New products contribute to sales performance.
Betta Home Living has experienced growth in 2016 so far, although effects of drought and the mining downturn have hurt some areas. CEO Graeme Cunningham pictured told Appliance Retailer about his predictions for the latter half of the year, the importance of customer service and the latest cooking design trends.
How has the first half of 2016 been for your business?
The first half has shown growth over 2015 overall with some categories doing particularly well. The growth varies across the country with some regions feeling the effects of drought as well as the downturn in mining.
What are your predictions for the second half of the year?
We are expecting trade, in general, to continue along the same lines as the first half. The outcomes of the upcoming election will no doubt influence consumer confidence which will be critical to the results. Well executed new product launches, coupled with the Olympics should see us perform well.
What opportunities do you see for the electrical retailing industry?
Innovative new products are the lifeblood of our industry so we look to our suppliers to continue to invest in R&D. This presents a great opportunity for supplier and retailer alike. I also believe there is opportunity for electrical retailers to lift their customer service levels to that of other retailers. We are focusing on this in our business and our recent award as winner of the 2015 Roy Morgan customer satisfaction award recognises this.
What is your favourite product for 2016 so far?
No specific product stand outs, however the integration of the latest design trends and new technology in the cooking category is enhancing the offers to consumers.