How can the efficiency of proven technology be further improved – and how can the conditions for sustainable and hygienically secure processes be created at the same time? Answers are provided by Miele in the form of connectivity-enabled commercial machines and matching process chemicals, all live at the EXPOdetergo in Milan on an exhibition stand covering 210 m². (October 21-24, 2022, Hall 1P, Booth U01 V 10).

Miele presents a broad portfolio of products for commercial laundries, self-service launderettes and dry-cleaners. New products include connectivity-enabled washing machines and dryers with load capacities of 12 kg. These products belong to the generation of products called 'The New Benchmark Machines'. They cover all demands for convenience and programme diversity with two model series. Flagship models excel with more than 90 wash programmes including cycles for workwear and wet cleaning (WetCare) programmes for garments labelled 'non-washable' and typically sent to the dry-cleaner's.

The shortest cycle on washing machines is completed in only 42 minutes and has a specific water consumption of 5.9 l per kg of laundry. Residual moisture after spinning is as low as 44%, saving valuable energy in the subsequent drying stage. The new heat-pump dryers in this model series use an environmentally friendly coolant, and cycle times have been cut by up to a quarter compared with previous models.
In addition to this, Miele will be presenting an extended range of dryers, including new models, for example for laundries where space is at a premium.

Miele MOVE portal simplifies everyday work

In many countries, washing machines and dryers from the 'Benchmark' generation can already be connected to the new Miele MOVE portal – further countries will follow. This makes it easy to check from the convenience of a smartphone, tablet or PC when machines are finished and can be unloaded. The direct link to the Miele Professional webshop is helpful in terms of supply management, simplifying the re-ordering of consumables such as detergents. Miele MOVE also allows the monitoring of the key process data which is essential in producing hygienically clean laundry (including temperatures and times).

Miele's holistic system – referred to as 360PRO – also includes process chemicals designed for sustainable use in commercial washing machines, and a steam ironing system occupying the smallest of footprints.

As protection against viruses and bacteria is coming to play an increasing role, Miele has commissioned laboratory tests to be conducted on its laundry and dishwashing technology by the institute for applied cleaning and hygiene at the University of Albstadt-Sigmaringen. Result: Washing machines from the current 'Benchmark' generation, Little Giants and the SmartBiz series (from a load capacity of 7 kg) were awarded the Golden Virus Seal which ensures transparency in the field of hygiene throughout Europe. Miele commercial dishwashers produced similarly convincing results. First products from the MasterLine series, available from January 2023 onwards, will also be on display at the Miele exhibition stand in Milan. This product, too, can connect to Miele MOVE.

Successful throughout Europe: appWash and Bloomest

In addition to new products, visitors to the trade show can also catch up with two new digital business models which are expanding throughout Europe. Firstly, there's appWash: a concept launched by Miele Operations & Payment Solutions GmbH, founded in 2019, to serve laundry operators in student hostels and multi-family accommodation. Members of housing associations have access to an app with which washing machines and dryers connected to the system can be booked or programmes paid for online.

Secondly, the internationally successful Bloomest chain of launderettes will present itself. Launched initially as Lavapiù, more than 800 launderettes were opened in Italy and a further 65 in the rest of Europe. Today, Miele has a majority stake in Bloomest and offers operators turnkey projects, replete with the latest connectivity-enabled Miele laundry technology.

Company profile: Miele is the world's leading manufacturer of premium domestic appliances including cooking, baking and steam-cooking appliances, refrigeration products, coffee makers, dishwashers and laundry and floor care products. Their product portfolio also includes dishwashers, air purifiers, washing machines and tumble dryers for commercial use as well as washer-disinfectors and sterilisers for use in medical and laboratory applications. Founded in 1899, the company has eight production plants in Germany, one each in Austria, the Czech Republic, China, Romania and Poland as well as two production plants belonging to its Italian medical technology subsidiary Steelco. Sales in the 2021 business year amounted to around € 4.84 bn. Miele is represented with its own sales subsidiaries and via importers in almost 100 countries/regions. Throughout the world, the family-run enterprise, now in its fourth generation, employs a workforce of around 22,300, of which approx. 11,200 employees work in Germany. The company has its headquarters in Gütersloh in Westphalia.