Consumer Reports Names the Most & Least Reliable Brands Based on Survey Covering 5.1 Million Products; High-end brands for major kitchen appliances prone to repairs; Whirlpool, Kenmore & GE have been more reliable
April 26, 2008
Pricey brand loyalists
may want to re-think their allegiance before spending big money on the next
major kitchen appliances, says Consumer Reports Annual Product Reliability
Survey, which identifies the most and least reliable product brands.
Among the least reliable brands identified by Consumer Reports readers
are major cooking appliances by high-end brands such as Viking, Thermador,
Dacor and Jenn-Air. CR’s survey shows that 33 percent of Viking gas ranges
and at least 15 percent of Viking, Thermador and Dacor gas cooktops have
been repaired or have had an un-repairable problem during the last few
years.
Pricey Sub-Zero brand refrigerators also proved to be among the more
repair prone brands. CR’s survey shows that 24 percent of Sub-Zero side-by-
side models, as well as 24 percent of Sub-Zero top-/bottom-freezers models
have needed repair over last few years-a stark contrast to Whirlpool, whose
category-best side-by-side and top-/bottom-freezers models required the
least amount of repairs, 14 percent and 7 percent respectively.
Whirlpool, Kenmore and GE brands prove to be safe bets for major
appliance shoppers. Both brands on average tend to have relatively low
repair rates between 2002 and 2006 for many types of appliances including
electric ranges, gas ranges, gas cook tops, electronic wall ovens,
refrigerators, gas and electric clothes dryers, and front- and top-loading
washing machines.
While not the sole front runner in each electronic device category,
Sony brand electronics were a safe bet and among the more reliable brands
in many categories including camcorders, and picture tube TVs. Sony shows
promising reliability for plasma TVs, LCD TVs, microdisplay TVs.
Consumer Reports National Research Center’s reliability data is based
on responses from more than 950,000 readers. Because many readers own more
than one type of product in the same category, that translates into more
than 1.3 million vehicles, 1.2 million electronic gadgets, and 2.5 million
appliances and lawn machines — a total of 5.1 million product reports.
“While changes in design can change a product’s performance, and
specific models within a brand may vary in reliability, we have found that
choosing a brand with a consistently good history improves your chances of
getting a reliable model,” said Mark Kotkin, director of survey research
for Consumer Reports.
Time to Repair or Replace?
Sometimes entire product categories require more repairs than others.
For example, when Consumer Reports looked at three– and
four-year-old-products, it found that laptop and desktop computers,
side-by-side refrigerators with ice makers, riding mowers and lawn tractors
tended to need more fixes than other type of products.
Consumer Reports generally advises that in the following scenarios
buyers should replace rather than repair products: (1) when a product costs
less than $150; and (2) if repairs would cost more than half the price of a
new model.
The May 2007 issue of Consumer Reports offers consumers a timeline to
determine whether it’s smarter to replace a product than to repair it by
considering the product’s age, typical repair and replacement costs, and
the improvements of new models. The chart below shows at what age it would
be more sensible for consumers to replace rather than repair their current
product:
4 Years digital cameras, 32-inch picture-tube TVs
5 Years camcorders, 36-inch picture-tube TVs
computers, gas push mowers
6 Years dishwashers, over-the-range microwaves, top-
freezer refrigerators, upright vacuums
7 Years clothes dryers, gas self-propelled mowers,
top-loader washers
8 Years Bottom-freezer and side-by-side refrigerators,
canister vacuums, electric or gas ranges,
electric wall ovens, front-loader washers
CR’s May issue, which goes on sale April 10, offers a complete rundown
on the most and least reliable brands for cooking appliances,
refrigerators, washers and dryers, electronics products, TVs, vacuums,
cars, lawn machines and much more. More information is also available at
http://www.ConsumerReports.org.
Consumer Reports Reviews Sub-Zero Refrigerators
April 26, 2008
Consumer Reports tests product performance in its labs. But it gets reliability data from consumers who respond to its yearly reliability survey. By combining this data — performance and reliability — you can find products that are most likely to work well and be trouble-free.
I always check Consumer Reports for reliability ratings before making a major purchase. But two years ago when we remodeled the kitchen, the magazine did not have reliability ratings for electric wall ovens.
This year’s survey results are based on responses from more than 950,000 readers who rated 30 different types of products, including ovens, washers, dryers, dishwashers, ranges, refrigerators, televisions, lawnmowers, and automobiles.
Upscale Sub-Zero refrigerators are a designer favorite. Consumer Reports lab tests show Sub-Zero delivers “superior food preservation.” But the editors say, based on reader feedback, Sub-Zero models are repair-prone.
During the last few years, 24 percent of all Sub-Zero models needed to be repaired, the survey shows. Compare that to the results for Whirlpool, whose refrigerators needed the fewest repairs — 14 percent for side-by-sides and 7 percent for top or bottom-freezer models.
For the most stylish and sleek looking refrigerators, go with the built-in design. Built-in refrigerators create a seamless feel in your kitchen so that the fridge will be flush with your cabinetry. Built-ins are often so well hidden behind cabinet facades it’s hard to tell where they are in a kitchen. They come in side by side models or bottom-freezer designs and are the most expensive style available with prices ranging from $4000 to $7000. Some of the cabinet depth models of built-ins are cheaper at $1500 to $3200. You will find built-ins at 36 inches wide or larger and some even come in the newer french door styles. The biggest drawback to built-in refrigerators are that they are very pricey and at the same time prone to repairs. The top rated built-ins per Consumer Reports are the Sub-Zero 650F ($6500), the GE Monogram ZICS36ONR ($6400) and the KitchenAid KBFC42F ($6800). The Sub-Zero built-in is the cheapest of the 3, but also gets terrible repair ratings. At 37 inches wide the Sub-Zero provides plenty of storage space and rates high for temperature performance. Some owners have said the icemaker is problematic and that the drawers don’t come out far enough. As for the GE, it’s quiet and does a great job on temperature control and has a beautiful stainless steel finish. The KitchenAid is the most expensive of the group but is 43 inches wide giving you plenty of storage space. It also features the french door style doors are becoming more and more popular in commercial refrigerators found in homes.
It’s natural for anyone who gets a sub-par rating to challenge the validity of the survey. So I was not surprised when Paul Leuthe, corporate marketing manager for Sub-Zero, told me, “The numbers are not accurate.”
Sub-Zero is the only built-in refrigerator on the survey. “So it has a lot more potential for problems than a free-standing refrigerator that is just plugged in,” Leuthe says. “Someone who buys a $5,000 to $8,000 refrigerator is less tolerant than other customers,” he adds.
But Leuthe admits there could be another reason why this top-of-the-line brand rated at the bottom of the reliability survey. He says about four years ago they got a bad batch of copper tubing. It was used in the evaporators for models made from 2003 to 2006.
That tubing is now rusting and causing leaks. “These evaporator problems could be skewing the ratings,” Leuthe says. He points out with some pride that Sub-Zero is making free repairs with no questions asked.
The kitchen is one of the first areas that people tend to update or upgrade when they are remodeling any portion of their house. The refrigerator is an important appliance in the kitchen that comes in many styles and designs. You can choose from top-freezer, bottom-freezer, built-in, side by side, french door, counter depth, undercounter, and more. Over 11 million refrigerators were sold in the United States just a few years ago so sales are trending upwards as new refrigerators are hitting the market. The top manufacturers for refrigerators are Whirlpool, Kenmore, Amana, GE, LG, Hotpoint, Maytag, Frigidaire, KitchenAid, Viking, Samsung, Jenn-Air, Bosch, Sub-Zero, Thermador, and Fisher & Paykel. Down below we will go into desired features on all types of refrigerators followed by reviews of the top models per Consumer Reports.
With many kitchen renovations running $15,000 to $25,000, it’s clear that homeowners are willing to invest in their vision of the perfect kitchen. Cabinets and countertops account for about half the cost, but appliances represent a big investment as well.
Over the past few months, Consumer Reports (CR) has tested hundreds of appliances - refrigerators, ranges, cooktops, wall ovens, dishwashers, microwave ovens, and high-speed cooking appliances - that cost from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. CR has also tested cabinets, countertops, sinks, and faucets in all price ranges to determine the pros and cons of the major types. Whatever your budget, we’ll help you make smart choices and get the most for the money.
“In Consumer Reports’ most comprehensive kitchen package ever, our tests showed that you don’t have to pay top price to get top performance,” said Mark Connelly, Consumer Reports’ Director of Testing, Appliances and Home Improvement. “In fact, pricey Dacor, DCS, GE Monogram, and Viking pro-style ranges were among the lowest-scoring of the models we tested. And the premium-priced Sub-Zero built-in was among the most repair-prone brands of refrigerators, offsetting its fine performance. The package contains the three R’s of Consumer Reports: ratings, recommendations and repair histories.”
Today’s refrigerators do a good job of keeping things cold. They’re also about 30 percent more energy efficient than fridges were just a few years ago, thanks to new federal energy standards. Within any one category, model-to-model performance differences are minor. Your deciding factors will probably be type, exterior dimensions, storage capacity, convenience features, styling and price. Smart choices include the following:
Basic ($600 to $850) The Maytag MTB1956GE, $825, is feature-laden and convenient. Nearly as good, and quieter, is the Kenmore 7118, $750; it offers a lot more storage space. Among bottom-freezers, the Amana Distinctions DRB1801A, $695, is a good value, at several hundred dollars less than the other bottom-freezers we tested.
Midrange ($850 to $1,800) The real bargain among side-by-side refrigerators is the GE GSS25JFM, $890, a CR Best Buy. If you’re looking for a bottom-freezer, the GE GBS22LB, $1,050, offers the best combination of performance, capacity and flexibility.
High-end ($1,800 to $5,000) Two side-by-side, cabinet-depth refrigerators are less expensive than true built-ins and performed well overall: the Whirlpool Gold GC5THGXK, $2,300, is slightly more efficient and quieter than the GE Profile Arctica PSI23NGM, $2,300. Whirlpool is also among the more reliable side-by-side brands.
The Sub-Zero 650/F, $4,600, is the ablest bottom-freezer built-in that we tested. It’s very energy efficient. But it’s noisier than the others, and reliability is a concern with the brand. The GE Monogram ZIC360NM, $3,900, is almost as good, and it’s quieter.
KITCHENAID® STAINLESS STEEL BUILT-IN LAUNDRY SYSTEM OFFERS HIGH STYLE AND HIGH PERFORMANCE FOR THE MODERN LAUNDRY ROOM
April 20, 2008
From a name long associated with well appointed, high-end kitchens
comes the ultimate in premium laundry equipment. Available this summer at a suggested retail price of
$6,998 for the pair, the completely stainless steel KitchenAid® Pro Line™ Fabric Care System is so quiet
and so elegantly designed that it can be situated in master suites, kitchens or other visible areas of the
home. For those looking to create a truly finished laundry room, the solid craftsmanship and stainless
steel construction virtually eliminates vibration, allowing the system to be built into custom cabinetry.
“Trends show consumers are turning their laundry areas into more of a sanctuary by incorporating
custom cabinetry and storage options along with items like televisions, coffeemakers and CD players,”
notes Brian Maynard, KitchenAid Marketing Director. “Laundry areas are evolving beyond the
barebones of just a washer and dryer to a more luxurious space to spend time in and the Pro Line™ Series
laundry pair offers a stylish, high performance option as the centerpiece for this space.”
In addition to a stainless steel exterior finish on all surfaces and stainless steel interior drums, the washer
and dryer system also features the first glass-encased, touch-sensor user interface controls ever offered in
a laundry system. Both appliances have internal and external glass windows and heavy duty brass capped
hoses to prevent leaking. Additional design elements include the washer’s exterior dispenser for
detergent, softener and bleach, and a conveniently located front-access mounted lint screen on the dryer.
Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has
built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. From
countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars, KitchenAid now
offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen. To learn why chefs choose KitchenAid for
their homes more than any other brand,** visit www.KitchenAid.com.
** Based on a September 2005 survey, KitchenAid was found to be the home kitchen appliance brand chosen most often by members of the
International Association of Culinary Professionals when asked about refrigerators, ovens, cooktops, ranges, dishwashers, microwave ovens,
electric mixers, blenders, food processors and toasters.
KITCHENAID ADDS METAL TOASTERS TO COUNTERTOP COLLECTION
April 20, 2008
KitchenAid, makers of the country’s best selling premium toaster, is
introducing two metal models in KitchenAid signature colors.
Featuring the industry’s most advanced bagel toasting function, the Baker’s Bagel™ Toasting option
allows for thorough toasting of sliced sides of the bagel while bottom sides are just gently browned. An
Even-Heat™ System with an electronic sensor reads toaster temperature and adapts toasting time
accordingly to ensure consistent browning slice after slice. A one touch warm button allows for the
reheating of previously toasted items without additional browning.
The new toasters will be available in June in two-slot and four-slot models at suggested retail prices of
$89.99 and $129.99, respectively. Color choices will include Blue Willow, Empire Red, Gloss
Cinnamon, Onyx Black and Stainless Steel.
“Like all appliances in our countertop collection, the new toasters combine the sleek styling, superior
durability and thoughtful features that consumers expect from KitchenAid,” notes Brian Maynard, Brand
Director, KitchenAid Marketing Director. “We anticipate that this line will become another favorite
among those who take great care in equipping their kitchens.”
Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has
built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. From
countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars, KitchenAid now
offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen. To learn why chefs choose KitchenAid for
their homes more than any other brand*, visit www.KitchenAid.com.
*Based on a September 2005 survey, KitchenAid was found to be the home kitchen appliance brand chosen most often by
members of the International Association of Culinary Professionals when asked about refrigerators, ovens, cooktops, ranges,
dishwashers, microwave ovens, electric mixers, blenders, food processors and toasters.
Toast the thickest bagels and English muffins perfectly using the industry’s most
advanced bagel toasting function. Baker’s Bagel™ Toasting gently browns the
bottom of the bagel while toasting the sides that are sliced.
ONE-TOUCH “WARM” BUTTON
One-touch buttons automatically set toaster for “warm” function. Press
“warm” to warm previously toasted items without additional browning.
DUAL INDEPENDENT CONTROLS
One-Touch Buttons and Dial Knobs for each pair of slots work independently
of each other. So you could toast a bagel in one pair, and make toast or warm
a pastry in the other.
EASY-TO-OPERATE DIAL SHADE CONTROLS
The simple dial knobs with detented stops control toasting levels with
precision – turn the dial knob clockwise for darker toast, counterclockwise
for lighter.
PRECISE TOASTING WITH THE EVEN-HEAT™ SYSTEM
Extra-thick mica boards hold the heavy gauge heating elements flat, for even
browning. A heat sensor ensures consistent toasting slice after slice.
EXTRA-WIDE SLOTS
Slots handle the thickest bagels, breads, and pastries easily.
EASY LIFT™ LEVER
A gentle lift on the side lever will cancel toasting and raise the toast.
SELF-CENTERING BREAD RACKS
Thick or thin breads are centered perfectly for even toasting.
ATTRACTIVE, RUGGED METAL HOUSING
All models feature metal construction for added durability and style.
CLASSIC STYLE
Front and top of all models wrapped in stylish brushed stainless steel.
Choose either brushed stainless steel side panels or designer-color, painted-steel
side panels.
COOL REACH™ STEEL SIDE PANELS
Reach more comfortably around this toaster. Heat shields inside the toaster
help keep the Cool Reach™ exterior steel side panels cooler.
STEEL INTERIOR
Steel offers the ultimate in durability and adds consistency to toasting.
Extra-deep toasting cavity helps ensure even browning.
REMOVABLE CRUMB TRAYS
Two, rugged steel, double-slot-width trays remove easily and
are dishwasher-safe.
UNDER BASE CORD WRAP
Cord can be kept out of sight and out of the way.
AVAILABLE IN STAINLESS STEEL AND DESIGNER COLORS
model color color code upc
KMTT400BW Blue Willow BW 883049 012520
KMTT400ER Empire Red ER 883049 012537
KMTT400GC Gloss Cinnamon GC 883049 012544
KMTT400OB Onyx Black OB 883049 012551
For more information,
callSPECIFICATIONS
AND DIMENSIONS
Dimensions in inches
(centimeters); weights in
pounds (kilograms)
Electrical Requirements
1440-watts, 120 volts A.C.,
60 Hz., single phase
product
Height 8.0 (20.3)
Width 12.6 (32.1)
Depth 11.0 (27.9)
Cord Length 42.0 (106.7)
Net Wt. 10 (4.5)
product carton
Height 10.9 (27.7)
Width 14.5 (36.8)
Depth 13.8 (34.9)
Shipping Wt. 11.5 (5.2)
master pack: 2 units
Height 11.3 (28.7)
Width 28.1 (71.5)
Depth 14.9 (37.8)
Shipping Wt. 25 (11.3)
Specifications subject to
change without notice.
HASSLE FREE, 1-YEAR
REPLACEMENT
WARRANTY
If this toaster
fails within
the first year,
KitchenAid
will deliver a
replacement free
of charge. It’s the
most consumer-
friendly warranty in
the industry!
KITCHENAID LAUNCHES MOST POWERFUL PREMIUM BLENDERS
April 20, 2008
KitchenAid is introducing a new line of blenders designed and built to be the most
powerful premium blender on the market. Launching with the 5-speed model in late spring, the blenders will be available
in an assortment of KitchenAid signature colors and metallic finishes.
“For those who love to cook and entertain, blenders can be a tremendously versatile tool,” says Brian Maynard,
KitchenAid Marketing Director. “The upgraded design, performance and durability of our new line offer even more
control and choices for preparing everything from smoothies and pureed vegetables to crushed ice and cocktails.”
The sturdiness of the blender is enhanced by a solid die-cast metal base and 0.9-hoursepower motor. The dishwasher safe
polycarbonate pitcher is ultra lightweight, scratch-resistant, stain-resistant and virtually unbreakable. At 56 fluid ounces,
it provides 40% more capacity than previous pitchers. The suggested retail prices on the blenders range from $129.99 to
$179.99 depending on the finish.
Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built on the
legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. From countertop appliances to cookware,
ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars, KitchenAid now offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped
kitchen. To learn why chefs choose KitchenAid for their homes more than any other brand*, visit www.KitchenAid.com.
*Based on a September 2005 survey, KitchenAid was found to be the home kitchen appliance brand chosen most often by members of the
International Association of Culinary Professionals when asked about refrigerators, ovens, cooktops, ranges, dishwashers, microwave ovens, electric
mixers, blenders, food processors and toasters.
KITCHENAID INTRODUCES INDUSTRY’S MOST POWERFUL SLOW COOKER
April 20, 2008
KitchenAid, known for its iconic Stand Mixer and other high-performance
kitchen equipment, has taken a popular kitchen tool to a new level with the introduction of the industry’s most
powerful premium slow cooker.
“When designing our slow cooker, our product development team left no stone unturned,” notes Brian Maynard,
KitchenAid Marketing Director. “Beyond being the most powerful, it offers thoughtful design and performance
features that are unique to KitchenAid and that cooks are sure to appreciate.”
With a 400-watt heating element, the new 7-quart KitchenAid™ slow cooker is the industry’s fastest at reaching
USDA recommended temperatures. A KitchenAid-exclusive Food-Temperature alert indicates when the
cooking temperature falls below the USDA recommended food safe temperature range. When the lid is
removed during cooking, or in the event of a power outage, its reserve power enables the cooker to quickly
regain optimum cooking temperatures.
Other features include a glass lid with a silicon seal to keep moisture in the cooker, a 10-hour programmable
timer, and a buffet setting to keep food warm for up to 10 hours.
Available this summer, the new slow cooker will carry a suggested retail price of $149.99. It will be offered in
Gloss Cinnamon, Onyx Black and Stainless Steel.
Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built
on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. From countertop
appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars, KitchenAid now offers virtually
every essential for the well-equipped kitchen. To learn why chefs choose KitchenAid for their homes more than
any other brand*, visit www.KitchenAid.com.
WHAT’S COOKING WITH COOK FOR THE CURE Three Ways Cooks Can Help Raise Funds for the Fight against Breast Cancer
April 20, 2008
Susan G. Komen for the Cure and KitchenAid are once
again offering those who love cooking and sharing good food a number of ways to support the
fight against breast cancer in October (National Breast Cancer Awareness Month) and
throughout the year. This ongoing fundraising initiative, Cook for the Cure®, has raised more
than $5 million for the cause since 2001.
New Pink Products.
Visit retailers nationwide or www.CookForTheCure.com to view the latest additions to the
KitchenAid pink product collection that generate donations to Komen for the Cure. New pink
products include a hand-held manual food chopper, a set of culinary tools with a crock, a 12-cup muffin
pan and an assortment of cutting boards. Also new this year is a set of two pink grill pans. Each pink
product that is purchased and then registered at www.CookForTheCure.com will generate a
donation of up to $50*. KitchenAid guarantees a minimum donation of $1 million to Komen for
the Cure in conjunction with the pink product collection for 2007.
Downloadable Kit for Hosting a Fundraising Party.
Anyone can follow the example of such culinary notables as Bobby Flay, Mario Batali, Sara
Moulton and Jacques Pepin by hosting their own Cook for the Cure® party. A new and
improved party kit from KitchenAid provides ideas for raising funds while hosting a party for
family and friends. More than 20 pages of recipes and tips provide all the tools needed for a
wonderful brunch, appetizer, dessert, or dinner party. Hosts also now have the chance to decide
if they want their donations to support a local Komen Affiliate or Komen’s national office.
“The Cook for the Cure® party kits represent an integral part of our program,” notes Deb
O’Connor, Senior Manager of Brand Experience, KitchenAid. “These kits allow foodies to raise
funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer by sharing their culinary talents with
loved ones.”
Consumers can visit www.CookForTheCure.com to download this kit and start planning a party
with a purpose.
Purchase Pink, Get A Free Gift.
Purchase any KitchenAid® countertop appliance from the pink product collection at
www.CookForTheCure.com or www.ShopKitchenAid.com through the end of October and
receive a free limited-edition Better Homes and Gardens® “Pink Plaid” cookbook by mail. The
collection includes the popular Artisan® Stand Mixer, 12-Cup Food Processor and 5-Speed
Blender (carrying suggested retail prices of $349.99, $249.99 and $149.99, respectively); each of
which generates a donation to the cause when registered on www.CookForTheCure.com.
About KitchenAid. Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first
dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line
of products designed for cooks. From countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators,
and whisks to wine cellars, KitchenAid now offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped
kitchen. To learn why chefs choose KitchenAid for their homes more than any other brand**,
visit www.KitchenAid.com.
About Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G.
Komen, she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982, that
promise became Susan G. Komen for the Cure and launched the global breast cancer movement.
Today, Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors
and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize
science to find the cures. Thanks to events like the Komen Race for the Cure, we have invested
nearly $1 billion to fulfill our promise, becoming the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated
to the fight against breast cancer in the world. For more information about Susan G. Komen for
the Cure, breast health or breast cancer, visit www.komen.org or call 1-800 I’M AWARE.
* During 2007, KitchenAid is proud to donate a minimum of $1,000,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure in
conjunction with its pink product collection. Consumers must register each pink product purchased at
cookforthecure.com to generate a donation. See cookforthecure.com for more details.
**Based on a September 2005 survey, KitchenAid was found to be the home kitchen appliance brand chosen most
often by members of the International Association of Culinary Professionals when asked about refrigerators, ovens,
cooktops, ranges, dishwashers, microwave ovens, electric mixers, blenders, food processors and toasters.
COOKING LEGEND JACQUES PEPIN WILL SHARE INFORMATION ON HOW YOU CAN HELP IN THE FIGHT AGAINST BREAST CANCER THIS MAY
April 20, 2008
In honor of the most important woman in all our lives, Jacques Pépin has joined forces with Cook for the
Cure to celebrate Mother’s Day. The program, a charitable partnership between KitchenAid and Susan G.
Komen for the Cure, gives those with a passion for cooking a way to support the fight against breast
cancer. To raise awareness of the disease and share culinary lessons learned from his mother, Pépin will
conduct a cooking demonstration and answer questions on-air via satellite.
Jacques Pépin, one of the world’s most well-respected chefs, is known not only for his delicious recipes,
but for his colorful anecdotes of growing up in France. His passion goes beyond cooking; he is also an
avid supporter of the fight against breast cancer. Pépin himself has hosted several Cook for the Cure
fundraising dinners and participated in auctions, helping raise tens of thousands of dollars for the cause.
With one woman diagnosed with breast cancer every three minutes, what better way to honor mothers
across America than to plan a Mother’s Day Brunch or host a fundraising party to help support the fight
against breast cancer?
In Pépin’s latest book, Chez Jacques: Traditions and Rituals of a Cook (Stewart Tabori & Chang,
May 2007), he shares warm memories of cooking with his mother and growing up in pre-war France,
where she owned a succession of humble restaurants. As discussed in the book, Pépin’s mother had an
incredible influence on his cooking. Young Jacques loved the heat, noise and adrenaline of her kitchens
and learned a lot under her watch. From the beginning, he knew he was destined to be a chef.
Join Pépin on Wednesday, May 9 to learn some of his favorite Mother’s Day Brunch ideas and
recipes from his own mother to help create great memories for your mom this year:
• “Crêpes à la Confiture”/”Crêpes with Jam or Chocolate.”
*This SMT is sponsored by “Cook for the Cure®, Presented by KitchenAid.”
Jacques Pépin is known to millions of Americans through his PBS cooking shows and more than 20
cookbooks. The Dean of Special Programs at The French Culinary Institute (New York) since 1988,
Pépin is an adjunct faculty member at Boston University. He is a founder of The American
Institute of Wine and Food and a member of the International Association of Cooking Professionals.
Pépin is currently starring in the PBS series Fast Food My Way.
About Cook for the Cure®. Cook for the Cure was created in 2001 to give those with a passion for
cooking a way to support Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the fight against breast cancer. To date, it has
raised almost $5 million through donation-with-purchase programs, special fundraising events, auctions,
grassroots initiatives, and involvement from culinary notables such as Jacques Pepin. Please visit
www.cookforthecure.com for more information and to find out how to host your own fundraising dinner.
KITCHENAID RAISES $5 MILLION GLOBALLY TO FIGHT BREAST CANCER
April 20, 2008
Thanks in large part to the success of pink countertop appliances and non-
electrics launched in recent years at the International Housewares Show, KitchenAid has topped the $5
million mark in raising funds globally for the fight against breast cancer through its Cook for the Cure®
program.
In the United States, Cook for the Cure® presented by KitchenAid is a partnership with Susan G. Komen
for the Cure and began with a donation-with-purchase promotion surrounding the iconic pink Stand
Mixer. The collection has grown significantly within the past 5 years, and each pink product generates a
donation of up to $50 to Komen for the Cure*.
Making their debut at this year’s Housewares Show are a number of new pink products that raise money
for breast cancer research and education spanning the cookware, bakeware, cutlery, pantryware, tool and
gadget categories. The sale of each item will generate a donation of 10% of the retail price to Komen for
the Cure, an organization that has been leading the global movement to end breast cancer forever, for the
past 25 years.
The first item in the collection, the pink KitchenAid stand mixer, will continue to generate a $50 donation
with each sale.
The newest pink KitchenAid products include a twin skillet set (MSRP: $49.99), a silicone 12-cup muffin
pan (MSRP: $29.99) a crock with tools set (MSRP: $24.99), a silicone basting brush (MSRP: $8.99), a
flat grater (MSRP: $5.99), and a set of four prep bowls (MSRP: $9.99).
Launched by KitchenAid in 2001 to give those with a passion for cooking a way to support the cause,
Cook for the Cure® raises funds in the United States and other countries through donation with purchase
programs, culinary auctions and events, and a grass roots initiative that encourages consumers to host
their own “party with a purpose” to generate donations from family and friends. Cook for the Cure® has
drawn the support of many of the country’s most celebrated
chefs, including Mario Batali, Bobby Flay, Emeril Lagasse, Mary Sue Milliken, Susan Feniger, Sara
Moulton, Jacques Pepin and others.
Whirpool to make India export hub for Kitchenaid
April 20, 2008
US-based Whirpool Corporation is likely to make India the export hub for its small appliances brand, Kitchenaid. It has already set up a global design and development centre for the Kitchenaid brand in Pondicherry.
Addressing newspersons on Wednesday, Mr Tamalkanti Saha, vice-president (sales) of Whirlpool of India said: “Under the Kitchenaid brand, we sell washing machines. We also export to eastern/western Europe including Russia, Pakistan, Middle East and Bangladesh. Which is why, our parent company may make India an export hub for Kitchenaid brands.”
The latest developments come in the backdrop of Whirlpool of India’s improved performance. Especially, since the company is poised to wipe out its accumulated losses of Rs 104.8 crore and perhaps post a net profit in 2007-08. The company has been in the red since 2002-03.
The US parent plans to invest $20 million (Rs 90 crore) in the Indian operations in the next 12-18 months to introduce high-end products in the country.
In this light, Mr Saha said: “In the first nine months (April-December) of 2006-07, Whirlpool of India posted an operating profit of Rs 44.2 million. The full year results are yet to be audited. But we do not think we will earn net profit in 2006-07.”
In the first nine months of 2006-07, the company had registered a turnover of Rs 1145 crore. Whirlpool has taken several steps to be back in the black. “We are taking care to make operations cost-efficient through better process and waste management. We are also re-engineering our product category and launching a new range of products to achieve robust topline growth,” added Mr Saha.
The company has also brought down its working capital requirement from 10.5% of turnover to 3.5% of turnover. “We are saving a lot on this account,” he added.
As part of its strategy to launch new products in the country, Whirlpool has decided to come up with a built-in range of products suited to modern day modular kitchens. The products will be launched in the early third quarter of this fiscal. It has also introduced 100% dryers for the first time in India.
The company, which is a leader in the `direct cool’ refrigerator category, produces 16 lakh direct cool refrigerators at its Faridabad factory. Similarly, it produces 6 lakh frost-free double door refrigerators at its Pune factory and 6.5 lakh washing machines at its Puducherry works. It imports air-conditioners from China to market in India.
The company, which recently launched its Mastermind range of refrigerator, aims to achieve a 27% marketshare in the refrigerator category this fiscal. “We are aiming at a 20% marketshare in washing machines and 10% marketshare in AC category this year,” Mr Saha added.
The company is looking at a 30% growth in exports this fiscal. In the first none months of 2006-07, the company has posted an export turnover of Rs 207 crore.