WHAT INNOVATION MEANS TO APPLIANCES

WHAT INNOVATION MEANS TO APPLIANCES 

 

We have steadily applied innovation and change to our operations since Fisher & Paykel's inception over 70 years ago. In New Zealand we pioneered a very simple but effective novelty - that of designating exclusive dealers, something which was unheard of. This provided the first platform for our growth.

Decades later, a conscious decision was made to begin creating our own designs. We actively sought the best industrial design and engineering skills available and began
forging a close knit team of around 15 designers and 300 engineers. In spurring their efforts, our overall culture of freedom and entrepreneurship has been present since the days of foundation which has lead them to create wonderful products because no one is afraid of taking a chance.

The family company feeling has always been present. Though some of these elements are difficult to quantify, clearly something is going very well as we have now tackled the Asian and American markets successfully. We've found a natural position at the high end of the US market.

An open, casual "fearless" culture can pay some unexpected benefits. A couple of our engineers were relaxing over a beer in the office one night loosely talking about design. One of them had his feet up on a filing cabinet, reclining comfortably in his chair. It dawned on them that a drawer would be the most efficient method for an automatic dishwasher. We went on to produce the unique and very successful DishDrawer dishwasher, a major hit worldwide!

Michael Church, chief operating officer,
Fisher & Paykel

Source