Appliance registration drive reveals changing consumer priorities

21st January 2025

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New research reveals Britons' deep reliance on domestic appliances, yet millions remain unregistered for vital safety updates.

A recent OnePoll survey, commissioned by the Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances (AMDEA), highlights changing consumer attitudes across generations - from essential everyday items to smart technology adoption.

The washing machine emerges as the nation's most indispensable appliance, with 62% of respondents naming it their most vital household helper, closely followed by fridges at 59%. Perhaps unsurprisingly, washing machines also topped the list of appliances that have revolutionised household chores, with 58% acknowledging their transformative impact.

Particularly noteworthy for retailers is the generational shift in what constitutes a 'necessity'. Generation Z now considers tumble dryers (71%), hair tongs (70%), and air fryers (67%) essential to daily life. This younger demographic is also driving the coffee machine market, with less than half now viewing these appliances as luxury items.

For the trade, the research presents interesting insights into purchasing decisions. Generation X showed significant interest in smart technology, being five times more likely than their grandparents to prioritise smart features when selecting new appliances. Energy efficiency remains a crucial selling point across all age groups, with 80% of adults citing it as an important factor in their purchasing decisions.

However, despite an estimated 133 million fridges, washing machines and ovens currently in use across UK homes, nearly a third of households have never registered their large appliances. This oversight poses significant challenges for implementing safety repairs or recalls when needed.

AMDEA CEO Paul Hide emphasises the importance of registration and said: "We are clearly a nation of appliance lovers, who appreciate the transformative effect they've had on our lives and who are excited by the future of smart tech, especially the younger generations. However, people are missing out on an important safety benefit - an estimated 40 million large appliances are unregistered, which means they are untraceable if a safety repair is needed."

Retailers can direct customers to register their appliances at regmyappliance.org.uk. The process is quick, free, and provides valuable peace of mind for both new and existing appliances.


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