In a significant turn of events in the global M&A landscape, talks between U.S. appliance giant Whirlpool Corporation and private equity powerhouse Advent International regarding the sale of Whirlpool’s India unit have reportedly collapsed. According to sources cited by Reuters, the deal—valued at up to $1 billion—was derailed due to disagreements over valuation.
Advent International had emerged as the leading contender to acquire a 31% stake in Whirlpool of India Ltd (NSE: WHIR.NS), a move that would have triggered a mandatory open offer for a controlling stake under Indian securities regulations. The acquisition was seen as a strategic play by Advent to deepen its footprint in the Indian consumer durables market, leveraging Whirlpool’s established brand presence and distribution network.
However, despite advanced negotiations, the two parties were unable to bridge the valuation gap. The breakdown underscores the challenges global investors face in aligning expectations with multinational corporations, especially in high-growth but price-sensitive markets like India.
Whirlpool of India, a subsidiary of Michigan-based Whirlpool Corp (NYSE: WHR), has been a prominent player in the Indian home appliance sector, known for its refrigerators, washing machines, and kitchen appliances. The potential divestment was part of Whirlpool’s broader strategy to streamline its global operations and focus on core markets.
While this deal may have faltered, industry watchers suggest that interest in India’s consumer appliance sector remains robust, driven by rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and a growing appetite for premium home solutions. It remains to be seen whether Whirlpool will seek other suitors or recalibrate its strategy for the Indian market.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
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Asurion to Acquire Domestic & General in $2.74 Billion Deal
Asurion has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Domestic & General (D&G), one of the UK and Europe’s largest appliance care providers.
Founded over 100 years ago, Domestic & General has built a trusted reputation in appliance protection, supported by a repair network of approximately 25,000 independent engineers and a customer base of 6.8 million subscribers. Following the acquisition, D&G will continue operating under its own brand as a dedicated business unit within Asurion.
Latest Buzz in Europe’s Domestic Appliances Market: Sustainability, Smart Tech, and Steady Growth
As we wrap up 2025, the European domestic appliances market is humming with innovation and adaptation. From eco-friendly regulations shaking up dryer sales to Chinese giants planting roots in the heart of the continent, the industry is navigating economic headwinds while chasing greener, smarter horizons. At Whitegoods Now, we’re keeping our finger on the pulse of whitegoods and home tech—because whether you’re a retailer stocking shelves or a homeowner eyeing that next upgrade, these trends could redefine your shopping list. Let’s dive into the freshest news shaping the market.
Market Growth: A Steady Climb Amid Challenges
Europe’s household appliances sector is no stranger to resilience. Despite macroeconomic jitters like inflation and supply chain tweaks, forecasts paint a picture of consistent expansion. The market is projected to hit €115.8 billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 2.33% through 2033. Major appliances—like fridges, washers, and ovens—remain the heavy hitters, clocking in at a €60 billion volume this year, while the overall segment eyes a 4.10% annual bump through 2030.
Zooming in, the broader appliances landscape (including small gadgets) is valued at $222.69 billion for 2025, with a 4.83% CAGR pushing it to $324.68 billion by 2033. Western Europe’s outlook for 2026? A modest value growth, fueled by replacements and first-time buyers, though Chinese brands are ramping up with affordable, feature-packed options that nibble at legacy players’ share. Online sales are the real star here, snagging 38.9% of revenues and growing fastest—think 45% for small appliances in early 2025. If you’re browsing for a new dishwasher, e-commerce’s convenience is clearly winning.
Hot-Off-the-Press Developments: Mergers, Launches, and Regulations
2025 has been a year of bold moves. In April, Chinese powerhouse Midea snapped up Küppersbusch’s parent company, beefing up its premium footprint in Europe and pressuring German stalwarts like Bosch with sharp pricing and tech smarts. Fast-forward to June: Haier Europe teamed up with Hungary’s Klima Kft to launch an R&D hub in Budapest, signaling deeper Eastern European investments in innovation. This isn’t just about factories—it’s about tailoring smart home tech for local tastes.
On the product front, Electrolux AB dropped a smart laundry lineup in July 2024 (with ripples into 2025), featuring UltraQuick cycles that zap stains in under an hour—perfect for busy urbanites. But the big regulatory hammer? A July 2025 EU ban on sub-A-class vented and condenser dryers, steering shoppers toward energy-sipping heat-pump models. This could spike demand for efficient whites, saving households on bills while cutting emissions. Meanwhile, across the pond in logistics, a September China-Europe freight train milestone highlighted surging appliance exports to Russia, underscoring Europe’s reliance on Asian supply chains.
Trends to Watch: Green, Connected, and Compact
Sustainability isn’t a buzzword—it’s law and lifestyle. With EU mandates pushing A-class efficiency, expect more hybrid appliances blending energy savings with IoT smarts. Small appliances are exploding too, at a 5.5% CAGR through 2030, thanks to compact, multi-taskers for Europe’s rising single-person households (hello, air fryers and robot vacs). Smart ecosystems? They’re everywhere, from app-controlled ovens to voice-activated washers, with online channels amplifying their reach—27% of major appliance sales in H1 2025.
Value hunting is rife: Over 40% of Western European consumers switched to cheaper brands this year, prioritizing core perks like energy efficiency over flashy extras. Eastern Europe leads in e-commerce adoption (37% of major sales online), while trade-ins and rentals gain traction for big-ticket items. And don’t sleep on health-focused niches—post-pandemic, appliances with antimicrobial tech and air purification are trending.
What’s Next for Whitegoods Enthusiasts?
As 2026 looms, the market’s poised for smarter, greener evolution, but affordability will be king. Retailers, stock up on those heat-pump dryers; consumers, scout online deals for energy-efficient gems. At Whitegoods Now, we’re optimistic—Europe’s appliances scene is evolving to make homes more efficient and fun. Got thoughts on these shifts? Drop a comment below, or browse our latest reviews for the must-have models.
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Whirlpool Reshapes Global Footprint: Reduces Stake in India, Halts Production in Argentina
Whirlpool Corporation is recalibrating its international operations with two major moves in India and Argentina, signaling a shift in its global appliance strategy.
📉 Stake in Whirlpool India Drops to 40%
On November 27, Whirlpool Corporation announced it had reduced its ownership in Whirlpool of India Limited from 51% to approximately 40%. The change follows the sale of 14.26 million equity shares by its wholly owned subsidiary, Whirlpool Mauritius Limited, in an on-market transaction.
While Whirlpool retains a significant minority stake, the move suggests a strategic realignment in one of Asia’s fastest-growing appliance markets. Whirlpool India remains a key player in refrigeration, laundry, and kitchen appliances, with a strong retail and service network across the subcontinent.
🛑 Production Ceases at Argentina’s Pilar Laundry Plant
Just a day earlier, on November 26, Whirlpool Argentina announced it will cease manufacturing operations at its Pilar Laundry Plant. Opened in 2022 with a $52 million investment, the facility was designed to produce 300,000 high-capacity washing machines annually and aimed to become Argentina’s largest appliance exporter—primarily serving Latin American markets like Brazil.
Despite the shutdown, Whirlpool confirmed it will maintain its commercial and after-sales service operations in Argentina, ensuring continued availability of products, accessories, and spare parts. The company emphasized its long-standing presence in the country, where it has operated for over 35 years.
Kärcher Unveils Two New Cleaning Innovations for 2025
Kärcher is set to launch two new products by the end of 2025: the SE 2 Spot Care stain remover and the VCH 4 UVClean mattress vacuum.
The SE 2 Spot Care is a compact device designed for fast, targeted stain removal. Its injection-extraction system sprays a cleaning solution onto textiles and vacuums up loosened dirt. With a dual-tank setup—1.5L for clean water and 0.8L for dirty water—it tackles everyday messes like soda, juice, yogurt, and mud. A special brush enhances cleaning power, making it ideal for upholstery, carpets, rugs, and car interiors.
The VCH 4 UVClean combines UV light and a 500W motor to eliminate 99.9% of bacteria and dust mites from mattresses, carpets, and sofas. It features a rotating roller and a 65°C dehumidification system to prevent mold. The 400ml dustbin, along with washable filters and roller, ensures easy maintenance
LG Electronics Appoints Lyu Jae-cheol as New CEO, Effective December 1
LG Electronics has announced the appointment of Lyu Jae-cheol as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective December 1. Lyu brings a proven track record of innovation and strategic growth, having successfully led the Home Appliance & Air Solution (HS) division. Under his leadership, LG expanded its footprint in B2B markets, introduced subscription-based services, and strengthened its direct-to-consumer (D2C) offerings—all while maintaining LG’s competitive edge in the global home appliance sector.
As CEO, Lyu aims to build on LG’s legacy of excellence by enhancing the company’s competitiveness and unlocking new growth opportunities. His vision includes reinforcing LG’s leadership in home appliances and extending that success across the entire organizat,
Electrolux Professional Unveils Pioneering Laundry Tech at Texcare China 2025
At the Texcare Asia & China Laundry Expo 2025held November 12–14 at Shanghai’s New International Expo Centre Electrolux Professional made waves by debuting a game-changing innovation in commercial laundry systems: the industry’s first truly integrated stackable washer-dryer combination unit. This compact powerhouse is engineered to slash footprint requirements by up to 50% while slashing energy and water use, aligning perfectly with the expo’s emphasis on eco-conscious automation and resource efficiency.fd0896cac86a
Designed for high-volume operations like hotels, hospitals, and textile services, the unit merges advanced washing and drying in a vertical footprint that frees up valuable floor space for other essentials. Key highlights include AI-driven load optimization for minimal waste, heat-recovery tech to recapture up to 80% of thermal energy, and smart sensors that adapt cycles for peak performance potentially cutting operational costs by 30% and CO2 emissions significantly.06c305 As part of Electrolux’s broader push toward circular economy principles, this solution supports seamless integration with existing workflows, empowering businesses to scale sustainably without compromise.
With over 300 global exhibitors and 30,000 attendees from 80+ countries, the event underscored Asia’s role as a hub for laundry tech evolution, and Electrolux’s reveal positioned it as a frontrunner in reimagining professional care for a greener future.
Krupps Joins TNK Group in €75M Deal to Boost Global Growth
Italian dishwasher specialist Krupps has been acquired by Padua-based TNK Group, forming a €75 million business. This marks the end of Krupps’ family ownership since its founding by Antonio Scanavin in 1965.
The move aligns Krupps with TNK’s portfolio—which includes Coldline, Modular Professional, Nevo, and Tuls—and aims to expand its global footprint. CEO Enrico Scanavin said the deal preserves Krupps’ heritage while accelerating its international growth and integration into a broader professional kitchen ecosystem.
Krupps currently exports to over 70 countries, with 60% of its revenue coming from outside Italy.
Midea Group Sees Slower Profit Growth in Q3 Despite Strong Year-to-Date Performance
Chinese home appliance leader Midea Group posted a 9% rise in third-quarter net profit, reaching 11.9 billion yuan (€1.44 billion), while revenue climbed 10% year-on-year to 111.9 billion yuan (€13.6 billion). Although still positive, the pace of growth slowed compared to the previous quarter.
For the first nine months of the year, Midea reported a robust net profit of 37.9 billion yuan (€4.6 billion), up 20% from the same period last year. Revenue rose 14% to 363.1 billion yuan (€44 billion). The Foshan-based company had previously recorded even stronger gains in the first half, with net profit surging 25% and revenue growing 16%
DarkGrey by Liebherr: modern, elegant, and effortlessly stylish appliances
At WhiteGoodsNow, we celebrate appliances that combine innovation with architectural elegance—and Liebherr’s #DarkGrey finish is a standout example. Designed for discerning homeowners and interior designers alike, this sophisticated finish brings harmony, durability, and timeless appeal to the modern kitchen.
A Palette Tailored for Contemporary Spaces
The #DarkGrey finish is engineered to complement today’s most refined materials—concrete, natural stone, blackened steel, and matte cabinetry. It’s a versatile, architectural tone that integrates seamlessly into minimalist, industrial, and high-contrast interiors, offering a cohesive and elevated aesthetic.
Built on Precision, Longevity, and Design Integrity
Liebherr’s reputation for German engineering excellence is evident in every detail. The #DarkGrey range is more than just beautiful—it’s built to last. Surfaces are crafted for durability and effortless maintenance, while the design language reflects a commitment to functionality, form, and heritage.
This isn’t about following trends. It’s about setting a new standard for what timeless design looks like in the kitchen.
Explore the Full #DarkGrey Collection https://www.liebherr.com/en-gb/fridges-freezers/dark-grey-appliances-8148496?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=darkgrey
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