Welcome to the December/January issue of ERT.
You can view this month’s digital issue here.
Editor’s comment: “First thing’s first, I’d like to introduce myself as the new Editor of ERT magazine. To say I’m excited about this opportunity is a bit of an understatement, and I look forward to learning more about this fast-paced, vibrant industry while I’m out and about over the coming weeks and months.
“And what a fantastic time to be involved! Technology is changing at a rapid pace and consumers are now increasingly savvy about how and where they spend their money, so there’s never been a more important time for retailers. There are some very exciting technological developments happening right now, and staying abreast of these is crucial in order to offer consumers the most comprehensive service possible. To that end, this issue looks ahead at the trends that retailers should be aware of, if they’re not already, and the products that will be hitting the shelves over the coming year.
“Our home electronics and home appliances future tech trends features highlight some of the emerging products and ideas coming from manufacturers. Smart connectivity continues to be a key theme with things like voice control becoming more popular, not just in the living room, but the kitchen as well, and artificial intelligence, while still in its early stages, is a key feature that’s likely to be the biggest driver of change and product and service development over the coming years.
“Also this month, I speak to Matthew Todd from Herbert Todd & Son, the multi-award winning company from the ERT Awards back in October. I was keen to find out about his relocated store, the changes he implemented in the move and the effect these had on the business up to now. Spoiler alert – their new cooking demonstration events are proving to be a tasty treat!
“Herbert Todd & Son was the recipient of this year’s ERT Turning Point Award, and on that note, we will be continuing our Turning Point campaign to help retailers look at revitalising this sector by highlighting the key issues they are facing and finding solutions to introduce new ideas and create new opportunities. Our work will continue to spread this message and, as always, we’re keen to hear from those of you that are doing things a bit differently and who don’t mind sharing a few of your tips for success! And the Turning Point Live! event will return next autumn, of course.
“I’d also like to take this opportunity to say thank you and good luck to Sean Hannam; throughout his time on ERT he forged a path for the magazine to be the leading voice of electrical retailing and ensured it was a name that was recognised across the industry. There’s no doubt that I’ve got big shoes to fill as I help lead the mag into its future stages of development, but we wish Sean all the very best in his new ventures.
“And, lastly, I want to wish all our readers a very merry Christmas and I hope you all have a prosperous start to 2019.”
Jack Cheeseman – Editor
