Whirlpool and Fisher & Paykel Appliances today announced the formation of a global strategic alliance involving the two major home appliance manufacturers.

Fisher & Paykel Appliances is a New Zealand-based international company that manufactures and markets major appliances for laundry, cooking, refrigeration and dishwashing. The company's primary markets are in New Zealand and Australia. The company also exports home appliances around the world, with a focus on Europe and the United States. Additional information about the company can be found on the Internet at www.fisherpaykel.com.

"This global alliance will provide significant growth opportunities for both Whirlpool and Fisher & Paykel," said Jeff Fettig, Whirlpool's president and chief operating officer. "The relationship gives each of us access to a broader set of innovative technologies and products that we can bring to customers in markets worldwide."

"Whirlpool Corporation provides us greater access to important global markets through its extensive global distribution system," added John Bongard, managing director of Fisher & Paykel Appliances. "Whirlpool also offers us the benefits of scale and the strength of its global technology development organisation. By combining our talents we can develop commercial and product ideas that will benefit both companies and add value for all our stakeholders."