By Patrick Avenell
SYDNEY: The nominations for the 2009 Electrical Retailers Awards (ERAs) have been announced, with LG Electronics and Panasonic leading the field with seven nominations each. Close behind are Samsung, with six nominations, and Fisher & Paykel and Sony, each with four.
The ERAs are voted for annually by retailers and retail groups, and as such, they represent the highest recognition for brands in this industry. In total, 46 different brands have received nominations across the 17 award categories.
Although the big names may be chuffed with their multiple nominations, particular credit must go to some of the less well-known brands, who put in exceptional performances during 2008 to get a nod in their respective categories. These include Rinnai, who are up for Best Heating; Asko, nominated as Best Dishwasher Supplier; and Volta, who will be taking on some of big guns in Best Floorcare.
A number of categories stand out as being particularly exciting this year. One of these is Best Small Kitchen Appliance, which sees some of the most competitive brands going head-to-head for the prize.
Last year’s winner, Sunbeam, will be looking to defend its title against premium Italian brand De’Longhi, the Salton-distributed Russell Hobbs and stablemates Breville and Kambrook. The recent appointment of ex-Sunbeam legend Jack Lord at Breville only adds to the competition in this category.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Sofitel Wentworth, in Sydney, on Friday 17 April 2009. For more information on this, please send me an email.
To see the full list of nominees, click here.