The head of Xiaomi Group's major appliance division has outlined a strategy to address customer perceptions of poor quality by 2026, stating that suppliers unable to keep pace with the company's development will be phased out. The remarks were made by Shan Lianyu, General Manager of the division, during a recent internal meeting focused on quality.
Shan emphasized that innovation determines how high Xiaomi's major appliance business can soar, while quality determines how far it can go. He stated that quality management must be treated as a rigid principle and serve as the baseline for decision-making among product line leaders. Any quality defects, he warned, would directly harm Xiaomi Group's reputation, particularly given that major appliances have life cycles of 5 to 10 years. Noting that perceived quality influences brand loyalty, Shan urged his team to approach every production stage with craftsman-like precision and ensure quality red lines are never crossed.
He reviewed key achievements over the past two years, highlighting that the division has achieved full-stack in-house R&D capabilities across all product categories and begun penetrating core component manufacturing. A preliminary "quality iron triangle" collaborative framework has been established, supported by over 100 laboratories. The quality team has expanded to more than 200 members, enabling parallel management with R&D departments. Additionally, systematic restructuring of the supply chain has created a foundation to support business growth.
Looking ahead to 2026, Shan announced that Xiaomi will continue to bring in high-quality suppliers to foster a healthy competitive environment while decisively eliminating those that fail to match the company's pace. He outlined three major tasks: strengthening evaluation capabilities for new technologies, with a focus on improving systems for introducing and managing new technologies, processes, and materials; driving quality management upgrades through factory improvements and smart technologies; and actively addressing and reversing customer perceptions of poor product quality to rebuild brand trust.
Xiaomi's major appliance business currently includes refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and other products. While the company has previously competed on price and smart features—posing a challenge to traditional home appliance makers—it continues to work on enhancing quality and service capabilities. Recent efforts include extending air conditioner warranties to 10 years and launching its first dedicated major appliance factory.
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