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SSE and Dixons Carphone have announced they will collaborate to create a ‘one stop’ smart home management service for UK & Ireland customers, with trials starting next year.
As the home becomes increasingly connected, energy provider SSE and retailer Dixons Carphone have joined forces to develop a unique solution that leverages their existing expertise. This includes SSE’s highly skilled engineers, Dixons Carphone’s leading after-care service from Knowhow, and honeyBee, the market-leading digital platform from Connected World Services.
Will Morris, SSE’s retail managing director, said: “Together, we are developing a solution that isn’t just focused on launching the latest technology, but on meeting customers’ desire for a simple, flexible way to control, manage and maintain their homes. To do this, we are taking a customer first approach, leveraging SSE’s expertise and proven track record in providing essential services in the home. “
SSE and Dixons Carphone will be able to bring their smart home repair and support services to their combined customer base of 10 million people who will be able get their connected device related queries for repairs taken care of by 4,000 support staff.
Andrew Harrison, Deputy CEO at Dixons Carphone, said: “We live in an increasingly connected world, where keeping our devices working at home, at work and on the move, with busy family and professional lives can be a minefield.
“CurrysPCWorld and Knowhow are out delivering, installing and fixing these products 365 days a year and our market leading honeyBee platform provides an easy way to monitor and control these devices, so we are incredibly excited to partner with SSE and extend our relationship with customers further into the home.”
Adam Simon, Global MD for retail at Context praised the new partnership, and said: “The partnership between Dixons Carphone and SSE demonstrates a significant shift in the consumer electronics market. As more devices are connected to the internet and awareness of smart home technology improves with the launch of Amazon Echo in the UK, new business models and partnerships are required to offer connectivity, services and security. Who should consumers call to get it all installed?
“Who will maintain it and fix it when it crashes? In a mature market with declining prices for computers and tablets, the profitable revenue will come from services. The retailers who become the ‘trusted digital plumber’ for the home and the small business will not only sell more at higher margins, but develop the annual subscription revenue to retain customers and enhance future potential.”
