Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.
Skip to Main ContentThe payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.
Re-activate Karin Weisburgh, a senior research analyst for Consumer Reports who has logged many miles during her past International Builders' Show expeditions, shares here overall impressions of the 2007 installment of the event:
• As my colleague Michael DiLauro reported, competitors continue to spy on one another. At a meeting I had with Electrolux, the marketing folks mentioned that the company had six bouncers in its booth at the 2006 Kitchen/Bath Industry Show & Conference (K/BIS). The company will not be attending this year's K/BIS in May because it doesn't want competitors to get a sneak peak at its major appliance launch scheduled for fall. I also heard that Whirlpool will not be exhibiting on the floor at K/BIS.
• The trend in appliances is all about the look. A new Kenmore fridge will have a mirrored finish, and stainless-steel and sleek lines prevailed. For refrigerators overall, the talk was focused more on handles and doors than on inner workings.
• Appliances have yet to go on a diet. Even Miele, known for its slimmer, Euro-sized washers and dryers, is introducing a beefed-up washer and dryer. Drawer appliances are a definite niche market, but as one dishwasher buyer remarked, a good number of drawer models are being sold as second dishwashers.
• Energy savings are inherent in many products, but consumers aren't willing to sacrifice on capacity or looks.
• The crowds were smaller this time around, and overall the show felt more relaxed.—Karin Weisburgh
Build & Buy Car Buying Service
Save thousands off MSRP with upfront dealer pricing information and a transparent car buying experience.
Get Ratings on the go and compare
while you shop
