|
|
|
| . |
|
|
Innovation, quality and design is the name of the game for Electrolux, one of the world's leaders in the home and professional appliances sector. In the Netherlands, dynamic management has made the group's Dutch subsidiary a strong partner in its drive to make a palpable difference in our homes and work environments.
Appliance manufacturers today use innovative technologies not only to improve our quality of life but also surround us with beautiful design. The Electrolux Group, an international leader in this sector, has committed itself to these ideals. Its products, which come in a wide spectrum of colors and shapes, include washing machines refrigerators, cookers, vacuum cleaners, chain saws and lawnmowers. Every year more than 55 million new Electrolux products are sold around the world under various well-known brand names. This philosophy is evident in the Netherlands. "When the local business community and residents speak of Electrolux Netherlands, I want them to say this is a dedicated, innovative organization, contributing to the overall culture of the group," says the local subsidiary's energetic managing director, Alexander Blom. "My wish is to highlight the Dutch operation as an integral contributor to the overall sales of the consumer durables market. Of our sales, 85 percent fall into this category, while the remaining 15 percent is accounted for by the professional products market sold to hotels, restaurants, offices and hospitals," he says. "This market enhances our profile here and it is very important to us," he continues. "During a stay at one of the many Dutch hotels, you will probably find that the laundry service, the mini bar and the food prepared in the kitchen may very well have one thing in common - the use of Electrolux appliances. We derive genuine satisfaction from knowing our products are used in many commercial environments, and it adds to us making a meaningful contribution to our society." "The main reason for our success in the Dutch market is that we are widely spread out in our product range," Blom explains. "Our brands are well-defined and extremely profitable due to their high quality. Another advantage is that we can 'play' with these brands, deciding when and where to distribute them. Being selective about our distribution makes us strong." Constant innovation to cater to different customers highlights the company's mission. Blom comments: "Our strengths lie in the consumer market. We spend a lot of time and energy on our unique innovative technology; and there are no limitations to engineering possibilities - this results in such products as "talking" washing machines, computer controlled kitchens, robot lawn mowers and vacuum cleaners. Creativity promotes progress, and we remain constantly aware of the need to innovate." This concern for innovation, coupled with an awareness of the current needs of a rapidly changing society, led already in 1993 - as the first manufacturer - to the introduction of a complete range of refrigerators that eliminated ozone-depleting substances. "A major part of our R&D is devoted to conservation and we are developing a number of new products in line with this strategy," he points out. "In the Netherlands in 2003, the first Water museum will be opened. We - as sponsor - will then show the consumer our thoughts about water management with a concept of water-recycling washing machines and dishwashers." "Our strong brand name is a tremendous advantage to us. My ambition is for further growth, and our Dutch employees are doing a very good job. There is always more to do, but we are definitely on the right track."
|
 |
Electrolux Netherlands Managing Director Alexander Blom