Editor’s Comment: 2024’s been a blur!
As I’m writing this, it seems as though Autumn has really kicked in! But then again, did we even really have a summer?! 2024 has gone by in a flash. And I don’t know about you, but it seems that as soon as the Summer holidays are over and the back to school stuff comes off the store shelves, Christmas starts to sneak in across the retail sector.
The British Retail Consortium is encouraging this and calling on consumers to start their Christmas shopping early to help consumers spread the cost and to curb the festive frenzy we usually see during November and December. It sounds like a good idea to me. People are more conscious of their money these days so they may be wanting to get a head start.
Retailers can benefit from increased spending earlier on – like now – and electrical retailers especially can get in on the action and take the time to really help their customers find the right product, and perhaps upsell to something alternative.
The question is, what will Black Friday be like this year? It’s a crucial date in the retail calendar – falling bang in the middle of the so-called ‘Golden Quarter’. With such an influx of activity earlier this year with sales of TV and audio boosted by the Euros, it’ll be really interesting to see what happens over the coming months. People may still be holding out to bag themselves a Black Friday (or even ‘Cyber Monday’) bargain in time for Christmas.
In this issue we’re looking at the latest small domestic appliances that might be popular as gifts this year – for customers’ loved ones or for themselves! We hear from several leading brands about the kitchen gadgets they believe will be on people’s Christmas lists – from coffee machines and baking accessories, to toastie grills and soup makers… and everything in between. Turn to page 22 to read more.
Next month sees the return of the ERT Awards as well, where we celebrate not only the best home appliances and consumer electronics across the industry, but also the most forward-thinking and innovative electrical retailers too.
Taking place at The Grand Connaught Rooms in London on Thursday 24 October, it’s going to be another incredible afternoon where friends, colleagues and peers come together to recognise and congratulate the industry’s finest! It is so important that we take a moment to shine a light on the dedication and hard work of everyone around us.
I really hope to see you all in London on 24 October; don’t forget you can book tickets and tables via the ERT Awards website: www.ertawards.co.uk/book-tickets
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Jack Cheeseman – Editor – jackcheeseman@ertonline.co.uk
