Daily freshly harvested salads and herbs from an automatically controlled greenhouse (‘Plantcube’) – with this concept, the Munich-based start-up Agrilution wanted to bring the idea of vertical farming into the home. Since the end of 2019, this has been happening under the umbrella of the Miele Group. Now, the Gütersloh-based household appliance company has announced that it will no longer be continuing the business with the Plantcubes due to a lack of economic prospects. This affects almost 40 salaried as well as additional student employees, who have been given notice of termination due to the closure of the business on June 30, 2023. The approximately 650 users, who also purchased their seeds (‘Seedbars’) through Agrilution, will soon receive an offer to buy back their equipment.
Experts understand ‘vertical farming’ as the space-saving supply of fresh food via large, multi-storey greenhouses. Agrilution itself was founded in 2013, but then had to file for insolvency proceedings in 2019 after a financing round could not be realised as planned. After the opening of insolvency proceedings, Miele took over the brand, the know-how and almost all employees in a so-called asset deal and transferred them to the newly founded 100% subsidiary Agrilution Systems GmbH.
Over the past few years, with intensive financial and technical support from Miele, work has been done to guide the business model, product portfolio and workforce into a sustainable marketable future. ‘Unfortunately, however, it has since become apparent that demand has fallen far short of expectations,’ says Gernot Trettenbrein, Senior Vice President New Growth Factory, amongst others responsible for new business areas at Miele. In addition, this product was marketed at over 3,000 euros due to its technical complexity.
In order to make the Plantcube attractive to broader target groups, an additional series was to be launched at a significantly lower entry price. However, this could no longer be realised due to the skyrocketing costs of materials, energy and logistics. As a result, after careful consideration of all available options, the decision was made not to pursue the plantcube business any further. In conjunction with this, Agrilution’s business operations will cease on June 30, 2023. Miele would like to thank the Agrilution team for their dedicated service and wishes all employees the success they deserve in their future careers.
The dealers who marketed Agrilution’s Plantcube as resellers have already been informed separately by Agrilution, as have all end customers and other users. Furthermore, the company has announced that it will buy back all Plantcubes that are in use or still in stock. Detailed offers will follow within the next few weeks
Polti next level Irons
Polti has unveiled its new range of Next irons, where Next stands for “next level”. The line includes 5 models, differentiated by color and technical characteristics. All have a powerful boiler with unlimited autonomy (the top of the range VN18.65 reaches up to 7.2 bar) and the rounded 360° Fluid Curve plate (patented technology), which allows user to iron easily in all directions. The Turbo function further enhances the release of steam, to also treat fabrics such as linen and jeans. And with the Steam Pulse function, the steam comes out at regular intervals without having to press any buttons. The new models reduce water and energy consumption thanks to the Eco function. Furthermore, Polti Vaporella Next switches off automatically after 10 minutes of inactivity and is equipped with the Calc Cleaning system.
Polti has recently launched a new line of irons called “Next”, which stands for “next level”. The range comprises of 5 different models that are differentiated based on their technical features and color. All the irons are equipped with a potent boiler that offers limitless autonomy. The top-end model, VN18.65, can reach up to 7.2 bar. The 360° Fluid Curve plate, a patented technology, makes it easy for users to iron in all directions. The Turbo function aids the release of steam, making it possible to treat fabrics like linen and jeans. The Steam Pulse function facilitates the steam to come out regularly without requiring the user to press any buttons. The Eco function is designed to reduce water and energy consumption. Furthermore, the Polti Vaporella Next is programmed to switch off automatically after 10 minutes of inactivity and comes equipped with the Calc Cleaning system.
Falmec Brera
Technology is invisible to the eye in the new Brera by Falmec, which will be available from May 2023. Brera is an advanced cooking solution, featuring a configuration conceived to offer a spacious cooking area and a versatile, uniform workspace featuring a monochrome glass ceramic element where the cooking area is teamed with the suction solution. Clean lines, silent operation and energy efficiency (class A++) are the hallmark features of Brera, a single product with multiple functions whose name is a tribute to the renowned Milan design district.
The suction area takes the form of a slender groove, with a glass flap at the back featuring a black steel frame that has a surface anti-scratch system. The flap opens automatically when the hob is in use, sucking away steam and cooking fumes, after which it closes and blends back into the hob. The Brera solution is both stylish and practical: the functional element, positioned at the back, allows for the full height of the kitchen unit to be used, while the smooth, uniform surface is extremely practical for cooking and easy to clean.
Brera is equipped with a powerful brushless motor, which is quieter than traditional motors, as well as touch slider controls, 9 cooking levels + Booster and 4 areas with double bridges, offering maximum versatility when pots of different sizes are being used. The hood also offers new cooking functions, such as Keep Warm, which maintains heat constant so food can be served at the right temperature, or the Chef function, able to set different temperature levels for each cooking area.
The upcoming Brera by Falmec embodies the notion that technology can often be invisible to the eye. This advanced cooking solution offers a spacious cooking area and a versatile, uniform workspace, with a sleek monochrome glass ceramic element that seamlessly integrates the cooking and suction solution. With its clean lines, silent operation, and impressive energy efficiency (class A++), Brera is a true multitasker that pays homage to Milan’s famed design district.
The suction area takes the form of a slim groove, with a black steel-framed glass flap at the back that boasts an anti-scratch surface system. The flap opens automatically when the hob is in use, effectively extracting steam and cooking fumes, and then closes back into the hob for a seamless appearance. This practical and stylish solution optimizes the full height of the kitchen unit and provides a smooth, uniform surface that’s easy to clean.
Brera comes equipped with a powerful brushless motor that operates more quietly than traditional motors, as well as touch slider controls, 9 cooking levels, and 4 areas with double bridge, offering maximum flexibility for pots of different sizes. Additionally, the hood offers new cooking functions such as Keep Warm, which maintains heat at a constant temperature, and the Chef function, which can set different temperature levels for each cooking area. Overall, Brera is an innovative and versatile solution that seamlessly integrates advanced technology into a stylish and functional cooking appliance.
Green product award to the Miele dishwasher
Tenth edition for the Green Product Award . In the kitchen category, the award went to the fully integrated Miele model G 7465 SCVi XXL AutoDos. The international jury appreciated “In particular, the transparency of energy and water consumption through the app involves the consumer who seeks greater sustainability and makes him responsible”. This is the new consumption panel in the Miele app, which displays how often a program is used weekly, monthly or annually and how much water and electricity it actually uses. The app also compares the average values of the programs and provides ecological advice.
The awards are organized by the Green Future Club, a network of sustainable innovators and experts with a vision for a near future where all products are sustainable. The club organizes awards, exhibitions and networking events, supports young designers and publishes the annual Green Trend Book with international best practices. Nils Bader , promoter of the award, emphasizes: “ With the awards, we present existing, future and, of course, sustainable alternatives and network the players. With the exhibition and the talks we want to surprise and show what is already possible. No one should do things randomly, but plan, design and ultimately consume with a different perspective in the future .”Innovative water feed for washing with less water
In the ECO programme, water consumption is reduced to 8.9 litres. This also means that less energy is required to heat the water, and you benefit from an energy-efficient dishwasher. The water savings are achieved through the intelligent design of the supply system and a new, highly efficient filter system. Additional insulation reduces thermal losses and thus the amount of energy required to heat the water.
Greaidea OEM gas hob manufacturer
Established in 2000, the past over 20 years witnessed great chances of our product, R&D, quality level, and service as well. From now on, Greaidea has its own two production bases with over 500 employees, covering 100,000㎡. In order to meet the growing marketing needs, we have equipped with 6 assembly lines for gas hob and rang Greaidea has over 20 year’s experience in manufacturing high quality gas hob and range hood. Our factory locates in Nantou town, Zhongshan city. In our R&D department, 16 engineers are employed to guarantee our R&D advantage and continuous improvement. Every year, 3% of revenue will be invested to R&D . With excellent manufacturing team & QC team, we can realize the annual output 800,000pcs gas hob and 300,000pcs range hood product with optimal quality.
Gas hob: 800,000 pcs / year
Range hood: 300,000 pcs
Elica presents the 2022 Sustainability Report
Elica spa has published the 2022 edition of the Sustainability Report under the slogan “Aspira, Inspira” which represents the ability to continuously imagine innovative and sustainable solutions for the future because every great idea, just like every great company, is born from an inspiration . Improving air quality has always been the starting point. Inspiring people and your target market is the next step.
Despite the difficult context, Elica achieved particularly challenging goals in 2022, breaking its own records for the second consecutive year. The consolidation of its global leadership was made possible by excellent management and financial performance and by a strategic “Sustainability Roadmap” based on three pillars: production and products with low environmental impact, people and governance.
During 2022, the Group used 100% renewable energy in almost all of its production sites in Italy and Poland. This policy has been accompanied by some energy efficiency projects which have contributed to further limiting our carbon footprint.
GE Appliances presents the smart oven with no preheat
GE Profile™ launches its new . Innovative Zero Preheat Technology makes it the first and only countertop oven with no preheat for all modes, directly targeting food so the optimal temperature is reached more quickly without having to wait around for the oven to warm up. On top of this, it leads others in the industry with temperatures that reach up to 500°F, which are ideal for foods like pizza or a high-heat roast. The 11 smart, preset functions include Air Fry, Warm, Toast, Broil, Roast, Pastry, Reheat, Pizza, Cookies, Bake and Bagel.
«We know that time is one of the largest barriers to cooking delicious food at home, so we made a product that virtually eliminates the roadblock by removing preheating from the process – said Andre Zdanow, executive director of small appliances at GE Appliances -.With features like 11 no-preheat cooking modes, high heat temperatures, and guided recipes, the smart oven with no preheat is the ideal all-in-one solution for all modern cooks,from those who are trying to quickly get dinner on the table to those trying a new recipe for the first time.»
The model may sit on the counter, but it features a full-size oven-like capacity large enough to make a 12” pizza, a 13”x9” sheet cake or up to 8 pounds of chicken. It features the one-touch high-rise door that gives extra clearance on the countertop and avoids the need to reach over a hot door to remove food from the oven, all with one simple touch. And the signature GE Profile notification light bar displays the status and progress of cooking. The comapany’s smart oven with no preheat is Wi-Fi Connected with SmartHQ™. It is available in a Carbon Black finish.
Whirlpool Corporation named one of Fortune’s Most Innovative Companies for 2023
Whirlpool Corporation named one of Fortune’s Most Innovative Companies for 2023 Awards, Brand and Product, Innovation
Whirlpool Corporation’s innovative products for 2023: washer for pets with a dog in the photo, a washer with 2-in-1 agitator, a third rack dishwasher, and an oven with air fryer, announcing one of Furtune’s most innovative companies sin 2023
Whirlpool Corporation has been recognized by Fortune as one of America’s Most Innovative Companies in 2023. The inaugural list celebrates companies that have demonstrated success across three areas, including product innovation, process innovation, and innovation culture.
“A spirit of innovation is embedded in our culture and we are proud to be named one of Fortune‘s most innovative companies,” said Marc Bitzer, chairman and CEO of Whirlpool Corp. “With a diverse and growing product portfolio across several trusted U.S. brands, this recognition is a testament to our employees who work tirelessly to create innovative solutions that improve life at home for consumers.”
The best and the brightest engineers and designers, collaborating globally on shared appliance architectures, have been able to unleash innovation in its truest sense and help shape the modern home.”
For more than 111 years, Whirlpool Corp.’s innovation strategy has changed how people around the world care for their families and loved ones — from cooking and entertaining to laundry and household chores. The company is committed to sustainable manufacturing, environmental and social responsibility, leading-edge design, unparalleled craftsmanship, and leveraging emerging digital technologies.
“From the first electric wringer washer in 1911 to our current line-up of leading-edge home appliances, we are obsessed with developing technology that is purposeful in saving time or eliminating work for consumers,” said Roberto H. Campos, senior vice president of Whirlpool Corp.’s Global Product Organization. “The best and the brightest engineers and designers, collaborating globally on shared appliance architectures, have been able to unleash innovation in its truest sense and help shape the modern home.”
In the past two years, Whirlpool Corp. launched several innovative new products, including the Maytag® Pet Pro System, the Whirlpool 2 in 1 Washer with Removable Agitator, a revolutionary large capacity third rack for dishwashers, and added air fry functionality to select smart ovens via an over-the-air update. The company also announced it plans to bring Matter support to its smart appliance models and continues to find innovative solutions to accelerate its ESG strategy, most recently announcing Zero Waste to Landfill Gold or Platinum status (self-certification) at 29 of 29 large manufacturing sites worldwide.
To develop the list, Fortune partnered with Statista Inc., a leading provider of market and consumer data, to survey internal and external stakeholders who have direct exposure to company processes, products, and culture. Statista also worked with LexisNexis PatentSight and used their platform to analyze the quantity and value of a company’s patents.
NEW COPPER FUNKY KETTLE
Work has started on a new Funky Kettle 2 which will include a Strix Stealth Controller for added noise reduction as well as an aluminium die cast premium on off switch. The Funky Kettle 2 has a full stainless steel body and also has a knob on the lid for the first time. In this copper colour it will look absolutely stunning alongside the new Copper Funky Toaster.
Middleby UK to further drive Marco into the UK market
Marco Beverage Systems will now be supplied into the UK market by Middleby UK, after Middleby Corporation acquired the company in December 2022.
Marco design and manufacture some of the leading beverage dispensing systems in the industry. Their product portfolio includes coffee brewers, cold brew dispensers, and a variety of hot, cold and sparkling water dispensers. The POUR’D cold coffee dispenser received the Best New Product 2022 award from the Speciality Coffee Association.
The brand will make an excellent addition to Middleby UK’s ever-growing catalogue of solutions, and reinforces the idea that Middleby UK can be a complete one-stop-shop for equipping a foodservice establishment.
Middleby Corporation’s CEO, Tim FitzGerald has noted that “touchless and in-counter dispense technology is rapidly gaining popularity due to space and labour advantages, along with enhanced aesthetic features. Marco is well-positioned with solutions for these growing trends.”
Marco, who are based in Dublin, Ireland have been operating for more than 40 years and have a great understanding of the kind of beverage dispensing solutions that are ideal for the market. With Middleby UK’s knowledge and experience of driving brands and products into the UK market, we are sure that Marco can be taken to the next level.
