In the world of home appliances, Unique Appliances Ltd. has carved out a distinctive niche over the past three decades. Founded with the mission to deliver exceptional, reliable appliances that enhance the joy of gathering and sharing meals, Unique Appliances has built a tradition of crafting well-built, one-of-a-kind products. Their goal is clear: to bring innovative, quality appliances to wherever customers call home. Known for their well-made, uniquely designed appliances at affordable prices, Unique has become a trusted source for consumers seeking something extraordinary.
At Unique, their commitment to integrity and high-end materials shines through in every product. This dedication to quality and design-savvy solutions has cemented its reputation for dependable appliances that don’t compromise on style. They believe that great products should be accessible to everyone, and their investment in cost-efficient manufacturing processes—without cutting corners—allows them to pass significant savings to consumers.
Over the years, Unique has expanded its offerings to include a wide selection of gas ranges, bottom-mount refrigerators, and freezers in both conventional and retro designs. Their growth now includes electric and solar-powered appliances available in various colors, reflecting their continuous innovation to meet the evolving needs of today’s consumers. In this interview, Steven Schell, CEO, and Mathieu Kernaleguen, Vice President of Sales, share insights into the company’s journey, their commitment to quality, and their vision for the future.
TWICE: Can you share a brief history of Unique Appliances and how the company has evolved over the past 30 years?
Unique Appliances (UA): Unique Appliances started as a propane refrigeration company over 30 years ago, and as the company grew to be very successful in the off-grid space, it added propane ranges and solar refrigerators. In 2019, Unique Appliances created the Prestige line, compact and design-focused appliances for smaller dwellings. In 2020, Unique added the Classic retro line, starting with smaller refrigerators and freezers. They realized the demand for retro styling and have grown this line to full-size kitchen appliances, and most recently their Pro package which includes a French Door refrigerator, and a 36” Gas range.
TWICE: What inspired the founding of Unique Appliances, and how has the company’s mission influenced its product development?
Unique Appliances (UA): The Founder, Kurt Peterson’s goal was to bring innovative, quality appliances to wherever customers call home.
TWICE: How does Unique Appliances ensure its products meet the company’s standards of quality and reliability?
Unique Appliances (UA): The same quality and testing practices that have been used for 30+ years are used today. As you can imagine, some of the off-grid appliances are being taken by truck, then boat or plane, up a mountain or through forests, to their destination. We apply those same testing measures to our Major Appliances, the Prestige and the Classic line.
TWICE: What makes Unique Appliances stand out in terms of design and functionality compared to other brands?
Unique Appliances (UA): We carry 3 niche product lines, and particularly in our Classic retro line, customers love the true retro style, well-built appliances that have modern technology. Retro is a category that is expected to grow significantly over the next decade.
TWICE: Can you discuss any recent innovations or new products that Unique Appliances has introduced to the market?
Unique Appliances (UA): Unique Appliances recently launched 2 new products in the Classic retro line: a Pro style 22 cu/ft French Door Refrigerator, as well as a 12 cu/ ft refrigerator in 7 colors. We also launched a new product in our Off-Grid lineup, a 12 cu/ft solar DC refrigerator.
TWICE: How does Unique Appliances balance contemporary design trends with the timeless appeal of retro designs?
Unique Appliances (UA): It is important to us to maintain the true retro design, which requires precision customization and engineering. Customers love the nostalgic look, with the functionality of innovative, new technology.
TWICE: How does Unique Appliances balance innovative design with affordability?
Unique Appliances (UA): It is a fine line- we are always looking to pass on any savings to our customers, without sacrificing quality. Feedback from our customers has enabled us to become successful and produce the right products in demand.
TWICE: Who is the target audience for Unique Appliances, and how do you ensure your products meet their needs?
Unique Appliances (UA): We have 3 niche product lines and 3 different types of customers. Our off-grid customer is typically someone who is living in an area where there is no electricity or is purchasing one of our portable units, perhaps for hunting or camping. The Prestige line targets those who have smaller homes, condominiums, and apartments. It is designed focused and the appliances come in stainless steel, white, and black.
Lastly, our Classic Retro line targets baby boomers, as well as millennials. Millennials are in love with simplicity, nostalgia, colors, and great quality. Our Classic retro appliances attract designers, influencers, and home builders because they can be used in a variety of homes. Appliances CAN be the accent in the kitchen; instead of the boring “sea of stainless” that is out there.
TWICE: Can you share any success stories or testimonials from customers who have used Unique Appliances in their homes or businesses?
Unique Appliances (UA): Here are some testimonials:
- Unique Appliance Classic Retro Range Hood (5 stars) – “Beautiful retro look. Sturdy, strong, and effective vent.”
- Unique Appliance Classic Retro Gas Range (5 stars) – “Unique has done it again. Great Canadian company with great design and durability.”
- Unique Appliance Classic Retro Refrigerator (5 stars) – “This refrigerator is the Cadillac of refrigerators. With such a sleek and classic look, it’s an effortless centerpiece of my kitchen. I’m so proud of this little baby.”
TWICE: What steps does Unique Appliances take to ensure the use of high-end materials in its products?
Unique Appliances (UA): Quality is our first priority, and there are no shortcuts. Materials are carefully selected and tested before putting anything into production phase.
TWICE: How does the company maintain its reputation for creating dependable appliances?
Unique Appliances (UA): The best practices we have used for off-grid appliances for over 30 years are still used when developing new products. We test everything in our facility to ensure it meets our quality control requirements before launching.
TWICE: How does Unique Appliances work with retailers, distributors, and buying groups to ensure successful partnerships?
SS: Unique Appliances prides themselves on being a great business partner. We are selective to ensure every partnership aligns with our overall growth strategy while supporting our partners in their growth. Independent retail and having a presence on sales floors is key for our growth, and our brand building across North America.
TWICE: Can you discuss any upcoming initiatives or collaborations that Unique Appliances is excited about?
Unique Appliances (UA): We have several TikTok and designer partnerships in the works, and much of the hype is surrounding our new French Door refrigerator, as well as our 12 cu/ ft refrigerator in 7 colors. Once customers and retailers see these products in person, they are in love.
TWICE: What are some of the future goals for Unique Appliances in terms of product offerings and market expansion?
Unique Appliances (UA): We want to continue to innovate and be the leaders in all 3 niche product lines. We have a ton of growth opportunities in North America, and we have been building a robust sales team coast to coast to support the expansion.
TWICE: How is Unique Appliances adapting to current trends in the appliance industry, such as sustainability?
Unique Appliances (UA): Sustainability is very important to Unique, and a key factor in product development. Every refrigerator is Energy Certified and we are continuously looking at ways to improve our components and packaging to ensure they are environmentally friendly, without sacrificing quality.
TWICE: What can retailers, distributors, and buying groups expect from Unique Appliances in the coming years?
Unique Appliances (UA): A ton of innovation, quality, growth, and fun! We like to do things a lot differently than traditional appliance brands, and we are excited to continue to grow to meet customer demands.
TWICE: What new markets or regions are Unique Appliances looking to expand into, and what strategies will you employ to achieve this?
Unique Appliances (UA): We have certain parts of the country mapped out with distributors, and retailers, as well as direct support from our field sales team. We have been fortunate to partner with great retailers thus far, and we can confidently say that our strategy is working.
For more information, go to www.uniqueappliances.com or contact Mathieu Kernaleguen VP Sales at mathieu@uniqueappliances.com.
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