The new generation of Gorenje WaveActive washing machines and dryers, which won the golden award, combines innovations and cutting-edge technologies such as SteamTech that uses steam to effectively rehydrate the fabric and break down the dirt, and IonTech that uses ionized air to improve stain removal by 30 percent. Uniquely designed drum with wave-shaped ribs ensures soft treatment of garments. In the tumble dryers, IonTech technology removes any odours to leave the garments with a fresh smell, while SteamTech employs steam to straighten the fibres and all but do away with the need for ironing. All Gorenje WaveActive generation appliances meet the highest environmental standards and they are highly energy-efficient.

The new generation of Asko premium dishwashers, to which the committee presented the silver award, was developed in tune with the brand's values: functionality, minimalist (Scandinavian) design, high quality, and environmental responsibility. We developed two new programs and four different dishwashing modes for even more flexibility in accommodating the users' needs. The capacity to wash 17 place settings worth of dishes at once is the most that can currently be found in the market. The appliances are highly energy-efficient (rated in energy class A+++), they use very little water (9.5 litres), and they are very quiet (39 dB). Dishwasher door is made of a single piece of steel, contributing to the premium appearance. The appliances are connectible with smart devices.

Innovative approaches in development made it possible to make the tool for mass production of semi-products out of high-strength sheet metal with integrated thread rolling. Compared to the previous tools, this one allows higher productivity and automated semi-product production. The new tool uses 38% less sheet metal per semi-product unit, and the energy consumption is lower as well. Due to the use of high-strength sheet metal, the core of the challenge was manufacturing the so-called necks by thread rolling in the very tool. Furthermore, the semi-products made with the tool are defined as safety elements in cars, which further increases the complexity of the project. The innovation won the bronze award.

With our golden innovation, we have also qualified for the national selection for best Slovenian innovations. 

Over the two decades, awards for best innovations in the SAŠA region have been presented to a total of 2,198 innovators for 376 innovations.