Kitchenware and appliances dealers in the country will have to up their game following the launch of Aardee, a German company, in Kigali over the weekend.

The firm showcased its range of 150 products during the launch at The Royal Gardens Restaurant in Kimihurura, Gasabo District. They included ceramic electric kettles, multipurpose tea makers, gas cookers that have flame failure devices to prevent explosion in case a tap is left open, rechargeable fans and energy conserving fridges.

All the products come with a two year warranty and are at competitive rates.

Speaking at the event, Rohit Dev, the Aardee chief executive officer, said their products focus on health safety and innovation. "Most of the products have metal and ceramic components…we avoid plastic. We are targeting people who love innovative products,” said Div.

Herta Niyibizi from Mercatic Supermarket said: "I can say they are off to a good start. Of personal interest was the fridge.

The new products will do well on the market and the two-year guarantee helps. They have products that come with new innovations, but are not much different from the older versions such as phones.”

Robert Opok, the procurement and logistics manager at Sawa Citi Supermarket, was impressed with the products, saying the entry of Aardee will benefit buyers.

"There are other similar products on the market though some are duplicates. So it will come down to which dealers will give the best offers.”

Headquartered in Dubai, in United Arab Emirates, Aardee has outlets across the world, with operations in seven African countries.

The firm seeks to be a leader in the kitchenware industry by 2020.