2022.08.10
Electrolux launches program to promote circular economy
Electrolux is committed to contributing to the circular economy by integrating a circular approach into its appliances. As an industry leader, Electrolux is launching a Appliance-as-a-Serviceprogram for landlords and has signed a contract with one of Sweden's largest landlords, SKB - Stockholms Kooperativa Bostadsförening, as its first customer.
Rental companies are throwing away white goods unnecessarily. A white good that breaks down and needs to be repaired or replaced can cause hassle and difficulties for the landlord. It also means that a tenant cannot cook, clean their clothes or wash the dishes, all while the landlord orders a repair or a replacement product. Today, 68 percent of Swedish landlords also throw away white goods unnecessarily, which certainly does not contribute to the circular economy, according to Vinnova's research*.
SKB first out
First up is SKB (Stockholms Kooperativa Bostadsförening) which, with this new subscription-based business model, pays a monthly fee for which Electrolux installs, maintains and repairs the products, extends the life of the appliance and reduces the carbon footprint of the property stock. When a replacement of a white goods is needed, Electrolux will also monitor the reuse through renovation and recycling of the valuable components of the white goods. The program is available to all housing companies and landlords; private, municipal, cooperative, new construction projects, student housing and holiday villages among others.
Appliance-as-a-Service-program
”Our new Appliance-as-a-Service program is an innovative and sustainable business model that contributes to a more circular economy. It means that landlords and tenants can reduce their environmental impact, while making everyday life easier for them. We look forward to developing this service in other markets.”, says Stefan Borgquist, Senior Category Manager Product as a Service in BA Europe, Electrolux.
Electrolux has ambitious sustainability goals and the sustainability framework For the better 2030 defines how Electrolux works to achieve better solutions for sustainability. The Appliance-as-a-Service program for landlords is an example of a ”better solution” that promotes the circular economy and enables society to achieve environmental goals.
”At Electrolux, we strive to be a leader in circular solutions where it matters. This new business model for housing companies is a way for us to take responsibility for optimizing the lifespan of white goods and making it sustainably better for us, our customers and the planet,” says Peter Spencer, VP Consumer Direct Interaction BA Europe, Electrolux.
The program will be rolled out to additional markets later this year, starting in Europe.
*Vinnova's joint research project in Sweden, where three landlords and Electrolux have interviewed the 24 largest housing companies ("Home appliance-based functional services for housing companies", 2019).
Source and image: Press release, Electrolux July 15, 2022
