Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC has introduced a different model of innovative refrigerator, equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and energy-efficient technologies - marking a milestone in Bangladesh's home appliance industry.
The newly-introduced multimedia-enabled smart fridges have advanced features including AI-powered diagnostic systems and cutting-edge inverter and hygiene technologies.
"We've recently unveiled seven new models of refrigerators, featuring some of the most advanced smart technologies in the world, including AI and IoT," Tanvir Anjum, Business Coordinator to the Managing Director of Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC, told the FE.
"These include an 8-in-1 convertible smart refrigerator with a 21.5-inch Android display and Dolby sound system, and a three-door side-by-side model equipped with our proprietary AI Doctor," he said.
One of the flagship models is a 620-litre 'Multimedia Hub' fridge that combines home entertainment with refrigeration, he said, adding that it features an Android touch-screen interface offering YouTube, online grocery shopping, internet browsing, selfie camera, offline media playback, and weather updates.
"This fridge is not only a smart one, but also it's a complete multimedia hub," Mr. Anjum said.
The fridge even uses MSO (Matrix Speed Optimisation) plus inverter technology to automatically adjust cooling based on the room temperature, reducing electricity bills while keeping food fresh and safe, according to him.
Another standout model - a 560-litre three-door fridge - also features MSO inverter technology alongside multiple cooling modes including turbo and holiday settings.
But its key innovation is Walton's AI Doctor System, the company executive said.
"It diagnoses issues in real-time," Anjum explained. "If it can't fix the problem itself, it immediately alerts the nearest service centre - often before the user even notices anything is wrong," he said.
All new models offer smart remote control via smartphone, ensuring global connectivity. Additional innovations include UV-C light and Intelligent Germ Terminator technology, preserving food by killing airborne bacteria, while a three-layer odour-safe guard prevents cross-contamination of smells, Mr. Anjum mentioned.
"We've designed every component of these fridges keeping in mind health, efficiency, and user convenience," he said.
Apart from keeping the prices of its refrigerators within the reach of local consumers ahead of the Eid-Ul-Adha, the company is eyeing export market also, according to the company sources.
The newly-introduced smart refrigerators have been designed in such a manner that it offers advanced features, affordability, and reliability to the buyers of both domestic and international markets, they said.
Walton is also targeting a broad consumer base with over 100 refrigerator models currently available, ranging from BDT 15,000 to BDT 200,000.
"We cater to the need of all income groups. Our pricing is extremely competitive - even our smart Android refrigerator is available for under BDT 200,000, while global competitors charge over BDT 300,000," Anjum said.
To make purchases even easier for the consumers, Walton offers zero-interest installment plans for six months, with options for extending it up to 36 months.
Under its 'Hire Purchase and Family Protection Policy', customers also receive financial assistance if needed, he mentioned.
Walton has launched the 'Digital Campaign Season 22' from February 20 last, targeting the Eid-Ul-Adha, Mr. Anjum said.
"Every buyer is guaranteed with a gift and some even become millionaires," he said.
Walton's dominance in the domestic market is backed by its unmatched after-sales supports - including a 1-year replacement guarantee, a 12-year compressor warranty, and up to 5 years of free service through its 86 ISO-certified service centres, he noted.
"Our service network is the largest and most trusted in the country," said Mr. Anjum.
The key to Walton's continued leadership is based on its sustained investment in research, innovation, and automation, according to the company executive.
"We have one of South Asia's largest Research and Innovation Centres in our Chandra high-tech park, staffed by engineers from Bangladesh, Korea, Italy, China, and Taiwan," said Anjum. "Thanks to their efforts, Bangladesh became the first country in South Asia to produce French-door fridges and the world's first 8-in-1 convertible side-by-side refrigerators," he said.
In terms of sustainability, Walton has led the region by introducing 5-star BSTI-certified energy-efficient models and phasing out CFC and HCFC gases in partnership with the Department of Environment and UNDP.
The available models use R600a and R290 refrigerants, which reduce carbon emissions and cut electricity use, they added.
"Environmentally friendly, energy-saving fridges are our top priority," said Mr. Anjum.
Despite rising inflation and increased import costs, Walton continues to offer affordable appliances for lower- and middle-income families, he noted.
"Since we began commercial production in 2008, we've worked to make fridges accessible to everyone, not just for the elite," he said.
On the global front, Walton refrigerators are now exported to over 50 countries, including India, Nepal, Turkey, Iraq, Nigeria, and Austria, according to him
"We exported nearly 100,000 refrigerators last fiscal year. By 2026, our target is to reach 500,000," Anjum said.
To meet that target, the company has expanded its Global Business Team, established a research centre in South Korea, and acquired three renowned European electronics brands - ACC, ZEM, and VOE, he mentioned.
"We've also showcased our products at global expositions like CES in Las Vegas and the Canton Fair in China. Walton is no longer just a national brand - it's a growing international player," Anjum added.
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