Italian manufacturer SMEG had launched its foray into small appliances around a year ago on 4th april 2014. The launch invitation was reflection of an Apple style launch teasing customers and media with subtle hints to up the curiosity levels. The event venue was Milan.
The retro element was seen coming with the classic light blue “Anita” shade. Everybody was inquisitive about what the product range will be?
The nudging image of dial and a knob looked like a toaster. The speculation was that SMEG is entering the breakfast appliances.
SMEG is was founded by Vittorio Bertazzoni in 1948 in the village of Guastalia, Reggio Emilia, Italy. The acronym SMEG stands for “Smalterie Metallurgiche Emiliane Guastalla” meaning – Emilian metallurgical enamel works of Guastalia.
SMEG is best known for its retro style refrigerators that come with curved corners and a variety of non traditional colors and unexpected patterns to what is generally seen in this product range. The company is also into manufacturing of Dishwashers, Washing Machines, Ovens, Microwaves, Cook-tops and much more.
FAB retro-style appliances where launched first in 1997 evocative of 1950’s including deep curved doors and a chunky handle. The fridge freezer versions included colors – Pink, Yellow, Orange and even lime plus in special edition.
SMEG is a Design winner
SMEG has been awarded actively in the past however most recently it was awarded with – iF product design award 2015 fro its stand mixer SMF01 and Toaster TSF01.
SMEG Sells
SMEG’s sales data shows sales in the new categories of 333,000 food processors in the first year. The average sales price is $129. SMEG so far has has tried penetration by formal launches in European, American and Australian markets with a clear intentions of shaking up the premium small appliance category.
In the USA SMEG is active in small fridge category and launched its FAB5 mini fridge in black, orange, cream and red colors. The fridge is compact and packed with features like adjustable thermostat, 2 shelves with 5 adjustable height options, bottle holder, ice tray, snack compartment, internal LED lighting and very low noise levels while operations.
“The retro curves, vibrant colors and unmistakable vintage design of our refrigeration has a strong, cult-like following in the world,” states Sonja Dettori, Operations Manager for Smeg USA, Inc. “While the styling and color selection make it the ‘coolest’ mini fridge on the market, the FAB5’s compact design, silent noise level, stand alone mobility and weight make it ideal for commercial settings as well as residential bars, dorm rooms or other entertaining centers.”
SMEG on Amazon.com
SMEG’s mini 50’s style fridges are freely available on Amazon.com. The reviews indicate that SMEG has ironed out post launch difficulties faced by customers. Mostly to do with the door an sealing. While a customer have gone to revise their rating to “4” another one sits at dis-satisfactory “1”.
If you are are too smitten by retros and 50’s and want to give the FAB range of SMEG a try… click the button below.
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