As the only manufacturer in the United States with four premium brands – Bosch, Siemens, Thermador and Gaggenau – BSH Home Appliances Corporation, North America saw double-digit sales growth in 2007. In fact, the leading appliance manufacturer with U.S. operations in Huntington Beach, Calif., has shown record growth since 2003 and has consistently increased its sales performance on an annual basis. Much of this success can be attributed to the staggering number of new product innovations launched in the last few years, including built-in wall ovens, induction cooking technology, dishwashers and front-loading laundry.

"Several key factors contributed to our success in 2007, particularly the 37 new product launches that have led all four of our brands to now offer full coordinated kitchen suites, depending on the individual consumer’s lifestyle and cooking needs,” said Franz J. Bosshard, president and CEO, BSH Home Appliances Corp., North America. “Our premium brands have become the preeminent choice for consumers and builders, such as with Bosch, which is the leader in the energy-efficiency segment.” “There’s no doubt about it, BSH is the industry leader in launching new products and features that appeal to consumers today, under all four of its brands and in multiple product categories,” said Bud Gerhard, president, Gerhard’s Appliances (Pennsylvania).

In 2007, the company saw tremendous growth in both the front-loading laundry and dishwasher segments. Bosch launched its industry-exclusive feature, ECOACTIONTM, which helps consumers save up to 25% in energy, with just the push of a button. The brand also launched a comprehensive “It Pays to be Green” consumer promotion on a national level, while it was awarded the 2007 Excellence in ENERGY STAR® Promotion Award, 2007 Annual Flex Your Power Award, and was ranked highest in customer satisfaction for the second consecutive year by J.D. Power and Associates (in the dishwasher category in the 2007 Major Home Appliance Study). Siemens launched its ingenious wall ovens with a unique slide control, while Thermador unveiled a dynamic new design platform to its entire full-line, incorporating chiseled edges, bold profiles and high-grade elements such as stainless steel knobs. Additionally, Gaggenau debuted its dramatic wall oven which has a rising bottom plate.

As a result of its dynamic growth, BSH has streamlined its operations to support its future development. In particular, the company has implemented direct-market service to its retailers in such territories as Florida, and also consolidated a handful of regional offices into one back-end operation in Houston. This centrally-located facility now provides improved service, training and more, both internally and externally.

Looking into 2008, BSH’s four premium brands have a number of key product introductions they will launch. This includes Bosch’s new 24” compact Axxis® Laundry, now offering the largest capacity on the market; full Siemens kitchens featuring high-tech appliances perfect for luxury loft developments; Thermador gas cooktops, and electric cooktops with infrared sensor technology, a first in the industry; and Gaggenau’s “First Professionals” program to target new customers to the brand. The company will also provide comprehensive retail and consumer programming to support its network of independent and major retailers, as well as the builder channel.