New UK Legislation

New Government plans in the UK are aimed at encouraging customers to have their white and brown goods repaired, rather than simply replacing them.

These plans will also mean that the extended warranty market for these products will undoubtedly shrink – while the requirements for spare parts will increase substantially.

Manufacturers will be required to guarantee their products for at least 7 years, and therefore ensure parts continue to be made for those products for the duration.

While this could possibly slow down the introduction of new technology, it will also have an impact on the supply chains. Existing suppliers will be required to continue producing old parts, while also being expected to develop and manufacture new parts.

Manufacturers that we deal with have indicated they will need to bring more sub-contractors on line to cope with this expected demand – good news for companies such as ourselves!

A Greener Future ?

These plans are aimed at reducing waste in the UK – but they may also help with our carbon footprint in other ways!

Many appliances used in the UK are imported, if these now last longer, those imports should reduce, in turn helping to lower the freight levels.

The theory is, that if a washing machine now lasts for 7 years instead of 5, that the demand for washing machines will go down. However, economic theory would then imply the original cost of these products would go up – compensating for the reduction in sales.

Unfortunately Human Nature and the need to have something new, or the latest technology will almost certainly prevail – and we’ll end up paying more for something we still throw out when it begins to look shabby !