By James Wells

SYDNEY: Omega Appliances, one of the first European cooking brands released on to the Australian market 20 years ago, has announced a brand relaunch which incorporates a new range of over 60 products sourced from Italy.

In a statement released this morning, Omega will progressively launch 14 ovens and 31 cooktops as well as new refrigerators, rangehoods, microwaves, dishwashers, sinks and taps over the next three months.

The first of these new products released on to the market include two 60cm stainless steel multifunction ovens (RRP $899 and RRP $999) and Australia’s first stainless steel portable induction cooktop (RRP $199).

According to Omega Appliances product manager, Mark Warden, the new brand positioning will seek to deliver enhanced performance and style based on the company’s 20-year heritage in the marketplace.

“The new range exhibits superb styling, excellent performance and unique for the mid market – innovation,” said Warden, who joined Omega in April 2005 after working with the brand’s Wagga Wagga distributor – KJ Wardens for 20 years.

“The Australian market will see concepts from Omega that are genuine firsts – five burner hobs with the most exciting and practical configuration, ceramic hobs with dedicated paella zones and 45cm ovens. After that there will be an ongoing commitment to continue being first to market with new technology and innovative design.”

Other innovative products include a product called ‘The Box’ – a 90cm cooktop which features a traditional 60cm four burner cooktop on the left as well as an integrated wok burner.

An enormous 1100 litre commercial style stainless steel refrigerator called the ‘Big Chill’ will be released as well as taps with built-in temperature and flow controls.

In portable appliances, Omega has launched a microwave oven with an integrated toaster, which is designed to appeal to student and aged-care dwellings, studio flats and granny flats.

Omega has also announced that the brand’s showroom, located at its head office at East Botany in southern Sydney, will be redesigned and renovated to reflect the new image of the brand. A trade night for retailers is planned to celebrate the opening of the new showroom before the end of June.