Simon Christensen, the General Manager of Kimberly-Clark ProfessionalTM ANZ, enlightened us on his career highlights, revealed insights into the industry research that went into the development of the companies new ICONTM collection of dispensers, and discussed how customers in the USA have responded to these game-changing innovations.
What sets the ICON Collection apart from other touchless dispensing systems?
We all know touchless dispensers have been in the market for many years but to compare ICONTM to previous generations of touchless dispensers is like comparing the latest Mercedes-Benz to a Ford Model T. They are both cars, but they are worlds apart
For example, the ICONTM Electronic Hard Roll Towel Dispenser (eHRT), which utilises touchless technology and seamless design to reduce the number of touchpoints and lessen the potential risk of cross contamination occurring in a a washroom, while the stylish modern design enhances the look of any space.
The dispensers have also been thoughtfully engineered and feature direct-drive technology and dual-sensor technology to ensure 99.99% jam-free dispensing, with virtually noiseless operation for a truly delightful customer experience.
What went into the design behind ICONTM?
The Kimberly-Clark ProfessionalTM ICONTM collection was designed by hygiene and innovation experts to be our most significant upgrade in hygiene technology in over a decade. Inspiration for the collection was sought from various cutting-edge industries, including in spaces like the automotive sector.
By speaking with leading architects, we were able to identify emerging design trends that put the business and the consumer first. We wanted ICON to be able to fit into any washroom. But the entire design and innovation process was guided by our ‘Human Centric Design Principles’. We believe these principles – things like intuitiveness, consistency and design – have a large impact on how users experience the collection. And we listened to our customers by seeking feedback from each prototype that was developed. This was an integral part of evolving each stage of the development.
Sustainability continues to be a hot topic for businesses. Does the collection address sustainability?
Airflex Technology is used in the ICONTM Electronic Hard Roll Towel Dispensers (eHRT). With specially spread fibres, Airflex creates absorbency pockets that quickly draw water in, allowing people to use fewer towels and reduce waste.
And 100% of the fibres used are sourced from FSC certified forests.
What is your favourite part of the system and why?
There are many advantages to the ICONTM collection, but I really like how it’s engineered to support cleaning staff and improve maintenance efficiency. Especially in Australia with the ongoing labour shortages (good cleaners are hard to find and keep!), finding anything that makes their job easier is an effective way to ease some pressure.
With ICONTM, every detail has been refined to create an elevated servicing experience from the ergonomics to the sophisticated dampened hinge for controlled opening. The dispensers feature an easy-to-read and intuitive control panel which means less training is required to operate the dispensers. Easily visible lighting and servicing cues on the control panel indicate when rolls need to be replaced, when the odd paper jam occurs, and when battery levels are low – taking the guesswork out of servicing.
We’re also proud of the virtually jam-free performance, and a single set of batteries can last up to 5 years and deliver up to 150,000 dispenses. Plus, increased accessibility and a smooth, controlled opening and closing experience make servicing an easy task.
The ICON collection launched first in the USA. How have US-based customers responded to the ICON collection?
Our skincare dispensers have really resonated with customers in the USA. Electronic Hard Roll Towel Dispensers (eHRT) are still moving the most volume, but what’s surprising is how much skincare and bath products we’ve been moving with eHRT. Our eCommerce channel has been a surprisingly strong performer, versus our traditional distributor channels. About 1 in 4 of our early shipments were through Amazon at our full list price and without the customisation aspect we offer.
Overall, we are very satisfied with how our customers in the USA have responded to the collection. Things are looking extremely positive.
What has been a career highlight for you?
I suppose the chance to lead the business I grew up in is the ultimate career highlight. A specific highlight was the way the team worked together during those frightening first months of the pandemic when our products were in peak demand. The care and commitment the whole team showed to each other, and our customers is admirable. It was inspiring and an enormously proud moment the way we put the needs of our community above any personal goal.
