At the 2025 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), North America’s largest trade event for kitchen and bathroom products, one name stood out from afar: SKS. Curious onlookers unfamiliar with the brand gathered at the booth, where an LG Electronics representative greeted them: “Welcome to our ultra-premium built-in kitchen appliance brand.”
LG Electronics has rebranded its high-end kitchen appliance line from “Signature Kitchen Suite” to “SKS” as part of its strategy to strengthen its presence in the global built-in appliance market. While staying true to its core philosophy of “True to Food”—which emphasizes culinary authenticity—the company opted for a name that resonates more intuitively with consumers.
At this year’s exhibition, LG introduced SKS’s refreshed identity at a dedicated booth showcasing its latest kitchen innovations. Among the highlights was an integrated hood that retracts into the countertop when not in use. A visitor turned a dial, and the beige countertop split open, revealing the hood rising seamlessly from within. Traditionally mounted above gas stoves and induction cooktops, this design aligns with the growing trend of blending kitchen aesthetics with functionality by minimizing visible components. “It feels more like a luxury furniture piece than a kitchen counter,” an attendee noted. LG plans to roll out additional premium kitchen appliances featuring advanced technologies later this year.
AI-driven and high-efficiency appliances dominated KBIS 2025. Samsung Electronics, under the theme “AI for All,” showcased its Bespoke home appliances integrated with artificial intelligence. Featured products included the Bespoke AI Family Hub refrigerator, the Bespoke AI Combo washer-dryer, and the Bespoke Slide-in Range, all connected through Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem. These appliances sync with Samsung’s security platform Knox and voice assistant Bixby, enabling remote control via a smartphone app. Near the entrance, Samsung’s interactive photo booth attracted visitors eager to pose against a backdrop designed to resemble a fully stocked refrigerator.
The SKS booth also featured cutting-edge innovations, including an “All-Free” induction cooktop that heats regardless of cookware placement and the 36-inch Cook Zone Free Induction Prorange, which combines an induction cooktop with a professional-grade oven. Built-in cameras recognize ingredients and suggest optimal cooking modes through AI-powered recipe recommendations. Meanwhile, LG’s heat pump dryer employs an AI motor beneath the door to analyze fabric type and weight, reducing shrinkage.
Other major appliance manufacturers, including GE Appliances and Whirlpool, introduced advanced smart home solutions. GE unveiled a dishwasher with internal sensors that detect water overflow and alert users via a smart app. The company was recognized at the 2025 IoT Breakthrough Awards as “Smart Appliance Company of the Year.” Whirlpool introduced an AI-powered dryer that automatically adjusts drying time and allows remote control through a smartphone application.
Beyond kitchen and bathroom appliances, global manufacturers are expanding into residential construction, home building, and interior design. For the first time, LG Electronics participated in the International Builders’ Show (IBS), hosted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Previously, industry leaders such as GE and Whirlpool had been the primary exhibitors spanning both KBIS and IBS, but LG has now joined their ranks.
Market Research Future projects that North America’s B2B home appliance market will grow to $340.5 billion by 2032. LG’s IBS exhibit introduced its “Total Space Solution” concept, which tailors home appliances and HVAC systems to various housing types, from single-family homes to apartments and studio units. “With a three-pronged strategy focused on the B2B market, high-efficiency products, and AI-powered smart homes, we aim to solidify our position as the No.1 premium appliance brand in the U.S.,” said Lyu Jae-cheol, president of LG Electronics’ Home Appliance & Air Solution division.
