KITCHENS
SIRIUS BUYING GROUP UNDERLINE KEY 2022 APPLIANCE TRENDS
Sirius Buying Group , major buying group in the electrical appliance and kitchen retail sectors predicts a kitchen renaissance in 2022-3 , as the kitchen market bounces back following record movement in the residential sector .
Managing Director at Sirius , Steve Jones says , “ We have been closely tracking the latest forecasts so we can best advise our retailers as they enter a business-critical time . UK consumers are naturally concerned following news of a 54 % rise in the energy price cap from April and the Bank of England predicting that inflation will hit 7.25 % this spring . With this in mind , we must anticipate that homeowners will want to spend their cash wisely at all price points and that they will be keen to safeguard their purchases with extended warranties . A key trend this year is the importance of technical innovation throughout the market with evergreater functionality and ease of use highly desirable . As people have appreciated the importance of kitchen living solutions due to increased time at home and the desire for flexible working , the potential for product upgrades and replacements is set to accelerate , with the kitchen studio market well-placed to sell the benefits of creating bespoke spaces with all-singing , all-dancing integrated appliances . As a result , we can see consumers are set to invest more in their appliances in line with their desired lifestyle . This enables independents to position themselves as kitchen lifestyle consultants as discerning customers want inspiration and flexibility to enhance their wellbeing rather than prescriptive and overly technical recommendations . The bonus is that this approach provides an opportunity for sales in higher ticket items , resulting in greater cash margin for the independent retailer . The kitchen is now regarded as a gateway to wellbeing and connection so smart tech and wellness are key . As always , independents are perfectly poised to tailor their sales to the benefit of their customers to not only meet but surpass user requirements .”
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