Retail Observer

August 2021

The Retail Observer is an industry leading magazine for INDEPENDENT RETAILERS in Major Appliances, Consumer Electronics and Home Furnishings

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RETAILOBSERVER.COM AUGUST 2021 52 W ay back in 1970 the band Chicago had a Top Ten hit with the tune "Color My World." Now, more than half a century later, Samsung and LG Electronics are taking the title to heart with new kitchen appliance collections that can be customized to suit consumers' individual preferences for color and finish. Samsung was first out of the gate last year with its modular Bespoke refrigerator which is offered with eight different interchangeable panels, including champagne rose steel, white glass, sky blue glass and navy steel. Now, the company's U.S. arm, Samsung Electronics America, is extending the concept to a complete suite of kitchen appliances, along with floor, air, and clothing care products. The expanded kitchen lineup includes Samsung's front control slide-in range, matching over-the- range (OTR) microwave oven and coordinating linear wash dishwasher, along with 4-Door Flex, Flex Column and bottom freezer refrigerator configurations. All will be available later this year, Samsung said. Besides the selection of solid-color finishes, the company is also collaborating with popular artists around the world to design limited- edition door panels for its fridges. In the U.S., artist Andy Rementer has created an exclusive, contemporary design for 4-Door Flex panels which is available now direct from the vendor. Outside the kitchen, Samsung is applying the custom concept to its Bespoke AirDresser, Cube Air Purifier and Jet Cordless Stick Vacuum. The clothing refresher cabinet is now available in a crystal mirror finish; the air purifier will soon be offered in gray or deep green, along with an optional herringbone grill pattern; and the stick vac will be available in a range of new but not-yet-announced color options. "We've seen a tremendous response to our Bespoke refrigerators, which families love because they come in an array of changeable colors and materials that fit any interior décor," said John Herrington, senior VP/GM of home appliances at Samsung Electronics America. "By expanding our Bespoke offerings, families can now bring their personal style to the rest of the kitchen – and the rest of the home." Not to be outdone, LG Electronics is launching an LG Objet Collection whose modern, minimalist designs are "blurring the line between state-of-the-art home appliances and designer furnishings," the company said. The kitchen grouping features stainless steel finishes in three colors– green, silver and matte black – and a glass finish available in mint, pink, beige or silver. LG described the platform as "a compelling way for customers to express their unique personalities tailored to suit personal tastes and the existing décor." Introduced to the trade as "Furniture Concept Appliances" at last January's virtual CES trade show, the collection will launch first in China with a fridge and freezer pair before expanding to key markets throughout Asia and Europe. No word yet on a U.S. debut. "The launch of the LG Objet Collection in international markets marks the beginning of an era of the personalized appliance," said Lyu Jae- cheol, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. "Offering understated design and different options of materials and colors to choose from, LG's stylish innovations help make it possible for consumers to create a space that truly reflects their unique sensibilities." Alan Wolf is Senior Communications Specialist for AVB/ BrandSource, the nation's leading merchandising and marketing co-op for independent appliance, home furnishings and consumer tech dealers. Alan Wolf Appliance Trends RO SAMSUNG, LG LOOK TO CUSTOMIZE THE KITCHEN Artist Andy Rementer has created a contemporary design for Samsung's 4-Door Flex refrigerator panels. LG's colorful Objet Collection will make its debut in China.

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