Local electronics manufacturer Polytron is currently brainstorming strategies to maintain its business performance in the home appliances segment throughout the second semester of 2026. Global and domestic economic pressures are the main challenges the company must face to maintain operational sustainability.
Polytron Commercial Director, Tekno Wibowo, revealed that the industry outlook remains shrouded in uncertainty. The weakening of the rupiah exchange rate against the US dollar and fluctuations in global crude oil prices have triggered a surge in raw material costs, directly impacting the company's production cost structure.
Hot weather conditions and the El Niño phenomenon should theoretically be a momentum for air conditioner (AC) products to record a surge in demand. However, Tekno admitted that public purchasing power remains an obstacle. The gradual increase in selling prices by up to 15 percent since the beginning of the year has made consumers more cautious in spending.
As a strategic move, Polytron management chose to streamline its product line and discontinue the production of units that are less popular in the market. This efficiency measure was taken to optimize operational costs so that the company can remain competitive amidst challenging market conditions.
Although this year's target is quite conservative, Polytron remains optimistic about maintaining home appliances sales values to at least match last year's achievements. The company's current focus is on efficiency and adapting to changing market dynamics to continue serving the needs of domestic consumers.
