Top 10 Ping Pong Products from the 2014 IHHS
The AIMsights Group continued our tradition of selecting the Top 10 Products for Millennials at the International Home and Housewares Show, but with a twist this year. AIMsights’ new collaboration brings expanded expertise in the Baby Boomer generation and so this year, we incorporated the Boomer perspective as well, identifying our Top 10 Ping Pong Products. “Ping Pong Branding” describes the sharing of brand preferences and product recommendations, back-and-forth, from one generation to another. It occurs when a Millennial tells a Boomer about a new smartphone or when a Boomer shares a great traditional cookware item with a Millennial. These two generations have a lot more in common than prior generations and they like to share advice. Their unique relationship creates new opportunities to drive sales and build intergenerational brand loyalty.
At the Housewares Show, AIMsights also introduced our new M@B Blueprint, a marketing tool that provides a methodical way of looking at the Millennials and Boomers as individual groups of consumers, as well as exploring how the two generations influence each other and drive sales.
Below are our picks for the Top 10 Ping Pong Products that use the M@B principles and ideas in appealing to both generations. Click on each item to read more about its intergenerational appeal.
Which item is your personal favorite and why? Which do you feel has the most potential to appeal to both groups? How do you think each group would use the product(s)?
1. Artland Lotus Grill
Is there anything better than firing up the grill for a summer afternoon barbecue with family and friends? The universal appeal of grilling in the U.S. led us to take a closer look at the Lotus Grill, but certain features appeal specifically to Millennial and Boomer consumers. Millennials are big fans of traditional activities and any food that evokes a cozy sense of nostalgia, but they are time-crunched and space-poor. Many Baby Boomers are downsizing after children have moved out and they don’t want to deal with the hassle and mess of traditional grills. Enter: Lotus Grill. It’s small, lightweight, battery-operated, easy to disassemble, and dishwasher-safe, virtually eliminating the pain points of traditional grills.
Is there anything better than firing up the grill for a summer afternoon barbecue with family and friends? The universal appeal of grilling in the U.S. led us to take a closer look at the Lotus Grill, but certain features appeal specifically to Millennial and Boomer consumers. Millennials are big fans of traditional activities and any food that evokes a cozy sense of nostalgia, but they are time-crunched and space-poor. Many Baby Boomers are downsizing after children have moved out and they don’t want to deal with the hassle and mess of traditional grills. Enter: Lotus Grill. It’s small, lightweight, battery-operated, easy to disassemble, and dishwasher-safe, virtually eliminating the pain points of traditional grills.
2. Beaba Babycook Pro
AIMsights’ industry report MILLENNIALS At HOME…IN THE KITCHEN explains that Millennials are a health-conscious generation. They are also a distrustful generation, as confirmed by the recent Pew study.The idea of preparing their baby’s food and knowing exactly what goes into each meal is extremely appealing to Millennial parents. Steaming the food before blending also helps retain vitamins and minerals. Babycook Pro encourages parents to add spices and flavors that the family regularly eats to encourage easy transition to solid foods. The Babycook serving-size silicone freezing trays make it easy for a busy parent to prepare multiple meals ahead of time, freeze them, and then, when needed, pop the frozen serving into the Pro machine to heat it up. AIMsights’ research identifies that Millennials look to Boomers for advice on child-rearing and parenting. Reaching the Boomer market will help Beaba establish their authority in this market space.
AIMsights’ industry report MILLENNIALS At HOME…IN THE KITCHEN explains that Millennials are a health-conscious generation. They are also a distrustful generation, as confirmed by the recent Pew study.The idea of preparing their baby’s food and knowing exactly what goes into each meal is extremely appealing to Millennial parents. Steaming the food before blending also helps retain vitamins and minerals. Babycook Pro encourages parents to add spices and flavors that the family regularly eats to encourage easy transition to solid foods. The Babycook serving-size silicone freezing trays make it easy for a busy parent to prepare multiple meals ahead of time, freeze them, and then, when needed, pop the frozen serving into the Pro machine to heat it up. AIMsights’ research identifies that Millennials look to Boomers for advice on child-rearing and parenting. Reaching the Boomer market will help Beaba establish their authority in this market space.
3. Charles Viancin Silicone Lids
The gorgeous, colorful display at the Housewares Show attracted us to the Charles Viancin booth, and we’re glad it did! The functionality of these lids is fantastic: they’re reusable, can be used with any glass, ceramic, or wood container, and they create an airtight, water-tight seal to keep food fresh and prevent spills. But it’s the beauty they infused into the product that elevates it from purely functional. The nature-inspired designs include lily pad, cherry blossom, sunflower, and even pumpkin for fall, allowing consumers to add a touch of interest to their homes. Socially conscious, “Goodie Two Shoes” Millennials will enjoy the waste-saving, reusable aspect of these lids, and that they are an alternative to the clutter of the dreaded “Tupperware drawer”. Boomers, with a bit more disposable income, are sure to appreciate the design aesthetic as a way to add personality and style to their kitchen.
The gorgeous, colorful display at the Housewares Show attracted us to the Charles Viancin booth, and we’re glad it did! The functionality of these lids is fantastic: they’re reusable, can be used with any glass, ceramic, or wood container, and they create an airtight, water-tight seal to keep food fresh and prevent spills. But it’s the beauty they infused into the product that elevates it from purely functional. The nature-inspired designs include lily pad, cherry blossom, sunflower, and even pumpkin for fall, allowing consumers to add a touch of interest to their homes. Socially conscious, “Goodie Two Shoes” Millennials will enjoy the waste-saving, reusable aspect of these lids, and that they are an alternative to the clutter of the dreaded “Tupperware drawer”. Boomers, with a bit more disposable income, are sure to appreciate the design aesthetic as a way to add personality and style to their kitchen.
4. Janome Derby Line
Crafting is “hot” with Millennials. Just look at the popularity of sites like Etsy and Pinterest! Traditional activities like crafting provide a huge opportunity for Ping Pong Branding because Boomers have existing knowledge and expertise on the topic. The Janome Derby line features a petite, five pound model that is perfect for the space-limited Millennial who wants to check some Pinterest sewing projects off their list. The price point makes it affordable, but its 10-stitch settings provide all the functionality of a larger machine. For Boomers, the Derby Line is the perfect way to rediscover an old passion, with a refreshing update to a classic machine. The portability of this compact, lightweight machine is also perfect for group crafting activities like quilting. Plus, the fun colors allow both groups to express their personality!
Crafting is “hot” with Millennials. Just look at the popularity of sites like Etsy and Pinterest! Traditional activities like crafting provide a huge opportunity for Ping Pong Branding because Boomers have existing knowledge and expertise on the topic. The Janome Derby line features a petite, five pound model that is perfect for the space-limited Millennial who wants to check some Pinterest sewing projects off their list. The price point makes it affordable, but its 10-stitch settings provide all the functionality of a larger machine. For Boomers, the Derby Line is the perfect way to rediscover an old passion, with a refreshing update to a classic machine. The portability of this compact, lightweight machine is also perfect for group crafting activities like quilting. Plus, the fun colors allow both groups to express their personality!
5. Lodge Silicone Trivet
Cast iron cookware is making a comeback in a major way and is a fantastic example of Ping Pong Branding. Cast iron is a traditional cookware material that Millennials are adopting and sharing with their Boomer parents, who may have forgotten about the benefits. To support their traditional line of cast iron products, Lodge unveiled their new silicone trivet at the Housewares Show. These 7” square silicone trivets feature a simple graphic that, on closer inspection, are perfectly aligned little skillets. The little skillets serve on each side of the mat, removing heat from the pan and protecting the counter or table. Cast iron gets hot, really hot, and these trivets protect surfaces up to 500 degrees. As Millennials and Boomers ping pong cast iron cookware back and forth, these functional mats come in handy, keeping surfaces safe while adding a pop of color.
Cast iron cookware is making a comeback in a major way and is a fantastic example of Ping Pong Branding. Cast iron is a traditional cookware material that Millennials are adopting and sharing with their Boomer parents, who may have forgotten about the benefits. To support their traditional line of cast iron products, Lodge unveiled their new silicone trivet at the Housewares Show. These 7” square silicone trivets feature a simple graphic that, on closer inspection, are perfectly aligned little skillets. The little skillets serve on each side of the mat, removing heat from the pan and protecting the counter or table. Cast iron gets hot, really hot, and these trivets protect surfaces up to 500 degrees. As Millennials and Boomers ping pong cast iron cookware back and forth, these functional mats come in handy, keeping surfaces safe while adding a pop of color.
6. Nespresso VertuoLine
Nespresso has long been a leader in at-home, single-serve espresso machines. Their new full-cup coffee machine delivers the same top-of-the-line experience. The new Centrifusion technology guarantees a rich, deeply-flavored cup of coffee, and a layer of foamy delicious crema accompanies each cup, delivering a truly gourmet experience. The VertuoLine will appeal to Boomers who want to treat themselves to this luxury and pamper their guests. The product will appeal to “Generation G” Millennials, who are willing to invest in a top-quality piece that delivers a gourmet experience. The VertuoLine’s versatility is an important factor, with the option to brew both coffee and espresso. It truly appeals to all tastes.
Nespresso has long been a leader in at-home, single-serve espresso machines. Their new full-cup coffee machine delivers the same top-of-the-line experience. The new Centrifusion technology guarantees a rich, deeply-flavored cup of coffee, and a layer of foamy delicious crema accompanies each cup, delivering a truly gourmet experience. The VertuoLine will appeal to Boomers who want to treat themselves to this luxury and pamper their guests. The product will appeal to “Generation G” Millennials, who are willing to invest in a top-quality piece that delivers a gourmet experience. The VertuoLine’s versatility is an important factor, with the option to brew both coffee and espresso. It truly appeals to all tastes.
7. Objecto H3 Hybrid Humidifier
One comment we often hear from Millennials is that they want products to do double-duty. Unlike older generations, they prefer multi-function capability and appreciate products that perform more than one task. The Objecto humidifier performs the task of enhancing the air while serving as a sculptural decoration for the home. Millennials, and also Boomers who have downsized after their children have moved out, are working with limited space in their homes. It’s increasingly important for functional pieces to also look great. The innovation of taking a traditionally unattractive product and adding design elements to enhance a room will appeal to both generations. The H3 Hybrid Humidifier keeps your home comfortable while enhancing your decor.
One comment we often hear from Millennials is that they want products to do double-duty. Unlike older generations, they prefer multi-function capability and appreciate products that perform more than one task. The Objecto humidifier performs the task of enhancing the air while serving as a sculptural decoration for the home. Millennials, and also Boomers who have downsized after their children have moved out, are working with limited space in their homes. It’s increasingly important for functional pieces to also look great. The innovation of taking a traditionally unattractive product and adding design elements to enhance a room will appeal to both generations. The H3 Hybrid Humidifier keeps your home comfortable while enhancing your decor.
8. Quirky VanishISO
In addition to offering great product, Quirky wins our vote for “most interesting booth” at the Housewares Show! Their first impression quickly communicates that they are customer-centric with products directly inspired by consumer needs and wants. Quirky’s crowdsourcing business model is right up Millennials’ alley, providing options for co-creation, curation and content development. It’s perfect for Millennials who value two-way communication and do not respond to push advertising. The new VanishISO is a humidity-activated exhaust fan for the bathroom, that turns on or off depending on how much moisture in the air is detected. ISO saves money and energy by only turning on when it’s needed. Simple and brilliant… characteristics appreciated by new Millennial homeowners. Quirky is currently a popular niche brand among Millennials, but products this functional are too good not to share. We foresee major Ping Pong Branding with Boomers in Quirky’s future.
In addition to offering great product, Quirky wins our vote for “most interesting booth” at the Housewares Show! Their first impression quickly communicates that they are customer-centric with products directly inspired by consumer needs and wants. Quirky’s crowdsourcing business model is right up Millennials’ alley, providing options for co-creation, curation and content development. It’s perfect for Millennials who value two-way communication and do not respond to push advertising. The new VanishISO is a humidity-activated exhaust fan for the bathroom, that turns on or off depending on how much moisture in the air is detected. ISO saves money and energy by only turning on when it’s needed. Simple and brilliant… characteristics appreciated by new Millennial homeowners. Quirky is currently a popular niche brand among Millennials, but products this functional are too good not to share. We foresee major Ping Pong Branding with Boomers in Quirky’s future.
9. Verilux HappyLight 10K
In our high-tech, fast-paced world, many of us suffer from inadequate exposure to sunlight, especially during the Winter Blues months. Research into Seasonal Affective Disorder suggests a very simple solution: get more sunlight! Verilux’s HappyLight provides 10,000 LUX of full-spectrum light, the same type provided by the sun, to cue the body to recalibrate and stabilize, fight fatigue and improve focus. Just turn on the light and go about your activities while receiving the rejuvenating benefits. What we love about this specific model is that users can adjust the light output. If you only have 15 minutes, choose a power dose. If you have an hour, select lower levels of light. AIMsights’ research confirms that both Millennials and Boomers are adopting the mantra of “live every day to the max” and searching for small daily steps to increase general happiness. The HappyLight Line appeals to both generations, improving mood, energy and productivity in a simple, holistic way.
In our high-tech, fast-paced world, many of us suffer from inadequate exposure to sunlight, especially during the Winter Blues months. Research into Seasonal Affective Disorder suggests a very simple solution: get more sunlight! Verilux’s HappyLight provides 10,000 LUX of full-spectrum light, the same type provided by the sun, to cue the body to recalibrate and stabilize, fight fatigue and improve focus. Just turn on the light and go about your activities while receiving the rejuvenating benefits. What we love about this specific model is that users can adjust the light output. If you only have 15 minutes, choose a power dose. If you have an hour, select lower levels of light. AIMsights’ research confirms that both Millennials and Boomers are adopting the mantra of “live every day to the max” and searching for small daily steps to increase general happiness. The HappyLight Line appeals to both generations, improving mood, energy and productivity in a simple, holistic way.
10. Zadro Cordless Rounded Wall Mirror
Zadro’s wall mirror is a perfect example of how a low-tech product maintains relevancy in a modern consumer’s life. A Boomer will love these mirrors for their 10x magnification and optical quality glass, as they adjust and zero in for accurate makeup application or facial shaving. Style-conscious Millennials will move the mirror to see the back side of a hairstyle or precisely shape a beard. The mirrors are easy to install and, are battery-powered, avoiding the need for complicated electrical work. The wall attachment maximizes available counter space. The simplicity is perfect for Millennials who are renting and can’t make major home updates. The Millennial-Boomer communication channel will spread the word about this product. We see great gift-giving potential!!
Zadro’s wall mirror is a perfect example of how a low-tech product maintains relevancy in a modern consumer’s life. A Boomer will love these mirrors for their 10x magnification and optical quality glass, as they adjust and zero in for accurate makeup application or facial shaving. Style-conscious Millennials will move the mirror to see the back side of a hairstyle or precisely shape a beard. The mirrors are easy to install and, are battery-powered, avoiding the need for complicated electrical work. The wall attachment maximizes available counter space. The simplicity is perfect for Millennials who are renting and can’t make major home updates. The Millennial-Boomer communication channel will spread the word about this product. We see great gift-giving potential!!
Honorable Mentions:
They didn’t make the Top Ten, but these products also had major ping pong potential, so we had to give them a shoutout of their own!
Joseph Joseph Nested Storage Containers
Who doesn’t appreciate great design? These airtight containers nest neatly inside one another and the lids snap together, providing a simple space-saving solution to the chaos that is the tupperware cabinet! The lids and bases are also color-coded, making it simple to match the twelve pieces together. As Millennials and Boomers share information, as well as recipes and dishes, these containers are sure to enter the conversation!
Who doesn’t appreciate great design? These airtight containers nest neatly inside one another and the lids snap together, providing a simple space-saving solution to the chaos that is the tupperware cabinet! The lids and bases are also color-coded, making it simple to match the twelve pieces together. As Millennials and Boomers share information, as well as recipes and dishes, these containers are sure to enter the conversation!
Chef’N SweetSpot Ice Cream Maker
For anyone who loves sweet treats, the SweetSpot is not to be missed! This is a low-tech alternative to larger, bulkier ice cream makers. The SweetSpot can have ice cream ready in minutes, which is great for time-crunched Millennials! It also can be used other frozen treats besides ice cream (frozen margarita, anyone?)
– Authored by Whitney Ryan
I would totally buy the grill. I love grilled food, but don’t want to buy a big one that would be overkill- nor do I want a big piece of ugly metal as an eyesore in my backyard. This could easily be moved/stored in the garage.
Everyone likes grilled food, so I think this would be a hit.
I could see the Hybrid Humidifier (let’s face it, sinus problems go across ALL generations), and the Babycook (works for kiddos and for grandkids) being hits with both side of the fence. I’d also give a nod to the Nested Storage Containers even though they were honorable mentions. Tupperware organization is a universal issue. lol
Absolutely LOVE the Objecto Humidifiers! Dry air is always a problem in the Winter and if having this pretty piece will help with that, I’m IN! Would also be very interested in the Silicone lids. Finding the right lid is always a frustrating problem and these look like they might fit a variety of sizes…sign me up!
I like the silicone lids. I have dishes with plastic lids and the lids have worn out. These silicone lids would be perfect to replace those and can be used with other bowls that do not come with lids. My second choice is the grill. Portable and no mess.
I especially liked the Charles Viancin Silicone Lids for their functionality. They can be used to store food in the refrigerator but would also serve well as a lid for travelling to a picnic. This product is great for the ping pong ages because the younger group may forget to purchase and stock foil and wrap as well as being sustainable and the boomers appreciate the sensibility and ease of storage.
I love the Quirky VanishISO because it’s different. It comes on and off by itself when it detects humidity in the bathroom. I believe this that this will be great for everyone. Every time you get out the shower and you want to see the mirror. This will help alot.
I think the Humidifier poses a potential benefit to both generations. Humidifiers are awesome tools for your home; however, it seems the younger millennial generation thinks that humidifiers are a baby boomer item.
This rather hip design might allow millennials to rethink this idea, and make a purchase for a lesser owned product by our generation. On the same token, these modern-esque looking items, would look good in almost any home!
I love the lotus grill. I like how light and versatile it is, which would make it convenient to use at home or travel with for BBQs in parks/beaches. I think it would be appropriate and enjoyable for people of all generations since it seems to be simple to use, good for singles or families. Additionally, it is not very large, so it can be conveniently stored (storage space can be an issue for many).
I really like the Quirky VanishISO. I can see this product appealing to both groups. Everyone wants to save money on their electric bill, and this product would definitely help. Many times after a shower, you leave the bathroom, but the air is still very humid. You don’t want to leave the fan on, as you are going out and don’t want to forget to turn it off. The VanishISO would take care of the problem for you. Also, handy for those times when you realize you forgot to turn on the fan before getting into the shower.
I like the Charles Viancin Silicone Lids because I absolutely HATE fighting with plastic wrap! I often use aluminum foil for covering pans/bowls, but when I bring a dish to a party, that doesn’t look very appealing. These seem like they would work as a lid on just about any bowl or storage container and would look nice too. My mom is in the Boomer generation and I know she would also love something like this. I like that they are reusable and attractive. Not every container comes equipped with a lid, and those that do sometimes get lost. I think everyone would enjoy the ease of use these provide.
Of all of these I really like 2:
1. Nespresso VertuoLine. I have been searching for an espresso machine that made professional quality espresso and was affordable. I have purchased expensive $1000+ super-automatics, mid-range manual makers, the ultra cheap ones, however, every time I purchased one of these machines I soon returned them and found myself in the local coffee house for relief. I have seen the Nespresso brand for years and I know that it makes a great cup of esperesso as I have tried it at Bloomingdales and William Sonoma. I like that this one would make espresso and coffee. The crema option sounds great and gourmet. I would love to try this and see if it is better than my local artisanal coffee house. This is the prefect toy for me to get for my birthday in a few months.
2. Lodge Silicone Trivets. They look really bright and fun. I can’t I imagine that I would miss it when setting on the table waiting for something hot to set on it. When I think of Lodge, I think of Lodge, I think cast iron pots and pans, so this is a brand that I know and trust. It looks like this would work pretty well.
Beaba Babycook Pro is good product for young and old because everyone is think about what goes into their food these days. This item would give young and old a chance to prepare health food with all the fresh items everyday.
Verilux HappyLight 10K is a great item for the home for young and old. I love being in the sun and it also helps the body to produce vitamin D. So this item would make the young and old happy and healthy at the same time.
[…] Additional details on the Ping Pong potential of these products and comments from the AIMsights Consumer Panels can be found at https://aimsights.com/top-10-ping-pong-products-from-the-2014-ihhs/. […]
I love the Objecto H3 Hybrid Humidifier because we have very dry air where we live and I am looking for a humidifier that would blend with my décor (which this one does) – I hope it comes in additional color choices as pink would not go with any of my home décor – I would like to see a version with a nice pattern as well – palms or lace – or any other interesting patterns – I think humidifiers are beneficial for all generations – allows for better sleep for sure- and helps breathing better in general
I like the idea of the Lodge product. We cook with cast iron in our house a lot so I would get a lot of use out of this. Our kitchen is pretty small, so I’m always using the table as an extra surface. Cast iron gets VERY hot, so this product would mean I don’t melt my potholders trying to protect my table!
My Mother still cooks with cast iron a lot she would definitely get use out of this product too.
I also think the HappyLight is a nifty idea. This last winter sucked! I work from home a lot so got very little natural light this winter. No wonder I never had any energy! If this next winter is anything similar I would definitely be interested in trying this product out to see it it increased my energy.
My only concern would be if prolonged exposure (like having it on while working all day) would be bad?
My parents live in the north of England where winters seem to last forever, so if the product works, I would most definitely recommend it to them to use.