
Hosted by The Intermedia Group · ENGLISH

James Wells talks to Alice Keupper, Head of Sustainability at Winning Group. We explore sustainability initiatives from a retail perspective and how Winning is working to be a leader in the space while looking to share its insights and learnings with the wider industry.

We're back and we're talking to Kurt Hegvold, GM of Electrolux Australia and New Zealand. Kurt talks about what's new at Electrolux, offers frank insights into their SAP ERP transition, and talks about the value to the industry of the CoFoSS body and why getting sustainability right is crucial to a diverse Australian appliance retail landscape.

We speak to Haig Kayserian, general manager of digiDirect about the retailer’s expansion into broader consumer electronics categories beyond cameras and imaging products.He discusses the re-opening of digiDirect’s flagship Melbourne store including various upgrades and enhancements, as well as plans for future store re-fits and new store openings.Haig then explains the launch of the pre-loved digiSeconds category, enabling customers to take advantage of quality second-hand gadgets at more affordable prices.

We speak to Angus McDonald, CEO of Barbeques Galore about the major trends in the BBQ market and recent shifts in consumer spending behaviour.He discusses how the business has adapted to changing market conditions by investing in enhanced order management capabilities and fulfilment, a new customer relationship management system and new ecommerce platform.He then previews some of the projects in the pipeline for Barbeques Galore over the next 12 months including new store openings and refurbishments, as well as an ongoing evolution of the product range and loyalty program.Angus McDonald will be speaking at the Online Retailer Conference & Expo in July 2022.

In episode 25 of the Appliance Retailer Podcast, we speak to Sven Lindell, chief digital & marketing officer for Winning Group about the recent launch of online retail destination, Andoo and expansion into new categories including furniture and bedding.He discusses the recent acquisition of designer furniture, lighting and textiles company, Spence & Lyda and what the deal means for the business and its customers.Lindell then shares details about the creation of umbrella brand, Winning and how it will complement other Winning Appliances showrooms around the country.

In episode 24 of the Appliance Retailer Podcast, we speak to Karen Powell, head of ECOVACS Australia and New Zealand about the home cleaning robotics category in Australia and how the brand is performing.She shares details about the new ECOVACS flagship robotic vacuum cleaner, the DEEBOT X1 OMNI and why the launch is so important to the brand and the broader industry.Powell discusses the key technology inclusions when it comes to suction power, health and hygiene, voice assistance, as well as the aesthetics in collaboration with Jacob Jensen Design.With a price tag of $2,499, Powell explains the importance of strong retailer relationships to successfully launch a new product like the DEEBOT X1 OMNI.

We speak to Anthony Fletcher, director of sales at Schweigen about how the company is responding to the increasing trend towards silent rangehoodsHe discusses the growing popularity of black appliances and in response, Schweigen has released a series of six undermount black rangehoods in 600mm, 900mm and 1200mm widths.Fletcher then shares details about the new game changing Schweigen SteelFlex ducting with a Shirikon Firemesh finish for added strength and flexibility, and lifetime guarantee. The ducting can be sold with any rangehood but is designed to increase brand awareness for Schweigen.Schweigen has also launched a new home ventilation system to help remove odours from various rooms in the home, including the kitchen, laundry and bathroom.

In episode 22 of the Appliance Retailer Podcast, we speak to Brad Reed, head of marketing for B2B business solutions at LG Electronics Australia about shifts in consumer behaviour within the IT category, including significant uptake in the premium monitor segment, and what it means for retailers.He discusses LG’s investment in collaborative working technology and range of cloud-based solutions in a market that is expected to grow by double digits over the next 12 months.Reed then shares a preview of what’s in the pipeline for the gaming and computing categories in 2022 as LG remains on the cutting edge of innovation in terms of processor speeds, chipsets and software to deliver an optimal user experience.He also explains why retailers should have dedicated in-store displays to showcase their gaming monitor line-up and provide the opportunity for consumers to experience refresh rates, colour reproduction and sound first-hand, to maximise sales.LG is focused on improving in-store merchandising with displays that better communicate key features and unique selling points, as well as more regular store visits to share information with floor staff.

In episode 21 of the Appliance Retailer Podcast, we speak to Hayat Horma, director of shipping at eBay Australia about eBay’s new local fulfilment program in partnership with global logistics experts, Orange Connex.She discusses the key benefits of the program including faster delivery, more competitive rates, enhanced seller protection and full eBay integrations.Hayat then shares her thoughts on the shipping landscape, the importance of returns as part of delivering a truly seamless e-commerce experience and the increasing adoption of Buy Now, Pay Later.

Takeaways: Dr. Morten Boyer elucidates GfK's evolution into a data-centric organization, emphasizing the significance of actionable insights. The podcast underscores the dramatic rise of online sales, which have surged by 32% globally in recent years. A notable trend towards premium products has emerged, with brands valued 50% above average experiencing 43% growth. The introduction of GfK's AI-supported platform, gfknewron, revolutionizes data-driven decision-making processes. Understanding market performance in a global context is essential for businesses to identify future opportunities. Companies must continuously refine their data strategies to adapt to ongoing changes in consumer behavior and market dynamics.