Goodbye to White Goods?

Cast an eye round your kitchen appliances - how many of them are white? For years I have been teaching about the white goods industries - those that manufacture dishwashers, freezers, washers and driers - students have taken the mick and accused me of teaching a spoof lesson (I try to do this once a term!). Well perhaps they are right for there seems to be a distinct change in the demand for appliances of different colours if the USA household goods market is any guide.

According to a new report from the NPD Group, unit sales of black refrigerators, washing machines, clothes dryers, and ranges all grew in 2007, as did dollar sales, in most cases. Colours such as red, blue, and green are showing big growth and commanding some of the top price points - great for the profit margins of manufacturers and retailers alike who seem willing to justify charging a significantly higher price for multi-coloured appliances.