Elica has released its fourth‑quarter and full‑year 2025 results, offering a clear snapshot of a company in the middle of a major strategic shift—from a traditional range‑hood specialist to a broader cooking‑appliance player. The transition is underway, but it’s not without financial friction.
Steady Revenue Growth in a Challenging Market
For the full year 2025, Elica reported revenues of €461 million, a 1.6% increase compared to 2024. The final quarter contributed €111 million, with organic growth of 1.7%, signalling that demand held firm despite a competitive and promotion‑heavy environment.
This growth was supported by:
– Strong promotional activity across key markets
– The rollout of new product lines
– Continued investment in expanding the cooking‑appliance portfolio
Margins Under Pressure as Transformation Continues
While top‑line performance remained positive, profitability took a hit.
Elica’s EBITDA declined from €31 million to €28 million, bringing the margin down to 6%.
The company attributes this margin squeeze to:
– Heavy promotional spending across the sector
– Costs linked to launching new products
– Significant investments required to evolve from range hoods into full cooking solutions
This shift is central to Elica’s long‑term strategy, but the financial impact is clearly visible in the short term.
From Profit to Loss: A Difficult Bottom Line
The most striking figure in the 2025 results is the bottom line.
Elica closed the year with a net loss of nearly €5 million, a sharp reversal from the €2.6 million profit recorded in 2024.
The company remains confident that its transformation will strengthen its competitive position, but 2025 underscores the cost of that evolution.
What This Means for the Appliance Sector
Elica’s results reflect broader trends we’re tracking across the white‑goods industry:
– Brands expanding into full cooking ecosystems
– Higher promotional intensity as competition tightens
– Margin pressure as companies invest in innovation and product diversification
Elica’s pivot toward integrated cooking appliances positions it well for future growth, but 2025 shows that the transition phase will require resilience—and continued investment.
Category Archives: Financial
LG Extends Its Lead as No. 1 U.S. Home Appliance Brand for Second Year
LG Electronics has secured its position as the top home appliance brand in the United States for the second year in a row, strengthening the momentum it built throughout 2024.
According to new data from U.S. market research firm Traqline, LG captured a 22% revenue share across six major appliance categories in 2025—washers, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, freestanding ranges, and microwave ovens.
LG Hits a Milestone: No. 1 in U.S. Refrigerators
The standout story this year is refrigeration.
LG overtook Samsung, GE, and Whirlpool to claim 24.3% of the U.S. refrigerator market, marking the first time the company has led this category.
Independent Ratings Back Up LG’s Market Dominance
LG’s performance isn’t just about sales—it’s validated by third‑party evaluations:
– Consumer Reports ranked LG washers in the top three spots for both its 2026 Front‑Load and Top‑Load Washer lists.
– J.D. Power named LG the highest‑rated brand for both French‑door and side‑by‑side refrigerators in its 2025 customer satisfaction study.
Three Strategic Moves Behind LG’s U.S. Success
LG attributes its continued leadership to a focused strategy built on technology, manufacturing, and customer trust:
1. AI‑Driven Hardware
LG has embedded artificial intelligence directly into motors, compressors, and other core components. These systems self‑optimize for efficiency and predict maintenance needs, reducing failures and boosting long‑term reliability.
2. Hyper‑Automated U.S. Manufacturing
The company’s Tennessee “Lighthouse Factory” uses advanced robotics and automation to cut production costs, increase precision, and minimize human error, setting a global benchmark for smart manufacturing.
3. Localized Supply Chain & Service Network
With a supply chain rooted in the U.S. and Mexico—and a network of 1,900+ regional warranty centers—LG ensures fast delivery, strong after‑sales support, and high consumer confidence.
Expanding Into B2B and Builder Markets
LG is also accelerating its B2B growth.
A new partnership with CSC ServiceWorks expands LG’s footprint in commercial laundry, while its built‑in appliance packages continue to gain traction with home builders. The company reports a 64% year‑over‑year increase in builder‑channel sales in 2024.
Electrolux Group Doubles Profit in 2025 Despite Lower Revenue
Electrolux Group closed the fourth quarter of 2025 on a positive note, posting a 2% increase in sales to SEK 35 billion (€3.3 billion). Operating profit also strengthened, reaching SEK 1.52 billion (€144 million) and delivering a margin of 4.3%.
Across the full year, the Swedish appliance manufacturer generated SEK 131.3 billion (€12.4 billion) in revenue—slightly below the SEK 136 billion recorded in 2024. Despite the dip in sales, profitability improved significantly: Electrolux reported SEK 3.7 billion (€350 million) in profit, double the previous year’s result. The company attributed this rebound to effective cost‑saving measures and a more favorable product mix.
According to the Group’s report, Italy—its third‑largest European market after Germany and Switzerland—contributed SEK 3.8 billion (€0.36 billion) in sales. While overall European performance softened, Electrolux noted encouraging momentum in Latin America.
Looking ahead, the company plans to withhold dividends to reinforce its balance sheet amid rising net debt. It also intends to continue pursuing cost efficiencies across all business areas.
Franke Group Acquires Røros Metall to Strengthen Nordic Presence and Ventilation Expertise
In a strategic move to bolster its footprint in the Nordic region and reinforce its leadership in centralized ventilation, the Swiss-based Franke Group has announced the acquisition of Røros Metall AS, a premium Norwegian manufacturer renowned for its high-end RørosHetta range hoods and ventilation systems.
The deal, which involves the full acquisition of Røros Metall’s shares, marks a significant milestone in Franke’s growth strategy. While financial details remain undisclosed, the implications for the home solutions market are substantial.
A Powerful Synergy in Kitchen Ventilation
Røros Metall will now operate under Franke Home Solutions, the division of the Franke Group dedicated to intelligent kitchen systems and solutions. This integration is set to unlock new opportunities for innovation, combining Franke’s global scale and engineering excellence with Røros Metall’s craftsmanship and deep market knowledge in the Nordic region.
The acquisition is more than a geographic expansion—it’s a strategic alignment of values and vision. Both companies share a commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and premium design. By joining forces, they aim to accelerate the development of next-generation ventilation solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern kitchens.
What This Means for the Industry
– Stronger Nordic Market Position: Franke gains a deeper foothold in Norway and the broader Nordic region, enhancing its ability to serve local customers with tailored solutions.
– Sustainable Innovation: The partnership will focus on advancing eco-friendly, energy-efficient ventilation technologies.
– Global Growth for RørosHetta: With access to Franke’s international network, the RørosHetta brand is poised for broader exposure and expansion beyond its home market.
This acquisition underscores Franke’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the home kitchen space. As the demand for smarter, greener appliances continues to rise, the combined strengths of Franke and Røros Metall are set to shape the future of kitchen ventilation across Europe and beyond
Ebac Eyes Stronger Profitability Ahead Despite Dip in 2024 Turnover
British appliance manufacturer Ebac is forecasting improved profitability in the coming years following strategic restructuring, including the closure of one of its production lines.
In newly published financial results for 2024, the County Durham-based company reported a drop in turnover from £17.7 million to £15.9 million. Despite the decline, directors described the year as “another challenging” period and emphasized that decisive actions had been taken to strengthen the business.
Ebac, known for its range of washing machines, dehumidifiers, water coolers, and heat pumps, said the changes are expected to streamline operations and position the company for a more sustainable and profitable future.
Electrolux Professional Group has completed the acquisition of the assets of Royal Range
Electrolux Professional Group has today completed the acquisition of the assets of Royal Range, a US Commercial cooking company.
In connection with the completion of the transaction, Electrolux Professional Group has become the owner of all assets in Royal Range. The purchase price is not disclosed.
Electrolux Professional announced on November 11, 2025, that it had agreed to acquire the assets of Royal Range
iRobot Acquired by Picea Amid Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: What It Means for Roomba Owners
In a surprising development that’s sending ripples through the smart home appliance industry, iRobot—the company behind the iconic Roomba robotic vacuum—has been acquired by Chinese contract manufacturing giant Picea. The acquisition comes as part of iRobot’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, raising serious questions about the future of its products, services, and customer support.
What Happened?
iRobot, once a pioneer in consumer robotics and a household name thanks to its Roomba line, has officially filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. As part of the restructuring process, the company has been taken over by Picea, a major player in global electronics manufacturing. While the financial details remain under wraps, the move signals a major shift in iRobot’s operational control and strategic direction.
Why Roomba Owners Are Concerned
The news has sparked concern among Roomba users worldwide. With the company now under new ownership, many are wondering:
– Will existing Roomba warranties still be honored?
– What happens to software updates and app support?
– Will customer service remain accessible and responsive?
– Could data privacy policies change under new management?
These are valid questions, especially for customers who’ve invested in premium models or rely on Roomba’s smart home integrations.
What We Know So Far
As of now, Picea has not released a detailed roadmap for iRobot’s future. There’s been no official statement regarding warranty policies, ongoing support, or changes to the product lineup. However, transitions like this often involve a period of uncertainty as the new parent company evaluates operations and restructures accordingly.
What Should Roomba Owners Do?
Until more information is available, here are a few proactive steps Roomba users can take:
– Check your warranty status: Locate your proof of purchase and warranty documentation.
– Back up your app settings: If your Roomba uses the iRobot Home app, ensure your preferences and cleaning schedules are saved.
– Monitor official channels: Follow iRobot and Picea for updates on support, service, and product announcements.
– Consider alternatives: If you’re in the market for a new robotic vacuum, it may be worth exploring other brands with stable support ecosystems.
Final Thoughts
The acquisition of iRobot by Picea marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the smart home appliance market. While the long-term implications remain to be seen, one thing is clear: consumers are watching closely. At WhiteGoodsNow, we’ll continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they unfold.
Strix Sells Billi for £110M, Tripling Investment and Accelerating Debt Reduction
Strix Group Plc has announced the sale of its Billi business to a newly formed Australian entity for £110 million in cash—a move that nearly triples its original investment and supports the company’s strategy to reduce debt.
The AIM-listed technology firm, renowned globally for its kettle safety controls and water-heating components, confirmed that the transaction values Billi at an enterprise value of £110 million on a cash-free, debt-free basis. The sale remains subject to shareholder approval.
Strix originally acquired Billi in November 2022 for £38 million. The divestment now delivers an estimated 3x return on that investment, translating to approximately 47.8 pence per Strix share—an 18% premium over the company’s recent share price.
This strategic move underscores Strix’s commitment to strengthening its balance sheet while sharpening its focus on core operations
iRobot, Maker of Roomba, Files for Bankruptcy Protection Amid Market Pressures
iRobot, the pioneering company behind the Roomba smart vacuum cleaner, has filed for bankruptcy protection in the United States as it struggles to navigate a challenging global market.
The filing, made under a pre-packaged Chapter 11 process, will see Shenzhen-based Picea Robotics—iRobot’s primary manufacturing partner—take over ownership of the company. This strategic move comes after iRobot faced mounting competition from Chinese brands and was hit hard by rising tariffs.
According to court documents filed Sunday, iRobot was forced to slash prices and ramp up investment in innovation to stay competitive. However, U.S. tariffs of 46% on imports from Vietnam—where most of its devices for the American market are produced—added $23 million to its costs this year alone.
Once valued at $3.56 billion during the pandemic-driven boom in home automation, iRobot’s market value has plummeted to around $140 million. The company’s shares dropped more than 13% on the Nasdaq last Friday.
Despite the financial turbulence, iRobot has assured customers that its mobile app, product support, and supply chains will continue to operate without disruption.
Founded in 1990 by three MIT Artificial Intelligence Lab alumni, iRobot initially focused on defense and space robotics before launching the Roomba in 2002. The Roomba quickly became a household name, capturing 42% of the U.S. and 65% of the Japanese robotic vacuum market.
A proposed $1.7 billion acquisition by Amazon was blocked last year by the European Union’s competition authority, further complicating iRobot’s path forward.
Groupe Brandt Liquidated After Rescue Plan Fails: A Stark Warning for European Appliance Manufacturing
The curtain has fallen on one of France’s most iconic appliance manufacturers. On Thursday, December 11, the Nanterre Commercial Court ordered the liquidation of Groupe Brandt, marking the end of a months-long effort to save the company through an employee-led cooperative. The decision spells the loss of approximately 700 jobs and halts production of legacy brands including Brandt, De Dietrich, Sauter, and Vedette.
This outcome underscores a broader and troubling trend: the continued erosion of European-based appliance manufacturing in the face of global competition, financial fragility, and investor hesitancy.
A Last-Ditch Effort That Fell Short
The final hope for Groupe Brandt rested on a bold proposal—a Scop (Société coopérative et participative), or employee cooperative, backed by Groupe Revive and entrepreneur Cédric Meston, co-founder of plant-based food brand HappyVore. The plan aimed to preserve local jobs and maintain production in the historic Loiret and Loir-et-Cher regions by turning employees into co-owners.
Despite strong political and regional support, including €17 million in public funding from the French state, Centre-Val de Loire region, and the city of Orléans, the plan ultimately collapsed. The court deemed the proposal financially unviable, citing a shortfall of €3–8 million that banks refused to cover.
Political Will Meets Financial Reality
The rescue effort drew unprecedented political attention. Industry Minister Sébastien Martin pledged €5 million in state aid, while regional leaders rallied to raise additional funds. Yet, even with this show of unity, the private sector’s reluctance to assume risk proved decisive.
With no viable path to cover the remaining funding gap—and no means to pay salaries beyond December 15—the court had little choice but to proceed with liquidation.
What This Means for the Industry
Groupe Brandt’s collapse is more than a corporate failure—it’s a symbolic blow to the European white goods sector. Once a pillar of French industrial pride, Brandt’s demise highlights the vulnerability of legacy manufacturers in a capital-intensive, globally competitive market.
For industry watchers, the case raises urgent questions:
– Can cooperative ownership models realistically rescue distressed manufacturers?
– What role should public funding play in safeguarding industrial heritage?
– And how can Europe retain its foothold in appliance production amid mounting global pressures?
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the Brandt story will resonate far beyond France’s borders.
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