A Viewpoint from Will Jones of BHETA:
“Exclusively Electrical was originally a spin off show from Exclusively Housewares, but it is getting bigger and bigger – and more influential – in its own right. With the Exclusively shows now only a month away and with more and more independent electrical retailers attending year on year, it’s great news that the show organisers have announced an agreement with Sirius, one of the leading buying groups in the electrical appliance industry.
“Sirius is to hold its own convention at the show, so many more small domestic appliance retailers look set to benefit from the promotional offers and the trends advice available. The Sirius convention will be staged on the Atrium level of the Gallery Hall above Exclusively Electrical and Sirius members will be offered a unique Exclusively hospitality package including complimentary accommodation, refreshments and an invitation to the famous summer party.
“For a flavour of what to expect in addition to the very latest products from the leading suppliers, here are some of the Exclusively Electrical trends advice as provided by trend forecasting company, Scarlet Opus. Scarlet Opus numbers both Le Creuset and Lakeland among its clients so its credentials are excellent when it comes to spotting the looks, style and feel that will have consumers reaching for their credit and debit cards. For the 2018 show briefing, Scarlet Opus has supplied an overview of all the design trends for this autumn through to the early 2020s.”
Here’s a flavour of what’s coming up soon:
Trend One
Eco 2.0
This is a sophisticated version of the original green concept. It’s craft with a conscience; natural, sustainable materials and recycled materials for a rustic look that has been made slick – in natural colours. Rural chic if you will. The trend also acknowledges manmade contributions to this made-over green. When it comes to energy and connectivity, it’s all about clever, easily adjustable controls, so as not to waste resources.
Trend Two
Clarity
Recognising a need for simplification and the personal choice which filters out the unnecessary. It’s about experience rather than products. Relaxing colours such as neutrals, pastels, sun-bleached, this is about ‘me time’. Products should be easy to move inside or outside, and finishes should be easy to change in terms of colour or texture.
Trend Three (including Christmas)
Imperfect Beauty
The Scandinavian trends that have been popular will be replaced with Japanese philosophy celebrating the beauty in repair. Instead of hiding breakages and mends, the idea is that design celebrates them with luxurious precious metal repairs of imperfections.
“The value of such insights goes without saying for everyone in the industry. Steve Jones, Sirius Group Commercial Director said, “Due to the success of Exclusively Electrical over the past few years, we feel it presents a great environment for our members to see what SDA and housewares are available to them. The event is supported by a number of our Approved Suppliers and it will be great to get our members along to discuss opportunities.”
Visit Exclusively Electricals website
For more details contact the BHETA Member Services Team on 0121 237 1130
Source: BHETA May 2018
May 2018