The same applies right across the board - unless the basics are right, the appliance isn't good value for money. A customer on a limited budget can manage without an electronic touch control programmer on an oven - but only if the lower priced alternative is easy to use. Similarly a ten function oven isn't an essential - but the oven the customer can afford must be able to perform basic static and fan cooking functions just as well as a more expensive model from the same manufacturer.

Affordable isn't affordable without back up. There is little point in buying something cut price if there is no fall back if it goes wrong. Service on some more obscure brands (whether affordable or expensive) can be really dire and can sometimes involve a wait of several weeks before the problem is solved - especially if the customer lives in a rural area.

Every appliance comes with the standard one year parts and labour guarantee - but how is this backed up ? Does the company have its own engineer force and customer service department to deal with consumer problems - or have these things been contracted out to a third party? Being able to assure the customer that the manufacturer is contactable, in charge of servicing and that parts are readily available adds to the value of the purchase.

For further information, please contact 01949 862010 or visit www.cda.eu

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