Walton leads Bangladesh's rise in AI-powered fridge innovation

Senior Executive Director of Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC Shahjalal Hossain Limon. Sketch: TBS

Walton's new smart refrigerators come packed with cutting-edge AIoT technology and energy-saving inverter systems, all wrapped in sleek, user-friendly designs.

These high-tech fridges are now more affordable than ever, bringing advanced features to homes across Bangladesh. Backed by South Asia's largest R&D team and a robust nationwide service network, Walton continues to dominate the local market. With exports to over 50 countries, their commitment to innovation, climate-smart products, and top-notch customer care keeps Walton at the forefront, both at home and globally.

In an interview with The Business Standard, Md Shahjalal Hossain Limon, senior executive director of Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC, said the company focuses on making fridges that suit Bangladesh's climate, stay affordable, and offer smart features. With South Asia's largest research centre, Walton is now exporting to over 50 countries and investing in automation and eco-friendly technology to stay ahead both at home and abroad.

What new products have you introduced for Eid-ul-Adha?

We've launched seven new refrigerator models ahead of Eid, featuring cutting-edge technologies like IoT and AI. Highlights include a smart fridge with an 8-in-1 convertible mode, Dolby sound, and a 21.5-inch Android display, as well as a three-door model with a built-in AI Doctor feature. Other models include inverter-based reversible door options, water dispenser variants, semi-no-frost models with digital controls, and stylish new freezers. These innovations reflect Walton's leadership in bringing world-class smart refrigeration technology to Bangladeshi homes.

Tell us about the key technologies, features, and benefits of Walton's new fridge models.

Walton's new Eid lineup includes smart refrigerators packed with advanced features at competitive prices. The standout is a 620-litre 'Multimedia Hub' model with a 21.5-inch Android display, stereo sound, and internet access—perfect for streaming, browsing, and even online grocery shopping. It comes with metal and duo cooling, MSO Plus inverter tech that adjusts cooling based on the room temperature, and customisable compartments to reduce electricity use while keeping food fresh and germ-free.

Another highlight is the 560-litre three-door smart fridge, equipped with dual temperature control, turbo cooling modes, and the unique 'AI Doctor' system that detects issues, attempts automatic fixes, and alerts the nearest service centre if needed. With AIoT, users can control the fridge remotely via smartphone.

Additional models include reversible-door fridges (308L and 343L), a 268L water dispenser model, a 348L semi-no-frost model, and a sleek 210L freezer—all featuring energy-saving inverter tech. These fridges use UV-C light and Intelligent Germ Terminator tech to eliminate bacteria and odours, while smart touch controls allow access without opening the door.

Despite high-end features, Walton's prices remain accessible. For example, while similar multimedia fridges from other brands cost over Tk300,000, Walton offers theirs at around Tk200,000.

How many Walton fridge models are available now, and what are the price range and purchase offers?

Walton is synonymous with refrigeration in Bangladesh. Catering to all social classes, professions, and income groups, we offer hundreds of fridge and freezer designs and models. Prices start from Tk15,000 and go up to Tk200,000. We offer easy instalment facilities – including six-month zero-interest options and up to 36-month plans.

Are there any special benefits for purchasing Walton fridges during Eid?   

Walton traditionally offers special deals during major festivals, and this Eid is no exception. Since 20 February 2025, our nationwide 'Digital Campaign Season 22' has been running. Under this, buyers of Walton refrigerators have the opportunity to become millionaires. Every purchaser is also guaranteed a gift. Numerous buyers across the country have already become millionaires by purchasing Walton fridges, and many more will have the chance to win before Eid-ul-Adha.

What after-sales services do Walton fridges offer?   

We provide international-standard after-sales support: a 1-year replacement guarantee, 12-year compressor guarantee, and up to 5 years of free service. With over 86 service centres under the country's first ISO-certified and largest service network, Walton ensures rapid, top-tier service across Bangladesh.

What's Walton's secret to staying the country's top fridge brand?

We offer fridges for every budget and lifestyle, built with cutting-edge tech by South Asia's one of the largest R&D and innovation team. They're energy-efficient, saving up to 75% on electricity, meet global standards, and come at affordable prices. Plus, our wide ISO-certified service network ensures reliable after-sales support. This combination has earned us consumer trust and Superbrand recognition.

What areas are you prioritising to maintain Walton's Superbrand status in the future?

We're focusing heavily on automation, product research, and innovation within the refrigeration sector to maintain our top market position. Significant investment is going into implementing Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies and aligning with global advancements. Our Research and Innovation Centre continues to study emerging demands in a changing socio-economic landscape, ensuring our product innovation meets the expectations of the next generation.

How far ahead is Walton in producing energy-efficient and eco-friendly refrigerators compared to competitors?  

Producing environmentally friendly, energy-saving fridges is our top priority. Walton fridges utilise MSO Plus inverter technology based on AIoT to optimise cooling with minimal energy use according to external temperature. We were the first in Bangladesh to produce fridges certified with BSTI's 5-star energy rating. Walton has also led internationally in phasing out harmful CFC and HCFC gases through joint initiatives with the Department of Environment and UNDP. As a result, carbon emissions have significantly reduced. Our current models use globally recognised eco-friendly gases like R600a and R290, contributing to both environmental conservation and efficient electricity usage.

How does Walton stand out in Bangladesh's fridge market?

Walton offers the widest range of designs, sizes, and smart features, backed by South Asia's one of the largest research team. Our fridges are built to handle diverse climates across Bangladesh, making them extra durable. Every model undergoes over 70 quality tests before release. With sizes from 50 to 660 litres and a strong ISO-certified service network nationwide, Walton's reliability has earned us the 'Best Brand Award' 11 years in a row.

How is Walton advancing fridge technology through research and innovation?

Walton invests heavily in research, innovation, and automation at one of the largest Research and Innovation Centre in South Asiain, located in Gazipur, with experts from Bangladesh and abroad. Thanks to this team, Walton leads in AIoT fridge technology, making Bangladesh the first in South Asia to produce French-door fridges and the world's first to make 8-in-1 convertible side-by-side refrigerators—putting Bangladesh on the global map for smart fridge production.

How affordable are Walton fridges for middle- and lower-income families?

What used to be a luxury is now within reach for many, thanks to Walton's commercial production since 2008. Even with rising costs from currency issues and imports, Walton keeps prices controlled to ensure fridges stay affordable, always putting customer satisfaction first.

Which countries are Walton fridges exported to, and what is your export strategy moving forward?

Walton exports refrigerators and parts to over 50 countries, including India, Nepal, Nigeria, and Austria. We are aiming to export 500,000 units by 2026. To grow, we're expanding in Europe, America, and Australia with a skilled Global Business Team and a research centre in South Korea studying global markets. We've also acquired three historic European electronics brands—ACC, Zanussi Elettromeccanica, and Verdichter—to boost our global presence. Participating in major expos like CES and the Canton Fair helps strengthen Walton's "Made in Bangladesh" brand worldwide.