woolworths Limited has found success elsewhere, reporting stellar sales for its home improvement/appliance retail offering, Masters.</p> <p> 2. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/26/article/Sony-confuses-and-delights-with-new-Xperia-S-smartphone/JMFSJAGMHH" target="_blank">Sony confuses and delights with new Xperia S smartphone</a></p> <p> We were confused and delighted when Sony announced the launch of the new Xperia S mobile handset...</p> <p> 3. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/07/article/Apple-launches-new-sort-of-4G-iPad---How-it-unfolded-Minute-By-Minute/XDNLEUHEGH" target="_blank">Apple launches new sort-of 4G iPad - How it unfolded: Minute By Minute</a></p> <p> We were up at 4:30am to cover the launch event for the new iPad live. An excerpt from 5:50am: “New iPad is a great name for the device. The numbers work well while still low, but once you get up high it's too hard to keep track of and there are too many negative connotations. The second iteration - iPad 2, Galaxy Tab 2, Xoom 2 - is the best as there is a lot of goodwill around second instalments (like The Godfather Part II). Has there ever been a good third, fourth, fifth instalment of anything? New iPad works well until this time next year, when Apple launches the Post Modern iPad.”</p> <p> 4. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/26/article/Telstra--Samsung-team-up-to-launch-new-Galaxy-S-II-4G-smartphone/HYGZYMCSLF" target="_blank">Telstra & Samsung team up to launch new Galaxy S II 4G smartphone</a></p> <p> The 4G evolution has continued with Telstra and Samsung jointly launching the new Galaxy S II 4G smartphone. This is Samsung’s first 4G LTE smartphone and its second device overall, after the launch of the Galaxy Tab 8.9 4G.</p> <p> 5. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/28/article/Asus-Technology-taking-industry-veteran-and-ex-employee-Marlene-Gant-to-court/HFGKCQVCVZ" target="_blank">Asus Technology taking industry veteran and ex-employee Marlene Gant to court</a></p> <p> Asus Technology Proprietary Limited is taking former employee Marlene Gant to the New South Wales Supreme Court on a matter relating to her two year employment with the Taiwanese computer company’s Australian subsidiary.</p> <p> If you are not already a subsriber to Current.com.au, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" target="_blank">click here to sign up</a> - it's free! And <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter!</a></p> Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:29:56 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/Philips-promotes-new-juicer-with-lessons-from-the-Juice-Master/ICVJHZKKQH.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/Philips-promotes-new-juicer-with-lessons-from-the-Juice-Master/ICVJHZKKQH.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Philips held the official launch of the new QuickClean Juicer in Sydney this morning, bringing out celebrity "juice master" Jason Vale to show off the product.</p> <p> Known as “the Jamie Oliver of juicing,” Vale has written 7 books on healthy living and juicing (which have sold a total of 2.5 million copies worldwide), and has been working with Philips for over a decade to promote the company’s range of juicers.</p> <p> As well as promoting his books and Turkish health retreats, Vale showed off the new product and its QuickClean benefits, which he said was a major positive in the design of the machine.</p> <p> “The thing that people usually complain about more than anything else when it comes to juicing is the cleaning,” said Vale. “Philips has listened – it now takes less than a minute to clean your machine.</p> <p> “I’m passionate about juicing – I juice two or three times every day and I need a machine that will take the job on.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="text-align: center; padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-left-width: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The new machine can make up to 2.5-litres of juice in one go, and features an extra-large feeding tube, 2 juicing speeds, and an upside down quick-clean sieve that can be cleaned in as little as one minute.</p> <p> “Delivering more juice without the additional hassle, the Philips QuickClean Juicer not only helps to encourage a healthier lifestyle, it is also very convenient thanks to its simplicity of use and ease of cleaning,” said Joanne Bainy, kitchen appliances marketing manager for Philips Australia and New Zealand.</p> <p> There are two models of QuickClean Juicer available in a brushed metal finish (HR1871, RRP $249.95) and a black finish (HR1869, RRP $179.95).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="293" src="/image/Philips QuickClean Juicer_1.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Jason Vale compares the health benefits of fresh apple juice to the store-bought product.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="333" src="/image/Philiips QuickClean Juicer_2.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Philips launched the new machine at the well-known Sydney grocer and foodie destination, Fratelli Fresh. </p> Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:02:04 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/George-Clooney-drinks-decaf/NNDXSIWBNY.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/George-Clooney-drinks-decaf/NNDXSIWBNY.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> There are two things UnderCurrent loves: Coffee and Clooney. One of them is a silky smooth pick-me-up in the morning and great end to a pleasant evening while the other is hot beverage brewed from roasted beans.</p> <p> Once again merging UnderCurrent's loves is Nespresso, which has this new TVC to promote their capsule coffee system. Unlike UnderCurrent, which needs as much caffeine as possible to function, George can apparently write, direct and star in a blockbuster film without any kicker...</p> <p> </p> Wed, 04 Apr 2012 10:26:44 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/Nespresso-outlines-marketing-campaign-for-new-Maestria-machines/NLOPOAHBVY.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/Nespresso-outlines-marketing-campaign-for-new-Maestria-machines/NLOPOAHBVY.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Nespresso Australia and its manufacturing partner De’Longhi last night hosted its retail partners at The Ivy in Sydney to celebrate the launch of the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/05/article/Be-the-barista-with-Nespressos-first-new-models-of-2012-Maestria-range/AVXZZOEXYO" target="_blank">new Maestria range</a> of portioned coffee machines. This was latest in a series of nationwide trade events to mark this release.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Nespresso 004.jpg" width="400" /></p> <p> Guests from the major retailers enjoyed coffee martinis while relaxing in The Ivy penthouse.</p> <p> The prevailing mood at the event last night was decidedly optimistic, with small appliance buyers from major retailers saying these machines would form a central part of their Mother’s Day product offering. To stimulate foot traffic and encourage sales, Nespresso commercial manager John Ciaglia outlined what he called a 360-degree marketing plan for the machines.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In above the line promotion, Nespresso will once again be showcasing its Academy Award winning spokes-actor/director/writer/coffee lover George Clooney, who has filmed <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/04/article/George-Clooney-drinks-decaf/NNDXSIWBNY.html" target="_blank">a new TVC to promote the Nespresso lifestyle</a>. This ad will run for three weeks in the lead-up to Mother’s Day. Nespresso will also be running a lifestyle print campaign during this period.</p> <p> As previously noted on Current.com.au, NespressoŒis relaunching its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/14/article/Coffee-machine-kindness-Nespresso--Jura-launch-Mothers-Day-promotions/JFITPLATAK.html" target="_blank">wildly successful cashback offers</a>, with $75 back on both new machines (there’s also $75 back on the Lattissima range and $50 back on all other machines).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/roundbanner_back(1).jpg" width="301" /></p> <p> An example of the Nespresso cashback POS material.</p> <p> Finally, in below the line activity, Nespresso will be conducting in-store training, demonstrations and will be engaging bloggers and influencers to spread the word online and in print.</p> <p> “The Maestria is all about sharing the art of the barista,” said Ciaglia. “The inspiration for the Maestria came from a lot of timeless pieces from yesteryear, products that had an iconic and retro design, and those that resembled luxury — the ultimate in luxury. This machine ticks those three boxes.”</p> <p> And here are the two machines:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="447" src="/image/NESPRESSO_DELONGHI_MAESTRIA_CREMA_ESPRESSO_CAPSULES(1).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Nespresso Maestria (RRP $749).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="301" src="/image/Gran Maestria Platinium with espresso PNG(1)(1).png" width="300" /></p> <p> Nespresso Gran Maestria (RRP $899).</p> Wed, 04 Apr 2012 10:02:15 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/RBA-leaves-rates-on-hold-as-retailers-see-modest-boost-in-sales/DTTFRCFHKH.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/RBA-leaves-rates-on-hold-as-retailers-see-modest-boost-in-sales/DTTFRCFHKH.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> The Reserve Bank of Australia announced it would keep the official cash rate on hold at 4.25 per cent today, stating that “with growth expected to be close to trend, inflation close to target and lending rates close to average,” the RBA’s position on monetary policy remains unchanged.</p> <p> “Recent information is consistent with the expectation that the world economy will grow at a below-trend pace this year, but does not suggest that a deep downturn is occurring,” said the governor of the RBA, Glenn Stevens.</p> <p> “In Australia, growth in domestic demand ran at its fastest for four years in 2011, driven by private spending,” he said. “Nonetheless the balance of recent information suggests that output growth was somewhat below trend over the year.</p> <p> “There are differences in performance between sectors, and considerable structural change is occurring. Labour market conditions softened during 2011, though the rate of unemployment has been little changed for some time.</p> <p> “At today’s meeting, the Board judged the pace of output growth to be somewhat lower than earlier estimated, but also thought it prudent to see forthcoming key data on prices to reassess its outlook for inflation, before considering a further step to ease monetary policy.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="text-align: center; padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-left-width: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In other economic news, the Australian Bureau of Statistics released Retail Trade figures for February 2012, noting a modest rise in retail turnover.</p> <p> “The seasonally adjusted estimate for Australian turnover rose 0.2 per cent in February 2012 following a rise of 0.3 per cent in January 2012 and a relatively unchanged December 2011 (0.0 per cent)," said a spokesperson.</p> <p> In terms of specific categories, the ABS also noted that “the seasonally adjusted estimate...rose for Electrical and electronic goods retailing (1.6 per cent)” in February 2012.</p> <p> (As a brief background, the ABS states in its methodology that: “Seasonal adjustment allows for and removes the regular, reoccurring influences that could distort the short term view of what is happening. For example, retail sales figures are always larger in December due to Christmas so the spike in retail spending is smoothed out.”)</p> <p> <img alt="" height="189" src="/image/ABS Retail Trade.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> A graph showing retail trade turnover between February 2010 and February 2012.</p> Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:55:53 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/Canon-Magellan-and-Lowepro-enticing-the-adventurous-astrophotographer/SZWZHNDADP.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/Canon-Magellan-and-Lowepro-enticing-the-adventurous-astrophotographer/SZWZHNDADP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Canon, Magellan and Lowepro have all introduced some new gear today, with outdoor astronomy photographers the big winners from these releases.</p> <p> At Canon, there’s the new EOS 60Da DSLR camera, which is being specifically targeted at astrophotography enthusiasts. This camera has an 18MP CMOS sensor, DiG!C 4 image processor and a 3-inch swivelling LCD screen.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> "The EOS 60Da takes Canon's industry-leading sensor technology and pushes it even further to allow the accurate capture of red nebulae and other astronomical sights," said Canon EOS assistant brand manager Rebecca Pearson. “By combining superior sensitivity with very low noise, enthusiasts will be able to produce astrophotography images with more detail and colour accuracy than has previously been possible, allowing them to become even more deeply immersed in their hobby and satisfied with their end results."</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/K353_07_CA.jpg" width="464" /></p> <p> The Canon EOS 60Da is available from 19 April 2012.</p> <p> So you don’t get lost whilst capturing beautiful images of the Taurus constellation, Magellan has released the eXplorist 110 outdoor GPS. This unit is RRP $149 and it’s targeted at “those who enjoy leisure activities including hiking, cycling and camping”.</p> <p> “The eXplorist 110 provides essential information people need to make the most of their outdoor activities and helps users feel safer to explore and enjoy nature,” said Paris Basson from Magellan Australia. “For example, one of the model’s most handy features is a breadcrumbs option that allows users to keep track of their steps and backtrack so they are able to return to their base camp safely and keep a record of where they have travelled.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="492" src="/image/eXplorist 110.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Magellan eXplorist 110Œ(RRP $149).</p> <p> And to keep cameras and handheld GPS devices safe and secure, Lowepro has two new camera gear backpacks, the Flipside 500 AW (RRP $249) and the Photo Traveler 150 (RRP $89).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="406" src="/image/Lflipside500aw_front_pocket.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Lowepro Flipside 500 AW (RRP $249).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="357" src="/image/phototraveler150_front_pocket.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Lowepro Photo Traveler 150 (RRP $89).</p> Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:47:24 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/How-Apple-and-the-major-retailers-have-responded-to-ACCC-iPad-4G-demands/SLZESHSZIB.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/How-Apple-and-the-major-retailers-have-responded-to-ACCC-iPad-4G-demands/SLZESHSZIB.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> It's been one week since <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/29/article/Apple-agrees-to-refunds-and-speed-concessions-court-dates-set/PNESHZUQCE" target="_blank">Apple Pty Ltd promised to provide notification</a> on its website as to the lack of 4Gness of its new iPad. Apple has delivered, updating its website to include the prescribed text, as have several of its authorised resellers.</p> <p> Here is Apple's notification which, to be fair, is positioned on its website so that it will almost certainly be read before a purchase is completed:</p> <p> <a href="http://store.apple.com/au/browse/home/shop_ipad/family/ipad/select_ipad" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="306" src="/image/AppleNew Picture.bmp" width="681" /></a></p> <p> And this is how JB Hi-Fi advises its consumers (astute readers will note discounts of up to $5 on some of these models):</p> <p> <a href="http://www.jbhifi.com.au/computers/apple-ipad-new/?utm_source=adserver&utm_medium=banner-828x282-JB_AU_20120316_apple_ipad_828_282_828.png&utm_content=JB-AU-Home%2BPage-Content%2BHomepage%2B%232&utm_term=Home%2BPage&utm_campaign=Apple%2B-%2BGeneric" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="194" src="/image/JBNew Picture (1).bmp" width="811" /></a></p> <p> And at Harvey Norman:</p> <p> <a href="http://www.harveynorman.com.au/promos/the-new-ipad?intcmp=HNAU-5739" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="33" src="/image/HNNew Picture (2).bmp" width="428" /></a></p> <p> Big W:</p> <p> <a href="http://www.bigw.com.au/electronics/ipad/new-ipad/bpnBIGW_0000000304106/the-new-ipad-wi-fi-4g-64gb-black-or-white" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="54" src="/image/BWNew Picture (3).bmp" width="659" /></a></p> <p> Interestingly, there is no mention of this text on Woolworths' stablemateŒDick Smith Electronics' <a href="http://dicksmith.com.au/offer/thenewipad" target="_blank">dedicated iPad webpage</a>.</p> <p> At direct importer Kogan.com.au, the iPad Wi-Fi + 4G is referred to as The New iPad (Mobile Broadband), which is either much clearer or even more confusing, depending on your perspective. Kogan's disclaimer is typically amusing:</p> <p> <a href="http://www.kogan.com.au/shop/new-ipad-64gb-4g-white/" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="93" src="/image/KoganNew Picture (4).bmp" width="469" /></a></p> Tue, 03 Apr 2012 13:37:11 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/HTC-launches-the-power-of-One-X/GNRMQNLPQG.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/HTC-launches-the-power-of-One-X/GNRMQNLPQG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Forget phone calls – modern consumers will tell you that today’s smartphones are all about offering media playback and online connectivity alongside traditional mobile phone functions.</p> <p> HTC is certainly singing from the same hymn sheet with the launch of its newest device – the HTC One X smartphone – which it says offers “the most personalised user experience with an amazing camera and authentic sound”.</p> <p> As HTC Australia and New Zealand country manager Ben Hodgson attests, images and music are the order of the day with the One X.</p> <p> “We are extremely proud to launch the HTC One X as the first device from the HTC One series,” said Hodgson. “The HTC One X delivers on its promise of a truly personal experience.Œ It’s so easy to get all your tunes from your music library into the one place. The authentic sound quality with Beats Audio now extends to enhance the sound from YouTube videos, movies and games.Œ</p> <p> “The camera is genuinely amazing.Œ You can access it from the lockscreen in under a second and shoot 99 continuous shots at 4 frames per second so you never miss an important moment.Œ It also delivers the highest quality images in any light conditions.</p> <p> “Powered by our first quad-core processor, multi-tasking is smooth and there is even a 5th energy-saving core to improve battery life.”</p> <p style="text-align: center; padding-bottom: 10px; border-right-width: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: rgb(255,255,255); text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(34,34,34); border-left-width: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="text-align: center; padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-left-width: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> So what’s going on behind the scenes to bring this “truly personal experience” to users?</p> <p> In terms of visuals, the One X features a 4.7-inch Super LCD touch screen with HD 720p display (1280 x 720 resolution). It features an 8 megapixel rear-facing camera with auto focus, LED flash, “BSI sensor for better low-light captures,” and 1080p video shooting, as well as a 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera with 720p video.</p> <p> The One X also has a 1.5 GHz quad core processor with an integrated fifth “Battery Saver Core” and a 12-Core NVIDIA GPU, we well 32GB of storage and 1GB of RAM.</p> <p> While the phone is not billed as a 4G device, it does have a selection of new perks such as NFC capability and Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) with HTC Sense 4, as well as HTC’s Beats Audio sound enhancement (which was also seen on the HTC Sensation XE & XL).</p> <p> The device weighs in at 130 grams (with battery) and measures 13.4 x 7 x 0.9 centimetres. It is available for $0 upfront on the $59 Optus Cap Plan, for $0 on Vodafone’s $59 plan and for $0 on Virgin Mobile’s $59 Fair Go Plan.</p> <p> Current.com.au will be at the official launch of the One X tonight – stay tuned for more updates, and don’t forget to <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>.</p> <p> Œ<img alt="" height="233" src="/image/HTC_ONE_X_3v_Sydney FINAL.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> The new HTC One X.</p> Tue, 03 Apr 2012 13:02:39 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/Morphy-Richards-promo-lets-consumers-rule-the-rainbow/HVEPGXCBWP.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/03/article/Morphy-Richards-promo-lets-consumers-rule-the-rainbow/HVEPGXCBWP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Morphy Richards is getting savvy with social media for its latest consumer promotion, offering punters the opportunity to vote for their favourite coloured kettle and toaster set, with the winning colour to be released as a special edition product to retail stores.</p> <p> By entering the competition, consumers will also have the opportunity to win one of 100 matching toaster and kettle sets, valued at RRP $259.90.</p> <p> Morphy Richards has set up a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MorphyRichardsAU" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> to promote the campaign, where users are asked to rank the four colours on offer – Oasis Green, Lemon Yellow, Citrus Orange and Cyan Blue – and explain in 25 words or less how ‘a splash of colour would liven up their kitchen’.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In a relatively new step for the appliance trade, Morphy Richards will also create colour-themed boards on the social networking image site Pinterest.</p> <p> “Pinterest is a pin board-styled social photo sharing website,” said a Morphy Richards spokesperson. “It allows users to create and manage theme-based image collections allowing users to aspire to purchase Morphy Richards products for their home.</p> <p> “The site’s mission statement is to ‘connect everyone in the world through the things they find interesting’. The website has proven especially popular among women.”</p> <p> “For the Colour Your Morning Promotion , we will create a board for each of the four colours, collating designs and images that showcase the particular colour.”</p> <p> The promotion runs between 2 April and 16 April 2012. For full terms and conditions, see the <a href="https://morphyrichards.gingermelbourne.com/colouryourmornings/terms.html" target="_blank">Morphy Richards website</a>.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="291" src="/image/kettle_toaster.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> ThereŒare four Morphy Richards colours to choose between.</p> Tue, 03 Apr 2012 09:31:36 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/02/article/Polaroid-taking-its-cameras-back-to-Point-Break-beach/EWFZHSODMA.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/02/article/Polaroid-taking-its-cameras-back-to-Point-Break-beach/EWFZHSODMA.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent was pleased to read that iconic instant camera brand Polaroid will this weekend use the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach to introduce its new hybrid digital/instant camera, the 14MP Z340, to the world’s leading surfers and their fans.</p> <p> “With 51 of the world’s best surfers and crowds of more than 30,000 expected, Polaroid is to capture and share the moment throughout the event,” said the announcement.</p> <p> “A team of roving ambassadors will be taking images of both surfers and spectators throughout the contest using the new Polaroid Z340 camera and instant printer.Œ All instant images, complete with Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach banner commemorating the event, will be handed out to spectators.Œ</p> <p> “Hundreds of images will also be instantly uploaded from the Z340s to Rip Curl and Polaroid social media sites.Œ Visitors to these sites will be directed to retailers of the Polaroid range of products.”</p> <p> This announcement reminds UnderCurrent of Polaroid's halcyon days, whichŒwere recordedŒfor posterity in this absolutely outstanding spot from the glory days:</p> <p> </p> <p> And while we are introducingŒsome of our younger readersŒto the classics, here is Hollywood's take onŒthe famous Bells Beach break:</p> <p> Œ</p> Mon, 02 Apr 2012 14:53:59 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/02/article/Panasonic-Microwaves-get-an-added-gift-for-Mothers-Day/UAKZPFANCX.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/02/article/Panasonic-Microwaves-get-an-added-gift-for-Mothers-Day/UAKZPFANCX.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Panasonic has announced its Mother’s Day promotion for 2012, offering a Tupperware gift with purchase with selected Panasonic Inverter Microwave models.</p> <p> Consumers who purchase one of seven inverter microwaves between 1 April and 15 May 2012 will receive a bonus Tupperware pack valued at RRP $65 via redemption.</p> <p> Speaking about the promotion was Nicolas Cauzac, product marketing manager - microwaves, Panasonic Australia.</p> <p> “Given last year’s outstanding success, we have re-introduced the popular Bonus Tupperware gift with every selected Inverter microwave sold,” said Cauzac.</p> <p> “Panasonic’s Inverter Microwaves are a fantastic addition to the home.Œ With Genius Sensor Cooking technology for quick and easy meal preparation they are a wonderful gift to share with the whole family this Mother’s Day.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The promotion will be further supported in-store by point of sale materials, and all the terms and conditions (including cut off dates for redemption claims) can be found on the <a href="http://www.panasonicpromotion.com.au/mumsday/" target="_blank">Panasonic Australia website</a>.</p> <p> List of Inverter model microwaves eligible for gift with purchase (provided by Panasonic): - NN-ST557W - NN-SF550W - NN-ST641S - NN-ST651S - NN-ST671S - NN-ST680S - NN-SD691S Œ</p> Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:45:12 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/02/article/Digital-radio-goes-gaga-as-more-Australians-buy-up-and-tune-in/IKMLVXCWLY.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/02/article/Digital-radio-goes-gaga-as-more-Australians-buy-up-and-tune-in/IKMLVXCWLY.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Digital radios saw their highest sales jump to date during the last Christmas and New Year sales period, according to new data from Commercial Radio Australia (CRA).</p> <p> In its findings, the CRA reported that a total of 180,546 digital radio devices were sold between October 2011 and January 2012. In addition, the CRA found that close to 1.2 million Australians in the five mainland state capitals are listening to digital radio every week.</p> <p> The Digital Radio Industry Report 2012 was released by CRA today, and is the third report of its kind compiled by the industry group, which includes polls from Nielsen and consumer electronics market research from GfK.</p> <p> (Article continues below graphs.) <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Page-11-bar-and-line-graphs-bottom-right.jpg" width="490" /></p> <p> This chart shows that the ASP of DAB+ receivers has only dropped by $4 over the last 18 months.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Page-13-colour-line-graph-top-right.jpg" width="441" /></p> <p> Two-and-a-half years into DAB+ sales and the technology is experiencing faster take-up than several key benchmarks.</p> <p> Speaking about the results was the chief executive of CRA, Joan Warner.</p> <p> “Digital radio sales and listening have increased despite one of the worst retail climates for decades,” said Warner. “The commercial radio industry has invested in the promotion of digital radio and worked very hard with retailers.Œ</p> <p> “We’ve put our money where our mouth is and used our medium to tell our listeners about digital radio. Once again, results highlight just how well radio works.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; font-size: 13px; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; outline-width: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The research in the report found that 9.4 per cent of all radio listeners (1.2 million people) listened to DAB+ radio each week, which was up from 400,000 listeners from the same period in 2011. In addition, listeners are spending an average of 12 hours and 20 minutes tuning in to DAB+ every week, “an increase of almost 8 hours since digital radio listening was first surveyed in 2009”.</p> <p> The CRA report also predicts that digital radios will be in 16 per cent of households by December 2013, and 18 per cent of households by June 2014.</p> <p> “While the latest market summary information is very pleasing, the overall aim of the industry is to ensure digital radio is available in all areas of Australia,” said Warner. “Extensive work is also underway on the planning for digital radio rollout to regional Australia and proposed timelines are being developed for discussions with the Federal Government.”</p> Mon, 02 Apr 2012 11:21:19 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/02/article/Sony--DHL-partner-for-TV-recycling-scheme/TMFLXRKNDK.html http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/02/article/Sony--DHL-partner-for-TV-recycling-scheme/TMFLXRKNDK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> The international logistics company DHL has announced that it will be partnering with Sony Australia to provide collection and recycling services as part of Australia’s National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme.</p> <p> Today’s news comes less than a month after <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/03/07/article/DHL-logistics-gets-on-board-Television--Computer-Recycling-Scheme/PWFGABMYAV" target="_blank">DHL confirmed</a> it would participate in the Government- and industry-led product stewardship program, making Sony DHL’s first customer in the scheme.</p> <p> “Sony Australia is pleased to be working with DHL to fulfil its obligations under the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme” said the director of Sony Australia, Nicholas Foster.Œ “Sony Corporation takes its environmental commitments very seriously and we are encouraged that a local recycling scheme will soon be underway.”</p> <p> “This project is ground breaking for Australia,” added Terry Ryan, CEO of DHL Supply Chain South Pacific. “For DHL and its existing product offering, it marks a new direction in business.</p> <p> “DHL is pleased to be working with existing customer Sony Australia towards achieving the national recycling target of 80 per cent by 2021; expanding and adding value to a relationship that commenced 25 years ago.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="padding-bottom: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-left-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; border-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> According to DHL, the supply chain arm of the company will provide “a comprehensive solution to Sony Australia which will include the collection and recycling of all television and electronic equipment”.</p> <p> More of these collection services are expected to roll out of the coming two years, as the Federal Government looks to work with industry to expand collection “across metropolitan, regional and remote areas of Australia by the end of 2013,” according to the <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/settlements/waste/ewaste/index.html" target="_blank">Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities</a>.</p> <p> TheŒDepartment's aims for the scheme are to, “Reduce the amount of television and computer waste (particularly hazardous waste materials) for disposal to landfill; increase recovery of resources from end-of-life television and computer products in a safe, scientific and environmentally sound manner; and ensure national coverage and fair and equitable industry participation in the scheme”.</p> <p> The Department has identified “importers of televisions, computers, printers and computer products and domestic manufacturers of televisions, printers and computer products” as parties that have legal obligations to be involved in the product stewardship scheme.</p> <p> These “liable parties” are then required to enter into arrangements, such as the partnership between DHL and Sony, that will see the recycling and recovery of television and electronic products.</p> Mon, 02 Apr 2012 10:32:34 +1000