Walton’s Smart: Appliances Get Smarter with AI and IoT

S M Mahbubul Alam, Managing Director, Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC.

The Daily Star (TDS): Could you provide an overview of your company's current offerings and market position in the smart home appliances sector?

S M Mahbubul Alam (SMMA): Walton is currently running its 'Digital Campaign Season-22', offering customers guaranteed cashback of up to one million taka on the purchase of Walton-brand refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, washing machines, or BLDC ceiling fans from any Walton Plaza or authorised distributor outlet across the country. In addition, the ongoing 'AC Exchange Offer' enables customers nationwide to trade in their old air conditioners for brand-new, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly Walton ACs—now available at a 25 percent discount. Free installation is also provided with every Walton AC purchase.

Recognising the growing demand for smart home appliances in Bangladesh, Walton has strategically focused on producing a wide range of smart products—such as refrigerators, televisions, and air conditioners—integrated with globally advanced technologies like AI (Artificial Intelligence), IoT (Internet of Things), and its proprietary 'AI Doctor'.

TDS: How do you evaluate the current performance and competitiveness of local brands in this industry in Bangladesh?

SMMA: Local electronics brands in Bangladesh have made impressive strides in recent years. Their ability to deliver high-quality products with cutting-edge features at affordable prices has strongly resonated with consumers. Combined with responsive after-sales service and extensive nationwide distribution networks, this has allowed local brands to secure a dominant position in the market. Walton, as a pioneer in the sector, along with other local players, now commands around 90 percent of the domestic electronics market.

Walton was the first in Bangladesh to introduce the 8-in-1 convertible smart refrigerator and the 3-in-1 convertible smart air conditioner. It also manufactures South Asia's most energy-efficient residential air conditioners, rated 6-Star by BSTI, and is the world's first company to launch a voice-command AC.

Walton also introduced 'AI Doctor', an AI-based diagnostic feature in IoT-enabled fridges and ACs, developed by its in-house R&D team. This feature identifies technical issues and alerts customer service—often before users detect a problem. The AIoT system further optimises performance by learning user behaviour and adjusting settings to ensure energy-efficient operation.

Additional innovations include washing machines with weather forecasting, thermo heaters, and fabric care features. Walton's leadership has been recognised with the 'Superbrand' title and consecutive 'Best Brand Awards', including 11 years of dominance in the refrigerator category.

TDS: What are the key challenges hindering the industry's growth and wider adoption?

SMMA: The home appliance market is expanding rapidly, especially in developing countries, driven by rising incomes, urbanisation, and technological innovations like AI and IoT. These advancements are increasing demand for smarter, energy-efficient products. However, global economic uncertainty and inflation have made consumers more cautious about large purchases, leading to greater price sensitivity. Brand loyalty is also under pressure as buyers rely more on online reviews and comparisons. Intense competition in the sector continues to squeeze margins. At Walton, we closely monitor market trends, adapt our strategies accordingly, and are actively exploring export opportunities to support sustainable national economic growth.

TDS: Could you share insights into your company's ongoing initiatives and future plans in the smart home appliances sector?

SMMA: Walton upholds customer trust through high-quality products and prompt after-sales service. We invest in advanced technology, R&D, and innovation to deliver AI- and IoT-enabled smart appliances. Expanding further, we've launched a lithium-ion battery cell manufacturing project, with commercial production set to begin by mid-2026.

TDS: What policy reforms or government support do you believe are essential for the industry's further development?

SMMA:

Refining Existing Regulations

Instead of a complete overhaul, it's essential to identify and eliminate bottlenecks and redundancies within the current regulatory framework. Priorities should include digitalising procedures, enhancing coordination among government agencies, and resolving ambiguities in existing rules. Any new regulations should align with the core principles of the current system.

Enhancing Trade Facilitation

Existing trade policies should be improved to further simplify international trade, reduce tariffs on essential imports where feasible, and strengthen export competitiveness. Strategic use of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) should be explored to unlock new global markets in line with the country's overall trade strategy.

Strengthening Business Environment Initiatives

Evaluate current government programmes aimed at improving the business climate. Identify ways to enhance their scope, accessibility, and effectiveness across industries. Any new reforms should integrate seamlessly with existing institutions that support business facilitation.

In summary, the electronics and electrical industry in Bangladesh has flourished largely due to supportive policies. Continued policy backing is vital, particularly in ensuring a level playing field in public procurement for domestic manufacturers.