In our Influencers series run in conjunction with Appliance Retailer magazine, Current.com.au speaks to the industry leaders, big brands and well-known identities that have helped shape the electrical retail industry in 2013.

Jamey Colbert, managing director of Eurolinx (supplier of ILVE and De Dietrich), says that macro-economic conditions are likely to give consumers an impetus to spend this year, and that suppliers will meet that demand with products that are more technologically advanced than ever before.

How has the first half of 2013 been for your business?

Eurolinx have seen growth in new product categories that our leading brand ILVE has not traditionally been associated with in the past. Overall, we have had strong sales in the first half and have an exciting second half of the year to come as we relaunch premium appliance brand De Dietrich.

What are your predictions for the second half of the year?

We see a positive turnaround in consumer confidence, resulting in a long, drawn-out election year. This will, in turn, lead to increased consumer spending in all retail sectors. Also the RBA's recent rate cut will put more money into the pockets of consumers, meaning we may see more and more consumers renovating or thinking of renovating their houses in the next 12 months.

What opportunities do you see for the electrical retailing industry?

Technology is increasingly becoming important to the consumer in the kitchen so there are many opportunities for growth in this sector. Automated ovens, preloaded recipes into iPhone-style oven interfaces, and the integration of so called ‘Smart appliances’ working in harmony with products are all exciting prospects for the electrical appliance industry, some of which we will be exploring.

What threats are currently present in the industry?

The recent fall of the Australian dollar will put pricing pressure on imported goods at a time when margins are already under pressure from increased competition new to the market. The Australian market also faces brand saturation given the relatively small population, which is why it is important to have a unique point of difference and offer a high quality product.

What is your favourite product of 2013 so far?

The ILVE pizza oven, which can cook up perfect pizza in less than three minutes, is absolutely my favourite product of 2013!