Rise of High Priced Appliances - a new mark of luxury!!

New-age open kitchen is transcending many age-old boundaries – social and cultural. Today, it is merging seamlessly with people’s living spaces – and this has given rise to a new set of choices for home makers. The open kitchen and a slew of luxury appliances therein are the latest fashion statement of modern home owners.  

As the Indian luxury market is getting more refined, just owning a luxury apartment and car seems to be inadequate and it's getting reflected in the kitchen, which is fast-moving to the living room as a mark of luxury. Much like they would do with mobile phones, cars or a home, consumers are now buying premium home appliances to make a lifestyle and fashion statement.

The consumers buying habits are now shifting from functionality to aesthetics as they are now equally concerned with showing off their appliances in their open kitchens. Companies like Philips, Westinghouse, Panasonic, Kenwood and Morphy Richards understand this and are launching premium models with advanced features that appeal to customers at the top of the pyramid. The biggest consumers of these premium products are high net worth individuals as well as young upwardly mobile couples with high disposable incomes in tier 1&2 towns. These products are also an aspiration for the growing middle class population in smaller towns.

A price segment study of the Grinders category by Market Pulse shows that the contribution of the premium category is quiet significant as it contributes 10% in the Mixer grinders' sales and 14% in the Juicer mixer grinders' sales. 

The contribution of premium category even in the class 3-4 & 5-6 towns is approximately 15% &7% respectively.

Brands like Philips, Kenwood and Westing house market premium category induction cookers priced at Rs.3500+. 

By adding unique features to its products, premium appliance makers have cut out a niche demand segment and created a distinct visibility!