Massage chair Stiftung Warentest - Is that why there are no tests?

It is surprising that an institution like Stiftung Warentest, known for its detailed and comprehensive product reviews, does not carry out tests for massage chair carries out. This gap in their test reports raises questions and requires an explanation. 

Due to the high number of inquiries from interested parties, we have created this article, which lists possible reasons why Stiftung Warentest has not yet carried out a massage chair test. 

You can also Find a massage chair test here, which has summarized internal feedback from customers as well as aggregated feedback from over 10 platforms, including Otto, Amazon, Facebook, Google Reviews and TrustedShops, among others, to determine the “best” massage chair. 

Short version of the article: 

Stiftung Warentest has probably not carried out any tests for massage chairs, mainly due to the high level of effort and complex nature of these products. The foundation's financing structure, which emphasizes its independence, also influences the selection of products tested. Market analysis also plays a role, as massage chairs appeal to a specific group of consumers and offer a variety of models. The strict adherence to independence and neutrality as well as the control by the board of directors also contribute to the fact that massage chairs have not yet been included in the test program.

Why the high cost of testing can lead to a lack of Stiftung Warentest reviews for massage chairs

The enormously complex process required to carry out product tests could be a main reason why Stiftung Warentest has not yet carried out tests for massage chairs. Massage chairs are complex products with a variety of functions, technologies and model variants, which makes test planning and execution even more difficult. From the initial idea to the final publication of the test results, every step requires significant resources in the form of time, specialist knowledge and financial resources.

In particular, the need to purchase a representative selection of massage chairs anonymously represents a challenge. The large number of models and their different technical specifications require extensive market analysis and careful selection to ensure that the test results are meaningful. In addition, the tests are carried out in independent laboratories that require special expertise in the area of ​​massage technologies and ergonomic design.

These factors, combined with Stiftung Warentest's claim to the highest quality and objectivity of its tests, could lead to the effort involved in testing massage chairs being considered too high, especially in comparison to other product categories. Therefore, it remains a challenge for consumers to find independent and detailed reviews of these specialized products.

Financing as a key factor for the selection of Stiftung Warentest tests

A key factor that could explain why Stiftung Warentest has not yet published any tests for massage chairs is their financing structure. The foundation is financed primarily through the sale of its publications, income from the foundation capital and income from logo licenses. With the continuous reduction in state funding until 2023 and their complete elimination from 2024, the foundation is increasingly relying on self-financing, which further strengthens its independence. However, this development also has a direct impact on the distribution of resources and decision-making regarding test objects.

The limited financial resources require a selective selection of products that are tested. Massage chairs, as high-priced and technologically complex products, require extensive and costly testing procedures. This presents the foundation with the challenge of finding a balance between relevance for the consumer, financial possibilities and the potential benefit of the test results. Given these factors, the decision may have been made not to carry out massage chair tests in favor of other products where the ratio of effort, cost and benefit to consumers appears to be more favorable.

These considerations illustrate how financial conditions and the need for efficient use of resources can influence Stiftung Warentest's test selection, especially for complex and cost-intensive products such as massage chairs.

The role of market analysis in Stiftung Warentest's test selection

A crucial factor that could explain why Stiftung Warentest has not yet carried out tests for massage chairs lies in their product selection method, which is based heavily on market analysis. When deciding which products to test, the market distribution, price and features of the products play a central role. This approach ensures that Stiftung Warentest's tests are relevant and of practical use to a broad range of consumers.

Massage chairs are a product category that, while gaining popularity, still appeals to a relatively specific group of consumers. The large number of models available on the market and their different price ranges and features make it difficult to make a representative and economically sensible selection for testing. Since Stiftung Warentest works with the aim of providing as many consumers as possible with useful information, this may have resulted in massage chairs not being included in the test program so far. This strategic decision reflects the need to use resources efficiently and conduct tests that provide the greatest value to the general public.

The importance of independence and neutrality at Stiftung Warentest

Another key aspect that could influence Stiftung Warentest's decision not to publish tests for massage chairs is their unwavering commitment to independence and neutrality.

As a foundation under civil law, it aims to provide objective and impartial test results. This is ensured by purchasing products anonymously and using services covertly.

All tests are carried out using strict scientific methods in independent institutes, with assessments based exclusively on objective test results.

The challenge with massage chairs is that these products have a high variance in functions, quality and price.

This could limit Stiftung Warentest's ability to carry out a completely neutral and comprehensive test. Additionally, the ad-free nature of their publications represents an additional financial burden that must be taken into account when choosing which products to test. The high requirements for independence and neutrality could therefore be a decisive reason why Stiftung Warentest has so far decided against carrying out tests in this complex product category.

Influence of the Board of Directors on the test selection of Stiftung Warentest

Another important aspect that may have influenced why Stiftung Warentest has not yet published tests for massage chairs is the role of its board of directors. This council, composed of experts appointed by the Ministry of Consumer Protection, monitors and directs the activities of the Foundation. The members of the Board of Directors bring their expertise and experience to ensure that the Foundation's testing procedures meet the highest standards and are relevant to the needs of consumers.

The board of directors could play a strategic role in deciding which products to test. Given the complexity and specialized market for massage chairs, the Council may have concluded that the Foundation's resources could be more effectively deployed in other areas that appeal to a broader consumer base. These considerations may be a key factor in the recent reluctance to conduct testing in this particular segment, with a focus on product categories that have greater immediate relevance to the general public.

Sources

https://www.test.de/unternehmen/stiftung-5017075-6056569/