The Major Appliance Industry in the United States in 2002The appliance industry is huge! The number of household appliances grows every year, but there is one sector of the industry, the main household appliance sector, which remains constant. The household appliances that make up this sector are cookers, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers. The major home appliance industry is saturated and mature. The five major players are General Electric, Maytag, Whirlpool, Electrolux and Raytheon. All are well established in the industry and have been important players for many years. Before World War II, most appliance manufacturers produced a limited line of appliances derived from a single successful product. For example, General Electric produced refrigerators and Maytag focused on washing machines. During this period a company was reluctant to enter another company's market. It wasn't until 1945 that companies began offering full lines of various appliances. The industry nearly doubled in size during the 1960s, as sales of several products increased rapidly. Sales continued to increase in the 1970s despite high interest rates and inflation. During the 1980s the industry began to expand, thanks to the acceptance of the microwave by US consumers. In the 1990s, US manufacturers offered a full range of products even if they did not produce the items themselves. In 2002, new technologies and designs were being introduced into major home appliances. Due to government pressure, appliance manufacturers were introducing energy-efficient versions of refrigerators and washing machines. Today's kitchens are often the entertainment center of the home. Many consumers demand beautiful, affordable and easy-to-clean appliances. Many consumers are willing to pay high prices for the best appliances that enhance their decor and save precious time. Manufacturers have responded to consumer demands by producing smart home appliances with sophisticated electronic controls and self-diagnosis capabilities. The major appliance industry is a stable and profitable industry, although it is mature and saturated in the United States, there are many growth opportunities available overseas. The industry will always be influenced by interest rates, new home construction, kitchen remodeling and the market for replacement appliances, but as long as consumers need to care for clothes and prepare food, there will always be a market for main household appliances. Fact no. 1: One concern for appliance manufacturers is the environmental and government regulatory standards they must adhere to.