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/2013/05/21/article/Kmart-recalls-electric-air-pump-due-to-severe-shock-risk/ZHVQXZQQNY.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/Kmart-recalls-electric-air-pump-due-to-severe-shock-risk/ZHVQXZQQNY.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Kmart has recalled a 240-volt electric air pump, designed for domestic use, due to a fault that may cause severe electric shocks.</p> <p> The Jackeroo AC 240 Volt Air Pump (APN 9300803840195) was supplied by Powerlite Industry Ltd and sold in Kmart stores nationally between 1 March 2008 and 10 May 2013.</p> <p> According to a notice published on the ACCC recall website, “some pumps have internal damage to the electrical insulation in the cord that is not always visible [and] pumps exhibiting the defect can result in severe electric shocks”.</p> <p> Consumers are advised to immediately cease using the product and return it to any Kmart store for a full refund. Kmart customer service can be contacted on 1800 124 125, Monday to Friday between 8am and 5pm, or by visiting <a href="http://www.kmart.com.au">www.kmart.com.au</a>.</p> Tue, 21 May 2013 15:15:26 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/Furniture-the-standout-as-Radio-Rentals-reports-strong-results/WVDZWXXFKX.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/Furniture-the-standout-as-Radio-Rentals-reports-strong-results/WVDZWXXFKX.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Thorn Group Limited, parent company of Radio Rentals, today announced its full year results for the 12 months to 31 March 2013, reporting a 7.9 per cent increase in total revenue, up to $203.2 million and a 0.6 per cent increase in net profits up to $28 million.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Speaking about the results was Thorn Group managing director, John Hughes.</p> <p> “Thorn’s core Radio Rentals business continues to demonstrate its strength and resilience in the market and it has been an outstanding performer in recent years compared to other retailers,” said Hughes.</p> <p> “This provides a very stable platform for investment in initiatives as we develop into a broader based financial services organisation and see other segments increase their contributions, particularly once they achieve the all-important critical mass.</p> <p> “Thorn’s performance remained strong given ongoing challenges in the market with low levels of consumer confidence as they continue to be impacted by cost of living increases, particularly utility costs, along with uncertainty generated by the upcoming Federal election.”</p> <p> The company cited the “successful introduction of Apple products” as one of the key factors behind Radio Rentals’ performance, with installation dues increasing by 6 per cent over the past year. The technology category as a whole, which accounts for 43 per cent of Radio Rentals’ installations, was steady. The furniture category was highlighted as being “the standout product group” of the Radio Rentals business.</p> <p> Thorn Group also introduced a “hardship contract” to “assist customers during a time of need”, while the rental provider is also considering a 48-month “Rent, Try, $1 Buy” contract to meet growing demand for larger products and whole room packages.</p> <p> In a similar vein, Thorn Goup launched a trial of a new “Rent Drive Buy” car rental business in February of this year. Described as an initiative that “offers customers an opportunity to rent a quality vehicle on a fully maintained basis, with the potential to obtain finance for purchase after a year of continuous payments,” the Rent Drive Buy program is set to be reviewed in the first half of the 2014 financial year.</p> Tue, 21 May 2013 10:13:56 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/Sunbeam-and-Breville-competing-to-catch-the-MICE-crowd/TUGGHYLDNI.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/Sunbeam-and-Breville-competing-to-catch-the-MICE-crowd/TUGGHYLDNI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> The Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE), being held from Thursday 23 May to Sunday 26 May 2013, will see a highly charged, caffeinated battle of the brands as Sunbeam and Breville compete for the attention of coffee snobs, coffee lovers and coffee casuals.</p> <p> Sunbeam is a platinum sponsor of MICE while Breville is simply an exhibitor. While that appears to give Sunbeam the upper hand, Current.com.au understands that Breville is planning some big announcements to steal some of this thunder.</p> <p> Sunbeam has long been considered the market and mindshare leader in manual coffee; a domination that was challenged significantly two years ago when the BES900, a $1,500 machine for the domestic market, was launched by Breville to great worldwide acclaim.</p> <p> John Turnbull, general manager of marketing at Sunbeam, said the famous small appliance brand would be concentrating on the E7000, a machine launched in 2012, while engaging with both coffee professionals and amateurs at MICE.</p> <p> “We hope to offer something for everyone at the Sunbeam stand, from industry right through to home users," he said. "We want to encourage people to come to our stand and host interactive and engaging activities with our audience of retailers, café owners, specialty coffee stores and home users."</p> <p> While Sunbeam is doing this, Breville is planning a big reveal at MICE on the opening day. The tantalising teaser for this new machine focuses on flexibility and convenience, and the removal of at-home coffee compromises.</p> <p> "Until now, you've been asked to choose: difficult but delicious or automatic but average," reads the teaser for what we understand is a world first in the market, assuming our sources prove to be trustworthy oracles.</p> <p> Current.com.au will be reporting live from MICE on Thursday.</p> Tue, 21 May 2013 09:48:12 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/Sunbeam-turning-beds-into-the-Bahamas-in-radio-spot/FZMRIOCHKV.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/Sunbeam-turning-beds-into-the-Bahamas-in-radio-spot/FZMRIOCHKV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Sunbeam is electrifying the airwaves this week to promote its Sleep Perfect heated blanket range, buying media across the leading FM channels in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.</p> <p> The advertisement compares a standard bed to a horror film, contrasting that with the Kokomo-esque tropical beauty of a bed that has been pre-warmed by a heated blanket.</p> <p> The ad will run on 2Day FM, 2WS and Nova in Sydney; Triple M, Mix and Nova in Melbourne; and Mix, Nova and SAFM in Adelaide. The standard campaign length is three weeks, though one station in each market will be playing the ad for six weeks.</p> <p> The premium Sunbeam heated blanket is the Sleep Perfect Wool Fleece range (queensize, BL5651, RRP $349).</p> Tue, 21 May 2013 09:37:29 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/QA-with-James-Dyson-Research-ideas-and-the-treachery-of-copycats/SBCDAPGVCR.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/QA-with-James-Dyson-Research-ideas-and-the-treachery-of-copycats/SBCDAPGVCR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> While James Dyson might be a name associated with vacuum cleaners, the recent launch of the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/02/20/article/Sir-James-Dyson-arrives-in-Australia-to-unveil-new-Airblade-range/NIMQCZKFCV.html" target="_blank">second generation Dyson AirBlade hand dryers and the Airblade Tap</a> proves that the British engineer is far from being a one-trick pony.</p> <p> But before a Dyson product hits the retail floor or the commercial space, what exactly goes on behind the scenes?</p> <p> For this special one-on-one interview, Current.com.au went to James Dyson himself to find out just what goes into making a Dyson product and why he takes it personally when other brands copy his designs.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Current.com.au: What kind of research and funding goes into developing a new Dyson product?</p> <p> James Dyson: People always want the best. It’s why we spend £1.3 million a week on research and development, and we invest for the long run. Our latest digital motor was seven years in the making and a £150 million investment. It was just the starting point for the new Airblade machines.Œ It’s a long slog. We have to make that investment back, so we can continue to plough money back into creating new technology.</p> <p> More importantly, the cost is always a reflection of the development that goes into our machines.Œ Engineers developed over 3,300 prototypes to perfect the tap. Our unforgiving test team simulated hand washing 213 million times. They even doused the machines in chemical mixes and tipped beer over the machines to ensure they can weather even the toughest environment.</p> <p> How do you try to design products so they will stand out for consumers on the retail floor?</p> <p> I’ve never been one to follow the crowd. Dyson was the first to use clear bins on our vacuums — market researches argued with me that people didn’t want to see the dirt, but I trusted my gut. People love to see what they’ve captured whizzing around the bin. Now most cyclonic vacuums use a clear bin. We don’t design machines to stand out, we engineer them to work.</p> <p> Every Dyson product bears your name, so you have to trust the engineers and design teams working to produce them. What do you look for in your staff?</p> <p> Problem solvers. 850 of them work in our Malmesbury research and development lab. I’m searching for 100 more this year. Most of them will be graduate engineers. Fresh young minds are unsullied by other companies’ ways of working and can create exciting new things. I started Dyson with four graduates from London’s Royal College of Art. Now we have specialists working on acoustics, fluid dynamics and a dedicated team over 100 motors engineers working on our own digital motor. It’s an exciting place to work. There are always lots of ideas being discussed and plenty of heated debate.</p> <p> What do you think the floorcare category will look like in 10 years?</p> <p> We don’t try to guess the future at Dyson. Our focus is making technology which simply works better. People don’t want to mess about with gimmicks, they want high performance technology. The latest Dyson digital motor has fully integrated electronics, allowing it to spin at up to 100,000 revolutions a minute. Advances in the technology enabled the cordless vacuum cleaner DC44, and our new Airblade hand dryers. And it will be a core technology for future Dyson machines.</p> <p> Do you take other brands’ attempts to copy Dyson products personally, or is it just business?</p> <p> It’s business for them, personal for me. I love turning new ideas into real technology. Competitors not only copy the design of our machines, but the look and feel of them, too. Some might see it as flattery, I find it treacherous. At Dyson our technology is our lifeblood. Wherever possible we take copycats to court. On Air Multiplier technology alone, we have fought 650 different copycat cases across the world. Our technology is always protected with patents, but frustratingly we don’t win them all.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/James Dyson Airblade motor.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> James Dyson, demonstrating the mechanics of the Airblade motor.</p> Tue, 21 May 2013 09:34:37 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/PlayStation-4-unveiling-is-just-for-the-squares/MPSYUIPTUR.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/21/article/PlayStation-4-unveiling-is-just-for-the-squares/MPSYUIPTUR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent has seen some vague and ridiculous product teaser videos in its time, but this one certainly has to take the cake.</p> <p> When Sony held a <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/02/21/article/Hide-and-seek-Sony-PlayStation-4-offers-more-play-but-scant-details/SHXSAHDDKK.html" target="_blank">high-profile press conference</a> in New York in February to announce new PlayStation news, the thousands of people watching both the event in New York and the live stream online all expected one thing — the unveiling of the new PlayStation 4 console.</p> <p> Instead, there were <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/02/21/article/Inside-the-PlayStation-4-launch-Image-Gallery/ENLADNEWVG" target="_blank">plenty of flashy lights</a>, extended preview scenes from new games and a paltry peek at a new controller...but no big reveal. UnderCurrent assures readers that the press conference made for a very long two hours of anticlimactic viewing.</p> <p> Today UnderCurrent happened upon another video promising the reveal of more PlayStation details at the E3 gaming expo in Los Angeles in June. Excited, we took the bait and had a look at the new video.</p> <p> If Sony’s teaser is anything to go by, the world of gaming is about to get invaded by a swarm of blurry black squares.</p> <a href="http://www.adobe.com/go/getflashplayer"><img alt="Get Adobe Flash player" src="http://www.adobe.com/images/shared/download_buttons/get_flash_player.gif" /></a> Tue, 21 May 2013 09:08:34 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/20/article/The-history-and-future-of-portioned-coffee-QA-with-Lavazza/PDVOEKYTLR.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/20/article/The-history-and-future-of-portioned-coffee-QA-with-Lavazza/PDVOEKYTLR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> While Lavazza has long been a name associated with quality coffee in cafés around the world, the brand is a fairly recent entrant into the world of domestic portioned coffee machines in Australia. But since launching the A Modo Mio portioned system here with Electrolux last year, the brand has not looked back.</p> <p> In Australia recently for the first time in over a decade, the vice president of Lavazza, Giuseppe Lavazza, spoke to Current.com.au about the brand’s history and the rise of portioned coffee around the world.</p> <p> Current.com.au: Tell us about Lavazza's heritage in the portioned coffee category?</p> <p> Giuseppe Lavazza: Lavazza was really pioneering this new category a long time ago. In Italy, a lot of people love to have a good espresso in their office while working. But 20 years ago, you had to call to the closest cafe and the coffee got to your desk cold. So we decided to try to penetrate this office market, but with a top quality product.</p> <p> So we started in 1989 and developed our first system, Espresso Point, and it was very successful. Then in 2002, we launched our second system, Lavazza BLUE, short for Best Lavazza Ultimate Espresso. The second system offered the chance to have self-protecting capsules, so we didn’t need to have an external package to protect it. And this is a system that was established to get in the big vending market</p> <p> C: Vending machinesŒfor coffee?</p> <p> GL: Yes. For example in a lot of the underground stations in Milan, you can have a perfect cup of espresso Lavazza using our BLUE system. With the capsules, the coffee is protected until the moment you decide to have your cup of coffee.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> C: When did you move into domestic portioned coffee?</p> <p> GL: In 2007, we decided to launch a system for households, A Modo Mio. A Modo Mio is the final evolution of the big trend that we started in 1989 — it’s cutting edge. We’re very proud of it because it’s a perfect replication of what you normally get from a professional espresso machine.</p> <p> We put in the A Modo Mio system all the skills that a barista needs to prepare the perfect espresso. So the size of the capsule is optimised for the extraction of the coffee and the quantity of the coffee in the capsule is also very generous. The coffee is tamped into the capsule with the pressure of 300 kilograms, exactly the same move that a good barista does before preparing your espresso, and the coffee is protected under vacuum. We arrived at this point after 20 years of experimentation, working everyday to improve the original system.</p> <p> C: What do you see as the future of portioned coffee in Australia? Will portioned machines ever replace manual or automatic machines.</p> <p> GL: We think that portioned coffee will be more and more important because of the convenience, and the quality. But it’s a different experience. The portioned system is a closed system, so you’re connected to a brand and a certain type of coffee. For this reason, we offer a lot of different blends so you can find the blend you like the most. With beans — also a very important part of our business — you can move from one coffee blend to another, but the equipment is more expensive. It’s a different philosophy.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="358" src="/image/Giuseppe Lavazza.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Fourth-generation member of the Lavazza family and vice president of the family coffee empire, Giuseppe Lavazza.</p> Mon, 20 May 2013 15:10:20 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/20/article/QualiFi-to-merge-with-Audio-Products-Group-creating-AV-brand-powerhouse/ILHBGPJFIZ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/20/article/QualiFi-to-merge-with-Audio-Products-Group-creating-AV-brand-powerhouse/ILHBGPJFIZ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Leading premium audio and hi-fi distributors Audio Product Group (APG) and QualiFi are to merge, effective 1 July 2013, with QualiFi taking the lead in the new entity, with Michael Henricksen continuing as CEO and Ken Dwyer, CEO of APG, invited to join the board of directors.</p> <p> The new QualiFi will house an impressively large array of brands, including Denon, Loewe, AKG, Marantz and Jamo. The new company will initially be run out of APG’s inner Sydney offices while new office space is secured.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In addition to clarifying the new CEO role, QualiFi has confirmed that Philip Hawkins will be the general manager, Ralph Grundl will be in charge of marketing and Steve Gerry will be the national sales manager.</p> <p> All current future warranty obligations for all brands will be assumed by QualiFi.</p> <p> “The combined management and sales teams, together with the broader portfolio of world-renowned brands, will create a very important distribution business in the CE and CI markets in Australia,” said Dwyer and Henricksen in a joint statement.</p> <p> “Both APG and QualiFi share similar business values and culture. Both companies have long histories of success in the Australian AV industry. The purpose of this merger is to create an extremely strong and valued distribution partner for all brands represented across all the various CE and CI sales channels.</p> <p> “The directors and management of APG and QualiFi are confident this merger is an exciting opportunity and is an extremely positive development for our brands, suppliers, customers and staff. We are grateful for past support and look forward to a mutually rewarding future for all stakeholders.”</p> <p> The statement continues to say that APG’s Installed Sound and Pro Audio/Musical Instrument divisions are not included in the merger and that APG retains ownership of this business.</p> <p> Brands subject to the merger, as listed in the joint statement:</p> <p> Denon NAD PSB Loewe AKG (personal audio products) Tannoy (residential products) Niles Elan Sunfire Xantech Marantz Jamo ZVOX Stealth Acoustics MK Forte</p> Mon, 20 May 2013 15:14:41 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/20/article/Miele-co-owner-talks-about-latest-range-coming-at-IFA-2013/JERWVJZEZO.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/20/article/Miele-co-owner-talks-about-latest-range-coming-at-IFA-2013/JERWVJZEZO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Video by James Wells</p> <p> Dr Reinhard Zinkann provides a preview of what the retailers and consumers can expect from Miele at the 2013 IFA exhibition and conference, to be held in Berlin in early September.</p> <p> </p> Mon, 20 May 2013 14:35:27 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/20/article/Harvey-Norman-to-sell-Lismore-property-but-building-plans-are-halted/UDIXXMLCJI.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/20/article/Harvey-Norman-to-sell-Lismore-property-but-building-plans-are-halted/UDIXXMLCJI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Harvey Norman has put its Lismore shopfront up for sale, with the retailer currently on the hunt for a larger location to house its north-eastern New South Wales business. But despite the retailer’s strengths in property, executive chairman Gerry Harvey said the company had a “big incentive not to build anything at the moment” as its retail division has “come to a halt”.</p> <p> The 2,738 square-metre Lismore Harvey Norman, located on 17 Zadoc Street in the centre of Lismore, is <a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-showrooms+bulky+goods-nsw-lismore-500032186" target="_blank">currently listed for sale by North Coast Commercial Real Estate</a>. The store’s furniture and bedding franchisee Bill Kennedy <a href="http://www.coffscoastadvocate.com.au/news/harvey-norman-site-on-the-market/1870112/" target="_blank">told local paper The Coffs Coast Advocate</a> that the store would go through “a bit of a refurbishment,” but that Harvey Norman had no plans to leave the town.</p> <p> “The Harvey Norman Lismore store has been here for 30 years and will probably be here for another 30 years, as long as Harvey Norman is around,” he said. “We are looking for another site, probably around where Bunnings is located, to build bigger and better premises.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Although Harvey Norman has a strong property portfolio in Australia, worth $2.14 billion as of 31 December 2012, Gerry Harvey said the retailer may be forced to lease new premises rather than investing in building new premises for Lismore.</p> <p> “It may be that we take a lease with the new owner for three, five or ten years, while we complete any new store plans,” Harvey told The Coffs Coast Advocate.</p> <p> “Lismore has been under consideration for a long time, but at the moment it is very difficult to build anything, because the cost of building is high and the rents that you can get are not good enough. We just built a new centre on the Sunshine Coast and it cost over $100 million to build and yet we had to write it down to $70 million.</p> <p> “We have a big incentive not to build anything at the moment. We've never been in this situation that our real estate division has come to a halt,” he said. “In 50 years we have never been as bad as we are at the moment in terms of developments.”</p> <p> Harvey would not comment on a potential new location for the Lismore business, but a Kennedy’s bid for a site near the local Bunnings would put the new store on the western fringes of Lismore, near the local airport.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="218" src="/image/HN Lismore Front.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Harvey Norman's Lismore store (Source: <a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-showrooms+bulky+goods-nsw-lismore-500032186" target="_blank">Real Commercial</a>).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="297" src="/image/HN Lismore Aerial.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> An aerial view of the property.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="296" src="/image/HN Lismore Electrical.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Inside the store's electrical department.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="297" src="/image/HN Lismore Rear.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> The store's rear loading dock.</p> <p> Below: Harvey Norman Lismore's location on Zadoc Street.</p> <p> <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=embed&hl=en&geocode=&q=17+Zadoc+Street,+Lismore,+New+South+Wales,+Australia&aq=0&oq=17+za&sll=-28.807226,153.282108&sspn=0.074457,0.147457&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=17+Zadoc+St,+Lismore+New+South+Wales+2480,+Australia&t=m&z=14&ll=-28.805946,153.279563" style="text-align: left; color: #0000ff">View Larger Map</a></p> Mon, 20 May 2013 13:22:39 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/20/article/Optus-launches-a-new-flavour-of-4G-in-Canberra/QGJCYQEBZR.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/20/article/Optus-launches-a-new-flavour-of-4G-in-Canberra/QGJCYQEBZR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire ReillyŒ</p> <p> Optus has announced plans to expand its 4G network in Australia, with the telco launching a high-speed LTE network in Canberra. Optus’ major competitor Telstra is currently the only provider with coverage in the city, while Vodafone is yet to provide 4G access anywhere in Australia (the network is expected to launch in June).</p> <p> The Canberra Optus network will run on TD-LTE technology, and will be the first of its kind in Australia to use a single frequency channel for data transfer.</p> <p> “Optus’ customers will start to enjoy the next generation of 4G with the pilot stage of our 4G TD-LTE network kicking off in Canberra,” said Günther Ottendorfer, managing director of Optus Networks.</p> <p> “Currently, 4G networks in Australia run on FD-LTE, which uses two separate frequency channels, one for data travelling in each direction. TD-LTE is a new flavour of 4G technology, where the upload and download of data happens on the same frequency but at different times.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> As part of the new network roll-out, Optus will also begin a customer trial of the first products to be compatible with this TD-LTE technology — an Optus 4G dual band dongle and Wi-Fi modem.</p> <p> Together, the combined FD-LTE and TD-LTE coverage across Australia has been branded by Optus as the “4G Dual Band Network”, as Optus vice president of Mobile Engineering Andrew Smith explained.</p> <p> “As part of our national rollout this coming year, many new mobile sites and upgrades across metro locations will have the combined 4G technologies of TD-LTE and FD-LTE, allowing customers with compatible devices access to Optus’ superfast 4G in more places,” said Smith.</p> <p> “Optus will be the first Australian carrier to take its network to the next level,” he added. “Our aim is to expand coverage for both types of 4G in the coming year to reach over 70 per cent of the metro population by mid-2014.</p> <p> “The combined 4G TD 2300MHz/FD-LTE 1800 MHz networks referred to as Optus’ 4G Dual Band Network will be available to customers using 4G Dual Band devices, with the first of those devices, mobile broadband modems, available from early June.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="397" src="/image/Optus 4G coverage(1).bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Optus' current mobile network: Canberra only has access to 3G coverage (shown in yellow), while parts of Sydney and Newcastle have 4G (shown in blue). (Source: <a href="https://www.optus.com.au/network/mobile/coverage" target="_blank">Optus Mobile Coverage map</a>).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="381" src="/image/Telstra 4G coverage.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Telstra's current mobile network: As Optus' only competitor in the 4G mobile space in Canberra, Telstra has extensive 4G coverage. 4G coverage (download speeds of 2 to 40Mbps) are shown in dark blue, while download speeds of 1.1 to 20 Mbps are shown in light blue, and download speeds of 550kbps to 3Mbps are shown in red. (Source: <a href="http://telstra.com.au/mobile-phones/coverage-networks/our-coverage/" target="_blank">Telstra Coverage Map</a>).</p> Mon, 20 May 2013 12:40:46 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/17/article/Inside-the-HIA-Sydney-Home-Show-Image-Gallery/RDDHDWIOPE.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/17/article/Inside-the-HIA-Sydney-Home-Show-Image-Gallery/RDDHDWIOPE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Images by Claire Reilly</p> <p> The HIA Home Show has rolled into Sydney once again, bringing plenty of appliance brands out of the woodwork to exhibit alongside brands from the building and renovation industry. Here's our wrap-up of the show...</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> <img alt="" height="309" src="/image/HIA Sydney_Vzug.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Swiss chef and V-Zug ambassador Felix Halter demonstrates the brand's cooking products. (<a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/17/article/HIA-Home-Show-gets-a-taste-of-Switzerland-with-V-Zug/TTTFKOLGBM.html" target="_blank">Click here to read about V-Zug's stand at the show</a>).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="234" src="/image/HIA Sydney_Beko 1.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Beko's stand at the HIA Sydney Home Show.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="261" src="/image/HIA Sydney_Beko Bing.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Beko had strong Bing Lee branding on its stand, with staff from several Sydney Bing Lee stores on hand to help customers.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="385" src="/image/HIA Sydney_Daikin.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Daikin on show.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="316" src="/image/HIA Sydney_Laurastar.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Gina from Laurastar demonstrates the brand's unique ironing system.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="208" src="/image/HIA Sydney_SodaStream.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> SodaStream gets busy with the fizzy.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="223" src="/image/HIA Sydney_Dynaudio.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Sleek and white - Dynaudio's stand focused on its new Xeo product.</p> Fri, 17 May 2013 13:07:32 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/17/article/HIA-Home-Show-gets-a-taste-of-Switzerland-with-V-Zug/TTTFKOLGBM.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/17/article/HIA-Home-Show-gets-a-taste-of-Switzerland-with-V-Zug/TTTFKOLGBM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> After a run in Melbourne in April, the HIA Home Show has arrived in Sydney with builders, designers, specifiers and consumers turning out in force today for the second day of the exhibition.</p> <p> Major sponsors of the show V-Zug had a strong presence at the event, which is running until Sunday, with other appliance brands including Beko, Daikin, SodaStream and Laurastar also making an appearance. The four-day show is playing host to more than 250 exhibitors from across the building, renovation and design industries, with everything from cabinetry, bathroom fixtures, spas and roofing on display.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Over at the V-Zug cooking display stand, the brand’s Swiss chef ambassador, Felix Halter, was giving demonstrations to prospective customers and offering up desserts baked in V-Zug’s hero Combi Steam oven.</p> <p> Halter talked the crowd through the features of the V-Zug brand, which is pitched in the marketplace at the premium end alongside brands such as Miele, showing off its “Swiss precision” at every turn. He showed off the appliances in action, discussing the benefits of cooking with steam, and talking up the steam features in other V-Zug products such as the brand’s washing machines.</p> <p> “Back in Switzerland, V-Zug is every second Swiss household,” he told the gathered audience. “It’s well built and it has a reputation like no other.”</p> <p> Although the brand has only been in Australia for four years, V-Zug has a strong European heritage, with the brand celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.</p> <p> Speaking to Current.com.au, V-Zug New South Wales state sales manager, John Creecy, said the brand had found success in Australia because of its targeted distribution and strong focus on demonstration.</p> <p> “We do demonstrations in retail stores about once a fortnight,” he said. “About 70 to 75 per cent of our sales come from demonstrations.”</p> <p> It also helps that the brand has a strong advocate in Felix Halter, who has been instrumental in developing recipes to be used with V-Zug appliances, combining Swiss and Australian cooking styles.</p> <p> “It’s all about a precision focus,” said Creecy. “You can just put the ingredients in and set it to one setting, and the oven will do the rest."</p> Fri, 17 May 2013 12:53:25 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/17/article/Waitrose-moves-a-step-closer-to-Australian-launch-John-Lewis-to-follow/DHUXSNBHSD.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/17/article/Waitrose-moves-a-step-closer-to-Australian-launch-John-Lewis-to-follow/DHUXSNBHSD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Leading British supermarket chain Waitrose is making tentative plans to enter the Australian market, at least in some capacity, as revealed by ™Watch editor and Current.com.au contributor Tim Lince.</p> <p> “High-end UK supermarket brand Waitrose has had its Australian trade mark application accepted, and officially entered the trade mark register last week,” <a href="http://trademarkwatch.wordpress.com/2013/05/12/uk-supermarket-waitrose-enters-australian-trade-mark-register/" target="_blank">wrote Lince at ™Watch</a>Œ(click on link to view trademark).</p> <p> “The supermarket company, which operates nearly 300 stores in the UK and also owns department store John Lewis, stated in 2011 it planned to enter the Australian market through franchising partnerships. The successful trade mark application could mean that goes ahead sooner rather than later.”</p> <p> Waitrose is arguably best known is Australia as the major sponsor of the Reading Football Club, home to Australian goalkeeper Adam Federici.</p> <p> ™Watch quoted a Waitrose spokesperson as saying, “we see the Australian market as a growth opportunity for the Waitrose brand”.</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: invert none 0px" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Although potential Waitrose-branded supermarkets in Australia would only carry a narrow appliance range, similar to what one might find in a Woolworths or Coles, the real competition for the appliance industry would come from John Lewis.</p> <p> Waitrose and John Lewis are both owned by the same employee-owned private partnership, called the John Lewis Partnership. Should Waitrose establish a successful beachhead in Australia, there would be a strong temptation to launch the John Lewis department store concept, at least in Sydney and Melbourne.</p> <p> Broadly similar to Myer and David Jones, John Lewis is known for having excellent customer service, a full-service website reflecting a mature approach to online trading and brilliant marketing campaigns.</p> <p> John Lewis’ Christmas advertisements have become a cultural fixture in the United Kingdom — its 2012 effort set to the music of The Smiths went viral as has been viewed by more than 5 million people.</p> <p> Œ</p> Fri, 17 May 2013 10:11:55 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/17/article/ASKO-drops-whitegoods-prices-for-May-Sale/LITXQNWLAI.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/17/article/ASKO-drops-whitegoods-prices-for-May-Sale/LITXQNWLAI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Swedish major appliance brand ASKO is bringing back its May Sale in 2013 — previously known as the very Nordic-sounding ‘Swedish Midsummer Sale’ — offering discounts of between $100 and $200 on its range of dishwashers, washing machines and dryers. The sale is running from 1 May until 31 July 2013, and is available through ASKO’s authorised agency retailers.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The brand is also offering these discounts in conjunction with its ‘Mix and Match’ offer, which has been running since 16 February 2013. Consumers that purchase any ASKO washing and dryer in the same transaction will be eligible to save $300 on the total sale with this offer, as well as any May Sale discounts they are eligible for.</p> <p> The Mix and Match promotion is only on offer while stock lasts. Full terms and conditions for the Mix and Match promotion and the May Sale can be found on the <a href="http://www.asko.com.au/promotions/laundry-offers-deals/" target="_blank">ASKO promotions website</a>.</p> <p> May Sale discounts by product model:</p> <p> Dishwashers $100 discount: D5424WH, D5424SS. $200 discount: D5434WH, D5434SS, D5457WH, D5457SS, D5544Fi, D5544FiXXL, D5644SS, D5644SSXXL, D5894FiXXL, D5894SSXXL.</p> <p> Washing Machines $100 discount: W6444, W6564. $200 discount: W6884ECO, W6888ALLERGY, W6984Fi.</p> <p> Dryers $100 discount: T754C, T784C. $200 discount: T754CHP, T784CHP, T794CFi.</p> Fri, 17 May 2013 09:55:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/Retailers-encouraged-to-learn-more-about-changes-to-workplace-relations/UBUHAUINJK.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/Retailers-encouraged-to-learn-more-about-changes-to-workplace-relations/UBUHAUINJK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> The Australian Retailers Association is holding Employment Relations Briefings in Sydney and Melbourne next week to educate retailers and staff on changes in the workplace relations field.</p> <p> “As changes and challenges continually occur in the employment relations field, retailers need to keep abreast of how their businesses and staff are affected,” said an ARA spokesperson. “Attendees at the briefing will receive a summary of the key developments and issues in employment relations, as well as an opportunity to engage with other retailers.”</p> <p> Attendance at these briefings is free for all retailers.</p> <p> The Melbourne event is at the Small Business Information Centre at 113 Exhibition Street from 4pm on Tuesday 21 May 2013.</p> <p> The Sydney event is the following day at Level 1, 168 Willoughby Road, Crows Nest; also from 4pm.</p> Thu, 16 May 2013 14:25:47 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/Samsung-NX300-camera-puts-Usain-in-the-campaign/XPRVGUJNGV.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/Samsung-NX300-camera-puts-Usain-in-the-campaign/XPRVGUJNGV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Samsung is launching its latest smart camera offering into Australian retail stores this month with a high profile campaign featuring world’s fastest runner, Usain Bolt.</p> <p> Bolt will appear in globally in Samsung’s digital imaging campaigns, and is being used specifically to promote the brand’s NX300 interchangeable lens camera. Samsung is focusing specifically on the camera’s fast frame rate and autofocus capabilities, as well as the suite of Smart 2.0 connectivity features that it offers — all summed up under the Bolt-endorsed tagline, “Shoot fast, share faster”.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Speaking at yesterday’s Australian launch of the new digital camera, Samsung Australia head of digital imaging Craig Gillespie said the NX 300 offered “consumer-friendly features as well as high-end functionality”.</p> <p> “In terms of camera functionality, performance and value, as well as the Smart 2.0 features that have been launched previously, what we’ve done is bring them together into a really groundbreaking product,” he said. “It is absolutely incredible. Samsung has now picked up the pace.”</p> <p> On the fast shooting side of the equation, the 20.3-megapixel NX300 features 1/6000 second shutter speed and up to 8.6 frames-per-second continuous shooting in full resolution. The brand is also boasting superior and speedy Hybrid Auto Focus with 105 auto focus points — a claim that Current.com.au had the chance to validate with a hands-on demonstration.</p> <p> In terms of fast sharing, the NX300 falls into Samsung’s Smart 2.0 range of products, with features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, Direct Link hot key for one-touch sharing with a compatible camera, smartphone or tablet, and NFC compatibility.</p> <p> As the “hero” of Samsung’s digital imaging range, the NX300 is set to be supported by a solid retail marketing campaign with a strong focus on the Usain Bolt connection. At the point of sale, the brand will be rolling out more traditional materials such as stands and counter mats, as well as new elements to bring some “theatre” to the sales process, as Gillespie explained.</p> <p> “We’re creating ‘Standees’ of Usain Bolt [Life-sized, 3D cutouts] which are roughly 1.8 metres high, and they’ll have more of a retail call to action,” he said. “There’ll be Usain Bolt with the product as well as the NX300 execution behind them. We’re also working with some retailers at the moment on things like a blue running track leading to the product.</p> <p> “We’ve created some point of sale, which retailers can contact their account managers about, with hands-on display units of the NX300 that can be shown next to the Usain standing image. And that stand not only calls out the Usain imagery, but it also talks about the functional benefits of the product, and also keeps the camera powered.</p> <p> “That’s a key thing in terms of customers getting hands on and experiencing the full frame rates per second and the speed of the auto focus. It’s going to be the key differentiator.”</p> <p> The NX300 will be available in brown and white, with the single lens kit (18-55mm f/3.5-5.6) hitting stores from “mid-May” for RRP $899. A twin lens kit is due next month, with both a brown and white camera body available, for RRP $1,199.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="263" src="/image/NX300_brown.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> The NX300.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="231" src="/image/NX300_Filter Comparison.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> A comparison showing the camera's "Forest" filter (for dynamic landscape shots) and the hipster-worthy "Retro" filter.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="278" src="/image/NX300_Usain Standee.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> One of Samsung's Usain Bolt "Standees" taking in the sights at Sydney Harbour.</p> Thu, 16 May 2013 11:11:00 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/BlackBerry-signs-on-LA-Guns-hands-out-awards-at-quiet-conference-day/DTWJRGQPVG.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/BlackBerry-signs-on-LA-Guns-hands-out-awards-at-quiet-conference-day/DTWJRGQPVG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/BBM-finally-coming-to-iOS-and-Android-devices-new-Q5-device-aimed-at-kids/PVTYLIFXIJ" target="_blank">Read our wrap of Day 1 of BlackBerryŒJam AmericasŒin Orlando</a></p> <p> The lure of a relaxing sail on Lake Apopka, a visit to the Kennedy Space Centre and, of course, a pilgrimage to the world famous Winter Park Sinkhole must have been very strong in Orlando, Florida, overnight as BlackBerry seemed to take a lay day from major announcements to only provide updates on new enterprise clients and hand out some gongs to business partners.</p> <p> The good news for the Canadian smartphone manufacturer is that interest in BlackBerry 10 is clearly apparent across a number of major corporate sectors. A BlackBerry executive, presumably wearing a signed-Shaquille-O’Neal-#32-Orlando-Magic-singlet, QWERTY-keyboarded out the following:</p> <p> “BlackBerry today announced a number of North American enterprises across a diverse range of sectors, including high tech, banking, retail and government that have adopted BlackBerry 10 and BlackBerry Enterprise Service 10 as part of their mobile strategy.</p> <p> “The growing number of organisations testing, adopting or reaffirming commitment to BlackBerry as their Enterprise Mobility Management solution, include: Canadian Tire Corporation, ING DIRECT, Ingram Micro, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Ricoh Canada and Torys LLP.”</p> <p> Although well outside his jurisdiction, Commander Scott Edson from the Los Angeles County Sherrif’s Department, presumably wearing a signed-Shaquille-O’Neal-#34-Los-Angeles-Lakers-singlet, fired off the following:</p> <p> “Technology is moving fast, and the BlackBerry 10 platform is a viable secure platform that can help us keep up.</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: invert none 0px" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “I have personally tested devices on many smartphone operating systems and I think the BlackBerry 10 platform is a homerun.Œ It’s very secure right out of the box, a great benefit to government and business, and is designed to make your various communication methods more efficient.”</p> <p> Meanwhile, over at the <a href="http://www.orlandovenues.net/other_info_files/bob_carr_centre.php" target="_blank">Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre</a> (you couldn’t make this stuff up), the following winners are presumably celebrating wins in the BlackBerry Achievement Awards:</p> <p> PriceCheck Mobile for App of the Year ING DIRECT Canada for Putting Customers First DirecTV for Mobile Innovation of the Year e-Cycle for Making the World a Better Place Nobex Technologies for Entrepreneur of the Year</p> <p> Meanwhile, in start-packing-your-bags-now news, BlackBerry has confirmed its 2013 Jam Asia conference will be held in Hong Kong on 26 and 27 September 2013. Try the dumplings!</p> Thu, 16 May 2013 10:23:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/Panasonic-reaching-out-to-sales-staff-on-national-roadshow/LKMQEHUUPI.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/Panasonic-reaching-out-to-sales-staff-on-national-roadshow/LKMQEHUUPI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> The sales and marketing teams at Panasonic is currently pounding the pavement around Australia as it embarks on a full service retail roadshow to built relationships with store staff, provide product training and show its appreciation for the work they do matching electronics with consumers.</p> <p> The first shows on this tour have already been held in Adelaide and Melbourne. Over the course of the next month, Panasonic will visit Sydney for two presentations (21 and 22 May 2013), and have one each in Brisbane (28 May 2013) and Perth (12 June 2013).</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: invert none 0px" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Richard Tassone, general manager marketing for consumer electronics, said retailers and staff will be introduced to a broad range of products at the show, including washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners, cameras and camcorders, and Panasonic’s complete home entertainment solution.</p> <p> “We felt it was the right time to hold a roadshow on this scale, with our recent push into new areas of whitegoods, as well as TV and imaging products that offer even greater interactivity and connectivity for the consumer and integration with devices such as smartphones and tablets,” he said.</p> <p> “The real focus for the roadshow is to show our retail partners some simple ways they can demonstrate this in-store to highlight the benefits to the customer.Œ</p> <p> “All our product managers and training staff were involved in this on the evening. For example, the ‘My Home Screen’ feature on our Viera TVs recognises the user’s face with a built-in camera, and then displays their home screen with their favourite apps.Œ It’s simple for a retailer to set up their own home screen in-store, and then demonstrate it to customers.</p> <p> “We have had great feedback already.Œ For example, in Adelaide a number of the retailers came to us with their customer questions on the new range, so we were able to show them on the spot some in-store demo ideas. I’m looking forward to the other states.”</p> <p> Retail floor staff interested in attending a Panasonic road show session are advised toŒcontact their Panasonic Sales Representative.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/_1060162.jpg" width="532" /></p> <p> Sales staff listen intently to a presentation during the Panasonic roadshow in Melbourne.</p> <p> Here is my wrap of Panasonic's regional press conference, which originally appeared in <a href="http://www.intermedia.com.au/print/news-item/appliance-retailer-magazine" target="_blank">Appliance Retailer magazine</a>:</p> <p> Panasonic Australia descended on Adelaide recently to hold its annual sales conference and officially launch its 2013 home entertainment and digital imaging ranges. </p> <p> Plasma panels continue to be Panasonic’s flagship technology, though the 2013 range has been tightened and simplified to convey a streamlined message: there are six models; all are Full HD; all but one is 3D; sizes range from 50-inch to 65-inch.</p> <p> While the viewing experience on these plasmas remains excellent, Panasonic will instead be focusing its marketing and consumer communication on its reimagined Smart Viera platform. Product marketing manager Maetham Roomi outlined its key features.</p> <p> “The new Plasma range is a frontrunner in home entertainment with improvements to networking functions such as My Home Screen, which provides instant access to users’ favourite content on a personalised TV screen,” Roomi said. “Voice Interaction lets users intuitively control the TV and Swipe and Share 2.0 makes it easy to link the TV with a smartphone or tablet and share photos, videos, and web pages with family and friends. </p> <p> Swipe and Share 2.0 is compatible with Android and Apple smartphones and tablets.</p> <p> There are also 19 LCD TVs in Panasonic’s range, from a 24-inch model at RRP $429 up to a 60-inch model at RRP $4,199.</p> <p> Complementing these new TVs is a new Blu-ray Disc recorder with an extra 1TB hard drive for RRP $799. For those not concerned with recording to Blu-ray, there are two new combination Blu-ray Players with hard disk recording in 500GB (RRP $499) and 1TB (RRP $599) varieties.</p> <p> To enhance retailers’ up-selling opportunities, Panasonic has introduced the SC-HTB series of Sound Bar Systems. There are two models: an entry level unit suited for TVs between 42 and 50 inches (RRP $299) and a much more stylish and versatile system suitable for TVs up to 65 inches (RRP $699).</p> <p> In digital imaging, Panasonic has refreshed its Lumix tough range, releasing two new models with improved feature sets. The new flagship tough camera is the FT5 (RRP $499), which has the best specifications for a ruggedised point-and-shoot in Australia: waterproof to 13 metres, shockproof to 2 metres, freezeproof to -10° Celsius, dustproof and resistant to 100 kilograms of pressure.</p> <p> Joining this model is the FT25 (RRP $249), which has reduced protection and only HD video recording but is still a good option for consumers looking to add a tough unit to their camera bag.</p> <p> As it the world’s slimmest camera of its type, Panasonic’s new TZ40 (RRP $499) is the ultimate pocket camera for travellers, revellers and admirers. The 18.1-megapixel sensor is enormous, as is the 20x zoom, so users can get great close-up shots of Eiffel Tower rivets, the eye of the Sphinx and Kilimanjaro rising like Olympus above the Serengeti.</p> <p> “Using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, the DMC-TZ40 can be connected to a NFC compatible smartphone device at a touch, and still and movie shooting can be controlled from the smartphone screen,” said Doug Campbell. “And with the new Wi-Fi capability it’s even easier to capture, save and share those amazing memories with family and friends.”</p> <p> Finally, Panasonic has unveiled a new Full HD camcorder range, which includes Wi-Fi models that can controlled via a smartphone or tablet app.</p> <p> Top of the line is the HC-X920M (RRP $1,699) is the flagship model, featuring Panasonic’s 3MOS System Pro and Hybrid OIS+ for crystal clear and stable handheld recording. Other models in the range include the 50x optical zoom equipped HC-V520M (RRP $599) and the entry level HC-V110 (RRP $299).</p> Thu, 16 May 2013 09:32:29 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/Canon-claims-no-one-sells-cameras-like-traditional-retailers/WKXZSEXMRA.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/Canon-claims-no-one-sells-cameras-like-traditional-retailers/WKXZSEXMRA.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> The next stage of Canon's 'No One Sees It Like You' marketing campaign is a promotion to encourage consumers to only purchase their DSLRs, compact system cameras and point-and-shoots from authorise resellers. The impetus behind this campaign is the revenue lost to overseas online traders when consumers choose grey importers over retailers such as Harvey Norman, Camera House and JB Hi-Fi.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="258" src="/image/Canon.png" width="675" /></p> <p> An example of the New South Wales creative. States will have creative featuring local retailers.</p> <p> This latest step in Canon's campaign to promote local retailers and discourage offshore purchasing comes after changes to the company's warranty and the abandoning of RRPs. Several leading retailers have complained to Current.com.au, however, that major camera suppliersŒare still not doing enough to create price parity, which is widely regarded as the only way to deter the public from turning to grey importers for a discount.</p> <p> “We’re making every effort to grow the local market and are investing heavily in retail partnerships to drive growth by offering consumers a great imaging experience and fantastic value, " said Canon Australia's director of consumer imaging, Jason McLean “This year alone we've invested millions to help authorised retailers offer very competitive pricing and we’re actively making consumers aware that the value locally has never been so good.”</p> <p> This promotion will be running for seven weeks, McLean said, and forms part of the most expensive media activity in Canon Australia's history.</p> <p> “At a time of significant market change we’re making bold moves to achieve market growth in Australia from which we all benefit,” he said. “With the best range, the unique ability to offer consumers the complete imaging experience from capture to output, and very competitive local pricing, Canon and our partners are well positioned to grow in 2013.”</p> Wed, 15 May 2013 16:53:55 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/The-camera-of-tomorrow----now-in-human-form/QPPOUZUCRD.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/The-camera-of-tomorrow----now-in-human-form/QPPOUZUCRD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent is secretly a bit impressed that Samsung has managed to snag six-time Olympic medal winner, World’s Fastest Runner and non-bobsledding Jamaican icon as its new brand ambassador for digital imaging.</p> <p> Heck, UnderCurrent is even impressed with Bolt’s toned physique and running prowess in Samsung’s new commercial showing off its latest camera, set to appear soon as part of its comprehensive retail marketing campaign.</p> <p> But we can’t help but feel concerned that all those comparisons between Bolt’s body and the camera chassis — Bolt’s eye is like a lens, his arms are squared off like a touchscreen — show something a little bit sinister.</p> <p> Is the next product we see going to be a cyborg Usain Bolt that can take photos for you?</p> <p> If so, well played Samsung. Well played.</p> <p> </p> Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:48 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/Grundig-brand-reverts-from-Bush-Australia-to-Beko-owners-Arcelik/FEGTKFKREF.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/Grundig-brand-reverts-from-Bush-Australia-to-Beko-owners-Arcelik/FEGTKFKREF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Bush Australia has ceased distributing the Grundig brand, meaning brand owner The Arcelik Group is now free to distribute consumer electronics and appliances under this brand, in addition to its existing Beko range.</p> <p> Jim Parissis, marketing manager for Bush Australia, said the licensing agreement for the Grundig brand ceased on 31 March 2013. To ensure that it maintained its presence in certain categories and to protect revenue streams, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/09/19/article/Blaupunkt-brand-launches-in-Australia-with-radios-docks-and-LCD-TVs/SMLCWCRULB.html" target="_blank">Bush Australia introduced the first Blaupunkt AV range</a> six month earlier, joining its Bush and iLuv brands.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The <a href="http://www.grundig.net.au">former Grundig website</a> is now showcasing Blaupunkt products and displaying message “We are now Blaupunkt Australa”, a situation that is set to be clarified, according to Parissis.</p> <p> “We are revisiting how we will communicate Bush's transition from Grundig to Blaupunkt to customers,” he said. To clarify, Blaupunkt AV products are licensed by Bush Australia, which is a similar arrangement to what we had with Grundig.</p> <p> “The Grundig website is owned by Bush Australia, which is why we have repopulated this site with Blaupunkt content, and will soon delete this URL and redirect traffic to the Blaupunkt website.”</p> <p> Parissis confirmed that Bush Australia will continue to honour warranties and provide after sales service for Grundig products purchased while being supplied by Bush Australia.</p> <p> Current.com.au understands that there are no non-compete clauses preventing The Arcelik Group, owner of the Beko range of home appliances, from immediately releasing its own range of Grundig-branded products.</p> <p> Industry sources have told Current.com.au that Australia is more likely to see a Grundig cooking appliance range than any home entertainment products.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/~2994794.jpg" width="430" /></p> <p> A new Blaupunkt HD TV with integrated DVD player.</p> Wed, 15 May 2013 14:11:52 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/Bettas-newest-retailer-brings-history-and-a-unique-proposition/VSMHBLWTBC.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/Bettas-newest-retailer-brings-history-and-a-unique-proposition/VSMHBLWTBC.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> In just a few weeks, Betta Stores Retail (BSR) will have its newest member store spruced up in blue and yellow livery and ready to trade under the Betta Home Living shingle.</p> <p> The store is Aus-Appliances, formerly Retravision Kingsford, and it comes to the Betta stable with an independent name and a unique take on online retail. Current.com.au spoke to store proprietor Raul Aiello about the birth of Aus-Appliances online just over two years ago, and the brand’s imminent shift to BSR.</p> <p> “A couple of years back we felt that Retravision was going to collapse, and we decided to do something to anticipate that — it sort of felt like something was going to go wrong," saidŒAiello.Œ"So the Aus-Appliances name was born.”</p> <p> The bricks and mortar Aus-Appliances store, located in the eastern-Sydney suburb of Kingsford, was matched with a website showcasing the retailer’s range of electronics, furniture and appliances – including the store’s selection of Miele products.</p> <p> Although the website is transactional, Aiello said the retailer had found unexpected success in using the <a href="http://www.aus-appliances.com.au/" target="_blank">aus-appliances.com.au</a> domain as a way to advertise the store.</p> <p> “I use the site more as an online advertising medium to drive people into the store,” said Aiello. “That’s really my proposition, because to sell a fridge to Perth for us is not really feasible to be honest. So it’s been good, because people have told me for 20 years – we’ve been here for 20 years – that they didn’t know we were here. It’s a good way for us to connect with people that don’t drive down Gardeners Road [where the store is located].</p> <p> "We’ve also launched <a href="http://www.aus-furniture.com.au/" target="_blank">Aus-Furniture</a> – we’re a Furniture One store as well – and Aus-Furniture has been doing very well in that regard, bringing people in from all over Sydney to buy Sealy, La-Z-Boy and Moran furniture.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Although the brand has been advertising in local newspapers for years, Aiello said he wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for the store’s rebranding. As a result, he estimated that as much as half of the retailer’s advertising was no directed to online, through services such as Google Ad Words and Getprice. But he still conceded that the online game was tough.</p> <p> “If you want my opinion, online is killing us, but you sort of have no choice but to do it as well. If you don’t, then you’ve got nothing. I wonder how many [online retailers] are actually making money though. I’ve seen plenty come and go already, because it’s expensive to deliver.</p> <p> “9 out of 10 of our negative feedback comments are because Allied Express or Australia Post or somebody destroyed the product. There must be a big cost involved in that if you’re not really well set up like a national major. Obviously Retravision should have done that and they didn’t. But Harvey Norman with 180 stores has a fair bit more control because you’ve got a store in every town.”</p> <p> As a result of some of the difficulties in organising delivery as a smaller retailer, Aiello said the retailer had focused on serving local Sydney customers well, and using the site to prominently display the store’s address in order to increase foot traffic.</p> <p> When those customers walk in over the next few weeks, they’ll see Betta and Furniture One branding given pride of place on the store (the changeover from the Retravision shingle was initially delayed by Council difficulties), while the Aus-Appliances logo will still attract the locals.</p> <p> After all the tumult with Retravision over the last few years, Aiello said he was happy with his new Betta home, but also sad to see Retravision go.</p> <p> “Every person I’ve met at Betta, up to and including Graeme [Cunningham] has been extremely nice,” he said. “But changing the system from something we’ve known for 19 years to something new has been a lot of effort and work. And changing supplier accounts again – I can’t imagine anyone loves that!”</p> <p> “We were here when the New South Wales collapse happened in 2006 and we joined Victoria. That collapse obviously happened last year in June, then of course we all joined Western Australia. Anecdotally, the difference I’ve noticed – and I think Sydney Metro guys have a different opinion to the country guys on this one – is that the Victorian [Retravision members] hated Western Australia.</p> <p> “I think 9 out of 10 people in Victoria hated Western Australia. There was an ongoing feud down there.</p> <p> “I quite liked Retravision Southern and I’m very sad that it’s gone. I think we all hated the Western Australia four month transition, because no one knew what was going on. I’m sad it happened, it’s as simple as that.”</p> Wed, 15 May 2013 14:01:07 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/Refrigerators-and-Robots-will-never-be-together-at-last/QYCZMHQCLZ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/Refrigerators-and-Robots-will-never-be-together-at-last/QYCZMHQCLZ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Rrefrigerators: tall, white, bland. Robots: brilliant, awesome, interesting.</p> <p> UnderCurrent is depressed to learn that inspired San Diego native Nathan Tobiason has failed to reach his $5,000 funding goal on Kickstarter to conflate these two Rs into one beautiful hybrid: FRIDGEBOTS...</p> <p> </p> <p> "Do you have a name for your car or bicycle? Do you ever find yourself talking to inanimate objects? Do you yearn for the day when household robots are as common as refrigerators?"</p> <p> Those are the questions posed by Nathan in his appeal - UnderCurrent answered 'yes' to all three - but, alas, we must all continue to live in a world sans Fridgebots...</p> Wed, 15 May 2013 13:01:00 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/LG-promotions-to-entice-consumers-and-boost-winter-sales/NWAWKBHHWS.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/LG-promotions-to-entice-consumers-and-boost-winter-sales/NWAWKBHHWS.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> LG has launched a number of promotions for the winter retail period, with cashback and bonus offers being rolled out to boost sales across three categories.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In the seasonal space, LG is hoping to promote its air conditioning range to winter purchasers by offering an LG Eftpos Cash Card up to the value of $200 with selected models. There are cash cards valued at $100, $150 and $200 available with the purchase of eligible split system air conditioners, while selected ducted system air conditioners will also be matched with a $200 cash card.</p> <p> The promotion runs from 1 May to 31 August 2013, with proof of purchase required by 16 September 2013. Full details are available on the <a href="http://www.lg.com/au/promotions/aircon-promo/index.jsp" target="_blank">LG air conditioner promotion website</a>.</p> <p> In whitegoods, LG is offering a Eftpos Cash Cards valued at $50, $75, $100 and $150 with the purchase of selected Smartwasher washing machines from 24 April to 23 June 2013. Proof of purchase must be received by 8 July 2013.</p> <p> Full details can be found on the <a href="http://www.lg.com/au/promotions/smartwasher2013/index.jsp" target="_blank">LG Smartwasher promotion website</a>.</p> <p> Finally, customers who purchase an LG Solardom Lightwave Convection Oven or standard Microwave Oven between 24 April and 23 June 2013 will receive a free 12-month magazine subscription (valued at up to RRP $90).</p> <p> Full details are available on the <a href="http://www.lg.com/au/promotions/MothersDay2013/index.jsp" target="_blank">LG microwave promotion website</a>.</p> <p> Air conditioner promotion</p> <p> Split System Air Conditioners with $100 Eftpos cash card: E09AWN-11, E12AWN-11, R09AWN-11, R12AWN-11, I09AWN-11, I12AWN-11, K09AWN-11, K12AWN-11.</p> <p> Split System Air Conditioners with $150 Eftpos cash card: E18AWN-11, E22AWN-11, R18AWN-11, R22AWN-11, I18AWN-11.</p> <p> Split System Air Conditioners with $200 Eftpos cash card: E24AWN-11, E28AWN-11, R24AWN-11, R28AWN-11, I24AWN-11, I28AWN-11.</p> <p> Ducted System Air Conditioners with $200 Etfpos cash card: B24AWY-GMH, B30AWY-7G4, B36AWY-7G4, B42AWY-7G4, B55AWY-7G4, B70AWY-9L4, B30AWY-763, B36AWY-763, B42AWY-763, B48AWY-763, B55AWY-763.</p> <p> Smartwasher promotion</p> <p> $50 Eftpos cash card: WD12021D6, WD14022D6, WD14023D6, WD14024D6, WD1402CRD6.</p> <p> $75 Eftpos cash card: WD14130D6, WD14135D6; $100 cash card: WD14070D6, WD14130FD6, WD14130RD6, WT-R10806.</p> <p> $150 Eftpos cash card: WD14070SD6, WT-R10856.</p> <p> Microwave promotion</p> <p> Eligible microwaves: MS3840SR, MS3840SRSK, MS3846VRL, MS3842XRL, MS3882XRSK, MS3042G, MS3042X.</p> <p> Eligible Solardom Lightwave Convection ovens: MC8289UR, MP-9483SLA, MA3281U, MP-9485SA, MA3281GW, MP-9289VSD, MA3281T.</p> Wed, 15 May 2013 11:53:52 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/BBM-finally-coming-to-iOS-and-Android-devices-new-Q5-device-aimed-at-kids/PVTYLIFXIJ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/15/article/BBM-finally-coming-to-iOS-and-Android-devices-new-Q5-device-aimed-at-kids/PVTYLIFXIJ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> The first day of BlackBerry’s annual jolly to Orlando, Florida, has produced some actual news: BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) is coming to iOS and Android devices later this year and a new QWERTY keyboard handset aimed at junior BlackBerry users (presumably codenamed ‘Ribena’) is coming soon to selected markets.</p> <p> BlackBerry Messenger is widely regarded as one of the greatest mobile features in smartphone history. A precursor to iMessage and Google Talk, it let BlackBerry users text each other, or groups of others, without charge and with near immediacy. So good is BBM at communicating with efficacy and aplomb, the service was identified as <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/aug/08/london-riots-facebook-twitter-blackberry" target="_blank">an organising tool of the 2011 London Riots</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; outline: invert none 0px" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> As one-time CrackBerry addicts slowly morphed into Apple Fanboys and Google fAndroids, there has been a growing call for BlackBerry to make BBM an app that can be used across platforms. That call has been answered, as a BlackBerry executive, presumably wearing Mickey Mouse ears and drinking a Mai Tai, explained from Florida:</p> <p> “BlackBerry today announced plans to make its groundbreaking mobile social network, BlackBerry Messenger, available to iOS and Android users this summer, with support planned for iOS6, and Android 4.0 or higher, all subject to approval by the Apple App Store and Google Play.</p> <p> “BBM sets the standard for mobile instant messaging with a fast, reliable, engaging experience that includes delivered and read statuses, and personalised profiles and avatars. Upon release, BBM customers would be able to broaden their connections to include friends, family and colleagues on other mobile platforms.”</p> <p> And what device will the kids be using to BBM each other? The BlackBerry Q5! This new 4G handset, running the BlackBerry 10 operating system, features a full QWERTY keyboard and is designed specifically to target the youth market.</p> <p> BlackBerry CEO Thorsten Heins, presumably while riding the Tea Cups at Disney World, had this to say:</p> <p> “The BlackBerry Q5 gives you the best of everything with its cutting-edge BlackBerry 10 functionality and a physical QWERTY keyboard. It is for youthful fans that are passionate, confident and bold, and it makes it easy for them to have fun, create, share and stay connected.”</p> <p> The Q5 is available in black, white, red and pink. The screen is 3.1 inches diagonally with a 720 x 720 resolution at 329 PPI.</p> <p> There are 2GB of RAM and 8GB of Flash storage, expandable by up to 40GB via MicroSD. There’s a 1.2Ghz dual-core processor, 5-megapixel rear camera with Full HD recording and GPS.</p> <p> BlackBerry reports that this model will only be available in selected markets, and does not specify whether Australia is one of those. If it is coming Down Under, it is expected to be here in July 2013.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/16/article/BlackBerry-signs-on-LA-Guns-hands-out-awards-at-quiet-conference-day/DTWJRGQPVG.html" target="_blank">Read our wrap of Day 2 of BlackBerry Jam Americas in Orlando</a></p> <p> <img alt="" height="471" src="/image/Q5_Red_Front.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Youth Market: the new BlackBerry Q5.</p> <p> In less interesting news from the BlackBerry Jam Americas conference, <a href="http://press.blackberry.com/press/2013/blackberry-launches-global-womens-initiative.html" target="_blank">Alicia Keys launched an initiative</a>, Flurry Analytics was unveiled to <a href="http://press.blackberry.com/press/2013/blackberry-and-flurry-announce-flurry-analytics-for-blackberry-1.html" target="_blank">help app developers keep tabs on users</a>, BlackBerry <a href="http://press.blackberry.com/press/2013/blackberry-enterprise-service-10-version-10-1-now-available-for-.html" target="_blank">Enterprise Service 10 v10.1</a> is now available for download and <a href="http://press.blackberry.com/press/2013/blackberry-enables-secure-enterprise-instant-messaging-on-blackb.html" target="_blank">secure enterprise instant messaging</a> is now enabled on BlackBerry 10.</p> Wed, 15 May 2013 10:11:25 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/14/article/Weathering-winter-sales-Sunbeam-talks-seasonal-appliances/LDWLYZEFJQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/14/article/Weathering-winter-sales-Sunbeam-talks-seasonal-appliances/LDWLYZEFJQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> With the start of winter just over two weeks away, Sunbeam has launched a new radio campaign to promote its electric blankets, targeting consumers with so-called “winter intolerance”. The radio ad, which began airing last week in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, asks consumers whether they are “in denial about winter” and suggests buying a Sunbeam Sleep Perfect electric blanket to help them get through winter “as if it doesn’t exist”.</p> <p> With the brand increasing its marketing push in the seasonal space, Current.com.au spoke to Sunbeam’s seasonal product manager, Roslyn Anderson, about ways retailers can capitalise on increased sales in the winter months.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> According to Anderson, many consumers are getting by with an older blanketŒwithout realising the advantages of a newer model, and retailers need to let them know all the new features available.</p> <p> “Talk about the benefits of the new products such as fast heat up and cosy feet heating,” said Anderson. “Consumers might also have a tie-tape blanket, so retailers can talk about the ease of use of the fitted blankets, and there are also many more options available to improve comfort – such as quilted, pillowtop and wool fleece blankets.”</p> <p> Anderson suggested having fitted electric blankets out of their packaging and on display on a bed in a high traffic area. This way, consumers can see what they’re getting and see the features and benefits.</p> <p> Because the category is so dependent on changes in the weather, seasonal appliances can be a tough sell, and Anderson conceded that heating and electric blankets could be a difficult category for retailers.</p> <p> “It really is the same for suppliers such as Sunbeam,” she said, noting the difficulties. “We look at trends in weather patterns as well as the selling patterns from the year before. Unfortunately it’s not an exact science, so over- or under-stocks are a hazard we all know about."</p> <p> Despite this, Anderson said there were ways to sell electric blankets and heaters, regardless of the weather conditions outside.</p> <p> “If the weather isn’t conducive to selling electric blankets, then talking about what products consumers currently use in their home can be a starting point. You may be able to talk about the merits and advantages of buying a new product that is more energy efficient, has more functions than their current product, and will improve warmth.</p> <p> “If the weather is cold and miserable, then consumers are already in the store looking to purchase.”</p> <p> Finally, as with all seasonal appliances, Anderson reiterated the message that safety comes first.</p> <p> “It’s good to remind consumers that electric blankets should be regularly checked and that making sure they are safe to use from year to year is paramount.”</p> Tue, 14 May 2013 14:41:28 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/14/article/JB-Home-offering-a-competitive-though-narrow-offer-to-appliance-consumers/PLFVESIPOE.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/14/article/JB-Home-offering-a-competitive-though-narrow-offer-to-appliance-consumers/PLFVESIPOE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi self-branded foray into retail home appliances is a very competitive, warehouse-style proposition, according to research conducted by CIMB Equities director – retail, Daniel Broeren.</p> <p> Having previously marketed appliances in its Clive Anthony’s-branded retail outlets, JB Hi-Fi has been embarking on a new JB Home concept, which trades off JB Hi-Fi’s very strong name in consumer electronics.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Broeren, an expert in analysing publicly listed retailers, visited JB Home’s Moore Park outlet yesterday, discovering that, broadly speaking, JB Home’s listed, pre-negotiation prices are cheaper than the Harvey Norman store in the same retail precinct.</p> <p> “We conducted a price check to determine the appropriateness of ticket pricing, pre negotiation,” Broeren reported. “Small appliances pricing on-average matched the Harvey Norman in the same centre. Bulky appliance 'ticket' pricing was, in almost all cases, lower than Harvey Norman.</p> <p> “Importantly, this should give JB Home a seat at the table for negotiation.”</p> <p> Some of the bigger price differentials noted by Broeren included a Sunbeam iron (19 per cent cheaper), a Simpson clothes dryer (29 per cent) and an LG refrigerator (11 per cent). The biggest price difference in Harvey Norman’s direction was on a Nescafe Dolce Gusto coffee machine (20 per cent).</p> <p> Broeren noted that JB Home’s strong suit is small appliances, which take up less shelfspace and are easier to sell in volume, due to their significantly lower price points.</p> <p> “The small appliance offer was particularly good,” he said. “The range was smaller than a full size Harvey Norman store, but sufficient in our view. “The kitchen range is small and unlikely to challenge Harvey Norman or specialist retailers.”</p> <p> JB Home has chosen to merchandise its appliance offering with a near identical approach to its JB Hi-Fi consumer electronics range. There are eye-catching shelf talkers and hand drawn signs, while the same casual font and colour scheme has been employed. This is a notable differentiation from competitors, which tend to favour a more serious approach to appliance merchandising.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="364" src="/image/JB Home Irons.bmp" width="272" /></p> <p> Part of JB Home's "particularly good" smalls ranging.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="364" src="/image/JB Home Wall Ovens.bmp" width="273" /></p> <p> Broeren said the kitchen range was smaller than competitor offerings.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="245" src="/image/JB Home Microwaves.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> The busy, no-frills displays are consistent with JB Hi-Fi's electronics stores.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="240" src="/image/JB Home Washers.bmp" width="273" /></p> <p> Hand-written signs are used throughout JB Home.</p> Tue, 14 May 2013 11:26:30 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/14/article/Blancos-community-spirit-shines-at-Mothers-Day-Classic/WYNVHAEFWP.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/14/article/Blancos-community-spirit-shines-at-Mothers-Day-Classic/WYNVHAEFWP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Blanco staff at Shriro Australia did their bit for the community last weekend, supporting the National Breast Cancer Foundation by participating in the Mother’s Day Classic fun run.</p> <p> A Platinum sponsor of the Foundation, Blanco staff has raised almost $10,000 for this worthy cause, with 40 participants across New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria, including Blanco ambassador and former MasterChef Australia star Alvin Quah.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/DSC05398(1).JPG" width="451" /></p> <p> The Blanco team at the Mother's Day Classic.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="451" src="/image/DSC05415.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Blanco advertising and promotions executive Lisa Hill with Alvin Quah.</p> Tue, 14 May 2013 10:37:44 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/13/article/Dick-Smith-business-review-leads-to-reduction-in-workforce/VDUICLXQSY.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/13/article/Dick-Smith-business-review-leads-to-reduction-in-workforce/VDUICLXQSY.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Dick Smith Electronics has restructured its Australian business to ensure it can remain a competitive and attractive retail option for consumers, Current.com.au can today reveal.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In a statement to Current.com.au, a spokesperson made it clear that this change was not affecting local store numbers.</p> <p> "Dick Smith Electronics in Australia has undertaken a review of its business and as a result, is implementing a series of operational changes.</p> <p> "Dick Smith is focussed on delivering outstanding customer service and being a strong competitor in the consumer electronics space. To ensure we are a successful and sustainable business, we’ve made a number of necessary operational changes.</p> <p> "There will be no Dick Smith Electronics (AU) store closures." Œ</p> Mon, 13 May 2013 17:11:36 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/14/article/Cooking-for-cricketers-Choose-seafood-over-duck---/XSMQARMMOS.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/14/article/Cooking-for-cricketers-Choose-seafood-over-duck---/XSMQARMMOS.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent is always happy to see Australians getting a kick out of appliances, especially when they’re being rewarded for prowess in the kitchen. In fact, winning $7,000 worth of Beko appliances for coming up with a good recipe seems like a great way to show off said prowess.</p> <p> The prize was awarded as part of Betta Home Living’s Matthew Hayden Cooking Competition, which offered one lucky winner the chance to create their own “Dream Kitchen” with $7,000 worth of Beko products from their local Betta store.</p> <p> The winner was Brisbane resident Kristine Menzel who beat out the competition and won the affections of a former test cricketer.</p> <p> "It was the winning combination of simplicity, versatility, fresh produce and spices that edged Kristine Menzel’s recipe ahead of the pack," said BSR Australia Limited CEO, Graeme Cunningham.Œ"Her tantalising Thai green prawn curry had everyone’s mouth-watering, including Matthew Hayden.”</p> <p> Prawns? How very highbrow! UnderCurrent thought Matt Hayden could have been won over with good old fashioned Duck a l’Orange.</p> <p> But maybe duck brings up bad memories for a cricketer...</p> <p> <img alt="" height="330" src="/image/Betta dream kitchen winner.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Left to right: Owner of Knudsen’s Betta Home Living Virginia and Keppera, Torben Knudsen, Dream Kitchen competition winner, Kristine Menzel, and Beko managing director, Mike Goadby. </p> Tue, 14 May 2013 12:50:13 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/13/article/Breville-unveils-Sage-by-Heston-Blumenthal-brand-for-the-Brits/EEWCLDDCUQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/13/article/Breville-unveils-Sage-by-Heston-Blumenthal-brand-for-the-Brits/EEWCLDDCUQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> The Breville Group has today revealed its new United Kingdom brand name will be ‘Sage by Heston Blumenthal’. Sixteen small appliances from Breville’s range will be released on 21 May 2013 through of variety of high street retailers.</p> <p> Breville was forced to devise a new brand for its range in the United Kingdom due to the pre-existence of a separate Breville brand marketing small appliances.</p> <p> In addition to being a spice, ‘sage’ is an old-fashioned word meaning wise.</p> <p> Launch retailers for the range include John Lewis, Selfridges, House of Fraser, Debenhams, Lakeland and Harrods.</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: invert none 0px" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Scott Brady, general manager of marketing at Breville, said Blumenthal himself was part of the pitching process.</p> <p> “Heston has presented the Sage by Heston Blumenthal range to each UK customer,” Brady said. “As an intrinsic brand partner, Heston has helped to explain the benefits of our Australian-designed flagship products, and his partnership with Breville, to a highly receptive audience.</p> <p> “The launch of this new brand represents a significant stage in our global development. We are looking forward to sharing Breville’s passion for solving food challenges with UK home cooks.”</p> <p> To facilitate this expansion, Breville has established a London-based subsidiary called BRG Appliances Ltd, which is headed my new managing director Tim Hossack. As previously reported, David Gubbin recently left his Sydney post to work as Breville’s UK director of sales and marketing.</p> <p> The 16 launch products for Sage by Heston Blumenthal are the Citrus Press, the Scraper Mixer Pro, the Smart Toast 2 slice, the Kitchen Wizz Pro, the Smart Toast 4 slice, the Smart Kettle, the Tea Maker, the Multi Cooker, the Barista Express, the Nutri Juicer, the Kinetix Control blender, the Nutri Juicer Duo, the Control Grip All-in-One, the Nutri Juicer Pro, the Smart Scoop and the Soft Open Kettle.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="350" src="/image/BTM800_Tea_Maker_221_I_PR_Shot_sage (2).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Blumenthal admiring the new Sage by Heston Blumenthal Tea Maker. </p> Mon, 13 May 2013 13:30:32 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/13/article/Hisense-expands-appliance-offering-with-launch-into-laundry/FBXQIFOTBW.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/13/article/Hisense-expands-appliance-offering-with-launch-into-laundry/FBXQIFOTBW.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Hisense is the latest brand to launch into the laundry category, with the Chinese company announcing the imminent launch of two new washing machines for the Australian market. The 6.5-kilogram and 9-kilogram capacity machines will join Hisense’s existing stable of products, which currently includes refrigeration and TVs, and will be launched into the local market in June.</p> <p> “Hisense Australia is proud to enter a new category with two washing machines that offer premium features,” said Andre Iannuzzi, head of marketing, for Hisense Australia. “The washing machine has come to be a standard appliance in every Australian home, we are excited to introduce two models that offer consumers a host of options and Smart features with energy and water consumption in mind.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Coming in under the $1,000 price point, the 6.5-kilogram Front Loader (HWFR6510, RRP $699) and the 9-kilogram Front Loader (HWFR9012V, RRP $899) both feature what Hisense bills as 360° Smart Wash Technology which detects washing conditions, and adjusts wash time, water and power usage, load balancing and detergent levels to optimum levels.</p> <p> The 9-kilogram model also features inverter motor technology “so more efficiency and less noise during wash cycles can be achieved”.</p> <p> “The digital inverter motor uses less energy than motors found in conventional washing machines and allows accurate control of speed and torque without sacrifice of its efficiency,” said Iannuzzi. “Inverter motors are brushless and do not employ electric contacts subject to wear;Œ having few parts they are robust and reliable over a long maintenance free lifespan.”</p> <p> Both the 6.5-kilogram HWFR6510 and the 9-kilogram HWFR9012V will be launching into Australian retail in “early June”.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="426" src="/image/HISENSE_9 kg Front(1).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Hisense's new 9-kilogram front loader.ŒŒ</p> Mon, 13 May 2013 14:13:24 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/13/article/Inside-story-on-Nartas-bid-to-set-minimum-advertising-prices/FVMXZWINWQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/13/article/Inside-story-on-Nartas-bid-to-set-minimum-advertising-prices/FVMXZWINWQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> In a special feature that first appeared in <a href="http://www.intermedia.com.au/print/news-item/appliance-retailer-magazine" target="_blank">Appliance Retailer</a><a href="http://www.intermedia.com.au/print/news-item/appliance-retailer-magazine" target="_blank"> magazine</a>, Patrick Avenell looks at Narta's failed bid to set minimum advertising prices (MAP) on selected products, most notably Beko home appliances.</p> <p> When Beko first launched in Australia in November 2011, it was intended to be a broad, mid-market “European” brand. Foundation managing director Mike Goadby showed off a ‘brand pyramid’, placing Beko on a competitive plane with Blanco, Bosch and Whirlpool.</p> <p> When product starting arriving in early 2012, Beko quickly slotted itself into the market as a de facto house brand for Narta members. Although Goadby originally said the industry was “totally and utterly fed up with price, price, price”, Beko itself become the subject of price competition. One vocal but relatively small Narta member complained that the bigger members were too cheap in their cataloguing of the brand, creating what they believed to be unnecessary competition and price erosion.</p> <p> In the same way that Harvey Norman can source a product range exclusively from a supplier and then coordinate all advertising to have an identical price, with any discount then negotiated at the store level; Narta applied to the ACCC in September 2012 for authorisation to unilaterally set a minimum advertising on some Beko products.</p> <p> Narta requested approval for three types of product: house brands, new release or premium products and Narta exclusives. The inclusion of new release products in its request indicated Narta was casting a wide net on what products it would set minimum prices — potentially new TVs, PCs and gaming consoles — or any other category subject to steep and rapid price declines.</p> <p> To justify its request, Narta offered a long of reasons: it is at a competitive disadvantage to single banner buying groups (‘Harvey Norman’ and ‘The Good Guys’), brand protection for suppliers, technology life cycles are very short and margin pressure is impacting the “viability of some retailers”.</p> <p> Ultimately, Narta’s central and most convincing argument is that other retail groups can already coordinate advertising prices on group buys because they have one universal trading name. Even though Narta members operate under separate shingles, the group buyer should have an equal right to set a minimum price in the various catalogues.</p> <p> Interestingly, Narta indicated to the ACCC that itŒwanted toŒset different MAPs in different geographic regions, “to reflect local market retail considerations”, according to ACCC documents.</p> <p> During the application process, Beko representatives attended a conference with the ACCC, in which it submitted that “an ability to offer marketing consistency, including a MAP, was important to it as a supplier in the current economic climate”.</p> <p> Although Beko was the focus of the application, there is considerable evidence in Narta’s submission that its future plans, had authorisation been granted, were wide-reaching. Narta pointed out that its inability to coordinate advertised prices is inhibiting its ability to source some flagship products. It specifically mentions Sony 3D TVs, Electrolux coffee machines, Panasonic plasma panels and Sharp’s enormous screen TV range as not being made available to Narta members at launch.</p> <p> Narta received support from the Australian Retail Association (ARA).</p> <p> “ARA understands that in the current wholesale market Narta is no longer able to source some premium product lines and exclusive products that are being supplied to Narta member’s major retail competitors,” said executive chair Russell Zimmerman. “Narta members being limited in their product offering in comparison to their competitors in this market is a significant competitive detriment.”</p> <p> To emphasise the level of competition at store level, Zimmerman attached a Bing Lee invoice showing he had received an 11.8 per cent discount (equal to $199) on Beko laundry appliances, at its Carlingford outlet. He claimed that he did not ask for a discount. Broadly speaking, the ACCC will only grant authorisation if it determines that the public benefit will outweigh the public detriment.</p> <p> The ACCC rejected Narta’s application in its final determination, dated 11 April 2013. Its reasons included a belief that minimum advertising prices would result in higher retail selling prices and that having the ability to set MAPs would not make Narta more attractive to suppliers of exclusive products.</p> <p> “The ACCC considers a MAP will reveal to each Narta member, as well as other retailers, the lowest price at which all Narta members will advertise MAP products,” read the ACCC’s final determination. “This will reduce the strength of price competition between retailers.</p> <p> “A MAP will eliminate Narta members’ downward flexibility on the advertising price of a MAP product, leaving only room for an increase in advertising price above a MAP. Without a MAP, Narta members are likely to compete more strongly with each other, including by lowering the advertising price of Exclusive Products.”</p> <p> The ACCC did concede, however, that MAPs could result in more overseas suppliers entering the Australian market, while rejecting Narta’s suggestion that MAPs could deter a supplier from switching to an agency model, which is inherently less competitive.</p> <p> Narta can appeal this decision to the Australian Competitions Tribunal or the Federal Court.</p> Mon, 13 May 2013 13:39:51 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/13/article/ILVE-on-show-at-the-Noosa-Food--Wine-Festival/DOOTNDJKJP.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/13/article/ILVE-on-show-at-the-Noosa-Food--Wine-Festival/DOOTNDJKJP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Eurolinx Australia will be showcasing ILVE major appliances and ILVE by Vintec wine cabinets at the 2013 Noosa International Food & Wine Festival this week. This is the third year ILVE has presented at the show.</p> <p> Targeted at the premium epicure segment, the festival at Lions Park at Noosa Heads has grown from a boutique food and wine tasting in 2004 to a rich tapestry of gourmet culture that attracts some of the biggest names in world gastronomy.</p> <p> Chefs attending the event, running from Thursday 16 May to Sunday 19 May 2013 include Mark Best, Andre Chiang, Peter Gilmore, Tetsuya Wakuda and Peter Doyle, among many, many others.</p> <p> Also presenting at the Festival are musician Timomatic and MasterChef Australia co-host Matt Preston. Œ</p> Mon, 13 May 2013 13:11:28 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/10/article/Cygnett-dumps-Force-Technology-brings-distribution-in-house/OEOWUARHDE.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/10/article/Cygnett-dumps-Force-Technology-brings-distribution-in-house/OEOWUARHDE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Australian smartphone accessories brand Cygnett has ended its distribution agreement with Force Technology, brining its trade sales functions in-house.</p> <p> “Within the Australian market, Force has helped us secure a major Telco presence and establish new retailer channels," said Cygnett CEO Gary Newman.Œ"Due to unprecedented global expansion and, in line with our corporate and logistic strategy around the world, Cygnett wishes to further build key strategic partnerships in the Telco and CE channel.”</p> <p> Cygnett has three internal sales staff: national sales manager Neil Kaberry, national account manager Tony Burke and account manager Brooke Payne.</p> Fri, 10 May 2013 13:56:23 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/10/article/UPDATED-Dick-Smith-dumps-Techxperts-branding-for-Clever-Dick/DUXPSTAGKM.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/10/article/UPDATED-Dick-Smith-dumps-Techxperts-branding-for-Clever-Dick/DUXPSTAGKM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Consumer electronics retailer Dick Smith has dumped its ‘Talk To The Techxperts’ slogan and branding and replaced it with ‘Clever Dick’, Current.com.au can today reveal.</p> <p> Although this change has occurred, neither the old nor new slogan is currently being displayed on the company’s 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; outline: invert none 0px" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> While owned by Woolworths, Dick Smith abandoned its association with the person Dick Smith, removing his visage from its logos and moving towards a more modern, technology based platform to appeal to the youth market. At the time, design expert Derek Carroll from branding agency <a href="http://www.trulydeeply.com.au/madly/2010/02/10/a-missed-opportunity-for-the-dick-smith-brand/" target="_blank">Truly Deeply </a>questioned that move.</p> <p> “The new brand is slick and fashionable if a bit dull. It uses the speech bubble consistently to frame every communication, in what seems to be a forced solution,” said Carroll. “And while the tag line ‘Talk to the Techxperts’ has a natty link into the speech bubble brand device and a painfully trendy use of text language, it leaves me cold. They have replaced the friendly geek with cyborg Techxperts.”</p> <p> The current owners of Dick Smith, Anchorage Capital Partners, have chosen to retain an implied focus on intelligence with ‘Clever Dick’; obeying Polonius’ advice that brevity is the soul of wit while ignoring Falstaff’s warning that the better part of valour is discretion.</p> <p> UPDATE:</p> <p> Dick Smith's media representatives have provided the following clarification to this story:</p> <p> "The Clever Dick service launched over a year ago in early 2012. The Clever Dick service was developed in response to growing feedback from customers who wanted simple and immediate advice on product services and support as well as professional help with setup and installation. Œ "As a business we are committed to providing expert advice and a high level of service for our customers. The service has been well received."</p> <p> ----- Meanwhile, journalist and contributor to Current.com.au Tim Lince has revealed that Dick Smith has lodged two trademark applications for variations on its logo.</p> <p> “The two trade mark applications – TM numbers 1554348 and 1554352 - are for ‘Dick Smith’ logos, with ‘dicksmith.com.au’ text underneath,” reported Lince on his excellent new <a href="http://trademarkwatch.wordpress.com/2013/05/10/dick-smith-lodges-digital-trade-mark/" target="_blank">™Watch website</a>. “They were both lodged on 30 April 2013 by a Dick Smith legal representative, Macpherson & Kelley Lawyers.” Œ</p> Fri, 10 May 2013 13:40:32 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/10/article/Russell-Hobbs-offers-a-British-escape-and-daily-May-giveaways/IFRKTOADLR.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/10/article/Russell-Hobbs-offers-a-British-escape-and-daily-May-giveaways/IFRKTOADLR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> In time for the biggest day of the year for small appliances, Mother’s Day, Russell Hobbs is running a series of daily offers to promote its small appliance range and to drum up interest in its new website and social media presence.Œ</p> <p> Throughout May, the brand is running daily prize draws with products from its breakfast, food prep and garment care ranges up for grabs, with prizes valued at up to RRP $120. Consumers also have a chance to win a larger prize by signing up for updates via the site’s online newsletter.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> For the second year in a row, Russell Hobbs is also spruiking a major prize draw timed to coincide with Mother’s Day, offering a trip for two to London with the purchase of any Russell Hobbs product. The promotion began on 1 April and runs through until 30 June 2013, with proof of purchase entries required by last mail on 5 July (or at 11.59pm AEST for SMS entries).</p> <p> The prize includes return airfares to London, a high tea experience and 7 nights’ accommodation at The Ritz, with $5,000 spending money (transfers and insurance included).</p> <p> Full details on the <a href="http://au.russellhobbs.com/articles/trip-to-london" target="_blank">London holiday prize</a> and the <a href="http://au.russellhobbs.com/articles/may-promotion/" target="_blank">daily small appliance prize giveaways</a> can be found on the new Russell Hobbs website.</p> Fri, 10 May 2013 11:07:38 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/10/article/Fisher--Paykel-appoints-manager-for-event-and-cooking-partnerships/ZWVUYWOYFG.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/10/article/Fisher--Paykel-appoints-manager-for-event-and-cooking-partnerships/ZWVUYWOYFG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Fisher & Paykel has expanded its team with the creation of a new experiential and alliance manager role for Australia. The company has appointed newcomer Julia Morrison to the position, charging her with managing the company’s “experiential marketing activities”.</p> <p> “The creation of this new role reflects our focus on developing leading edge marketing strategies that highlight Fisher & Paykel’s unique and social global branding,” said Fisher & Paykel general manager marketing, Peter Russell.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Morrison joins F&P from Elizabeth Arden Australia, where she held the position of category eventing and promotions manager, and brings more than 10 years of experience in FMCG marketing with her. She will now report to Peter Russell in Fisher & Paykel’s Sydney office.</p> <p> “In her new role, Julia will oversee Fisher & Paykel’s cooking school alliance programme and manage the company’s experiential marketing activities including the Good Food & Wine Show and Grand Designs Live.</p> <p> “Julia’s creativity and project management skills will be a great asset to the wider Fisher & Paykel community. She has a wealth of experience and we are very excited to have her join our team,” said Russell.</p> Fri, 10 May 2013 10:25:36 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/10/article/Bosch-invites-consumers-to-upgrade-from-rival-brands/KDEVZDTLDL.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/10/article/Bosch-invites-consumers-to-upgrade-from-rival-brands/KDEVZDTLDL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Bosch is running a series of promotions encouraging consumers to “Upgrade to Bosch”, withŒfinancial bonuses available across its range of laundry and kitchen appliances, including washing machines, dishwashers and ovens.</p> <p> In the dishwashing category, Bosch is offering a 90 day money back guarantee on all dishwashers in its range, as well as 6 months worth of Finish dishwashing detergent as a bonus on the purchase of new models. This promotion runs from 1 May to 30 June 2013.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; widows: 2; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; widows: 2; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The brand is also offering cashback in the form of electronic funds transfer (via redemption) with a bonus $75 to $400 available on purchases, depending on the model bought. These promotions are valid on purchases from 1 May to 31 July 2013 (unless otherwise stated below):</p> <p> -WTE84101AU Condenser Dryer – Bonus $75 -WVH28440AU Washer Dryer – Bonus $100 -WTW84360AU HeatPump Condenser Dryer – Bonus $150 -WTY88700AU HeatPump Condenser Dryer – Bonus $200 -WTY88700AU HeatPump Condenser Dryer and WAY32540AU Washing Machine (in one transaction) – Bonus $400 -WTW84360AU HeatPump Condenser Dryer and WAY32540AU Washing Machine (in one transaction) – Bonus $250 -WTE84101AU Condenser Dryer and WAY32540AU Washing Machine (in one transaction) – Bonus $175 -HBA63B250A 60-centimetre Pyrolytic Oven – Bonus $75 (valid 1 May to 30 June 2013)</p> <p> Full terms and conditions can be found on the <a href="http://www.bosch-home.com.au/about-bosch/promotions.html" target="_blank">Bosch Australia promotions website</a>.</p> Fri, 10 May 2013 10:06:40 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/09/article/Digital-Radio-should-be-dazzling-industry-tips-for-selling-DAB/FCGOGNVDII.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/09/article/Digital-Radio-should-be-dazzling-industry-tips-for-selling-DAB/FCGOGNVDII.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> As awareness of digital radio in Australia grows and time spent listening to digital radios in the metropolitan capitals climbs, one industry figure has called on retailers to do more to highlight these products as part of a stand-alone category in their stores.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Robert Costello, general manager of sales and marketing at Canohm, distributor of the Sangean brand, says that many retailers are starting to see digital radio as just a feature on audio products, rather than a category in itself. According to Costello, this is the wrong approach.</p> <p> “We should still be dazzling newcomers to the concept with the amazing advantages digital radio has to offer,” said Costello. “Just because we in the industry might be thinking it’s not special anymore, we have to remember there are many people out there who are yet to really experience digital radio and they deserve to be introduced to it in the best way possible.Œ</p> <p> “Industry figures and anecdotal evidence tells us that the sales of digital radio have reached a plateau and are now on a stable course.Œ Presumably early adopters have long ago made their move and we now have sales going to regular radio purchasers taking the obvious step of moving up to the latest technology. So having a strong radio offer in-store should remain an important strategy to all CE retailers.</p> <p> “There aren’t that many new technologies these days that we should be turning our backs on digital radio as still being exciting,” he added. “Let’s keep the hype alive.”</p> <p> To give digital radio the prominence it deserves in stores, Costello said retailers should remember two key things.</p> <p> “Try to ensure you have digital radio reception,” he said. “There are ways to achieve this even if your store is a concrete and steel bunker.</p> <p> “Secondly, know the features and benefits, including high quality stereo sound for all stations, additional stations not on analogue, helpful information displayed on screen and easier tuning by station name, just to mention a few.</p> <p> “If you haven’t tried it yourself you can’t convey the message properly to the customer.”</p> <p> For more information on the latest digital radio products and trends, turn to the May 2013 issue of <a href="http://www.intermedia.com.au/print/news-item/appliance-retailer-magazine" target="_blank">Appliance Retailer </a><a href="http://www.intermedia.com.au/print/news-item/appliance-retailer-magazine" target="_blank">magazine</a>. </p> Thu, 09 May 2013 14:38:29 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/09/article/Toshiba-Confusion-with-Windows-8-slowed-adoption-of-touch-technology/RTBLSYIEYA.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/09/article/Toshiba-Confusion-with-Windows-8-slowed-adoption-of-touch-technology/RTBLSYIEYA.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> While the launch of Windows 8 last year was the shot in the arm the retail industry was hoping would revitalise the computing category, many in the industry have bemoaned the slow take-up of the new technology and poorer than expected sales of new hardware.</p> <p> The managing director of Toshiba Australia Mark Whittard has offered his thoughts on why Windows 8 has been slow to get off the ground and why suppliers did not immediately come to market with a raft of new touch-enabled Windows 8 products.</p> <p> Speaking at the launch of the new <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/Toshiba-shines-light-on-premium-Ultrabook-space-with-Kira-range/LXFAEMOFFI.html" target="_blank">Kira premium Ultrabook range</a> in Sydney yesterday — a range that utilises the touch capabilities of Windows 8 — Whittard said there had been confusion in the marketplace surrounding the new operating system.</p> <p> “I think one of the challenges is there was a lot of confusion with Windows 8,” said Whittard. “My personal view is that [Microsoft] confused the market with a couple of different flavours. First there were two flavours, so why wouldn’t you just go for the entry flavour? And then you found out that you had you to buy a different suite of apps.</p> <p> “There was also that cost differential [for touch capabilities]. People had been used to buying $399, $499, $599 laptops, and suddenly they’re $699, $799. You would only bring in the premium products initially and over time, like all new technology, it will start to come down to those price points.</p> <p> “It takes time for these technologies to...gather momentum. Even Microsoft themselves are still trying to explain what Windows 8 delivers and [they are] putting more emphasis on the touch capabilities of it. It’s like all major new technology, it just takes time to get that momentum, that rolling thunder effect.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Another reason for the slow adoption of the new technology cited by Whittard was the increased discounting that took place in electrical stores as suppliers and retailers alike tried to clear older models.</p> <p> “We had to get out of our Windows 7 stock, all vendors, all retailers,” he said. “And there was a significant amount in the channel, across B2B and B2C, so that had to sell through first. And because that had to sell through first, they were even going for even cheaper than the traditional RRPs.</p> <p> "So the gap wasn’t just the $100 or $200 from non-touch to touch. It was $400. And the customer was saying, ‘Well hang on a sec, that’s starting to get unpalatable, that price differential, just for that touch capability and I’m not sure about this Windows 8 thing’.</p> <p> “And when you’ve got product going out there at $299, clearance, 30 per cent off, buy one get one free, you stimulate the market in another segment.”</p> <p> Despite the slow start, Whittard said he expected the notebook market toŒconsist of 50 per cent touch-enabled products this year, and that Toshiba was “expecting very rapid take up” of the new technology.</p> Thu, 09 May 2013 11:47:15 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/09/article/Myer-shows-slight-improvement-despite-retail-pressures/WVLPYAXBVT.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/09/article/Myer-shows-slight-improvement-despite-retail-pressures/WVLPYAXBVT.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Myer has issued a trading update on its performance over the last six months, showing a slight uptick in sales and profits for the chain of department stores, and outlining its expectations for the remaining six months of the 2013 financial year.</p> <p> In a letter to shareholders released today, Myer chairman Paul McClintock noted that sales for the first half of FY2013 (to 26 January 2013) were $1.73 billion, up 1.7 per cent year-on-year. Gross operating profits were up 2.3 per cent to $714 million, while net profit after tax was $87.9 million, up 0.7 per cent on the first half of FY2012.</p> <p> McClintock said that Myer had found success executing its “strategic plan” despite the difficult retail climate.</p> <p> “Consumer confidence continues to be influenced by a myriad of external factors including cost of living pressures, as well as domestic and global political and economic uncertainty,” he said. “During the half, we also faced a number of increased operational costs associated with labour and occupancy.”</p> <p> Strengths in the Myer business highlighted by McClintock included the retailer’s focus on exclusive brands, its “strengthened” merchandise offer and new store openings in Fountain Gate (Victoria) and Townsville (Queensland) that had be “well received” by consumers.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The retailer also has a strong focus on online retail.</p> <p> “Implementation of our omni-channel strategy continues to be a priority,”Œsaid McClintock. “A significant opportunity exists for us to build on Myer’s strong brand, depth of range and extensive store network to deliver a seamless retail experience however and whenever our customers choose to shop with us.”</p> <p> Looking forwardŒto the remainder of the financial year, McClintock said the company expected the retail climate to remain tough, particularly given the growth of overseas online retailers.</p> <p> “In the second half of 2013, we remain cautious about the trading environment but committed to pursuing opportunities to improve the business,” said McClintock. “The [yearly] result is expected to be impacted by the refurbishment of three of our top 20 stores as well as continued cost headwinds particularly in relation to labour and occupancy.</p> <p> “As a company we continue to be frustrated by the duty and GST loophole that provides overseas online retailers with an advantage over local retailers. The internet has changed traditional retail and it is critical that reforms keep pace to ensure Australian businesses remain competitive.”</p> Thu, 09 May 2013 10:37:46 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/09/article/Retravision-launches-new-website-and-catalogue/ICMHTBINXW.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/09/article/Retravision-launches-new-website-and-catalogue/ICMHTBINXW.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Retravision has unveiled its new-look website, complete with a new catalogue, a <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/Nartas-first-Retravision-branding-campaign-focuses-on-fighting-spirit/JKNKZMXBGD.html" target="_blank">TVC showcasing its retail rebranding</a> and the full list of Retravision locations across Western Australia, Queensland and South Australia. The retailer has also supported the online launch with a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RetravisionAU" target="_blank">reinvigorated Facebook presence</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/RetravisionAU?feature=watch" target="_blank">a dedicated YouTube channel</a>.</p> <p> The site varies slightly from the old Retravision website and the retailer has opted for the traditional Retravision logo, rather than the re-imagined logo that was developed as part of the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/01/16/article/Retravision-rebrand-to-roll-out-nationally-online-store-due-very-shortly/OLYBCTNBCO.html" target="_blank">Retravision rebranding exercise conducted at the start of 2012</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; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px" 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-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Although the site is not transactional and there are only five main pages available to view (with both the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy pages containing only placeholder text), the retailer has launched with an up-to-date catalogue advertising a May Sale with “huge clearance deals on all the best brands” in cooking, whitegoods, floorcare and small appliances.</p> <p> Brands advertised include Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, Whirlpool, Chef, Palsonic, TCL and Sharp, as well as small appliances from Breville, Morphy Richards, Philips, Sunbeam and Tefal. TheseŒsmalls brands are being spruiked as part of a Mother’s Day gift ideas section, in advance of Mother's Day this Sunday.</p> <p> The new Retravision site has drawn attention to its social media presence, with links to Facebook and Youtube pages, however links to Twitter and Pinterest pages lead back to the main Retravision homepage. Although the retailer still has some way to go on the Facebook front (the page had 53 ‘likes’ as of today), the page has been recently updated with content, including a new commercial featuring boxer Danny Green.</p> <p> As part of its new website launch, Retravision is also running a promotion offering a “Bonus Round of Golf” for two at Araluen Golf Resort in Western Australia with the in-store sale of selected products from its catalogue.</p> <p> <a href="http://i.imgur.com/WSvxUjm.png" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="223" src="/image/Retra Homepage_300.bmp" width="300" /></a></p> <p> The new Retravision website, launched this week (click image above for a larger view). </p> <p> <a href="http://i.imgur.com/ovp5ijs.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="353" src="/image/Retra Catalogue1_300.bmp" width="300" /></a></p> <p> Retravision's first catalogueŒ(click image above for a larger view). </p> Thu, 09 May 2013 09:20:35 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/09/article/The-Good-Guys-gets-comfortable-for-Mothers-Day/GISMBETRTA.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/09/article/The-Good-Guys-gets-comfortable-for-Mothers-Day/GISMBETRTA.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> The Good Guys</p> <p> While there are plenty of suppliers offering promotions to boost sales of products in the lead up to Mother’s Day, The Good Guys is also feeling the familial love with a new promotion targeted at Mums.</p> <p> With the sale of selected small appliances, microwaves and floorcare products, The Good Guys is offering Mums a free Canningvale bathrobe, valued at RRP $129. Consumers must purchase an eligible product in one transaction, paid in full, before 13 May (the promotion began on 30 April) and then claim their robe online.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> A number of suitably Mother’s Day-focused products are included in the promotion, including Breville’s Barista Express Espresso Machine (BES870) and the Dyson DC39 Animal Vacuum, as well as personal care and benchtop cooking appliances.</p> <p> The full list of eligible products and terms and conditions can be found on <a href="http://www.thegoodguys.com.au/buyonline/ContentDisplayView?emsName=Promo_09&cm_sp=Homepage-_-Banner-_-BonusBathrobeforMum" target="_blank">The Good Guys’ promotion page</a>.</p> Thu, 09 May 2013 14:15:00 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/Toshiba-shines-light-on-premium-Ultrabook-space-with-Kira-range/LXFAEMOFFI.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/Toshiba-shines-light-on-premium-Ultrabook-space-with-Kira-range/LXFAEMOFFI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Toshiba is citing a plateau in notebook sales as one of the key reasons it is pushing into the premium space, with a new range of “game-changing” Ultrabooks that it says will offer a “new level in luxury computing”. Unveiled at a launch event in Sydney today, the Toshiba Kira range — Japanese for ‘shining light’ — is targeted towards aspirational purchasers and is set to be matched by an equally high-end retail campaign.</p> <p> At the launch, Toshiba Australia managing director Mark Whittard did not dwell onŒintricate technical specifications for the four new Kira Ultrabook models — or ‘Kirabooks’ as he called them — instead choosing to focus on the range’s position in the retail space.</p> <p> “Kira is positioned at the most discerning user,” he said. “It’s uniquely crafted from high grade materials, engineered with the latest technologies and it embodies all of Toshiba’s heritage. We went to our engineers and said, ‘If you could build the best notebook computing platform, what would you do?’.”</p> <p> According to Whittard, those engineers came back with features such as Harman Kardon sound systems and a 2,560 x 1,140 Pixel Pure HD display, as well as 256GB storage and 8GB memory across the range. The four models in the range vary in weight, processing power and touchscreen capabilities, though all feature a brushed magnesium alloy body with an internal honeycomb structure designed for durability without excess weight.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Accompanying this drive into the premium Ultrabook space is a new monochrome strategy towards retail —Œnew sleek and minimalist black packaging and a “white glove” sales service to accompany the product.</p> <p> “It’s all about the end-to-end experience when [consumers] buy this product — they see it on the shelf, it inspires desire,” said Whittard. “It’s inspirational just in its packaging. You have to market things differently, it’s a dog eat dog world out there, so little things sometimes make a big difference.”</p> <p> Toshiba will also be offering a two-year premium worldwide warranty with two years of phone hotline support with the aim of building a high-end experience for “discerning” customers and thereby building brand loyalty.</p> <p> “Our intention is to keep Kira customers for life, and to give them the next inspirational product when they’re ready to change over,” said Whittard.</p> <p> With the launch of the Kira range, Toshiba is also keen “to take more control” of the way the product is delivered to consumers, according to the company’s MD.</p> <p> “You’ve got to educate the retailer, you’ve got to educate the rep on the shop floor, you’ve got to pull it out of the clutter of all of the computers along the computer table and put it out on its own.</p> <p> “That box is an example of the point-of-sale of Kira that you’ll see in store. And then what we’re going to do is put as much information and material on that point of sale, so the customer can answer a lot of the questions themselves by simply walking out, touching and feeling and reading about the product.”</p> <p> While Toshiba hopes to stand out on its own on the shop floor with the new Kirabooks, plans for a dedicated Toshiba store — akin to the shopfronts opened by the likes of Apple and Samsung — may be still a while off. Whittard admitted that the brand had “absolutely” looked into the concept, but would only go it alone “if it makes sense”.</p> <p> “Never say never,” said Whittard. “It’s an investment and you’ve got to look at the return on investment — it’s not cheap to go into premises, particularly in CBDs. [It’s a matter of] whether the Toshiba brand can justify and stand alone as a store, or whether we’re better off sitting in a store-in-store concept.</p> <p> “We’re looking at store-in-store concepts, we’re looking at kiosk concepts, we’re looking at store concepts.”</p> <p> The Kira is available now from major retailers, starting at RRP $1,799 for the entry-level model and going up to $2,199 for the top-of-the-line Ultrabook.</p> <p> Œ</p> <p> <img alt="" height="227" src="/image/KIRA_FRONT_LT45.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> The Kira Ultrabook.</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/image/Toshiba Kira Closed.JPG" /></p> <p> At launch today, the Magnesium alloy device was surrounded by suitably zen displays.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="371" src="/image/Toshiba Kira Tall POS.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> New signage promoting Toshiba's "precision in every detail" tagline. (The magnifying glass can be used to read the tiny words which form the shape of the computer's shadow).</p> Wed, 08 May 2013 13:43:47 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/Electrolux-shows-off-long-life-stick-vacuum-and-very-holy-irons/OMKOEKGFFN.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/Electrolux-shows-off-long-life-stick-vacuum-and-very-holy-irons/OMKOEKGFFN.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Electrolux’s mid-year small appliance range is focused on ironing and floorcare, with new products pitched at the premium end of both markets.</p> <p> In addition to these categories, Electrolux is continuing with its stick mixer range and adjusting the price of its Lavazza capsule coffee machine to RRP $299.</p> <p> At a product showcase in Sydney yesterday, Noel Hsu, product marketing manager for floorcare, showed off the Electrolux’s new Ultrapower Plus stick vac (RRP $399). This 25.2 Volt cleaner has an advertised battery life of up to one hour off only a 4-hour charge. The battery is also interchangeable, meaning a user can keep one spare for longer tasks. If a consumer were to buy three extra batteries, they could conceivably keep vacuuming forever.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="314" src="/image/UltraPower close up.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Headlights make it easier to clean in dark corners.</p> <p> One step down from this in the range is the Ultrapower 24 Volt stick vac (RRP $319), which has a fixed Ni-MH battery, compared to the Plus’s Lithium-ion battery, and an advertised run time of up to 50 minutes.</p> <p> For consumers looking for the convenience of a stick vac with an integrated handheld cleaner, Electrolux offers the 18 Volt Ergorapido 2in1 (RRP $299). This nifty cleaner is great for spot cleaning in one room, while the handheld cleaner snaps off from the front for sucking up debris from chairs, lounges and car seats, for example. This unit has battery life up to 30 minutes.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In garment care, Electrolux has three models in its range, which is clearly targeted at the higher end of the market.</p> <p> Product marketing manager Marine Pestel said that after going on a ‘garment care shopping safari’, she determined that the older a person is, the more money they are willing to spend on their iron. The main questions consumers are asking, she said, were “How does it feel in the hand?” and “How big is the soleplate?”.</p> <p> The Electrolux range has 600-plus holes in the soleplate, making it one of the holiest on the market, and an ergonomic handle supporting a sturdy main body.</p> <p> The premium model can dispense 130 grams of “turbo steam” in multiple repetitive bursts, which is excellent for removing tough wrinkles (and fun too), self-cleaning to avoid fuss and a permanent anti-scale guarantee.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/UltraSteam Iron ESI750S $129.jpg" width="339" /></p> <p> Electrolux's premium iron is available in silver for RRP $129. Also available is a 120-gram steamer in red (RRP $119) and a 110-gram model for RRP $99.</p> <p> In related news, Pestel confirmed to Current.com.au that Electrolux will be expanding its small appliance range into more food prep categories in early 2014.</p> Wed, 08 May 2013 13:36:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/Panasonic-Australia-announces-new-head-of-marketing-and-communications/TPBNLSOILF.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/Panasonic-Australia-announces-new-head-of-marketing-and-communications/TPBNLSOILF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Panasonic Australia has promoted Daniel Preiss to the national marketing communications manager role, replacing Gemma Lemieux. Preiss was formerly the head of digital marketing services for Panasonic, and has previously been the company’s sponsorship manager.</p> <p> The only further comment Panasonic Australia made regarding this announcement was this:</p> <p> “As part of his role, Mr Preiss will oversee the scope of Panasonic’s marketing activities across the company’s consumer and business product groups in Australia.”</p> <p> Preiss' marketing experience includes stints with the Sydney Swans Australian Rules football club and the New South Wales state government. He describes himself as a "results-oriented marketing professional with a breadth and depth of experience in the consumer, commercial alliance, and digital industry". Œ</p> Wed, 08 May 2013 11:15:08 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/ACCC-issues-winter-warning-after-spate-of-recalls-in-2012/KZXIRSZDAU.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/ACCC-issues-winter-warning-after-spate-of-recalls-in-2012/KZXIRSZDAU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> As winter begins to descend, the ACCC has issued a timely reminder for consumers and retailers about the safety of electrical heating products in the winter months, asking Australians to be mindful of products that have been recalled due to electrical faults.</p> <p> Faulty heaters and electric blankets are listed as two of the major dangers for consumers in the winter months, with the ACCC confirming that almost 400,000 products from the electric blanket category alone were recalled last year.</p> <p> “If faulty, electric blankets can overheat, cause an electric shock, spark and potentially cause a fire,” said ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard. “Almost 400,000 potentially faulty electric blankets were recalled last year. Check the Recalls Australia website <a href="http://www.recalls.gov.au">www.recalls.gov.au</a> to make sure yours isn’t one of them.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> While recall numbers were not as high in heater category, faulty heaters can also be potentially life-threatening products to keep in the house according to Rickard.</p> <p> “Faulty heaters can overheat, cause an electric shock, spark and potentially cause a fire,” she said. “Additionally, if heaters are placed too close to furniture or if clothes or other items are placed on a heater, the heat could cause the item to ignite.</p> <p> “Over 41,000 potentially faulty heaters were recalled last year so check to make sure yours isn’t one of them. Do not place heaters too close to furniture in your home, or place clothes on your heater.”</p> <p> Consumers are advised to check in with the ACCC to see if previously purchased products have been recalled before they use them.</p> <p> “[Consumers can] download the free iPhone or Android Recalls Australia app to ensure that none of your warmers have been recalled before winter starts,” said Rickard.Œ</p> <p> The ACCC also warned consumers about the dangers of using faulty hot water bottles and microwavable wheat bags. Wheat bags in particular have been subject to increased scrutiny in recent weeks, with New South Wales Deputy State Coroner Paul MacMahon recommending increased safety precautions for the products, after <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-04-30/coroner-recommends-public-warning-over-wheat-bag-fire-risk/4661084" target="_blank">investigating a deadly fire caused by a wheat bag in 2011</a>.</p> Wed, 08 May 2013 09:53:13 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/Nartas-first-Retravision-branding-campaign-focuses-on-fighting-spirit/JKNKZMXBGD.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/Nartas-first-Retravision-branding-campaign-focuses-on-fighting-spirit/JKNKZMXBGD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell and James Wells</p> <p> The new Retravision retail network, administrated by Narta since 1 April 2013, will soon launch a branding campaign built around “great stores” run by “great people” that are “as local as you”, as explained by West Australian boxing champion Danny Green in a new television commercial.</p> <p> “We have aligned with the West Australian boxer Danny Green, who is an icon in the West in particular, but also across the country,” said Narta chief operation officer Michael Jackson.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> </p> <p> Retravision’s previous state-based entities tended to run their own marketing and branding campaigns. Retravision WA was a long-time sponsor of the Western Warriors state cricket team while Retravision Southern had completed a major rebranding exercise shortly before collapsing in May 2012.</p> <p> Jackson described Narta’s approach to Retravision’s new campaign as something different from the usual.</p> <p> “We have filmed a series of television commercials with Danny that represent a separate branding campaign to the traditional marketing we have in the marketplace,” he said.</p> <p> “The television commercials communicate how Danny, like Retravision, has battled through adversity and the importance of the brand as a local and family orientated business.”</p> <p> “We are not using the television advertisements to concentrate on products or pricing, it about telling consumers that we are Retravision and that even when we get knocked down we get back up again. The message is not about boxing, but about fighting to be the best at what you do.”</p> <p> While the first version of the advertisement to be made public focuses on the regional pride many in the West exude, Jackson said different ads have been shot and edited for other media markets.</p> <p> “We are conscious of the Retravision stores in the states and territories outside Western Australia and the advertising will be reworded to be tailored for these markets, but essentially the message is the same: Retravision is here to stay.”Œ</p> Tue, 07 May 2013 12:55:46 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/JB-Hi-Fi-succeeding-in-the-online-space-by-following-individual-strategy/NGJCCYRDJK.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/JB-Hi-Fi-succeeding-in-the-online-space-by-following-individual-strategy/NGJCCYRDJK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi is winning the ‘omnichannel’ war and, as a result, its share price is underperforming on the Australian Securities Exchange, according to analysis by Grant Saligari and James O’Brien from Credit Suisse.</p> <p> Over the last 18 months, the major public retailers have consistently announced online and mobile selling strategies, abstractly dubbed the ‘omnichannel’, which have mostly been unconvincing, according to experts.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Following its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/JB-Hi-Fi-revises-profit-forecasts-after-stronger-than-expected-sales/XIJVEEPFYO.html" target="_blank">encouraging profit forecast released last week</a> and the launch of JB NOW Books and Video to complement Music, Credit Suisse has given a positive appraisal of JB’s online operations.</p> <p> “JB Hi-Fi appears to be having some success in expanding online sales,” wrote Saligari and O’Brien. “During the first three months of calendar 2013, Nielsen data is showing its unique audience is up 19 per cent year-on-year and conversion rates steady at around 8 per cent.”</p> <p> Maintaining a stable conversion rate while increasing traffic means JB Hi-Fi’s online sales are growing, as is its comparable in-store revenue, which is up 3.3 per cent for Australians stores.</p> <p> While rival retailers Harvey Norman, The Good Guys and Betta Home Living focus their online sales on selling core categories in a digital environment, JB Hi-Fi has expanded into soft sales, which don’t require stock holdings or physical delivery costs. JB Hi-Fi has also experimented with parallel importing, supplier runouts and exclusive lines. Œ</p> Tue, 07 May 2013 11:53:01 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/Uniden-Baby-Monitor-gets-the-thumbs-up-from-new-Dad/HBKOJZADSX.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/Uniden-Baby-Monitor-gets-the-thumbs-up-from-new-Dad/HBKOJZADSX.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> As we recently reported, Uniden is releasing its new Baby Monitor range in July 2013. Although this category has been around for decades, originally with just audio options, it has become a lot more interesting since video technology was added and new players, such as Sony, entered the market.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> We asked Matthew, friend of the website and father of 9-month-old Isaac, to write down his thoughts on the Uniden Baby Monitor for a special guest review:</p> <p> “My wife and I are very happy with our Uniden Baby Monitor.</p> <p> “Firstly, it provides a crystal clear picture of our child as he sleeps, as well as sounds to alert us when he stirs.</p> <p> “The advantage that the monitor offers is not having to check on him every time he makes a sound. We can see if he's just rolling over and will go back to sleep, has lost his dummy and needs it back, or if he has genuinely woken and requires nursing to put him back to sleep.</p> <p> “The monitor is portable and we have tested it at our in-laws — it can go through two levels in the house and still offers good picture quality and sound — a feature we found to be rare in baby monitors when shopping for them.</p> <p> “The camera comes with a mount and can be moved to suit the situation, which we've found quite handy when putting our boy in portable cots at various friends’ and relatives’ houses.”</p> <p> You can read more about <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/Domestic-espionage-with-Unidens-new-Guardian-and-Baby-Watch-ranges/ZHEZTBAWTV" target="_blank">Uniden’s new Baby Monitor range</a> and <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/01/29/article/Sony-diversifies-into-a-new-category-with-Baby-Monitor/PXTGZIZFWX" target="_blank">Sony’s debut range</a> by clicking on this links in this sentence.</p> Tue, 07 May 2013 10:43:08 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/Sunbeam-FP-and-Breville-dominate-Good-Design-announcement/VGGCDVHMTZ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/Sunbeam-FP-and-Breville-dominate-Good-Design-announcement/VGGCDVHMTZ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Sunbeam, Fisher & Paykel and Breville are among the appliance companies awarded Good Design recognition after the judging for the 2013 Australian International Design Awards. A total of 29 appliances will compete to be named the Best in Category at the Awards ceremony in Sydney later this month.</p> <p> Joining these three in competition for a major award are Electrolux, Nespresso, Jura and Philips, while some lesser known brands, such as Prep, CoolTec, Gecko and LotusGrill, have also qualified for this round of the competition.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Good Design Award – Domestic Appliances</p> <p> BeefEater BUGG Breville’s The Multi Chef Breville’s The Original ‘74 Breville’s The Thermal Pro Grill CoolTec Electric Shaver Dyson Digital Slim Mk2 Dyson Hot + Cool AM05 Everdure E Churrasco GWA Epure Zone Fisher & Paykel Companion range Fisher & Paykel 60cm Built-in Oven Fisher & Paykel CleanSmart 10kg TopLoad Washing Machine Gecko Bug Zappers JURA Automatic Frother JURA ENA Micro 1 Kenwood Mulitpro Sense Food Processor LotusGrill BBQ Masha by Prep Nespresso U Philips PerfectCare Aqua SodaStream Australia SodaStream Source Sunbeam Café Series Espresso Machine EM7000 Sunbeam Cafe Series Variable Temperature Kettle Sunbeam Maestro 2 Slice Toaster Thermomix UltraCaptic bagless vacuum cleaner by Electrolux Group Design Small Appliance Westinghouse 90cm Freestanding Cooker</p> <p> UPDATE: Breville Australia has taken the opportunity to send over a quotation expressing their happiness at this recognition, as well as three Red Dot gongs recently bestowed up the Thermal Pro Grill, Multi Chef and Kinetix Control blender:</p> <p> “In both the Red Dot and Australian International Design Award programs, the Thermal Pro Grill and the Multi Chef stood out for their elaborate and innovative designs, meeting the program’s search for excellence and best in class design,” said Richard Hoare, Breville director of design and innovation.</p> <p> “With Breville’s expansion internationally, awards such as Red Dot offer significant value to our new markets. However, as an Australian company with a very experienced and talented design team, the Australian International Design Awards are particularly special to us as the judging process is one of the most thorough of the international awards programs.”</p> <p> While the major brands have dominated the Domestic Appliance category, the Consumer Electronics award is heavily populated by smaller, emerging brands. Of the 16 finalists granted Good Design status, only two — Pentax and Kobo — could claim any global status. Joining these in the contention for the Best in Category award are niche brands such as JBL, MOD, HEX3 and Blackmagic.</p> <p> Good Design Award – Consumer Electronics</p> <p> Blackmagic Cinema Camera BlueAnt Q3 Premium Smartphone Earpiece BlueAnt Ribbon Stereo Bluetooth Streamer iiNet Budii HEX3 AppTag HD HEX3 JaJa Pressure Sensitive Stylus Hive security camera iDECT ECLIPSE 8035 Digital Cordless Phone System with Answering Machine JBL PowerUp Wireless Charging Speaker for Nokia Kobo Arc Kobo Glo MOD Live Heads-up Display for alpine goggles Pentax MX-1 Pure Jongo S3 RØDE iXY Native Union Switch</p> <p> Appliance and electronics brands awarded Good Design in other categories include Laurastar (Housewares and Objects), Motorola (Commercial and Industrial), Philips (Medical and Scientific), and Dyson (Architectural and Interiors).</p> <p> The 2013 Australian International Design Awards will be held in Sydney on Thursday 30 May 2013.</p> Tue, 07 May 2013 10:11:32 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/Buy-a-washing-machine-shoot-an-albatross/OUJMWCDOAO.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/07/article/Buy-a-washing-machine-shoot-an-albatross/OUJMWCDOAO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent is not quite sure what the link is between washing machines and golf but it sure is interested to find out:</p> <p> </p> <p> It's worth noting that this offer has already ended so if any readers out there would like to send in their scorecards please get in touch in the comment box below.</p> Tue, 07 May 2013 12:01:10 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/06/article/Ultimate-guide-to-small-appliances-for-Mothers-Day-2013/RTVLNQDEZZ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/06/article/Ultimate-guide-to-small-appliances-for-Mothers-Day-2013/RTVLNQDEZZ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Executive Summary:</p> <p> -Colour is still big business but there is a noticeable move to more subdued and traditional hues. -Breakfast sets are a good way to upsell consumers with an extra sale — and matching toasters and kettles look great together. -Slow cooking is on the way out and pressure cooking is now in fashion. -Appliances that can chop food straight into the bowl are tipped to perform well.</p> <p> ----</p> <p> After a dazzling year of bright bold colours, small appliance manufacturers are adding a new layer to their benchtop collections — the fluoros are being painted over with more traditional, subdued colours.</p> <p> 2013 is an exciting year for De’Longhi Australia. After great success with its De’Longhi and Kenwood brands, the group will begin distributing the Braun range of household appliances this year as part of its global acquisition from Proctor & Gamble.</p> <p> With this distribution now commencing, De’Longhi has a very strong small appliances story in the local market, focusing on the mid-to-high end of the market. Marketing manager Filiz Bensan said the focus wouldn’t be on a large volume of SKUs but on targeted models in growth categories.</p> <p> “We don’t want to have a broad range,” she said. “We want to have a concentrated range in the mid-to-premium end of the market.</p> <p> “The De’Longhi Icona range has done exceptionally well for us and we’ve been astounded by the results we have achieved. In the $100-plus segment we have the largest share at over 30 per cent in toasters and kettles, and that is the fastest growing price segment within the breakfast category.</p> <p> “We have been key drivers of that, not only with De’Longhi but also the launch of Kenwood kMix range has contributed to this.”</p> <p> Bensan said De’Longhi would be building on that momentum in 2013, continuing its heretofore winning formula of good products, attractive marketing and consumer promotions.</p> <p> Kenwood’s Mother’s Day range is focused more on upgrades to existing products than totally new product launches.</p> <p> The new Cooking Chef (KM080, RRP $1,999) is replacing the KM070 with a number of improvements on the previous model. The three main upgrades are a new Flexi Beater for a much improved whisking performance, Thermo Resist Glass Blender and Tritan material food processor. Tritan refers to the robust plastic material used in the processor attachment. Resistant to cracking and breaking, this is lighter than other materials, making it easier to take in and out of cupboards.</p> <p> Replacing the KM023 is the new Chef Major Titanium Mega Pack (KMM023, RRP $1,499). This 1,500-watt stainless steel benchtop mixer comes with K-Beater, Dough Hook and Whisk attachments, as well as a Thermo Resist Glass Blender and a food processor.</p> <p> For RRP $999, there is the new Chef Major Titanium (KMM020), which replaces the KM020. This unit has similar specifications to the Mega Pack but does not include the blender or food processor.</p> <p> Kenwood has completely upgraded and refreshed its Patissier food mixer range, adding four new colours (teal, brown, pink and ‘nude’). The new models include Kenwood’s redesigned Flexi Beater, 700 watts of power, an upgraded speed dial and a painted white bowl finish. These models are RRP $399.</p> <p> Brand new to the Kenwood range is the Multipro Sense Food Processor (FPM810, RRP $499). This 1,000-watt unit has an In-Bowl Dual Drive motor, as opposed to an induction motor, enabling greater operational flexibility, according to Bensan. Included attachments include a knife blade; dough tool; dual whisk and julienne, slicing and grating discs. This model will sit in between Kenwood’s FP980 (RRP $699) and FP950 (RRP $429) in its processor range.</p> <p> The final new addition to the Kenwood range is in its colourful kMix collection. A new version of the Australia International Design Award winning Quad Blade Chopper (CH250) will be added to this collection, so previous consumers of this range can add this acclaimed appliance to their collection.</p> <p> The major news for the De’Longhi brand is the launch of the Icona Vintage Breakfast Collection, first unveiled at IFA in Berlin last year. This collection comprises a kettle (RRP $149), a 2-slice toaster (RRP $149), a 4-slice toaster (RRP $189) and a pump espresso coffee machine (RRP $299).</p> <p> The Icona Vintage will be available in black, brown, chrome, green and blue and builds on the tremendous success of the original Icona range, which will also continue.</p> <p> De’Longhi has a very expansive media campaign planned for this launch, including print advertising, billboards, mail outs, promotional videos, a dedicated website and public relations activities. To help ‘drive’ sales, De’Longhi will be giving away five Vespa scooters to consumers who purchase products in the range up until 14 May 2013.</p> <p> Discussing De’Longhi’s new Braun distribution, Bensan the focus will start on the German brand’s stick mixers before growing throughout 2013.</p> <p> “We will be starting off with the current products,” Bensan said. “Then, going into the second half of the year, those products are going to be reviewed and we are going to see how we can broaden that range.</p> <p> “We know from history that Braun has always been strong in stick mixers. With a renewed focus, we feel that we can get those categories and Braun’s positions into a stronger hold than what they currently are.</p> <p> “There will be investment above and below the line. The brand has a very high awareness: it’s very strong in stick mixers, ironing and personal care. We don’t have to communicate a brand awareness story but we need the appropriate products to suit our consumers.”</p> <p> Braun’s 2013 mixer range will start at RRP $119 for MR330 and go up to the MR730 at RRP $249.</p> <p> Pedro Demartini is now in his second year as the marketing director for Tefal, and he’s looking to maintain and strengthen the momentum of this French brand in the Australian market.</p> <p> “The small appliance market has experienced consistent growth in the last few years due to the increasing need from consumers for convenience, health and comfort at home,” he said. “Additionally, we see the role of technology taking a great part in the future of this market as it has already happened in other segments such as mobile phones.”</p> <p> Although Smart technology has begin infiltrating televisions and major appliances, talk of Smart Smalls has so far been sparse. Demartini said Tefal would be leading this “revolution”.</p> <p> “We called the smart appliance revolution — it will combine the latest technology with existing and new small appliance products, delivering to consumers solutions that not only will save them time but also help them to achieve a perfect result every time.”</p> <p> Groupe SEB will launch two products for Mother’s Day that Martini promises will “change the way consumers cook delicious meals and also drive strong sales for our retail partners in this key period of the year”.</p> <p> The first is the next iteration of Tefal’s successful ActiFry product, the ActiFry 2-in-1 (YV9601, RRP $399). This model adds a second cooking zone to the ActiFry, enabling users to cook meat in the built-in fry pan while simultaneously cooking chips, vegetables or risotto, for example, in the bowl underneath.</p> <p> Tefal’s second new small appliance is the Cook4Me Intelligent Multi Cooker (CY7018, RRP $349). This unit comes preloaded with 80 recipes, most of which can be cooked in under 11 minutes.</p> <p> Also new to the range are two new models in Tefal’s Fresh Express range. Tefal claims to be number one in the chopper segment with the original Fresh Express, which is now being relaunched as the 150-watt Fresh Express Plus (MB755, RRP $69).</p> <p> New features include a wavy slicing cone, a full metal grating cone and an extended chute for chopping straight into the bowl. Taking the benchtop chopper up a notch is the Fresh Express Max, which includes all the features of the Plus model, with the addition of a Turbo Boost speed function, a wider feeding tube, and 260 watts of power.</p> <p> “All our key launches will be supported by strong promotional activity, in-store presence and on-going demonstration program,” said Martini.</p> <p> Another relatively new player in the small appliances category is Richard Babekuhl, who joined Breville as its marketing communications manager from Electrolux last year. He said that he already noticed differences between the two major gift giving seasons: Christmas and Mother’s Day.</p> <p> “Mother’s Day is a popular time for food preparation products, with new food programs set to screen on TV and autumn signalling a seasonal shift towards more baking and cooking at home,” he said. “Gift giving for Mother’s Day is both about aspirational as well as high quality purchases, unlike other gift giving periods where novelty products share the stage.”</p> <p> Breville’s focus on “high quality” products has grown significantly over the past decade. Not content to be a ‘me-too’ brand following trends and using price as a differentiator, Breville has repeatedly introduced new small appliance concepts at the premium end. Examples of this include its new Sous Vide Supreme and the Juice Fountain Crush released before Christmas 2012.</p> <p> For Mother’s Day, Breville is releasing the “Swiss Army Knife of the kitchen”, the All In One Processing Station with Control Grip (BSB530). Building on the growth in hand mixers from 2012, the All In One combines blending, mashing and chopping into a single box set. Attachments include a quad-blade chopper, an adjustable slicing disc, variable control masher and a 1.6-litre bowl.</p> <p> To assist in storage, the All In One comes with a dedicated stand to hold the appliance and the accessories in a compact form factor.</p> <p> “We will launch a national TV campaign around Mother’s Day featuring the new Breville All in One processing station,” confirmed Babekuhl. “We anticipate this will create consumer interest and result in driving foot traffic to the stores, based on our experience with previous TV campaigns.</p> <p> “This is supported with the All in One in-store display, which has been developed to simply illustrate the value, versatility and compact storage benefits of this new release.</p> <p> For more intensive processing and blending tasks, Breville has merged the technology of its Kitchen Wizz and Kinetix appliances to create the versatile Kinetix Wizz (BFP450, RRP $199). The robust base of this unit holds an 800-watt direct drive motor that can power either a 1.6 litre processing square jug for blending or a 2-litre processing bowl.</p> <p> In the lead up to Mother’s Day, consumers of Breville’s Mixer range (BEM800 and BEM410) will receive the new Scraper Whisk and 3-litre mixing bowl accessory (BBA600, RRP $99) as a gift-with-purchase. Designed specifically to whisk cream and eggs into lighter and fluffier textures, the Scraper Whisk will also be sold separately for existing Breville Mixer customers.</p> <p> “The gift with purchase of our new Scraper Whisk will also push Breville bench mixer sales, adding value for the consumer and introducing additional sales opportunities for retailers post Mother’s Day.”</p> <p> Breville’s final Mother’s Day hero product is the Gourmet Baker breadmaker (BBM400, RRP $199). In addition to make a full range of breads and having a dedicated fruit and nut dispenser, the Gourmet Baker comes with baguette trays for making mini French Sticks, jam and compote functions and a 17-centimetre cake pan.</p> <p> Sunbeam’s focus for the first half of 2013 is on promoting its new Mother’s Day range through its long-running association with popular TV franchises MasterChef and My Kitchen Rules. Both these programs have been ratings hits over the past few years and the advantage for Sunbeam is that in addition to screen advertisements during the commercial breaks, consumers also get to see the contestants use the appliances during the show.</p> <p> “These shows ignite the desire for consumers to have fun in the kitchen and to be adventurous and creative, preparing delicious meals for friends and family that they can enjoy together,” said Sunbeam product marketing manager — food preparation, Lisa Buscomb. “Food processors, in particular, are an important tool in the kitchen in preparing quick meals.”</p> <p> Sunbeam is launching a range of new food processors for Mother’s Day, including the Multiprocessor Compact (LC5000, RRP $149), the Food Processor (LC7900, RRP $299) and the Café Series Food Processor (LC9000, RRP $399).</p> <p> To take advantage of existing and further growth in pressure cooking, Buscomb announced the release of the Aviva Pressure Cooker (PE6100, RRP $189), which also includes slow, rice, steam, brown, simmer and sauté functions.</p> <p> “Pressure Cookers are a great solution for time-poor home cooks,” she said. “The Pressure Cooker category is the strongest growth category in the cooking market and has grown considerably in the past few years.”</p> <p> Sunbeam is also launching into the Sous Vide category. Its first model is the Duos Sous Vide (MU4000, RRP $199), which combines vacuum sealed water bath cooking with slow cooking for additional functionality.</p> <p> “This is the first Sous Vide in the market to be designed for the domestic market and it is multifunctional,” said Buscomb. As mentioned earlier, although Breville does have the Sous Vide Supreme in its range, that machine was not strictly designed for Australia, as Breville category manager — cooking, Sharon Lenzner explained:</p> <p> “The brand Sous Vide Supreme is owned by Eades Appliances Technology,” she said. “This co-branding agreement has enabled this new technology to be now available nationally in consumer retail outlets. Previously Sous Vide Supreme could only be purchased online through limited channels. Breville has contributed tremendous engineering resources so that the product now complies to Australian standards.</p> <p> Buscomb said Sunbeam’s Sous Vide appliances offers an extra function, slow cooking, as this is still a very arcane category.</p> <p> “The Sous Vide market is quite niche at the moment, so Sunbeam has designed the Sunbeam Duos as a Sous Vide and a Slow Cooker to provide greater versatility to the home chef.</p> <p> “The Sous Vide water oven has a domestic 5.5-litre capacity, is incredibly easy to use and is designed with electronic temperature control and countdown timer.”</p> <p> Finally, Sunbeam has refreshed its breakfast appliance offering with the launch of the Maestro toaster and the Retro toaster and kettle.</p> <p> “In kettles and toasters, consumers are looking for new features that will make their lives easier and also help them to make their perfect cup of tea or that perfect slice of toast,” continued Buscomb.</p> <p> “Sunbeam’s new Maestro toasters have a dual function LCD panel that displays the selected browning setting and a countdown timer to let consumers know how long is left before the toast is ready. QuickCheck features also let the user check the progress of the toast at any time without interrupting the toasting cycle, helping consumers achieve the perfect colour and crunch.”</p> <p> The Maestro toaster is available with two (TA6240, RRP $99) and four slice varieties (TA6440, RRP $129). The Retro toaster is RRP $79 for two slices and $99 for four slices (TA5200/5400). The Retro kettle is RRP $99 (KE5200).</p> <p> Buscomb outlined a comprehensive marketing campaign to support retailers during the Mother’s Day period.</p> <p> “Sunbeam is committed to supporting the brand and key product ranges with strong, innovative in-store execution, as well as through a range of media including TV placement, sponsorship, TV campaigns, digital content, print and in-store promotional material,” she said.</p> <p> For the first time since its classic Young Talent Time advertisement in the early 1980s, Kambrook will be making a sizable media buy to promote its small appliances in the lead-up to Mother’s Day. Marketing manager Adam Tacey said Kambrook is looking to build on its strong 2012 performance with reliable products at competitive price points.</p> <p> “Kambrook has performed well in the cooking and food preparation categories over the past 12 months and we expect sales in the build-up to Mother’s Day to be strong,” he said. “Food preparation appliances are becoming more highly featured as consumers demand multifunction.</p> <p> “We are building on the features of each product but the price remains affordable, making Kambrook a popular brand of choice.”</p> <p> Kambrook’s product releases for Mother’s Day are built around the concept of “One Pot Wonders”. There will be three new small appliances released with this tagline for Mother’s Day — the Turbo Convection Oven (KOT900, RRP $99), the Soup Simple Soup Maker (KBL600, RRP $99) and the Pressure Express Digital Pressure Cooker (KPR800, RRP $119) — joining the existing Super Sear Cooker (KSC700, RRP $99) in the range.</p> <p> Of these new releases, Tacey predicts the Pressure Express will have the biggest impact.</p> <p> “This year we expect to see an increase in the pressure cooker market. Unlike slow cooking, pressure cooking is a solution for the time-poor home cook,” he said. “As more consumers become aware of the benefits of pressure cooking, sales should continue to rise.</p> <p> “With safety a key concern for customers looking to purchase a pressure cooker, Kambrook’s latest offering in this category offers three separate safety mechanisms.”</p> <p> Kambrook has also beefed up its food preparation range for Mother’s Day. The new PowerMix Stand Mixer (KSM400, RRP $129) has small and large stainless steel bowls, 12 speed settings and a 600-watt motor. In the hand mixing category, Kambrook has the new X Blade Food Prep System (KSB100, RRP $69), which includes a chopping bowl and a blending jug, a mashing attachment and stainless steel blades.</p> <p> “All of our new releases boast plenty of features while still promising an affordable price from a known and trusted small appliance name,” Tacey said. “We hope to cater for all tastes and budgets with our most comprehensive Mother’s Day range to date, without forgetting our brand promise of durability, safety and performance.”</p> <p> Electrolux Small Appliances is approaching its first Mother’s Day since expanding into more categories in addition to its very successful floorcare ranges. Launched towards the end of 2012, Electrolux’s small appliance range is tightly focused on categories experiencing growth in the Australian market.</p> <p> Its first benchtop appliances are two Turbopro stick mixers: a red model with mini-chopper and double whisk attachments for RRP $139 and a black unit with only double whisks for RRP $119.</p> <p> “The new Turbopro stick mixer has been created with our consumers’ insights in mind and is true to the classic Scandinavian design heritage of Electrolux,” said Electrolux Small Appliances Australia MD John Mahar.</p> <p> “The Turbopro stick mixer has excellent performance and powerful features such as a heavy duty stainless steel mixing bar, open foot and triple blades. It has variable speed controls to adjust the processing for different ingredients and a turbo function, for when a little extra power is needed.”</p> <p> Philips has partnered with Jamie Oliver to create a new range of small appliances so it is no surprise that the Dutch company’s new mantra is ‘Fresh and Healthy’.</p> <p> “Mothers always want to take care of their family well, and increasingly this includes preparing fresh and healthy food,” said Philips Consumer Lifestyle marketing manager for kitchen appliances Mikyu Chan. “But the busy period of getting home from work, picking up the kids, talking with the family and preparing a meal can be a stressful experience, increasing the temptation to resort to pre-made or fast food options.”</p> <p> In addition to promoting appliances that prepare healthier meals, Philips is also targeting a growth area in the small appliance category, Chan said.</p> <p> “Kitchen appliance companies such as Philips are trying to help mums and families out by giving them innovative tools to help create healthy and tasty homemade meals without the hassle.</p> <p> “This trend towards healthy cooking in the home is driving the market, and this will continue to be the case this year.”</p> <p> The first co-creation between Philips and Jamie Oliver is the HomeCooker (HR1050, RRP $529). Chan said this appliance was a “first of its kind” as it does both the preparation and the cooking.</p> <p> “The HomeCooker chops, stirs, steams and sautés and can be left cooking unattended, giving back quality time. The HomeCooker has its own cutting tower for chopping directly into its stainless steel pot. Vegetables, cheese and meat can be sliced, shredded or cut Julienne without having to pick up a knife.”</p> <p> The HomeCooker joins Philips’ existing Airfryer (HD9225, RRP $329) and Design Award winning QuickClean Juicer (HR1873, RRP $249). More products in this range are expected to be unveiled during 2013.</p> <p> “Philips Kitchen Appliances is trying to help Australian families enjoy healthy, tasty, and hassle-free food in the home, and as even more innovative products are launched, there is a great opportunity for retailers to help grow the category and enjoy greater preference from consumers.”</p> <p> Morphy Richards national marketing manager Fiona Gotas believes small appliances are becoming more like major kitchen appliances: central objects in the kitchen that can act as status symbols, conversation starters and décor items.</p> <p> “A continuing trend with consumers in 2013 will see the kitchen become the hub of the home,” Gotas said. “ “Spending more time in the kitchen means the styling of the kitchen becomes a significant factor.</p> <p> “Vibrant colours have been a growing trend the last two years and will continue in 2013, however, consumers will start to see soft and classic colour tones becoming more available.”</p> <p> Morphy Richards’ hero products for Mother’s Day are the Food Slicer & Salad Maker (48401, RRP $99), Elipta White Jug Kettle (43946, RRP $129) and the Elipta 2 Slice Toaster (44872, RRP $119).</p> <p> Gotas said Morphy Richards would be expanding its social media presence to communicate directly with consumers.</p> <p> “Morphy Richards will continue to grow its strength in the social media world,” she said. “The success of the 2012 campaign ‘Colour Your Mornings’ has allowed us to grow our fan base and engage with our customers within our brand and product offerings.”</p> <p> After the rush of bright and bold colours in 2012, Bosch is in line with the thoughts of rival brands in predicting a move towards more subdued tones in 2013. Rather than eye-catching reflective colours for its new kitchen machines, Peart has opted for two pastels: “miracle blue” and “passion yellow”.</p> <p> “Colours are also making a huge impact in the market as consumers are increasingly looking to customise their home appliances to suit their personal tastes,” he said. “This Mother’s Day, Bosch is introducing a range of pastel colours to its kitchen appliance family.</p> <p> “Consumers will now have the flexibility to choose colours that complement the look and feel of their kitchens. Bosch will also continue to promote its range of classic white, silver and grey appliances.”</p> <p> Bosch’s new 900-watt kitchen machines (MUM54520AU for blue, MUM54620AU for yellow; both RRP $699) will be available in April 2013. Both models have identical features, including 3.9-litre stainless steel bowl, dough hook, beating and stirring whisks, dishwasher safe accessories and seven speed settings.</p> <p> “This category continues to experience considerable growth in both volume and value,” Peart said. “Consumers are choosing to upgrade their appliances to better quality products, which include features that make food preparation faster and easier.</p> <p> “Retailers should continue to take advantage of this trend by providing eye-catching in-store display areas, engaging and knowledgeable staff, and up-selling to big brands with good margin.”</p> <p> Bosch also has a new 800-watt food processor (MCM4200AU, RRP $249) and a new Hand Blender (MSM7800AU, RRP $229).</p> <p> While Panasonic has also been a force in small appliances in its native Japan, 2013 will see the company expand further into this market in Australia, according to product marketing manager — whitegoods and small appliances, Prue Sheehan.</p> <p> “The small appliance market continues to be a strong focus for Panasonic in 2013 as consumers upgrade their appliances to make the most of exciting advances in technology and convenient features to complement fast-paced and health-conscious lifestyles,” Sheehan said.</p> <p> Panasonic has added the new DF Series of rice cookers to complement its DE Series and will be continuing to promote its Bread Maker, which was relaunched in Australia in 2010.</p> <p> “The DF Series Rice Cookers feature Fuzzy Logic technology, which cleverly controls cooking temperatures based on the amount of rice and water for perfectly cooked rice each time,” explained Sheehan.</p> <p> The premium 1.8-litre DF Series rice cooker (SR-DF181WST) is RRP $109.</p> <p> The latest Bread Maker from Panasonic (SD-2501, RRP $249) has a Diamond-Fluoro coated bread pan and kneading blade for increased durability and easier maintenance and includes jam and compote modes for added functionality.</p> <p> Spectrum Brands distributes both the Russell Hobbs and George Foreman ranges of small appliances. Russell Hobbs home appliances product manager Monika Kamienowska said the British brand would be at the forefront of consumers’ minds this Mother’s Day.</p> <p> “Our research has shown that consumers still consider affordability, practicality and ease of use as the dominate factor in their purchase decision of kettles and toasters, however, at the point of purchase, colour and design play a key role,” she said.</p> <p> “Hence, Russell Hobbs continuously thrives to deliver products that not only make life easier and more enjoyable but act as a statement piece of their own on the bench top.”</p> <p> This Mother’s Day, Russell Hobbs will be promoting its Perfect, Metallics, Heritage and Silhouette series of breakfast appliances. Across these colourful collections consumers can choose toasters and kettles in red, black, silver, purple and white.</p> <p> Russell Hobbs will also be promoting its Juiceman (RHJM8000AU, RRP $99) and Juiceman Pro (RHJM8000AU, RRP $199) juicers and its Kitchen Metallics Blender in red and black (RHBL3000B/R, RRP $119).</p> <p> The George Foreman brand is also focusing on juicers for Mother’s Day. The compact Health Juicer (GFJE2200AU, RRP $59) has a 300-millilitre juicing jug and non-slip rubber feet while the Citrus Juicer (GFCJ631AU, RRP $24) has a 1-litre capacity and a large cone for extracting from large size fruit.</p> Mon, 06 May 2013 14:27:37 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/06/article/Our-Top-Appliance-and-Electronics-Gifts-for-Mothers-Day-2013/HZHGHNSDCL.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/06/article/Our-Top-Appliance-and-Electronics-Gifts-for-Mothers-Day-2013/HZHGHNSDCL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Over the past few weeks, we have been highlighting some of the major Mother’s Day battlegrounds: <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/03/01/article/Mothers-Day-Battlegrounds-Food-Choppers--Salad-Makers/RWWLUAUOZS" target="_blank">Choppers</a>, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Mothers-Day-Battlegrounds-Food-Processors/YJDKKGEQOQ.html" target="_blank">Processors</a>, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/03/11/article/Mothers-Day-Battlegrounds-Kettle-and-Toaster-Breakfast-Packs/VSOQFZTXNN.html" target="_blank">Breakfast Packs</a>, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/03/20/article/Mothers-Day-Battlegrounds-Juicers/MPCJEZKYLY.html" target="_blank">Juicers</a> and <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/The-best-Mothers-Day-Personal-Care-gift-ideas/KYPYBXENRZ.html" target="_blank">Personal Care</a>, for example.</p> <p> Here now are our picks for the best Mother’s Day gift ideas (and don’t forget to check out our <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/03/article/UPDATED-All-the-2013-Mothers-Day-promotions-in-one-place/IBQTSEJXZL.html" target="_blank">Mother’s Day promotions webpage</a> with all the deals currently on offer):</p> <p> Breville All in One (BSB530, RRP $199)</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/03 Breville BSB530_HR_HERO_A12_AUG(1).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> 'Heston tested' for kitchen quality results at home, this combination blender, masher, chopper and slicer pretty much takes care of most food prep needs while still maintaining a compact footprint.</p> <p> Sunbeam Cafe Series Espresso Machine (EM7000, RRP $899)</p> <p> <img alt="" height="335" src="/image/01_ SUNBEAM_Espresso grey.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Buy Mum one of these manual coffee machines and she will also be treated to a free lesson at the Sunbeam coffee school. It is here that she will learn about why an angled handle is important (it reduces strain injuries), how to buy coffee (direct from a roaster, within a few days of roasting), how to store coffee (in cellar-like conditions away from heat, light, air and moisture) and, of course, how to make a cup of coffee (you'll have to do the course to find out).</p> <p> De'Longhi Icona Vintage breakfast pack (4-slice toaster is RRP $189; kettle is RRP $149)</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Delonghi toaster and kettle.jpg" width="404" /></p> <p> You have to admire De'Longhi's ability to create and market small appliances that can be sold on appearance and functionality, rather than cheap prices. The Icona Vintage range is marked by classically Italian styles from the era of Fellini, Mastroianni and Piaggio. I've gone with the Lazio colours - De'Longhi calls it 'Anita' - but others might prefer dark brown, light brown, olive green or black.</p> <p> Tefal Fresh Express + (RRP $69)</p> <p> <img alt="" height="381" src="/image/Groupe SEB Fresh Express +.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Now with a wavy slicing cone! In addition to excellent marketingspeak, the Fresh Express provides for quick chopping, slicing and grating of various foodstuffs directly into the bowl. Five different drums are provided in the box: wavy slicing, thin slicing, coarse grating, fine grating and (plain old) grating.</p> <p> Philips PerfectCare Aqua (GC8635, RRP $449)</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/02_ PHILIPS_GC8635L.jpg" width="315" /></p> <p> Not all Mums would be happy to receive an iron on their special day - but this is a special iron. The PerfectCare steam system is actually quite a lot of fun to use, as the steam is so consistently strong that creases disappear quicker than breakfast in bed. Also, this iron has no dial, so it can be used on any fabric without having to make manual adjustments.</p> <p> Bissell AirRAM (RRP $399)</p> <p> Œ<img alt="" height="435" src="/image/BISSELL AirRAM_RightSideImageHR.jpg" width="150" /></p> <p> Without doubt the best, most functional, most fun cleaner this vac-lover has ever used. The 40-minute battery means it will keep sucking well after others have had to go back to the charger and dust compression technology means it can pick up a lot more detritus than you would expect. While nowhere near as flexible as a Dyson stick vac (you certainly can't lift it above your head), the AirRAM is absolutely brilliant for floors. What Mum wouldn't want a vacuum cleaner on her special day?!?!?</p> <p> Dreamfarm Garject (RRP $39)</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Dreamfarm_Garject_OnWhite_FireTruck_3.jpg" width="591" /></p> <p> Proof that good things can come in affordable packaging, the Garject garlic crusher is an industrial design masterpiece - winner of the Best in Category award for consumer products at the 2012 Australian International Design Awards. Garlic, by its very nature, is an acquired taste, but for those who like the taste, this peel-on crusher will prove irresistible.</p> <p> Sony Xperia Z (RRP $749)</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/_MG_5030(1).jpg" width="450" /></p> <p> The first batch of Android 'superphones' have generated a lot of buzz, but while the HTC One, Samsung Galaxy S4 and LG Optimus G are all great handsets, none of them mark the step-up to a new level like Sony's Xperia Z. The confluence of elegance and perspicacity is matched only by this handset's ability to wash off the confluence of water and accidence. And the camera is great too.</p> <p> Panasonic SZ9 (RRP $229)</p> <p> Œ<img alt="" height="300" src="/image/DMC-SZ9-S Angle.jpg" width="403" /></p> <p> 10x optical zoom, Full HD recording and built-in Wi-Fi make this slimline, sleek and silver snapper the perfect gift for Mothers that must simply upload every single milestone to social media. Sync it with your smartphone and you can pretty much have every otherwise mundane moment saved for posterity in an instant. This model also has some fantastic creative controls, giving users the ability to personalise their images, touch up any imperfections and, of course, add a starburst filter.</p> <p> LG Door-in-Door French Door Fridge (from RRP $3,299)</p> <p> <img alt="" height="329" src="/image/LG-FDF DID-3D View-1.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> 'Tis a lucky mother who receives a major appliance for Mother's Day! One really can't go past this amazing combination of style and substance: the French Door design allows for enormous platters and a phenomenal capacity of up to 907 litres; while the small door placed on the outside of the large door allows for quick and easy access to snacks and drinks and other oft-required items.</p> Mon, 06 May 2013 13:05:06 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/Acer-offers-incentive-for-clumsy-tablet-and-notebook-customers/ZWMSBIJGHL.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/08/article/Acer-offers-incentive-for-clumsy-tablet-and-notebook-customers/ZWMSBIJGHL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Acer has launched a new initiative to boost retail sales and provide a point of difference in electrical stores, announcing that it will offer a free year of accidental damage insurance on all purchases from its notebook and tablet line-up.</p> <p> The Accidental Damage Cover provides insurance for electrical surges, liquid spills and accidental knocks and drops which may cause damage to hardware. The offer is available from today (8 May 2013) and runs until 31 August 2013, with consumers required to register online for the cover within 14 days of their product purchase. In addition to the year-long insurance, consumers are able to purchase additional insurance for up to three years.</p> <p> The offer is available on any Acer tablet or notebook products purchased in retail across Australia.</p> <p> Speaking about the promotion was Neil Roberts, Acer technical services director.</p> <p> “We want to show our customers that when they purchase an Acer product, they can rely on us to protect their investment,” said Roberts. “By providing Accidental Damage insurance, we are not only standing behind our products but we are standing behind our customers as well.”</p> <p> Full details as well as terms and conditions can be found at the <a href="http://www.acer.com.au/acercareplus" target="_blank">Acer Care website</a>.</p> Wed, 08 May 2013 14:52:49 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/Domestic-espionage-with-Unidens-new-Guardian-and-Baby-Watch-ranges/ZHEZTBAWTV.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/Domestic-espionage-with-Unidens-new-Guardian-and-Baby-Watch-ranges/ZHEZTBAWTV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Uniden has unveiled a new range of Guardian surveillance systems and Baby Watch monitors as it further expands its business away from its traditional and market leading home phones offering.</p> <p> There will be four new Guardian models in the range from July 2013, starting with a basic 4.3-inch colour screen option up to the all-in-one solution that includes a 7-inch tablet and up to four cameras.</p> <p> “Ideal for monitoring both the inside and outside of properties, Guardian is the ultimate all-in-one security system for the home,” said senior national marketing executive Brad Hales. “This plug-and-play DIY solution gives users the opportunity to play ‘Big Brother’ in their own home.</p> <p> “Using the Uniden Guardian app, users can check on their property remotely via smartphone, tablet or PC. When viewing footage using a mobile device, they can even take snapshots of what they see.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The Guardian is ideal for constant travellers looking to check in on their property, small business owners keen to monitor activity and the truly paranoid who just like to watch their backyard while at work. Whatever the reason, the Guardian provides the solution.</p> <p> In the burgeoning Baby Monitor category, Uniden has two new models. In addition to beaming live images of young loved ones to other rooms of the house, these units provide temperature displays, feed time alerts and even a remote viewing Skype app for when you simply must provide a live feed of your babies to friends around the world.</p> <p> “For parents seeking a baby monitor with all the bells and whistles, Uniden’s new Baby Watch will satisfy,” Hales said. “The BW31xx digital wireless baby monitor boasts a 4.3-inch colour screen, while the BW30xx caters to those requiring a smaller screen of 2.5-inch.Œ</p> <p> “Both models are available in dual camera and single camera packs, enabling parents to have eyes and ears all around the house.”</p> <p> No pricing on any of these new units though we do have some imagery:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Uniden Baby Watch BW3102_lres.jpg" width="497" /></p> <p> Uniden Baby Watch BW3102.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Uniden Guardian G1420_lres.jpg" width="418" /></p> <p> Uniden Guardian G1420: this is the entry level Guardian - the top-of-the-line model is like having the Pentagon at your surveillance disposal. Œ</p> Fri, 03 May 2013 15:26:03 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/Daily-deals-sites-recall-iPhone-5-cables-due-to-fire-risk/CHTWBICGNM.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/Daily-deals-sites-recall-iPhone-5-cables-due-to-fire-risk/CHTWBICGNM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> The ACCC has issued a recall for two iPhone 5-compatible lightning cables due to an issue with the USB connection and the potential for the product to cause a fire hazard. The ACCC has confirmed that the cables were produced by a third-party manufacturer, not Apple,Œand that the recall does not affect legitimate Apple-branded cables.</p> <p> The two products affected by the recall are a white iPhone 5 Lightning Cables with USB5-3 connection and Apple Lightning connection, sold in one-metre and three-metre lengths with the model number N30506.</p> <p> Both cables were sold through online daily deals websites Catchoftheday.com.au and Scoopon.com.au between 14 December 2012 and 2 May 2013.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The cables have been recalled due to a manufacturing defect that “causes failure of the cable’s USB connection”.</p> <p> “If the defect occurs, it causes overheating and melting of the USB connection’s plastic housing and poses a fire hazard to consumers,” the ACCC recall read.</p> <p> Consumers are advised to “immediately cease using the cable and dispose of the product (in bin or via e-waste recycling).</p> <p> “Consumers will be contacted via email in order to organise for a refund or an alternative remedy," the ACCC recall noted.</p> Fri, 03 May 2013 14:36:40 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/JB-Hi-Fi-expands-further-into-digital-with-JB-NOW-Video/SJDYFFJDCQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/JB-Hi-Fi-expands-further-into-digital-with-JB-NOW-Video/SJDYFFJDCQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi has soft-launched a new cloud-based video service known as <a href="http://video.jbhifi.com.au/index.html" target="_blank">JB NOW Video</a>, giving consumers the opportunity to download or stream films and TV shows on a number of devices, including PCs, tablets and smartphones.</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi CEO Terry Smart announced the launch of the service in a presentation to the Macquarie Australia Conference today. According to JB, the NOW Video service is “nearing completion”, but the retailer’s streaming site was live as of today.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> JB NOW Video will utilise a service known as <a href="http://www.uvvu.com/" target="_blank">UltraViolet</a>, which allows consumers to gain access to digital copies of video content when they purchase hard-copy DVDs or Blu-ray discs showing an UltraViolet logo.</p> <p> For example, if a customer purchases a DVD of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey from JB Hi-Fi, they are able to redeem the UltraViolet code found on the inside of the case to either stream the film over the internet, or to download a digital copy for when they don’t have internet access.</p> <p> The UltraViolet service as it currently stands also allows users to buy a digital copy online through download or streaming and to have a disc included in the purchase price. It is unclear whether JB NOW Video will offer this service, although JB’s current strength in online retailing leaves plenty of room for consumers to buy a digital movie for immediate watching while they wait for a hard copy to be delivered.</p> <p> UltraViolet also boasts relationships with a number of major content providers, including Sony Pictures, Warner Bros., Roadshow Entertainment and Fox Entertainment Group, as well as overseas retailers such as Best Buy in the United States and HMV in the UK. All these companies are listed on the UltraViolet website as Alliance Members that “designed” the UltraViolet service.</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi is currently advertising a number of major upcoming DVD releases on the NOW Video website, including Gangster Squad, This is 40 and Django Unchained, set to be released on 6 June 2013.</p> <p> Comment:</p> <p> The launch of JB NOW Video is a logical step forward in JB Hi-Fi’s digital offering and one that allows the retailer to enhance its consumer offering in stores and online. Unlike American services such as Netflix or Hulu, the UltraViolet service is tied to physical product sales, so it is not a direct threat to JB’s traditional strong suit of DVD sales.</p> <p> It also neatly complements the retailer’s existing digital services, including the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/12/13/article/JB-NOW-music-streaming-service-goes-live/YDXEYFUZMF.html" target="_blank">JB NOW music streaming service</a> (launchedŒDecember 2011) and its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/JB-Hi-Fi-starts-selling-eBooks-through-new-JB-NOW-Books-platform/RBTWPIRACC.html" target="_blank">online eBook service</a> (launched last month).</p> <p> As a bricks and mortar retailer that strongly targets the youth market (think young staff and bright and busy signage) it’s also important for JB to target the growing trend in online shopping and digital consumption of media – trends that don’t look set to disappear any time soon.</p> <p> <a href="http://i.imgur.com/nx6FqsR.png" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="200" src="/image/JB Video Hobbit_300.bmp" width="300" /></a></p> <p> The JB NOW Video website allows consumers to download a free digital copy of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey using a code found on their purchased copy of the DVD or Blu-ray disc (click image for larger view).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="166" src="/image/JB Video Devices.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> JB NOW Video is largely device agnostic.</p> <p> <a href="http://i.imgur.com/AkdOl2B.png" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="291" src="/image/UltraViolet device map_300.bmp" width="300" /></a></p> <p> JB NOW Video utilises a cloud-based video streaming service known as UltraViolet, which can deliver digital copies of TV shows and Movies for download or streamingŒ(click image above for larger view).</p> Fri, 03 May 2013 11:44:00 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/Beko-beckons-Mums-with-Look-Whos-Talking-homage/LVZREHMILK.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/Beko-beckons-Mums-with-Look-Whos-Talking-homage/LVZREHMILK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> There's no better time to launch into an above the line TVC campaign that after some bad press. So UnderCurrent doffs its hat to Beko for releasing three advertisements in support of its retailers. What's more, as a product of the 1980s, UnderCurrent loves the Look Who's Talking theme...</p> <p> </p> <p> UnderCurrent can't quite work out of the glowing vegetables in this clip are a subtle homage to the Three Mile Island near-meltdown...</p> Fri, 03 May 2013 11:32:52 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/JB-Hi-Fi-revises-profit-forecasts-after-stronger-than-expected-sales/XIJVEEPFYO.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/03/article/JB-Hi-Fi-revises-profit-forecasts-after-stronger-than-expected-sales/XIJVEEPFYO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi has issued an update on its sales and net profit guidance for the 2013 financial year, announcing that net profit after tax (NPAT) is expected to be 7 to 11 per cent higher than the figure for the previous year.</p> <p> The company confirmed that sales for the financial year are expected to be circa $3.3 billion, with NPAT projected to be in the range of $112 million to $116 million. The company had previously issued financial guidance to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) indicating expected sales of $3.25 billion and NPAT in the range of $108 million to $112 million.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “This updated guidance has been driven by stronger than expected sales in the second half of FY13,” the company announced in the profit update issued to the ASX. “Sales growth in Australia and New Zealand for the four months ended 30 April 2013 was 10.3 per cent and comparable store sales growth was 3.0 per cent.</p> <p> “Sales growth in Australia and New Zealand for the 10 months to 30 April 2013 was 4.9 per cent and comparable store sales growth was -1.3 per cent, up from -3.5 per cent at the half year.</p> <p> “The company has opened 13 new JB Hi-Fi stores in FY13, all in Australia. As at 30 June 2013, the company will have 177 stores (Australia 164, NZ: 13) of which 176 will be JB Hi-Fi stores.”</p> Fri, 03 May 2013 09:47:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/02/article/Lasso-a-customer-with-the-new-Lasoo-app/ZNCKEXSOSE.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/02/article/Lasso-a-customer-with-the-new-Lasoo-app/ZNCKEXSOSE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent loves a new app! And this sounds like a good one:</p> <p> “Lasoo is creating a new social platform to allow users to scan, shop, share and compare the deals they find,” said a rep for the reinvented Lasoo app.</p> <p> “Online research before going to the store is now common practice when it comes to shopping for appliances and more expensive digital products. There is, however, an increasing number of Australians using their mobile phone while they are shopping, to research information about a product they are looking at in store.</p> <p> “Lasoo used to have only deals that were featured in retail catalogues and on online ecommerce stores, but this has now changed.”</p> <p> UnderCurrent has previously amused itself with long-winded think pieces about ‘omnichannelling’ from the publicly listed retailers, so it was wondering how such an exciting mobile shopping price comparison tool could benefit retailers.</p> <p> "Appliance retailers now have a new way to disseminate information about their products, and be rewarded by brand advocates doing this for them. In a similar way that great service and great value benefits restaurants in Foursquare, through social network propagation and recommendations of brand evangelists.</p> <p> "Manufacturers and Retailers both stand to benefit from the information being surfaced through popular deals, user feed following and product following.</p> <p> Œ</p> <p> Retailers and consumers can <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/lasoo/id329187735?mt=8" target="_blank">click here to see the app in iTunes</a> and can wait patiently for it to come to Android sometime in the uncertain future.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="430" src="/image/photo 3(1).PNG" width="300" /></p> <p> Use the Lasoo app to find out what's happening at Big W.</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/image/photo 6.PNG" /></p> <p> The Hold Steady is one of UnderCurrent's <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3b7fZIT0nk" target="_blank">favourite bands</a>. One for the Game of Thrones fans there.</p> Thu, 02 May 2013 14:06:17 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/02/article/The-MICE-is-right-for-Sunbeams-latest-sponsorship-venture/MJRQQPBTOY.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/02/article/The-MICE-is-right-for-Sunbeams-latest-sponsorship-venture/MJRQQPBTOY.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Sunbeam has announced its sponsorship of the 2013 Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE2013), being held at the Melbourne Showgrounds on 23-to-26 May 2013.</p> <p> According to its website, MICE2013 will be a coffee exhibition and conference like none other in Australia or possibly the world.</p> <p> “MICE2013 will bring together the World Barista Championship, the World Brewers Cup, the inaugural Global Coffee Review Symposium and Australia’s largest dedicated coffee trade show for a once in a lifetime event.</p> <p> “In hosting the World Barista Championships and World Brewers Cup, the MICE2013 will be the culmination of decades of hard work that have seen the Australasian industry develop what is now being recognised as one of the strongest specialty coffee scenes in the world.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Sunbeam general manager, marketing, John Turnbull said this was a perfect opportunity to showcase Sunbeam’s coffee machine appliances.</p> <p> “Sunbeam is extremely proud to sponsor and be a part of such an important event for the coffee industry, Œhe said. “Sunbeam is one of the leaders in innovation of domestic coffee machines and makes commercially inspired products available to every Australian household.</p> <p> “While Sunbeam is renowned for its extensive range of kitchen and domestic appliances, MICE2013 will provide the perfect opportunity for us to also showcase our flagship coffee machine, the EM7000 Cafe Series Espresso Machine.”</p> <p> Sunbeam joins Pura, Espresso Mechanics, Equal, Iveco, Cafetto, Jet Technologies, Vitasoy and BeanScene as a Platinum sponsor. Exhibitors include Breville, Jura Australia and Lavazza.</p> <p> Meanwhile, Sunbeam has this week be celebrating another successful partnership with Channel Seven’s hit cooking show My Kitchen Rules.</p> <p> “Sunbeam’s diverse range of appliances lends itself so well to Australia’s highly successful reality cooking shows,” Turnbull said. “Our products are designed with passionate home cooks in mind so programmes such as My Kitchen Rules showcase our ethos of tailoring products to the needs of everyday Australians.”</p> Thu, 02 May 2013 13:37:12 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/02/article/OPED-Narta-talks-openly-about-the-first-30-days-of-Retravision/YCUTETCXMW.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/02/article/OPED-Narta-talks-openly-about-the-first-30-days-of-Retravision/YCUTETCXMW.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> In this special guest post, Narta chief operation officer Michael Jackson outlines the progress of Retravision since coming under the Narta banner on 1 April 2013.</p> <p> On 1 April 2013, we took the Retravision name and in doing this we established a division of Retravision under Narta and we provided selected stores with a licensing agreement to continue to trade under the brand.</p> <p> There continues to be clear potential for Retravision in the marketplace, with over 55 years of history and high consumer awareness.</p> <p> We have conducted a lot of research and despite the bad press the business has received, the perception is worse within the industry than with consumers. It is clear that consumers still have a lot of faith in the brand and regard it as representing Australian small local businesses with a strong service orientation.</p> <p> It is true that the business has declined from 400 stores to less than 30 stores, but Narta felt that there was merit in obtaining the brand. It was worthwhile from our perspective not only as a defensive opportunity, as it could appear as a competitor down the track, but particularly with the strength of the brand in Western Australia.</p> <p> Retravision continues to represent several hundred million dollars in turnover from the stores which are currently trading with Narta. There are 18 members representing 24 shopfronts in Western Australia; three shopfronts from the Webbers group in Queensland in Mackay, Rockhampton and Gladstone; two shopfronts in South Australia in Clare and Kadina; and a single store in the Northern Territory at Murray Oakley.</p> <p> These stores all have strong balance sheets, have good relationships with suppliers and represent sufficient volume which meets the criteria for entering the Narta group.</p> <p> What we found was there was so much emotion and passion about the Retravision brand that many of them were determined to remain as a Retravision branded store. Peter Kambouris saw the opportunity with his business (Kambo’s) to become a franchisor and we have supported him 100 per cent in that and what he is doing in his business.</p> <p> At the end of the day, the Retravision people we have within Narta are good retailers and it was not worth losing hundreds of millions of dollars worth of business from excellent operators, some of which have been with Retravision for up to 50 years. Retravision is clearly a passion for them — it is a brand they want to have forever.</p> <p> It was based on this that the Narta board saw the opportunity to acquire the Retravision brand and provide the business with a survival plan and a new home rather than a path to demise.</p> <p> There have been many challenges over the past month. Up until 1 April 2013, we had no involvement in the sales figures and purchasing data of the business, and we had little understanding of the impact to the business since the Retravision Southern administration in May 2012.</p> <p> It has been tough for the Retravision stores to move from centralised to individual billing accounts and reading the constant bad press telling everyone that they were in trouble. We know there has been some damage done, but there is enough strength within the brand for it to continue to trade.</p> <p> We have appointed Glen Mortimer, who is the Retravision manager based in Western Australia, to help put the systems and processes in place, and also to introduce the Narta culture.</p> <p> Glen will be the general on the ground working with the stores and day-to-day he will work with Bob Stanley in the Narta office who has over 10 years of experience with the group.</p> <p> We would like to thank Paul Holt who has been responsible for an ethical wind down of the business and also for his passion in finding a solution for all members within the group.</p> <p> One of the exciting things that we have introduced in just the first month has been a whole new point-of-sale system that is state of the art, providing live sales data and stock on hand information.</p> <p> The next phase of the implementation will be linking to electronic data interchange (EDI) ordering to provide the stock management and control that is required to keep the business running efficiently.</p> <p> This will provide more uniformity and consistency with the way the Retravision stores go to market and will be complemented by a new marketing campaign that we are introducing to the stores this week. This marketing campaign will represent a full 12-month plan across TV, radio and print.</p> <p> This is a million dollar investment from Narta in the future of the Retravision business and we have had fantastic support from suppliers and the stores themselves.</p> <p> If Retravision can redefine their systems and processes and create new disciplines, combined with the obvious passion they have in their own business, we believe this brand will become a valuable division within Narta.</p> <p> According to a company statement, Narta "was established in 1965 and is the largest independent electrical buying group in Australia...with combined buying power of more than $3 billion".</p> <p> Have something to say about this? Or another issue affecting the industry? <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/03/25/article/We-want-your-views-on-the-industry-and-youll-get-some-free-PR/GSJMDQAAAV" 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(8,84,199); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: rgb(255,255,255); border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; outline: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; orphans: auto; widows: auto" target="_blank">Tell us what you think.</a></p> Thu, 02 May 2013 13:07:57 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/Samsung-opens-24-hour-hotline-for-washing-machine-recall-enquiries/ILPAOVDKZP.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/Samsung-opens-24-hour-hotline-for-washing-machine-recall-enquiries/ILPAOVDKZP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Current.com.au is an independent website with no affiliation to Samsung</p> <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Samsung Electronics Australia has added a second hotline to field calls concerning its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/Samsung-recalls-six-top-load-washing-machines-due-to-fire-hazard/WLSRYHFCXU" target="_blank">washing machine recall</a> and opened up the service for 24 hour contact.</p> <p> In a statement released 24 hours after the recall was first made, Samsung encouraged affected consumers to utilise its dedicated email address (wm.samsung@samsung.com) and its microsite (www.samsung.com/au/washingmachinerecall), in addition to its hotlines.</p> <p> Œ"As a result of considerable customer contact/communications last night and today, we have significantly increased resources to assist customers determine if they have an affected unit, and (if applicable) to help get their product serviced as a matter of urgency," said a Samsung spokesperson.</p> <p> "Samsung has added additional customer service staff and increased the service hours of its Product Safety Hotline (1800 239 655) to 24 hours, seven days a week. In addition, Samsung has today created a second telephone line, 1800 680 174, which together will help handle the high volume of calls we have experienced. Customers can immediately use either number."</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> After being connected to 15 fires nationwide, Samsung recalled around 150,000 top-load washing machines. Once consumers have made contact with Samsung, a technician will be sent to rectify the problem. This process should take around 30 minutes.</p> <p> The six affected models are SW65V9WIP/XSA, SW75V9WIP/XSA, SW70SPWIP/XSA, SW80SPWIP/XSA, WA85GWGIP/XSA andWA85GWWIP/XSA.</p> <p> "Our customer’s safety is our top priority. We are continuing to work closely with the regulators and authorities on this major undertaking and are deeply concerned about the inconvenience this recall has caused to our customers. We will continue to provide updates and will ensure our customers get their products reworked as quickly as possible."</p> <p> Samsung's 24-hour hotline is 1800 239 655.</p> <p> Samsung's 8am to 8pm hotline is 1800 680 174.</p> <p> Current.com.au is an independent website with no affiliation to Samsung</p> Wed, 01 May 2013 19:32:05 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/LG-talks-imminent-move-into-new-categories-appliances-and-celebrities/WZXNXVWCLY.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/LG-talks-imminent-move-into-new-categories-appliances-and-celebrities/WZXNXVWCLY.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Interview by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Shortly after unveiling Australia’s first Curved OLED TV, LG’s marketing general manager Lambro Skropidis provided some insights into what we’ll be seeing from the Korean powerhouse over the coming weeks and months.</p> <p> By the end of May 2013, LG will have entered some new categories:</p> <p> “We’re going to be talking to the marketplace this month about getting into a new category; one that we haven’t been in. We’re looking to bring some Ultrabooks and tablets to the market, so we’ll unveil those in the next couple of weeks,” Skropidis said, before confirming these will be premium units.</p> <p> “The higher end of the market is where we want to play as a brand – we’ve got the innovation to warrant it – and we want the brand to be at the top end.</p> <p> “There are also some great mobile phones coming – I’ve had the luxury of seeing those – as we said earlier in the year: we’re back in mobile phones, we’re here to stay and we’ve got leading edge technology.”</p> <p> In LG’s major appliances division, the company is continuing to perform well, especially with its outstanding new <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/02/27/article/After-strong-French-release-LG-launches-first-Side-by-Side-Door-in-Door-model/SJYYSOUADX.html" target="_blank">Door-in-Door</a> and <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/LG-launches-new-SmartWasher-washing-machine-range/KCTVFHAKBM.html" target="_blank">laundry ranges</a>.</p> <p> “We’re doing some great work off the back of our new Smart Washers that we launched not long ago. We’ve really ramped up our activity in refrigeration and we’re seeing the dividends of that, and we’ve got some more to come in the back half of the year.</p> <p> “In the not-too-distant future there will be a bit more from us in the cooking area — we’ve just been dabbling there — hopefully we can upscale that in the future.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> On the introduction of Ewan McGregor to the LG Electronics Australia celebrity stable:</p> <p> “We think Ewan is a perfect fit for our brand for a number of reasons — he is obviously a man who is at the leading edge of style and ‘premium-ness’, and he’s a smart guy — all the things we want the brand to be.</p> <p> “We’re trying to own the idea of being the ‘Cinema TV’, or the TV that brings the cinema to the TV, so to have an ambassador that’s linked to that industry is a wonderful thing</p> <p> “This will integrated into all our comms: at store level, in digital, catalogue and TV advertising. He’ll be part of what we’re doing in home entertainment for a while.</p> <p> “Ewan will be a light post to our brand. People are always interested in what celebrities are up to!”</p> <p> And the other two members of the Holy Trinity: George Parker and Matt Moran?</p> <p> “Georgie is doing a great job representing us in home appliances and we’re extending that relationship.</p> <p> “We’re in the early stages with Matt and we are extending that as well – I think he will serve us well in the next couple of years – he’s very high profile, premium and smart – all things we want to be in that category.”</p> Wed, 01 May 2013 17:24:07 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/Launch-of-LG-Ultra-HD-and-Curved-OLED-proves-brand-is-category-captain/CKLCSTGGYO.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/Launch-of-LG-Ultra-HD-and-Curved-OLED-proves-brand-is-category-captain/CKLCSTGGYO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> LG Electronics today unveiled its 2013 range of television products, including a Curved OLED TV, new Ultra HD models in smaller sizes at more affordable price points, and new LED LCD and plasma TVs.</p> <p> For the first time since Ultra HD was introduced to Australia late last year, consumers will be able to choose a screen size smaller than 84 inches after LG unveiled 55- and 65-inch models. These two TVs will include LG’s Resolution Upscaler Plus to create the appearance of Ultra HD when playing back Full HD and HD content.</p> <p> These models also include LG’s full suite of Smart TV features, including content sharing between devices, Time Machine II for pausing and recording programs, Miracast functionality and access to a range of apps.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Lambro Skropidis, LG’s marketing general manager, said it was important that LG was continuing to lead the Ultra HD category as it moved into more accessible price points. The three previously released Ultra HD TVs range between $16,000 and $40,000.</p> <p> “We’ve sold Ultra HD technology but that physical size – 84 inches – is not always right for every person’s house — and that price tag can be a bit of a leap for people,” Skropidis told Current.com.au. “The price of a 55-inch Ultra HD is probably going to be a $2,500-to-$3,000 step up from a top end TV, so it is something that we are going to see a lot more people willing to take the risk on.”</p> <p> Although LG showed off its new Curved OLED panel, which has previously wowed audiences in Las Vegas and South Korea, Skropidis was unable to provide concrete details on pricing and availability.</p> <p> “Curved OLED will hopefully be in stores soon,” he said. “We are not showing it today just for fantasy. We saw it earlier this year at CES and I was really excited to see last week that preorders are being taken in South Korea — I think it’s natural that our home market leads the world in introduction.</p> <p> “We haven’t specified a date for Australia but we are in deep conversations to bring that out as quickly as we can.”</p> <p> Having told Current.com.au seven months ago that <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/10/10/article/LG-recharging-its-tech-image-with-launch-of-16000-UD-TV-via-select-channel/AEMTKJZYWY.html" target="_blank">LG wanted to be a “Category Captain” in home entertainment</a>, Skropidis all but claimed victory with the unveiling of these new TVs.</p> <p> “I think it’s great [what LG has released] — we’ve been talking over the last 12 months about being a leader and doing things first and it’s all starting to take shape now. We’ve shown some new technology first over the past couple of months, including today, and there are still a few things we’ve got tucked away up our sleeve – we didn’t show all our cards today.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Curved OLED_in home.jpg" width="571" /></p> <p> The soon-to-be-released Curved OLED from LG.</p> Wed, 01 May 2013 16:55:02 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/Harrods-visit-provides-rare-insight-into-tech-gear-for-the-uberwealthy/JLIATQODXJ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/Harrods-visit-provides-rare-insight-into-tech-gear-for-the-uberwealthy/JLIATQODXJ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Images by James Wells</p> <p> Current.com.au recently visited Harrods in London to see how the well-minted shop for their consumer electronics. The venerable Knightsbridge department store has been servicing London's elite for 179 years - and it's not just handbags, wine and cuffinks - the technology department is also impressive.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="346" src="/image/IMG_4338.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> A lovely sign welcoming visitors to the Harrods Technology Department, where the seating area is reserved "for live demonstration purposes only".</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/IMG_4347.JPG" width="400" /></p> <p> This 103-inch Panasonic plasma is only £84,995 (AU $127,275). If you think that's expensive, check out the 152-inch model:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="400" src="/image/IMG_4345.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> That's AU $898,462!</p> <p> <img alt="" height="400" src="/image/IMG_4355(1).JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> This gold plated iPad case is only £2,000 (AU $2,997).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="400" src="/image/IMG_4359.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> While this Unique LotusŒsmartphone case is a cool £189,000 (AUŒ$283,000). Here is how the Harrods propaganda department describes it:</p> <p> "Made of 18-carat rose gold, encrusted with a multitude of rare pink and white diamonds. Inspired by the exotic Water Lotus, this case symbolises strength, progress, purity and prosperity, and its design certainly reflects this. It is adornedŒwith 13 carat black, white and pink diamonds and accented with intricate mother of pearl inlay."ŒŒ</p> Wed, 01 May 2013 14:52:28 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/LG-signs-on-Ewan-McGregor-as-home-entertainment-brand-ambassador/VEALDJIMKA.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/LG-signs-on-Ewan-McGregor-as-home-entertainment-brand-ambassador/VEALDJIMKA.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> LG has announced that it has signed on Scottish actor Ewan McGregor as brand ambassador for its 2013 home entertainment range at the brand’s TV and AV launch in Sydney today. McGregor took to the stage at the event, held in the bay-sideŒ suburb of Darling Point, to endorse the brand and to show off a new range of products from LG, including a new curved OLED TV.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> As part of the partnership, McGregor will integral in LG’s marketing campaigns across both Australia and New Zealand. Speaking about the high-profile star of Moulin Rouge! and Trainspotting, LG Australia marketing general manager Lambro Skropidis said it was a big win for the brand.Œ</p> <p> “Ewan McGregor is widely considered to be one of the world’s most engaging actors so we are both proud and thrilled to announce our partnership with him and delighted that he will be promoting the new LG Home Entertainment range in Australia and New Zealand,” said Skropidis.</p> <p> McGregor was equally effusive about his new favourite Korean manufacturer.</p> <p> “I’m looking forward to working with LG Electronics to help showcase its latest Home Entertainment range,” said McGregor. “LG is a premium, exciting brand that is committed to producing products that are innovative in both technology and style. I am pleased to be working alongside the company to help bring these great products to Australia.”</p> Wed, 01 May 2013 12:32:30 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/Fisher--Paykel-dryer-promotion-targets-movie-buffs/AQUHCZYJGZ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/Fisher--Paykel-dryer-promotion-targets-movie-buffs/AQUHCZYJGZ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> As Australians gear up for the winter months and prepare to get more use out of their clothes dryers rather than hanging washing on the line, Fisher & Paykel has announced a consumer promotion on its dryer line-up.</p> <p> Consumers who purchase any dryer from the Fisher & Paykel line-up will be eligible to claim two bonus Hoyts e-CineVouchers which can be redeemed through Hoyts’ website for online movie ticket purchases.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Purchases must be made between 1 May and 30 June 2013, with online redemption (through Fisher & Paykel’s website) to be completed by 15 July 2013, including proof of purchase.</p> <p> The promotion is valid across Fisher & Paykel’s entire range of dryers, which includes three conventional Dryers (DE50F56E; DE50F56A; DE40F56A) a Condenser Dryer (DE60F60NW1) and a Vented Dryer (DE60F60EW1).</p> <p> Full terms and conditions, along with the online claim form, can be found on <a href="http://promotions.fisherpaykel.com/au/promotions/dryer-hoyts-movie/claim-now/?CFID=48459946&CFTOKEN=25229495" target="_blank">Fisher & Paykel’s website</a>.</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/image/F&P_AeroSense 5kg Dryer.bmp" /></p> <p> Fisher & Paykel's AeroSense 5.0kg Clothes Dryer (DE50F56E) is included in the new promotion.</p> Wed, 01 May 2013 10:05:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/Samsungs-150000-recalled-washing-machines-linked-to-15-fire-incidents/HHGFIQKGGH.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/Samsungs-150000-recalled-washing-machines-linked-to-15-fire-incidents/HHGFIQKGGH.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Current.com.au is an independent website with no affiliation to Samsung</p> <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> More detail emerged overnight concerning the recall of six Samsung top load washing machines, announced yesterday afternoon.</p> <p> New South Wales Fair Trading commissioner Rod Stowe has revealed that there have been 15 fire incidents nationwide believed to be caused by these machines, including six in New South Wales.</p> <p> Of the 150,000 washing machines sold between 2010 and 2012, over 62,000 were sold in New South Wales. A further 36,000 machines were sold in New Zealand.</p> <p> “Samsung has advised NSW Fair Trading that 150,000 machines have been sold in Australia through various retailers between 2010 and 2013, including 62,285 in New South Wales,” said a statement released by Fair Trading. “Another 36,000 machines have been sold in New Zealand.”</p> <p> “There have been 15 fire incidents involving machines around Australia, including six fires in NSW. Fire & Rescue NSW fire investigators identified safety concerns with the washing machines after firefighters attended at least six fires linked to the appliances since last November.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> A defect in manufacturing of the machines means moisture can penetrate electrical connectors in these washers, resulting in a fire hazard, according to a Samsung statement</p> <p> The six affected models are SW65V9WIP/XSA, SW75V9WIP/XSA, SW70SPWIP/XSA, SW80SPWIP/XSA, WA85GWGIP/XSA andWA85GWWIP/XSA.</p> <p> Affected users are advised to contact Samsung on 1800 239 655 or by email to <a href="mailto:wm.samsung@samsung.com">wm.samsung@samsung.com</a> to arrange for a service technician visit to fix the problem. Samsung estimates that remedying the fault will take around 30 minutes.</p> <p> In the meantime, affected users are advised to not use their washing machine unless they are directly supervising it to watch for smoke or strange odours.</p> <p> Recalled Samsung washing machine image gallery, first published by Fair Trading, republished with permission:</p> <p> <img alt="" height="170" src="/image/Samsung_washing_machine_1.jpg" width="256" /></p> <p> <img alt="" height="170" src="/image/Samsung_washing_machine_2.jpg" width="256" /></p> <p> <img alt="" height="170" src="/image/Samsung_washing_machine_3.jpg" width="256" /></p> <p> <img alt="" height="170" src="/image/Samsung_washing_machine_model_details.jpg" width="256" /></p> Wed, 01 May 2013 09:14:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/Samsung-recalls-six-top-load-washing-machines-due-to-fire-hazard/WLSRYHFCXU.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/Samsung-recalls-six-top-load-washing-machines-due-to-fire-hazard/WLSRYHFCXU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Current.com.au is an independent website with no affiliation to Samsung</p> <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Samsung Electronics Australia today announced the recall of six top load washing machines, sold nationally between early 2010 and 28 February 2013.</p> <p> A defect in manufacturing means moisture can penetrate electrical connectors in these washers, resulting in a fire hazard, according to a Samsung statement.</p> <p> The six affected models are SW65V9WIP/XSA, SW75V9WIP/XSA, SW70SPWIP/XSA, SW80SPWIP/XSA, WA85GWGIP/XSA andWA85GWWIP/XSA.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Samsung reports that the model numbers for its laundry appliances are printed on the back ofŒthe machines.</p> <p> Affected users are advised to contact Samsung onŒ1800 239 655Œor by email toŒ<a href="mailto:wm.samsung@samsung.com" 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(8,84,199); padding-top: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; outline: 0px">wm.samsung@samsung.com</a>Œto arrange for a service technician visit to fix the problem. Samsung estimates that remedying the fault will take around 30 minutes.</p> <p> In the meantime, affected users are advised to not use their washing machine unless they are directly supervising it to watch for smoke or strange odours.</p> <p> “Over the course of the next few weeks, we are contacting customers, retailers and partners to ensure those who own affected models get their units reworked,” said Samsung vice president, consumer electronics operations, Michael Richardson. “We understand this will be an inconvenience to some of our valued customers, but their continued safety is our primary concern.”</p> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 16:23:51 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/Mothers-Day-Battle-Grounds-Small-benchtop-cooking-appliances/MMFCAKOGYK.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/Mothers-Day-Battle-Grounds-Small-benchtop-cooking-appliances/MMFCAKOGYK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Claire Reilly</p> <p> Mother’s Day is always a big time of year for small appliance sales, but with the 12 May date popping up on the calendar so close to the start of winter, benchtop cooking products always garner a bit of extra attention.</p> <p> Slow cookers, pressure cookers and multi-function appliances continue to be popular across the board, with the major suppliers adding new features and cooking programs to boost their offerings. The main selling point is time-saving cooking – when consumers come in looking for an appliance for Mum, retailers should really focus on how products will make life in the kitchen easier and more enjoyable.</p> <p> Here's our pick of the best benchtop cooking appliances for this Mother’s Day.</p> <p> Kenwood Cooking Chef (KM080) – RRP $1,999</p> <p> <img alt="" height="232" src="/image/Kenwood KM080.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Billed by Kenwood as “the first ever total mixing kitchen machine to cook your meal” the Cooking Chef does the mixing and stirring, and also allows you to cook in the same stainless steel bowl. With plenty of attachments (including a blender and food processor) as well as chopping and slicing discs, this is really an investment purchase designed to last for many Mother’s Days.</p> <p> Kambrook Pressure Express Digital Pressure Cooker (KPR800) – RRP $119</p> <p> <img alt="" height="330" src="/image/Kambrook Pressure Express.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Tying in with Kambrook’s ‘One Pot Wonders’ small appliance message for Mother’s Day, the Pressure Express has sauté, pressure cook and slow cook functions allowing consumers to make a variety of meals in the one appliance. As an added bonus, pressure cooking is good for time-poor Mums.</p> <p> Philips HomeCooker (HR1050) – RRP $529</p> <p> <img alt="" height="336" src="/image/Philips HomeCooker(1).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Part chopper, part cooking appliance, the Philips HomeCooker includes a chopping tower that cuts up ingredients directly into a cooking bowl, which can then be set to automatically cook and stir meals. The appliance also gets the tick of approval from Jamie Oliver.</p> <p> Sunbeam Duos Sous Vide (MU4000) – RRP $199</p> <p> <img alt="" height="240" src="/image/Sunbeam MU4000_L1.jpg.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> This sous vide machine can be used to cook vacuum-sealed foods in water at very precise temperatures, or it can be used as a regular slow cooker. It features a 5.5-litre capacity and electronic temperature controls that can be set between 40 and 90° Celsius.</p> <p> Tefal Cook4Me (CY7018) – RRP $349</p> <p> <img alt="" height="281" src="/image/06 Groupe SEB Cook4Me.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> There’s an interactive control panel as well as over 80 pre-programmed recipes including starters, mains and desserts. Best of all, over 50 recipes can be cooked in less than 12 minutes, making it an easy sell for most consumers.</p> <p> Breville Original ’74 (BSG1974) – RRP $99.95</p> <p> <img alt="" height="312" src="/image/Breville Original 74.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> A Current.com.au favourite for its sheer retro appeal, the Original ’74 jaffle maker is based on Breville’s original design from 1974, and makes toasted sandwiches the old-fashioned way (complete with sealed edges for maximum cheese retention). It also comes in at a good gift-giving price point.</p> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:46:37 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/India-goes-Psy-chotic-for-S4-Samsung-Style/XVFFCRSTJI.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/India-goes-Psy-chotic-for-S4-Samsung-Style/XVFFCRSTJI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent likes many, many things but nothing comes close to how much it loves this:</p> <p> </p> <p> And to think that instead of doing this at the Australian launch the local office trotted out Guy Sebastian to sing a string of #1 hits...</p> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:23:26 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/Camera-tablet-and-accessory-pricing-How-do-the-major-retailers-compare/GKDAVHKCXS.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/Camera-tablet-and-accessory-pricing-How-do-the-major-retailers-compare/GKDAVHKCXS.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Dick Smith, Harvey Norman and JB Hi-Fi are all jostling to remain competitive in their pricing of cameras and tablets, but both categories have shown a downward trend in advertisedŒprices over recent months at all three retailers. The findings are detailed in the Credit Suisse Pricing Index report on Australian Consumer Electronics and Whitegoods, released last week.</p> <p> According to Credit Suisse research analysts Grant Saligari and James O’Brien, Harvey Norman was the “most expensive retailer” in a survey of 18 retailers, including Officeworks, Masters and The Good Guys, as well as overseas retailers that ship to Australia (see full list of retailers below). The research analysts also found that “JB Hi-Fi is, on average, the second most expensive retailer” in the pricing data analysed.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Credit Suisse measured pricing across the retail groups from July 2012 through until April 2013, comparing deviations in retail prices to the industry average that was recorded in July 2012. The results show the month-by-month deviations in pricing for each retailer, measured against that July average.</p> <p> While camera and tablet pricing at Harvey Norman stayed close to the 100-point industry average, accessories prices were “materially above those of its competitors. It was a similar story at JB Hi-Fi, with accessories prices staying above average until “heavy discounting” activity in January saw a drop in prices, with tablets also trending downwards.</p> <p> At Dick Smith, Credit Suisse noted “errative pricing behaviour” although the overall trend was towards a lowering of prices.</p> <p> The Credit Suisse Electronics Retailer analysis graphs below show data from July 2012 to April 2013 with advertised pricing for accessories in black, cameraŒpricing in purple and tablet pricing in blueŒ(click on graphs below for a larger view).</p> <p> Variations in pricing are measured from the industry average recorded in July 2012 for each category.</p> <p> Dick Smith Electronics </p> <p> <a href="http://i.imgur.com/N5fvNmf.png?1" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="219" src="/image/Dick Smith Accessories_300.bmp" width="301" /></a></p> <p> “[Dick Smith] has displayed erratic pricing behaviour by moving categories in and out of promotion. There remains a material price differential to online retailers whose discounting patterns tend to be smoother. [Dick Smith] screens as the most expensive camera retailer, with Harvey Norman now the most price competitive among the store-operating retailers.”</p> <p> Harvey Norman </p> <p> <a href="http://i.imgur.com/N5fvNmf.png?1" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="227" src="/image/HN Accessories_300.bmp" width="300" /></a></p> <p> “Harvey Norman is the most expensive retailer in our survey. The prices of its accessories products are materially above those of its competitors. It is relatively more competitive in Cameras and Tablets, however remains above its competitors in advertised prices.”</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi</p> <p> <a href="http://i.imgur.com/yHsmrtN.png" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="244" src="/image/JB Accessories_300(1).bmp" width="300" /></a></p> <p> “JB Hi-Fi is, on average, the second most expensive retailer in our data set. Heavy discounting in Accessories improved [JB Hi-Fi’s] overall price competitiveness in January [and the retailer] continued to reduce the prices of its tablets throughout 1Q13, in-line with competitor behaviour.”</p> <p> List of retailers included in Credit Suisse’s Pricing Index survey: Amazon – Electronics Appliances Online – Whitegoods Big Brown Box – Electronics Bing Lee – Whitegoods Deal Extreme – Electronics Dick Smith – Whitegoods The Good Guys – Whitegoods Harvey Norman – Electronics and Whitegoods JB Hi-Fi – Electronics JB Home – Whitegoods Kogan – Electronics Masters – Whitegoods MSY – Electronics Mwave – Electronics Officeworks – Electronics Shopping Express – Electronics T-Dimension – Electronics Top Buy – Electronics</p> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 12:34:44 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/The-best-Mothers-Day-Personal-Care-gift-ideas/KYPYBXENRZ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/The-best-Mothers-Day-Personal-Care-gift-ideas/KYPYBXENRZ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Mother's Day presents a great opportunity to ramp up sales in the personal care category while also making sure there are plenty of satisfied gift recipients come 12 May 2013. Here are six of the best new personal care appliances.</p> <p> Remington</p> <p> “It’s all about the hair and it’s all about being able to achieve a red carpet look before stepping out of the house,” said national merchandise manager Karen Markby. “Today’s hair styling is about variety —curls and waves, big hair volume or shimmering straight — and to achieve these varied styles, women now look beyond the purchase of just the styling necessities of a dryer and straightener to a bevy of styling tools.</p> <p> “This trend offers retailers a chance to maximise sales by offering an extended range of styling tool option.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="200" src="/image/01 Remington S8595AU_2D_HR_RGB.jpg" width="584" /></p> <p> The Remington Colour Protect heats up in 15 seconds and has five variable settings from 160-to-230° Celsius (S8595AU, RRP $103).</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Braun</p> <p> “Wet epilating is booming as it can offers better, gentler experience,” said Natasha McIntosh, national sales manager at distributor Mann & Noble. “Braun’s Silk Epil 7 line-up offers wet epilating, and dual epilation with Gillette Venus blade technology, which enables a long-lasting smooth skin feeling.</p> <p> “Understand what the customer is looking for and how they define value. More expensive models have better performance and benefits. Customers might think they are getting a great deal [on cheaper products] but they will be disappointed when they get home as it doesn’t meet their needs.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/02 Braun SE_7_XP_7681_MN_UK_AUS[1]_tif _.jpg" width="446" /></p> <p> Braun’s Silk Epil 7 Wet & Dry has a SmartLight for guiding the users to even the finest of hairs (SE7681, RRP $219).</p> <p> Emjoi</p> <p> “There’s been a real influx of demand for portable and affordable hair removal products, particularly for those new to epilating,” said business manager Tracey Duff. “Emjoi has really delivered with the BodyBare Diva. It includes 3-Disc tweezer technology that increases accuracy, while ‘Glide’ gently lifts the hair from the root making hair removal even more comfortable.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="500" src="/image/03 Emjoi AP14D High Res.jpg" width="200" /></p> <p> The Emjoi BodyBare Diva is a battery operated epilator that removes hair as short as 0.5-millimetres for up to 6 weeks (AP14D, RRP $24.95).</p> <p> Philips</p> <p> “The nature of credibility in personal care and beauty products is changing, from superficial, short-term, and shallow to fundamental, long term, visible results,” said senior manager, personal care, Thomas Paltridge. “That’s why we are creating a new generation of beauty solutions for 21st Century women who are looking for something more than ‘hope in a jar’.</p> <p> “We believe in smarter innovation and believe that innovation can make us more beautiful every day.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="469" src="/image/04 Philips Lumea Precision Plus.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> Philips’ Lumea Precision Plus is the only Intense Pulse Light (IPL) device on the market offering separate attachments for the body and the face (SC2003, RRP $1,299). VS Sassoon</p> <p> “VS Sassoon will not only deliver a strong brand heritage with high quality and affordable core range products this Mother’s Day, it will also continue to deliver promotional styling tools at gift giving friendly price points,” said Conair category manager Eve Hughes. “With the budget conscious shopper in mind, VS has developed a range of attractive gift packs aimed to help shoppers spoil Mum.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/05 VS Sassoon VS5737CA.png" width="399" /></p> <p> The VS Sassoon Ombré dryer pack has a purple-to-pink finish, matching accessories and Ionic Conditioning Technology (VS5737CA, RRP $42.95).</p> <p> Elle by Beurer</p> <p> "The Elle Warm Wax Hair Remover does just that: the unit warms cartridge of bees wax for permanent, commercial-style hair removal at home," said Maria Russo from FitZone Solutions. "The innovative range allows for home use on what was previously the domain of a beautician."</p> <p> <img alt="" height="358" src="/image/06 FitZone HLE40-Set plus Buttons.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Elle by Beurer Warm Wax Hair Remover (HLE40, RRP $129).</p> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:49:26 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/Philips-TVs-back-on-sale-from-an-unlikely-source-Kogan/PBPKZNBNFS.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/30/article/Philips-TVs-back-on-sale-from-an-unlikely-source-Kogan/PBPKZNBNFS.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Philips TVs are back on sale in Australia; and from an unlikely source - the Kogan online store. This is the first time a third party TV brand has been sold by the rogue online retailer.</p> <p> Philips’ Australian subsidiaryŒ<a href="http://www.current.com.au/2008/09/15/article/Philips-pulls-plug-on-TV-market-in-Australia-and-New-Zealand/SVJVEDMZBF.html" target="_blank">withdrew from the consumer TV market</a>Œon 31 December 2008 after the brand had failed to meet profitability goals. This inability was due largely to the devastating price erosion that visited the flat panel category during the 2000s.</p> <p> In the five years since abandoning the local consumer TV market, Philips has redoubled its commercial TV business and remains an active player in the hospitality market. Globally, the Dutch company TP Vision has been awarded the exclusive licence to distribute Philips TVs in most markets, with China the notable exception.</p> <p> Kogan is currently selling three Philips TVs, in 22-, 26- and 32-inch models. All three are LED LCD panels and come with 12-month warranty. The two smaller models are only HD, and sell for $199 and $299, while the largest model is Full HD and is listed at $349.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In an email to Current.com.au, Kogan founder Ruslan Kogan said he planned on introducing more TV panels to his site from name brands.</p> <p> "Philips TVs are the first third party brand we are selling in the TV category," Kogan said.Œ"For many years we have been trying to source TVs from the other major brands but they are too scared to sell to the online channel as it would piss off their major bricks and mortar retailers.</p> <p> "We’re not fazed by this and we will keep persevering."</p> <p> Although neither Ruslan Kogan nor his PR representives would confirm if these panels were sourced from TP Vision directly, Kogan did offer this clue:</p> <p> "It’s clear that Philips has a different view on the industry [to other major brands] and it’s only inevitable that others will follow soon."</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Philips.bmp" width="407" /></p> <p> A screen grab from Kogan.com showing the Philips range.</p> <p> Kogan.com has previously <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2011/09/14/article/Kogan-selling-Apple-Nikon-Canon-Samsung-including-Galaxy-Tab-10-1/NTHYTHVFEC.html" target="_blank">caused ructions in the camera, tablet and smartphone categories</a> by selling name-brand products at very competitive prices, with many units sourced through parallel channels rather than from local subsidiaries.</p> <p> "Kogan’s goal is to make ALL technology more affordable [Kogan's caps]," Kogan said.Œ"For several years, we have been selling products from the world’s biggest brands across multiple categories. These brands include Apple, Samung, Kogan, Sony, Canon, Nikon, and more."</p> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:13:20 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/29/article/Leading-Appliances-unveils-its-first-catalogue-in-time-for-Mothers-Day/HJWXWPFVFP.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/29/article/Leading-Appliances-unveils-its-first-catalogue-in-time-for-Mothers-Day/HJWXWPFVFP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Leading Appliances has launched its first catalogue — right in time for Mother’s Day. This is a big step for the industry’s newest retail group.</p> <p> Formed by unifying around 60 former Retravision members, Leading Appliances is a largely regional chain that will focus on individual members building relationships in their community. During its early stages, catalogues will form the main communication tool for the group and its members.</p> <p> Designed to appeal to gift-givers, the front page of this catalogue includes the tagline “Plenty of Great Mother’s Day Gift Ideas Inside” (their caps) and the slogan “Same Local Service, Same Friendly Staff, Products at Great Prices” (their caps).</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> <a href="http://www.leadingappliances.com.au/" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="345" src="/image/april-catalogue-1.jpg" width="300" /></a></p> <p> A page from Leading Appliances' first catalogue. Click the above image to see the full catalogue.</p> Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:28:17 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/29/article/See-Better-Homes-than-yours-thanks-to-The-Good-Guys/PWVRHIJKXL.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/29/article/See-Better-Homes-than-yours-thanks-to-The-Good-Guys/PWVRHIJKXL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> In the spirit of home improvement and macramé, <a href="http://www.bhglive.com.au/melbourne/" target="_blank">Better Homes and Gardens Live</a> will be rolling into Melbourne this weekend, with 250 exhibitors, live cooking and craft demonstrations andŒsix stages upon which the Better Homes and Gardens talent will be spruiking the DIY message and signing autographs.</p> <p> As a tie-in with the show, The Good Guys is offering consumers the chance to <a href="http://www.thegoodblog.com.au/seasonal/promotions/better-homes-garden-live-show-win-1-of-10-double-pass-tickets/" target="_blank">win one of ten double passes to the show</a> through its blog, while Whirlpool, Soniq, Kenwood and De’Longhi have all signed up as sponsors to the event.</p> <p> UnderCurrent is always keen for a TV-show-turned-exhibition-turned-autograph-signing, but aside from giving consumers the chance to choose their next refrigerator, coffee machine or mixer, it’s the creatively named hands-on sessions that are the most exciting.</p> <p> Why not try “Enchanting Embellished Stamping” or “Make a Swishy Tassel Key Ring” with Julia Matthews? Head over to the Make & Take Workshop for “Just Bead It – How to Make Dazzling Earrings”. And if chef Karen Martini’s “Egg and Bacon Celebration” cooking class doesn’t take your fancy, there are almost ten separate keynote talks on herb gardens.</p> <p> Better Homes and Gardens Live will run from Friday 3 May to Sunday 5 May 2013.</p> Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:14:13 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/29/article/Online-retailers-leading-price-wars-in-appliances-and-electronics/LIPKQMDYHP.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/29/article/Online-retailers-leading-price-wars-in-appliances-and-electronics/LIPKQMDYHP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> While average sales prices in appliance categories have remained stable during 2013, the consumer electronics categories have suffered a decline of over 10 per cent per annum, with price erosion in tablet computers particularly devastating, according to a report released by Credit Suisse.</p> <p> Research performed by analysts Grant Saligari and James O’Brien confirmed what many in the retail electronics and appliance industries have long suspected: online retailers are considerably cheaper than bricks and mortar stores.</p> <p> “Price deflation in most consumer electronics categories has accelerated during March and April 2013 following a period of prices holding up during the start of 2013,” the Credit Suisse report said.</p> <p> “A lack of promotional discounting has left the rate of deflation steady in our whitegoods basket. The category experiences relatively fewer price fluctuations than consumer electronics. Currently Whitegoods products in survey are deflating at 4.5 per cent per annum, on average.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Of the retailers studied for this report, Credit Suisse found Harvey Norman to have the highest advertised prices for whitegoods and small appliances, followed by Bing Lee, The Good Guys, JB Home, Masters and Appliances Online.</p> <p> Noticeable trends during the first four months of 2013 include a gradual rise in advertised prices at JB Home and a sharp decline for The Good Guys.</p> <p> “Appliances Online is the price leader in whitegoods retailing,” the report concludes. “Masters and JB Home present prices around 2-to-4 per cent above Appliances Online and were joined by The Good Guys in February in presenting this price proposition.</p> <p> “Harvey Norman and Bing Lee display advertised prices consistently above the other retailers in our sample. We see risk to Harvey Norman through this pricing position by appearing uncompetitive in an industry moving towards an ‘everyday low price’ model.”</p> <p> This time last year, Appliances Online CEO John Winning hit out at retailers advertising the cheapest prices, with specific reference to JB Hi-Fi.</p> <p> “It has been widely reported that electronics retailer JB Hi-Fi has slumped to a three-year low, after the chain cut its full-year profit outlook because rampant discounting has damaged margins. 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,” <a href="http://winning.com.au/blog/marketing/the-great-pricing-debate/" target="_blank">Winning wrote in a blog entry dated 2 May 2012</a>.</p> <p> In the consumer electronics categories, Dick Smith is the most expensive, followed by Harvey Norman JB Hi-Fi and Kogan. All four retailers are currently showing long term declines in advertised prices.</p> <p> Looking at individual categories, price declines in TVs and Cameras have been around 15-to-20 per cent, while tablets have suffered a drastic 24.1 per cent decline since mid-2012, including a 10 per cent drop during March 2013.</p> Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:36:07 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/29/article/Kambrook-back-on-TV-after-decades-long-hiatus/YHLJZGXNQV.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/29/article/Kambrook-back-on-TV-after-decades-long-hiatus/YHLJZGXNQV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Almost three decades since Kambrook last appeared on television in an advertising campaign, the famous Australian brand is back on the box in support of its new One Pot Wonders range.</p> <p> While lacking the glitz and glamour of its <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/01/24/article/Kambrook-Talent-Time---the-greatest-TVCs-ever/OZVLGGRPYJ.html" target="_blank">Young Talent Time series</a>, the new batch of TVCs do explain why consumers should invest in new small appliances.</p> <p> The first spot, which aired last night, includes the Soup Simple Soup Maker and the Pressure Express Pressure Cooker. The commercials will air until Mother’s Day on Sunday 12 May 2013.</p> <p> Œ</p> Mon, 29 Apr 2013 12:59:57 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/29/article/SodaStream-and-V-Zug-to-sparkle-and-sizzle-at-Sydney-Home-Show/IVWHREQROH.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/29/article/SodaStream-and-V-Zug-to-sparkle-and-sizzle-at-Sydney-Home-Show/IVWHREQROH.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> After a successful run in Melbourne, the <a href="http://www.sydneyhomeshow.com.au/" target="_blank">HIA Home Show is heading to Sydney next month</a> with a four day program of events for consumer and trade visitors. Held at the Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre from Thursday 16 May to Sunday 19 May, the event will feature more than 250 exhibitors from the building, design, interiors and appliance industries.</p> <p> Following its appearance at <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/06/22/article/First-look-at-the-Sydney-Good-Food--Wine-Show-Image-Gallery/KWLZEXVDRD.html" target="_blank">last year’s Good Food and Wine Show</a>, SodaStream will be continuing its marketing offensive with an appearance at the Sydney HIA Home Show. The brand will be showing off a number of products, including its new ‘Source’ and ‘Revolution’ drinks makers, with visitors given the opportunity to test the appliances and enter to win a SodaStream prize pack.</p> <p> TV veterinarian and media personality Dr Katrina Warren will also be appearing at the show to demonstrate the range.Œ</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Cooking appliance brand V-Zug will also be showcasing its wares at the dedicated V-Zug Cooking School stand, with chefs including Justin North and V-Zug’s own executive chef Felix Halter set to conduct demonstrations.</p> <p> The 267-strong list of exhibitors features a number of kitchen and laundry appliance brands and retailers, as well as AV and home entertainment companies, including: Beko Best Kitchens, Wollongong Bora Caffe Italiano and Casa Espresso Dynaudio Loudspeakers Exception Group Freshield Grays Online Laurastar Life Style Store, Parramatta Munro Direct – Food Vacuum Sealers Nobby Kitchens Oziel Eco Appliances Reckitt Benckiser SodaStream V-Zug</p> Mon, 29 Apr 2013 12:25:38 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/Breville-to-start-Heston-testing-in-new-TVC-campaign-starting-Sunday/AOHFYXVKUD.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/Breville-to-start-Heston-testing-in-new-TVC-campaign-starting-Sunday/AOHFYXVKUD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Will the phrase “Heston tested” ever enter our vernacular? Breville certainly hopes so. Having signed on the much loved Heston Blumenthal to be its global ambassador, Breville is now beginning what will surely be a substantial TVC campaign, debuting its new advertisement during My Kitchen Rules this Sunday.</p> <p> Joining Heston in Breville’s ad is design team member Garth Ryan. Together, they compete to create a shepherd’s pie using the new All in One food processor (BSB530, RRP $199).</p> <p> “Breville’s commitment is to drive store traffic leading up to Mother’s Day,” said Breville marketing communications manager Richard Babekuhl. “The All in One campaign includes numerous touch points to capture as much consumer attention as possible.”</p> <p> “Including TV, online content, social media activity, a cashback offer, in-store demonstrations and point-of-sale material, the campaign starts on Sunday 28 April 2013 and runs throughout May.”</p> <p> In addition to running on the Sunbeam-sponsored My Kitchen Rules, the ad will also air during the Breville-sponsored Everyday Gourmet. Naturally, it is also getting a go during Heston’s Feasts on the Lifestyle channel.</p> <p> <p> And here’s Richard Babekuhl talking about the All in One’s provenance:</p> <p> “Our designers started with the Choice recommended stick mixer, and then reengineered all of the best attachments from the Australian International Design Award-winning Kitchen Wizz Pro into a compact food processor powered by the Control Grip.Œ With ease of use in mind, they incorporated detachable gearboxes so that everything from the variable mashing attachment to the 1.6L processing bowl is dishwasher-safe.”</p> Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:23:06 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/Minty-fresh-new-cordless-phones-in-the-iDECT-range/VYBKUBMZCP.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/Minty-fresh-new-cordless-phones-in-the-iDECT-range/VYBKUBMZCP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Publicly listed consumer electronics supplier Mint Technology has a new range of home phones under its iDECT brand. There are three new series in this range — Eclipse, Solo and Cabrera — all available in single, twin and triple packs; and in three colours: black, white and red.</p> <p> The team in charge of Mint Technology’s phone range, managing direct Kuni Ishii and marketing manager Samantha Young, learnt the market while working at Uniden, bringing with them sizable knowledge of the category.</p> <p> “People are still using the landline,” Ishii said. “The same trends that are happening here occurred in the US as well. In the US market, it was really competitive about 10 years ago, but the corded and cordless market is still going.</p> <p> “In Australia, a lot of people use ADSL for their internet. If you are going to use ADSL, you need to get a landline and you need a phone number.”</p> <p> As phone lines are replaced with cable in Australia, Ishii expects to see technological advances making home phones more functional and practical. An example he gives is the ability for the caller ID of incoming calls to be displayed on a TV screen.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The iDECT is targeted at the mid-to-high end of the market and has a noticeable design focus. The Eclipse range, which has a curved, circular form factor, starts at RRP $149; while the futuristic Solo series begins at RRP $59.</p> <p> “If a manufacturer hits a price point like $29.95, then of course it’s going to move; then once you start focusing on that price, people start to think, ‘phones are cheap’.</p> <p> “How are we going to differentiate? Through the look and how the technology works. Every supplier has a responsibility to the market regarding which direction people will go.”</p> <p> The Eclipse Series features DECT 6.0 technology, handsfree speakerphone, eco-saving modes, an integrated answering machine and a 200-entry name and number phonebook. Twin packs (RRP $229) and triple packs (RRP $349) are also available.</p> <p> The Solo Range has similar features to the Eclipse but with a phonebook half the size. Additional handset packs are available for RRP $99 (twin) and $139 (triple).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Elcipse REDfront bg.bmp" width="317" /></p> <p> The iDECT Eclipse is one of the most striking cordless phones available. Œ</p> Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:07:47 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/Avoid-dishwasher-washing-with-an-Omega-compact-and-some-cleaning-tips/SIUXZGDBED.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/Avoid-dishwasher-washing-with-an-Omega-compact-and-some-cleaning-tips/SIUXZGDBED.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Consumers buy dishwashers so they don’t have to wash the dishes but what happens when you need to clean your dishwasher? Darren Sharvell, product development manager for Omega at Shriro, has some helpful tips for retailers to share with consumers.</p> <p> “There are a number of ways to maintain the interior of a dishwasher,” Sharvell said. “Pour a cup of vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher and run an empty load. This will help to clean out any old food particles and to keep your dishwasher smelling fresh.</p> <p> “Clean the spray arms and filtration system regularly — the manual will provide details of how you should do this. This process will help avoid food being trapped in these areas for long periods of time.</p> <p> “Wipe down the seals of the dishwasher occasionally with a damp cloth. This will help maintain the longevity of the dishwasher.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The best way to minimise having to clean a dishwasher is to make sure you purchase the right sized model for your needs. In order to cut down on cleaning, plus maximising potential water and energy savings, apartment dwellers should consider a compact dishwasher.</p> <p> “Dishwashers these days are much more versatile than they once were and the Omega compact series of dishwashers are proof of that,” Sharvell said. “Compact dishwashers provide users with an alternative to larger dishwashers; where they don’t have the space or the opportunity to install a standard dishwasher, giving them the same levels of convenience.</p> <p> “These units are perfect for space saving in a small kitchen, if you are renting, in bedsits or granny flats where space is limited, in alfresco areas for convenience, or for an extra dishwasher in a wet kitchen.”</p> Fri, 26 Apr 2013 13:45:22 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/Consumers-vote-sales-increase--But-first-you-must-enter-/EXJGPBVPHF.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/Consumers-vote-sales-increase--But-first-you-must-enter-/EXJGPBVPHF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Product of the Year's tagline is “Consumers vote, sales increase”. But before marketers can sit back and watch the bar on the GfK chart become a skyscraper they must first compete.</p> <p> Entries are now open for the 2014 Product of the Year Awards. Unlike in previous years, where FMCG has been the clear focus, the organisers are now targeting growth through the appliance categories. While no specific sub-categories are available — such as Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, Microwaves — there is scope for all appliances to be included.</p> <p> While it is free to enter the Awards, it is not free to win. Long listed products are required to pay $6,000 to progress to the Jury Stage and winners must pay a further $17,500. These amounts cover all licensing of the Product of the Year logo for use in promotional material and the actual awards night is to free to attend. There is a $500 discount on entries received before 5 July 2013.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Here’s how Product of the Year describes the Jury Process:</p> <p> “Once all products have been submitted, a Jury of distinguished industry professionals is invited to review the submitted products to ensure that the innovation criteria are met before they go on the consumer research.”</p> <p> The organisers of the Awards have told Current.com.au that the most appealing part of the process for suppliers is the next stage: the public vote. In addition to selecting their favourite product from among the entries, consumers must also provide reasons and feedback, which is then packaged and sent to the suppliers as part of the fee.</p> <p> “We partner with leading global research firm Nielsen to conduct the study – Australia’s biggest independent consumer survey on innovation. Nielsen administers the study and puts together a detailed research report highlighting your category and general information on shopping trends and innovation. As a finalist, win or lose, you receive this report in exchange for participation.”</p> <p> Entries close on 2 August 2013. Once a supplier enters a product, it cannot back out of the process and will be liable for the Jury and Winners fees should the product progress that far.</p> Fri, 26 Apr 2013 13:20:51 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/New-Bissell-cordless-vacuum-set-to-AirRAM-raid-the-market/QTGMKIEZMW.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/New-Bissell-cordless-vacuum-set-to-AirRAM-raid-the-market/QTGMKIEZMW.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Back in the 1980s, early model TV remote controls were actually wired to the television set – the convenience was that you could still control some of the functionality from your sofa, provided it was within a 2-metre radius of the device.</p> <p> Back in the 1990s, early model mobile phones came equipped with a suitcase, combining an antenna and a battery pack, that you carried over your shoulder – the convenience was that you theoretically could make a phone call from anywhere, provided you had taken your peptides that day.</p> <p> Back in the 2000s, transferring media from a computer to a device required a painfully slow USB transfer – the convenience was that you could actually watch a movie on a plane, provided you paid a small fortune for a 1GB MircoSD card.</p> <p> The point is: cords are irritating.</p> <p> And wherever cords exist, convenience is always limited.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Appliance manufacturers know this as much as the gadget crowd. Appliances are generally stationary — washing machines and refrigerators are rarely moved once set in place — but in those appliance categories where portability exists, cordlessness is a vertiginous pursuit.</p> <p> Sir James Dyson, in his relentless pursuit of vacuuming perfection – a sport he enjoys almost as much as litigation – has released a series of outstanding cordless products, the DC44 Animal stick vac being first among unequals.</p> <p> While not necessarily in direct competition with Dyson’s cordless offerings, American company Bissell has woken from its hibernation to unveil a bagless upright vacuum, the AirRAM (RRP $399), with around 40 minutes of cordless operation off one full 4-hour charge of its 22-volt Li-ion battery.</p> <p> It may be heavier and sturdier than its battery powered rivals – and perhaps not as attractive, if floorcare aesthetics is important – but its technology and cleaning performance is peerless.</p> <p> The AirRAM’s advantage is the placement of the motor in the head of the cleaner, between the brush and dust bin, meaning the motor has less work to do when sucking and transporting detritus from carpet to canister. To improve usability, the battery is detachable from the vacuum-proper, meaning it can be charged on a tabletop while the AirRAM stays hidden in the cupboard.</p> <p> Bissell has been keeping a low profile over the past few years, focusing closely on the steam cleaning category, which has a rich heritage in TV shopping sales to complement a retail presence. If the AirRAM is an indicator of what is in store in traditional vacuuming from these venerable Michiganders, then bully for them.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/BISSELL AirRAM-74 LR.jpg" width="450" /></p> <p> American companies are great at providing lifestyle shots.</p> Fri, 26 Apr 2013 12:55:05 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/New-Laurastar-LIFT---A-New-Way-Of-Ironing/AOIOHRPSAQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/05/01/article/New-Laurastar-LIFT---A-New-Way-Of-Ironing/AOIOHRPSAQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> LaurastarŒLIFT -ŒA New Way Of Ironing</p> <p> <img alt="" height="424" src="/image/LAURASTAR_LIFT_red_wb.jpg" width="300" /> A revolution in ironing technology and design. Six smart features that make ironing a breeze. 1 - Easy to carry handle 2 - Secure storage compartment for the iron 3 - Steam cordŒand power cord storage 4 - Removable 1.1-litre water tank 5 - 3 minute heat up, 50psi/3.5bar pressure 6 - Easy to place on any surface with its feet. Everything you ever need is included, just add water. - Integrated water filter to reduce calcium build up - Insulating silicone matt to rest the iron - Teflon shoe for delicates - Universal cord minder for all boards. Technical specifications - Total weight 5.3kg - Iron weight 1kg - 2,200 watts - 3.5bar/50psi - 2 year warranty - Made in the European Union</p> <p> Available in 3 contemporary colours, Original Red, Extra Taupe, Pure White FREECALL: 1800 999 910 <a href="http://www.laurastarlift.com.au">www.laurastarlift.com.au</a> <a href="mailto:info@laurastar.com.au">info@laurastar.com.au</a></p> Wed, 01 May 2013 01:16:14 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/Electrolux-TURBOPRO-stick-mixer/ITNAJMNFPK.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/26/article/Electrolux-TURBOPRO-stick-mixer/ITNAJMNFPK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> The Electrolux TURBOPRO stick mixer combines excellent performance and powerful features. <img alt="" height="164" src="/image/Ultramix_Pro_Hero_01_01_WIP1.jpg" width="299" /> This intuitive stick mixer will take your cuisine to the next level, whether it’s whisking an egg, grinding a flavoursome curry paste or blending an icy cold cocktail.</p> <p> Electrolux Small Appliances are available at Australia’s finest electrical retailers and department stores. For details of stockists call 1300 365 305 or visit <a href="http://www.electrolux.com.au">www.electrolux.com.au</a>. </p> Fri, 26 Apr 2013 12:27:51 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/24/article/Samsung-Galaxy-S4-Wrap-up-of-pricing-plans-and-availability/KYFVGMGUTA.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/24/article/Samsung-Galaxy-S4-Wrap-up-of-pricing-plans-and-availability/KYFVGMGUTA.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> After first unveiling the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/03/15/article/Samsung-Galaxy-S-4-Feature-wrap-up-availability-and-first-impressions/SHODGHWZCD" target="_blank">Galaxy S4 smartphone</a> at its Unpacked launch in New York last month, Samsung has brought the phone to Australia, unveiling the device at Sydney’s Opera House last night.</p> <p> The device will be available through Samsung from Saturday 27 April 2013, for an RRP of $899. The phone will also go on presale through the Samsung Experience Stores in Sydney and Melbourne from today, as well as at a pop-up experience booth that has been set up on the western forecourt of the Opera House. Importantly for Australian consumers, the phone will be compatible with Australia’s 4G LTE network.</p> <p> The S4 will also be available through Samsung’s telco partners, with the brand announcing that Telstra, Vodafone, Optus and Virgin would all have access to stock from launch. Operators have already begun presales.</p> <p> Current.com.au took a look at what's on offer.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Telstra </p> <p> Consumers can buy the S4 on the $80 Every Day Connect Plan with a $7 handset repayment per month (after using an included MRO Bonus). This includes $800 worth of standard national calls and MMS, unlimited text messaging to standard Australian numbers and 1.5GB of data for use in Australia. This 24-month contract has a minimum total cost of $2,088.</p> <p> Business customers can buy the S4 on the $80 Business Performance Plan with a $7 handset repayment per month (after using an included MRO Bonus).ŒThis includes the same call, MMS, text and data as above on a 24 month contract, with a minimum total cost of $2,088.</p> <p> The device is also available outright forŒ$816 (from “select Telstra stores” from 27 April 2013).</p> <p> Vodafone</p> <p> Vodafone is <a href="http://www.vodafone.com.au/personal/android/samsung-galaxy-s4?pid=v:pers:home:main:ban:ban:samsung-galaxy-s4-5on60" target="_blank">offering a number of plans</a>, with an extra 1GB of free data being offered for the first 12 months of 24-month plans above $60. The Galaxy S4 is available for $20 on the Vodafone $30 Plan (total minimum cost $1,200), for $15 on the Vodafone $40 Plan (total minimum cost $1,320), $10 on the Vodafone $50 Plan (total minimum cost $1,440), $5 on the Vodafone $60 Plan (total minimum cost $1,560) $0 on the Vodafone $80 Plan (total minimum cost $1,920) and $0 on the Vodafone $100 Plan (total minimum cost $2,400).</p> <p> Preorders start today.</p> <p> Optus</p> <p> Consumers can get the GS4 on a number of plans ranging from $30 up to $130 (see the full <a href="https://www.optus.com.au/shop/mobilephones/samsung/galaxys4?SID=con:mob:lp:her:1:gs4:::img" target="_blank">Optus Galaxy S4 page</a> for the fine print). As a guide, the $60 Optus Plan with a $7 monthly handset repayment (after $20 monthly handset credit) is a 24-month contract, minimum total cost $1,512.</p> <p> Preorders start today.</p> <p> Virgin Mobile</p> <p> <a href="http://www.virginmobile.com.au/samsung-galaxy-s4/?i_cid=1002001" target="_blank">Existing Virgin customers can "re-contract" with the Galaxy S4</a> to receive an offer of $2 monthly handset repayments on the Big Plan $59. This 24-month contract has aŒminimum total cost of $1,464 and includes $700 plan credit, 3GB data, unlimited mobile calls and text Virgin-to-Virgin within Australia.</p> <p> New customers can get the GS4 for $7 monthly handset repayments on the Big Plan $59. The 24-month contract has a minimum total cost of $1,584 and includes $700 plan credit, 3GB data, unlimited mobile calls and text Virgin-to-Virgin within Australia.</p> <p> Orders start Saturday 27 April 2013.</p> Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:02:42 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/24/article/The-eyes-have-it-at-Samsung-Galaxy-S4-launch/WMDPRFYTJL.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/24/article/The-eyes-have-it-at-Samsung-Galaxy-S4-launch/WMDPRFYTJL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent is a massive fan of infographics so it was well chuffed to find that Samsung has created a bespoke visual aid to highlight all the extra special features it has packed into its feature-overloaded, well-featured Galaxy S4 handset.</p> <p> <a href="http://i.imgur.com/GuuDBKN.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="402" src="/image/Hidden Innovations in the GALAXY S4(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></p> <p> (click image for closer look)</p> <p> Having past the seven different in-built sensors to attend the launch event in Sydney last night, UnderCurrent had the chance to play with this whizz-bang new gadget.</p> <p> The automatic eye detection, which isn’t even referenced directly in the above graphic, is especially outstanding. The handset can recognise when a user is reading text and, with a nod of the head to indicate that it has reached the bottom of the screen, will automatically scroll down.</p> <p> Even users without heads can achieve touch-less control, UnderCurrent observed, as the Air Gesture feature means waving the hands above the screen can control the device.</p> Wed, 24 Apr 2013 10:51:10 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/24/article/Betta-announces-Retailer-of-the-Year-and-new-focus-on-housewares/FMQJTBIAVQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/24/article/Betta-announces-Retailer-of-the-Year-and-new-focus-on-housewares/FMQJTBIAVQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Thomo’s Betta North Rockhampton has been named the Betta Home Living Retailer of the Year 2013 at the retail group’s annual conference in Hong Kong, with the Queensland Betta store being chosen from among more than 200 stores across Australia for the award.</p> <p> The award was presented at the company’s “That’s Betta” conference, which has been timed to coincide with the Hong Kong Houseware Fair and will run until tomorrow.</p> <p> Speaking about the award, which was presented to the store’s owners and operators, Gary and Carmel Thomasson, BSR Group CEO Graeme Cunningham said the store had been a strong part of the Betta retail group since opening in 1990.</p> <p> “Our Retailer of the Year has demonstrated sales growth year upon year and dedication to the Betta brand,” said Cunningham. “After 23 years of servicing the Rockhampton community with electrical appliances the family has forged a strong reputation for the service, knowledge and experience they offer for customers.</p> <p> “Betta Home Living is undergoing some exciting changes and enjoying encouraging results and Thomo’s Betta North Rockhampton has made a notable contribution to that success.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The company also used the annual conference to announce a new marketing strategy for the recently rebranded Betta Home Living store network, previously known as Betta Electrical. The “That’s Betta” marketing campaign (also the name of this year’s conference) is aimed at drawing consumer attention to Betta’s new focus on the homewares category, according to Cunningham.</p> <p> “We’ve expanded by 80 new stores over the last year,” he said. “And last year we had 20 stores in furniture and now we have double that, with even more stores set to come on board in the coming months.</p> <p> “The next step in the program is to invest in the brand while we continue to roll more stores over into Betta Home Living.</p> <p> “We’ll certainly be looking at other categories and investigating opportunities to further the Betta Home Living brand while we are [in Hong Kong],” he added. “In particular we’ll be concentrating on the cooking market, hence our partnership with ‘Captain of Cooking’ Matt Hayden.”</p> <p> Cunningham also talked up Betta’s positive results over the past year at the conference, saying increased revenues had allowed for “a greater proportion of income to be returned to retailers”.</p> <p> “The group’s benchmark “pass-back” indicator is expected to exceed an unprecedented high percentage of total income returned in FY2013,” he said. “We’ve been tracking above what the market has been doing. There’s a more positive feel out in the marketplace and I think the next 12 months will be better than the last.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="242" src="/image/Betta Retailer 2013.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> From left to right: Graeme Cunningham (CEO Betta Home Living); Garry Thyer (chairman of the board, Betta Home Living); Gary Thomasson (owner/operator, North Rockhampton Betta Home Living); Carmel Thomasson (owner/operator, North Rockhampton Betta Home Living); Matthew Hayden (former Australian test cricketer and “Betta's Captain of Cooking”).</p> Wed, 24 Apr 2013 10:16:54 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/24/article/State-by-state-Anzac-Day-2013-retail-trading-hours/MXMPOYXULL.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/24/article/State-by-state-Anzac-Day-2013-retail-trading-hours/MXMPOYXULL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Thursday 25 April 2013 is the 98th anniversary of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps’ arrival at Gallipoli, in Turkey, as part of Churchill’s disastrous Dardanelles Campaign of World War I.</p> <p> To recognise that day and to pay tribute to the men and women that have fought in that War and all other wars, Anzac Day is a public holiday in all states and territories of Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> There are different shop trading rules governing when retailers may open on Anzac Day, as listed below:</p> <p> New South Wales</p> <p> Before 1pm, stores cannot open unless they meet the State Government’s criteria for an exemption. Generally, this means the store has fewer than two owners and no more than four regular employees. Further exemptions apply for stores located inspecific local government areas.</p> <p> There are no restrictions after 1pm.</p> <p> Victoria</p> <p> Before 1pm, a store must have an exemption to open. The criteria for exemption is having 20 or fewer employees on the day and having 100 or fewer employees in the week leading up to the day.</p> <p> There are no restrictions are 1pm.</p> <p> Queensland</p> <p> All non food and grocery shops must close all day except for independent retail stores, which may open after 1pm. Exemptions to this rule include gambling houses, licensed premises, petrol stations, newsagencies and providers of “essential services”, which otherwise goes undefined. Unless a non-independent electronics store has received its own exemption from the State Government, it cannot open.</p> <p> South Australia</p> <p> Non-exempt shops can trade from 12pm until 5pm.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.safework.sa.gov.au/show_page.jsp?id=2329" target="_blank">Exempt shops</a>, which form the vast majority of South Australia’s retail sector, are asked to remain closed until 12pm as a mark of respect.</p> <p> Western Australia</p> <p> All shops must remain closed all day, unless they qualify as small, which is defined as having six or fewer owners, owning few than three shops, with no more than 18 employees working at any one time.</p> <p> Tasmania</p> <p> Retailer or franchise groups with more than 250 employees must remain closed until 12pm. There are no restrictions on smaller retailers.</p> <p> Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory</p> <p> There are no restrictions at all in the two territories. ----- Anzac Day has become a particularly important day for Australian and New Zealand sports fans, with the AFL and NRL each staging two games tomorrow – some with more tradition that others.</p> <p> At the MCG, from 2:40pm, Essendon will play Collingwood, while at Westpac Stadium in Wellington St Kilda takes on Sydney from 7:50pm (local time) in the first ever AFL match to be played in New Zealand.</p> <p> In the NRL, the Sydney Roosters will battle the St George Illawarra Dragons from 4pm at Allianz Stadium, followed at 7pm with the Melbourne Storm versus the New Zealand Warriors at AAMI Park.</p> <p> Patrick’s tips:</p> <p> Collingwood by 1 point Sydney by 30 points</p> <p> St George Illawarra by 7 points Melbourne Storm by 18 pointsŒ</p> Wed, 24 Apr 2013 10:11:15 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/23/article/Cygnett-is-no-ugly-duckling-with-Samsung-Galaxy-S4-cases/QLJTYGRBUA.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/23/article/Cygnett-is-no-ugly-duckling-with-Samsung-Galaxy-S4-cases/QLJTYGRBUA.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent is just like every other fictional character in the world right now: it cannot wait for the launch tonight of the new Samsung Galaxy S4! Lisa Simpson might complain that it's just a new hat, but UnderCurrent knows best: this is greatest technological development since Apollo 11.</p> <p> Like a child on the night before Christmas, which was the most important annual event prior to the launch of the original Samsung Galaxy S, UnderCurrent has been forced to occupy its time this last week as the slow seconds tick painfully towards this eveningŒ- painful like a bite to arm by masticating striker Luis Suarez.</p> <p> Thanks Ford for Cygnett! In advance of the Galaxy S4, the Melbourne-based digital accessories brand has unveiledŒa very strong and eclectic range of cases. Unlike actual swans, which only come in black and white, Cygnett cases come in a multitude of designs and styles.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/CY1169CXFRO_Feel_charcoal-GS4_High_Res.jpg" width="311" /></p> <p> This variety is called 'Feel' (CY1169CXFRO, RRP $24.95).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="312" src="/image/CY1179CXICO_Icon-Ronnie-Perentie-GS4_High_Res.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> This design with animistic tones is called 'Icon' (CY1179CXICO, RRP $29.95).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="312" src="/image/CY1196CXWOR_WorkMate_orange-GS4_High_Res.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Popular with Richmond, Hull City and Wests Tigers fans is the 'WorkMate' (CY1196CXWOR, RRP $34.95).</p> <p> According to popular legened, all the swans in the United Kingdom are owned by Queen Elizabeth II.</p> Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:33:02 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/23/article/TV-expert-calls-for-patience-on-Ultra-HD-TV-roll-out/UJKPUEDMZQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/23/article/TV-expert-calls-for-patience-on-Ultra-HD-TV-roll-out/UJKPUEDMZQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By James Wells in Sardinia, Italy</p> <p> The rush to make Ultra HD (also called ‘4K') the next 3D and the important role that China has to play up against Sony, Samsung and LG may see the new technology quickly fly or die.</p> <p> Speaking at the IFA press conference in Sardinia this week, DisplaySearch director of European TV research, Paul Gray, has called on the television to show patience and not rush in with unfinished products.</p> <p> “If you are selling Ultra HD, you will need to use that resolution to offer a rich detailed experience and offer that real ‘wow’ experience for graphics.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Gray claims that rather than introducing Ultra HD to a captive market, this new standard may enable the mass rollout of the former generation of Full HD technology which has occurred previously.</p> <p> “There could be a poisoning of the water,” Gray said. “People are rushing in to make an experience like 3D that itself was far from finished. Products that are not future-proofed, and offer little more than numbers marketing will turn consumers off and they will detect the poor value for money. If Ultra HD becomes numbers marketing it will fail.”</p> <p> According to Gray, China could play an important role in the success or failure of Ultra HD technology.</p> <p> “The balance of power is moving to China which is learning more about the technology. Chinese manufacturers are keen to take on a technological challenge and break out into the export market as the domestic market is slowing.</p> <p> “At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier this year all of the Chinese manufacturers had Ultra HD demonstrations — the same as their non domestic competition.</p> <p> “The test for the Chinese will not be manufacturing the first 10,000 or the first 100,000 Ultra HD panels, but the first 10 million,” he said.</p> <p> To hear more from Paul Gray, click on the video below...Œ</p> <p> </p> Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:18:36 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/23/article/As-Click-Frenzy-counts-down-Harvey-Norman-joins-the-action/GPPQPGPCVP.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/23/article/As-Click-Frenzy-counts-down-Harvey-Norman-joins-the-action/GPPQPGPCVP.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> After a bungled launch last year, online sales event Click Frenzy is back for round two, with a <a href="http://www.clickfrenzy.com.au/mothers-day-sale" target="_blank">Mother’s Day-focused sale</a> launching on its website at 7pm tonight. For fans of consumer electronics and appliances, a number of electrical retailers and suppliersŒwill be participating this year, including Myer, Bing Lee, Masters, Dell, Lenovo and the Apple Store.</p> <p> This year, Harvey Norman is chiming in on the action and <a href="http://www.harveynorman.com.au/hot-deals?intcmp=HNAU-7225" target="_blank">hosting its very own “Shop Frenzy”</a>, timed to start one hour before the Click Frenzy at 6pm. The move by Harveys follows similar sales held during last year’s Click Frenzy by <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/11/20/article/The-Good-Guys-mocks-Click-Frenzy-rivals-promotes-own-Cyber-ale/DTUDPCLKEM.html" target="_blank">The Good Guys</a> and David Jones, which aimed to lure consumers away from the well publicised sales site.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Despite being heavily promoted in the lead up to its launch, last year’s <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/11/20/article/Click-Frenzy-an-embarrassment-for-online-retailers-and-organisers/HIPWQTWOCM.html" target="_blank">Click Frenzy was marred by website failures</a>, slow loading times and internet browser error screens as excess traffic overloaded servers — not only of the Click Frenzy site itself, but also on websites of other retailers such as Myer, Dick Smith and Bing Lee.</p> <p> The Good Guys was not part of Click Frenzy, but rather hosted its own “Cyber $ale” promoting cash back offers on products. When Current.com.au visited the site at peak hour during the sale, the website was perfectly functional.</p> <p> Harvey Norman’s sale is set to last for 25 hours and, unlike the Click Frenzy sale, consumers are able to shop online as well as in-store. Harveys is currently taking registrations for tonight’s sale, with consumers able to sign up “to see the deals first”.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="153" src="/image/HN Shop Frenzy_300.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> The countdown for Harvey Norman's "Shop Frenzy" sale event has begun.</p> <p> Full list of electrical retailers and suppliers participating in Click Frenzy's Mother's Day sale: Apple Store Appliances Online Appliance Sales Direct Big Brown Box Bing Lee Dell Godfreys Lenovo Masters Mobileciti Myer Shaver Shop Totally Electronics Unique Mobiles</p> <p> Œ</p> Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:16:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/23/article/JB-Hi-Fi-worming-into-book-market-is-a-no-brainer/IOGQHIBAPG.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/23/article/JB-Hi-Fi-worming-into-book-market-is-a-no-brainer/IOGQHIBAPG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> The expansion of JB Hi-Fi’s NOW platform into book selling is a “no-brainer” due to its huge market value, according to marketing director Scott Browning.</p> <p> Speaking to Current.com.au shortly after its launch yesterday afternoon, Browning said marketing books fit seamlessly into the JB Hi-Fi retail proposition.</p> <p> “At over $2.5 billion, the retail book category in Australia is bigger than DVDs and CDs combined and eBook popularity is growing rapidly because of connected devices like tablets and smartphones,” Browning said. “This is a ‘no-brainer’ for JB Hi-Fi.</p> <p> “Books are a natural extension of the home entertainment content offering, which our regular customers are already heavily engaged.</p> <p> “The JB Hi-Fi online and digital ecosystems are a perfect environment for us to engage our customers with the rapidly growing eBook category, linking in with our extensive IT hardware offer and popular gift card program.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Browning said JB management was satisfied with the performance of its JB NOW music service, having seen “exponential growth in permanent subscribers and streams”.</p> <p> This is the latest in a string of examples of how JB Hi-Fi is expanding its product offering tangentially, as Browning explained.</p> <p> “We have always looked closely at the relationship between the devices we sell and the consumption behaviours they support,” he said.</p> <p> “Whether that was selling CDs with audio equipment, DVSs with DVD players, Blu-ray players with high definition TVs, games with consoles or headphones with iPods. And now digital content with connected mobility such as tablets and smartphones.”</p> Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:34:05 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/JB-Hi-Fi-starts-selling-eBooks-through-new-JB-NOW-Books-platform/RBTWPIRACC.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/JB-Hi-Fi-starts-selling-eBooks-through-new-JB-NOW-Books-platform/RBTWPIRACC.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi has expanded its digital content offering to now include books. Launched today (Monday 22 April 2013), JB NOW Books offers eBooks for iOS and Android devices, plus some other eReaders and personal computers, but not for Kindles.</p> <p> <a href="https://books.jbhifi.com.au/" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="300" src="/image/JB Books.bmp" width="417" /></a></p> <p> (click above to access JB NOW Books)</p> <p> “JB Hi-Fi NOW Books is your one stop shop for all your eBook needs!” said a company statement. “Once you have registered with JB Hi-Fi NOW you can purchase, store and download eBooks from our ever growing catalogue of new releases, bestsellers, classics and award winning titles — some eBooks are even free!”</p> <p> To register with JB Hi-Fi NOW, users need to set up a free account using their mobile phone number. For music streaming, customers then choose the subscription platform to best meet their needs. For Books, users need to have an Adobe Digital Editions ID, which is available for free.</p> <p> “You will be able to read any eBook purchased on our site on a number of computers, tablets, dedicated eReading devices and smartphones that support Adobe DRM,” continued the spokesperson. “You cannot currently read eBooks sold on JB Hi-Fi NOW Books on your Amazon Kindle devices as Kindles do not support Adobe DRM.”</p> <p> Books available at JB NOW include the Song of Ice and Fire series (JRR Martin), Wuthering Heights (Emily Bronte), The Lord of the Rings (JRR Tolkien) and The Bible (various).</p> <p> Unavailable books include The Perks of Being a Wallflower (Chbosky), Atlas Shrugged (Rand) and the Harry Potter series (JK Rowling).</p> <p> JB Hi-Fi has been actively diversifying its product and marketing strategy since the price erosion in consumer electronics categories, especially TV, began to bite into the sales revenue all retailers in this space. In addition to launching its NOW platform, JB has rebranded its Clive Anthonys stores to JB Home and begun focusing on appliance sales and introduced musical instruments to its product range.</p> Mon, 22 Apr 2013 17:00:36 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/How-Channel-Seven-ownership-created-and-eliminated-TiVo-in-Australia/VPBGYNLPEI.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/How-Channel-Seven-ownership-created-and-eliminated-TiVo-in-Australia/VPBGYNLPEI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Special Current.com.au Feature by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> “You gotta get your TiVo, you gotta get your TiVo” screamed a breathless David Koch on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program in early 2008. The incredibly popular American PVR had just launched locally and the breakfast TV host was doing his best to drum up sales.</p> <p> There was also a TVC campaign running only on Channel Seven, inviting Home and Away and rugby union fans to “join the revolution” by enjoying TV their way with TiVo. At the time, Channel Seven had the rights to the rugby union (see TVC below).</p> <p> Channel Seven’s intimate involvement with TiVo was the reason for its entrance. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Seven Media Group (Australia), Hybrid TV, had secured the exclusive licence to market and distribute TiVo set top boxes and accessories, from its American owner TiVo Incorporated.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Hybrid TV officially launched TiVo, exclusively through Harvey Norman stores, on 1 July 2008 — five weeks before the Beijing Olympics would start airing on Channel Seven – a timing chosen to maximise publicity opportunities and early adopter sales.</p> <p> Even before this date, however, behind the scenes wrangling had commenced. Hybrid TV had originally wanted to charge a monthly subscription fee, believed to be around $10, but Harvey Norman was sceptical: it didn’t believe people would pay a high upfront cost — around $500 to $600 — if there was also a monthly charge. Hybrid TV eventually relented, ditching the fee and charging more upfront: RRP $699.</p> <p> TiVo has been a phenomenally popular hardware and service in the United States, so much so that it has entered the vernacular as a verb — ‘to TiVo’ means to record a program, no matter what device is used.</p> <p> In Australia, however, two practical difficulties stemming from Channel Seven’s ownership of Hybrid TV would compromise its functionality: TiVo would not have automatic ad skipping and it would not work with Foxtel.</p> <p> As a broadcaster reliant on advertising for its revenue, Channel Seven could not countenance a TiVo box that would automatically jump recorded programs forward 30 seconds. Furthermore, as a proponent of Freeview, then a newly-formed lobby group for the free to air networks, TiVo would not be able to record shows on Foxtel.</p> <p> While the lack of ad-skipping chagrined some of the more tech-savvy potential consumers, it wouldn’t necessarily have hurt sales. Not being compatible with pay TV, however, essentially meant that for the 2.3 million Foxtel-subscribing households there was no point in purchasing a TiVo device.</p> <p> Despite these two handicaps, the most expensive price tag of any comparable PVR and limited distribution, TiVo launched to immediate success, selling “five to six times” the volume of any other PVR, 14,000 units in total, according to Hybrid TV’s inaugural CEO Robbee Minicola, in its first five months.</p> <p> With almost $9.8 million in revenue to be shared between stakeholders, Hybrid TV was ready to expand. Minicola had aggressive targets to meet, saying in December 2008 that “We want 50,000 activated units in houses by the end of June 2009”.</p> <p> To achieve this, Hybrid TV needed to widen its distribution net. Harvey Norman lost its exclusivity in late 2008 when JB Hi-Fi and Clive Anthony’s (now ‘JB Home’) began selling TiVo. David Jones followed soon after, and then The Good Guys were added in early 2009.</p> <p> Hybrid TV also began selling its devices direct-to-consumers on its website and TiVo was added to various credit card and frequent flyer rewards programs. It was now very much a widely-accessible product, yet despite the prevailing attitude in retail consumer electronics, it was not suffering the price erosion witnessed in other categories.</p> <p> Expansion was clearly part of Minicola’s remit. In March 2009, TiVo launched in New Zealand, after public broadcaster TVNZ purchased a 33 per cent stake in Hybrid TV. To keep up with the extra demand being placed by retailers and customers in two countries, Hybrid TV appointed three new general managers, to oversee marketing and sales, New Zealand, and content and services.</p> <p> By the time Minicola arrived in Tasmania to showcase the nascent NBN at the Hybrid SmartStreet Project (see Sunrise video below), staff levels had swelled to around 50, including teams of reps travelling the country to meet with retailers.</p> <p> Hybrid TV was an early and passionate supporter of the NBN. Whereas the broad sentiment among traditional media owners is that the NBN is a threat to its business, Hybrid TV saw the NBN as an opportunity to provide more content over the internet to the TiVo box.</p> <p> At Hybrid TV’s media Christmas party at its lavish offices on Jones Bay Wharf in Pyrmont, Robbee Minicola finally unveiled a subscription service for TiVo: CASPA On-Demand.</p> <p> All new TiVo purchases — and prices were still holding up, somewhat remarkably, at $699 — would come with a free network adaptor kit, providing users with access to downloadable content on a pay-as-you-go basis.</p> <p> In a show of how ahead of its time it was, Minicola signed up three internet service providers — Internode, Primus and iiNet — to offer unmetered downloads. Hybrid TV believed consumers would eventually want to watch TV without ads, having paid a small fee for the privilege — prices on CASPA were set to mirror new release and weekly DVD rentals.</p> <p> "Taking this one step further into our future NBN-world, where we will have ubiquitous high speed broadband connections over fibre-optics achieving speeds starting at 100Mbps,” said the always bullish Minicola in late 2009. “This makes our existing copper connections look like a dripping tap with its meagre 512Kbps to 8Mbps.”</p> <p> Christmas sales were clearly strong that year; by March 2010, Hybrid TV was expanding again. In an attempt to reflect a new corporate structure, titles were changed from ‘general manger of [responsibility] to chief [responsibility] officer. Peter Sharp, the former business development manager for Harvey Norman’s franchisee network, was appointed chief sales officer and Rebecca Blasina, daughter of “Gadget Guy” Peter, was brought in as head of corporate affairs.</p> <p> [By the time Rebecca Blasina was appointed, Hybrid TV had appointed and parted ways with three PR companies in 18 months. Blasina had been working at the third of these companies.]</p> <p> The swift growth and enviable price maintenance, however, was not unnoticed. Rivals began benchmarking their product offerings against TiVo. Jai Kemp, GM of Beyonwiz, said his PVRs, “out-featured TiVo by a long way”, citing their ability to record Foxtel. The pay TV provider also responded to the challenge, rolling out its best-in-market IQ2 decoder/recorder.</p> <p> Because Foxtel was intent on securing as many IQ2 subscribers as possible, it had no interest in working with Hybrid TV to make the TiVo compatible. As Channel Seven was the licensee selling the TiVo boxes, none of the other free to air networks had any interest in embracing TiVo.</p> <p> “One of the issues with the Australian TV industry is that everyone wants to ‘own’ the infrastructure,” said respected Fairfax Media television reporter Michael Idato. “No one seems willing to be open source and contribute to a collective good, they all want to own it to hurt the competition.</p> <p> Idato cited another Channel Seven owned initiative, Fango, to demonstrate his point. Because it is limited to only Channel Seven, it doesn’t have the same critical mass as network agnostic social media platforms.</p> <p> Despite these limitations and criticisms, over the course of 2010, Hybrid TV appeared at the forefront of technology. It signed content distribution agreements with leading studios, broadcasted 3D TV directly into homes ahead of its rivals and began trials on the then very new 4G spectrums. By the end of 2010, CASPA was offering films on the same day they were made available on DVD and Blu-ray.</p> <p> But while Hybrid TV was successfully transitioning into a content provider, it was still relying on TiVo device sales for the vast majority of its revenue. And sales had not been good.</p> <p> In November 2010, for the first time since its launch, Hybrid TV adjusted the price of a new TiVo set top box — down $200 to RRP $499.</p> <p> One month later, Hybrid TV started downsizing.</p> <p> “We have restructured the business,” Minicola admitted. “The industry has suffered with sales in the last four months, especially August and September [2010].”</p> <p> Although Minicola insisted Hybrid TV was not “running on a shoestring”, gadget site Gizmodo reported there were only five staff members remaining, while The Register said the customer call centre had been closed and only emails were now being accepted.</p> <p> One of those to depart was Rebecca Blasina, meaning Channel Seven itself took over public relations for Hybrid TV. Its first press release claimed the TiVo price reduction had worked, delivering the highest market share in TiVo’s history — 29 per cent — according to GfK Retail & Technology.</p> <p> The second press release, sent nine months later on 9 November 2011, was the last official communication between Channel Seven or Hybrid TV with the media. In a case of the circle completing, a new TiVo device was being released exclusively through Harvey Norman for RRP $699.</p> <p> This was the first TiVo press release not to include quotes from Robbee Minicola. She had quietly resigned to move back to her native United States. She currently holds a senior management position at Microsoft.</p> <p> The TiVo website is now a ghost town. The only products left on sale are accessories and Current.com.au could not find any retailer selling a TiVo set top box. Current.com.au understands that Hybrid TV is ceasing its after sale services, such as firmware upgrades, on existing TiVo boxes.</p> <p> Hybrid TV lists a PO Box in Pyrmont as its preferred contact method.</p> <p> That PO Box is number 777.</p> <p> TiVo's original TVC, aired on Channel Seven in the lead-up to the 2008 Beijing Olympics:</p> <p> </p> <p> Hybrid SmartStreet and TiVo being promoted on Sunrise on Channel Seven:</p> <p> </p> Mon, 22 Apr 2013 14:33:29 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/Catering-for-everybody-Pricing-and-availability-on-Samsungs-new-TV-range/GQQTOTISFN.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/Catering-for-everybody-Pricing-and-availability-on-Samsungs-new-TV-range/GQQTOTISFN.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> While <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Samsung-gets-Sneaky-at-launch-event-for-2013-TV-range-image-gallery/MVAYLRZTPV" target="_blank">Samsung’s home entertainment launch</a> in Sydney last week was dominated by talk of its new <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Bigger-smarter-Samsung-S9-Ultra-HD-4K-TV-is-only-40k/AQAITGWPEM" target="_blank">$40,000 Ultra High Definition S9 TV</a>, the brand is yet to confirm retail availability of the ultra premium flat panel. However, with only 20 to 30 stores across Australia set to be given access to display the TV on the shopfloor, most retailers will be showcasing the other new releases in Samsung’s line-up.</p> <p> Comprising of 11 LED TVs (not including the UHD model), two plasma TVs as well as one home theatre system, the focus of the Samsung home entertainment range is on larger screen sizes and the brand’s new Smart TV interface.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> According to Phil Newton, vice president of consumer electronics at Samsung Australia, the variety of products across Samsung’s range is about providing a solution for all consumers.</p> <p> “We’ve got to cater for everybody,” said Newton. “So from the guy that wants to spend $250 on a 32-inch TV for his bedroom right through to the guy that wants the $40,000 television. And if we don’t do that, we’re not covering our bases. And that’s who we are — we want to address those consumer needs.</p> <p> “Our 2013 Samsung Smart TV range spans affordable large-screen sets all the way to mind-blowing, high-design luxury TVs.”</p> <p> At the top of the range is the F8000 Series, which is available in 55, 60, 65 and 75-inch screen sizes, and is billed as offering the “brightest picture quality of any Samsung LED TV to date”. The televisions feature a bezel width of less than 6 millimetres, a “wave inspired arc stand” and support the new HEVC high-compression video codec, which offers double the compression rate of previous codecs for higher video quality, even when streaming over lower bandwidth.</p> <p> The Series 8 range is joined by new panels in the Series 6 and Series 7 ranges, ranging in size from 46 inches up to 75 inches.</p> <p> Also in the line-up are Samsung’s two new F8500 plasma panels, available in 60 and 65 inches, which deliver “the same brightness and eight times the black levels as previous Samsung LED TVs,” while also supporting the HEVC codec.</p> <p> The Smart features on each new TV vary across the range, but the line-up boasts Australian language interaction and gesture controls, programme recommendations, social media streaming and added PVR functionality on the Samsung Foxtel app for pausing, rewinding and fast forwarding playback.</p> <p> Finally, Samsung announced the launch of its flagship 7.1 channel Blu-ray home theatre system (HT-F9750W) — a 1,330-watt sound system that features “a vacuum tube pre-amplifier and Gallium Nitride power amplifier...that provides a very similar sound quality to that of very high end analogue power amps”.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="229" src="/image/Samsung_F8000 Lifestyle.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Samsung's F8000 Series 8 LED TV.</p> <p> Full product pricing and availability (provided by Samsung): -Samsung UHD TVŒ(S9) – RRP $40,000, availableŒfrom May through "select retail stores" -Samsung Series 8 Smart LED TV 75-inch (F8000) – RRP $9,999, available in July -Samsung Series 8 Smart LED TV 65-inch (UAF8000) – RRP $5,999, available in June -Samsung Series 8 Smart LED TV 60-inch (UAF8000) – RRP $4,999, available in June -Samsung Series 8 Smart LED TV 55-inch (UAF8000) – RRP $4,199, available in April -Samsung Series 7 Smart LED TV 60-inch (UA607100) – RRP $3,999, available in June -Samsung Series 7 Smart LED TV 55-inch (UA55F7100) – RRP $3,299, available in May -Samsung Series 7 LED TV 46-inch (UA467100) – RRP $2,399, available in May -Samsung Series 6 LED TV 75-inch (UA75F6400) – RRP $6,999, available in June -Samsung Series 6 LED TV 65-inch (UA65F6400) – RRP $3,999, available in June -Samsung Series 6 LED 60-inch (UA60F6400) – RRP $2,999, available in May -Samsung Series 6 LED 55-inch (UA55F6400) – RRP $2,349, available in April -Samsung Series 8 Plasma 64-inch (PS64F8500) – RRP $4,299, available in April -Samsung Series 8 Plasma 60-inch (PS60F8500) – RRP $3,399, available in April -Samsung 7.1 Channel Home Theatre System (HT-F9750W) – RRP $1,499, available in May</p> Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:02:10 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/DeLonghi-to-remain-focused-on-the-premium-market/VMHUPQNKBT.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/DeLonghi-to-remain-focused-on-the-premium-market/VMHUPQNKBT.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By James Wells in Sardinia, Italy</p> <p> De’Longhi claims it will fight the global downturn by focusing on premium products with features that justify higher prices that consumers will regard as an investment.</p> <p> In a presentation to the IFA Press Conference on Friday,ŒDe'Longhi's global group marketing director, Diamantis Economou, said the company will continue to concentrate on developing its brand in the premium end of the small domestic appliances market.</p> <p> “We have been driving the premium sector and clearly it can exist in this environment,” Economou said.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Economou pointed to products selling for over 1,000 euros such as the De’Longhi Primadonna espresso machines and the Kenwood Cooking Chef as products that have provided the company with a worthwhile return on investment in both sales and brand marketing.</p> <p> “Why are consumers going beyond their reach to purchase premium productsŒ– it fundamentally comes back to what you are selling,” he said.</p> <p> “It was a consumable, now the small domestic appliance category is an investment. When you are spending over 1000 euros, consumers are more critical and they don’t have the cash to burn.</p> <p> “They are critical and demanding as their access to information is greater, often consumers know more than the sales person – they know what the want and what they are buying.</p> <p> “Consumers can not afford to buy cheap – it nicely summarises why premium can excel and do well.”</p> <p> Commenting in a statement presented at the conference, De’Longhi chief marketing officer, Mark Welch, also reinforced the premium message.</p> <p> “Our strategy is to focus on premium products with clear reason for the consumer to trade up. This has created a sustainable business model which strengthens our leadership position and brings value growth to the market despite the tough economic environment.”</p> Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:49:30 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/OLED-yield-could-be-just-10---DisplaySearch/MVIBGJICZD.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/OLED-yield-could-be-just-10---DisplaySearch/MVIBGJICZD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By James Wells in Sardinia, Italy</p> <p> DisplaySearch has predicted that the mass production of OLED (organic light emitting diode) may still be a way off with claims that one out of 10 screens are usable.</p> <p> The director of TV research in Europe for DisplaySearch, Paul Gray, told the IFA Press Conference on Friday that manufacturing problems remain in OLED factories.</p> <p> “The factories are only getting one good panel out of every 10 panels at 55-inches. Production problems are making it very very tough,” he said.</p> <p> “There was a lot of hype about OLED last year and it will improve over time, but it will be painfully slow.”</p> <p> Gray claimed that in comparison to OLED, LCD was a fast moving target.</p> <p> “OLED also has to fight a mature product such as LCD which is going through incremental innovation. We believe OLED will get there eventually, but not yet for a long time for ordinary customers.”</p> <p> Gray estimates there will be only 50,000 units shipped this year growing to 300,000 units next year worldwide.</p> <p> “So it is small quantities and with that there is going to be a luxury goods positioning of this product. To use the slang it is the ‘Ferrari of the TV world’ and it will be sold accordingly through very select channels.”</p> <p> To hear more from Paul Gray, click on the video below...Œ</p> <p> </p> Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:44:48 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/Panasonic-executive-defends-plasma-position/UIPPUJQKFG.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/Panasonic-executive-defends-plasma-position/UIPPUJQKFG.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By James Wells in Sardinia, Italy</p> <p> A senior Panasonic executive has defended the company against the reports that it will be leaving the plasma business by blaming the rumour on other companies.</p> <p> Speaking at the IFA Press Conference in Sardinia on Saturday, the head of public relations for Panasonic Germany, Michael Langbehn, told Current.com.au that the report was not generated from within Panasonic and he confirmed that the company was committed to the product for the time being as he promoted the latest 55-inch Neo plasma to the world’s press at the global press event.</p> <p> “The rumour that we will stop our PDP productionˆ this has not come from our company,” Langbehn told Current..com.au.</p> <p> “We are very glad that we can offer the end consumer a very nice portfolio from PDP for these people who want better quality and of course for the more energy efficient user we have a very nice portfolio of LED LCD,” he said.</p> <p> To hear more from Michael Langbehn, click on the video belowˆ</p> <p> Œ</p> Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:38:17 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/DisplaySearch-predicts-plasma-could-die-out-by-2016/CKFUKOEHKE.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/22/article/DisplaySearch-predicts-plasma-could-die-out-by-2016/CKFUKOEHKE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By James Wells in Sardinia, Italy DisplaySearch director of TV research in Europe, Paul Gray, has added his opinion to the plasma debate by predicting that plasma could fall to less than 1 per cent of the overall flat panel television market within three years. In a presentation to the IFA Press Conference in Sardinia on Saturday, Gray showed a slide where the share of the plasma market in 2016 was almost non-existent. “We expect that plasma is going to continue to shrink. Actually plasma shipments have already started to go down,” Gray said.</p> <p> He claims that a decade ago when the major investment into plasma was made, it was unclear as to whether LCD would be capable of being manufactured in larger sizes over 50-inches. “Samsung and LG put their bets on both horses – LCD and plasma. Panasonic went with plasma and now the LCD industry has continued to increase its pace of innovation and LCD can now do sizes of anything up to 110 inches.” “Panasonic have always been the guardians of high end plasma and are now repositioning that product,” Gray said. He expects Panasonic will continue to protect the plasma heritage it has created in the near future by re-positioning the product to be targeted at AV-enthusiasts offering the best picture quality possible.</p> <p> </p> Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:30:54 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/19/article/Queensland-retail-association-collapse-linked-to-state-MP/UXILOQVBES.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/19/article/Queensland-retail-association-collapse-linked-to-state-MP/UXILOQVBES.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> The Queensland Retail Traders and Shopkeepers Association (QRTSA), a not-for-profit industrial group that advocates for independent retailers in Queensland, has applied to the Supreme Court of Queensland to wind up its business “on grounds of insolvency”.</p> <p> In a statement obtained by Current.com.au which was sent to member retailers on Wednesday, the QRTSA advised that lawyers acting on behalf of the organisation had applied to be wound up on Friday 12 April, and that “the remaining members of the voluntary QRTSA Interim Executive Committee...have resigned their positions effective 15 April 2013”.</p> <p> These departures follow the resignations of the other four members of the group’s Interim Committee in March of this year.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The news comes amid <a href="http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/lnp-spin-doctors-advised-scott-driscoll-to-hide-from-the-media-after-first-reports-over-business-activities/story-e6freon6-1226623845454" target="_blank">reports from Brisbane’s Courier Mail newspaper</a> that a Liberal National Party MP associated with the lobby group has been accused of failing to produce financial records relating to the QRTSA.</p> <p> The Courier Mail today reported that Queensland state MP, Scott Driscoll, was facing allegations that “he had failed to produce the books relating to $700,000 worth of transactions at the Queensland Retail Traders and Shopkeepers Association”.</p> <p> The newspaper also reported that Driscoll has denied having “operational involvement” with the QRTSA since becoming an MP.</p> <p> The notice sent to QRTSA members on Wednesday noted that the full wind up of the group was not yet finalised.</p> <p> “It is to be noted that the application for winding up the QRTSA is pending a final date to be set by the Supreme Court of Queensland, while unrelated matters before the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC) are finalised and as such the winding up Application is currently adjourned to the Registry of the Supreme Court of Queensland.</p> <p> “The QRTSA has not and will not continue to ‘trade’ post Friday, 12 April 2012 and until the winding up application is formally completed.”</p> <p> In other news, the National Retail Association has advised that it is in the process of contacting affected QRTSA members to offer “support”.</p> <p> “The NRA will honour the membership of small, independent members of the QRTSA who paid their member fees in 2013,” said NRA chief executive Trevor Evans. “The NRA will also offer heavily discounted support for any other former QRTSA members affected by the QRTSA’s demise.”</p> Fri, 19 Apr 2013 15:03:28 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/19/article/Samsung-promises-white-glove-service-with-Ultra-HD-rollout/RWKGNYELLV.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/19/article/Samsung-promises-white-glove-service-with-Ultra-HD-rollout/RWKGNYELLV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> After the launch of Samsung’s newest line-up of TV and AV products in Sydney on Wednesday — including the brands new ultra-premium Ultra High Definition TV with a $40,000 price tag — Samsung Australia’s director of AV, Brad Wright, spoke to Current.com.au about what the range would offer retailers.</p> <p> While Wright was unable to confirm the locations that would be stocking the Ultra HD S9 television, he said retailers across Australia would benefit from the “halo effect” of Samsung’s premium feature set.</p> <p> “[For retailers], there will obviously be a commercial interest in them selling the product and there’s a halo effect also,” he said. “You’ve got Samsung’s flagship product and the flagship product of the industry in your store and that’s going to attract people to come in and look at it, even if they’re not in the market for a $40,000 TV.</p> <p> “But you know what? They might pick up an F8000 model [Samsung’s top-of-the-line LED TV] while they’re in there or look at the new F8500 Plasma TV. You’ve got customers who can walk in and buy an entry model, a 32-inch TV, right up to a $40,000 model.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Regardless of what customers are in the market for, Wright said there were three key selling points that underpin the whole of the new TV line-up, and that both large and small retailers should communicate these to consumers.</p> <p> “The first thing is — regardless of screen size, series or product — Samsung’s got great picture quality. At the end of the day, retailers can comfortably and confidently talk to the consumer and say that Samsung picture quality is best-in-market. And that’s one of the key things that people purchasing big screens in particular say, everyone says picture quality is king.</p> <p> “The second thing is the range and the breadth of what we offer. So we’re not just bringing out a range of 200Hz or 800Hz TVs, there’s a lot there. There’s small screens, there’s big screens.</p> <p> “But I think the big thing that’s really exciting for me this year is that the Smart TV story. Right from the 5500 LED, which is an incredibly accessible product in terms of price point, [all the new products] have the Smart Hub.</p> <p> “The Smart Hub is a way to engage consumers, to say ‘Hey, connected TV gives you all this’. It’s not something that’s really hard to understand or that’s going to be difficult to sell. Retailers should bring the Smart Hub up and have that conversation with the customer.”</p> <p> But for those consumers that are going all out and purchasing the $40,000 S9 UHD TV, Wright said the customer experience — with a focus on delivering a “white glove” service — would be unparalleled.</p> <p> “The 85-inch S9 is a statement piece. It’s saying what Samsung is capable of and there are going to be people in the market that are prepared to pay for that, they want a statement product in their homes.</p> <p> “We offer a $40,000 bespoke, white glove program. We’ll contact you post sale, we’ll send someone in for a pre-installation inspection, we’ll get the area in your home that the TV needs to go, we’ll contact you to let you know when it’s been produced, when it’s on a ship, when it’s coming and we’ll come and put it in. And we’ll walk away and you’ve had the white glove experience, the best thing that this industry has seen.</p> <p> “It’s been a tough couple of years for retailers, and it’s time that we started taking a real positive, proactive approach to the market and saying people are prepared to spend on good technology.”</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Bigger-smarter-Samsung-S9-Ultra-HD-4K-TV-is-only-40k/AQAITGWPEM" target="_blank">Read Current.com.au's wrap up of Samsung's newŒTV and AV range here</a>, and <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Samsung-gets-Sneaky-at-launch-event-for-2013-TV-range-image-gallery/MVAYLRZTPV.html" target="_blank">check out the full image gallery here</a>.</p> Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:05:27 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/19/article/Uniden-stimulating-home-phone-market-with-mature-age-and-compact-units/EJLJOVZOQH.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/19/article/Uniden-stimulating-home-phone-market-with-mature-age-and-compact-units/EJLJOVZOQH.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Price erosion and the emergence of smartphones have greatly reduced the home phone market over the past decade. In an effort to stimulate this market, Uniden has two new pieces of cordless phone technology, according to senior national marketing executive Brad Hales.</p> <p> “We are very excited to have successful rolled out the Visual and Hearing Impaired (SSE) series. This is a new range with a new look and a host of new features.”</p> <p> The SSE series is being targeted at Australia’s burgeoning mature age market. Ideal for older Australians that want to stay within a button press of their closest contacts, the SSE series is compatible with an Emergency Alert SOS Pendant, which can be worn around the neck.</p> <p> “The Pendant is splashproof and in the event of an emergency, by the push of a button, can call for help to a number of pre-programmed phone numbers of people of your choice,” Hales said.</p> <p> “This will provide great peace of mind product for a number of older Australians and can potentially be a life saver.”</p> <p> Uniden’s second technological breakthrough is the Space Saver Cordless Phone (DECT2130+1). This cordless phone has a space saver base, so the handsets can sit away from the base. The base can be put away, making it ideal for apartments where space is a premium. This model has an integrated digital answering machine and comes in a piano white finish.</p> <p> Despite price erosion in the category, technological innovations continue to be developed. Hales said Uniden’s XDECT long range functionality has been the brand’s biggest driver of sales. Another popular addition to the feature set has been Bluetooth connectivity, so the home phone can be paired with a mobile phone for making and answering calls on either device.</p> <p> “Uniden is a brand that has the best sell through in the cordless phone category and the brand that offers the best profit opportunities for retailers,” said Hales. “It has been the number one brand for the last decade and if you want guaranteed sell through then Uniden is the only choice.</p> <p> “Retailers can sell more phones by up-selling customers to the higher end products, which have more add-on sales likes long range repeaters, headsets and additional handsets.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/SSE35 + Pendant_High Res.bmp" width="330" /></p> <p> Uniden's new SSE Series comes with an emergency response pendant.</p> <p> For more on the home phone market, turn to <a href="http://www.intermedia.com.au/print/news-item/appliance-retailer-magazine" target="_blank">Appliance Retailer </a><a href="http://www.intermedia.com.au/print/news-item/appliance-retailer-magazine" target="_blank">magazine's</a> dedicated feature in its April edition. Œ</p> Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:25:31 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/19/article/Electrolux-Ultracaptic-takes-cleaning-to-a-whole-new-hygienic-level/NDYNPIXJBB.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/19/article/Electrolux-Ultracaptic-takes-cleaning-to-a-whole-new-hygienic-level/NDYNPIXJBB.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> The bagless vacuum cleaner that makes dirt and dust disposal a truly fuss-free affair!</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <img alt="" src="/image/Electrolux.jpg" /></p> <p> Coping with dust clouds, re-vacuuming spilled dirt and handling grubby tangles of hair with bare hands are now things of the past. The new Electrolux Ultracaptic bagless vacuum cleaner now features an innovative “compact & go” dirt disposal system that makes the chore of post vacuuming clean-up a more enjoyable and fuss-free affair.</p> <p> Conventional bagless cleaners have always had one rather odd drawback - they aren’t always so bagless. When an ordinary dust container is shaken out, it creates clouds of dust that eventually settle right back into a mess on the floor. Ironically, most people cope with this by placing a bag around their bagless vacuum cleaner when they empty it. This is followed by the manual and tedious chore of pulling out and removing entwined hair and fibres with your bare hands. Œ Thanks to the Ultracaptic’s “Compact and Go” dirt disposal system the dirt, dust and contents are compressed into a neat form that can be ejected into the bin without any fuss. Compacting the dust also means the Ultracaptic can hold more dust and dirt, so more areas can be cleaned before emptying the vacuum. In addition to the new dust compactor system, the Ultracaptic has a host of other important features. Powerful cleaning Multicyclonic Technology – high dust separation Œ& no loss of suction Noise Reduction New Aeropro Floor Nozzle to reduce noise level while providing 5-Star dust pick-up performance (certified by SLG) No loss of Suction Easy maintenance, less clogged filters, hence ensuring constant performance Microdust Filter Captures the fine dust to protect motor Excellent Maneuverability Large soft wheels and ergonomic grip Œ Clean Exhaust Air HEPA 13 filter effectively retains common allergens and micron particles (5-Star performance certified by SLG) Cleaning isn’t just effective with this powerful bagless cleaner, it just got more hygienic as well. Œ Electrolux Ultracaptic in Steel Blue – RRP $699 Electrolux Ultracaptic in Watermelon Red – RRP $899 Electrolux Small Appliances are available at Australia’s finest electrical retailers and department stores. For details of stockists call 1300 365 305 or visit <a href="http://www.electrolux.com.au">www.electrolux.com.auŒ</a></p> Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:53:16 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/19/article/Twitter-launches-music-service-with-Rdio-and-Spotify-others-frozen-out/JZQFZSNJAT.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/19/article/Twitter-launches-music-service-with-Rdio-and-Spotify-others-frozen-out/JZQFZSNJAT.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Twitter this morning launched its foray into online music streaming — appropriately called ‘<a href="http://music.twitter.com">#music</a>’ — choosing to partner with leading players Rdio and Spotify instead of competing with the madding crowd in this congested marketplace.</p> <p> In addition to Rdio and Spotify, full service streaming is also offered by, Sony Unlimited, Samsung Music Hub, Mog (Telstra) and JB NOW (JB Hi-Fi); while Pandora provides online radio that can tailored to a user’s taste.</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: 0px" 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: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Unlike the dedicated players, Twitter #music isn’t so much about searching for song and albums for playback but rather listening to tracks that are being offered by Twitter in several charts. There’s Popular, for new and trending music; Emerging, for hidden or undiscovered talent; Suggested, which is supposedly based on artists you follow on Twitter; and #NowPlaying, which is a collection of tracks tagged in Tweets.</p> <p> In a charming piece of self-awareness, the Twitter charts go down to number 140.</p> <p> Subscribers to Rdio and Spotify can listen to full tracks, either through their web browser or a mobile app, while everyone else only can listen to a 30 second grab. <a href="http://blog.twitter.com/" target="_blank">Twitter said on its Blog</a> this morning that it “will continue to explore and add other music service providers”.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="428" src="/image/Twitter Music 001.png" width="300" /></p> <p> Everyone has access to a personalised playlist based on the artists they follow on Twitter.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="430" src="/image/Twitter Music 002.png" width="300" /></p> <p> To encourage both music listening andŒfollowing more celebrities, Twitter suggest artistsŒone does not currently follow. Grouplove's Never TrustŒA Love Song was my favourite album of that year it was released.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="430" src="/image/Twitter Music 003.png" width="300" /></p> <p> Popularity has never been anŒindicator of quality, best emphasised by Psy currently sitting atop Twitter's chart.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="429" src="/image/Twitter Music 004.png" width="300" /></p> <p> Discovering new music is a mantra preached by all music streaming services.ŒNot sure whether many Australians would consider The Cat Empire to be emerging, but that's some good exposure for the band in other regions. No Longer There was myŒseventh favourite song of theŒ2000s.</p> <p> Opinion/Analysis</p> <p> Being launch partners for Twitter #music is a huge advantage for Rdio and Spotify. In a congested market with little price flexibility, offering more services is the only way to increase value.</p> <p> For Telstra, it has unmetered data for mobile Mog listening, but that is only for Telstra customers. JB NOW, Sony and Samsung don't really offer any comprehensive value add that to make their service more attractive.</p> <p> Twitter is a hugely popular social network and it is particularly great for music fans, who can follow their favourite artists to find out what they ate for breakfast, which football they follow and when their next gig is - and that's just One Direction. Twitter fans will no doubt be trialling #music over the weekend and will soon grow tired of 30 second grabs.</p> <p> Rdio is offering a 14-day unlimited trial on its mobile app at the moment - I have been a fully fledged, card holding Rdio addict since early 2012, so it definitely worth taking up the two week trial to see if it meets your needs.</p> <p> "With the Twitter Music app for the web and iOS, you'll be able to see what tunes are trending, discover emerging talent, get recommendations based on your taste, and follow what people are listening to," said a RdioŒspokesperson.Œ"Everyone gets to hear a 30-second preview but when you connect with Rdio, you can play the full track. If users don't have an Rdio account, they can sign up for free and try the Rdio Unlimited mobile app for 14 days without pulling out the plastic."</p> <p> Spotify offers a free tier level that is ongoing - this is for desktop only and is ad supported - so fans can check out the Twitter #music experience while at their PC; as well as a free trial for its premium features.</p> <p> "We're really excited to be a part of Twitter music," said a Spotify Australia spokesperson. "As always, any new users to Spotify will be able to sign up to Spotify premium and enjoy a 30-day free trial. Existing premium subscribers simply need to click to play Spotify through Twitter #music."</p> Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:34:50 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Mothers-Day-Battlegrounds-Food-Processors/YJDKKGEQOQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Mothers-Day-Battlegrounds-Food-Processors/YJDKKGEQOQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> A staple of the Mother’s Day gift-giving season, the food processor is essential for any household gourmet looking to create succulent and nutritious meals. Here are four of the best available this Mother’s Day:</p> <p> Sunbeam Café Series Food Processor (LC9000) – RRP $399</p> <p> <img alt="" height="604" src="/image/LC9000_3281_2004x2672.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> An extra wide 14 centimetre chute, auto-pulse, on-board storage and a second bowl for processing convenience are the major features of this commercially inspired food processor.</p> <p> “We are really proud of the LC9000: it’s designed with Sunbeam’s signature quality engineering and like all of our Café Series products, it’s inspired by commercial kitchen appliances but given an affordable price tag,” said GM of marketing John Turnbull. “The appliance also exemplifies why Sunbeam is the number one manufacturer in the Australian food processor market.”</p> <p> Breville All in One (BSB530) – RRP $199</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/03 Breville BSB530_HR_HERO_A12_AUG.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> The All In One combines blending, mashing and chopping into a single box set. Attachments include a quad-blade chopper, an adjustable slicing disc, variable control masher and a 1.6-litre bowl.</p> <p> “The All in One Anti Suction Blending allows you to keep control of the mix with up to 80 per cent less suction than other stick mixers,” said a spokesperson. “The Adjustable Slicing Disc has 24 thickness settings so you can customise the thickness of your slices from 0.5mm thin up to 6.0mm thick.”</p> <p> Kenwood kMix Food Processor (FPX933) – RRP S399</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/FoodProcessors-FPX933-800x600-1.jpg" width="400" /></p> <p> Part of Kenwood’s retro-chic kMix range, this Food Processor includes coarse and fine grinding discs, a dough tool and a julienne disc. It is also available in wide range of amusingly named colours.</p> <p> “The bold blue kMix FPX933 food processor has a powerful 1,000-watt motor, metal body and uses the patented Multipro dual drive system and space-saving design,” said a spokesperson. “It comes with a family-sized 3-litre bowl with 1.5-litre working capacity, serrated main blade, stainless steel slicing and grating discs, and a variety of other attachments.”</p> <p> Bosch Food Processor (MCM4200AU) – RRP $249</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Bosch Food Processor MCM4200AU.jpg" width="420" /></p> <p> Self-described ‘comfort features’ of this food processor include an integrated accessory drawer, cable storage and rubber suction feet for extra stability.</p> <p> “The Bosch Food Processor boasts a multitude of options including blending, beating, juicing and cutting, said a spokesperson. “With an 800W motor and continuous cutting, the Food Processor is powerful and efficient. Stainless steel and plastic accessories complement a white finish with LED lighting and an integrated accessory drawer to keep bench tops tidy.”</p> Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:19:32 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Youre-The-Voice-with-Philips-new-dock-and-microphone/FKHYMCJYUX.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Youre-The-Voice-with-Philips-new-dock-and-microphone/FKHYMCJYUX.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Sensational stuff from Philips today! UnderCurrent is best pleased by the release of the Wireless Microphone and iPad Speaker Dock, which can be used with an iOS app to recreate the magic of The Voice in one’s own living room.</p> <p> The dock is available from Harvey Norman and Myer for RRP $199 and ‘The Voice: On Stage!’ app is free from the App Store — used in tandem, fans of the smash hit show can “sing the latest tracks, take a Blind Audition and go into battle rounds against their friends to see who has The Voice of Australia”, according to the media release.</p> <p> And just like episodes of The Voice, which seem to UnderCurrent to be on every night, the features don’t stop there:</p> <p> “The Voice: On Stage! also turns an iPad into a mixing board by allowing a user to record and post audio recordings online to let others rate performances. Results can be shared via Facebook, Twitter or email, and the fun will never end with songs available for download constantly updated in the large song library,” said a breathless though not Voice-less sings-person.</p> <p> Since launching last year, The Voice has been a juggernaut, regularly topping the ratings and producing a string of hits for the contestants. The current crop of hosts have 10 Australian #1 singles between them (Joel Madden is contributing zero) so if UnderCurrent can impress them, albeit in app mode, it will be an achievement unlocked.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/aea7000.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> UnderCurrent can't wait to bust out Born To Try on this hot gadget! Œ</p> Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:58:43 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Smeg-releases-worlds-first-16-minute-domestic-dishwasher/ZONIWQCTGL.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Smeg-releases-worlds-first-16-minute-domestic-dishwasher/ZONIWQCTGL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Exactly one year since its unveiling at the Eurocucina kitchen show in Milan, Smeg has released its revolutionary new ‘semi pro’, high speed dishwasher that is capable of completing a full wash in just 16 minutes using 12 litres of water.</p> <p> The Domestic Pro (DWAUP364X, from RRP $3,290) utilises a dual core motor system to race through its wash cycle. Importantly for a high end, modern appliance, it retains Smeg’s high standards of water and energy efficiency, and has been certified with a 5-star WELS water rating and a 4-star Energy rating.</p> <p> Using a 2,000-watt wash motor and two 1,800 elements to heat the water — twice the industry norm — the Domestic Pro is able to mirror the high speeds and standards of Smeg’s commercial grade dishwashers. Smeg has a strong heritage as a supplier to the medical industry, such as in hospitals and clinics; places that demand robust build qualities, fast operating and impeccable hygiene.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “The dishwasher’s numerous ‘Smart’ features establish a new benchmark in dishwasher technology, such as the exclusive FlexiDuo third basket that introduces an unrivalled degree of versatility to the appliance,” said national marketing manager Jimmy Kalotheos.</p> <p> “This upper basket, designed to take cutlery and cooking utensils, is split into two sections that can be separated and one slid under the other. “This frees space in the basket below to take very tall-stemmed glasses, vases and containers while still allowing the cutlery baskets to be fully loaded.</p> <p> “Likewise the appliance’s lower basket has fully adjustable inserts, two of which can be completely removed, to introduce extra space for large pans, platters and serving dishes.”</p> <p> The Domestic Pro has 15 place settings, one more than the industry mode, and is available in built-in and fully integrated models. We asked for a explanation of the difference between these two options - here is the excellent reply from a representative:</p> <p> "The built-in is the model designed to go in a cavity under the benchtop, but it has its own door. The fully integrated is also designed to go under a bench top but it has no door front – it is designed to be seamlessly incorporated into the cabinetry and invisible to the eye, as its door front is the same as existing cabinetry and there are no visible controls, these are on the top of the door."</p> <p> Read about where Smeg's dishwashers are manufactured: <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/19/article/Exclusive-insight-into-Smegs-Italian-dishwasher-factory/GHAUFDBBBP.html" target="_blank">Exclusive insight into Smeg's Italian dishwasher factory</a> Read about Smeg trumping Miele at the global unveiling of thisŒdishwasher: <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/18/article/Smeg-trumps-Miele-in-dishwasher-speed-war/AIKNKPCPAQ.html" target="_blank">Smeg trumps Miele in dishwasher speed warŒ</a></p> <p> <img alt="" height="400" src="/image/DWAFIP364.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Smeg's full integrated Domestic Pro dishwsher.</p> Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:53:45 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Samsung-gets-Sneaky-at-launch-event-for-2013-TV-range-image-gallery/MVAYLRZTPV.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/18/article/Samsung-gets-Sneaky-at-launch-event-for-2013-TV-range-image-gallery/MVAYLRZTPV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Images by Claire Reilly Commentary by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Read about the new S9 model here: <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Bigger-smarter-Samsung-S9-Ultra-HD-4K-TV-is-only-40k/AQAITGWPEM" target="_blank">Bigger, smarter Samsung S9 Ultra HD 4K TV is only $40k</a></p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/DSC01111.JPG" width="452" /></p> <p> Samsung completely albeit temporarily redesigned the event centre at The Star to launch its Smart TV platform.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="452" src="/image/DSC01114.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Samsung Electronics Australia VP - consumer electronics, Philip Newton, introducing the new products to dealers, the media and Macquarie University academics.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/DSC01132.JPG" width="452" /></p> <p> While the new Full HD LED models in the Samsung range are very engrossing...</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/DSC01140.JPG" width="452" /></p> <p> ...nothing comes close to matching Samsung's $40,000 Ultra HD model.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/DSC01149.JPG" width="582" /></p> <p> Samsung's wall of TVs showcase the diverse content available on its Smart Hub from various third party sources.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="452" src="/image/DSC01160.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Sneaky Sound System popped up on the night to belt out a few hits.</p> Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:59:58 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Bigger-smarter-Samsung-S9-Ultra-HD-4K-TV-is-only-40k/AQAITGWPEM.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Bigger-smarter-Samsung-S9-Ultra-HD-4K-TV-is-only-40k/AQAITGWPEM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Samsung’s new 2013 TV range, including its first Ultra HD LED panel, is being targeted at three major trends identified by the South Korean market leader.</p> <p> Also known as 4K, Ultra HD has a resolution of 3,820 x 2,160, making it four times as vivid as Full HD.</p> <p> Speaking to Current.com.au in advance of the company’s major home entertainment product showcase at The Star in Sydney, Samsung director – AV, Brad Wright, said the new TVs would be the benchmark for style, size and smarts.</p> <p> “There are three key trends we are seeing in TV that explain the changes Samsung has implemented for the 2013 range of Samsung Smart TVs,” Wright said.</p> <p> “First, people are demanding larger screen sizes. Just a few years ago, a ‘large screen’ TV might have been a 32-inch TV. These days, the 55-inch TV has become almost standard, accounting for more than 28 percent of the market spend.</p> <p> “Secondly, the TV has become an integral part of the living room. Gone are the times when the TV was hidden in a cupboard. These days, people see the TV as part of their design identity.</p> <p> “And thirdly, people are expecting more from their TVs: more content, a better picture, more connectivity. And it’s a fact that Smart TV is now emerging from being a niche category into the mainstream of the TV market.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The flagship model in Samsung’s new range is the S9, first unveiled at the 2013 International CES in Las Vegas. In a sign of how quickly the market moves, the veil was first lifted on this TV just 99 days ago. Furthermore, it was only seven months ago that <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/08/15/article/Aussie-TV-market-in-good-shape-claims-Samsung-at-launch-of-enormous-TV/FYUFKJFHXT" target="_blank">Samsung launched its ES9000 model</a>, a $9,499 TV that was “the very high end of the spectrum”, according to Wright at the time.</p> <p> That model has now been completely superseded by the S9 — an incredible television that comes equipped with its own furniture for optimal viewing.</p> <p> “Samsung’s S9 combines brilliant picture quality with a modern, minimalistic and timeless gallery design to offer a completely immersive, vivid viewing experience,” Wright said.</p> <p> By working with Macquarie University, Samsung believes it has perfected the art of listening to the Australian accent and understanding the local vernacular — a common problem for Siri and other voice recognition programs.</p> <p> “Consumers can ask the TV when the next must-see movie is about to start; ask it to make a recommendation about what TV show they should watch; find out what’s on starring their favourite actor or actress; and even get some great ideas on restaurants in their area,” explained Wright, who noted that the S9 can understand around 300 commands.</p> <p> Other Smart features of the 85-inch S9 include social media feeds, YouTube, Skype, web browsing, third party apps and integrated sports content.</p> <p> To make up for the lack of native Ultra HD content, the S9 also includes upscaling to convert compatible movies and programming to the much higher resolution.</p> <p> All of this adds up to a convincing, if at times complex, in-store narrative for retailers, Wright said.</p> <p> “Ultra High Definition is a statement piece of technology — it is not the same old thing — it is something else.</p> <p> “It is a change in format from the current 1080p environment. It’s a change that’s needed as the market demands bigger and bigger television screens.</p> <p> “The S9 is an innovative television which requires a non-traditional market approach to sell. As the market moves back to primary viewing applications like TV shows, movies and sport, a big screen experience is important to create the ultimate social scene with your friends and family.”</p> <p> The Samsung S9 is due in June for "around $40,000".</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/S9000_008_Right-Angle-30-Degree_Black_35847280.jpg" width="328" /></p> <p> Samsung S9 in its bespoke Gallery stand.</p> Wed, 17 Apr 2013 17:02:51 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/High-Aussie-dollar-wedging-Harvey-Norman---time-for-some-sympathy/URIUWYPZYV.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/High-Aussie-dollar-wedging-Harvey-Norman---time-for-some-sympathy/URIUWYPZYV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Opinion by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> One of the reasons so many classic music stars have been touring Australia this year — Paul Simon, Bruce Spingsteen, Guns ‘n Roses — is because our dollar has been so consistently high. An aging rocker can make a lot more money touring Australia than any cities closer to home.</p> <p> The phenomenal consistency of the dollar — at or around price parity with the US Dollar for more than two years — has been an incredible boon for some.</p> <p> Apple, for example, is making a motza selling iGadgets down under, reaping in billions of Australian dollars. The PC manufacturers love Australia for our high prices and high standard of living and we’ve quickly become the second most important region for nearly all European appliance suppliers.</p> <p> One company not doing so well out of the high Australian dollar is Harvey Norman. <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Harvey-Norman-sales-stabilise-despite-stubbornly-high-Australian-dollar/CJGTBXOBMU.html" target="_blank">In its quarterly sales result</a>, a company spokesperson said “the market appears to be stabilising despite the stubbornly high Australian dollar”.</p> <p> The high value of the Australian dollar is especially bad for Harvey Norman. The company owns subsidiaries in Croatia, Slovenia, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland (UK), meaning profits generated in those regions must be converted to Australian dollars when they are repatriated.</p> <p> Back on the first day of 2008, one Pound Sterling bought you AUD $2.27. You now only get $1.48. The Euro is a similar story: down from $1.66 to $1.27 over the same dates.</p> <p> At the same time Harvey Norman is losing money in foreign exchange, it is also losing money to foreign traders. The very high Australian dollar is making overseas-based online retailers incredibly attractive to savvy, price conscious consumers.</p> <p> Harvey Norman has the Canon EOS 7D for $1,398 on its website. That same model is $1,097 on CamerasDirect. Eastern European based online appliance stores are offering Miele appliances for half the Chartered Agency price, which Harvey Norman franchisees are unable to negotiate.</p> <p> Harvey Norman is wedged by this stubbornly high dollar, losing money both ways. If the dollar were to drop in value, its revenues could increase quickly and sharply. Perhaps instead of writing the company off as a has-been, the critics could offer a touch of sympathy, lest the company isn’t completely finished just yet.</p> Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:29:40 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Harvey-Norman-sales-stabilise-despite-stubbornly-high-Australian-dollar/CJGTBXOBMU.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Harvey-Norman-sales-stabilise-despite-stubbornly-high-Australian-dollar/CJGTBXOBMU.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Total sales at Harvey Norman’s Australian outlets stabilised during the third quarter of the 2013 financial year, increasing by 0.1 per cent, compared to the previous corresponding quarter.</p> <p> The period from 1 January to 31 March 2013 was Harvey Norman’s best of the financial year, after declines of 11.5 per cent and 5.8 per cent during the first two quarters. Like-for-like sales decreased by 4 per cent.</p> <p> “The Australian franchised sales data for the nine months ended 31 March 2013 indicated the following: even though technology categories continue to be challenged, the market appears to be stabilising despite the stubbornly high Australian dollar; [and] home appliances and bedding continue to perform strongly,” said a Harvey Norman spokesperson.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Globally, excluding Singapore, Harvey Norman sales totalled $1.28 billion during the quarter. Global like-for-like sales were up 2 per cent.</p> <p> Much of Harvey Norman’s international growth is due to its operations in Slovenia and Croatia, which increased 26.3 per cent in total sales during the quarter. Like-for-like sales, however, went the other way, decreasing by 22 per cent.</p> <p> The closing of Harvey Norman’s Northern Ireland (UK) AV and IT departments has resulted in a 24.2 per cent increase in its like-for-like sales, while total sales only increased 6.1 per cent. The Republic of Ireland suffered a 2.9 per cent dip in total sales.</p> <p> So far during this financial year, Harvey Norman has closed 11 ‘Harvey Norman’ stores and opened 6 ‘Harvey Norman’ stores and 1 ‘Domayne’ store.</p> Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:33:26 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Harvey-Norman-given-first-look-at-new-Klipsch-audio-range/KXUNWTRSMM.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Harvey-Norman-given-first-look-at-new-Klipsch-audio-range/KXUNWTRSMM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> High-end audio brand Klipsch is set to expand its range in the Australian market with representatives from the American brand launching a new line-up for retailers in Sydney last night.</p> <p> The range features a number of new in-ear headphones — including earbuds designed for sporting use — as well as noise-cancelling over-ear headphones and larger speaker systems. Key buyers and retailers from Harvey Norman last night got a first glimpse at the range, which the brand bills as delivering “perfect sound” in a stylish form factor.</p> <p> In Australia to launch the Klipsch line-up, Dave Westfall, regional vice president for Klipsch Asia Pacific, said the brand was driven by “the passion for live music”.</p> <p> “We call ourselves the keepers of the sound,” he said, adding that all Klipsch audio products were defined by three key cornerstones: they are “engineering driven”, they deliver “high performance sound” and they work to replicate the “live music experience”.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> A number of hero products will be arriving in retail stores in the coming months, including the portable Klipsch Music Center KMC 3, which offers 29 hours of music playback and the ability to charge a smartphone using battery power, as well as the larger-format Klipsch Music Center Stadium, an “audiophile-grade”, 2.1-channel music system that can be paired with a music device (such as a smartphone or iPad) using Apple AirPlay or Bluetooth wireless.</p> <p> The Klipsch stadium is due to arrive in Australia in August, while the KMC 3 will be available in May with the retail price targeted at RRP $499. The range is currently due to be available in Harvey Norman and specialty audio stores, and will be distributed by Powermove Distribution.</p> <p> Speaking about the Klipsch line-up at last night’s launch, Powermove’s audio sales and product manager, Shelden Walker, said the Australian distribution strategy for the brand was to showcase its quality performance.</p> <p> “The strategy behind it is a strategy that has been strong internationally,” said Walker. “Klipsch are renowned for being popular in cinemas around the world, and they’re actually the largest speaker manufacturer of loudspeakers in the world. A lot of the Australian public doesn’t realise that.</p> <p> “We want to bring that power and that range to the Australian market. The Klipsch brand has huge heritage in the US and huge power worldwide. As the distributor in the Australian market, it is our job to then deliver that to the consumer.</p> <p> “It’s about quality, too. We’re not delivering cheap and cheerful products to the market, we’re delivering quality products that have performance.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="239" src="/image/Klipsch KMC3 Speakers.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> The Klipsch Music Center KMC 3.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="209" src="/image/Klipsch_Stadium Speakers.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> The Klipsch Music Center Stadium.</p> Wed, 17 Apr 2013 12:26:02 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Hisense-launching-two-Ultra-HD-models-rolling-out-JB-Hi-Fi-displays/ZOXIGMSEZK.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Hisense-launching-two-Ultra-HD-models-rolling-out-JB-Hi-Fi-displays/ZOXIGMSEZK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Hisense Australia’s first range of Ultra HD TVs will comprise an enormous 84-inch model (XT900) and a large 65-inch panel (XT880), both of which will be sold through limited national distribution, starting in June 2013.</p> <p> A key feature of Hisense’s first batch of 3,840 x 2,160 LED LCD panels will be its Smart features. Although the company is still finalising its Google TV range, these two models will include internet connectivity, apps and widgets, web browsing, social networking and screen mirroring functionality, as marketing manager Andre Iannuzzi explained.</p> <p> “Consumers are looking for more than a monitor in their TVs — they want a rich product experience and a more complex content offering to fulfil fast changing multiscreen consumer behaviour,” he said. “This is the reason Hisense is introducing Mobile High Definition Link (MHL) across all our 2013 TV products.</p> <p> “MHL allows consumers to screen share their secondary device with Hisense TVs. Seventy-seven per cent of Australian TV viewers watch TV with another device: 48 per cent with a smartphone, 31 per cent with a PC or Mac.</p> <p> “Hisense is meeting current consumer trends and offering great features at better prices.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> To promote this new range, Hisense is rolling out store-in-store concepts nationwide in partnership with JB Hi-Fi. The first two of 20 planned displays are at JB’s stores in Chadstone (Victoria) and Moore Park (New South Wales).</p> <p> Iannuzzi said the brilliance of Ultra HD TV displays, regardless of the brand, is something that needs to be shown off to consumers in store.</p> <p> “Ultra HD technology enables stunningly realistic picture quality and beautifully natural motion with incredible detail, offering one of the most immersive entertainment experiences available in 2D or 3D today,” he said.</p> <p> “In addition to live TV, the XT880 and XT900 will support a variety of streamed content, web browsing and search, social networking, games and apps through intuitive on-screen navigation.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Hisense XT880 side-01 (Large).JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Hisense's soon-to-be-released 65-inch Ultra HD TV (XT880).</p> Wed, 17 Apr 2013 09:59:03 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Electrolux-shedding-28-factory-jobs-through-natural-attrition/TYZKKPJEZX.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/17/article/Electrolux-shedding-28-factory-jobs-through-natural-attrition/TYZKKPJEZX.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> In addition to <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/24-staff-to-go-in-Electrolux-small-and-major-appliances-business-restructure/MPTEMHRWYL.html" target="_blank">24 staff being made redundant</a> from the closure of Electrolux's separate floorcare and small appliances divisions, the company is also shedding 28 factory workers by "natural attrition", according to <a href="http://www.centralwesterndaily.com.au/story/1428293/electrolux-to-lose-28-jobs/?cs=103" target="_blank">a story in Fairfax regional journal Central Western Daily</a>.</p> <p> As factory workers leave the plant, by resignation, retirement or dismissal, Electrolux will not replace them. According to sources quoted by the Central Western Daily, the company is not offering redundancies.</p> <p> “They’re not offering redundancies and they said they’re not going to tap anyone on the shoulder,” said an unnamed source. “But there is stuff they’re not telling us.</p> <p> “I’m worried about the state of the factory. I have a son and a family to support and they keep bringing out bad news.”</p> <p> Electrolux's external spokesperson was quoted in this article saying that this company policy for Electrolux and that natural attrition to reduce the workforce happen "in Electrolux factories around the world".</p> Wed, 17 Apr 2013 07:37:14 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/Canon-QA-on-its-new-13-million-marketing-campaign/TAPPBDCOGL.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/Canon-QA-on-its-new-13-million-marketing-campaign/TAPPBDCOGL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Compiled by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Canon Australia has launched a new $13 million marketing campaign for its digital imaging solutions, built around the new tagline "No One Sees It Like You". We fired a few questions off to Canon to find out more about this campaign. We asked for no buzzwords in the response but we'll publish them anyway (answers provided by Canon director - consumer imaging, Jason McLean):</p> <p> Is this the end of <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2010/11/09/article/New-Canon-slogan-part-of-enormous-2011-marketing-spend/RZWDDORWTP.html" target="_blank">‘Inspires to achieve more’</a>?</p> <p> “No One Sees It Like You” is our new external brand message and will be used in all points of consumer communication as well as areas such as production printing. Through this, Canon shows how people can do more to value and express their unique perspectives through our end-to-end imaging suite and related tools and experiences.</p> <p> How important are major marketing programs to attracting consumers to purchase cameras from authorised retailers?</p> <p> All of our campaigns and experiences aim to inspire and help consumers get more from their imaging, and together with our retail partnerships these have proven very successful in driving local growth. Like other elements of our market support activity, our programs help focus attention on Canon locally and create opportunities for retailers to add value to the consumer.</p> <p> In addition to marketing what other initiatives does Canon have to help retailers sell high value imaging products?</p> <p> We have a close relationship with our partners and work with them collaboratively to understand and cater to consumer needs to learn, create, grow and connect. This includes use of Canon content for their own programs, ability to sell Canon services and the opportunity to use our platforms to promote offers. Our focus is to add value to the local consumer experience and we’re active in discussions with retail partners looking to do this in their stores.</p> <p> Does Canon still that enough is being done to educate consumers on the broad range of features in DSLR cameras?</p> <p> The untapped source of demand and growth in the category is in helping consumers take full advantage of their imaging experience. Quality image capture is the critical starting point for doing more with images later on, but many consumers do not understand the inherent quality advantage of DSLR over other options. The broader opportunity, though, is in understanding and catering to the complete imaging experience, not just one category in isolation.</p> <p> Whose job is it to educate consumers – the supplier? The retailer? The consumer themselves? </p> <p> The key to success for the our industry is to maximise the imaging experience for consumers. It’s a job for all of us. The opportunity is clear, but the question is whether people are focussed on it and playing their part.</p> <p> Learn more about the new campaign at <a href="http://www.canon.com.au/Personal?s_kwcid=TC|11680|no%20one%20sees%20it%20like%20you||S|b|26958832505" target="_blank">this Canon Australia microsite</a>.</p> Tue, 16 Apr 2013 14:56:05 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/24-staff-to-go-in-Electrolux-small-and-major-appliances-business-restructure/MPTEMHRWYL.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/24-staff-to-go-in-Electrolux-small-and-major-appliances-business-restructure/MPTEMHRWYL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> The Australian subsidiaries of Electrolux are set to undergo a restructure that will see major changes in personnel, including the departure of Electrolux Small Appliances managing director John Mahar, and a total of 24 staff redundancies.</p> <p> As part of the restructure, elements of the Electrolux Small Appliances Australia business will be joined with Electrolux Home Products, including operations such as account management, field sales and customer service. Along with the 24 staff redundancies, four current vacant positions at Electrolux Small Appliances will go unfilled (resulting in a total loss of 28 positions) while the Electrolux Small Appliances head office in Melbourne will be closed.</p> <p> The restructuring process is set to begin immediately and conclude in the fourth quarter of calendar year 2013, according to the company, with the new-look small appliances business set to comprise a total of 31 positions.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; widows: 2; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; widows: 2; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Speaking about the redundancies involved with the restructure, Electrolux Small Appliances president for Asia Pacific, Claus Andersen, said the loss of staff was regrettable.</p> <p> “However, Electrolux believes it necessary in order to become more efficient and enable investments to increase sales and market shares,” he said.</p> <p> “In Australia, we see clear synergies in both the ‘front end’ to increase account coverage and in the ‘back end’ in accounting, finance, IT and customer care.”</p> <p> “The new Small Appliances operations will be better equipped to serve customers in a coordinated way and increase the number of customers receiving direct sales support.</p> <p> “Working as One Electrolux within the new business model will allow Small Appliances to reduce costs and gain significant efficiencies by sharing resources and processes with the Australian operations of Electrolux Major Appliances.” (Andersen’s caps on ‘One Electrolux’).</p> <p> Claus Anderson thanked John Mahar and his staff “for their contributions, loyalty and commitment to Electrolux over many years”.</p> <p> The company has also confirmed that “all employees who have been made redundant with the Melbourne office closure will receive severance packages in line with company policy and statutory liabilities [and] they will also be offered outplacement support”.</p> <p> Along with the loss of staff, the Electrolux restructure will also result in new appointments, with former national sales manager for Electrolux Major Appliances in Australia, Derek Haley, taking on the role of general manager, Small Appliances Australia.</p> <p> According to a statement from Electrolux, certain elements of the small and major appliances businesses will be combined.</p> <p> “The new business model involves Small Appliances sharing with the Australian operations of Major Appliances key account management and field sales, accounting, finance, IT and customer care functions. To assist this, head office of the new Small Appliances operations will move into the existing Sydney head office premises occupied by Major Appliances.</p> <p> “Sales, Finance, Technical Support and Call Centre functions for Small Appliances will be performed by dedicated resources in the current Major Appliances teams under a service level agreement. Service and operations will remain in Clayton, Victoria but report into Major Appliances.</p> <p> “Marketing and product functions for Australia and New Zealand will be retained within the Small Appliances business. New Zealand Sales and Operations are unaffected.”</p> Tue, 16 Apr 2013 14:57:05 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/Sony-Kiosks-are-for-consumer-experience-not-for-price-competition/UPGXTJOXOE.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/Sony-Kiosks-are-for-consumer-experience-not-for-price-competition/UPGXTJOXOE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Following <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/12/article/First-new-Sony-kiosk-opens-tomorrow-with-a-focus-on-PCs-imaging-and-NFC/MJRJJHGEHE.html" target="_blank">last Saturday’s official opening of the Sony kiosk</a> at Westfield Parramatta in Sydney’s western suburbs, Sony has spoken about the brand’s new offering and the point of difference they’re hoping to bring to shopping centres.</p> <p> Speaking to Current.com.au today, Sony Australia’s general manager of consumer sales, Jeremy Senior, said the new kiosk was designed to offer consumers a hands-on shopping experience, with the store format able to showcase products in a different way to traditional retailers.</p> <p> “Kiosks provide consumers with the opportunity to get hands on with our product in a high traffic area. It also enables us to display product categories next to each other, which isn’t always possible in our retail partners, who may or may not range all of our product line-up or may have store formats that don’t allow us to put all of our mobile phones next to our PCs or TVs.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Sony claims to be in for the long haul with the new-look kiosk format — first rolled out in Chatswood in Northern Sydney 18 months ago — with Senior saying that the brand was not building kiosks in places such as Parramatta to be there for just “three to six months”.</p> <p> Senior also noted that the kiosks allow Sony to sell a premium product and brand message to consumers in an experiential way.</p> <p> “Our macro strategy is that Sony wants to talk quality and connectivity,” he said. “We believe that TV models such as 4K help us sell quality, and we believe that [our 4K TV] is the best TV proposition on the market today. The connectivity driven through NFC is also something that we’re really keen to communicate to consumers...for that experiential component.”</p> <p> While Senior conceded that Sony’s kiosks “do also transact”, he argued that it was more about providing consumers with education about Sony products and a hands-on experience, rather than competing with retailers on price. For his part, Senior said he was happy for consumers to trial Sony products at a kiosk and then buy them in a traditional retail store.</p> <p> “Price isn’t our key messaging,” he said. “We know from the experience that we’ve had in Chatswood that consumers are engaging with our kiosks, understanding the products and buying them elsewhere, and we’re happy for that to happen.”</p> Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:22:26 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/Rob-a-dub-dub-ES-Tradings-novel-approach-to-consumer-education/PHPKDJULAW.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/Rob-a-dub-dub-ES-Tradings-novel-approach-to-consumer-education/PHPKDJULAW.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent must commend E&S Trading for really going the extra mile to make its sales pitch this week.</p> <p> Rob Sinclair, one of the Sinclair family members that runs E&S Trading down in Victoria, <a href="http://blog.estrading.com.au/bid/59294/How-to-Choose-a-Freestanding-Bath" target="_blank">popped up on the retailer’s website this week</a> offering advice on how to choose a freestanding bath when in store. The video is one of a <a href="http://www.estrading.com.au/space-saving-bathroom-solutions-hatria-corner-basin/w1/i1120002/" target="_blank">number of similar tutorials</a> available to view on the E&S site, with others offering info on pyrolytic ovens, washing machines, rangehoods and refrigerators.</p> <p> Being the wonderful salesman that he is, Mr Sinclair opted to jump into the bathtubs on show, waxing lyrical about back support, arm comfort and the potential for a plus one to fit into the tub with him.</p> <p> UnderCurrent wonders whether E&S Trading’s floor stock is about to be covered in footprints? Let’s just hope that they don’t provide the same ‘try before you buy’ approach for all their bathroom products.</p> <p> On a serious note, UnderCurrent wants to commend E&S Trading for taking a proactive approach in educating consumers and offering something unique on their website.</p> <p> </p> Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:57:56 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/15/article/Know-your-steam-systems-how-to-trade-up-on-value-and-features/MFRUWUIMEE.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/15/article/Know-your-steam-systems-how-to-trade-up-on-value-and-features/MFRUWUIMEE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> With the rise of the steam system category, retailers have been given a great opportunity to up-sell consumers from a humble iron to a better-featured and higher-priced product, helping to build a stronger bottom line in the small appliances section of the store.</p> <p> But as with any new technology, the benefits of a steam system need to be conveyed to consumers in order to justify the price premium. And as with many other products on the retail floor, not all steam systems are built the same.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> According to Sunbeam’s product marketing manager for garment care, Sarah Francis, these subtle differences often result in different selling prices and different results for consumers when they take the product home. As such, qualifying the customer on the differences between products is vital.</p> <p> “Firstly it’s important to recognise the difference between a steam station and a steam generator,” said Francis. “A steam generator has a separate water tank (up to 3 times larger than a traditional iron) and a boiler unit that generates pressurised steam and pumps it through the iron onto the heated soleplate.Œ This means the steam is much more powerful and penetrates garments much easier reducing your ironing time by half.</p> <p> “A steam station also has a large and separate water tank but it operates the same way as a traditional iron — it uses the soleplate to turn the water into steam — therefore it can generate more steam from the larger water tank but the steam is not pressurised so it is not as powerful or effective as a steam generator.</p> <p> “The key to trading customers up from traditional irons or steam stations to steam generators is educating them about the benefits of a steam generator. Knowledge really is key to selling these products.”</p> <p> With a higher average selling price (ASP), steam systems — the general name used to refer to both the higher-featured steam generators and the more entry-level steam stations — offer a real opportunity for retailers. But Francis warned that more needed to be done to maintain ASPs.</p> <p> “In order to drive volume in this category retailers and manufacturers are being very aggressive with their pricing – consumers now expect discounts and only buy at this time,” she said. “This is eroding the ASP of the market.Œ</p> <p> “The industry should have spent time educating consumers about the benefits of steam generators rather than opting for the easy price route as this has significantly reduced the value of the segment.”</p> <p> To learn more about the big trends and issues affecting the garment care category as well as the newest products available, turn to the April issue of <a href="http://www.intermedia.com.au/print/news-item/appliance-retailer-magazine" target="_blank">Appliance Retailer magazine</a>.</p> Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:39:14 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/15/article/Nespresso-offers-limited-edition-trips-to-Trieste-and-Napoli/WZFEBXFMFR.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/15/article/Nespresso-offers-limited-edition-trips-to-Trieste-and-Napoli/WZFEBXFMFR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Continental coffee fans take note: Nespresso has introduced two limited edition ‘Grand Cru’ coffees and one permanent new flavour for the enjoyment of Club Members on their De’Longhi benchtop or Miele integrated machines.</p> <p> The two new limited edition flavours are Trieste (green) and Napoli (red).</p> <p> Much like the Napoli football team turns its style up to 11, the Napoli blend has an intensity rating eclipsing the 10-point chart Nespresso traditionally uses. Napoli is best served as a Ristretto.</p> <p> Trieste is not as strong as Napoli, only scoring a 9 (which is still very strong), and is also best enjoyed as a Ristretto.</p> <p> Those who like drinking a full mug of coffee will enjoy the new permanent addition to the range: Linizio Lungo (orange). This flavour is best enjoyed as a lungo and carries a 4 score for intensity.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/MY COFFEE TOUR.jpg" width="516" /></p> <p> Enjoy a ristretto in the spirit of Italy before Nespresso takes Trieste and Napoli away from us.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/LINIZIO LUNGOS_SLEEVE.jpg" width="522" /></p> <p> Linizio Lungo: here for a good time and a lungo one...</p> <p> Œ</p> Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:40:22 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/15/article/The-Good-Guys-sponsoring-search-for-best-Food--Wellbeing-blog/PWOVYZPLXO.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/15/article/The-Good-Guys-sponsoring-search-for-best-Food--Wellbeing-blog/PWOVYZPLXO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> The Good Guys is currently sponsoring the Kidspot Voices of 2013 competition to find Australia’s top bloggers. These awards cover Food & Wellbeing, Personal & Parenting, Creative & Home, and Beauty & Style.</p> <p> In an effort to appeal to the blogging classes, The Good Guys is specifically sponsoring the Food & Wellbeing category, according to Kidspot Village Voices editor ‘Maxabella’.</p> <p> “Our Food & Wellbeing sponsor, The Good Guys, will be inviting 5 bloggers from the Food & Wellbeing category to participate in their sponsors’ challenges,” wrote Maxabella. “Bloggers will be sent three appliances and asked to write three posts featuring those appliances — and yes, they get to keep the goods!</p> <p> “The winner will receive an amazing $30,000 kitchen makeover including their choice of cabinetry and kitchen appliances from The Good Guys.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In addition to securing blog coverage in exchange for free appliances, The Good Guys is also promoting its own blog through advertising on the Awards’ website. <a href="http://www.thegoodblog.com.au/" target="_blank">The Good Blog</a> currently includes stories on Mother’s Day, Panasonic washing machines and Jamie Oliver.</p> <p> Kidspot has already revealed the <a href="http://blogs.kidspot.com.au/villagevoices/voices/voices-of-2013/" target="_blank">100 finalists for this competition</a>: 99 of them are women and one of them is Rohan Anderson. Œ</p> Mon, 15 Apr 2013 13:26:37 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/15/article/Fisher--Paykel-brings-a-Spanish-touch-to-Harvey-Norman-Commercial-showroom/ETVNWSPBJN.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/15/article/Fisher--Paykel-brings-a-Spanish-touch-to-Harvey-Norman-Commercial-showroom/ETVNWSPBJN.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Fisher & Paykel has tried its hand at Spanish cuisine in an event for Harvey Norman, designed to showcase its appliance range for the builders and specifiers market, including its CoolDrawer, DishDrawer and Companion Range of products.</p> <p> The Harvey Norman Commercial Architects and Designers evening, for which Fisher & Paykel was a major sponsor, brought together builders, developers, kitchen designers and manufacturers in Harvey Norman’s trade-only showroom in Taren Point, in Sydney’s southern suburbs.</p> <p> The showroom features a functional Fisher & Paykel cooking display to show off the appliances to prospective commercial clients. At the event, the display was used by chef Brett Deverall from the Sydney Cooking School (itself a partner of Fisher & Paykel) to cook Spanish food for 150 guests.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Speaking about the showroom event, national commercial sales manager for Fisher & Paykel Robert Jaworski said it was a great opportunity to show off the F&P brand and product range to the design and trade community.</p> <p> “Fisher & Paykel is serious about cooking,” said Jaworski. “We have a working kitchen in the showroom so members of the trade and design community can get a real feel for our extensive range of kitchen appliances.</p> <p> “The best way to showcase our products is to actually cook and wash-up with them, because people can experience what it would be like to entertain their friends and family with Fisher & Paykel appliances.”</p> <p> According to Jaworkski, the event “was a great way for us to relate to our customers and business partners with gourmet food and wine in a relaxed and fun environment.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="214" src="/image/F&P Group Shot.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Fisher & Paykel shows off its cooking credentials. From left to right: Chad Ridley (Fisher & Payel), Steve Kelada (Fisher & Paykel), Brett Deverall (Sydney Cooking School), Tustra (Sydney Cooking School), Morenna Burn (Sydney Cooking School) and Robert Jaworski (Fisher & Paykel).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="352" src="/image/F&P Giant Paella.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Tustra cooks up a modest portion of Spanish paella.</p> Mon, 15 Apr 2013 12:25:52 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/15/article/ACCC-recalls-faulty-power-adaptors-for-Aldi-baby-monitor/SJGHNBQIUB.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/15/article/ACCC-recalls-faulty-power-adaptors-for-Aldi-baby-monitor/SJGHNBQIUB.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> The ACCC has issued a recall for power adaptors for a baby monitor sold exclusively through Aldi, due to the risk of electric shock.</p> <p> The two power adaptors sold with the Cocoon Baby Monitor (Baby Monitor item number BM40010, Adaptor model number BX-0500500, two adaptors per box) were recalled because “the power adaptor may pull apart when the customer removes it from a socket outlet, exposing live wires,” according to a release from the ACCC.</p> <p> “If the wires are touched while the unit is plugged in to an outlet there is a risk of electric shock."</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The Adaptors and Baby Monitor were distributed by Winplus Australasia and were sold at Aldi stores in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania and Victoria from 7 November 2012 to 27 March 2013.</p> <p> Although consumers may still use the baby monitors with non-rechargeable batteries, customers are advised to cease using the adaptors and contact Winplus Australasia for replacement power adaptors.</p> <p> Further information is available through Winplus Australasia Pty Ltd on 1300 663 907 from 9.00am to 6.00pm, Monday to Friday (within Australia), on +613 8727 7600 (from outside Australia) or via email at customercare@winplus.com.au.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="239" src="/image/Cocoon Baby Monitor.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> The packaging for the Cocoon baby monitor, sold through Aldi.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="317" src="/image/Cocoon Power Adaptor.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> The power adaptors can be identifed by the model number displayed above the power cord.</p> Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:34:39 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/12/article/Samsung-mixing-sport-and-culture-with-Opera-House-sponsorship/SIRMUZUVWF.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/12/article/Samsung-mixing-sport-and-culture-with-Opera-House-sponsorship/SIRMUZUVWF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Samsung Electronics has a strong global heritage in sports marketing, having originally sponsored the Sydney Roosters and the Essendon Bombers, are currently backing the Australian Rugby Union, swimmer James Magnussen, paralympian Ahmed Kelly and, globally, the Olympic movement.</p> <p> In a change of pace from this fast-paced world, and a change of voice from the shouting and cheering, the local subsidiary of the Korean powerhouse has signed a 3-year deal with the Sydney Opera House.</p> <p> Australia’s most iconic building and the most outstanding piece of the architecture of the 20th Century, the Opera House is also closely associated with ‘major partners’ Etihad Airways and Google. Samsung is presumably more involved, at least financially, than these companies, having been given the sobriquet ‘principal partner’.</p> <p> The Opera House has been actively looking to modernise over the past decade, shedding any vestige of stuffiness associated with high culture for more broad and youth-centred events. The Festival of Dangerous Ideas, held at the Benelong Point venue since 2009, has been a huge success; while plays starring Michael Cera and Kieran Culkin have also been produced.</p> <p> “It is our mission to welcome, engage and inspire people through the quality, breadth and ambition of what we offer,” said Opera House CEO Louise Herron in a statement. “I am thrilled that on the eve of our 40th anniversary in October, Samsung, a leading international brand which shares our focus on creativity, excellence and innovation, has partnered with us to enhance people’s experiences of the Opera House and to help us cater to new generations of visitors through new generations of technology.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> While the partnership helps to modernise the Opera House, it serves the inverse purpose for Samsung. Having already captured the youth and young adult market with its range of Galaxy smartphones and feature-packed home appliances, the company can now market directly to the extremely wealthy culture niche that frequents the Opera House.</p> <p> In a statement, Samsung marketing director Arno Lenior said the sponsorship was about reaching all Australians, regardless of whether they attend the Opera House, or even reside in Sydney.</p> <p> “As a global leader in technology and innovation, Samsung’s vision is to facilitate discovery for all Australians through our products and content,” Lenior said. “Our partnership with the Sydney Opera House literally brings this vision to life and forms the heart of our relationship. The potential audience for all the Opera House’s incredible work is every Australian in the country.”</p> <p> To generate immediate publicity for this partnership, Samsung is holding its marquee launch of 2013, for the Galaxy S4 smartphone, at the Opera House on 23 April 2013. <a href="http://operahouse.samsungsydney.com.au/" target="_blank">The public is being invited to suggest images</a> depicting Australia in its unique beauty, either geographically or culturally, with the best to be displayed on the Opera House Sails the night of the launch.</p> <p> ---</p> <p> UnderCurrent would like to see Samsung kick off this partnership with a performance of this musical masterpiece:</p> <p> </p> Fri, 12 Apr 2013 13:42:48 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/12/article/First-new-Sony-kiosk-opens-tomorrow-with-a-focus-on-PCs-imaging-and-NFC/MJRJJHGEHE.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/12/article/First-new-Sony-kiosk-opens-tomorrow-with-a-focus-on-PCs-imaging-and-NFC/MJRJJHGEHE.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Sony is set to open its first in-mall kiosk in Sydney tomorrow after shuttering its New South Wales Sony Centres, giving consumers and competing electrical retailers an idea of how its direct-to-consumer concept stores will look heading into the future.</p> <p> Sony confirmed in February this year that it would be <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/02/07/article/Sony-Centres-to-be-replaced-by-kiosks-in-NSW/AYIKKKUNLT.html" target="_blank">closing its remaining Sony Centres and replacing them with branded kiosks</a>, modelled off the kiosk that is currently operating in the northern-Sydney suburb of Chatswood. The Sony Centres in World Square and Drummoyne, in central Sydney were subsequently closed, with <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/02/12/article/Sony-Centres-prepare-for-store-closures-with-liquidation-sale/UMTTDFFYUC" target="_blank">liquidation sales held to clear stock</a>.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The kiosk in Westfield Parramatta in Sydney’s western suburbs is now fully established, with different experience stations set up for consumers to get “hands-on with Sony’s newest and most innovative products” according to the brand.</p> <p> Speaking about the new kiosk, located on Level 3 of the shopping centre near a number of apparel retailers and the Myer department store, was Jeremy Senior, general manager of sales for Sony Australia.</p> <p> “Sony Kiosks are a key part of our retail strategy,” said Senior. “Designed to deliver an engaging Sony brand experience, the Parramatta Westfield Kiosk will focus on educating consumers about our latest range of Sony products and the technological innovations that can enhance their daily lives.”</p> <p> The kiosk has features “hero products across all categories”, with a focus on smartphones, PCs and digital imaging products. There are also flat panel TVs on display, as well as headphones and audio products, and the kiosk offers an opportunity to try out the ‘One Touch’ connectivity features of NFC (near field communications) devices.</p> <p> Despite proximity to competing electrical and technology retailers in the centre who also sell Sony products — including JB Hi-Fi and Dick Smith — Senior said the kiosk would have a positive “halo effect” for the brand’s retail channel partners.</p> <p> “By providing an accessible and engaging environment in a high-traffic location, we expect shoppers to become more educated about Sony’s unique technology and lifestyle solutions,” said Senior. “This can only have a positive effect on our channel partners.”</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/05/article/Sonys-new-kiosk-still-a-work-in-progress-First-look-at-the-new-format/RGUWTXCOTZ.html" target="_blank">Current.com.au previously reported</a> that the kiosk was intended to open on 1 April according to Creative Activation, the “brand and retail agency” that Sony engaged for the launch of the new kiosk. This date was revised to 4 April based on information from Westfield Centre management.</p> <p> Sony today confirmed that the kiosk was slated for a “soft launch” for shoppers on 6 April, in order to provide “a week for staff and fittings to become fully operational in time for the official opening on April 13”.</p> <p> <a href="http://i.imgur.com/b0xUBbs.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="221" src="/image/Sony Parramatta Official_300.jpg" width="300" /></a></p> <p> The new Sony kiosk in Westfield Parramatta (click on image above for a larger view).</p> <p> Is going direct good or bad for retailers and brands? <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/03/25/article/We-want-your-views-on-the-industry-and-youll-get-some-free-PR/GSJMDQAAAV" target="_blank">Tell us what you think.</a></p> Fri, 12 Apr 2013 09:51:44 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/He-did-it-Gerry-Harvey-correctly-predicted-that-he-would-beat-you/CVGVCGCFYL.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/He-did-it-Gerry-Harvey-correctly-predicted-that-he-would-beat-you/CVGVCGCFYL.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent is a real history buff so it greatly appreciates Harvey Norman helping to plug the gaps in the potted history of that famous retail brand. The following video, furnished by Harvey Norman themselves, recounts the high and lows of Gerry Harvey's career selling appliances.</p> <p> Watch out for Harvey taking a shot at failed businessman Alan Bond and listen up for the bizarre spaghetti western intro. Stay until the end and you will be rewarded with Gerry doing a song and dance:</p> <p> </p> <p> Interestingly, all the rival retailers Gerry attacks in this video did go out of business, so he was right when he said he was going to beat you.</p> Thu, 11 Apr 2013 17:28:47 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/OPED-As-the-economy-improves-retailers-need-to-retain-customers/IMHCZVTATI.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/OPED-As-the-economy-improves-retailers-need-to-retain-customers/IMHCZVTATI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> In this guest post sent to Current.com.au by RSM Bird Cameron, Andrew Graham, national head of business solutions, offers five tips on how to keep customers.</p> <p> Retailers need to move away from ‘survival mode’ to create a positive retail environment that takes full advantage of the fact that consumers are beginning to spend again, albeit slowly and cautiously.</p> <p> It is important to create a positive experience to keep customers coming back. This is the easiest way to increase sales, improve profit and grow your business. Differentiating from the online buying experience can be a key focus for traditional retailers in their strategy to woo consumers.</p> <p> It can cost up to six times more to win a new customer than it does to have an existing customer purchase again. This is because you invested time and money to acquire that customer for the first sale but every additional sale after that involves very little cost.</p> <p> For every sale you make to a previous customer, you keep more as profit.</p> <p> Five ways to promote customer retention</p> <p> 1. Awareness and consideration: Be aware of what your customer is looking for and make sure this is what you are offering whenever you communicate with each customer and in every marketing initiative.</p> <p> 2. Select and buy: Streamline your purchasing process to ensure it is as simple as possible for customers to buy from you.</p> <p> 3. Initial experience: Prevent buyer’s remorse by actively engaging your customers after the initial buy. Inquire immediately about their level of satisfaction and provide information that reinforces the reason for their purchase.</p> <p> 4. Use, learn and support: Continue to nurture relationships with your customers at all times, including post-sale.</p> <p> 5. Repurchase and recommend: Engage your customers in future sales opportunities by encouraging them to recommend you. Act swiftly to correct errors or address complaints and offer an incentive for them to return.</p> <p> According to its company profile, RSM Bird Cameron “offers a full range of specialist advisory services, including business consulting and advisory, assurance and advisory, taxation consulting, corporate consulting and turnaround and insolvency".</p> <p> Have something to say about this? Or another issue affecting the industry? <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/03/25/article/We-want-your-views-on-the-industry-and-youll-get-some-free-PR/GSJMDQAAAV" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(8,84,199); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: rgb(255,255,255); text-decoration: none; outline: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: auto; orphans: auto" target="_blank">Tell us what you think.</a></p> Thu, 11 Apr 2013 16:32:41 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/Asus-launches-combo-tabletPC-Transformer-All-in-One-exclusive-to-Harvey-Norman/HHAVWOUGKS.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/Asus-launches-combo-tabletPC-Transformer-All-in-One-exclusive-to-Harvey-Norman/HHAVWOUGKS.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Asus today unveiled its Transformer All-in-One (AiO) combination tablet and desktop PC, running both Windows 8 and Android, which will be launched exclusively through Harvey Norman.</p> <p> There will only be one SKU of the AiO at launch, a 3rd Generation Intel i5 model, which will be joined by an i7 model in June or July, according to Asus marketing coordinator Angus Tong.</p> <p> Comprising an 18.4-inch Full HD tablet, which then also doubles as the screen when in desktop PC mode, the AiO has 32GB of storage in the tablet and 1TB in the resting dock that is used to transform it into a more traditional computer.</p> <p> Users have the choice of either Windows 8, which Asus demonstrated in PC mode, or Android 4.1, which is the presumed preference for tablet use. The screen runs off an NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor and has a quoted battery life of five hours. There is a flip stand for watching content and a carry lever for improved portability.Œ</p> <p> Although Asus showed videos of consumers using the AiO in tablet mode — even comparing it favourably with ‘bland iPad use’ — the screen is so big and heavy (2.4 kilograms) that it seems unlikely that it could be used to replicate common tablet applications like e-book reading on public transport or web browsing on the couch.</p> <p> In a more believable scene, Asus showed a consumer using the tablet as a de facto TV while preparing a meal in the kitchen. In this instance, the user was able to pause the video, open a web browser and check the recipe.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Starting at RRP $1,999 the Transformer AiO will only be available at Harvey Norman. We asked Tong why this was the case.</p> <p> “This exclusivity is just for the first few months,” he said. “We wanted to target families and we know that a lot of families visit Harvey Norman stores to look and purchase whitegoods and appliances.</p> <p> “Harvey Norman is a good outlet for us to launch at.”</p> <p> The PC station has four USB 3.0 and one 2.0 inputs, one multi-card reader and an HDMI out slot. The tablet has a MicroSD card reader and one mini USB input.</p> <p> In the box accessories include a wireless mouse and keyboard and a cleaning cloth.</p> <p> Herbert Leung from Asus discussed the design concept behind this release.</p> <p> “Before we even launched we won a Red Dot Design Award for our latest Transformer All-in-One,” he said. “When a consumer decides to buy a new PC, they want something that is easy to share, is portable and has high performance; so this is the product they need.</p> <p> “It’s a PC and a tablet in one box — it has two systems with two processors inside — you pay one price and you get two machines with two operating systems: Windows 8 and Google Android.”</p> <p> This article has been amended to reflect the following change: the starting price of the Asus Transformer All-in-One is RRP $1,999.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="450" src="/image/ASUS TFAiO_Display-PC Station_LR(2).jpg" width="496" /></p> <p> Asus Transformer All-in-One.</p> Thu, 11 Apr 2013 16:03:39 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/ACCC-denies-Narta-the-right-to-fix-Beko-advertising-prices/BGYGAIVCCI.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/ACCC-denies-Narta-the-right-to-fix-Beko-advertising-prices/BGYGAIVCCI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> A proposal by Narta to fix advertising prices of Beko appliances has been quashed by the ACCC as it would present “a significant public detriment”. Narta had wanted to set minimum pricing on Beko products for its members, which include Bing Lee, Betta Electrical, Myer, Bi-Rite, Retravision and David Jones.</p> <p> Since launching in late 2011, Beko has been sold exclusively through Narta stores. Current.com.au understands that several Narta members have been unhappy with rival members’ catalogue promotions for the brand.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> “The ACCC has denied authorisation because Narta’s proposed conduct would be likely to result in significant public detriment by reducing competition between retailers and raising both the advertised and selling prices of electrical products,” said ACCC deputy chair Michael Schaper.</p> <p> “Allowing Narta to set a minimum advertising price on a broad range of electrical goods may have provided increased choice for consumers on some products but the ACCC considers this benefit is likely to be outweighed by the reduction in competition between retailers from setting minimum advertised prices.”</p> <p> The ACCC first hit out at Narta’s request to set minimum advertised pricing in January 2013. At the time, ACCC said it was “concerned” by this proposal. Narta's application asked for authority to unilateraly set the price for some Beko products without agreement from its members.</p> <p> To do this, Narta would have needed to change its constitution. The relevant amendment would have read:</p> <p> "When advertising the price of goods purchased under a Narta initiated collective purchase for Beko branded electrical products, new release or premium electrical goods, and exclusive models of electrical goods, you [a retailer] agree to use only the minimum advertising price as may be specified by Narta for those goods from time to time. The selling price of those goods remains completely at the individual member’s discretion."</p> <p> Having standard minimum advertising prices does not necessarily mean retailers cannot undercut each other when negotiating with customers. It does, however, make the impotent the ability for retailers to attract consumers with significant discounts on rival retailers in catalogues.</p> <p> As Narta has the exclusive distribution rights for members, the group had hoped to install minimum pricing among the retailers it represents to offset internal discord. Beko has become a de facto house brand for Narta and, although it has been <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/02/article/Beko-Australia-explains-product-recall-situation-to-Narta-members/AFKJUWDFWP" target="_blank">troubled by product recall issues</a>, it remains a valuable part of the retailers’ product mix.</p> Thu, 11 Apr 2013 13:48:52 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/What-does-Tony-Stark-watch-when-hes-at-home/RMEHWELWWD.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/What-does-Tony-Stark-watch-when-hes-at-home/RMEHWELWWD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> With news that TCL is partnering with Iron Man 3 for a new series of retail promotions, timed to coincide with the Australian premiere of the film on 24 April, UnderCurrent was intrigued to see how the Chinese brand would feature in the new blockbuster.</p> <p> We happened upon this little trailer, and while TCL’s official TVC is still yet to launch in Australia, it could provide a bit of insight in just how many TVs Iron Man 3’s lead character, Tony Stark, has in his “luxurious, high-tech mansion” — as TCL calls it.</p> <p> No word yet on whether TCL is set to move into the production of red and yellow power suits for avenging super heroes. They do claim to run state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities after all.</p> <p> </p> Thu, 11 Apr 2013 13:41:51 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/Winning-Appliances-plays-Jean-Genie-with-Smeg-promotion/UZJHIOGZRB.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/16/article/Winning-Appliances-plays-Jean-Genie-with-Smeg-promotion/UZJHIOGZRB.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Winning Appliances can count itself as one of the top 500 retailers in the world if its new consumer promotion is anything to go by, with the retailer offering consumers the chance to win a limited edition Denim FAB refrigerator from Smeg by shopping in-stores this weekend.</p> <p> The competition offers consumers the chance to win Smeg’s distinctive denim-covered FAB28 refrigerator, first shown off at the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/04/17/article/Smegs-denim-refrigerator-where-appliances-and-clothing-meet/DRWODMKEDU.html" target="_blank">EuroCucina cooking appliance trade show</a> in Milan last year. The refrigerator is just one of 500 that were released worldwide, and was awarded as <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/11/22/article/Editors-Picks-The-2012-Appliance-of-the-Year/YNNBXYYPIG.html" target="_blank">Editor’s Pick for Appliance of the Year</a> in Appliance Retailer magazine, Current.com.au’s sister publication.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The promotion is open to any private consumer that makes an in-store purchase from Friday 19 April to Monday 22 April 2013.</p> <p> The promotion ties in with a Smeg sale that Winnings is holding at its stores during the same period this weekend, with the retailer offering some products for $800 less than recommended retail price.</p> <p> Full details on the competition can be found on the <a href="http://winningappliancesblog.com.au/sales-and-promotions/win-a-smeg-fab-fridge-in-denim-at-our-smeg-sale/" target="_blank">Winning Appliances website</a>.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="296" src="/image/Smeg Denim Fridge.jpg" width="292" /></p> <p> Smeg's FAB28 denim fridge.</p> Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:43:28 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/Scenes-from-a-Cinema-Bosch-Relaxxx-launch-image-gallery/HPBGMCCNYV.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/Scenes-from-a-Cinema-Bosch-Relaxxx-launch-image-gallery/HPBGMCCNYV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> With Captions by Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Bosch last night hosted Harvey Norman staff at the Palace Verona for the <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/Relaxxxing-night-for-Harvey-Norman-staff-at-Bosch-bagless-vacuum-launch/DBYTKAMKGR" target="_blank">launch of its Relaxx'x range of bagless vacuum cleaners</a>. Here is a selection of images from the night, courtesy of a Bosch photographer.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Relaxx'x launch (1).jpg" width="451" /></p> <p> The new range: the red model on the far left is the Zoo'o ProAnimal.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Relaxx'x launch (3).jpg" width="451" /></p> <p> Harvey Norman staff ham it up (or should it popcorn it up?) for the cameras.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="451" src="/image/Relaxx'x launch (4).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Bosch category development manager Jonathan Peart showcases the easy access brush head on the ProAnimal.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Relaxx'x launch (5).jpg" width="451" /></p> <p> Jonathan Peart and Ian Crawford from Harvey Norman Moore Park.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Relaxx'x launch (6).jpg" width="451" /></p> <p> New Bosch NSW and ACTŒaccount manager Eddie Jung, Gavin Budd from Harvey Norman Mascot, Ian Crawford and Jonathan Peart.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="451" src="/image/Relaxx'x launch (7).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Bosch demonstrated the Relaxx'x's suction by vacuuming some popcorn on the stage.</p> Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:12:28 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/Relaxxxing-night-for-Harvey-Norman-staff-at-Bosch-bagless-vacuum-launch/DBYTKAMKGR.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/Relaxxxing-night-for-Harvey-Norman-staff-at-Bosch-bagless-vacuum-launch/DBYTKAMKGR.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Bosch last night held the second event in its national roadshow to launch the new Relaxx’x range of bagless vacuum cleaners. Host Jonathan Peart, category development manager for consumer products, welcomed Harvey Norman staff to the Palace Verona in Paddington to touch and feel the four new models.</p> <p> Like Nilfisk and Electrolux, Bosch markets both bagged and bagless vacuum cleaners. The advantage of this strategy is that you have products to suit all preferences. The disadvantage is that you can’t take a side and drive home a moral absolute, in the way Miele (bagged) and Dyson (bagless) have perfected.</p> <p> Joining Bosch’s Free’e range of bagged vacuums are four Relaxx’x units. Three of the units in this range form a good/better/best story, while the fourth is a dedicated pet unit called the Zoo’o.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> All models have 3-litre canisters and a lifetime HEPA filter. Accessories include a hard floor tool and 3-in-1 tool (crevice, upholstery and furniture brush). The Zoo’o model features a turbo brush with one-touch removal for access, making it easier to extract any pet hairs that have become lodged in the cleaning head.</p> <p> “Flexibility is assured with Bosch’s variable power feature – these vacuums can clean any surface, including carpets, hard floor, upholstery and curtains,” Peart said. “Their Robust Air System combines high power airflow, aerodynamic design and larger inlet diameters, which increase airflow for higher dust pick up.”</p> <p> Peart continued to stress the low noise levels achieved by the Relaxx’x range. The four models operate at between 68 and 74 dB (A).</p> <p> In addition to unveiling the new products, Peart also introduced Eddie Jung, Bosch’s new dedication account manager for New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.</p> <p> “Eddie has only been with Bosch for a few weeks and the response has been excellent from all the stores,” Peart said. “We really appreciate his efforts in the start-up again of Bosch in New South Wales.”</p> <p> The Sydney launch followed a Brisbane event on 27 March 2013 and precedes two launches in Perth later this month (22 and 23 April 2013). Peart said the Bosch team was still finalising details for a function in Melbourne.</p> <p> The four new Relaxx’x models are the Pro Essential (BGS5220AU, RRP $599), Pro Silence (BGS5SIL1AU, RRP $699), All Floor Specialist BGS5225AU (RRP $849) and the Zoo’o ProAnimal BGS5ZOOAU (RRP $779).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="400" src="/image/Bosch Relaxx'x ProSilence image (BGS5SIL1AU).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Bosch Relaxx'x ProSilence.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="341" src="/image/Bosch Zoo'o ProAnimal (BGS5ZOOAU) (3).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Some very cute animals admire the Bosch Zoo'o ProAnimal.</p> Thu, 11 Apr 2013 10:50:53 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/Rapid-growth-for-Masters-a-highlight-in-Woolworths-quarterly-results/YBLRRRQFXV.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/Rapid-growth-for-Masters-a-highlight-in-Woolworths-quarterly-results/YBLRRRQFXV.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> Woolworths Limited has announced its third quarter sales results with the retail group once again showing a strong performance from its home improvement chain, Masters. For the 13 weeks to 31 March 2013, sales for Masters were up 37.4 per cent year-on-year to $290 million (Q3 sales for FY12 were $211 million).</p> <p> Over the quarter, Masters opened four new warehouses, bringing the total network to 29. While still a fraction of major competitor Bunnings’ network — which consisted of 211 warehouses, 62 smaller format stores and 37 trade centres as of 14 February 2013 — the network has seen significant growth in the since opening its first store in Melbourne in 2011. There are also plans to open one more shopfront before the end of the 2013 financial year.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Speaking about the results and the brand’s expansion was Masters director, Melinda Smith.</p> <p> “During the quarter, we continued the roll-out of new stores, with 29 Masters stores now trading,” she said. “The February ‘Trade Month’ proved to be a great success, with many new trade members signing up to the Masters program.</p> <p> “Additionally, the launch of the new Masters App in March has received a positive response from customers allowing them to view product features and specifications, purchase online, compare products and prices with those of competitors, chat online with our customer service team and view DIY articles, videos and handy hints and tips.”</p> <p> Also operating in the electrical category within Woolworths’ retail offering is Big W, which saw a smaller 3.6 per cent increase in sales year-on-year, lifting from $3.29 billion to $3.41 billion.</p> <p> Here’s Big W director, Julie Coates.</p> <p> “Big W’s trading for the quarter was supported by solid Back to School and Easter promotional activity as we continue to focus on events and promotions that are profitable and attractive to our customers,” she said.</p> <p> “Strong growth in customers and units continues to confirm Big W’s strong value proposition — offering the lowest prices on the widest range of quality and branded merchandise every day.”</p> <p> However, strength was not seen across the whole store.</p> <p> “The [quarterly] result was impacted by further declines in the Home Entertainment category, particularly the cycling of non-profitable clearance activity in the prior year.”</p> <p> Big W’s store network stayed at 176 in the quarter, though the retailer plans two open a further two stores by the end of the financial year.</p> Thu, 11 Apr 2013 10:25:55 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/10/article/Camberwell-winning-over-builders-and-consumers-with-expo-approach/LYDVLKIJDO.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/10/article/Camberwell-winning-over-builders-and-consumers-with-expo-approach/LYDVLKIJDO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> Camberwell Electrics has been continuing its proactive approach to generating customers, exhibiting at the Melbourne HIA Home Show last weekend. Products from Beko, Fisher & Paykel and V-Zug were the focus of this exhibition for the Narta member retailer.</p> <p> Hans Vanderstadt, principal of the family business, told Current.com.au that these exhibitions provide a form of promotion that was more intimate and engaging than traditional catalogue advertising.</p> <p> “The HIA show is all about exposing brands and products to consumers and the building industry,” he said. “You can put an ad in the newspaper but at the show people can touch and feel the products.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 13px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The show provided Camberwell Electrics with a good opportunity to promote the relatively new Beko brand, Vanderstadt said, as well as Fisher & Paykel’s new high-end DCS grills.</p> <p> “There is a very broad visitor base for this show,” Vanderstadt explained. “You get a lot of people from the building industry learning about the various products, plus first home owners, young families and empty nesters looking to renovate their kitchen.”</p> <p> <img alt="" height="400" src="/image/01Camberwell.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> Builders and consumers examine the new Beko range.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/300Camberwell.jpg" width="400" /></p> <p> Vanderstadt said Felix Halter, executive chef at V-Zug Australia, gave hourly cooking demonstrations to enraptured audiences across the four days of the show.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/03Camberwell.jpg" width="400" /></p> <p> Camberwell has been a big supporter of V-Zug, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/02/21/article/Camberwell-Electrics-gobsmacked-to-win-V-Zug-national-award/EIKUCFCKEY.html" target="_blank">winning its Retail Partner of the Year award</a>.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="300" src="/image/04Camberwell.jpg" width="400" /></p> <p> Fisher & Paykel's DCS grills on display at the show.</p> <p> We are always interested to find out what retailers are doing to promote their businesses. <a href="mailto:patrick@intermedia.com.au?subject=Retailers">Get in touch here.</a> Œ</p> Wed, 10 Apr 2013 12:00:55 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/10/article/Glem-Gas-opens-first-Sydney-showroom-to-benefit-Glem-and-Emilia-retailers/OHEAMMNAWO.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/10/article/Glem-Gas-opens-first-Sydney-showroom-to-benefit-Glem-and-Emilia-retailers/OHEAMMNAWO.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Sydney retailers wanting to learn more about the Glem and Emilia brands now have a dedicated showroom where they can learn more about products, speak directly with Glem Gas staff and, importantly, refer potential customers for a pre-sale cooking demonstration.</p> <p> The new Glem Gas showroom is located at Shop 5, 662 Botany Road Alexandria, right in the heart of the Sydney City homemaker district. Across the Glem and Emilia brands, the showroom will include freestanding and built-in ovens, cooktops, rangehoods and dishwashers.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Here is Glem Glas Australasia MD David Gilmore:</p> <p> “The two level showroom displays appliances downstairs, while a fully functioning kitchen and dining space has been installed upstairs.</p> <p> “The upstairs venue will be used for training purposes and pre- and post-consumer cooking experiences. Initially the showroom will be open via appointment only although early indicators show that set opening hours may be required.</p> <p> “The new showroom provides us with a great environment in which we can present both of our brands and has already received a great response from retailers and passing consumers.</p> <p> “Product training has also begun, with particular focus on our Gas cooking and Bi Energy products.Œ</p> <p> “The support we provide our retailers and customers through this new facility will further build on the success of the brand.</p> <p> “Glem has a strong global presence and is the best selling cooker brand in Italy. The Sydney showroom should help to increase the profile of the brand in Australia.”</p> <p> Glem Gas already has a Melbourne showroom, located at 661 Nepean Highway Brighton.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="400" src="/image/Showroom emilia (2).jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> The Emilia brand will be featured at the Glem Gas showroom.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="400" src="/image/Showroom glem.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> According to its website, Glem is "the biggest selling cooker brand in Italy".</p> Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:27:04 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/10/article/Hisense-launches-new-website-appeals-to-prospective-retailers/BPMWHVFDLK.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/10/article/Hisense-launches-new-website-appeals-to-prospective-retailers/BPMWHVFDLK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> As part of its broader strategy to appeal to more consumers and move up the market ladder towards the higher end, Hisense Australia has unveiled a new website aimed at communicating the features of its TV and refrigerator ranges.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/01/10/article/Hisense-launching-Ultra-HD-Google-TV-laundry-and-Android-fridges-in-Australia/ICJHBCWLHJ.html" target="_blank">As revealed by Current.com.au at the 2013 International CES</a>, Hisense is planning an aggressive mid-year Smart TV rollout, which it hopes will bridge the traditional time and feature gap between the Korean and Japanese brands and the challenger Chinese suppliers.</p> <p> At launch, the Hisense website only has information on TVs, Refrigerators, Freezers and Wine Cabinets, though there is plenty of space available for expected new products such as Google TV boxes, laundry appliances and tablets.</p> <p> There are four pillars to the Hisense story, according to the new website, which will form the backbone of the company’s direct communication with consumers. These are Technology, Quality & Value, Service and Warranty.</p> <p> <a href="http://www.hisense.com.au/" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="300" src="/image/Hisense web(2).bmp" width="353" /></a></p> <p> (click image to visit the Hisense Australia website)</p> <p> The commercial side of Hisense’s business is also represented, with B2B TV displays and air conditioning being spruiked to potential clients.</p> <p> From an industry perspective, perhaps the most interesting page is its dedicated message to retailers.</p> <p> “We believe that carrying Hisense is a very savvy business decision,” the website says.</p> <p> “Here are just a few of the reasons some of the Australia's largest retailers are choosing Hisense, and why you should too.”</p> <p> The website then lists Hisense’s four pillars, plus mentioning that the company is the fifth largest TV brand in the world and its product portfolio includes “a wide variety of products, from the basic to the very latest in advanced technology products”.</p> <p> Hisense Australia also has a <a href="https://twitter.com/Hisense_aust" target="_blank">Twitter page with 59 followers</a>. Œ</p> Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:07:04 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/OPED-Keep-social-media-at-head-office-and-away-from-individual-stores/CGASWYMKYT.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/OPED-Keep-social-media-at-head-office-and-away-from-individual-stores/CGASWYMKYT.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Retailers such as Harvey Norman and JB Hi-Fi are running unified social media strategies out of their head offices. Other retail groups, however, have chosen to recentralise social media, encouraging individual retailers to run their own Facebook pages and Twitter streams.</p> <p> In this special guest post, social media expert Chris Kirby, head of research at Fifth Quadrant, argues that the unified strategy is superior. </p> <p> In our experience, we have found that a decentralised social media model can lead to significant issues that impact the customer experience.</p> <p> These issues range from inconsistent messaging; customer confusion, as there are too many sites to potentially engage through; and the duplication of roles leading to increased operational costs.</p> <p> Managing social media is a significant business risk and, therefore, having a single-minded organisation-wide strategy should be considered.</p> <p> This does not mean that each store can’t contribute, however, it is imperative that social media is managed through a central team. Strict governance, policies and processes should be established to minimise risk and ensure that a consistent experience for customers is delivered.</p> <p> We have found that as organisations have evolved their social media capabilities it has done so organically and without due consideration. This has sometimes led to a very fragmented social media presence. These leading social media organisations are now focused on consolidating their social media footprint and establishing centralised teams to ensure the channel is very carefully controlled and managed.</p> <p> Our advice would be to establish and enterprise-wide social media strategy. Within this strategy, consideration should be given to human resource issues such as capacity, skills and organisational structure.</p> <p> In addition, the strategy should include strong governance frameworks. Further consideration should be given to the technology requirements that need to be in place to support the strategy.</p> <p> Finally, it is imperative that risk management strategies and processes are identified and established to ensure the organisation is prepared for adverse situations.</p> <p> According to its company profile, Fifth Quadrant provides management consulting; customer experience research; customer experience co-creation and design; multi-country market analysis; advanced data analytics, including Big Data consulting; diagnostic assessment of operations and technology; customer experience strategy development; and execution and improvement of operations.</p> <p> Have something to say about this? Or another issue affecting the industry? <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/03/25/article/We-want-your-views-on-the-industry-and-youll-get-some-free-PR/GSJMDQAAAV" 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(8,84,199); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: rgb(255,255,255); border-right-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; outline: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: auto; orphans: auto" target="_blank">Tell us what you think.</a></p> Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:52:09 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/UnderCurrents-seven-classic-commercials-from-a-simpler-time/TUDXUQIYVF.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/UnderCurrents-seven-classic-commercials-from-a-simpler-time/TUDXUQIYVF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent would like to thank valued reader Gary for bringing the following videos to its attention. Here below is a collection to stir the memories and remind us of a time when Clive Peeters sold beds, technology came to Queensland and digital watches cost $2.</p> <p> Mobility Was Never So Heavy (National/Panasonic)</p> <p> </p> <p> It's hard to believe this actor kept a straight face while going on about the portability of his enormous camera and audio recording suitcase.</p> <p> Whatever Status Quo Wants (Billy Guyatts)</p> <p> </p> <p> Long before these soulless rockers had sold out to Coles they let Billy promote one year interest free TV purchases.</p> <p> Gerry's Going To Beat You (Harvey Norman)</p> <p> </p> <p> An incredibly bland 55 seconds followed by Gerry leading his Auburn store staff in a cultlike 'We're going to beat you' mantra. The leader is good, the leader is great...</p> <p> Twas Boredom Killed The BeastŒ(Clive Peeters)</p> <p> </p> <p> UnderCurrent is unsure if this is actually the Clive Peeters but it is concerned that whoever it is sold his personality to a customer.</p> <p> Showgirls + Cheap Watches = Waltons (Waltons)</p> <p> </p> <p> There is something incredibly thought provoking abou this ad: what exactly do the girls at the start have to do with the products being sold?</p> <p> Foots-a-cray Cowboy (Stan Cash)</p> <p> </p> <p> An oldie but a goodie - if you thought the $3.95 watches at Waltons were cheap, check out the cowboy's range of $2 timekeepers...</p> <p> And we've saved the best for last...</p> <p> Technology Comes To Queensland (Chandlers)</p> <p> </p> <p> It's fair to say this ad has not aged well. UnderCurrent can't work out what it likes most about this video: the rampant Queensland parochialism, the synthesised music or the not-so-convincing tagline 'We stand behind the product we sell'.</p> Tue, 09 Apr 2013 15:57:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/TCL-joins-with-Iron-Man-3-for-major-retail-marketing-drive/TRNPKUBAEF.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/11/article/TCL-joins-with-Iron-Man-3-for-major-retail-marketing-drive/TRNPKUBAEF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> TCL is embarking on an extensive marketing campaign to promote its line-up of flat panel TVs, leveraging a tie-in with Marvel’s Iron Man 3 film to gain exposure for its brand.</p> <p> The Chinese home entertainment and whitegoods brand has sealed a deal that will see its products feature in Iron Man 3, including the brand’s 110-inch, 4K Full HD 3D LCD TV which is used by the eponymous Tony Stark in the film.</p> <p> TCL is also rolling out Iron Man imagery across its point of sale and conducting consumer promotions in Harvey Norman and Betta retail stores to promote the association with the film. In total, the campaign is being billed as TCL’s “biggest single quarter of marketing activity” with a local marketing spend in the region of $1 million.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Speaking about the Iron Man 3 tie-in, general manager of TCL Electronics Australia Sunny Xiang, said this campaign was “especially significant” for the Australian market.</p> <p> “Our local retail partners have been excited by our range and like our vision and commitment to the market,” said Xiang. “A campaign like this adds an important third element, as it also demonstrates to them that we can be exciting marketing partners too, delivering something compelling on the floor that will excite consumers and give them more reasons to consider and purchase a TCL TV.</p> <p> “We have worked closely with some of our retail customers on specific campaigns to coincide with the movie release. As such we are confident that this tie-in to Iron Man 3 will not just increase and improve our brand recognition, but will importantly also deliver increased sell-through.”</p> <p> At a retail level, the brand is running two promotions through Harvey Norman and Betta Stores Retail. Customers who purchase the TCL E5000 Smart 3D TV from Harvey Norman will receive a $75 Harvey Norman gift card, while customers who purchase a E5000 or V7300 Smart 3D TV will receive an Iron Man pack, including a popcorn machine, an extra pair of Active 3D glasses, and a Blu-Ray copy of Iron Man 2.</p> <p> The promotions will be rounded out by a digital campaign — including a treasure hunt for Iron Man suits hidden around the country with clues provided via social media — as well as a TVC that will air from mid-April through until May.</p> <p> <a href="http://imgur.com/lfIvo6V" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="342" src="/image/Harvey Norman City Cross_300.JPG" width="300" /></a></p> <p> TCL's new point-of-sale on display in Harvey Norman (click image above to see a larger size).</p> Thu, 11 Apr 2013 13:12:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/Retravision-reveals-new-network-241-stores-gone-in-less-than-a-year/JNRAPTJYUD.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/Retravision-reveals-new-network-241-stores-gone-in-less-than-a-year/JNRAPTJYUD.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> After once consisting of almost 300 stores across Australia, the Retravision network will now be made up of just 24 stores — predominantly based in Western Australia — according to a new list published on the <a href="http://retravision.com.au/" target="_blank">Retravision website</a>.</p> <p> The 24 stores represent the new-look Retravision franchise, following the acquisition of the brand by Narta which was effective on 1 April 2013.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; text-align: center; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; widows: 2; text-transform: none; background-color: transparent; text-indent: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: rgb(127,196,35); border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> According to figures from a Current.com.au audit, there were 265 stores operating under a Retravision shingle in May 2012. This included stores in New South Wales (56), Queensland (64), Victoria (67), Tasmania (11), South Australia (18), the Northern Territory (4) and Western Australia (44).</p> <p> In less than a year, those numbers have dropped by more than 90 per cent to just 24 — consisting of 21 stores in Western Australia, two stores in South Australia and one in Queensland.</p> <p> In that time, Retravision went from <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/02/02/article/Retravision-Confidential-Private-email-reveals-Perth-base-many-job-losses/UJGEKGPDEF.html" target="_blank">talks of being a “fully unified organisation”</a> to a retail group in disarray as Retravision Southern collapsed and a vast number of retailers were forced to close or find new homes in competing buying groups.</p> <p> At the end of last year, <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2012/11/07/article/BREAKING-Retravision-tells-180-stores-to-find-new-home/NUUPBWZZGQ.html" target="_blank">180 old Retravision stores were told to find a new home</a> as Retravision Western announced it was winding up its business and joining the Narta group as of 1 April 2013, saying it was “no longer able to support a stand-alone national or state business model for the Retravision brand”. Many of these stores moved to the new Leading Appliances groupŒand Betta Home Living, or to smaller groups such as Bi-Rite and Kambo's.</p> <p> Retravision will no doubt remain a well-known name in Western Australia, with a large concentration of stores around Perth and the south-west coast (see map below). But the shift marks the end of an era for the electrical retail industry on the east coast, with just one store remaining in Queensland.</p> <p> <a href="http://imgur.com/NyNI9rl" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="276" src="/image/New Retra Store map_300.JPG" width="300" /></a></p> <p> A map of Retravision’s new store network, showing state and territory capitals in red and Retravision stores in blue (click image above for a larger view). </p> <p> <img alt="" height="530" src="/image/Retra Perth Map.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> A map of Perth and surrounds showing Retravision stores in Green.</p> <p> The full list of stores in the new-look Retravision network (as published on Retravision’s website on 8 April 2013):</p> <p> Western Australia Albany Retravision: Shop 6, 35-37 Campbell Road, Albany 6330 Belmont Retravision: Shop 19, Belmont Shopping Centre, 277 Belmont Avenue, Belmont 6104 Bridgetown Retravision: 23 Steere Street, Bridgetown 6255 Broome Retravision: Unit 1, 32 Pembroke Street, Broome 6725 Bunbury Retravision: 59 Forrest Ave, Bunbury 6230 Busselton Retravision: 44 Bussell Highway, Busselton 6280 Cannington Retravision: 1490 Albany Highway, Cannington 6107 City Retravision: 445 Hay Street, Perth 6000 Esperance Appliance Centre: 106 Dempster Street, Esperance 6450 Joondalup Retravision: 7 Winton Road, Joondalup 6027 Kalgoorlie Retravision: 10 Federal Road, Kalgoorlie 6430 Kununurra Retravision: Whitegum Street, Kununurra 6743 Lil's Karratha Retravision: Karratha City Shopping Centre, Karratha 6714 Lil's Retravision: Lot 14 Throssel St, South Hedland 6722 Margaret River Retravision: 32 Station Road, Margaret River 6285 McCays Retravision: 7 Giblett Street, Manjimup 6258 Narrogin Retravision: 88 Federal Street, Narrogin 6312 Newman Retravision: Boulevard Shopping Centre, Newman 6753 Northam Retravision: 67 Fitzgerald Street, Northam 6401 O'Connor Retravision: 382 South Street, O'Connor 6163 Rockingham Retravision: 11 Enterprise Way, Rockingham 6168</p> <p> Queensland Webbers Retravision: 1 Aquatic Place, North Rockhampton 4700</p> <p> South Australia Dunstan's Electrical: 255 Main Street, Clare 5453 Kadina Electrical: 38 Graves Street, Kadina 5554</p> Tue, 09 Apr 2013 10:16:46 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/A-smarter-wash-and-greater-responsibility-LGs-whitegoods-strategy/UIIZFCPJTH.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/A-smarter-wash-and-greater-responsibility-LGs-whitegoods-strategy/UIIZFCPJTH.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> LG Australia is taking to the road to launch its new SmartWasher series of washing machines, with the brand touring the country on a national roadshow to promote the range and to reiterate its whitegoods strategy to Australian retailers.</p> <p> Speaking about the new range at yesterday’s product launch in Sydney, Murray Richardson, general manager of LG’s home appliances business unit, said key retail partners were being given a closer look at the line-up through the brand’s roadshow. Stopping in at Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney and Perth, the roadshow represented a “big investment” from a brand looking to solidify its position as a market leader in appliances.</p> <p> “The market is under a lot of competitive pressure at the moment,” said Richardson. “There’s a lot of talk about price rather than feature set and there’s been a gradual decline in average selling prices.</p> <p> “We want to take responsibility in turning this around.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Despite the decline in the market, Richardson said LG had been working hard to bring retailers a diversified product range and “better model mix” in its home appliances offering, focusing on premium products in order to separate the LG brand from others in the marketplace.</p> <p> “We are implementing a good, better, best strategy,” he said. “To do this successfully, you’ve got to have strong features.</p> <p> “We’re still trying to remain competitive, but we’re not the cheapest,” he added. “There are customers for each segment [of the good, better, best offering], but hopefully those customers in the ‘good’ zone would think of trading up to a ‘better’ model, based on LG’s features. We’re making the upsell easier for retailers.”</p> <p> One example of the strong features that LG is bringing in to encourage retailers to trade up is the introduction of its Direct Drive motors on SmartWash washing machines. First introduced three-to-four years ago, the Direct Drive motors improved machine performance, increased average selling prices by “about $150” and lead to increased connection to consumers.</p> <p> “People really understood it [the Direct Drive message] and really embraced it,” He said.</p> <p> According to Richardson, the features of a good product range need to be effectively communicated to consumers, which LG is doing with strong point-of-sale materials featuring brand ambassador and TV personality, Georgie Parker.</p> <p> This also needs to be matched by a strong partnership with retailers. In LG’s case, this is facilitated through its sales team, which is helping to get the LG message out into the broader market.</p> <p> “We’ve been told that we’ve got the best in the industry in terms of our sell-out team,” said Richardson. “The retailers are becoming our ambassadors.”</p> <p> With this latest launch, Richardson said he is happy with how LG is performing in the industry.</p> <p> “We’re really confident in what we’re doing and it’s a well calculated range,” he said.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="301" src="/image/LG Richardson Skropidis SmartWasher.jpg" width="300" /></p> <p> General manager of LG’s home appliances business unit, Murray Richardson (left) and marketing general manager Lambro Skropidis with LG’s new 10-kilogram Top Loader SmartWasher (WT-R10856, RRP $1,599).</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/LG-launches-new-SmartWasher-washing-machine-range/KCTVFHAKBM.html" target="_blank">Read Current.com.au’s round-up of the new SmartWasher line-up here.</a></p> Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:03:18 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/LG-launches-new-SmartWasher-washing-machine-range/KCTVFHAKBM.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/LG-launches-new-SmartWasher-washing-machine-range/KCTVFHAKBM.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> LG Electronics Australia yesterday unveiled the latest addition to its home appliances line-up with the launch of the new SmartWasher washing machine range.</p> <p> Designed with new features, better cleaning technology and large capacities for the Australian market, the range includes three key hero products — a 10-kilogram front loader, 10-kilogram top loader and a 9-kilogram Eco Hybrid model combining washer and dryer in one. has been developed to help address declining values in the whitegoods sector, according to LG’s general manager of marketing, Lambro Skropidis.</p> <p> Outlining the status of the current market, LG’s general manager of marketing Lambro Skropidis said consumers are increasingly moving towards larger machines, with 5-kilogram washers almost non-existent in the market and capacities over 9 kilograms making up 9 per cent of sales. In addition, almost 70 per cent of the local market is driven by sales of machines in the $501-$1,000 price point.</p> <p> In light of this, Skropidis said there was a need for a range of products with large capacities, and advanced feature sets to meet consumer demand and to help bring value back into the category.</p> <p> “With the market in decline due to excessive price competition but this growing consumer trend to buy bigger and better machines, the onus is on LG as market leaders to bring significant new innovation to drive the category value,” said Skropidis.</p> <p> “We’ve done just that.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; background-color: transparent; margin: 0px; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; padding-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); font-size: 13px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; text-decoration: underline; padding-top: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> The SmartWashers are “smart in the true sense of the word” according to Skropidis, with “smart features that consumers are asking for, not in isolation, but all in the one machine”</p> <p> LG is centring its message on four key features with the launch of the SmartWasher range. Aside from larger capacities, these features include LG’s proprietary 6 Motion Control, which delivers different washing actions to suit different fabrics and washing needs, TrueSteam Technology to loosen allergens in clothes and refresh fabrics on shorter cycles, and a Smart Diagnosis feature that allows consumers to use their smartphone to establish problems with their machine and send details to LG customer care.</p> <p> At the launch yesterday, Skropidis billed these new features as the “next evolution of the washing machine in the Australian marketplace,” saying LG had a responsibility as market leader to deliver such best-in-class performance.</p> <p> “By 2010 LG...had become the outright market leader in Australia, and has never really looked back,” said Skropidis.</p> <p> “With leadership comes new responsibility,” he added. “Our role for retailers is to grow the washing machine category and to build value in the category. Our role for consumers is to innovate, set the pace and provide meaningful innovation that they’re willing to invest in.”</p> <p> The range includes the 10-kilogram Front Load SmartWasher with Steam (WD14070SD6, RRP $1,899), 10-kilogram Inverter Direct Drive Top Load Washer (WT-R10856, RRP $1,599) and the 9-kilogram Eco Hybrid Condensor Dryer (TD-C901H, RRP $2,599).</p> <p> <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/A-smarter-wash-and-greater-responsibility-LGs-whitegoods-strategy/UIIZFCPJTH.html" target="_blank">Read Current.com.au's full interview with LG's general manager of home appliances, Murray Richardson.</a></p> <p> <img alt="" height="382" src="/image/LG WD14070SD6 Angle.bmp" width="300" /></p> <p> The new 10-kilogram Front Load SmartWasher with Steam from LG (WD14070SD6, RRP $1,899). </p> Tue, 09 Apr 2013 12:53:46 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/Sayonara-Yamanaka-Mitsubishi-Electric-welcomes-new-managing-director/GEEKHLEMLX.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/Sayonara-Yamanaka-Mitsubishi-Electric-welcomes-new-managing-director/GEEKHLEMLX.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Mitsubishi Electric has appointed a new managing director, Takeshi Shihonmatsu,Œreplacing Kotaro Yamanaka after a three year stint in charge of the company.</p> <p> “Mitsubishi Electric is a recognised leader in electrical and electronic products and systems and strengthening these areas will be my key focus during the year ahead,” said Shihonmatsu.</p> <p> “It will be my responsibility to challenge and drive new business and growth opportunities as well as enhance existing business.</p> <p> “I’m looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that this new role presents, and to driving Mitsubishi Electric’s local business to new heights, right across the consumer and industrial technology categories.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; outline: invert none 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; widows: 2; orphans: 2" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> A Mitsubishi Electric media statement confirmed that Yamanaka is returning to Japan to become the general manager for global planning at Mitsubishi Electric’s Tokyo head office.</p> <p> “It is with some sadness that I am leaving Sydney to take on this exciting new role in Tokyo,” Yamanaka said. “I have been in Australia for three years and I can say without hesitation that this has been an extremely enjoyable experience.”</p> <p> “It has been rewarding leading the company from strength to strength during what has been a very volatile time in the market.”</p> Tue, 09 Apr 2013 11:21:27 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/JB-has-always-been-home-to-mad-prices/PZRCUIVUWQ.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/09/article/JB-has-always-been-home-to-mad-prices/PZRCUIVUWQ.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> UnderCurrent would like to offer a nod for sale signage of the week to Parramatta JB Hi-Fi in Sydney’s Western Suburbs. This delightful banner, found hanging out the front of the store, pay’s tribute to the store’s manager, Brad Hall.</p> <p> Designed by the store’s sign writer (who UnderCurrent discovered is also a tattoo artist on the side) the image of Brad’s mad face fills the store on sale banners and price labels under products.</p> <p> One staff member even jokingly noted to UnderCurrent that the sign writer had perfectly captured Brad’s features for the signs (although Mr Hall was not found carrying a sign saying “I’ve Lost the Plot” when UnderCurrent visited last Friday).</p> <p> <img alt="" height="214" src="/image/JB Parra Sign 1.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> The sign outside JB Hi-Fi in Parramatta.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="482" src="/image/JB Parra Sign Close.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> A close-up of Brad's mad face...</p> Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:31:58 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/08/article/Retail-QA-Will-premium-TVs-really-generate-sales-this-year/SPKNESZQSX.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/08/article/Retail-QA-Will-premium-TVs-really-generate-sales-this-year/SPKNESZQSX.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Claire Reilly</p> <p> After the boom and bust in the flat panel TV market over recent years, the major consumer electronics brands are looking to revive the visual category with new products. This year will see a raft of new products entering the market, with massive 70-inch-plus and Ultra High Definition panels (also known as ‘4K’) already on the market, and plenty of talk of new OLED technology.</p> <p> But beyond the marketing spin and buzz being generated by the suppliers, what do retailers think? Current.com.au sat down with two retailers from Sydney’s western suburbs to talk about what’s really happening in consumer electronics retail at the moment.</p> <p> Brad Hall, store manager of JB Hi-Fi Parramatta, and Raed “RJ” Jawad, the store’s 2IC, give their view on the industry.</p> <p> What’s your verdict on the consumer electronics market this year?</p> <p> Brad Hall: I think the visual category is pretty flat and lacking some excitement. So 4K TV, will that be enough to spur on the market? I’m not sure. I think it’s better, but I just wonder if it’s that much better and enough to compel someone to get rid of a perfectly good TV and put another one there. 4K is amazing, but it’s not like the huge growth that we’ve had with set-top boxes — consumers coming in and saying my TV doesn’t work anymore so I’ve got to get a new TV. That’s not the case anymore.</p> <p> So you’ve seen a lot of growth with the switch-off of analogue TV?</p> <p> BH: Well it’s been great for five years. People were upgrading to get ready for the switchover to digital, but that ‘you must upgrade’ impetus is not there anymore. RJ, do you think 4K is going to be a revolution?</p> <p> Raed Jawad: For the price-point? No. People don’t have that money. It looks great, but people can’t justify it, the money’s going elsewhere I think. So it’s not going to help the stores.</p> <p> So being in Sydney’s western suburbs, what is your target market? What do customers around here look for?</p> <p> RJ: A great deal and cheap prices! Our clientele is very aggressive, and that’s the mindset that we need our staff to have as well. Sometimes we do have to take a deal, or sometimes we do have to make a big discount, but we try and focus on making it back with all the add-ons. So the complete sale if you like. Rather than just coming in and just buying the TV, what else are we going to sell with that TV to make back margin?</p> <p> BH: Yes, I think here and at certain other stores out in Sydney’s west, it’s cut throat. Bondi Junction doesn’t have that — it’s Platinum Amex, Platinum Amex, Platinum Amex! We don’t have any Platinum Amex! It’s the same store and same products, but very different customers and very different mindsets. We’d have similar sales, but probably a different bottom line.</p> <p> What products are popular in your store, and what are your customers gravitating towards?</p> <p> BH: Computers are massive, Windows 8 is massive, tablets and touchscreens are massive — and TV doesn’t really have any of that, there’s no revolution. But in computers, it is massive. So that’s been good for us.</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; widows: 2; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; widows: 2; outline-style: none; outline-color: invert; outline-width: 0px; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> What are your picks for products this year? What’s coming through that you’re excited about?</p> <p> B: Well I think more of the Asus TaiChi-style of product — double screen laptops, touch screen laptops, more of that. There are a couple out now, but then once the ranges expand, that’s exciting. We’re looking forward to a new iPhone some time this year, that’s exciting. The Galaxy S4 is launching soon, that’s exciting. That’s not our biggest category, but we sell a lot of devices, a lot of outright iPhones and outright Galaxies, so we’re excited about things like that.</p> <p> And what’s your big pick for the year, RJ?</p> <p> RJ: The S4 is going to be better again than the S3, which dominated. And from a personal point of view, I want to see the new TVs. It’s probably not going to help us much in sales, but I want to know, where else can they take it? How thin are they going to get? How much better is the picture going to be? And in terms of 4K, leaving the price-point aside, is it going to gather interest at all? Personally, I can’t wait for it, but whether we get a response or not is a different story.</p> <p> There are certainly some new features coming through in terms of Smart TV though...</p> <p> RJ: That’s the thing I’m worried about. How many other gimmicks are they going to do, and do people really care? Samsung, two series ago, had the hand motion detector. People look at that sort of thing in store, and it’s good for about two minutes, but it wasn’t really a selling point. People want to be in control [with a remote].</p> <p> BH: Yes, it’s all about how it translates to people in the street, whether that’s exciting or not.</p> <p> How have customers responded to big screens?</p> <p> RJ: Two years ago 46-inches was the norm for a big TV. Now it’s 55-inches as a minimum. So in people’s minds it’s a case of ‘We’ll use 55-inches as a base and we’ll work from there’.</p> <p> BH: The brands are going to 90- and 100-inch models, where are we going to fit them?! So I’m not overly excited about visual. The companies are trying to do some new stuff and create some buzz, but is it enough to translate into a mass run of products? I’m not sure. Sure there are early adopters, but as far as visual going through the roof again, I think that will take a while.</p> <p> RJ: I think it will be up to us as to how we teach our staff and how they can translate it and get the customers excited in store. They can’t just be looking at the picture and the price. We’ve got to sell it to them, saying ‘This is the best, and you’ve got to have it for these reasons’.</p> <p> BH: And that’s why we have the 80-inch Sharp TV on display, right in the front of the store. People see it and say ‘It’s amazing’. So, how about you buy it? We try and start the conversation.</p> <p> <img alt="" height="255" src="/image/JB Parramatta_Sharp.JPG" width="300" /></p> <p> Raed "RJ" Jawad and Brad Hall from JB Hi-Fi Parramatta, standing in front of Sharp's new 80-inch flat panel TV.</p> Mon, 08 Apr 2013 11:34:10 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/08/article/Woolworths-finally-discusses-its-Big-W-product-recall-problem/UACZDFFRAF.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/08/article/Woolworths-finally-discusses-its-Big-W-product-recall-problem/UACZDFFRAF.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> In this feature that first appeared in Appliance Retailer magazine, Woolworth Limited speaks for the first time about its woeful product recall record. Woolworths spoke to Current.com.au editor Patrick Avenell.</p> <p> Big W has the worst product recall record of any supplier in any industry in Australia. Eight Abode small appliances have been recalled since May 2011. In every case the defect could lead to a user suffering physical harm.</p> <p> Woolworths Limited, owner of Big W, has thus far refused to comment on its unenviable record, which encompasses recalls for electrocuting toasters, fire-hazard ovens and a choking-risk blender.</p> <p> For the first time, last month, Woolworths agreed to answer our questions, though only through an unnamed spokesperson. We asked Woolworths if it cared about Abode’s recall record.</p> <p> “The safety of the products our customers use is of paramount importance to use which is why we ensure all our products go through multiple quality assessments,” said the spokesperson. “Where a fault is foundˆwe take steps to investigate and rectify those issues.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; widows: 2; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; widows: 2; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Big W said Abode and other house brand appliances were sourced through both local distributors and directly from the manufacturers, most of which are based in China. The recalls it has enacted, the spokesperson said, were a result of Big W’s “internal end-to-end quality management program”.</p> <p> According to this process, when a recall occurs, Big W will “thoroughly investigate” the circumstances involved to develop what the spokesperson called “an action plan” to reduce “customer inconvenience”.</p> <p> That phrase — “customer inconvenience” — is a convenient euphemism. The inconveniences caused by faulty Abode products are far from mild.</p> <p> “The handles may detach if the product is lifted while containing oil, possibly causing serious burn injuries if hot oil splashes on the user or bystanders,” is how an ACCC website described an Abode deep fryer in July 2012.</p> <p> Here is another, this time for an Abode fan heater:</p> <p> “Incorrect internal crimping may result in the wiring and crimp connector overheating, causing a fire hazard.”</p> <p> Considering the incredible harm these products have the potential to cause, we asked what Big W was doing at the sourcing stage, before a product was imported and released, to reduce the number of dangerous appliances on its shelves and subsequent recalls.</p> <p> “The safety of our customers is Big W’s number one priority,” was the reply. “Before any Big W product makes it to the shelf, it has to meet relevant Australian regulatory requirements and independent third party checking, to ensure they meet specification before they arrive in store.”</p> <p> Considering customers are Big W’s number one priority, we asked if Big W was concerned that it is releasing products that have the potential to harm customers? The response we got, reprinted in full here, appears to dodge the question:</p> <p> “All of our Big W products have had to meet relevant Australian regulatory requirements and independent third party checking before they even get to the shelf. Any recalls have been voluntary as part of our internal quality management program. Of course, if any issues come to light, it’s only responsible that we take action and investigate, which is what we have done.”</p> <p> There is an argument that these continued Big W recalls are not that important. We couldn’t find any consumers who had been injured by these faulty products, so why dedicate so much newsprint to the issue?</p> <p> The Abode brand represents the worst in the electrical appliance industry. The definition of cheap and cheerful, Abode is the physical manifestation of a retailer trying to make a quick buck off an empirically inferior product while in competition with the name brand suppliers investing hundreds of thousands of dollars into research and development.</p> <p> It is telling that Australia’s two most iconic small appliances have both spoken out against this practice.</p> <p> Here is how GUD Holdings, owner of Sunbeam, described this emerging landscape in its annual report:</p> <p> “Most individual product categories in small appliancesˆhave seen an increasing incidence of retailer own-brands and of category specialists. When combined, these trends have worked to place extraordinary pressures on broadly-based brands such as Sunbeam.”</p> <p> Jack Lord, Breville Group CEO, agrees with this assessment, blaming house brands for soft sales in the company’s most recent annual report.</p> <p> “In Australia, the business was impacted in the first half by competitive changes in the retail landscape and an increasing house brand presence.”</p> <p> Subsrcibe to <a href="http://www.intermedia.com.au/print/news-item/appliance-retailer-magazine" target="_blank">Appliance Retailer magazine</a> to receive all the news, features and products from the appliance industry.</p> <p> The Big W & Abode Hall of Shame</p> <p> 25 May 2011: Abode 2000W Oscillating Fan Heater (NFE20O) is recalled because "the affected units could potentially cause smoke, fumes and fire".</p> <p> 10 October 2011: Abode Multi-Functional Blender (HY-6068A-1) is recalled because "if damaged, the rubber seal may possibly mix with food and pose an ingestion hazard".</p> <p> 12 March 2012: Abode 2000W Oscillating Fan Heater (NFE20O) is recalled again because "incorrect internal crimping may result in the wiring and crimp connector overheating, causing a fire hazard".</p> <p> 10 July 2012: Abode 3L Stainless Steel Deep Fryer (DF30BW) is recalled because "the handles may detach if the product is lifted while containing oil, possibly causing serious burn injuries if hot oil splashes on the user or bystanders".</p> <p> 9 August 2012: Abode Electric Blanket (BA111/211/212) is recalled because “the control cord may fatigue and cause an internal short circuit or overheating”.</p> <p> 13 December 2012: Abode Convection Oven (HG-A11) is recalled because “the internal wire connectors may come into contact with the plastic enclosure, creating a potential fire hazard”.</p> <p> 21 February 2013: Abode 2 Slice Toaster (KT-3023A) and a 4 Slice Toaster (KT-3083A) are recalled because “the product may pose an electric shock hazard to consumers”.</p> <p> Direct quotations sourced from <a href="http://www.recalls.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/952401" target="_blank">recalls.gov.au</a>.</p> Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:28:21 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/08/article/Domestic-Appliances-and-Ovo-dominate-Design-Award-entrants/BFTKDKJQSK.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/08/article/Domestic-Appliances-and-Ovo-dominate-Design-Award-entrants/BFTKDKJQSK.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> By Patrick Avenell</p> <p> A large number of leading suppliers of home appliances and consumer electronics are once again vying for recognition, as revealed by the entries to the 2013 Australian International Design Awards.</p> <p> De’Longhi, Breville, Jura and Fisher & Paykel are among the leading brands to enter appliances for this year’s awards, while BlueAnt, JBL, Pentax and Nokia have all entered the consumer electronics category.</p> <p> In an intriguing move, Philips has entered its Bodygroom Plus shaver and Sonicare FlexCare electronic toothbrush into the Fashion & Accessories category, placing it in competition with a smartphone case, a pair of spectacle and seven Ovo ‘lifestyle’ devices.</p> <p> Ovo is the most voluminous entrant in the Awards this year, with 37 entries across three categories, taking its approximate investment in the Awards to around $24,000 (excluding GST).</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; widows: 2; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://twitter.com/#!/Current_AR" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; word-spacing: 0px; font: 13px/17px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-transform: none; border-left: 0px; color: rgb(127,196,35); text-indent: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; white-space: normal; letter-spacing: normal; background-color: transparent; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; widows: 2; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> In addition to entering several cleaners and fans into the home appliance category, Dyson has also targeted the Architectural & Interiors category with its eye-catching new Airblade Tap and V hand dryers.</p> <p> The next stage in the Design Awards schedule is the assessments, which are being held in late April and early May, ahead of the announcement of finalists on Friday 3 May 2013. The Awards will be announced in a gala ceremony at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Sydney on Thursday 30 May 2013, as part of the Vivid Festival.</p> <p> In total, there were 257 entries across 16 categories. With 56 entries, Domestic Appliances comprises over 20 per cent of the entrants, making it comfortably the most competitive category for recognition.</p> <p> Number of Entrants by Award Category</p> <p> 56 - Domestic Appliances 38 - Sport and Leisure 21 - Commercial and Industrial 19 - Hardware and Building 18 - Consumer Electronics 18 - Automotive and Transport 16 - Furniture and Lighting 15 - Fashion and Accessories 14 - Housewares and Objects 13 - Medical and Scientific 7 - Architecture and Interiors 7 - Packaging and Graphics 5 - Babies and Children 5 - Commercial Service 3 - Not-For-Profit Service 2 - Digital and Online</p> <p> Domestic Appliance Entrants</p> <p> Asko iChef Oven BeefEater BUGG Braun Series 5 Electric Shaver Breville’s The Multi Chef Breville’s The Oracle Breville’s The Original ‘74 Breville’s The Thermal Pro Grill CoolTec Electric Shaver Delonghi Black Designer Art Inbuilt Oven Delonghi Primadonna XS Fully Automatic Coffee Machine Delonghi Icona Vintage Anita Dyson DC47 Dyson DC50 Dyson Digital Slim Mk2 Dyson Hot + Cool AM05 Everdure E Churrasco GWA Epure Zone Fisher & Paykel ActiveSmart Fridge Fisher & Paykel Companion range Fisher & Paykel 60cm Built-in Oven Fisher & Paykel 90 cm Gas on Steel Cooktop Fisher & Paykel CleanSmart™ 10kg TopLoad Washing Machine Gasmate Ignite BBQ Gecko Bug Zappers JURA Automatic Frother JURA ENA Micro 1 Kenwood Mulitpro Sense Food Processor LotusGrill BBQ Masha by Prep Miele S8 UniQ Nespresso U Omega OO7A1X 75cm built-in Pyrolytic Oven Panasonic Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner Philips Air Fryer Philips Jamie Oliver HomeCooker range Philips Lumea Precision Plus Philips PerfectCare Aqua Philips Performer Pro Philips SAECO Intelia Metal One Touch Cappuccino Scandinavian Life Lightair Stihl MS 251C-BEQ RD3 SodaStream Australia SodaStream Source Sunbeam Café Series Espresso Machine Sunbeam Café Series Food Processor Sunbeam Cafe Series Variable Temperature Kettle Sunbeam Maestro 2 Slice Toaster Sunbeam Planetary Mixmaster Sunbeam Pro Glide Plus Steam Generator The Ziegler & Brown Twin Grill Thermomix UltraCaptic bagless vacuum cleaner by Electrolux Group Design Small Appliance Vintec NOIR 170 bottle Wine Cabinet Westinghouse 90cm Freestanding Cooker Zip HydroTap SPARKLING</p> <p> Consumer Electronics Entrants</p> <p> Blackmagic Cinema Camera BlueAnt Q3 Premium Smartphone Earpiece BlueAnt Ribbon Stereo Bluetooth Streamer iiNet Budii HEX3 AppTag HD HEX3 JaJa Pressure Sensitive Stylus Hive security camera iDECT ECLIPSE 8035 Digital Cordless Phone System with Answering Machine JBL PowerUp Wireless Charging Speaker for Nokia Kobo Arc Kobo Glo MOD Live Heads-up Display for alpine goggles Nokia Wireless Charging Plate Pentax MX-1 Pure Jongo S3 RØDE iXY Native Union Switch Xped introduces GenX, the Smarthome Starter Pack</p> Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:15:40 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/08/article/LG-unveils-new-category-and-marketing-team-for-appliances-and-entertainment/TCUTKAEDJI.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/08/article/LG-unveils-new-category-and-marketing-team-for-appliances-and-entertainment/TCUTKAEDJI.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> LG Electronics has today announced a treble of new appointees to its product and marketing teams. The new recruits are Jennifer Osborne (home appliances marketing manager), Natalie Shaw (home appliances category manager) and Bruce Leigh (home entertainment category manager).</p> <p> The Korean manufacturer has one of the most ambitious product road maps in the industry, with new kitchen and laundry appliances, floorcare units and the roll out of Ultra High Definition and OLED TVs expected.</p> <p> Lambro Skropidis, marketing general manager, welcomed the newcomers.</p> <p> “We are pleased to welcome three talented new hires to LG Australia,” he said. “With a wealth of industry experience between them, I believe they will be huge asset to our Home Appliance and Home Entertainment categories.”</p> <p style="text-align: center"> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" href="http://www.current.com.au/subscribe/index.php" 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/13px arial, helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; 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; widows: 2; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter</a> <a data-bitly-type="bitly_hover_card" 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; widows: 2; orphans: 2; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; outline: invert none 0px" target="_blank">Follow Current.com.au on Twitter</a></p> <p> Osborne’s background is in home cleaning products, having previously marketed the Vanish, Harpic and Airwick brands while at Reckitt Bensicker. Before that, Osborne worked as a analyst at Lehman Brothers and Bear Stearns.</p> <p> “I’m truly looking forward to working in an incredibly fast paced environment and becoming an integral part of a leading global brand,” she said.</p> <p> Joining LG from the pharmaceuticals industry, Shaw was previously the consumer brand manager for Novartis, owner of brands such as Lamisil, Voltaren and Ritalin.</p> <p> “LG’s premium home appliances enable it to compete comfortably in an extremely competitive market. I’ll be working hard to ensure we achieve the position as market leader in each of the home appliance categories as well as overall leader in the market,” Shaw said.</p> <p> Formerly the brand manager for beauty and grooming at P&G, Leigh has big ambitions in his new role.</p> <p> “I’m thrilled to be working with a company renowned globally for creating innovative products which cater for consumer needs,” he said. “I hope to play a key role in ensuring that LG becomes the undisputed number one in the consumer electronics category.” Œ</p> Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:34:04 +1000 http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/08/article/Space--Walkmans--Bowie--Sony/TPPTNBIHIA.html http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/08/article/Space--Walkmans--Bowie--Sony/TPPTNBIHIA.html Current.com.au Correspondent <p> Following on from UnderCurrent's <a href="http://www.current.com.au/2013/04/05/article/Samsungs-rarely-bearable-washing-machine---/AUZBQJAJVZ.html" target="_blank">recent hat doff to Samsung</a>, another has spotted another TVC that originally bypassed its (apparently decreasing) eagle eye.</p> <p> Here is Sony's new global ad for the Xperia Z smartphone. It features three things UnderCurrent loves: space exploration, 1980s Walkmans and the music of David Bowie:</p> <p> </p> <p> UnderCurrent says 'well done team Sony' and asks any other company with an old-ish TVC to get in touch as it's clearly the season for catching up!</p> Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:40:15 +1000