Matt Balm, small appliance sales director, Smeg, outlines the year so far and expectations for the rest of 2024.
How has 2024 been so far for your company and the industry as a whole?
Matt: “Our SDA business has had a positive start to the year, all be it in a challenging market. Our breakfast collection continues to prove successful with our retailers and consumers alike, which provides a great starting point for the consumers’ journey of our brand.”
What has been your highlight of 2024 so far?
Matt: “We have just exhibited at the London Coffee Festival, which was very well attended, allowing us to showcase some of our new Smeg SDA and La Pavoni coffee products that will be coming this year. It also allowed us to demonstrate both ranges with baristas, bring the actual products to life.”
What have the biggest challenges and opportunities been so far?
Matt: “The biggest challenge has been the market conditions and consumer confidence, which to a certain extent are out of our control. The opportunities are continuing to build our brand within the SDA arena, with coffee being a large focus. Being an Italian brand, and our coffee portfolio expanding, we see this as a real opportunity over the next 12 months.”
What are your hopes and expectations for the remainder of 2024?
Matt: “To continue building on the success of our SDA range, adding new products to help develop that growth with our retailers and consumers alike.”
