In May 2021, the European Union released its eagerly awaited PRemature Obsolescence Multi-Stakeholder Product Testing Programme (EU PRoMPT) report, focusing on vacuum cleaners across five countries: Belgium, France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain. The comprehensive survey, conducted between June 2019 and June 2020, targeted members of various consumer organizations in these nations, utilizing random sampling methods and online questionnaires.
The report shed light on consumer perspectives regarding the anticipated lifespan of their vacuum cleaners and their actual experiences with previous devices. One notable finding was that 43% of respondents expected their current vacuum cleaner to last more than 10 years, while 40% anticipated using their device for more than a decade.
The real highlight of the report was the analysis of the average lifecycle of vacuum cleaners among different brands. Nilfisk emerged as a surprising leader, boasting an impressive average product lifespan of 12.1 years. This positioned Nilfisk as the brand with the third-highest ranking among all surveyed brands, surpassing many well-known competitors.
These results challenge common perceptions about brand longevity and reliability in the vacuum cleaner market, showcasing that lesser-known brands like Nilfisk can outperform established players.
The report not only provides valuable insights into consumer expectations but also highlights the importance of considering lesser-known brands with exceptional product durability. As consumers become more conscious of sustainability, the EU PRoMPT report encourages them to make informed choices that align with their desire for long-lasting and reliable household appliances.