By Matthew Henry
SYDNEY: Panasonic has responded to rumours circulating in that it is leaving the microwave category by increasing its commitment to the Australian market with a new range of inverter models launching today.
Current.com.au this morning received news from one of Panasonic’s competitors that rumours were circulating among retailers that the brand was on the verge of withdrawing from the category.
In a statement to Current.com.au this afternoon, Panasonic consumer electronics director, Paul Reid, denied the rumours and said the company is in fact about to expand its offering in the market.
“Panasonic is one of Australia’s favourite microwave brands and will continue to market its wide range of attractive and innovative products in this country,” he said.
“The company’s commitment is underscored by today’s release of six new electronic inverter microwaves, the latest additions to the Panasonic 2007/2008 range.”
Reid said Panasonic plans to introduce additional models during the coming months, as well as launching a new promotion for retailers throughout the Christmas period.
Just minutes after dealing with the rumours, Panasonic released details of six new models hitting the Australian market today, consisting of mid- and compact sized electronic inverter microwave ovens.
The range features European styling and is available in a choice of fashionable colours including stainless steel, metallic silver or white, with capacities ranging from 25 litres to 32 litres.
Prices range from RRP $197 for the compact 25 litre NN-ST557W, which is just 30cm high and 55cm wide, to RRP $329 for the 32 litre NN-ST677M.