Slovenian-based home appliance manufacturer Gorenje has been acquired by Chinese consumer electronic brand Hisense.

The deal, initally announced in May, has been finalised and will see Hisense UK assume control of Gorenje UK’s  operations and logistics, as well as launching Hisense home appliances on to the market.

Gorenje will continue to be available in the UK, with the business still led by Iztok Krulc, with the launch of its ConnectLife platform for connected appliances expected to be launching in 2019.

Sponsored Video

Quarter sawn Tulipwood

In addition, as a result of Gorenje joining the group, Hisense will be launching a collection of cooking appliances.

Ovens, hobs, hoods and dishwashers will be released in 2019, alongside the existing range of refrigerators and washing machines.

Speaking about the acquisition, managing director of Hisense UK Howard Grindrod commented: “This is a really exciting deal for both brands. It represents a fantastic opportunity for us to work together to offer an incredible range of high quality and innovative products into the household appliance market.

“Gorenje has a long-standing reputation for quality and style, and we will continue this tradition and combine it with our extensive R&D facilities to innovate and continually improve.”

He continued: “We expect the new Hisense cooking range to be introduced to the market in early 2019 while the Gorenje brand will continue in the UK.

“We look forward to working alongside our existing retail partners to showcase these brilliant ranges, as well as forging new partnerships as we continue to grow as a household appliance brand.

Established in 1969, Hisense manufactures home appliances, flat screen TVs, air conditioners, mobile devices and entertainment electronics.

The company has more than 17 production and 14 R&D centres around the world, including a  European research and development centre in Dusseldorf, and employs 75,000 people globally.

Hisense products are available in 130 countries