Us Major Home Appliance Industry in 2002

U.S Major Home Appliance Industry in 2002 (Case 15)

The household appliance industry is huge! The number of household appliance grows every year, but there is one sector of the industry, the major appliance sector that remains constant. The appliances that comprise this sector are ranges, refrigerators, washers, dryers, and dishwasher. The major appliance industry is both saturated and mature. The five major players are General Electric, Maytag, Whirlpool, Electrolux, and Raytheon. All are well established in the industry and have been major players for many years.

Prior to World War II, most appliance manufactures produced a limited line of appliances derived from one successful product. For example, General Electric made refrigerators, and Maytag focus on washing machine. During this era a company was reluctant to enter the market of another company. It was not until 1945 that firms begin to offer full lines of various appliances.

The industry almost double in size during the 1960s, as sales of several products grew rapidly. The sales continue to increase in the 1970s despite the high interest rates and inflation. During the 1980s the industry was beginning to expand, because of the acceptance of the microwave by the U.S. consumers. By 1990s, U.S. manufactures offered a full range of products even if they did not make the items themselves.

By 2002, new technologies and designed were being introduced into major home appliances. Due to governmental pressure, appliance manufactures were introducing energy efficient versions of refrigerators and washing machines. Today’s kitchens are often the entertainment center of the home. Many consumers are demanding appliances that are attractive, convenient and easy to clean. Many consumers are willing to pay top prices for top of the fine appliances that enhances their dйcor’s and save precious time. The manufactures have responded to the consumer demands, by manufacture smart appliances with sophisticated electronic controls and self diagnostic features.

The major appliance industry