Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM JANUARY 2015 40 Founded in 1948, SMEG is one of Italy's leading home appliance manufacturers. Over the last few years, SMEG has successfully made its way across the world, and to the U.S., where it continues to grow and expand by launching new products, and creating strategic alliances with retail partners and North American distributors, as well as by participating in special events and trade shows across the U.S. and Canada. SMEG launched its U.S. brand in 2007 with the opening of a subsidiary, SMEG USA, and its prestigious showroom in the A&D Building in the heart of New York City. In 2014, SMEG USA effectively doubled its distribution network to extend to both coasts of North America, and everything in-between, adding a total of six distribution centers, including in Phoenix, Arizona, and Vancouver, British Columbia. The expanding territory represents a triumph for the continued growth of the SMEG brand, and is a testament to its expertise. Today, SMEG USA continues to expand its brand reach in the U.S., and with the assistance of their top-tier distribution network, SMEG is satisfying the needs of their growing consumer base nationwide. By continuously dedicating effort to innovation with a strong focus on technology, research, and creativity, SMEG has strengthened their brand, allowing them to create truly iconic pieces. Recently, SMEG products have appeared in several television ads and movies, including a new Molson Canadian Beer commercial, and TWC- Dimension's "Paddington" movie. With the help of renowned architects and designers, SMEG has developed countless award-winning and innovative designs, from the first "slim" dishwasher, to the design of their new cooktops, and the iconic FAB28 retro-style refrigerator. Over the past few months, SMEG has successfully launched several new products in the American market, including the high-style THE SECRET TO SMEG'S SUCCESS? THE RIGHT MIX OF STYLE, INNOVATION, AND HISTORY. "Victoria" 36" range with matching ventilation hood, and their extremely popular FAB5 and FAB28 retro fridge lines that recently expanded, adding two vibrant new colors to the selection of FAB28s, white and yellow, as well as the highly-anticipated FAB28 Union Jack flag design. In October, SMEG received national media attention with the launch of their Small Domestic Appliances. The collection offers homeowners Italian-infused style, and creatively colorful toasters, stand mixers, blenders, and kettles. The new product line was featured at a star-studded press event held in New York City, which was attended by luminaries of the art, design, business, and celebrity worlds. SMEG is proud to be growing its retail presence in brick and mortar outlets across North America. They will be launching a new retail space in Chicago Merchandise Mart LuxeHome, the world's largest collection of premiere boutiques for home building and renovation, later this year. Currently, their products are sold through leading retailers across the United States and Canada, including West Elm, Hudson's Bay, and Williams-Sonoma. Throughout 2014, SMEG gained high visibility through exhibits and trade shows they've attended across North America. More exhibits are planned for this year, such as appearances at the 2015 Architectural Digest Home Design show in New York, the International Home + Housewares Show in Chicago, the Interior Design Show in Toronto, WestEdge in Santa Monica, and more. There is much excitement surrounding the SMEG brand, both present and future. As the company continues to grow its brand in North America, and expand due to their innovation, style, and creativity, SMEG's iconic products and designs are surely ones to watch. For more information, visit www.smegusa.com. '50s-style SMEG SDAs

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