Category Archives: Manufacturing

BSH Spain Celebrates 23 Million Induction Hobs and 35 Years of Innovation in Zaragoza

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BSH Home Appliances Spain, S.A. has reached a major production milestone—over 23 million induction hobs manufactured at its Zaragoza facility, the company’s global headquarters. This achievement marks 35 years of continuous innovation in a product that has transformed kitchens worldwide, making them safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.

A trailblazer in industry-academic collaboration, BSH was one of the first companies to partner with the University of Zaragoza, fostering a culture of research and development that continues to drive progress today. The Montañana plant, home to 1,500 employees—including 150 dedicated to R&D—is widely regarded as the crown jewel of BSH’s operations in Spain.

Franke Group Acquires Røros Metall to Strengthen Nordic Presence and Ventilation Expertise

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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

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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.

Groupe Brandt Liquidated After Rescue Plan Fails: A Stark Warning for European Appliance Manufacturing

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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.

Whirlpool Invests R$3 Million in Advanced Training Hub in Brazil

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Whirlpool is investing R$3 million in a new advanced manufacturing training center at its Rio Claro plant in São Paulo, where it produces washers, stoves, ovens, and cooktops.

The “Factory of the Future” aims to deliver 6,000 hours of annual training through 2030 for employees and students from São Paulo State’s technical colleges (Fatecs), with the goal of boosting local manufacturing productivity by 50%.

Whirlpool employs 12,000 people in Brazil, including 3,000 in Rio Claro, and operates additional plants in Manaus and Joinville. Over the past five years, the company has invested R$1.3 billion in Brazil and $4 billion globally in R&D and capital expenditures. Currently, 97% of its products sold in Brazil are manufactured locally.

TCL to manufacturer in Bangladesh

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TCL Global Marketing Company Limited has officially launched operations in Bangladesh, partnering with local tech leader DX Group to handle marketing, distribution, and manufacturing. The announcement was made at an event at Hotel Sheraton, Banani, where TCL shared its investment plans and commitment to building robust local production capabilities.The company plans to produce a range of products locally, including televisions, air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines,

Jensen North America Acquires G.A. Braun, Strengthening Its North American Presence

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Jensen North America, a proud member of the global Jensen-Group, has officially acquired the business operations of G.A. Braun. This strategic acquisition represents a major leap forward in Jensen-Group’s long-term growth strategy, significantly enhancing its manufacturing capabilities, broadening its product offerings, and expanding its service network throughout North America.

By integrating G.A. Braun’s expertise and infrastructure, Jensen-Group is poised to deliver even greater value to customers across the region—reinforcing its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer-centric solutions in the industrial laundry sector.

Whirlpool Reshapes Global Footprint: Reduces Stake in India, Halts Production in Argentina

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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.

Electrolux Unveils Global Restructure

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Electrolux CEO Yannick Fierling has announced a sweeping global reorganisation aimed at sharpening the company’s customer focus—particularly in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The restructure, effective 1 January 2026, marks Fierling’s one-year anniversary at the helm.

Under the new framework, Electrolux will replace its existing ‘Business Areas’ with newly defined ‘Regions.’ The former Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa (BA EA) division will be split into two distinct entities:

  • Region Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA)
  • Region Asia-Pacific (APAC)

Fierling explained that APAC will concentrate on commercial functions such as marketing, sales, and product lines, while other regions will also oversee operations like manufacturing. “These changes are designed to enhance customer responsiveness in APAC,” he said, noting that the new regional head will be announced soon.

Electrolux ANZ Managing Director Kurt Hegvold welcomed the restructure, calling it a win for the local market. “It brings our voice closer to senior leadership and strengthens ties with key partners and consumers. A flatter, leaner structure will help us move faster and serve customers more effectively,” he told Appliance Retailer.

Alongside the geographic overhaul, Electrolux has confirmed several leadership appointments:

  • Eduardo Mello becomes Head of Region Latin America, succeeding Leandro Jasiocha. Mello previously led Global Food Preservation and served as Commercial VP for Latin America for a decade.
  • Leandro Jasiocha steps into the role of Head of Region EMEA, replacing Anna Ohlsson-Leijon, who is departing to pursue external opportunities. Fierling praised Ohlsson-Leijon’s strategic leadership and lasting impact on the Group.
  • Patrick Minogue has been named Head of Region North America, following the retirement of Ricardo Cons.

Electrolux Sees Profits Surge as North American Comeback Powers Q3 Growth

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Electrolux has posted a strong third-quarter performance, with operating profits more than doubling year-over-year—thanks largely to a revitalized North American business. The Swedish appliance giant, whose portfolio includes household names like Frigidaire and AEG, reported operating earnings of 890 million kronor ($94.5 million), up from 349 million kronor in the same period last year.

This impressive leap was fueled by a 5% organic sales increase, driven primarily by double-digit growth in North America. After years of grappling with high production costs, plant inefficiencies, and intense competition, Electrolux’s U.S. operations have turned a corner—gaining market share and helping to offset rising customs duties.

“Despite a pressured price environment, we were able to offset most of the cost increases related to US customs duties in the third quarter,” said CEO Yannick Fierling, highlighting the company’s resilience and strategic progress.