Patio Hearth and Products Report January/February 2015 by Peninsula Media

DELTA HEAT/TWIN EAGLES

PA C I F I C E N E R G Y F I R E P L A C E P R O D U C T S

NORTHCAPE INTERNATIONAL

www.patioandhearthproductsreport.com

I N N O VAT I V E H E A RT H P R O D U C T S

Circle Reader Service No. 2

Circle Reader Service No. 3

CONTENTS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2 0 1 5 67

Vo l u m e 1 0 , N u m b e r 1

64 52

FEATURES 8

By Sharon Sanders Telescope Casual has taken on a massive change effort to improve efficiency and overall service.

GUEST EDITORIAL – THE WARMING ROOM

By Richard P. Garza A principal of a national architecture company explains the growing popularity of the warming room in residential designs.

85 32

By Sharon Sanders This exceptional retailer relies on great design and great service to attract a growing number of customers.

HEARTH RETAILER PROFILE – ELEGANTLY ECLECTIC

By Sharon Sanders This upscale fireplace boutique attracts customers with discerning tastes.

SHOWROOM SHOWCASE – ONE OF A KIND

AS I SEE IT – GLOWING BRIGHTLY

By Sharon Sanders The originator of the fire table discusses the evolution of this popular product.

MY TURN – BRANCHING OUT

By Jesse Burkhart Popular grill manufacturer Twin Eagles will introduce three new stainless-steel models under its Del Sol brand.

62 ON THE COVER | INNOVATIVE HEARTH PRODUCTS; WWW.IHP.US.COM

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

PRODUCT INNOVATION – RETHINKING THE FIREPLACE

By Cheryl Dangel Bartolini New technical and design features of the Heat & Go line are turning heads.

INSIGHT – THE WAY THINGS WERE

By Cherise Forno Elmira Stove Works’ vintage-style appliances evoke nostalgia for simpler times.

INSIGHT – PROTECTING ASSETS

By Cherise Forno Gold Eagle’s cleaning products are essential for customers who want to extend the life of their furniture.

OUTDOOR GRILLING – BOOM TIMES

By Cheryl Dangel Bartolini Year-round grill sales are strong for this Pennsylvania retailer.

MARKETING MANEUVERS – INSIDE TO OUTSIDE

By Kimberly Rodgers An interior-furniture veteran prospers in the outdoor-furniture market.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT – SURGING FIREPLACE SALES

By Cheryl Dangel Bartolini A stronger economy and new-product introductions boost demand for fireplaces.

CORPORATE PROFILE – REINVENTING A COMPANY

LAST WORD – MODERN AND MIGHTY

By Greg Thompson Napoleon’s next-generation hearth and grill products are guaranteed to sell well in the coming years.

IN EVERY ISSUE 6

“WILD” PUBLISHER’S VIEWPOINT

INDUSTRY NEWS –

WHAT’S NEW: 6 HOT PRODUCTS TO SELL NOW

PRODUCT PROFILES

PRODUCT PROFILES DIRECTORY

AD INDEX

Edited by Kris Kyes

AGIO LEADS. OTHERS FOLLOW. ®

In the world of outdoor, there are many manufacturers that follow the industry trends and offer look-alike products. Then there’s Agio, with retailer support, tools and training, leading-edge design and uncompromising product quality. To see your sales soar, trust Agio with your next big adventure and leave the others behind.

To discover the benefits, and the profits, of becoming an Agio retailer, visit agio-usa.com/retailer today. Agio is the registered trademark of Agio International Company, Ltd.

Circle Reader Service No. 5

Life Begins Outdoors.™

PUBLISHER’S VIEWPOINT

“Wild”

Never give in—never, never, never, never . . . —Winston Churchill

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

COURTESY OF DEBBIE MIGLIARO

What they didn’t understand was that Strayed had no intention of quitting, regardless of how difficult her situation became. To Strayed, quitting was simply not an option. It’s true that at times, she did think about quitting. At times, the thought of packing it in and getting off the trail was as tempting to her as some of the unhealthy life choices she had previously made—but she did not quit. “Unbroken” chronicles the life of Zamperini, from his upbringing in the modest Los Angeles suburb of Torrance, California, to his track-star days at the University of Southern California to his performance in the 5,000-meter distance event in the 1936 Olympics to his military career (and 47 days spent adrift in the Pacific Ocean after a plane crash) to the more than two years he spent in a Japanese prisoner-ofwar camp, enduring brutal and inhumane treatment at the hands of his captors. Determined to destroy him, Mutsuhiro (the Bird) Watanabe Louis (1918–2003)—one of Zamperini the main guards at the prison camp—did everything in his power to break Zamperini. Not only was the barbaric prison guard unable to break him, but Zamperini’s will, desire, and determination not to quit, even in the face of extreme hardship, became inspirations for the other prisoners in the camp. The movie “Selma” tells the story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929–1968) and the thousands of protestors and marchers of all races and religions who took up the mantel of securing voting rights for the U.S. black population. The three 1965 marches from JONI KABANA

hree different generations, three completely unique sets of circumstances, three entirely disparate life experiences, and three distinct goals—yet there’s a common thread through which all three are connected. The thread that binds all three is that of burning desire, aspiration, and commitment not to quit in the face of extreme adversity. “Wild,” based on the book “Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” (Knopf, 2012) by Cheryl Strayed; “Unbroken,” based on the book “Unbroken: A World Dr. Martin War II Story of Survival, Luther King Jr. Resilience, and Redemption” (Random House, 2010) by Laura Hillenbrand; and “Selma,” based on the 1965 civil-rights marches and protests are three critically acclaimed movies that premiered in December 2014. Strayed; Louis Zamperini (1917–2014), subject of “Unbroken”; and the 1965 civil-rights marchers and protestors are as different as night and day. In some respects, though, their true stories are as similar as peas in a pod. “Wild” is the story of Strayed’s backpacking journey of more than 1,000 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), which took her from the Mojave desert in California to the Bridge of the Gods, which spans the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington. Strayed had no backpacking experience, very litCheryl Strayed tle knowledge of the PCT, and a desire to backpack alone, so it’s no wonder that her friends and family told her, prior to her departure for the PCT, that she could always quit at any time.

Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, eventually led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Facing arrest, beatings, tear-gas attacks, and even possible death, the protestors and marchers would not be deterred. Instead, they faced their enemies with the lyrics of “We Shall Overcome” ringing in their ears. Quitting in the face of extreme adversity would have been easy and well understood. What their adversaries did not realize was that the infamous words, “No más,” spoken many years later by the Panamanian boxer Roberto Durán Samaniego during his 1980 welterweight-title rematch with challenger Ray Charles (Sugar Ray) Leonard, were not part of their vernacular. To business owners and businesspeople, there are many times when quitting and throwing in the towel not only become compelling ideas, but also seem to be wise choices. More often than not, however, staying the course, competing in the face of adversity, and not giving up during challenging trials and tribulations are better decisions. As Strayed, Zamperini, and the 1965 civil-rights protestors and marchers all exhibited, the key is just to keep putting one foot in front of the other. As we move into a new year, the vast majority of us will never even come close to experiencing (and having to endure) what Strayed faced on the PCT; what Zamperini encountered in a prison camp; and what the 1965 civil-rights protestors and marchers faced during their five-day, 54-mile march from Selma to Montgomery. We can, however, take inspiration, direction, and encouragement from these three incredible stories, which depict—in full detail—the best of the human spirit: when one sets out to accomplish a goal, when quitting is not an option, and when the famous 1941 words of Winston Churchill (1874–1965), “Never give in— never, never, never, never,” ring true. Tony Ramos tramos@peninsula-media.com

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GUEST EDITORIAL PUBLISHER Tony Ramos

THE WARMING ROOM

tramos@peninsula-media.com by RICHARD P. GARZA

cdauswrite@socal.rr.com

For centuries, the main gathering space of the home was designed with a fireplace and hearth surround. Symbolically, the fireplace carried a sense of stability, strength, calm, comfort, and security. This was referred to as the hearth of the home. The idea was expanded to encompass an entire room anchored by the fireplace and hearth surround. The expectation of coming into the home, moving through it and into the main gathering space, and finding the hearth of the home there grew to be a commonly used element in home design. Over the years, use of this theme continued to grow, and it did not matter whether the house was located in a cold-climate or warm-climate region. The simple fact was that a fireplace carried the connotations of stability, strength, calm, comfort, and security. These were (and currently are) sought-after feelings in traditional and contemporary home designs. Moving forward to current and future home-design elements, the same set of ideas has maintained a strong presence; however, its use has expanded. We now use the fireplace and hearth surround in multiple locations in the home, and they have continued to grow in popularity. Fireplaces are being installed in master bedrooms, master bathrooms, dining rooms, family rooms, outdoor rooms, and patio/pool areas. The warmth and ambience they provide make them perfect additions to these nontraditional locations. Double-sided fireplaces can even straddle multiple rooms, such as master bedrooms and master bathrooms. 8

EDITOR Carol Daus

ART DIRECTOR Cassandra Estes cassestes1968@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kris Kyes

STAFF WRITERS Cheryl Dangel Bartolini Jesse Burkhart Cherise Forno Kimberly Rodgers Sharon Sanders Greg Thompson SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Greg Thompson CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Alyssa Sands

Richard P. Garza

One of the more recently reintroduced uses of space is the warming room. The warming room has been around for quite a long time; it has been used in much older homes. While the trend in home design, in many regions, has been the idea that bigger is better (and the home, in general, has grown substantially), today, we have reinterpreted the warming room as a much smaller family room. This particular room has become a popular space where family members can gather in a more intimate setting. Depending on the size of the home, the proportions of the warming room will vary, but it is not—by any means—a large space. It features the fireplace and hearth surround as central design elements in the space. This warming room is usually placed relatively close to the kitchen and breakfast area, and it serves as a quiet, relaxing room for reading or for discussing the day’s events and what is being planned for the future. It is a space that is used

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

by family members and their close friends. The beauty of all the technological advances and changes made to the latest versions of fireplaces is that they have become incredibly efficient and can be designed into the space with relative ease. The warming room does not emphasize televisions, computers, or stereo systems as primary visual elements. The focal point is the fireplace, and the purpose of the room is to foster strong relationships with loved ones. It’s a warm, intimate place where family discussions take place, along with other quiet pursuits. The warming room, in many ways, resembles the old breakfast table. Incorporating a warming room into a house design now means that the hearth of the home is clearly the heart of the home.

BUSINESS MANAGER Susan Razetto CEO & PRESIDENT Tony Ramos Corporate Office Peninsula Media 21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 700 Torrance, CA 90503 (310) 792-7448 Fax (310) 792-7449 www.patioandhearthproductsreport.com

Tony Ramos Peninsula Media 21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 700 Torrance, CA 90503 (310) 792-7448 (310) 792-7449/Fax (310) 968-3962/Cell tramos@peninsula-media.com

SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES: Patio & Hearth Products Report PO Box 2190 Skokie, IL 60076-7890

Richard P. Garza is principal of RPGA (Fort Worth, Texas), a national architecture company. He has worked on residential projects in 27 states.

Subscribe online: www.peninsula-media.com/subscribe.html Email: patioandhearth@halldata.com Phone: (847) 763-9261

Circle Reader Service No. 9

INDUSTRY NEWS Melanoma International Foundation Awards Phifer’s Fabrics Seal of Approval Phifer Inc., global manufacturer of energy-saving sun-control fabrics, announces that more than 30 of its interior and exterior sun-control fabrics have been recognized by the Melanoma International Foundation (MIF) and awarded its prestigious seal of approval for outstanding products and promotion of sun-safe behaviors, in accordance with the MIF mission statement. According to Bill Strickland, Phifer’s national market manager for sun-control products, “Phifer is proud to partner with MIF in its promotion of sun safety, and it is an honor to receive its seal of approval. The importance of sun safety cannot be overstated as we strive to communicate the effectiveness of our sun-control fabrics.” All products acknowledged by MIF must pass a series of rigorous independent tests and demonstrate a high level of effectiveness in protecting against melanoma. Following testing, the product is reviewed

by a committee (including physicians, melanoma experts, and MIF staff ) to determine whether the product is suitable to receive the seal of approval. Phifer SheerWeave interior sun-control fabrics can be fabricated into all types of window treatments and are easy to maintain. SheerWeave helps reduce solar heat and glare, thereby lowering energy costs, and it helps prevent the fading of interior furnishings—all while maintaining excellent outSheerWeave by Phifer ward visibility. Installed as a screen on the outside of the window, Phifer’s exterior sun-control fabrics can screens work with the window open or closed, problock up to 95% of solar heat and glare before it viding daytime privacy while reducing the fading of enters the glass. This results in a more comfortable drapes and furniture. In addition to these benefits, the indoor temperature, more efficient air conditioning, screens also allow excellent outward visibility and and (ultimately) energy conservation. Sun-control insect protection.

Treasure Garden Hires Candy Chase As Its National Sales Manager

Shade-products manufacturer Treasure Garden has rehired Candy Chase as its national sales manager. She previously held this position from November 2012 through May 2014. She will remain in Arizona and will be responsible for managing the company’s retail-sales team and for working on product development. Her experience in the casual industry began in 1999, when she became the purchasing manager for California Backyard in Sacramento, California. Over the past 15 years, she has worked for several casual specialty retailers in California and Arizona. Candy Chase Margaret Chang, president of Treasure Garden, says, “Candy is a highly respected member of our industry, and her extensive experience will help our company continue its climb to new levels. She has tremendous expertise at managing, working with, and training our talented sales staff and in helping our retailers maximize their sales potential. We are glad to have her back as a part of the Treasure Garden team.”

Homecrest Appoints Todd Wingrove Vice President of Sales

Todd Wingrove reunites with Homecrest Outdoor Living as vice president of sales, bringing the company more than two decades of industry experience. Wingrove—based in Grand Rapids, Michigan—will be responsible for all aspects of residential and commercial sales throughout North America. Including his earlier tenure at Homecrest as director of sales, Wingrove has a wealth of management experience with indoorand outdoor-furniture companies. Hekman Furniture, DMI Furniture, Meadowcraft, and (most recently) SunVilla have all Todd Wingrove benefited from his 28 years in the industry. Tim DeJong, CEO of Homecrest, says, “I have always found Todd to be professional, motivated, and an exceptional leader. We are thrilled to have him back where he belongs, guiding our sales force and introducing our innovative products to the marketplace.” 10

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

OW LEE NAMES PAUL ROGERS DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT OW Lee (Ontario, California), manufacturer of high-end outdoor furniture, firepits, and accessories, has appointed Paul Rogers as its new director of product development. Rogers will direct OW Lee’s newproduct design, development, and introduction, as well as new-concept development and Paul Rogers material procurement for the research/development department. He will report to Chris Goff, vice president of production. In his previous position as a designer for OW Lee, Rogers worked alongside Brian Lee, former vice president of research and development, to bring innovative new products to market. When Lee left OW Lee last winter to pursue other ventures, Rogers stepped in to help bridge the gap from development to production. Rogers has been designing furniture for OW Lee for more than 10 years and has been with the company since January 2012 as a full-time employee. Some of his most notable designs include the San Cristobal, St. Charles, and Ashbury collections. OW Lee was founded in 1947 in Pasadena, California. It is a premier manufacturer of fine wrought-iron and wrought-aluminum outdoor furniture and firepits. OW Lee manufactures heirloom-quality products, and it is one of the few remaining companies in the outdoor-furniture industry that still manufactures in the United States.

HearthDistribution.com Increases Its Warehouse Space

Responding to increasing demand, HearthDistribution.com (HDC) has dramatically enlarged its warehouse space in Vancouver, Washington. The company began operations in February 2007 as an Internet-based distributor of hearth, patio, barbecue, and related products. The idea was unique to the industry, as it allowed the individual store to purchase products as needed— at price levels equal to or less than those of early-buy programs. Prior to the inception of HDC, dealers who wanted a deeper discount had to purchase large quantities of products well before the selling season, with the anticipation that they could guess what they might sell during the season. If the dealer’s guess was wrong, there was the stress of the coming payment. The demand for products from HDC has increased each year since its inception—to the point that a larger home was required to meet this demand. The company, previously located in suburban Kelso, Washington, has more than doubled its previous size by moving. With the increased space and the increased velocity of incoming

products, HDC continues its mission to drive profits for the retail dealer with unbeatable prices. Provisions have been made for additional space at the new location as it is required, which is a win–win proposition for the dealer: lower cost, less inventory, and less stress.

The Outdoor GreatRoom Company Launches New Commercial Website Portal

The Outdoor GreatRoom Company has launched its commercial website portal at OutdoorRooms.com. Commercial users such as designers, architects, builders, contractors, and those in the hospitality industry can gain access by submitting their information and will be emailed a password. Once logged in, the user can get product specifications, drawings, and commercial-use guidelines; can browse photos; and can find information about the custom-building process. The Outdoor GreatRoom Company hopes that this access to commercial information will increase and improve relationships with those in the commercial-building industry. Gain commercial access at www.outdoorrooms.com/com mercial-login/.

AGIO-USA NAMES SALDANA VICE PRESIDENT OF PRODUCT MARKETING Leonard Saldana has been promoted to the position of vice president of product marketing for Agio-USA. In his new position, Saldana’s priority will be to grow the segment of indoorfurniture retailers by developing products that encourage more traditional retailers to embrace Agio’s outdoor line. Leonard Saldana Bob Gaylord, president of Agio-USA, says, “We couldn’t be happier in naming Leonard to this position.” Saldana’s new role will be to make full use of his knowledge and experience, Gaylord adds, “in developing new products that fit price points that our traditional-furniture retailers need for their customers.” Saldana has been with Agio for 10 years, most recently as vice president of product marketing for the mass segment. “I look forward to this exciting opportunity with Agio,” he says. “Among the most rewarding aspects of my work here at Agio is taking on challenges such as this one.” Saldana’s career path has progressed through the furniture industry, from design to project management and eventually to product development and marketing. A California native, he studied design at Cerritos Junior College and entered the workforce as a junior mechanical draftsman, which opened the door to the field of project management with the CalStyle brand. Before coming to Agio, Saldana was employed for nine years at O’Sullivan Industries. Prior to that, he worked for Sunbeam Outdoor Products, where he first became acquainted with John Oppenheimer, Agio’s executive vice president. Oppenheimer later introduced him to Agio.

Circle Reader Service No. 11

January/February 2015 Patio & Hearth Products Report

INDUSTRYNEWS SUNBRELLA’S CARAVAN COLLECTION CAPTURES THE BEAUTY OF MOROCCO Glen Raven recently introduced its Caravan collection of Sunbrella® fabrics, representing the company’s latest collaboration with renowned designer Richard Frinier. The fabrics are easy to incorporate into living spaces with modern, transitional, and traditional styles, as well as into

Richard Frinier

Caravan from the Richard Frinier collection for Sunbrella®

residential or hospitality environments. The Caravan collection is currently available through interior- and exterior-furnishings manufacturers. It includes two new base-cloth constructions (Sahara and Desert) and five decorative and coordinating patterns (Casbah, Bazaar, Berber, Medina, and Nomadic), each presented in authentic color palettes to create distinctive living spaces. Patio & Hearth Products Report recently sat down with Frinier to learn more about the inspiration behind these lovely fabrics.

How did your travels to Morocco lead to your development of the Caravan collection?

Frinier: My first trip to Morocco was in June 1967. I

traveled alone, on a motorcycle, from London that summer, and I spent two very amazing weeks in what was, for me, my most exotic and memorable cultural experience and adventure. Tangiers, Casablanca, Fez, Meknès, and Marrakech each had

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unique architecture and character. The edge of the Sahara and the deserted coastline were scenes from another era. When I ran low on gas, I pulled off the road into a small village. It seemed that all activities stopped,

and I was surrounded by curious villagers as if I had just arrived from the future. When I unscrewed my gas cap and gestured that I wanted to buy some gas, a can appeared. They waved and cheered as I revved the engine and rode on my way.

What makes Moroccan designs different from those of other countries, in terms of their outdoor-living applications?

What makes the Caravan collection suitable for outdoor home and hospitality use? Frinier: I believe the textural constructions, ethnic

patterns, and tonal colorways are unique and add timeless and authentic styling—for both residential and hospitality environments. The fabrics have a vintage appeal, gently irregular and perfectly imperfect by design. The crafting of the original, handmade Beni Ourain tribal rugs has been passed along for generations; the rugs were popularized by Le Corbusier (Charles-Edouard Jeanneret-Gris, 1887–1965) during the Midcentury Modern architectural movement. Today, architects and designers are on the lookout for a little touch of the exotic. Accent pillows, ottomans, and upholstery provide the perfect effect to incorporate personality into their interior and exterior design environments.

Why was Glen Raven/Sunbrella the appropriate textile manufacturer for your collaboration on Moroccan-inspired designs? Frinier: I have been working with Glen Raven’s

Sunbrella brand for nearly three decades, and there is no finer weaver of performance fabric than Glen Raven. Aside from the authentic design motifs, textures, and colorways we were able to achieve, the durability, fade resistance, and cleanability of Sunbrella textiles is second to none. The company is simply the best at what it does.

Frinier: In Marrakech, I stayed at the Grand Hotel, across from the Grand Plaza, in the heart of the city. The rooms had no air conditioning; rather, the walls of each room stopped short of the ceiling, where fans circulated the air. Even in June, few went outside, as the daytime temperatures are above 100 degrees. Fabric awnings and umbrellas on rooftop terraces and the water fountains in the courtyards cool many residences in the city, but it is at night that life in the city comes alive.

How can these fabrics can be used in outdoor settings?

What makes the Caravan collection unique?

Frinier: The Caravan collection is currently being

Frinier: The Caravan collection takes its name from the camel trains that were still crossing the Sahara during my first journey to Morocco. These exotic trade routes and the nomadic life of the Bedouin tribes led to my inspiration to create this collection. My focus, in this collection, was to reinterpret the handloomed textiles woven over the past century by the Beni Ourain tribes of nomadic sheep herders. Wool from their sheep is left natural. Wool from the black and brown sheep creates a contrast to the predominantly unbleached white fiber. These nomadic tribes (who live on the eastern slopes of the Atlas mountains) weave textiles that are almost primitive in pattern, in contrast to the bold geometrics and bright colors typically woven in Fez.

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

Frinier: In addition to being used for upholstery, pillows,

and poufs, fabrics in the Caravan collection can enhance the outdoor room with drapery, curtains, awnings, and umbrella textiles. Patterns from this collection can be sewn into tablecloths and slipcovers. Sunbrella fabrics are perfect for indoor applications, too, as they make everyday-living items much easier to keep clean.

What plans are there for your Moroccan designs? presented to Sunbrella’s customers. Depending on the success of the collection, more colors and additional patterns will follow. As for my interest in Moroccan crafts, I have designed collections for Dedon inspired by my adventures in Morocco, including its now classic Daydream daybed and its Marrakesh collection; both continue to be available to the trade. In the future, there will always be a place to show my affection and inspiration, reminding me of my travels in Morocco. Being there is such a sensate experience that it really never leaves—so I can say that from time to time, the essence or spirit of my travel experiences in Morocco will appear in certain design details, when the spirit moves me or the design calls for such a unique and romantic character.

Circle Reader Service No. 13

INDUSTRYNEWS ERRATUM

TREASURE GARDEN EXPANDS INDEPENDENT SALES-REPRESENTATIVE TEAM Treasure Garden has added four new independent sales representatives to its team. Greg Kavoklis, Stacey Riley, and Laurie Falconer have been named to represent the Treasure Garden product line in regions of Southern California. Hired to represent both the Treasure Garden and Shademaker brands in the Pacific Norwest is Brian Browning.

On page 20 of the November/ December Spotlight column, we unintentionally left out a photo of

The Harman XXV pellet stove

Greg Kavoklis

Stacey Riley

Laurie Falconer

Brian Browning

Jeff B. Dorough, vice president of sales and marketing for Treasure Garden, says, “Their knowledge of the outdoor segment (coupled with enthusiasm and passion for creating results for their lines) was what drew us to add Greg, Stacey, Laurie, and Brian to our sales team. Each one of them brings us a professionalism and level of experience that will prove to be a valuable asset for further growth of our brands in these areas of the country.” Kavoklis has been named to represent Treasure Garden’s product lineup in Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Kern, and San Luis Obispo counties. Riley and Falconer, of Patio Fireside Specialist and Contract Design, will be responsible for sales in San Bernardino, Orange, Riverside, San Diego, and Imperial counties. Browning, who has been self-employed as an independent salesperson since 2012, will represent the Treasure Garden and Shademaker lines in Washington, Oregon, Montana, and Idaho. Kavoklis’ current lineup of manufacturers represented includes RH Peterson, Klaussner Outdoor, Pride Family Brands, and Malibu Outdoor Living. Riley and Falconer also represent RH Peterson, Telescope Casual Furniture, and Ratana Home and Floral. Along with Treasure Garden and Shademaker, Browning will also represent Summer Classics, Paragon, Propac Images, Gabby, Jaunty Rugs, and CR Laine.

Innovative Hearth Products Forms Joint Venture With Stellar Hearth Products

Innovative Hearth Products (IHP) has formed a joint venture with Stellar Hearth Products to include a line of custom fireplace products designed by Stellar and marketed as part of IHP’s Astria brand. The venture’s product scope is planned to focus on fireplaces and inserts with ease of installation, low maintenance, and stylish design options, inclusive of an offering of customizable fireplaces. Several versions of the new-product designs will be displayed during HPBExpo and at the company’s open house hosted at the Nashville, Tennessee, headquarters during spring 2015. Glenn Thomson, executive vice president of sales and marketing for IHP, says, “We are excited to join forces with the Stellar team. Stellar’s renowned product-design excellence paves the way for the venture’s success. This, com14

bined with the Astria brand’s existing position in the market, provides for one of the most creative and technologically advanced fireplace offerings in the industry.” The union of Stellar’s design expertise and Astria’s branding and marketing campaigns is slated to broaden product portfolios for hearth dealers, benefiting them with a more robust line of state-of-the-art products and innovative options for retail purposes. Stellar’s recently acquired approval of a UL–listed, totally customizable fireplace will supply designers, architects, builders, remodelers, and homeowners with complete design flexibility. “We are confident, through our network of distributors and dealers, we will be able to provide fantastic exposure for this exciting product line,” Thomson says. “Our IHP and Astria brand team plans to broaden the concept into a variety of well-promoted configured units as well.” IHP will be announcing new products resulting from the venture beginning in March, at HPBExpo.

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

Flue Sentinel Dampers Approved As Alternative to Glass Doors

Field Controls recently received International Code Council (ICC) approval for Flue Sentinel® FSM and FSE dampers as alternatives to glass doors on fireplaces. With the Flue Sentinel, the beauty (and enjoyment) of an open hearth is an option that meets extensive building-code and safety requirements, while saving energy. Shahin Moinian, ICC president, says, “The ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) has confirmed that Field Controls’ Flue Sentinel complies with the provisions of the International Fuel Gas Code, International Mechanical Code, International Residential Code, and International Energy Conservation Code. This confirmation, as evidenced in ICC-ES listing ESR-3661-PMG, provides guidance to code officials faced with approving the use of the Flue Sentinel under these codes.” The ICC-ES is the U.S. leader in

the Harman XXV pellet stove. As a result, we have included a photo here, as well as some information on this new stove. The XXV pellet stove offers exquisite cast-iron detailing in a high-performance pellet stove. It is loaded with premium technology and is designed to highlight the many years of Harman excellence. The XXV produces 50,000 Btu (heating 900 to 2,300 square feet, based on climate and home efficiency) and features a 65-pound hopper capacity. Exhaust-sensing technology constantly monitors and adjusts heat levels within one degree, maintaining precise temperature control. The XXV is also the quietest pellet stove in the Harman lineup.

evaluating building products for compliance with codes. A nonprofit, public-benefit corporation, the ICC-ES performs technical evaluations of building products, components, methods, and materials. With over a decade of experience, the ICC-ES is an internationally trusted evaluation service. Patrick Holleran, president of Field Controls, says, “Field Controls’ Flue Sentinel dampers allow homeowners and builders the reassurance that their open-hearth fireplace will be just as safe as it is beautiful.” Flue Sentinel products are manufactured by Field Controls, a leader in airmovement, air-control, and air-quality products. Field Controls’ new “Healthy Hearth Guide” is now available. For information, visit www.fieldcontrols.com or call (252) 522-3031. continued on page 91

Circle Reader Service No. 15

SPOTLIGHT

SURGING FIREPLACE SALES New designs and product enhancements spark sales for North American hearth manufacturers. by CHERYL DANGEL BARTOLINI

As we embark on 2015, many fireplace manufacturers agree that two things stand in the forefront of the industry: a wealth of business and a high demand for clean designs. It seems that for years, we’ve been talking about the lack of business (largely due to the economic downturn), along with the increasing trend favoring sleek designs. Now, it appears that business has turned around, most assuredly. Nick Bauer, president of Empire Comfort Systems (Belleville, Illinois) reports that the boom in business is

the result of a “perfect storm of positives over the past 18 months. We were coming off of two warm winters and a decline in the housing sector, with very little consumer confidence. We had a strong winter in 2014, and the polar vortex kicked it up another level. The housing market has finally recovered off the bottom from a few years ago, and I think people are feeling a little better about their personal finances after many tough years,” he says. Growth is the new industry buzzword. “We are struggling to keep up with the demand. It is a great problem to have, but it is really testing our capabilities,” Bauer adds. Kurt Rumens, president of Travis

Industries (Mukilteo, Washington), is in the same boat. “Travis Industries has hired more employees to keep up with demand,” he says. The higher demand is due, in part, to a trend in which homeowners want two or three different fireplaces installed in their homes. He adds, “It is becoming more common to have multiple fireplaces of various styles and sizes installed in the home, in just about any room. This trend is even more prevalent for new homes and remodeling.” Paul Miles is director of sales for Miles Industries/Valor Fireplaces (North Vancouver, British Columbia). He identifies today’s primary influences on the hearth market as “the generally improving U.S.

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Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

1. Regency’s HR14E fireplace 2. The Casco fireplace by Pacific Energy 3. Napoleon’s STARfire™ 52 fireplace 4. Twin-Star’s 26MM5591-M319 media mantel

economy, coupled with last year’s winter storms. In fact, the polar vortex is responsible for driving sales in Canada and the United States, where memories of cold weather and power failures are still fresh in consumers’ minds,” he says. CLEAN DESIGNS With sales increasing, what is being bought? Brian Brigham, director of marketing and public relations for Twin-Star International Inc. (Delray Beach, Florida), says, “We are seeing a big push in more contemporary designs and premium finishes, with a push for texture and colors in both wood and laminate finishes.” Jess Baldwin, vice president of sales and customer service for Vermont Castings Group (Paris, Kentucky), says, “We see the current trend toward contemporary and modern designs growing, over the

next several years. As the Millennial generation begins to reurbanize, we anticipate fireplaces shrinking in size—and alternative fuel types, such as electric power, becoming more popular. The greatest force driving this transition is the Millennial generation, as its members become homeowners.” Glenn Thomson, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Innovative Hearth Products (IHP), Nashville, Tennessee, agrees. He says that popular designs feature fewer louvers, less metal showing, and more variations. Miles adds, “We see a mix of traditional and contemporary styles, with an emphasis on clean design.” Stephen Schroeter, senior vice president of sales, marketing, and administration fo Napoleon Products (Barrie, Ontario) reports that Napoleon is getting many requests for even larger versions of its products and for custom-made units with “less metal and more visible glass viewing areas, as well as different options in media. Stronger than ever, larger flames are what consumers also tend to be buying,” he says. He concurs that the younger generation is driving this trend. This is due to “a combination of home design, new products seen on many HGTV–type shows, architects and designers promoting these types of products, and consumers wanting a change,” he notes. Although big products are gaining, Bauer is also seeing a trend favoring simpler, cleaner designs that fit smaller rooms and are perfect for the new por-

trait-style fireplaces. He says, “New burner designs, such as a snake shape, create new flame patterns. Everyone is trying to do something different from the standard traditional or linear fireplace.” Thomson says, “The design trends are being driven by fire as a form of art. There are new looks and shapes, and many units are being promoted with modest heat output, for possible use all year round (or in parts of the country without the need for heat).” Shape is not the only new trend in clean designs, according to Crystal Lang, product manager for Regency Fireplace Products (Delta, British Columbia), who is seeing an increase in the range of offerings of faceplates in multiple colors. In addition, she says, “More media have caught the attention of dealers and consumers.” NEW TECHNOLOGY Advanced technology is also playing a big role; it shows up increasingly in our personal accessories and appliances, and Brigham says, “Our fireplaces are no different. We are seeing (and already addressing) this trend as we move to improve our multifunction media mantels and wall mantels. With the addition of Bluetooth technology, paired with full-range speaker bars, these pieces are becoming more and more technologically advanced.” Aesthetics aside, technology is also playing a role in how the fire burns. “In the wood sector, we expect to see more catalytic models brought to

5. Travis Industries’ gas fireplace, the 864 TRV clean face, by Fireplace Xtrordinair 6. Innovative Hearth Products’ Rhapsody fireplace 7. Supreme’s Galaxy fireplace 8. Valor Fireplaces’ traditional Horizon series 9. Empire Comfort Systems’ direct-vent portrait fireplace 10. The Majestic Patriot (42CFDV) fireplace from Vermont Castings Group

market, with emissions control being a large concern. For the gas sector, consumers are demanding greater turndown abilities and more design options,” Lang says. “The requirement for greater turndown is driven by smaller urban dwellings requiring less heat output and by newer homes built with higher insulation values. In the wood sector, consumers are more aware of environmental factors when burning wood, and the catalytic technology not only reduces emissions, but also prolongs the life of the fuel when burning,” she adds. Anastasia Marcakis, sales manager for Supreme Fireplace (Montreal, Quebec), says that design isn’t the only thing that the younger generation of homeowners is influencing. “After the housingmarket crash, a new generation of homeowners has January/February 2015 Patio & Hearth Products Report

SPOTLIGHT emerged, and its demand for eco-friendly, EPA–certified products using a renewable, economic source of fuel is on the rise. This new type of consumer has been driving this trend,” she reports. Product-development teams were extremely busy in 2014, 1 revising existing models and developing new products to reflect the safety regulations that took effect on January 1, 2015. Paul Erickson, president and CEO of Pacific Energy (Duncan, British Columbia), says, “Very early on, we chose to provide a solution that not only offered safety, but maintained a desir2 able aesthetic in the fireplace.” He continues, “We set out to design a safety barrier that the consumer would want to keep in place after installation instead of removing the screen because it detracts from the fireplace. We believe this is a big step forward in protecting our customers and protecting our dealers. Our design team pushes for innovative integration and the development of safety barriers that are invisible in the overall fireplace experience.” NEW MODELS FOR 2015 Empire Comfort Systems is introducing its first 60-inch direct-vent linear fireplace in 2015. “We couldn’t go much bigger because it wouldn’t make the turns in our paint line,” Bauer says. “We also have an all-new multisided fireplace that takes the clean-faced concept to the next level.” For poolside entertainment, Empire Comfort Systems has stretched its line of outdoor linear fireplaces to include a 60-inch version of the model launched in 2014. “With its LED lighting and a burner concealed under crushed glass, this will definitely 18

1. The Monessen Artisan fireplace from Vermont Castings Group 2. Empire Comfort Systems’ vent-free Boulevard linear see-through fireplace, with a curved burner 3. Twin-Star’s 47IMM8496-G475 infrared media mantel

be the focal point of your outdoor area—and of our booth at HPBExpo. It is a monster,” Bauer states. He also reports that there will be many changes coming due to the new barrier-screen requirement. “Every direct-vent fireplace’s front or door, in 2015, has had to be tested to meet the new screen requirement,” he says. “It was a lot of work for everyone involved.” Miles reports, “The Valor H5 series is a new line of midsized zeroclearance fireplaces with clean design options, a choice of fuel beds, and smarter controls—with an emphasis on reliability and improved efficiency. It’s aimed at the markets in renovation and custom-home building.”

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

IHP anticipates adding a number of new linear units in 2015. “We have created a joint marketing plan with Big Woods Hearth Products on a totally customizable, fully CSA–certified fireplace,” Thomson reports. “Anything a designer, architect, or homeowner can imagine, we will be able to deliver. This new product is sensational.” Changes to existing IHP products are significant for 2015 due to the barrier-screen ruling for direct-vent units. Thomson says, “Each and every unit with a glass front will require a barrier screen. At IHP, we have already introduced several units with barriers, with the remainder changing over the next few months.” Napoleon recently launched a new large, premium, clean-faced direct-vent fireplace and will complement that by redesigning some older fireplaces, in 2015, to give the company a full range of more modern, clean-faced products. Napoleon will have new designs for gas stoves; two new wood-burning fireplaces; two new vent-free fireplaces; a new linear vent-free fireplace; and a new, more modern wood stove—with some additions to the outdoor gas lineup as well. The company is also greatly expanding its current electric-fireplace offering and will have over 50 new SKUs for dealers to sell. Due, again, to the new barrierscreen regulation, Napoleon went back to the drawing board to change many of its existing designs. In some cases, products required only a simple tweak to add a barrier to an existing unit. In other cases, a complete redesign (to create a new model) was necessary. “We are also looking at new

remote systems, LED lighting, improved venting parameters, and new components,” Schroeter says. In Pacific Energy’s new Flush series, the Casco and Camden gas fireplaces and the Bristol and Bedford gas inserts are all making news. All include high-tech controls and invisible safety screens. “The industry is on the brink of exciting trends and new solutions to deal with increased regulation,” Erickson says. “We are focused—spending three times the industry average on research/development—on developing each of our three core brands: Pacific Energy, Town & Country, and Piazzetta (North America).” The staff at Regency is excited about the company’s latest catalytic wood-burning line. The newest introduction is the F3500, which features hybrid catalytic technology. “In addition to its low emissions, it provides excellent heat output for more than 24 hours,” Lang explains. The company’s latest inserts (the LRI4E, LRI6E, HRI4E and HRI6E) feature radiant heat plus convective heat, and they offer an array of faceplates from Regency’s Vignette series. In addition, the HRI4E and HRI6E also offer multiple options in contemporary media. Lang reports that almost all of Regency’s existing gas products have been going through changes to outfit all glass-front gas heater-rated products with safety screens. “As we review each product to fit the safety screen, we also look at ways we can update the design—either adding more finishes and different media options or creating new faceplate options to suit the changing design needs of the consumer,” she says. “It has been an exciting time for us as we really get to focus on each product and figure out a way to bring it to the next level. We are proud of our safety-screen designs, and they have been well received by the marketplace.” Supreme is promoting its Duet, which the company calls the world’s most efficient see-through fireplace. The EPA–approved Duet is a certified noncatalytic unit, with emissions averaging 3.5 grams per hour. “It can heat over 2,000 square feet, with Btu levels tested at 100,000 per hour,” Marcakis states. “It comes fully equipped with blowers and a built-in barbecue grill. This fireplace can also be installed with

Circle Reader Service No. 19

SPOTLIGHT 1. Innovative Hearth Products’ Scorpio fireplace 2. The Vision stove by Supreme 3. Pacific Energy’s Bedford insert 4. Travis Industries’ 4237 gas fireplace by Fireplace Xtrordinair

one side indoors and the other side outdoors.” Also making news is the Vision, a Vesta Award winner and an EPA–approved certified noncatalytic stove. “It is the first and only see-through stove,” Marcakis reports. She adds that Supreme is currently working on the launch of two new fireplace inserts that will be easy to install, will have a high heat output with low emissions, and will require minimal maintenance. Existing products will be getting more decorative options that will appeal to a broader range of homeowners. Everyone at Travis Industries is very excited about its new fireplace products, but Rumens says, “You’ll have to be at HPBExpo in March to get a firsthand, close-up look at our newest and most exciting fireplace products.” As for existing products, Rumens says that they are always changing. “Over the past four decades, we have never stopped making changes to our products to improve them, based on the demands of the industry and—more important—the needs of our customers. We listen to our customers and give them what they want,” he says. Twin-Star is adding more contemporary and industrial-style pieces to its ClassicFlame line, mixing materials such as wood with metal and glass. “Of course, we’ve started to offer more unique finishes, and this continues to make us the leader in the electric-fireplace industry,” Brigham says. Twin-Star’s fireplace inserts are also on the market, for the first season, with the SpectraFire Plus insert. It allows the user to select a personalized flame, choosing from five different flame colors (campfire, amethyst, midnight fire, spectrafire, and sapphire); five flame-brightness levels; and five flame speeds— from a gentle, flickering fire to a roaring blaze. On all of its infrared inserts, the company now includes its Safer Plug™, which works by continually monitoring the temperature of the insert’s plug. “If a power surge or possible fire-causing temperature is detected, the plug shuts off power to the device, saving it (and your home) from possible damage and alerting you that there may be an issue with your wall outlet or your home’s wiring,” Brigham explains. In 2014, Vermont Castings Group introduced the 20

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

Patriot line of direct-vent fireplaces in three different sizes: 33, 36, and 42 inches. Baldwin explains that each model is essentially four fireplaces in one; the Patriot has a clean-faced (louverless) design and can be top or rear vented, with an innovative burner design that allows the use of contemporary media or traditional logs. Also new in 2014 to the Monessen (Artisan) and Majestic (Applause) brands was a new contemporary, vent-free linear fireplace featuring a vibrant flame, a glass-illumination and accent-lighting system, and porcelain panels as standard features. To meet the new safety-barrier requirements, the company will continue the rollout of new products to replace existing models.

Miles says, “We’re making continued improvements and tweaks to trims and installation accessories to make products better able to accommodate more applications—in particular, retrofit applications. This type of development is important, as the retrofit market is ideally suited to specialty retailers and is a core of the business. We also are moving to consolidate SKUs and make products more flexible, allowing dealers to carry inventory while increasing consumer choice.” WHAT’S NEXT What should we be on the lookout for, going forward? Efficiency will be the watchword for hearth products, according to Bauer. He says, “I think the U.S. Department of Energy is about ready to come back at us with a ban on standing pilots or more efficiency requirements. We are at low tide for gas prices right now, but all it takes is a good cold winter, and consumers will begin looking for ways to save on heating. The challenge for engineers is to maximize the efficiency while maintaining an aesthetically appealing flame. This becomes especially challenging in a large fireplace.” Schroeter says, “Obviously, greater efficiency numbers are always on the table, so that will continue to be a mandate for all of us, but I think the continuation of the linear design (in both gas and wood products) will still lead the way, as well as more outdoor offerings. The more modern wood-stove design is of interest to us, and there seem to be more requests for this type of product.” Lang says, “We expect to see technologies continuing to evolve as more pressure is put on the industry to increase efficiencies. In addition, there will be an increase in app-controlled appliances as consumers look to technology to run their homes.” Brigham has a list of items to expect. “Continued improvement of flame realism, new and innovative finishes, smaller-sized pieces, and an increase in media mantels’ multifunction capabilities—including improved Bluetooth functionality and speaker performance, along with more seamless integration with other everyday electronics,” he says, are all things that will be coming in the future. Marcakis doesn’t expect to see significant technological innovations in the near term, as manufacturers will continue to focus on developing products that will meet new standards. “We do expect to see more design-related advances,” she says, with the emphasis directed toward appearance rather than technology. Baldwin predicts that innovation will focus heavily on aesthetics, in terms of both interior and exterior colors and finishes for products. “Control technology

Circle Reader Service No. 21

SPOTLIGHT

2 1. The Regency LRI6E fireplace 2. The Napoleon High Country 7000 fireplace 3. Valor Fireplaces’ contemporary L2 series

Circle Reader Service No. 22

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

will continue to advance, providing ease of use and an array of convenience features,” he adds. Miles says, “Gas controls need to get smarter and be compatible with new home technologies, and efficiency numbers must continue to improve, in the face of increased regulations.” Will 2015 see continued high levels of sales? Manufacturers answer with a resounding yes. “Overall, we are experiencing a lot more business, and we expect to continue this progress throughout 2015 because we can provide consumers with the best high-quality fireplaces for them, based on their heating and design needs,” Rumens says. “We anticipate steady growth,” Miles says. Thomson suggests that sales of nontraditional products will continue to grow at a significant pace, and Schroeter forecasts a “very strong year: We expect double-digit increases in 2015,” he says. Lang states, “We predict 2015 will be a good year for gas, wood, and pellet products. Increases in housing starts, combined with memories of the brutal winter of 2014, have definitely kick-started sales. Add lower fuel costs, and consumers are more willing to spend money on upgrading their fireplaces and stoves.” Marcakis concurs. She says, “As the housing market and new construction continue to grow, so will our sales.” Baldwin echoes that thought. “We anticipate the market will continue 2014’s growth and expand as the new-housing sector continues to strengthen and as consumer confidence improves,” he says. For 2015, Rumens also makes a prediction. There will be 20% stronger growth, again, for his dealers. Bauer stays cautious. He says, “I’ve said, for the past couple of years, that I was cautiously optimistic, and it has turned out very well for Empire Comfort Systems—so I’m not going to buck the hot streak.” Brigham, too, predicts a good year. He says, “We are seeing a later pickup in the season, closely following winter’s path.” Will there be another perfect storm? Maybe: Brigham says, “We do urge people not to wait: Get out and get your fireplace now, before the next polar vortex is snowing down upon us.”

WELCOME HOME

HEAT FOR LIFE

Let your style shine.

Astria.us.com

IronStrike.us.com

Visit our booth #2222 at HPBExpo • Nashville, TN • March 5-7 Circle Reader Service No. 23

MARKETING MANEUVERS

INSIDE TO OUTSIDE An interior-furniture ace makes a smooth transition to outdoor furniture. by KIMBERLY RODGERS

photography by J&J PHOTOGRAPHY

odd Galler might be somewhat new to the casual industry, but this interior-furniture veteran came armed with decades of retail knowledge when he opened Outdoor Décor Store Inc. (Naples, Florida) in October 2013. Galler’s experience paid off, as the residents of Southwestern Florida welcomed his newest venture with open arms, exceeding his first-year business projections threefold. He says, “It was an extremely strong first year; I am happy to say that we have been very well received.” Galler, who has a 40-year background in interior furnishings—owning stores in Illinois and Naples—first became exposed to the casual market years ago, through a business associate. “A young man came to me and asked to rent a small portion of my store in Naples to sell patio furniture,” Galler says. “I had never really looked at the patio side of the business that closely, but I watched this man parlay his small space into several other stores, and I knew there had to be something there. That experience eventually intrigued me enough to go into the patio business.” After the attacks of September 11, 2001, Galler sold all his furniture inventory, along with his 18,000–square-foot building in Naples. For the next few years, he and his wife, Sharon, watched the changes in the fluctuating business market (they also own a realestate company together). About three years ago, Galler

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

told Sharon that he wanted to get back into the interior-furniture business. “She encouraged me really to think about it; reminded me of the young man who did so well in patio, years ago; and encouraged me to take a look at that market more closely,” Galler says. On October 1, 2013, the Gallers, along with two of their five children,

Top: From left, Dan, Todd, Sharon, and Tim Galler Bottom: The showroom is decorated as an interiorfurniture store would be

Circle Reader Service No. 25

MARKETING MANEUVERS Top and bottom: Sharon Galler is responsible for the store’s award-winning look

opened Outdoor Décor Store. Galler is enjoying every minute of his newest success. The patio business “is a fun business,” he says. “My wife and kids inspired me go into the patio segment, and it is the best move I ever made. It is not nearly as laborious as the interior side, in terms of moving the merchandise—and the manufacturers are very pleasant to work with, too. It’s the best place for me in my life, at this point.” A FRESH APPROACH Because of his extensive background in interiors, Galler brought a new perspective to Outdoor Décor Store. “We are a little bit different from many of the other patio stores in town,” he says. “Our showroom is elegantly decorated and looks more like an interior-furniture store. We pay a lot of attention to detail, as each vignette is beautifully accessorized with place settings, art, accessories, plants, and area rugs.” Galler adds, “We are more of a high-fashion showroom, and we get a lot of traffic from people who are simply curious.” There is even a full-service coffee bar installed in the showroom (which also brings in prospective clients). Galler explains, 26

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

“Many folks will visit us just to have a cappuccino, tea, latte, or espresso while listening to soft music and gentle sounds from the many water features throughout the showroom.” It’s easy to understand why (in June 2014) Outdoor Décor Store won Casual Living’s 14th Annual Merchandising Award for Best First-time Entry, Single Store. “I give my wife the credit for the store’s layout, look, and design—and for why we received the honor,” Galler says. The mild-winter climate of Naples enables people to use their outdoor areas quite often. Galler says, “Many folks want their outdoor rooms to be unique, and that is what we are.” Indeed, in addition to carrying furniture from a host of top-flight manufacturers (such as Lloyd Flanders, Ebel, Gensun Casual Living, Hanamint, Gloster, Summer Classics, and Woodard), Outdoor Décor Store also offers water features, firepits, fireplaces, and outdoor kitchens. Although there are many other casual retailers in the Naples area, Galler comments, “Competition never bothered me, in the furniture industry, because I was always different.” As one of the wealthiest cities in the United States, Naples is also home to one of the country’s highest rates of mil-

lionaires per capita. Galler adds, “Although Naples is generally a high-end market, we find that all people here want nice things. We strive to exceed our clients’ expectations by providing them with quality merchandise that fits their individual lifestyles.” Along with great products, Galler focuses on exemplary customer service. “We take pride in our service. Our warehouse/delivery staff is respectful, efficient, and accommodating. I believe if you go that extra mile for clients, they will come back to you and send their friends,” he says. “If a customer has a problem with an item, we are there the next day. We don’t let anything fester; I can honestly say most of our clients are 100% satisfied.” Outdoor Décor Store’s showroom has 8,300 square feet, with a small attached warehouse (a separate 5,000–square-foot warehouse is located offsite). “We open every piece of furniture in the smaller warehouse, and we detail and inspect it before it goes out for delivery. I personally go out and look at every delivery to make sure it is acceptable for my customer. I want everything right before it leaves the showroom,” Galler says. When it comes to marketing, Galler uses Internet search engines, but he also takes an oldschool approach to advertising. He says, “Instead of reading their news on a computer, many of our customers like the feel of a newspaper, so we do a lot of full-page print advertising.” Another important aspect of promoting the Outdoor Décor Store brand is the company’s website (www.outdoordecorstoreinc.com). The site features a prominent photo of a teak patio set with deep-blue cushions; the same image is carried over on the store’s entrance signs and on all of its delivery trucks. “It’s another way of advertising: You can’t miss our trucks when you drive down the road,” Galler says. The company participates in social media, making regular posts on Facebook that let readers know about sales and that supply links to manufacturers’ websites. STRONG FAMILY TIES Galler says that it has been a wonderful experience to work in the store with Sharon; his two sons, Dan and Tim; and his brother, Greg. He says, “I had the opportunity to work with my father during the last four years of his life, and I worked with my two brothers for many years.” He continues, “A lot of families can’t do it, but I think it is just great. I have five children, so to be able to work with two of them every day is fantastic.” Should Galler ever decide to open another location, he adds, he would love to involve his other children, if they are interested.

Circle Reader Service No. 27

HEARTH RETAILER

ELEGANTLY ECLECTIC Customers love the novel array of products and services found at this upscale fireplace boutique. by SHARON SANDERS photography by BUZZ MEADE

ustic by Design Fireplace & Patio (Morgantown, West Virginia) is a retailer that is a master of diversification. Owners Janet and Jim Merschat never lack fresh ideas for their business’ products, projects, or service. Since its beginning 20 years ago, the family-owned operation has evolved from a home-construction business into a retail fireplace/patio shop specializing in unique home and hearth projects. “I love to help people design and create their dreams,” Janet Merschat says. Her passion for design has given the store a personality unlike that of any other in the area. The store’s 3,200–square-foot showroom is located in an old glassblowing factory that is full of character (Jacqueline Kennedy’s stemware, now in the White House, was made there). The vibe of the store is that of an upscale fireplace boutique (rather than a typical hearth shop), with its rustic concrete floors, stone walls, and cathedral ceilings. The Merschats completely remodeled the building when they moved into it in 2009. The grand centerpiece of the sales floor is a massive glassblowing chimney that was once the heart of the factory. Over the years, the store’s fireplace business has grown and matured, both indoors and outdoors. Its primary lines today include Mendota, Fireplace Xtrordinaire, Valor, Jøtul, Lopi, and Kozy Heat. Its stove/grill business is strong as well. “We put a lot of product on our floor, and we burn everything we can burn. We want people to feel, see, and get a better understanding of what a high-end fireplace or stove (with sophisticated technology) is all about, which is something our competitors don’t do,” Merschat says. The construction portion of the business has stayed steady and is now focused not on home building, but on masonry-fireplace work and on outdoor structures such as pavilions and pergolas. “Our showroom vignettes showcase our professional talents and craftsmanship with one-of-a-kind mantels, surrounds, and outdoor-fireplace designs,” Merschat says. All of the hearth installation and design/build work is done by trained in-house technicians and crews, which further sets the store apart from the pack. Rustic by Design is known in West Virginia and Pennsylvania for its expertise in handling

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

unique or difficult hearth jobs. “The odder and more challenging the job, the better,” Merschat explains, adding that the store’s referral business is its mainstay. Her background in design has given the store an edge that she’s been able to translate into sales. Customers look to her—and to her husband, Jim—for their advice and their can-do attitude. She says, “We can do whatever a person can dream up: It’s not uncommon for a fireplace sale or a simple job to escalate into a larger project because the customer keeps adding more details as it progresses, just because he or she can.” One of her favorite projects was trans-

Top: Custom fireplace/mantel work is featured on the showroom floor so that shoppers can see what is possible Bottom: Jim and Janet Merschat

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Circle Reader Service No. 29

HEARTH RETAILER

Top: Rustic by Design does business in an old glassblowing factory Bottom: Gourmet olive oils and vinegars have been a profitable addition to the business

forming the back deck of a customer’s home into an all-season room, with a fully appointed kitchen that included a Big Green Egg and a sophisticated venting system. Another standout job was a threelevel backyard (on a hillside). The company built a wide staircase leading up to a pool with an aggregate deck; a bathhouse; and a large pavilion, with a firepit and an outdoor kitchen. The Merschats are always looking for ways to diversify. Starting in 2015, they will launch a swimming-pool division. “Many of our customers want 30

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

pools as part of their outdoor construction projects, so instead of sending them to another contractor, we will offer them this service as well,” Merschat explains, adding that Rustic by Design’s knowledge of construction makes it easy to diversify into similar areas. It has hired a pool specialist (with years of experience in pool design and construction) who will be in charge of that portion of the business. In 2013, to complement its grill business, the store began offering balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oils, and flavored oils from a vendor in Oakland, California. These were immediate hits. The Merschats brought in the products in October 2013, and everything was completely sold out by Christmas. There are over 45 flavors available for customers to taste, including balsamic vinegar in blackberry–ginger, juniper-berry, red-apple, and pomegranate versions, as well as olive oil in basil, blood-orange, and green-chili flavors. The product is bottled at the store for customers to bring home. “We had no idea this would be so popular. Initially, I wasn’t interested in another product that I would have to babysit—but when I tasted it, I couldn’t believe how amazing it was. I tried other vendors, and this was the best one, by far,” Merschat says, noting that it required a financial investment, but not one so big that they couldn’t give it a try. The oils and vinegars have become the center-

piece of many of the store’s grilling demos and events. Merschat says, “People can’t believe how much can be done with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, from basting food on the grill to baking cakes— and they are healthy, too.” When the store moved to Morgantown in 2009, the Merschats took the opportunity to hire a new team of employees (with the exception of two veterans), and that step has breathed new life into the 20–year-old business. “It has been refreshing to have a younger group of employees in their 20s and 30s on staff. They bring in fresh ideas, they want to grow, and they are eager to learn new aspects of the business,” Merschat says, adding that she considers them to be an important part of the store’s future. The Merschats have also decided to commit more resources to the outdoor-living portion of the business because interest in outdoor entertaining has taken off in the region. There are already plans in place to update the showroom to include an outdoor-living display that will feature an outdoor kitchen for cooking/grilling demos, as well as to showcase grilling accessories. Merschat says, “We are going to recreate the allseason room with a kitchen that we built at a customer’s home. All-season rooms, which are basically sunrooms with windows instead of screens, are popular because they extend the outdoor-entertaining season through most of the year.” Rustic by Design has high hopes for the future as it keeps its eye on the needs of its market, which is what it has always done. “Even though construction is a large part of our business, we consider ourselves to be a specialty hearth retailer, in terms of our products and expertise,” Merschat explains. “In today’s marketplace, one has to be flexible— because all products and services link together, in some way. Succeeding is about diversifying and being good at what you do.”

Circle Reader Service No. 31

OUTDOOR GRILLING

BOOM TIMES Focusing on customers who want higher-end products contributes to an upswing in sales.

by CHERYL DANGEL BARTOLINI photography by MINNIG PHOTOGRAPHY

usiness is good: Sales are at record levels, but Jay Stong, president of Salter’s Fireplace, Patio & Grill (Eagleville, Pennsylvania), is still running his store lean and mean. “This season was a great year,” Stong notes. It didn’t hurt that his biggest competitor on the patio side of the business closed its doors this year, after 30 years in business. “That gave quite an unexpected spark to our sales,” he adds. That news aside, the economy has turned a corner: He reports, “People have been buying and putting money back into their homes.” Salter’s didn’t slide backward during the economic downturn, for which Stong is grateful. He says, “We were flat for five years until 2013,

though, when we grew by 25%.” Sales in 2014 are well up over those for 2013, which is why Stong is cautiously optimistic. In its earliest days, Salter’s manufactured spiral staircases and operated a hardware store and a ski shop. Then, 40 years ago, the company got into the fireplace business, to boot. In 1993, Stong joined the company as a salesperson for fireplaces and for the manufacturing side of the spiral-staircase business. After about three years, he was running the entire company for the family that owned it, and the business had doubled in size. Stong’s focus was on build32

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

ing up year-round sales, so he got the company into the grill and outdoor/patio sectors of the industry. At his seven-year mark, the owner asked Stong whether he would like to buy the fireplace and outdoor parts of the business; Stong jumped at the chance. He bought those two parts of the company in 2000, and the companies separated. Today, Stong is at the helm of a retail fireplace, patio, and grill store that boasts 16 full-time and two part-time employees, as well as sales of $2.4 million annually. His focus is on everything having to do with indoor and outdoor comfort. Regarding outdoor liv-

Top and bottom left: In 2014, Salter’s celebrated its 40th anniversary with record-breaking sales Bottom right: Jay Stong

ing, “We don’t do the hardscaping, but we work with local experts who do, and we can refer, based on plans and geography. Salter’s provides the appliances and installation for outdoor kitchens, firepits, and grills. We just don’t build patios or decks,” he clarifies.

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OUTDOOR GRILLING and accessories—even in Pennsylvania. Winters can be brutal, but homeowners enjoy outdoor cooking all year long. Stong says, “If they are willing to make an investment in an outdoor kitchen with high-end smokers and grills, the season doesn’t really restrain them.” These days, the ongoing challenge in maintaining year-round sales is knowing which accessories to carry, according to Stong (who says that this is the trickiest part of the grill side of Top: Salter’s offers annual service for fireplaces, grills, and firepits, improving their efficiency and reliability Bottom: The store’s Big Green Egg line performs exceptionally well

Whenever he can, Stong tries to focus on U.S.–made products first. His best-selling products include smokers and pellet grills such as Big Green Egg products and Memphis Wood Fire Grills. Fire Magic is Salter’s main line of gas grills, augmented by products from American Outdoor Grill and Broilmaster. Overall sales are strong, but one trend stands out: a surge in sales for wood and pellet grills. Stong reports, “A lot of people like the cooking of a natural-wood or pellet grill. It is more time intensive than a gas grill, but they appreciate the bettertasting food coming off that type of product, versus a typical gas grill.” Shoppers at Salter’s won’t find any low-end appliances; Stong believes in starting at midrangepriced products and going up from there. His smokers start at about $500, while gas grills typically start at $899 and can cost as much as $12,000 (for the largest portable grill offered). Grill heads for built-in installations, which account for more sales than portable units do, cost an average of $4,000 to $4,500. Stong is starting to see buyers make the investment in both a gas grill and a smoker, despite the higher total price. He says, “Many people will come in and ask for a wood-fired brick oven to go with the grill. When they see what they can do with a pellet unit or smoker, they go for that instead. They find out that a pizza oven sounds good, but is more restrictive—and often, more costly—than a smoker.” Naturally, these dual sales are a win–win proposition for the customer and Stong, who achieved his goal and now enjoys year-round sales of grills 34

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

the business). “With grill accessories, you can get caught with a lot of inventory. Putting in the right mix is difficult. What rubs, sauces, and accessories do you need to have, and what do customers expect you to have? Figuring that out isn’t easy,” he notes. With that being said, selling accessories has become easier since Stong converted a former storage room to an area for displaying grills—located just off the main showroom. “It is probably just a little over 100 square feet of additional space, but it really helped us with accessorizing,” Stong says; his showroom consists of 4,500 square feet indoors and 2,200 square feet outside. STRATEGIC MARKETING Stong relies heavily on the Internet for his advertising. He is well represented on Facebook and Twitter, and he even has a dedicated YouTube channel showcasing everything from new products to how-to videos. The store also maintains presences on Houzz, Pinterest, and Google Plus. To make sure that he comes out at the top in keyword searches on the major search engines, Stong will also regularly change the text on the home page of the store’s website (www.saltersfire place.com) to reflect seasonal topics—from barbecuing in May (national barbecue month) to enjoying indoor- and outdoor-living spaces all year long. He says, “One of the phrases we started using a while ago is outdoor oasis (with how to create one).

Now, we see that phrase being used by the big-box stores, and we were among the first.” Other promotions include grassroots efforts such as working with nine local Little League® teams. Stong doesn’t sponsor their uniforms; instead, he grills at their opening games—and he offers to put 3% of sales to any Little League family back into the league. That can add up to a lot of money for many of these cash-strapped organizations. “We’ve written a check for as much as $1,500,” he reports. Stong has a referral program that also is gaining traction. Customers get a $50 gift certificate for purchases over $500 that they can give to a friend. When the friend uses the certificate, the original buyer gets a $50 certificate to use at the store. “We are seeing this gain momentum,” Stong says, adding that the store also relies on word-of-mouth advertising. “Because of what we’ve done for them, our customers speak very highly of us and refer us to their friends,” he reports. The marketing mix at Salter’s also includes some radio and print advertising promoting two annual events. A grilling kickoff event, held on the first Saturday in May, features different chefs performing cooking demonstrations at the store. It is followed by a fireplace kickoff event held during the second weekend in September. Two factors set Salter’s apart from its competitors, according to Stong. “We are a one-stop shop, compared with the competition around us. First, for almost everything we offer, we have an installation/service side,” he says, adding that his staff can put the electricity or gas lines in place to complete any installation. “We are not referring our customer to a contractor. We can do it all. Second, our salespeople and our other staff members are top-notch. We have a really good team of people,” he says. CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM Good people, good products, and good sales: What could go wrong? Stong isn’t anticipating any problems, but he is reserved. He says, “We are up quite a bit over last year’s numbers, so we’re very excited about how it will be in the near future. I wish I had a crystal ball, but I don’t.” Instead, he recalls when he purchased the company, in 2000. “We were growing very fast when I first bought the business, and in 2007 and 2008 things started changing,” he says. That was a lesson learned, and those who survived tend to temper their enthusiasm with the wisdom that they earned during the downturn. Stong is no different. He says, “We try to run our business lean, and we strive to be inventory driven—because things can change. We try to keep things as minimal as we can, but not so minimal that we can’t provide for change. We are optimistic because we are consistent with our message: quality products for all-year indoor and outdoor comfort, mixed with experienced, personalized service.”

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SHOWROOM SHOWCASE

ONE OF A KIND Luxapatio & The Patio District offers a unique business model that ensures consistent growth. by SHARON SANDERS photography by JOHN SESSA

here is no outdoor-living operation quite like Luxapatio & The Patio District (Miami, Florida). Founders Maria and Hector Londono came to Miami from South America in 2005 to start an outdoor-kitchen design/construction business called Luxapatio— and it has grown into so much more. The ambitious couple (along with family members and business partners) is strategically structuring a company built on great design and great service, tied together with brilliant business sense. Before coming to the United States, the family ran a successful high-end residential-construction business and architectural company, and the Londonos saw an opportunity to translate their years of experience into something new. Their eldest son, Felipe, heads the company’s marketing efforts; he says, “The custom–outdoor-kitchen market in Southern Florida was wide open, because almost everything was prefabricated at the time.

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

We knew there were plenty of people who would be interested in kitchens with personality.” In its first few years, the company experienced a tremendous amount of interest— and consequently, growth. To keep up with its expanding operations, Luxapatio relocated twice before settling into its current location in the upscale Doral Design District. In 2011, the opportunity arose to start a new company called The Patio District (with Freddy Ochoa, an architect and longtime friend, and his wife, Clara Agudelo), and this enabled the company to expand its reach into the outdoor-living arena. “At that point, our business really came

together,” Londono explains. “The Patio District works alongside Luxapatio on many of its projects. We are now not only building outdoor kitchens, but the partnership makes it possible for us to do any kind of custom construction that’s needed for outdoor rooms, from pergolas to fireplaces.” The company added outdoor furniture to the mix in 2012—as another service to its customers, and as a way to furnish its modern, 25,000–squarefoot indoor/outdoor showroom (which has a personality all its own). Londono says, “Many of our customers have huge open spaces, and they look to us to come up with unique concepts that will blow their minds. They need the right furniture that visually pulls everything together. It makes sense for us to be able to show them choices on our own showroom floor, instead of sending them somewhere else.” The store offers brands that reflect the Miami area’s love of modern design, including Kannoa, Source Outdoor, Skyline Design, Seasonal Living, Gloster, and ShadeScapes. The showroom also features eight custom outdoor kitchens, outfitted with appliances from Bull Outdoor, Alfresco, Twin Eagles, Lynx, Sedona by Lynx, DCS, Fire Magic, Big Green Egg, Electri-Chef, Scotsman, and many more companies.

Luxapatio & The Patio District caters to Southern Florida’s luxury market. It is extremely committed to presenting its business in a way that attracts customers who value the service and products that it offers. “Our customers are those people who have always wanted to do something unique to their backyards, but haven’t been able to find the right architects or designers to do the work,” Londono says. The company’s work features details that have a contemporary edge, such as exposed aggregate finishes, modern pergolas, artificial grass, and stainless-steel retractable awnings. The company has a robust marketing campaign that reaches every segment of its customer base through print, direct-mail, and online channels. Its print campaign currently spans six different local magazines, and each magazine targets a particular audience. “We advertise in construction and design magazines, but we also use other magazines specifically for branding purposes—to get our name out there or to showcase a really nice piece of furniture,” Londono explains. The company’s online marketing efforts are highly strategic, with a focus on pay-per-click ads and search-engine optimization (SEO). “SEO marketing is about getting one’s organic ranking on

Top left: Modern Miami style is embodied at Luxapatio & The Patio District Bottom left: Outdoor rooms created by The Patio District reflect contemporary design Top right: From left, Heber Hernandez, Juan Luis Roldan, Lina Gonzales, Hector Londono, Nicole Alba, Felipe Londono, Salome Uribe, Freddy Ochoa, Jackie Restrepo, Carlos Ospina, and Santiago Velez Bottom right: Luxapatio specializes in custom outdoor kitchens

Google higher for AdWords. The only way to achieve a higher organic ranking is to put fresh, new information on the Web constantly: It’s not something you can pay for,” Londono says. The company’s direct-mail campaign has been extremely successful, reaching around 10,000 homes throughout Southern Florida. Londono emphasizes that one campaign doesn’t overshadow another; they all work together. “It’s about understanding who our customer is; understanding the identity of our company; and making sure that it comes across in our ads, on January/February 2015 Patio & Hearth Products Report

SHOWROOM SHOWCASE our websites (www.luxapatio.com and www.thepatiodistrict.com), in our direct mail, and in everything that we do,” he says. For 2015, the company is launching a marketing campaign that highlights its outdoor furniture. “What we’ve realized is that while our construction customers are very loyal (and will probably purchase furniture from us), we are missing out on a huge portion of the market because people don’t see us as a specialty outdoor-furniture retailer,” Londono explains. “We have a phenomenal showroom that inspires everyone who visits, so there is so much potential, if we just tap into it.” In 2014, the company made some pivotal operational changes that will set it up for the future. One of them was the establishment of a client-relationship–management system that gives the sales team the capability of easy tracking for everything that is happening with its sales leads, from the initial contact to the sales conversion. Londono says, “It also helps us pinpoint where we are getting the most business from, so we can target those areas with direct mail.” The company has also changed its sales process, in an effort to prequalify customers better. Its goal is to get people into the showroom before going out to do free in-home estimates for them. “When people have only seen one of our ads or heard about us from a friend, they don’t really know who we are or what we

Eye-catching designs take a front seat on the showroom floor

can do. If they visit the showroom, they can see our work and get an idea of what it might cost,” Londono says, adding that the new sales process has already boosted the conversion rate by almost 20% in just one quarter. Moving forward, Luxapatio & The Patio District sees its biggest challenge to be keeping up with the fast-paced growth of the company. Londono

explains, “At our core, we are a family-owned business, and we have always done everything ourselves. Now that the business is expanding, we realize that we can’t be everywhere and do it all: We have to stop doing and start managing. I know this is something many small businesses face, at one point. We have to grow smart if we are going to achieve the long-term vision we have for our business.”

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AS I SEE IT

GLOWING BRIGHTLY The originator of the fire table discusses the persistent growth of this popular product.

by SHARON SANDERS

California Outdoor Concepts (Tustin, California) is the creator of the original fire table. The company is a trendsetter, with its unique, handcrafted products and intuitive design concepts. Over the past five years, the fire-table category has grown and matured, with many manufacturers jumping into the mix. Patio & Hearth Products Report spent some time with Clint Blevins, owner, to discuss fire tables, their place in the outdoor room, and what the future holds.

What are your thoughts on the surge in the category’s popularity? Blevins: The recent growth has been a big win for the casual-furniture industry. There are an increasing number of companies that are developing their own interpretations of the firepit table after seeing how it fills a niche in the outdoor room. With California Outdoor Concepts being the originator of the firepit table, I’ve had people ask if it bothers me that so many manufacturers have thrown their hats in the ring: I tell them no. I’m thrilled that it has become a legitimate category that is being embraced even by some of the big casual-furniture manufacturers. There is certainly enough business to go around, and I look forward to seeing it mature even more.

Top left: Clint Blevins Top right: The Monterey coffee table Bottom: The Carmel firepit table

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

What has California Outdoor Concepts been doing, over the past few years? Blevins: We continue to evolve, as a company, in many ways. To meet the needs of specialty retailers, we have created a number of new designs in the past two to three years—including our Monterey and Rodeo series, which were developed for the price range of under $2,000, but not less than $1,000. We are offering alternative tabletop designs that include mosaic and copper, and have added 42-inch granite tops (for smaller patios) and 54-inch granite tops (for those who want more seating capability). People have fallen in love with our Del Rio (Spanish for river) coffee table, with a serpentine

burner that migrates through the tabletop in a riverlike fashion. We are the first—if not the only—manufacturer to pull off this unique design. We have also fine-tuned our quality control and extended our technical support.

How has the fire table evolved to meet the needs of specialty retailers? Blevins: The firepit table has matured in many ways. Manufacturers are now making them in a broad range of price points, styles, functions, and sizes that make it possible for any customer to find something he or she can put in his or her outdoor space. Retailers tell us that customers want firepit tables that visually blend with current outdoor-fur-

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AS I SEE IT niture colors and styles—and we are responding by making products that complement what retailers have on their floors. One evolution California Outdoor Concepts has seen, in particular, is a shift in media choices for burners. Not long ago, almost 80% of the tables we sold included gas logs, and only 20% had crushed glass. With today’s trend toward modern designs, glass has become our top seller. We have increased our crushed-glass color choices to include colors such as reflective black, gold, blue, and green.

What sets a fire table from California Outdoor Concepts apart from a table from its competitors?

for ways to make the details in our established products better so customers have more reasons to choose California Outdoor Concepts.

Blevins: Besides our unique designs, the unglamorous answer is access doors. This is a critical element that is overlooked by many manufacturers. As of this year, there are access doors on every unit that we offer. They give customers the ability to open the door on a unit easily—to change out the LP tank, gain access to the natural-gas line, or do something to the bottom part of the burner. We are constantly looking

What are the company’s best-selling products? Blevins: Recently, I would say, some of our bestselling styles have been chat-height firepit tables (which account for about 90% of sales) with granite and nongranite tops. The chat height is popular because it naturally lends itself to casual conversation. With today’s maturing society, the balcony height is rapidly gaining in popularity because it’s easier for someone to slide in and sit down at a table that is higher. It takes away the worry of getting back up from the chair as well.

Which products from California Outdoor Concepts are you most excited about for 2015? Blevins: The biggest thing I am excited about for 2015 isn’t a product. We have done extensive work to create new quality-control protocols. It’s critically important to us that when a customer opens the box with his or her firepit table, it’s exactly what he or she ordered, and it is free from any flaws or defects. I know that the protocols we have put in place will give customers the quality they have come to expect. As far as products go, our Carmel series (with a round tabletop) was a solid performer in 2014. To continue that momentum into 2015, the company is introducing two new models: a 42-inch square table and a coffee table that will work well in smaller backyards and patios.

What do you predict for the firetable category? Blevins: As more companies venture into the category, there are naturally going to be better designs and more alternatives. This is great because it will make firepit tables more appealing to a broader base of consumers— which, in turn, will make it easier for specialty retailers to make sales. A few years ago, I thought the category was at its peak, but I’ve come to realize that this was not true at all. There is still so much to be done.

What does the future hold for California Outdoor Concepts?

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Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

Blevins: All I can say is that there are going to be many, many surprises. We have a number of ideas that we’re working on that will make the outdoor firepit table more fun and more utilitarian. We will unveil our new designs at the Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™ (in September 2015). We will also continue to work behind the scenes to become a better company with which to partner. To me, that is the most significant thing a company can do to ensure the loyalty of its customers—and its future.

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MY TURN

BRANCHING OUT Twin Eagles offers dealers versatility and value with its new brand. by JESSE BURKHART

After spending the past 10 years establishing itself as one of the true luxury brands in the barbecue industry, Twin Eagles (Cerritos, California) is serving up another flavor for its dealers. The manufacturer of barbecue grills and accessories (known for catering to the most affluent of consumers with its premium built-in grills for outdoor kitchens) will soon introduce three stainless-steel grill models under its Del Sol brand, which the company launched in late 2013 as an accessories line. The new grills—along with the Delta Heat brand, launched about five years ago—are part of Twin Eagles’ strategy for becoming a one-stop shop for dealers seeking a broad product assortment for their diverse clients. Brian Eskew, marketing director, says, “Our distributors and dealers do an amazing job with Twin Eagles; they’ve done an amazing job with Delta Heat; and now, we’re 44

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

going to introduce Del Sol through the same channel.” He continues, “This will really give all of our distributors and retailers the opportunity to have a good-better-best strategy—all from one manufacturer. What we’re realizing is that if we don’t offer dealers this product, they’re going to get it from someone else.” The Del Sol grills, which will be unveiled in the second quarter of 2015, were conceived after Twin Eagles’ dealers provided some valuable feedback. Retailers, Eskew recalls, let the company know that their customers were requesting more value-priced options. That prompted Twin Eagles to kick its product-development team into gear. “As consumers enter the outdoor-kitchen category, they’re aware of built-in grills, but there’s not a lot of familiarity with specific brands, so they’re really taking the dealers’ recommendations,” he says. “With the introduction of the Del Sol grill in 2015, we’re going to have three distinctly different product categories to offer our dealers and distributors.” The three brands were created with three different consumers in mind. Twin Eagles is a luxury line designed for the top-spending 3% to 5% of U.S. consumers, while the Delta Heat line targets more

price-conscious consumers and retails for less than half as much. The Del Sol line takes the value-oriented approach one step further with an even lower price tag (and without some of the bells and whistles that come with a Delta Heat grill). Twin Eagles built-in gas grills come in 30-, 36-, 42-, and 54-inch sizes. All models feature optional infrared rotisserie and sear zones, 304c stainlesssteel burners, ceramic briquettes, hexagonal grates, zone dividers to regulate different temperatures, and an easy-to-open hood-assist system. The core line will remain unchanged in 2015, although Eskew says that dealers can expect to see augmented models, as well as a few redesigned accessories, in 2016. In comparison, Delta Heat built-in gas grills run smaller, with 26-, 32-, and 38-inch sizes. All models feature direct-heat and ceramic radiant grilling systems, 18-gauge stainless-steel burners,

Top: Twin Eagles’ 42-inch grill, with a storage door and drawer combo, a side burner and griddle combo, a utensil drawer, a warming drawer, a margarita center, an ice machine, and an outdoor refrigerator Bottom: Delta Heat’s 38-inch grill, with a double side burner, a storage door and drawer combo, a trash drawer, and a trash chute

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MY TURN interior halogen lights, double-lined hoods, and temperature gauges. This line recently received some aesthetic modifications such as black-and-chrome control knobs and blue LED lighting (which have replaced Delta Heat’s traditional lighting and red control knobs). It’s a more stylish appearance designed to appeal to a broader consumer base, Eskew says. By offering three distinct lines in three separate price categories—with a full range of outdoorkitchen equipment and grilling accessories—Twin Eagles is positioning itself to capitalize on emerging consumer trends in outdoor cooking. Perhaps the most significant of those trends, Eskew says, is increased public awareness. Now, more than ever, consumers understand the potential of outdoor kitchens, and they want those kitchens to be more than just backyard cooking stations. “Consumers are a lot further up the learning curve, with respect to what an outdoor kitchen can be,” he says. “They realize that outdoor kitchens are not just for affluent consumers with a tremendous amount of disposable income—and that there are value-priced products that will allow them to build beautiful outdoor kitchens without spending a tremendous amount of money. They’re talking to trade professionals, they’re talking to retailers, and they’re building

kitchens that include all of the amenities that suit their cooking and entertaining styles.” He adds, “It’s not just cooking. For folks who do a lot of entertaining—maybe just having cocktails in their outdoor kitchens—there are bars, refrigerators, coolers, and many incredible amenities that make the outdoor kitchen fully featured and fully functional.” As for the cooking equipment itself, versatility is a top-of-mind consideration for consumers, who are also discovering that accessories add functionality to outdoor kitchens. “Consumers want to be able to do more than just grill in their outdoor kitchens,” he says. “They’re smoking, they’re baking, they’re searing, and they’re using auxiliary cooking accessories such as power burners. We’re also seeing consumers’ average transactions increasing because they’re buying more accessories to complete their outdoor kitchens.” To do those things, they’re turning to Twin Eagles’ versatile product portfolio. Eskew says that several new dealers recently picked up the Twin Eagles line, while the Delta Heat line has grown exponentially since it was redesigned in 2013. With rising demand and the approaching launch of Del Sol, Twin Eagles has been reinvesting some of its increased profits to bolster production capacity and efficiency. In 2013, the company purchased additional square

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Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

footage for administrative offices in a building that neighbors its manufacturing plant in Cerritos, freeing space at the production facility to accommodate more orders. Twin Eagles also purchased additional equipment, including new laser cutters and an automated panel bender. Capital upgrades were of particular importance to the company, which takes pride in manufacturing the bulk of its Twin Eagles and Delta Heat lines domestically. The grills are completely fabricated and assembled in California—from the initially flat sheets of stainless steel all the way through the packaged products. Ultimately, however, Twin Eagles’ reinvestment strategy centers on its customers. Eskew says that competitors have done a good job of introducing products that have all of the performance, reliability, and convenience features that consumers expect, so the operational enhancements position the company to fulfill its mission. “The things that are most important to us when we talk about product improvement are that we want to help consumers cook better-tasting food and we want to make the products easier for them to use,” he says. Achieving that combination is “what’s meaningful to us,” he adds, “and I think we’re doing a good job of that.”

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PRODUCT INNOVATION

RETHINKING THE FIREPLACE Advances in the Heat & Glo line spark new reasons to love fireplaces. by CHERYL DANGEL BARTOLINI

Fireplaces, like times, are changing. To keep up, fireplace manufacturers not only have to realize this, but must change, too. “Historically, fireplaces served as the primary way people heated their homes, but with the advent of whole-home heating and cooling systems, fireplaces have become more decorative. They’re still used as heat sources, but the fact that heating is not their only use has allowed some fun and unique designs to develop,” according to Becky Schribner, brand director for Heat & Glo from Hearth & Home Technologies (Lakeville, Minnesota). What hasn’t changed is that the hearth, then as now, is a cozy haven in the home where families can gather. “It’s been—and continues to be—the heart of the home,” Schribner explains. “Because of that, fireplaces are taking on new roles within a home.” The new role for fireplaces (which are typically found in family rooms and living rooms) has expanded to include their placement in kitchens and bedrooms. This is a throwback to the home layout that was common before the advent of modern heating systems, but fireplaces now have more modern applications, such as in bathrooms, as well.

Top: Heat & Glo’s MEZZO see-through fireplace Center: The Heat & Glo REVO fireplace Bottom: Heat & Glo’s LUX 42-inch fireplace

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

Their expanded role provides homeowners with a way “to customize their spaces, add sophistication, and create ambience,” Schribner says. With the kitchen increasingly being seen as the center of the home, when it comes to family interaction and entertaining, fireplaces are becoming new musthave items. “People feature fireplaces in kitchens for the same reason they use them in a family room: It’s a shared space where families spend a significant amount of time, and they want to be able to extend the feeling they have when gathering around the hearth,” Schribner explains. “Fireplaces also help elevate a kitchen from just a functional space to a truly customized spot where homeowners can entertain, which is especially important in homes with open-concept floor plans,” Schribner adds. It’s not surprising that Heat & Glo is developing products that work in all these new areas. A product introduction that reflects those expanded placements is Heat & Glo’s MEZZO. “The MEZZO hits a sweet spot in the category. It’s beautiful, discreet, and luxurious, with a black-glass interior and stunning flames—and it’s perfect for people who want a high-end, custom look without the expense that typi-

cally accompanies a custom-built modern fireplace,” Schribner explains. MEZZO units are available at a variety of prices, and with the options of single-sided or see-through models in a variety of sizes, they offer homeowners an easy way to incorporate modern design into their spaces. In response to consumer requests for fireplaces for bathrooms and other small spaces, Heat & Glo is committed to designing more fireplaces such as the REVO, which is specifically designed to make it easier for homeowners to incorporate fireplaces into unusual spaces. Schribner says, “Incorporating a fireplace in a master bedroom or bathroom is a great way to add a touch of sophistication, and it also serves a practical function: Getting out of bed or the shower is more pleasant when you have a warm fire to comfort you.” She adds that freestanding stoves—for example, the Heat & Glo Paloma—are another alternative for creating ambience in unique rooms. “Its slender profile makes it a great fit for smaller spaces, and its sophisticated European styling is a tasteful complement to any room,” she says. Of course, some installations are not only small, but difficult. Those, Schribner says, are where

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PRODUCT INNOVATION Heat & Glo’s power vent technology comes into play. It “opens up a wealth of opportunities to install fireplaces in places previously thought impossible, such as multifamily buildings and tough remodeling projects,” she adds. As for design, don’t mention contemporary and trend in the same sentence around the staff at Heat & Glo. “From our perspective, modern fireplaces are less of a trend and more of a fixture in the gas hearth category: They’re here to stay,” Schribner states. For that reason, Heat & Glo is continuing to develop new products that pair the high quality that consumers expect from Heat & Glo with realistic, streamlined designs. “Modern, clean lines and unique media—such as stones or crushed glass, in place of logs—add a sense of luxury and sophistication to any room,” Schribner says. The finer details are focused upon, too. Heat & Glo’s product innovation extends to the finishes and fronts of its fireplaces and inserts. For example, Schribner points out, the company recently introduced several rustic modern options; they include the Loft Forge front for its MEZZO fireplace, as well as the Chateau Forge front for its 6000 and 8000 series and Escape fireplace insert. “The idea that less is more is also on trend, so we’re incorporating clean-faced fronts for many of our fireplaces and inserts, which reduces the amount of visible

The Heat & Glo MEZZO fireplace

finishing material around the outside of the fireplace to create a more seamless effect,” she says. “We’re also offering more stainless-steel and brushed-nickel front options, giving homeowners additional ways to extend modern design to their fireplaces.” Heat & Glo has added the options of clear or multicolored LED lighting to several of its fireplaces. The company has also incorporated high-end, fade-resistant, reflective black-glass interiors into many models, such as the MEZZO and the LUX; the latter uses sculpted stainless-steel tubes in place of logs, for a truly unique, high-end finish. How does Heat & Glo explain all of this innovation? “We’re very consumer focused, so we conduct

PREMIUM OUTDOOR GRILLS MADE IN THE

USA

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Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

extensive market research,” Schribner says, adding that the company makes full use of that research in developing new products. “We understand consumers better than any other hearth manufacturer does, and we’re committed to ensuring our fireplaces are the best on the market, which means introducing product lines that are both beautiful and functional,” she continues. “We’re also mindful of consumers’ increasing desire to reflect their tastes in every aspect of their homes, so we ensure that all of our products offer options for personalization— and with a variety of front and media styles and colors, consumers can really customize their fireplaces to fit their spaces and personalities.”

Visit us at HPBExpo in Nashville – Booth #1136 indoors and #4018 outdoors – to see our newest innovations. Introducing: • FIRE ON WATER – The first CSA-certified fire on water product, with flames dancing on water for unforgettable impact! Perfect for any outdoor residential or commercial setting. Patent-pending technology.

• THE INTERLINK™ LINEAR BURNER – A new patent-pending, stainless steel fire pit burner extendable from 49" to 121" for greater design flexibility. Our innovation roots lie in our safety components for the hearth industry. In particular, our high quality valve kits have earned an enviable reputation for safety and reliability.

Work with the leader. For 40 years, Hearth Products Controls (HPC) has been leading the way in fireplace and fire pit innovation. It’s a track record that means ongoing new business for you and peace of mind for your customers.

Hearth Products Controls

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CORPORATE PROFILE

REINVENTING A COMPANY Telescope Casual’s corporate transformation will delight retailers and customers. If something’s not broken, there might still be a reason to fix it—especially if it happens to be a smart, innovative company such as Telescope Casual Furniture (Granville, New York). In 2014, the 112–year-old casual-furniture manufacturer began a massive change effort that will alter the way that it makes and delivers its products. Kathy Juckett, CEO, says, “A company must be nimble and flexible to thrive in today’s marketplace.” Telescope is reinventing itself as a more efficient operation with help from Honsha Inc. (Carlsbad, California), a consulting company that teaches the Toyota Production System (TPS) and other elements of the Toyota way. Telescope is undergoing a culture change that will ultimately affect every employee and every aspect of the company’s business. Telescope has been a respected casual-furniture manufacturer since 1903. It came from an era when the whole facility was geared toward mass production, which means high volume and a low variety of products.

by SHARON SANDERS

“We were unbelievably good at it, but it’s time to transition from mass production to mass customization because that’s what our customers want,” Juckett says, adding that people can get mass-production products at big-box retailers. She explains, “People spend money on beautiful homes and don’t want the same furniture that their neighbors have. They want products that are extensions of the inside of their homes and that are customized to their own tastes.” The advantage that a domestic producer has over a Chinese company is the ability to customize; she continues, “One has to capitalize on that fact and make one’s organization nimble enough to be able to handle the variety that it entails.” Telescope had been working on restructuring the company on its own for a number of years, chipping away at things that it felt were getting in the way of its ability to become the kind of mass customizer that it wanted to be. The company realized that to take its operations to the next level, it needed to bring in some experts. It hired Honsha, a consulting group (made up of former Toyota executives) that transforms companies using the TPS/lean methods practiced at Toyota. Under Honsha’s guidance, Telescope began its transformation in July 2014. “If you were to study Toyota, you would find out that the reason it’s been so successful (even in a down economy) is that it has practiced the lean philosophy and continuous

Top: Kathy Juckett Middle: As part of its change efforts, Telescope Casual is examining all of the processes on its production line Bottom: St. Catherine cushion seating in marine-grade polymer, with a 54-inch round fire table

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

The Belle Isle cushion collection

improvement from day one. The operation has minimal waste, and everything done on its production line (and throughout its organization) is deliberate and standardized. That is the company’s culture, and it has never strayed from it,” Juckett says. “That is the kind of company that Telescope strives to become.” She explains, “We are creating a comprehensive plan for our whole business, but it’s not based on a big, mysterious management theory: It is just basic logical thinking.” For example, she says, “A line employee should never pick up a part and move it to the next place unless it’s going to add value; it goes down to that level of detail.” Every task, process, and procedure will be analyzed and then standardized. No matter which employees are doing a particular job, they will know exactly how to do it, as well as what’s expected of them, from a productivity point of view. The new way of operating will give Telescope enormous capabilities, in terms of reliability, when it comes to delivery and the ability to deal with special orders. Juckett explains, “When we are done, the company will be more flexible and equipped for easy fulfillment of the one- and two-item furniture requests that we get from customers. It will be the norm—not the exception, as it is now.” Since July 2014, Telescope and Honsha have examined everything at the company’s facility, including its production line, and have questioned all of its processes. “I’m pretty sure that there are some things that we were doing in 1903 that we are still doing today,” Juckett says. She adds that this doesn’t mean that the company was doing things the wrong way the whole time; it just means that it’s time to do things differently. She is amazed at the waste and hidden costs that have been uncovered so far. One of the first major undertakings was to revamp the company’s metal shop completely. Every single piece of metal that is used in Telescope’s more than 600 frame styles is cut, bent, and shaped on the shop’s machinery. “We created a huge map of our facility, with pieces of paper scaled to each of the machines’ sizes, the lift trucks, and even the people (so we knew how much space was needed between machines). In 10 days, we took the department completely apart and put it back together according to our plan,” Juckett says. The new metal shop is more organized and efficient than it has ever been, she adds. The transformation team will continue work in the manufacturing and supply departments for the

next few months and will eventually make its way to the top of the organization. “The next half of the process will move faster than the first part because the first part also involved training management on how to see and think lean,” Juckett says, adding that this new mindset is one of the most important elements, going forward, if the company is going to

experience a true culture shift. She is encouraged at the tremendous progress that has been made so far—and by the reactions of employees. “They are excited because many things that were frustrating them are being taken care of, which means they can do their jobs more efficiently. Once we fix things and standardize them, we will be ready to practice our new culture of continuous improvement,” she says. Explaining what she wants the company to look like when the transformation is complete, Juckett says, “I want us to have the very best customer service and the most consistent delivery in the industry—which is hard to do, with the number of different products that we have to deliver. I also want us to be so reliable that our dealers don’t have to think about delivery time, but just know they can count on us, no matter what. Last, I want them to know that we are nimble, so we can do what it takes to give them whatever they need.”

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INSIGHT

THE WAY THINGS WERE Customers are drawn to the retro designs of Elmira Stove Works. Elmira Stove Works (Elmira, Ontario) continues to build on its rich experience of expertly blending vintage-style appliances with contemporary features to create unique kitchens and entertainment spaces. Elmira Stove Works’ familiarity with antique appliances dates back three generations: Founder Tom Hendrick’s father was a supplier of parts for wood-burning cookstoves to Mennonite communities in Elmira. In 1975, Hendrick began supplying complete cookstoves, soon extending his business to include a line of gas and electric ranges. Over the years, Elmira Stove Works has continued to expand its product offerings—while delivering the same traditional decor with modern technology, so consumers can have up-to-

date kitchens with the styling of their dreams. With growing demand for each of the company’s product lines, Elmira Stove Works performed exceptionally well in 2014. Tony Dowling, business-development manager, reports that the company saw double-digit growth and increased sales for the year. “We expect that to continue in 2015,” he says. According to Dowling, growth is spread across all categories; the Northstar line, which was released in 2001, features 1950s-style appliances and is getting even stronger. Over the past 13 years, keg refrigerators, ranges, range hoods, splashbacks, microwaves, and dishwasher panels have been added to the line’s six refrigerator models. The retro-style collection is available in nine stunning standard colors: buttercup yellow, bisque, textured black, robin’s egg blue, mint green, quicksilver, candy red, white, and flamingo pink. In addition, customers can order refrigerators in custom colors to match any decor. The BrewMaster draft kit can also be added to model 1950, 1951, and 1952 refrigerators. This popular draft system includes everything needed for simply adding a keg of beer and accessing it conveniently from the refrigerator. Dowling says that the new 11– cubic-foot all-refrigerator unit (released in 2014) has been received very well. As a smaller product, it is a great option where space is limited (in boats, for example). “For a new item, it is going very well,” he says. Northstar’s ranges are available in all-electric, all-gas, or dual-fuel models, either with a full chrome trim package or with painted trim. Since the Antique line

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

by CHERISE FORNO

(featuring 1890s-style appliances) was created, it has been greatly expanded, while growing in popularity. The refrigerators, wall ovens, microwaves, and dishwasher panels in the collection are available in strong, traditional colors reminiscent of the late 1800s: black, white, bisque, liberty blue, cayenne pepper red, a black/white combination, and a black/bisque combination. Decorative metal trims are also available for additional personalization of the vintage-style appliances— to create ideal accent pieces for any home. Traditional nickel, antique brass, or antique copper can be selected for door frames, front legs, front skirts, decorative skirts, or Victorian trivets to tie together a design. Modern features such as nonstick gas or electric griddles to fit any Elmira Stove Works frame take the vintage-style appliances into a contemporary lifestyle. Self-cleaning electric ovens, true convection electric ovens, and gas ovens are available in the collection, as well as cooktops with sealed gas burners, Ultra Temp cast elements, smoothtop electric burners, or a combination of the three. Dual-fuel options are also available, allowing a single unit to have a gas cooktop and an electric oven. Many combinations are available in the Antique line, allowing owners to create truly personalized kitchens with modern appliances that have all the charm of another era. As far as current design trends go, Dowling says, people tend to select bolder colors (such as candy red and black) for recreation and bar areas. For kitchen spaces, he sees customers choosing more pastel colors. The company’s lines remain popular because people are seeking the feel and look of a past era, as well as the modern conveniences to which they are accustomed. “People want the vintage look, but they don’t want to sacrifice performance,” he says. Dowling says that the highly effi-

Top: The Northstar model 1949 refrigerator in candy red, with an optional draftbeer system Bottom: The Antique model 1865-ST sixburner, dual-fuel (gas/electric) range in black, with copper trim

cient wood-burning Fireview stove has also become a stronger product since its 2009 introduction. The stove is available in three models, with optional gas side burners for added usability. The stove has done well because of its clean-burning technology, and it’s an attractive choice as alternative home heating (or as a backup heat source). Elmira Stove Works has received a great response to its current website (www.elmirastoveworks.com), which was introduced in 2013, and Dowling says that it is now being expanded to improve its functionality and to increase the options and information available on the site. As the 40th anniversary of the company’s founding, 2015 is an exciting year for Elmira Stove Works. Dowling says that the year will be filled with events and exciting announcements, including a sweepstakes giveaway of products. For 2015, Dowling says, Elmira Stove Works is focusing on doing a better job of connecting dealers with consumers, and it is continuing to improve the administrative elements of the company. Elmira Stove Works is working to improve not only all of its products, but the entire structure of the company— to deliver the best possible customer service.

NEW! Carlton 39

Kozy Heat Wants to Welcome You Home.

Est. 1976 I Family Owned and Operated 800.253.4904 I www.kozyheat.com Circle Reader Service No. 55

Carlton 42

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Northern Firelights Patio Fireplace

INSIGHT

PROTECTING ASSETS Gold Eagle’s diverse range of cleaning products and protectants will extend the lives of outdoor furniture and fireplaces. by CHERISE FORNO

Since acquiring 303® Products in June 2012, Gold Eagle (Chicago, Illinois) has continued to grow as a company and to meet the expanding needs of its customers in several different markets. The family-owned business brings more than eight decades of experience to the industry and continues to uphold its first mission: to provide products that protect, preserve, and perform. Before incorporating 303 Products into its business, Gold Eagle was already established, with best-selling brands that protect and restore many materials (such as automotive and marine parts). It was logical to include 303 Products, which has a long history of manufacturing products that provide UV protection, maintenance, and superior cleaning of numerous materials found in patio furniture—as well as in automobiles, recreational vehicles, and hearth products. During the past 18 months, Gold Eagle has focused on improving brand awareness for 303 Products, according to Tom Bingham, senior director of marketing. Gold Eagle has enhanced its marketing strategy by changing its product labels to be very clear and specific about each product’s uses. This has helped the company incorporate more products (such as the 303 Products line) while ensuring that customers know more about each product so that they can purchase high-quality products tailored to their individual needs. This attention to detail is essential in building customer awareness, improving customer relations, and creating successful sales/marketing practices. Bingham says that the 303 Products brand has performed well since Gold Eagle acquired the company in 2012. “The most popular product remains 303 Fabric 56

Guard™,” he says. “That product just continues to grow and hit it out of the park.” Bingham says that Fabric Guard’s amazing ability to strengthen and restore water repellency to both synthetic and natural fibers—while also preventing mold and mildew—is an one of the reasons that renowned outdoor-fabric manufacturer Glen Raven, maker of Sunbrella®, has continued to recommend Fabric Guard specifically. In addition to having a superior ability to restore water repellency, Fabric Guard prevents stains and keeps fabrics looking and feeling new. Another popular product, which goes hand in hand with Fabric Guard, is 303 Multi-Surface Cleaner™. This is an important component used to clean fabrics thoroughly to prepare them for retreatment (such as the use of Fabric Guard). Multi-Surface Cleaner aggressively cleans fabrics while being gentle enough for use on almost every surface or material. The cleaner safely removes major stains, making it ideal

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

for use on all-weather rugs/carpets, countertops, sinks, banners, grill covers, patio furniture, and upholstery. Another flagship product, 303 Protectant™, continues to grow in popularity as consumers learn of its ability to provide unparalleled protection from UV rays. Protectant keeps surfaces looking new by preventing fading, cracking, and staining. The product also dries with a matte finish and without leaving behind any oily residue. This waterbased product is recommended for use on a variety of products, including automotive leather, engine parts, vinyl sports gear, and Plexiglas®. In addition to offering cuttingedge cleaning products, Bingham says, the 303 line stands out in the patio industry because of its long experience and because of learning the chemical properties that make the products work so well on everyday materials. Bingham adds that this understanding of the science behind the products has led to recognition from many manufacturers. “Nobody has more OEM rec-

Gold Eagle’s 303 Products cleaners and protectants

ommendations than 303 has,” he says. This reputation is a huge advantage because it shows that experts in the industry back the ability of 303 cleaners to perform exceptionally well. Bingham says that Gold Eagle aims to continue marketing 303 Products to increase brand awareness—because once people learn about the product and research it, they see how respected the line is in the industry. “Everyone trusts 303 because we do what we say we do,” he says. In addition to improving brand awareness, Bingham stresses, the company will continue to uphold its high standards by offering highquality products and making sure that the product line is meeting the needs of the industry (and evolving with its consumers). “The goal is to continue to meet the needs of the marketplace,” he says.

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LAST WORD

MODERN AND MIGHTY Napoleon’s next-generation hearth and grill products are real head turners. by GREG THOMPSON

Along with the elemental appeal of fire comes a desire to harness it in decidedly lovely settings. Napoleon Fireplaces (Barrie, Ontario) is in the forefront of this movement to tame the flame, putting fire into elegant linear presentations with polished, clean surfaces. It’s a long way from the rustic look of old, and it represents a growing niche among people who want something truly different. Designers at Napoleon were happy to satisfy this demand with gas fireplaces that performed well in 2014, as they have for the past decade. According to Stephen Schroeter, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Napoleon, those highplace series of Slimline and Azure. The Slimline has a cool glass touchscreen, allowing users to control function fully—right on the unit, not just using the remote. The Azure line has multicolor LED technology, allowing people to change the setting manually to get the perfect color that suits the decor.”

end linear hearths (with clean-faced designs) will continue to be manufactured in the company’s factories in Canada and the United States. These best sellers appeal to customers of all ages, he says, but younger buyers might take particular notice. Schroeter (son of the company’s founder, Wolfgang Schroeter) says, “My generation wants something different. Personally, I would buy a linear-style fireplace. The contemporary/modern look—linear, clean faced, with clean lines, and with large flames—continues to be very popular.” Napoleon’s Ascent Multi-View 40 direct-vent gas fireplace is one example 58

of a modern take on the multiple-view fireplace. Introduced just last summer, the Ascent fireplace acts as a focal point between two rooms, and consumers get to choose from several firebox configurations and decorative options. Schroeter points out that the sleek design is offered in two different models, as a see-through unit or as a three-sided peninsula; it features a log burner, a linear glass burner, or a designer fire cradle with topaz-glass embers. Of the eye-catching design, Schroeter says, “Our research/development team works a few years ahead of the curve. We’ve also had success with our new electric-fire-

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

AN EXCLUSIVE GRILL LINE What goes into making a best-selling grill line? For specialty dealers hoping to compete with big-box stores, Schroeter believes that a feature-laden grill that tilts toward the high end is the best bet; it’s even better if that feature-laden line can’t be found in the big-box stores. The Napoleon Prestige series and Prestige Pro series have slid easily into this market space, with both units hitting best-seller status for the company. “All models in this series have been on rapid-growth trajectories,” Schroeter explains. “Specialty dealers are looking for an exclusive grill line that has many features of other grill

brands found at big-box stores, but is exclusively sold by specialty dealers.” Napoleon’s grills—made in Canada and the United States—have the blend of high quality and attractive prices needed to provides that final edge that customers appreciate. An extensive grill-accessory lineup complements the series and cements the brand for a customer base that is increasingly concerned with taste. Whether they are called barbecue aficionados or foodies, these customers respond to Napoleon products such as maple and cedar planks that imbue subtle flavors into a variety of foods. “We also have all the chips for smoking,” Schroeter says. “One of the new ones is the Whiskey Oak chip, for a bold whiskey flavor. Also new is a tomato and pepper roasting rack—

Top: Napoleon’s LHD62 linear fireplace Bottom: Napoleon’s TravelQ 285 portable gas grill

Left and right: Napoleon’s Prestige Pro 665 grill, with infrared rear and side burners

plus almost anything you can think of for grilling—all with the same packaging theme that jumps out at consumers.” A rebound in the U.S. economy has fueled positive 2014 sales, and Schroeter is hopeful that the momentum will continue in 2015. “On the grill side, even though the weather wasn’t fantastic in 2014, sales were strong throughout North America,” Schroeter says. “The fireplace industry is seeing an explosive season, as well, that started early and has stayed strong throughout; all indicators for the next two to three years are that the numbers will continue to grow.”

The outlook is positive, but Napoleon’s executives don’t leave anything to chance, using their research/development resources to explore new possibilities for the grill sector. In its quest for a top-notch portable grill, for example, the company tested various competitors’ models, finding that they all performed poorly in windy conditions. Schroeter says, “That’s when we developed our new TravelQ series, with innovative windscreen technology, automatic ignition, and a two-burner system with a crossignite system that makes it outper-

form competitors.” Optimistic by nature, Schroeter still laments that the industry must keep an eye on government policy. Executives at Napoleon actively help and fund the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association’s government-affairs committee to watch over their interests, and this inevitably helps everyone. “The government is trying to regulate things such as standing pilots,” Schroeter says. “It wants to ban them because it feels they are a waste of energy . . . but the standing pilot has a lot of benefits for the function of the fireplace, so we’ll be keeping an eye on it in

the United States and Canada.” Since its humble beginnings in the mid1970s, Napoleon has grown to include more than 1,200 associates (with 800 located in the Barrie area and 250 in the United States). Napoleon occupies more than 1.4 million square feet of manufacturing and warehouse space, primarily in Canada and the United States—with additional space in Europe and China. Last year, the family-owned Napoleon was recognized (with a prestigious award) as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, an annual distinction sponsored by CIBC World Markets, Deloitte, National Post, Queen’s School of Business, and MacKay CEO Forums.

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WHAT’S NEW

6 HOT PRODUCTS TO SELL NOW Bromic Heating | www.bromicheating.com |

(800) 301-1293

The award-winning Tungsten Smart-Heat™ portable gas radiant heater is the synthesis of cutting-edge design, world-first engineering, and practical functionality. The Tungsten Smart-Heat portable takes relocatable gas heating to the next level with its unparalleled efficiency and effectiveness.

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Kuma Stoves | www.kumastoves.com |

(888) 714-5294

The Platinum SE pellet grill is the next generation of wood-fired cooking. Using the unit’s quick-grilling zone, you can instantly activate direct-flame grilling. The convenient pellet-change system allows you to change pellet flavors in seconds, and the easy-to-use digital control includes an integrated meat probe to cook food to the perfect internal temperature. Made in the United States and built to last, with 304 stainless steel and double-wall construction, the Platinum SE is an heirloomquality grill.

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Country Lane Gazebos | www.gazebo.com |

(717) 351-9250

For those who appreciate old-world craftsmanship and construction, the Alpine pavilion is the choice to make. It is sure to inspire admiration when entertaining friends and family. Always a hub of activity, a pavilion is at the center of outdoor entertaining. Whether dodging the sun, waiting out a summer shower, or sitting down for a meal, people will appreciate your pavilion. Circle Reader Service No. 92

Looft Industries | www.looftlighter.com |

(855) 90-LOOFT

The Looftlighter is highly successful all over the world—and especially in the United States, where sales are really booming. The Looftlighter lights your charcoal, briquettes, and wood in no time, without lighter fluid or other hazardous chemicals or gas. The Looftlighter is the fastest way to light a barbecue or hearth; it only takes 60 seconds. Using no direct flame makes it one of the safest fire starters.

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Coyote Outdoor Living | www.coyoteoutdoor.com |

(855) 520-1559

This 36-inch S-series grill, the CSL36, is equipped with three 11-gauge stainless-steel Coyote iBurners plus one infrared rear burner and one RapidSear burner (for crisp and juicy steaks). The grill also features amber backlit knobs for nighttime grilling, 875 square inches of cooking area, and an output of up to 95,000 Btu. Circle Reader Service No. 94

NorthCape | www.northcapeoutdoor.com |

(708) 563-2890

New for 2015, NorthCape’s Lakeside collection features versatile modular seating in a rich, 12-millimeter cappuccino HDPE resin finish that’s handwoven over a sturdy, commercial-grade aluminum frame. Plush cushioning in your choice of premium outdoor fabric combines with a coordinating fire table to round out this stunning seating group. When you’re looking for style, comfort, and value, take a fresh look at NorthCape.

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Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

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PRODUCT PROFILES Sausalito Collection Alfresco Home dives into the contemporary-furniture world with the striking dining and deep seating of the Sausalito collection. Sausalito’s highlights include functional side shelves and stylish mixed media, including extruded aluminum and Forest Stewardship Council teak with Sunbrella® fabrics and sling materials. Contemporary design, exquisite comfort, and unrivaled construction: Nothing else says Alfresco Home fresh like the modern Sausalito. Contact: (610) 705-8808 or www.alfrescohome.com. Circle Reader Service No. 96

Carmel Coffee Table

It is often said that the Pacific Coast Highway surrounding Carmel, California, is a state of mind. California Outdoor Concepts’ vision of the Carmel state of mind now provides new styles for your backyard pleasure. The Carmel coffee table offers the same stylish sophistication as its round namesake. Long and lean in chat height, the Carmel coffee table is reminiscent of the meticulously manicured gardens of Carmel’s Carmelite Monastery. With strong legs, smooth sides, and an explosion of fire at the glass-filled rectangular burner, it will impress and endure. It’s available in lustrous tones of black or brown plus four granite options and 11 colorful glass decisions—and you are in charge of them all. Contact: (877) 274-6773 or www.californiaoutdoorconcepts.com. Circle Reader Service No. 97

XXLarge EGG

The biggest Green Egg of them all, the unrivaled XXLarge EGG can easily handle meals for family reunions or cookouts with large groups—and is more than large enough to satisfy restaurant and catering needs. You’ll need a crowd to tackle all of the ribs, steaks, and burgers this EGG can handle—all at once. You can even roast a suckling pig. Explore all the culinary possibilities with the new XXL. Contact: (770) 938-9394 or www.biggreenegg.com. Circle Reader Service No. 98

Life Is Better Lived on the EDGE

Elegance, innovation, and technology blend seamlessly in this fully assembled two-burner grill, which connects via Wi-Fi to your mobile device. The Saber® DADO app sends precise, real-time data on temperatures, doneness, and fuel levels directly to your mobile device. Never run out of fuel again. Contact your Saber sales representative and preorder the EDGE now. It will be available on May 1, 2015. Contact: (888) 947-2237 or www.sabergrills.com. Circle Reader Service No. 99

Davenport Sling Dining

Agio continues to lead the industry with new takes on classics that perform for retailers, year after year. Elegant and clean lines abound with the Davenport sling dining group, which has a design that features a lovely, rust-free rectangular table with a slatted top. The look is pure simplicity and is sure to be a hot seller on your showroom floor. To add Davenport or any other new, trendsetting Agio collections to your product mix, visit agio-usa.com today. Contact: (888) 997-7623 or www.agio.com. Circle Reader Service No. 100

Bull Outdoor Bull Outdoor Products will be upgrading its high-quality line of outdoor-kitchen components this year. This line already features 304 stainless-steel double-lined doors and fully encased drawer systems. The company will be outfitting all of its drawers with the new Super Glide soft-closing system, as well as adding paper-towel racks to the backs of all of the doors. These changes are designed to improve the customer experience and build on the strength of what the company calls the world’s most complete component offering. Contact: (800) 521-2855 or www.bullbbq.com. Circle Reader Service No. 101

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PRODUCT PROFILES Crossroads Coatings Self–cross-linking Enamel

Crossroads Coatings’ self–cross-linking, high-temperature–resistant enamel uses technology that allows the coating to cross-link rapidly at low oven temperatures and reduced dwell times. This technology also enhances key properties such as adhesion and scratch/mar resistance. Contact: (704) 873-2244 or www.crossroadscoatings.com. Circle Reader Service No. 102

Custom Burner

American Fireglass takes great pride in listening to its customers’ needs. Though the company has a very complete line of burner products, it is often asked for sizes, shapes, and specifications outside the standard product-line offering. It now offers custom burner development. The process begins with the customer’s specifications; from there, the burner is designed using computer-aided design programs. Once the customer has approved the design and price, the custom burner is fabricated, with high quality and a short lead time in mind. Contact: (888) 264-1017 or www.AmericanFireGlass.com. Circle Reader Service No. 103

Kingston Deep Seating

With a look that’s breezy and light, Agio’s Kingston deep seating collection is sure to be a big hit with consumers. Durable, rust-free aluminum frames are accented by a unique, new all-weather–wicker weave and a hand-applied finish. The Kingston collection is a perfect fit for any retailer’s floor. To discover the profitability of adding Kingston or any of Agio’s trendsetting collections to your outdoor offering, contact the company. Contact: (888) 997-7623 or www.agio.com. Circle Reader Service No. 104

Princess Insert by Blaze King

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Blaze King’s Princess insert is the most efficient wood insert on the market today. With a deep firebox, frequent emptying of ashes is a thing of the past. An installer-friendly design includes a 45–degree-angle draft hood, permitting easy liner connections. Blowers are standard, and two shroud sizes are available for different fireplace openings. With a 2.54–cubic-foot firebox, emissions of a mere 2 grams per hour, and proven catalytic-combustion design, the Princess insert has a 10-year 100% warranty on the combustor. Efficiency levels are 80% (higher heating value) and 86% (lower heating value). Contact: (509) 522-2730 or www.blazeking.com. Circle Reader Service No. 105

Duraflame illuma Bio-ethanol Fireplace Log Sets

Duraflame® illuma® fireplace log sets safely burn renewable liquid bio-ethanol, vented or vent free. The log sets feature a patent-pending burner system that uses unique no-pour, no-spill illuma-fuel® canisters. The fuel canister can be safely removed and replaced while the fire is burning. The fireplace log sets include an electronic igniter, a low-fuel indicator, and a built-in device to adjust or extinguish the flames. The products is a 2013 Vesta Award winner. Visit HPBExpo booth 3226. Contact: (866) 552-3015, sales@duraflame.com, or www.duraflame.com/illuma.

Charcoal Companion Flame Friendly Ceramic Grilltop Pan Pans in the Flame Friendly™ series conduct high, evenly distributed heat, but are lightweight and easy to clean (unlike cast iron). Eco-friendly and thermal-shock resistant, this grilling pan is perfect for cooking smaller cuts of food without losing them through your grate. Contact: (800) 521-0505, sales@companion-group.com, or www.companion-group.com. Circle Reader Service No. 109

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Coyote CCX2-FS 28-inch C-series Grill (Grill in a Box) At 28 inches, Coyote’s CCX2-FS was made for small spaces and urban living. Featuring interior hood lights and improved heat-control grids, this 304-grade stainless-steel grill comes equipped with two high-performance Coyote iBurners, 640 square inches of cooking area, and output levels of up to 40,000 Btu. Contact: (855) 520-1559 or www.coyoteoutdoor.com. Circle Reader Service No. 107

Outdoor Gas Firepans by Golden Blount Golden Blount (Addison, Texas) is now offering a complete line of linear and rectangular outdoor gas firepans. They are manufactured of 16-gauge powder-coated steel, with 14-gauge stainless-steel burners. Review the extremely competitive prices of these products. Contact: (800) 833-1139 or www.goldenblountinc.com. Circle Reader Service No. 108

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PRODUCT PROFILES Introducing Saber’s EZ Temp Digital Meat Thermometer

Remove the guesswork from grilling. In only five seconds, the Saber® EZ Temp thermometer measures the doneness level of any meat. The one-piece design makes the thermometer simple to use and easy to clean. The auto-off feature shuts down the thermometer after six minutes of no use, extending battery life. EZ Temp comes preprogrammed with seven meat-doneness levels and a user-defined temperature alarm. Contact: (888) 947-2237 or www.sabergrills.com. Circle Reader Service No. 110

Country Lane’s Artisan Pergola

Made for both entertaining and quiet reflection, the handcrafted Artisan pergola is a fitting reward for the dedicated, hard-working person. These show-stopping Artisan pergolas will enhance your home and landscape, resembling a work of fine art. Pergolas aren’t just for those seeking shade; they are also for those desiring character and style. Contact: (717) 351-9250 or www.Gazebo.com.

Carmel

Carmel, California, has a population primarily devoted to the aesthetic arts and is considered by many to be a cultural Mecca. California Outdoor Concepts designed the Carmel in chat height, with well-tailored legs on a clean aluminum torso, to echo that scheme. The Carmel will be at home in stylish and sophisticated outdoor venues. Shown in lustrous tones of black or brown and crowned with your choice of four granite finishes and 11 glass options, the Carmel will truly offer that aesthetic look where soft sand meets cypress-covered cliffs. Pick the Carmel to garnish your backyard. It will be the perfect complement to your backyard cocktail. Contact: (877) 274-6773 or www.californiaoutdoorconcepts.com. Circle Reader Service No. 113

DP42: 42-inch Dry Pantry The DCS dry pantry offers a consistent, professional design with ultrapremium indoor features that help create a truly cohesive and functional kitchen. It’s an ideal place to store all of your outdoor essentials, dry goods, cookware, counter finishes, and anything kept in your indoor pantry. Contact: (888) 936-7872 or www.dcsappliances.com.

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Charcoal Companion Fire Up! Charcoalstarter Wand

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Duraflame illuma Bioethanol Indoor/Outdoor Tabletop Fireplace

Using the Fire Up!™ charcoal-starter wand from Charcoal Companion® is a quick way to ignite your charcoal. There’s no need for toxic lighter fluid; two settings take your charcoal from cold to glowing hot in minutes. The heat setting ignites the charcoal, while the blow setting distributes the flames. Contact: (800) 521-0505, sales@companion-group.com, or www.companion-group.com.

The Duraflame® illuma® tabletop fireplace safely burns renewable liquid bio-ethanol for a smoke-free outdoor or indoor fire, unvented. The patent-pending burner system uses unique no-pour, no-spill illuma-fuel® canisters. The fuel canister can be safely removed and replaced while the fire is burning. The contemporary 22-inch fireplace includes an electronic igniter, a low-fuel indicator, and a knob to adjust the flames or extinguish the fire. Visit HPBExpo booth 3226. Contact: (866) 552-3015, sales@duraflame.com, or www.duraflame.com/illuma.

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Fervor Icon 655 Alfresco Home is proud to introduce Fervor™ to its Outdoor Gourmet lineup. Fervor captures the best of the Australian outdoor lifestyle in its range of high-quality barbecues emphasizing healthy and easy grilling. Fervor grills feature GrillSmart™ technology for healthy, simple, and clean grilling. GrillSmart is an oil-management system featuring matte-enameled, cast-iron grill grates that channel fats and oils away from the food while you barbecue. Contact: (610) 705-8808, www.grillsmart.net, or www.alfrescohome.com. Circle Reader Service No. 116

Crossroads Coatings Aqua-Temp

Crossroads Coatings’ Aqua-Temp technology, a water-based, 1,200-degree stove paint, has been proven to aid manufacturers in decreasing operating costs associated with solvent-based paints. Aqua-Temp is an environmentally friendly product that will reduce both the company’s environmental impact and employee health hazards. Contact: (704) 873-2244 or www.crossroadscoatings.com. Circle Reader Service No. 118

Jewel Jar

Big Green Egg Solid Teak Cutting Board

A beautiful addition to any kitchen, this solid teak chopping board with a carved drip channel is perfect for everything from carving roasts and poultry to chopping vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Each board is a unique work of art, artisan crafted from Forest Stewardship Council–certified tropical hardwood exclusively for Big Green Egg. Contact: (770) 938-9394 or www.biggreenegg.com.

True quality is transparent. American Fireglass introduces the long-awaited, retail-friendly, 10-pound Jewel Jar packaging. This new packaging option offers an attractive, eye-catching appearance, giving customers the ability to see the premium-quality fireglass right from the retail shelf. It is not only attractive, but functional, too. The new Jewel Jar includes a carrying handle that is built right into the lid. Each jar includes UPC barcodes, for simple inventory and register scanning. There has never been a better time to stock American Fireglass in your store for your customers. Contact: (888) 264-1017 or www.AmericanFireGlass.com.

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SIMPLY THE BEST For over 50 years Modern Home Products has been making the best cooking, most reliable and longest lasting gas grills, right here in America. With our MHP, ProFire and Phoenix grills lines we have the best gas grill in every category while our Bravo grill is one of the most reasonably priced, quality-built Kamado style charcoal grills in the market. MHP also produces a complete line of aftermarket replacement grill parts as well as gas lamps and torches.

Come see us at the HPBA EXPO March 5-7, 2015 BOOTH #2054

To learn more, visit www.mhpgrills.com or call 888.647.4745.

888.647.4745 | www.mhpgrills.com 150 South Ram Road • Antioch, IL 60002

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PRODUCT PROFILES

St. Bernardus

St. Bernardus is MLW Stone’s latest and most cost-effective natural-stone fireplace facing. Available in three standard sizes, St. Bernardus is a sound and durable honed-limestone fireplace surround that is consistent in color from piece to piece and set to set. Its warm, clean, and neutral color lends itself well to any traditional or contemporary

decor. For samples, email orders@mlwalker.com. Contact: (800) 477-7665 or www.mlwstone.com. Circle Reader Service No. 120

Commercial-style Griddle by Bull Outdoor

Bull Outdoor Products has developed a 24-inch, three-burner, low-maintenance, chromium-plated, commercial-style griddle for use in everyone’s outdoor dream kitchen. Certifications are complete, and the product should arrive prior to March 1, 2015. This is just another product that adds to Bull’s unmatched product selection. Bull sells over 100 grills, components, and carts, as well as over 50 outdoor-kitchen and fire-feature designs. Contact: (800) 521-2855 or www.bullbbq.com. Circle Reader Service No. 121

Pawleys Island.

It’s a place where relaxation isn’t just an idea, it’s a whole way of life.

The Pawleys Life For over 125 years the standard bearer for handcrafted hammocks, Pawleys Island® is also now the brand for fully outfitting your outdoor living space. Our Durawood™ poly-lumber furniture features marine grade rust proof fittings and a lifetime residential warranty. Bring a little of the Pawleys Life home today. 800.334.1078 · TheHammockSource.com · Contact us for our current catalog HIGH POINT SHOWPLACE BOOTH #1525

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H Series Vent Free From European Home This 6-foot, linear, vent-free, natural-gas fireplace offers sleek style and clean lines. With clean edges and a louverless design, this open-fronted fireplace adds a stunning focal point to any room and fits the bill when venting is not an option. It’s also available in 42- and 60-inch sizes and in three-sided bay-style, corner, and see-through models. The European Home H series vent-free fireplace supports natural gas only. Contact: (781) 324-8383, info@europeanhome.com, or www.europeanhome.com. Circle Reader Service No. 122

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PRODUCT PROFILES Platinum Smart-Heat Gas Sporting an innovative design with a brushed–stainless-steel finish, Platinum Smart-Heat™ gas represents a class above, in the world of outdoor heating. The tinted-ceramic fascia assists in projecting a comfortable heat while ensuring consistent output in winds of up to 11 mph. The gas heater of the future has arrived. Contact: (800) 301-1293 or www.bromicheating.com.

Delta Heat Outdoor-kitchen Products

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Entertain your guests with a professionally designed and culinary-created beverage chiller by DCS. The 25-inch beverage chiller is a fully insulated compartment that can hold up to 17 gallons of ice to chill your refreshments. Its deep depth can comfortably hold sitting longneck-bottled beverages and wine bottles. It’s a perfect beverage solution for your outdoor kitchen. Contact: (888) 936-7872 or www.dcsappliances.com.

The grill is the cornerstone of any outdoor kitchen, but it is the complementary products that bring it to life. Delta Heat has thought through your customers’ cooking, storage, and entertaining needs. The company’s offering is complete, giving customers the products that they need to create a space that is unique to them: a space that suits their personal cooking and entertaining styles. The company invites you to explore the complete Delta Heat offering. Contact (800) 422-0091 or www.DeltaHeat.com.

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BC25: 25-inch Beverage Chiller

The FIREVIEW

Wood Cookstove The Fireview is a high-efficiency, airtight, wood-burning cookstove that is perfect for home, cottage or camp. It serves as a high-output room heater, a cooking appliance and, with an optional water jacket, a source of hot water. For even more cooking versatility add the optional gas side burners. Models also available in all-gas, all-electric or dual fuel.

Let us build one for you.

ElmiraStoveWorks.com 1-800-295-8498 2 ! . ' % 3 ȩ s ȩ 7 ! , , ȩ / 6 % . 3 ȩ s ȩ 2 % & 2 ) ' % 2 !4 / 2 3 ȩ s ȩ - ) # 2 / 7 ! 6 % 3 ȩ s ȩ $ ) 3 ( 7 ! 3 ( % 2 3

Apex-CBT Catalytic Indoor Furnace The Apex-CBT is a revolution in central heating and is made by the experts in catalytic technology. Tested using the CSA-B415.1 method, the Apex-CBT produces a mere 3.3 grams per hour of emissions and is rated for efficiency levels of 87.2% (higher heating value) and 90.7% (lower heating value). The large, 5.7–cubic-foot firebox takes logs of up to 26 inches in length and can be used as an add-on furnace for an existing central-heating system—or as a stand-alone furnace, when used with the company’s VB1000 blower. Contact: (509) 522-2730 or www.blazeking.com. Circle Reader Service No. 126

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PRODUCT PROFILES Delta Heat Outdoor Refrigerator The Delta Heat 20-inch refrigerator is UL approved for outdoor use and offers exceptional performance and reliability. It features a stainless-steel exterior, a locking door, and front venting (for undercounter installation). A spacious 4.1–cubic-foot interior, three adjustable wire shelves, and a drink-can holder in the door provide convenient storage. The door is reversible for left- or right-hinged applications. The unit’s retail price is $999. Contact: (800) 422-0091 or www.DeltaHeat.com. Circle Reader Service No. 127

HPC Interlink Linear Series

Northstar Retro Cool

Bigger is better: The new model 1958 French-door fridges from Elmira Stove Works have a 24.8–cubic-foot capacity. They’re retro outside, with 21st-century features inside. They have ice makers and filtered-water dispensers and are Energy Star compliant. They are also available in cabinet depth. Contact: (800) 295-8498 or www.ElmiraStoveWorks.com. Circle Reader Service No. 128

You spoke. HPC listened. Its new patent-pending, stainless-steel Interlink linear burner is CSA certified from 25 inches up through 121 inches in length, offering great design flexibility. Its features include 1.5-inch sidewalls for better media retention; an innovative raised-hub design to shed water; safety, with CSA certification through all flame-control technologies; match-lit, push-button spark/flame sensing; and remote electronic ignition/flame sensing. It’s just what you (and your customers) wanted. Contact: (877) 433-7001 or hpcfire.com. Circle Reader Service No. 130

American Hearth Contemporary Portrait Fireplace With its clean, vertical lines, the American Hearth contemporary portrait fireplace adds a striking design element to modern home decor. The vertical motif carries through to the interior, where multiple folds in the porcelain liner add to the illusion of height. The rich black porcelain reflects the fire to create depth and enhance visual interest from any position in the room. The clean-faced design allows tile or stonework to be brought to the edge of the window frame. Decorative fronts, available in four styles, tailor the fireplace to the decor while providing 2015-compliant barrier protection—or choose the simple black barrier screen to maintain a clean-faced fireplace. The dual-burner system resides in an earthenware bowl filled with crushed glass. Choose a black or white bowl and fill it with one or more colors of crushed glass. Contact: (800) 851-3153 or www.americanhearth.com.

Grand Charred Stack (Seasoned) by Golden Blount This incredibly massive, detailed vent-free log set is available in fresh-cut or the latest seasoned coloring. Available in 24- and 30-inch widths and in 14- and 16.5-inch depths, these beautiful sets can be ordered with RR remote-ready valves or with four-step valves, complete with remotes. Smaller orders can now be shipped by FedEx, with the company’s foam/pack packaging system. Contact: (800) 833-1139 or www.goldenblountinc.com. Circle Reader Service No. 131

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Exterus Outdoor Kitchens by Forshaw Forshaw’s beautiful, ready-to-finish outdoor firepits and islands simplify the planning and construction of outdoor kitchens. They are available in stock and custom sizes. Create your own layout with the company’s design process. It offers the complete package, including the stone veneer and granite tops. Contact: (800) FORSHAW or www.forshaws.com. Circle Reader Service No. 132

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PRODUCT PROFILES Luxury Clean-face Fireplace

Pyroceram III Clear Glass Ceramic You can trust Pyroceram® III from EuroKera for the very best in high-temperature performance. Made from a special composition of clear glass ceramic, Pyroceram III withstands even the highest heat conditions—up to 1,300 degrees (700 degrees Celsius)—due to its low coefficient of expansion. Pyroceram III creates a tranquil, warm atmosphere in front of your fireplace or stove, thanks to its excellent transmission of visible light and its light-amber tint. Contact: (864) 963-8082 or www.eurokera.com/pyro. Circle Reader Service No. 133

Fireview Cookstove

Cook dinner. Heat the house. Enjoy the fire. The high-efficiency Fireview wood-burning cookstove from Elmira Stove Works has a 60,000-Btu output; a large, 3–cubic-foot oven; and optional side gas burners. It’s the latest advance in the way things used to be. Contact: (800) 295-8498 or www.ElmiraStoveWorks.com. Circle Reader Service No. 134

White Mountain Hearth continues to build on its good-better-best fireplace lineup with the introduction of a luxury version of its popular Tahoe clean-faced fireplaces. Luxury models—available in 36- and 42-inch sizes—get a larger 10-piece log set atop a completely new burner with an extended ember bed. Interior accessories include ceramic-fiber liners in rustic brick, old-world stone, or black porcelain, plus hammered-metal andirons. Other options include overhead lighting and an automatic blower. Designed to comply with 2015 safety requirements, the fireplace’s large ceramic-glass window is recessed slightly, so the face remains flush with the surrounding walls, even with the screen barrier in place. Customers must purchase the basic black screen or one of two decorative fronts (with screens). Millivolt or intermittent-pilot models are available in LP or natural-gas versions. Contact: (800) 851-3153 or www.whitemountainhearth.com. Circle Reader Service No. 136

Charleston Glow Vent Free Charleston Glow from Hargrove is the newest addition to the company’s growing line of vent-free gas logs. This log set combines a beautiful glow on the front logs, embers, and a large body of flame to achieve an attractive look. Charleston Glow is available in 22- and 26-inch sizes for natural gas or LP and is offered with manual, millivolt, or variable-flame options. Contact: (800) 725-4166 or www.hargrovegaslogs.com. Circle Reader Service No. 137

Stone Mantels by Forshaw

Glen Raven/ Sunbrella

Forshaw offers the widest selection of beautifully crafted stone mantels at the best prices in the industry. The Arched Sebastion creates a beautiful stone look, making the ordinary extraordinary. It dramatically improves the appearance of any fireplace. An optional pedestal base supplies additional decorative flair. Contact: (800) FORSHAW or www.forshaws.com.

Already known for its water resistance, Sunbrella® fabric is now offered as Sunbrella Rain, a 100% waterproof version of the legendary upholstery fabric. The fabric features a back coating that is completely waterproof when cushions are constructed according to preset guidelines, preventing water from getting inside the cushion. This unique fabric offers a quick-dry solution that allows people to continue lounging immediately, once the rain has stopped. Contact: (336) 221-2211 or www.sunbrella.com.

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PRODUCT PROFILES 360 by Element4

Reflections by EuroKera To enhance the effect of the fire’s flame, Reflections™ opaque, reflective glass ceramic can be used on the back wall of the stove to capture and make visible the entire dimension of the fire. Highly reflective black glass ceramic is available, as are white and cream, for a more subtle look. Do you want to keep the brick effect? These products can also be printed with a customer-specified brick pattern or a preexisting design in the colors shown here. Contact: (864) 963-8082 or www.eurokera.com/pyro.

The 360 is a stunning, semiframeless, four-sided fireplace produced by Element4 BV, an award-winning Dutch fireplace manufacturer, and imported and distributed by European Home for installations in North America. With the 360’s 360-degree viewing area, the fire is seen from all sides. This unique design provides architects with a custom-looking fireplace—but without the cost of a custom design. This fireplace is priced at $10,700 and is sold through European Home hearth dealers. Although you will find a wide range of different gas fires in the Element4 collection, they all have one thing in common: their well-thought-out simplicity, because the company believes that simplicity is the key. Contact: (781) 324-8383, info@europeanhome.com, or www.europeanhome.com.

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Looftlighter

The Looftlighter is highly successful all over the world, and especially in the United States, where sales are really booming. The Looftlighter lights your charcoal, briquettes, and wood in no time, without lighter fluid or other hazardous chemicals or gas. Using the Looftlighter is the fastest way to light a barbecue or hearth; it only takes 60 seconds. Having no direct flame makes it one of the safest fire starters. Contact: (855) 90-LOOFT or www.looftlighter.com. Circle Reader Service No. 141

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senotherm Classic

The leading high-temperature coating in Europe, with resistance of up to 1,200 degrees (600 degrees Celsius), is now available in the United States. senothermÂŽ Classic is available in a wide variety of colors and effects, including colorful shades and metallics, as well as being available (in aerosol form) as touch-up paint. High-solid versions increase coverage, reduce paint use, and reduce solvent emissions. Contact: (404) 219-2794, (404) 994-2292, info@senotherm.us, or www.senotherm.us. Circle Reader Service No. 142

Wine Barrel Firepit

This realistic Wine Barrel firepit will enhance any yard. Made from a unique blend of cements and resins, this product will last for many years, providing ambience and beauty. Be sure to select the media you want to use to finish your firepit. Choose from lava rock, Arctic Flame glass, and logs to enhance the beauty of the product. Contact: (360) 314-2012 or www.hearthdistribution.com. Circle Reader Service No. 143

Infratech Comfort Heaters

Whether for work or recreation, Infratech comfort heaters turn cold indoor and outdoor areas into comfortable, inviting spaces. The W-series heater incorporates a specially designed electric quartz heating element that produces safe infrared radiant energy. Radiant energy is only absorbed by solid objects and is not wasted heating the air. These heaters are suitable for ceiling-, wall-, or flush-mount installations, with minimal clearance required. Solid-state and analog controls are also available for intensity adjustment. Contact: (800) 421-9455 or www.infratech-usa.com. Circle Reader Service No. 144

Scorpio Direct-vent Gas Fireplaces The superbly designed Scorpioâ&#x201E;˘ series is the embodiment of traditional style and performance. Outfitted with an array of standard features, including high-efficiency ceramic glass and a heat-circulating blower, these fireplaces make a room both warm and inviting. Available in three sizes, the Scorpio series provides true design versatility. Contact: (800) 655-2008 or www.Astria.US.com. Circle Reader Service No. 145

San Marino The sophisticated San Marino collection has been expanded to include sling, padded sling, and the extremely popular woven seating options. A matching high-back dining chair, high-back swivel rocker, high-back swivel rocking lounge chair, swivel barstool, swivel balcony stool, ottoman, and chaise round out this collection. Contact: (866) 964-4468 or www.gensuncasual.com. Circle Reader Service No. 146

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PRODUCT PROFILES Scorpio CD Directvent Gas Fireplaces The Scorpio™ CD series packages heating performance into a sleek and contemporary design that elevates the style of your room. This masterfully designed fireplace is fashioned with elegant standard features and high performance ratings. Available in three sizes, the Scorpio CD series provides enough versatility to suit any room. Contact: (800) 655-2008 or www.Astria.US.com. Circle Reader Service No. 147

Nova Outdoor

The Nova indoor/outdoor electric fireplace follows a long lineage of industry-changing and award-winning electric fireplaces. This is the first outdoor-rated electric fireplace on the market. The fully enclosed body is built and designed to accommodate any environmental occurrence, such as heat, rain, and other coastal factors. The Nova has a 120/240-volt direct-wired option, with an optional plug-in heater of 1,500/3,000 watts. The Nova creates a perfect ambience for any moonlit setting. Contact: (877) 246-9353 or www.modernflames.com.

Kozy Heat’s Carlton 39 The Carlton is a definitive choice when it comes to picking a gas fireplace that combines realism and flexibility. The remote system allows you to control flame appearance, heat output, fan speed, and ember accent lighting. Contact: (800) 253-4904 or www.kozyheat.com.

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American Fyre Designs Artisan Edition Firefalls

American Fyre Designs Artisan edition firefalls combine the charm of a fire with the allure of running water, adding elegance to any outdoor room. Crafted in the United States, the firefalls come in two sizes and are embellished with hand-laid finishes (including mirrored glass, colored glass, and colored stones) showcased by multicolored LED lights. American Fyre Designs offers a complete line of fire features, including fire tables, fire urns, and firewalls. Contact: (800) 332-3973 or www.americanfyredesigns.com.

Expanded Gas Firepit Collections

Gensun Casual Living has expanded its firepit offerings to 29 different configurations by adding dining and balcony heights (along with a new, larger 52x72-inch size) to its popular line of firepits. Four unique top designs—Florence, Grand Terrace, Madrid II, and Paradise—will coordinate with all of the company’s collections, making the outdoor room even more inviting. Contact: (866) 964-4468 or www.gensuncasual.com. Circle Reader Service No. 151

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Neo 2.5 Wood-burning Fireplace Insert by Pacific Energy Neo inserts combine Pacific Energy’s legendary performance with a sleek, modern profile. Available in two firebox sizes, the Neo 1.6 and Neo 2.5 feature the company’s unique, high-capacity stainless-steel baffle; a floating firebox system; extended-burn technology; and clean airwash technology. Contact: (888) 223-0088, sales@pacificenergy.net, or www.pacificenergy.net. Circle Reader Service No. 152

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PRODUCT PROFILES Sunbrella Terry Sunbrella® terry is a luxurious, knitted upholstery fabric that combines the ultimate in texture, stretch, and performance. The fabric is ideal for a variety of applications, including decorative pillows and upholstery, and it provides a unique textural component not usually found in traditional outdoor fabrics. The Sunbrella terry collection includes 14 colors: parchment, beige, wren, cocoa, dove, char, navy, mineral, spa, moss, herbal, wheat, pumpkin, and nutmeg. Contact: (336) 221-2211 or www.sunbrella.com. Circle Reader Service No. 153

MHP Patriot Gas Grill Introducing the new MHP Patriot gas grill: A new standard has been set, when it comes to combining high quality and value in a U.S.–made grill. The grill’s features include a powder-coated aluminized-steel column and base with four locking casters, a rotary igniter, stainless-steel drop-down shelves, and a drop-in warming rack. In addition, it ships in one box—with built-in profit for you, at a price consumers will love. Contact: (888) 647-4745 or www.mhpgrills.com. Circle Reader Service No. 156

SCHOTT Nextrema Glass Ceramic

SCHOTT Nextrema® glass ceramic provides a new view into a grill. The same properties that allow for a view into a fireplace can now allow for a view into the grill. This gives the cook the opportunity to check on the cooking food without lifting the lid, which can cause a rapid drop in temperature. SCHOTT Nextrema is resistant to the high temperatures required in grilling. It has zero thermal expansion, which allows for large viewing windows that can survive thermal shock from outdoor-temperature shifts (such as those caused by rain). Contact: (502) 657-4417 or www.us.schott.com/hometech. Circle Reader Service No. 154

Constructed of plush fiberfill fabric ribbons in a thatch-work pattern, ® Softweave hammocks offer uncanny comfort. The spreader bars are fashioned from South American cumaru, one of the hardest and densest woods on earth. The zinc-planted hanging chains and hardware add to the exceptional looks and durability. The hammock is available in four colors. The optional hammock pillow and Roman Arc stand are shown. Contact: (800) 334-1078 or www.thehammocksource.com.

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

Secure Pellet is the ideal venting solution for pellet- or biofuel-burning stoves, as well as low-temperature or liquid-fuel–burning appliances. The system is designed to offer unparalleled strength and installation ease with a quick and easy twist-lock assembly. Secure Pellet is available in 3- and 4-inch diameters. Contact: (800) 835-4429 or www.securitychimneys.com. Circle Reader Service No. 157

Softweave Hammock by Hatteras Hammocks

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Secure Pellet

senotherm UHT-Hydro senotherm® UHT-Hydro is the first entirely water-based coating system resistant to high temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees (600 degrees Celsius) that dries and hardens completely at room temperature. It’s a senotherm Non-Smoker system. Compared with conventional high-temperature coatings, senotherm UHT-Hydro offers a brilliant and extremely hard surface, available in various colors and as UHT-Hydro Decor, specially designed for grills and barbecues. Contact: (404) 219-2794, (404) 994-2292, info@senotherm.us, or www.senotherm.us. Circle Reader Service No. 158

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PRODUCT PROFILES New Fire Tables From NorthCape

Kuma Ashwood

NorthCape International is pleased to announce the introduction of its expanded line of fire tables for the 2015 season. Round and square woven-top fire tables in six of the company’s most popular resin finishes are available in its domestic warehouses for quick shipment. NorthCape also offers rectangular bases and alternative tops, including Durawood and three shades of premium, solid-surface granite. As the company says, when you’re looking for style, comfort, and value—take a fresh look at NorthCape. Contact: (708) 563-2890 or www.northcapeoutdoor.com.

One of the most versatile stoves manufactured today, the Ashwood can be fitted with many high-quality options, including an ash pan, legs or a wood-storage pedestal, and a variable-speed blower, as well as a variety of door finishes. Each stove is made by one craftsperson and has the finish details you would expect on a handmade stove. Contact: (888) 714-5294 or www.kumastoves.com.

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UltimateOne Chimney UltimateOne is a premium chimney line designed and manufactured with the ultimate in safety and high performance. This 1-inch chimney features the finest materials; commercial-grade insulation; and a tool-free, latch-style locking band. As the company says, get the best: Choose UltimateOne. Contact: (800) 992-8368 or www.selkirkcorp.com.

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Aden Mantel

The magnificent stature of the Aden mantel—combined with its alluring cherrywood finish—produces a forceful presence in any home. Solid-wood handcarved columns border the sides of the mantel while encompassing a beautiful, solid-wood Victorian handcarved ornament. Other stylish details (such as the dentil molding and black granite-styled surround) create a refined, polished appearance. The Aden is simply grand and will demand the attention of all those who bask in its warm glow. Contact: (800) 461-5581 or www.napoleonfireplaces.com.

Ambiance AEI proudly announces the introduction of the Ambiance stainless-steel fire feature (PC14SS), adding to the most complete offering of outdoor comfort heat available from any single source. Ambiance’s features include a 4-inch Ambi-Fire borosilicate-glass tube, the Ambi-Glo emitter-grid system, the Pyromid ceramic-burner system, and Ambi-Brite reflectors (at all three corners) to enhance the dancing flame. Ambiance is backed by AEI Corp., which is celebrating its 48th year in the premium–gas-grill and outdoor–comfort-heat industries. Contact: (949) 474-3070 or www.aeicorporation.com. Circle Reader Service No. 161

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Broil King Keg 5000

Featuring an innovative design, the Broil King® Keg™ charcoal grill builds upon Broil King’s philosophy of engineering superior-performing grills that evoke passion for outdoor entertaining. Introduced to the Broil King assortment in 2012, the Broil King Keg has been redesigned for 2015, with a removable ash catcher and a stylish, metallic-gray paint color. Unlike most ceramic kamado-style grills, the Broil King Keg’s durable body is made of double-walled steel, with high-grade insulation between the walls. This technologically advanced design holds temperatures at a narrow range for continuous, even heat, delivering textbook cooking results. In spring 2015, Onward Manufacturing Company will also introduce a grilling cabinet for the Broil King Keg series of grills. Made from durable stainless steel and featuring plenty of work and storage space, the stylish cabinet lets Keg owners create a complete outdoor-grilling area. Contact: (800) 245-5138 or www.broilkingbbq.com. Circle Reader Service No. 164

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

Aesthetically Pleasing The low-profile heaters and low clearance requirements allow the fixtures to blend into any environment seamlessly. Infratech heaters represent a good balance among efficiency, heating performance, and low visual impact. Infratech heaters produce no harsh visible light or glare to spoil the mood or strain your eyes. Contact: (800) 421-9455 or www.infratech-usa.com. Circle Reader Service No. 165

Element Series Vent Free

Hargrove introduces the contemporary Element series to its vent-free lineup. The Element series is available in 18-, 24-, and 30-inch sizes for natural gas or LP and is offered with a millivolt on/off option. The burner system comes standard with a stainless-steel reflective back panel that enhances the view of the flame. Multiple media options—including fireglass and firebeads, or a combination of these, along with an Aspen or Driftwood log kit or river stones—will complete the desired look. Contact: (800) 725-4166 or www.hargrovegaslogs.com. Circle Reader Service No. 166

Firepits by Summerset Professional Grills Now, you can have all the warmth and comfort of your living room in your own backyard. All Summerset Professional firepits are constructed with rust-resistant 1x1-inch welded-steel framing. Firepits include installation lines; fireglass; a stainless-steel access door; and a high-quality, 140,000-Btu, 304 stainless-steel burner. They are available with porcelain or granite tops, with stucco or Ameristone™ finishes. Contact: (800) 966-8126 or www.summersetgrills.com. Circle Reader Service No. 167

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PRODUCT PROFILES Pawleys Island Curtains and Pillows Feature Sunbrella Fabrics

Zero-clearance Wood-burning Fireplaces by Pacific Energy

Because there is no such thing as too much comfort, Pawleys Island is pleased to showcase its flowing tab- or grommet-top curtains and decorative designer pillows. Constructed of Sunbrella® fabrics in calming colors characteristic of the Carolina Lowcountry, both are offered in a range of colors that not only match, but complement. Contact: (800) 334-1078 or www.thehammocksource.com.

This year, Pacific Energy introduces a powerful lineup of wood-burning fireplaces to the market. With three firebox sizes for heating performance, the FP30, FP25, and FP16 are easy to install and feature the company’s unique, high-capacity stainless-steel baffle; a floating firebox; extended-burn technology; and a clean airwash system. Exclusive to the FP30 and the FP25, Pacific Energy’s EPA–approved powered heat-distribution system allows for heat transfer above and below grade. Contact: (888) 223-0088, sales@pacificenergy.net, or www.pacificenergy.net. Circle Reader Service No. 171

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Smoke-N-Hot Grill Pro Series The Smoke-N-Hot Pro series pellet grill is an advanced pellet grill that will revolutionize your outdoor-cooking experience. The digital control allows you to set the exact temperature at which you want to cook, ranging from 180 to 600 degrees. Every grill is complete with a meat probe, to make your cooking experience as simple as possible. The wood pellets allow for a savory wood-fire flavor. Contact: (360) 314-2012 or www.hearthdistribution.com.

Smaller spaces rejoice: The convertible, convenient, beautifully burning Majestic Patriot direct-vent fireplace is now available in a 33-inch size. Priced to please, the Patriot system boasts an abundance of enviable features, yet remains highly functional, economical, and flexible enough to suit any space, design, or decor. Your customers will love the clean, contemporary design—which, paired with a traditional log set or the sleek fireglass media, will add understated, affordable elegance to any room. Contact: (800) 867-0454 or www.majesticproducts.com.

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Real Fyre G19 Vent-free Gas Logs

The new Real Fyre G19 vent-free gas logs feature dancing flames, crisp bark detail, and a glowing front log to create a beautiful, realistic, and heat-efficient fire. The G19 is available in both Foothill Oak and Foothill Split Oak styles in 18-, 24-, and 30-inch sizes. The system’s flat burner design (with a remote control) is offered in three styles: standing pilot with on/off settings, standing pilot with variable flame, and electronic variable flame. Contact: (800) 332-3973 or www.rhpeterson.com/realfyre. Circle Reader Service No. 170

33-inch Patriot Direct-vent Fireplace

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

Ambiance Antique Bronze AEI proudly announces the introduction of the Ambiance antique bronze fire feature (PC14AB), adding to the most complete offering of outdoor comfort heat available from any single source. Ambiance’s features include a 4-inch Ambi-Fire borosilicate-glass tube, the Ambi-Glo emitter-grid system, the Pyromid ceramic-burner system, and Ambi-Brite reflectors (at all three corners) to enhance the dancing flame. Ambiance is backed by AEI Corp., which is celebrating its 48th year in the premium–gas-grill and outdoor–comfort-heat industries. Contact: (949) 474-3070 or www.aeicorporation.com. Circle Reader Service No. 173

Valor L2 Linear Series Fireplaces

Kozy Heat’s Bayport 36

Built on a strong foundation of continuous fireplace innovation, the Valor linear series welcomes the first of its kind: a wide-format fireplace that integrates linear design with impressive radiant-heat technology. Featuring leading-edge, contemporary design, the company’s mission remains the same: Provide the efficient comfort, advanced controllability, distinctive quality, and superior heating performance that Valor owners have relied on (even when the power goes out) for decades. A bold statement in any living space, the L2 is luxury-fireplace design at its finest. Inspired by the highly successful L1 series, the L2 boasts an impressive 50-inch linear viewing area that highlights the magnificent flames within it. With beautiful radiance in both high flames and low, glowing embers, the L2 combines Valor efficiency and heating performance with the latest in contemporary styling. Contact: (800) 468-2567 or www.valorfireplaces.com.

The Bayport offers a large and impressive viewing area, with Kozy Heat’s most realistic logs and burner system yet. The Bayport provides the maximum comfort and efficiency available in a gas fireplace. Contact: (800) 253-4904 or www.kozyheat.com. Circle Reader Service No. 177

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HPC Adds to the Lineup Meeting the request of the customer, HPC’s largest insert is no longer custom. The CSA–certified, 54-inch flat round insert—with a 48-inch burner, a 400,000-Btu output, electronic ignition, hot-wire ignition technology, 304 stainless-steel material, a 0.75-inch center hub and tubing, and a four-spoke burner—is available in natural gas or propane versions. Contact: (877) 433-7001 or hpcfire.com. Circle Reader Service No. 178

Regency Pro-Series Hybrid Catalytic Insert Style, function, and efficiency: Regency’s CI2600 Pro-Series hybrid catalytic insert is one of the top-selling wood-burning inserts in North America. The clean lines and simple design will stand the test of time, and its extensive burn times reduce fuel consumption, saving time and money. Contact: (800) 442-7432 (United States), (866) 946-5155 (Canada), or www.regency-vision.com. Circle Reader Service No. 175

Secure Temp ASHT+

Come to trust 33 years of American made quality with a family of hearth products second to none and the best warranty in the industry.

Seeking new reps & dealers. See us in Nashville at Booth #1654 888-714-5294

Secure Temp ASHT+ is a double-wall, all–stainless-steel chimney with 1 inch of Secura Plus insulation. The system minimizes heat loss through the chimney walls and can withstand intense heat. Secure Temp ASHT+ also offers great resistance to corrosion, with its thin stainless-steel inner lining. Contact: (800) 835-4429 or www.securitychimneys.com.

Kuma is now offering a premium pellet fired BBQ. All U.S. made with an out of the box built in option, best warranty & a super quick grilling zone kumastoves.com

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PRODUCT PROFILES 864 TRV Clean-face Gas Fireplace Fireplace Xtrordinair’s 864™ TRV clean-face gas fireplace is the perfect solution for anyone looking for a big, beautiful fire with great supplemental heat. The large, high-quality, all-glass fire view shows no visible face, grills, or louvers—it simply highlights the fire and the detailed Dancing-Fyre™ log set. This deluxe fireplace features the easy-to-use GreenSmart™ 2 wall-mounted remote, along with Comfort Control, which allows you to turn the heat down while still maintaining a beautiful fire display. Contact: (800) 654-1177 or www.travisindustries.com. Circle Reader Service No. 179

Vision

Media Mantel (26MMS5591M319)

This media mantel boasts an industrial-chic style, while creating ample storage space for all of your media components. The two side cabinets (with adjustable shelves) are perfect for creating custom storage options, while the two side drawers provide additional storage. The sound bar above the realistic fire features two main speakers with Bluetooth capabilities, as well as audiovisual connections for a hardwired connection, making this the perfect media mantel for your entertainment needs. Contact: (866) 661-1218 or www.twinstarhome.com. Circle Reader Service No. 182

The award-winning Vision is the industry’s first and only see-through wood-burning stove. It’s noncatalytic and EPA approved, with very low emissions (averaging 3.6 grams per hour). The firebox is made of high-grade stainless steel, for a quicker heat transfer and more durability. It comes completely assembled, with two heat-activated blowers, a sealed ash pan, a built-in barbecue grill, and a patented automatic air control. The user can load this stove on either side. Its maximum log size is 24 inches. Contact: (914) 886-2722 or www.supremem.com. Circle Reader Service No. 180

Zurich Series—Z460D Model Direct-Temp Directvent System Direct-Temp sets the standard in gas-appliance venting, with laser precision components that deliver reliable performance. The silicone fiberglass seal ensures joint integrity. Direct-Temp is accepted with most major brands of appliances. For a complete listing, visit the company’s website. Contact: (800) 992-8368 or www.selkirkcorp.com.

The Zurich series from Swiss Grill is a true forerunner in the world of alfresco dining. The units in this range are manufactured almost entirely from stainless steel—from the very first screw right through to the finishing touches. These barbecues are built to last. The Zurich series stands for both quality and size, the ultimate in a range of competition-stopping design. The units in this range are aimed toward the seasoned barbecue professional. Contact: (888) 297-0238 or www.swissgrills.com. Circle Reader Service No. 183

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Broil King Porta-Chef 120 Cooking on the go has never been more convenient than with the Porta-Chef® series of grills from Broil King. These grills offer an exceptional amount of grilling space, compared with other portable grills—allowing you to cook delicious meals for the whole family or a feast for friends before the big game. The sturdy legs quickly snap into place, providing a stable stand-alone grill. New to the series for 2015 is the Porta-Chef 120, featuring a new lid profile, with a stainless-steel insert and solid inset bolts. Contact: (800) 245-5138 or www.broilkingbbq.com. Circle Reader Service No. 184

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

Tri-Burn Grill Head

Regency Liberty and Horizon Radiant Inserts

MHP’s new Tri-Burn grill head will provide you with more efficient indirect cooking. Three cast–stainless-steel oval burners and stainless-steel heat plates produce a total of 35,000 Btu, while the individual electronic-ignition temperature controls give you added flexibility while cooking. These grills also feature the patented SearMagic® cooking grids and warming rack, a Sta-Kool stainless-steel handle, and a built-in heat indicator. The grill head is available on the company’s W3G4 and T3G4 models. Contact: (888) 647-4745 or www.mhpgrills.com.

Regency is proud to present the new additions to the Liberty and Horizon insert lines, available in two sizes: Enjoy the combined power of radiant and convective heat. Add a Vignette designer faceplate, available in multiple colors to suit your taste. The LRI4E is shown with a platinum Vignette faceplate. Contact: (800) 442-7432 (United States), (866) 946-5155 (Canada), or www.regency-vision.com. Circle Reader Service No. 186

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CVS The CVS (or concentric vent system) for use with Ortal power-vented fireplaces is the only concentric vent system to incorporate O-rings in the inner wall and outer casing to prevent exhaust or combustion-air leakage. The CVS is a fully sealed, gas-tight system to deliver superior performance with the heating unit. Contact: (800) 835-4429 or www.duravent.com. Circle Reader Service No. 187

stone facings & wood mantels

visit our website:

www.mlwstone.com

Est. 1969

3045 KINGSTON COURT NORCROSS, GA 30071 1.800.477.7665 f)770.409.0431

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PRODUCT PROFILES DaVinci Custom Fireplaces DaVinci Custom Fireplaces are the most unique and innovative decorative custom gas fireplaces ever made. They include revolutionary patent-pending features never before seen with linear fireplaces—such as cool-touch glass, multicolored interior LED lighting, and zero clearance to combustible surfaces. A sleek, all-glass viewing area surrounds rich, dancing flames over a bed of platinum crushed glass. These made-to-order fireplaces have virtually no design limitations and are offered in lengths of 3 to 20 feet, 12- or 20-inch glass heights, and seven design configurations. Contact: (800) 654-1177 or www.da-vincifireplaces.com. Circle Reader Service No. 188

Arosa Series—A200 Model

The Arosa range is Swiss Grill’s best-selling line of barbecues. They are the perfect size for your backyard and can easily host an alfresco party of up to 20 guests. The Arosa series from Swiss Grill defines new boundaries—with design, function, and quality being in the forefront for this grill. The Arosa is a modern barbecue, taking tried and tested methods and making them better. Contact: (888) 297-0238 or www.swissgrills.com.

Galaxy

The award-winning Galaxy is the industry’s largest noncatalytic, EPA–approved, zero-clearance fireplace. It has a heating capacity of 2,500 square feet, with maximum output of 100,000 Btu per hour. The fireplace is available with different surround options and comes standard with two heat-activated blowers, a sealed ash pan, and a built-in barbecue grill. The Galaxy has a unique, patented air control that regulates combustion automatically. It also has a patented Easy-Light mechanism, which ensures a quick and easy start for the fire and helps keep the glass clean. Contact: anastasia@supremem.com, (877) 593-4722, or www.supremem.com. Circle Reader Service No. 191

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PelletVent Pro Ascent 42 Gas Fireplace

The Ascent™ 42 enhances ambience in any room with the most industry realistic, exclusive PHAZER® log set and glowing ember bed. The clean-faced design of the Ascent 42 maximizes optimal viewing to ensure that your new fireplace is enjoyed to the fullest. An approved safety barrier comes standard. Contact: (800) 461-5581 or www.napoleonfireplaces.com.

PelletVent Pro is a venting system for stoves and inserts that use wood pellets, corn and other biofuels, or oil as fuel. All of PelletVent Pro’s components that come into contact with flue gases are built with an inner wall of corrosion-resistant superferritic metal. Contact: (800) 835-4429 or www.duravent.com. Circle Reader Service No. 192

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Barbecue Islands by Summerset Professional Grills

Design your own outdoor space with Summerset’s barbecue islands, and begin making wonderful memories with friends and family. There are four different models to choose from with standard finish options of porcelain and stucco or upgraded finish options of granite and Ameristone™ (and full customization): Your dream outdoor space can become a reality. Built to last—with rust-resistant 1x1-inch, 60-gauge, MIG–welded steel construction frames and Trex® railing systems—Summerset islands include complete electrical systems. Contact: (800) 966-8126 or www.summersetgrills.com. Circle Reader Service No. 193

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PRODUCT PROFILES Valor H5 Series Fireplaces

Twin-Star/ClassicFlame (BFA67-94667-MCH-Gramercy)

This impressive chocolate-finish wooden audio/video cabinet offers versatility and functionality, with an elegant fireplace and integrated Bell’O digital surround-sound speakers with Bluetooth. It can accommodate most televisions of up to 75 inches (150 pounds). It can also support up to five audio/video components. The fireplace features a Spectrafire Plus, with five different flame colors and adjustable flame speeds, in addition to a remote control and a sleep timer. The 28-inch energy-efficient fireplace can heat up to 1,000 square feet. Elegant door panels of dark-tinted, tempered safety glass help hide clutter while allowing for the operation of remote controls. Contact: (866) 661-1218 or www.twinstarhome.com. Circle Reader Service No. 194

SCHOTT ROBAX Fireplace Viewing Panel The SCHOTT ROBAX® fireplace viewing panel, with an opening angle of 270 degrees, meets the highest demands for unique shapes. This formed fire-viewing window adds to a product portfolio that offers customers a wide variety of shapes and designs, which is becoming more and more important. The innovative panel from SCHOTT’s luxury segment is available with a radius of 300 millimeters (11.8 inches) and a height of 600 millimeters (23.6 inches), with other dimensions available upon request. Contact: (502) 657-4417 or www.us.schott.com/hometech. Circle Reader Service No. 195

The Horizon series has proved itself as a tried-and-true heater, warming thousands of homes, across North America, for almost two decades. The H5 continues the Horizon tradition with a diverse fireplace, blending distinctive, high-quality materials with the latest in radiant- and convective-heat technology. Flexible venting options and a slim engine depth position the H5 as a versatile fireplace upgrade, ideal for existing-home renovations and new construction. The H5 combines compact design with a generous viewing area, highlighting a collection of ambient fires and glowing embers within. Equipped with four unique firebed options (Murano glass, decorative glass, traditional logs, and Pebble Beach driftwood), the H5 caters to those seeking both traditional and contemporary flame appeal. A vibrant addition to the Horizon series family, the H5 is sure to bring users countless hours of steady, reliable warmth for years to come. Contact: (800) 468-2567 or www.valorfireplaces.com. Circle Reader Service No. 196

Monessen Kentucky Wildwood Vent-free Log Set

Monessen, the leader in vent-free technology, is pleased to announce the introduction of its new Kentucky Wildwood vent-free log set. Featuring a beautiful log stack, a glowing ember bed, and dancing flames, this 99.9% efficient log set (combined with the Natural Blaze burner) adds instant heat and ambience to any space. With an output of up to 37,000 Btu, this 24-inch, seven-piece log set is easy to install and requires no venting. Offer your customers the gold standard in energy-efficient heat with Kentucky Wildwood. Contact: (859) 987-0740 or www.monessenhearth.com. Circle Reader Service No. 197

Landscape FullView The Landscape FullView built-in electric fireplace is the first of its kind, creating a perfect substitute for a linear gas fireplace. This unique, frameless design allows edge-to-edge flame presentation, as well as unlimited surround capabilities. The Landscape FullView is available in five different sizes (for any application) and with three customizable flame-bed options; there is sure to be a combination to fit your needs. These products are only available through Modern Flames. Contact: (877) 246-9353 or www.modernflames.com. Circle Reader Service No. 198

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INDUSTRYNEWS

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2014 INTERNATIONAL POOL/SPA/PATIO EXPO MAKES A SPLASH IN ORLANDO The 2014 International Pool/Spa/Patio (PSP) Expo made a splash as it returned to Orlando, Florida, for the first time in seven years on November 5–7, 2014, bringing the region an impressive display of industry products, education, and networking opportunities. The 2014 PSP Expo drew 11,103 attendees from across the country and around the world: a strong showing from the global pool, spa, and outdoor industries. Attendees experienced a 148,600–squarefoot exhibit hall packed with new industry product launches, innovative show-floor features, and an unmatched lineup of on-floor events. The PSP Expo’s conference program, prize giveaways, celebrity appearances, and many other new show features

added to the success of the event. The 2014 PSP Expo exhibit hall was a Record attendance was reported at the 2014 International Pool/Spa/Patio Expo stunning display of water, technology, and equipment, with 1,486 booths repre- in Orlando senting 552 companies. Exhibitors greeted attendees with incredible booths that not only 2014 was the first year for the commercial-educapleased the eye, but were packed with products to tion classroom, located on the show floor. Classes benefit the attendees’ businesses. Attendees had an were free for attendees, as part of the inaugural-year unparalleled opportunity for learning, not only launch of the commercial expansion of the PSP Expo. through the preconference offerings of the In addition to the already-popular on-floor Genesis 3 Association of Pool & Spa Professionals and Genesis lifestyle program and Hayward School of Business 3, along with over 250 hours of PSP Expo conference education classes, the 2014 PSP Expo also featured sessions, but also through a new network of on-floor Splash Talk networking lounges, which offered socialeducation features. media and backyard-living learning opportunities.

Montigo Unveils Its BF100-ST

Installed at the Mahony & Sons Irish pub in Vancouver, British Columbia (overlooking the seawall), is Montigo’s newest and largest model of the BF series, the BF100-ST. Built to resemble the fireplaces of age-old taverns in Ireland, the BF100-ST has glowing flames that complement the pub’s Irish architecture. With Guinness in hand, patrons enjoy the 10-foot design of the fireplace while taking in a breathtaking view of the city on the sea. The BF series is available in singlesided and see-through configurations and comes standard with a designer log set and wrought-iron grate. It’s available with the company’s Cool Pack or powered Cool Pack technology.

Oriental Weavers Makes Significant Capital Investment in U.S. Facilities

Oriental Weavers, the world’s largest manufacturer of machine-woven rugs, has announced a significant capital investment made in its U.S. manufacturing and warehousing facilities. The expansion, which occurred in late 2014, allowed for a 12% capacity increase at the company’s Dalton, Georgia, manufacturing facility and was due largely to the recent high demand for domestically made products. The company first invested in a new high-speed loom to put the expansion wheels in motion. The new loom was the first 5-meter loom to be installed in the United States and is the fastest and most technologically advanced loom of its kind. The new loom, 35% faster than the industry standard, gives Oriental Weavers the exclusive ability to produce area rugs made in the United States more efficiently by significantly increasing production, reducing waste, and eliminating excessive inventory—all while maintaining the existing level of energy required. In addition, due to the company’s organic growth and the increased capacity that the new high-speed loom yields, Oriental Weavers is expanding its distribution center, located in Dalton. The expansion, of nearly 200,000 square feet, will accommodate the added production and will provide new opportunities for skilled workers living in the Northwestern Georgia area.

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INDUSTRYNEWS Twin-Star International Acquires Larger Space at Las Vegas Market

Twin-Star International debuted its latest products in a new showroom during the January Las Vegas Market™. Located in World Market Center, the new showroom boasted 10,000 square feet of space, providing the ability to display the company’s products in such a way that its Tresanti®, Twin-Star Home, Duraflame®, and ClassicFlame® lines all can be seen at once. Twin-Star also introduced the product line of the newly acquired Bell’O International, with a lineup that features beds, audiovisual towers, Triple Play television stands, wooden cabinets, audiovisual stands, speaker stands, home-theater seating, and desks. The new showroom, a true market destination, provided attendees with a variety of amenities, including free high-speed Wi-Fi. The showroom has a full kitchen for catered events, providing the company with the ability to offer complimentary beverages, pastries, and lunches in its kitchen throughout the market. Afternoon cocktails and appetizers were offered in the new showroom daily—another perk

for the company’s large customer draw. The layout provided a more homelike setting, enabling retailers to view the line in a lifestyle environment.

Capel Rugs Introduces New Braided Collections

Capel Rugs maintains its position as the rug industry’s fashion-forward leader with three new braided collections and a variety of rugs that incorporate Pantone’s 2015 color of the year, Marsala. The new braided collections include Crystal Falls, which incorporates calming pastels; Dramatic Static, which generates a sprayed, speckled effect, with tons of texture; and Untamed, which sizzles with bold color combinations. Made in Capel’s Troy, North Carolina, factory since 1917, Capel braided rugs are true American Originals™, as the company puts it. Handcrafted from the finest wool, cotton, and performance-blend yarns, Capel’s braids are recognized around the world for their peerless craftsmanship and unique beauty. Allen Robertson, vice president of sales, says, “Capel is always searching for robust, rich color stories,

TWO POPULAR SIFAS COLLECTIONS ARE PERFECT FOR MIXING AND MATCHING In response to customer demand, Sifas—a well-known French manufacturer of high-quality, contemporary indoor/outdoor furniture collecKomfy sofas and chairs (foreground) with Kwadra chairs tions for poolsides, patios, sunrooms, and yachts—has added new pieces and color options to its two most popular product lines, the Kwadra and Komfy collections. The Kwadra and Komfy collections have become Sifas’ best-selling collections in the United States due to their simple, clean lines; their numerous display options; and their attractive pricing structure. As the two collections have grown, demand for additional display options also has grown. In response, for 2015, Sifas is introducing three new dining tables from the Kwadra collection and is adding mocha as a color choice (in addition to the original white).

and deep reds and earthy browns have been a part of our product line for many years. From established collections to brand-new designs, we have several exciting Marsala inspirations to share with our customers.”

Industry Veteran C.P. Davis Joins Casual Cushion Corp.

C.P. Davis will join Casual Cushion Corp. as the company’s CEO. Davis is a highly respected industry executive with a track record for driving strong business growth, leading strategic operational initiatives, and delivering improved results. “I am extremely honored to be named the senior executive of Casual Cushion,” Davis says. “I have always admired the company and the strong entrepreneurial spirit demonstrated by the Siesel family. I look forward to leading the company, executing an exciting growth plan, and continuing to improve upon the high-value products and services that Casual Cushion provides to its customers.” Davis has a long history of success in the manufacturing industry, with more than 25 years of experience in business management and operational improvement. He was formerly the CEO of Shuford Mills, also known as Outdura, and has advised numerous suppliers, manufacturers, and wholesalers in the specialty-textile sector. Jason Siesel, vice president of Casual Cushion, says, “Given our tremendous growth and expansion during the past few years, someone with C.P.’s strong leadership skills and background in building businesses is exactly what we need to move our quickly growing company forward. C.P.’s incredible experience within the industry, along with his broad financial, sales, and operational background, will prove to be integral to Casual Cushion as we focus on significant growth opportunities.”

SABER GRILLS INTRODUCES THE EDGE Saber Grills LLC has expanded its line of premium infrared gas grills with the addition of the EDGE™ grill, a smart, high-performance, contemporary barbecue that offers real-time cooking information via Wi-Fi connection. Designed to look and cook like no other grill, the EDGE grill is a beautifully designed, wellengineered grill that makes full use of smart technology to deliver a superior cooking experience. The EDGE is a two-burner grill (with a 340–square-inch cooking surface) made of high-grade 304 stainless steel. The grill’s The EDGE grill by Saber Grills sleek profile was achieved by reengineering the burner system and replacing it with a superefficient, patented infrared cooking system that preheats quickly, eliminates flare-ups, and generates even heat across the entire grill surface. An LCD panel on the front of the grill displays grate temperature, fuel-tank levels, the burners’ on/off status, and battery life. The grill features an all-infrared cooking system that has a wide temperature range and uses 30% less gas than is used by traditional gas grills. 92

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

Homecrest to Showcase More Than 100 Fire Tables at HPBExpo Homecrest Outdoor Living will be displaying its diverse line of fire tables at HPBExpo in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 5–7, 2015. With a rich history of excellence and stylish designs, Homecrest offers affordable and comfortable living for outdoors. In addition to its 2015 fire-table lineup, Homecrest will be unveiling its new seating and dining collections; view them at booth 2939. Homecrest designs are made in the United States. Visit www.homecrest.com.

VERMONT CASTINGS GROUP BENEFITS FROM ACQUISITION Four months after HNI Corp. and its Hearth & Home Technologies (HHT) business acquired Vermont Castings Group (VCG), capital is flowing into VCG as its operations become more efficient. The efficiency is part of the HHT way, and Brad Determan, president of the HHT Group (Lakeville, Minnesota) and executive vice president of HNI (Muscatine, Iowa), believes that the culture change can help VCG realize its considerable potential. By all accounts, the headline-making acquisition came at a crucial time for VCG, a company with annual revenue of approximately $100 million that was just emerging from several years of downward-trending numbers. Ricardo León, previous owner of VCG, now serves as president of the company. “VCG was in a steady decline from 2006 to 2013. In 2014, we saw that decline stop—and actually go up,” León says. The uptick caught the attention of Determan, who ultimately pulled the trigger on the acquisition. “The last years of VCG’s existence, prior to our acquisition, were pretty tumultuous,” he says. “We think it is now headed in the right direction. What Ricardo has been doing is correct and aligned with what we believe in doing. VCG is now a stand-alone company, and it will remain that way for the foreseeable future.” No employees have lost jobs as a result of the deal, and while León and Determan hope to keep it that way, they are committed to streamlining operations, particularly when it comes to VCG’s two Vermont sites. VCG has three locations: a 300,000–square-foot facility in Paris, Kentucky; a foundry in Randolph, Vermont; and an assembly/enamel facility in Bethel, Vermont. “The two Vermont facilities are 10 miles apart,” León explains. “The plan

U.S. Sailing Team Sperry Top-Sider Partners With Sunbrella Fabrics

there has been to consolidate those facilities into the foundry in Randolph. Right now, however, the focus is on keeping the businesses running, making them more efficient, and (ultimately) consolidating that footprint. In the meantime, the course for 2015 and 2016 is to keep doing what we’re doing.” As both parties attempt to keep what works and improve elsewhere, executives at HHT have taken a hard look at their new brands—and they love what they see. “It’s not so much that VCG’s Majestic and Monessen brands strengthen our core brands; it’s more that they complement our product suite very well,” Determan says. “The VCG brand has a deep heritage in wood stoves. Majestic still maintains the number-three position among builders, and that complements our Heatilator and Heat & Glo brands, which are number one and number two.” The overall infusion of human resources and money into the VCG brand gives HHT the valuable opportunity to serve more customers with more brands. As HHT is a publicly traded company with a core growth strategy, the acquisition came at the right time for it (and for the market). “HHT was also a customer of VCG, which provided for some of its cast-iron needs through our foundry in Randolph,” León says. “In 2013, HHT could see our focus. It saw the progress, the commitment, and the fact that we were rededicating ourselves. Meanwhile, the housing market is recovering, unemployment is dropping, and consumer confidence is increasing. These broader macroeconomic indicators are positive factors that we can capitalize on through HHT’s help in improving our manufacturing, supply chain, and overall execution.”

The U.S. Sailing Team Sperry Top-Sider has partnered with Sunbrella® fabrics, the leading producer of performance and marine canvas around the globe. Sunbrella was named as a gold-level sponsor of the U.S. Sailing Team Sperry Top-Sider, the nation’s Olympic and Paralympic sailing team, and also as the presenting sponsor of ISAF Sailing World Cup Miami, North America’s premier Olympic- and Paralympic-class regatta. Sunbrella, a North Carolina brand with deep roots in the U.S. sail-

He continues, “Maybe the best things have been the new leadership and our change of focus from cash, cost, and customer to quality, delivery, cost, and safety. We are also improving our safety procedures with more formality. Add to all that the capital investments in the foundry for new equipment and focusing on getting organized, sequenced, and scheduled. Ultimately, it’s great to have a partner like HHT.”

MARKETING AT HPBEXPO

Ricardo León

Specialty retailers and builders are still digesting the acquisition, but the initial reaction has been “better than expected,” Determan says. He attributes the feedback to HHT’s previous acquisitions, which have gone smoothly. “There is always nervousness and apprehension around these kinds of transactions,” he says. “One of the reasons it has been good is our track record. We say Brad Determan what we intend to do, and we do what we say. We are a collection of a lot of time talking with customers.” brands that has been built partially by Beyond the brands and their facilities, acquisition and partially by organic Determan is most excited about VCG’s growth. We take pride in being a success- capable employees, all of whom are now ful family of brands with ex-owners run- part of HHT and its HNI parent corning around, having fun.” poration. He says, “With a bit of supLeón adds, “We announced this to our port and some lean methodologies, I customers by hosting a conference call. am excited to see the talent emerge and There was some apprehension: Are to watch them grow. These people are they going to dump brands? Now, there great. It’s true that there is a significant is an expectation that we are going to amount of change underway. Our busibecome stronger and better. We’re now ness philosophy centers around lean playing in the big leagues, and we principles; the VCG people are sort of expect the game to get better. I’ll learn a drinking from a fire hose right now, but lot more when I’m at HPBExpo in they are doing well and moving quickly Nashville, Tennessee, because I’ll spend in the right direction.”

ing community, will now assume a prominent role in fostering the future of high-performance sailing the United States. Josh Adams, managing director of U.S. Olympic sailing, says, “Sunbrella and the U.S. Sailing Team Sperry Top-Sider share many core principles, and we are very excited to bring it onboard. With our mutual commitment to high performance, technical innovation, and sustainable results, this is a natural partnership on many levels. By joining our team’s Rio 2016 campaign, Sunbrella adds tremendous support to U.S. Olympic and Paralympic athletes.” Founded in 1961, Sunbrella began offering

marine-upholstery products in the mid-1970s. By producing innovative canvas and fabrics that were exceptionally weather resistant and easy to maintain, Sunbrella quickly became a dominant player in the marine industry. Fabric made by Sunbrella’s parent company and manufacturer, Glen Raven, was notably used for the U.S. flag planted on the moon by Apollo 11 astronauts in 1969. With a core brand identity that celebrates the best of what the United States has to offer, Sunbrella now will adorn the hulls and sails of U.S. Sailing Team Sperry TopSider athletes as they make their push toward the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

January/February 2015 Patio & Hearth Products Report

ADVERTISER INDEX Advertiser

PRODUCT PROFILES DIRECTORY Phone

Website

Page

Company

Page

AEI ............................................................(949) 474-3070 ..............www.aeicorporation.com ..............................91

AEI ................................................................................................................82, 84

Agio ..........................................................(888) 997-7623 ..............www.agio-usa.com..........................................5

Agio................................................................................................................62, 64

Alfresco Home ..........................................(610) 705-8808 ..............www.alfresco.com ........................................38

Alfresco Home................................................................................................62, 67

American Fireglass ....................................(888) 264-1017 ..............www.americanfireglass.com ..........................81

American Fireglass ........................................................................................64, 67

Big Green Egg ..........................................(770) 938-9394 ..............www.biggreenegg.com ................................22

Big Green Egg................................................................................................62, 67

Blaze King ................................................(509) 522-2730 ..............www.blazeking.com ......................................57

Blaze King ......................................................................................................64, 70

Bromic Heating ........................................(800) 301-1293 ..............www.bromicheating.com ..............................25

Bromic Heating ..............................................................................................60, 70

Bull Outdoor Products ..............................(800) 521-2855 ..............www.bullbbq.com ........................................35 California Outdoor Concepts ....................(877) 274-6773 ..............www.californiaoutdoorconcepts.com ............41 The Companion Group ............................(800) 521-0505 ..............www.companion-group.com ........................15 Country Lane Gazebos ............................(717) 351-9250 ..............www.gazebo.com ........................................46 Coyote Outdoor Living ..............................(855) 520-1559 ..............www.coyoteoutdoor.com ..............................42 Crossroads Coatings ................................(800) 280-2423 ..............www.crossroadscoatings.com ......................49 DCS by Fisher & Paykel ............................(888) 936-7872 ..............www.dcsappliances.com ..............................33 Delta Heat/Twin Eagles ............................(800) 789-2206 ..............www.deltaheat.com ......................................45 Duraflame..................................................(209) 461-6600 ..............www.duraflame.com ....................................75 Elmira Stove Works ..................................(800) 295-8498 ..............www.elmirastoveworks.com..........................70 Empire Comfort Systems ..........................(800) 851-3153 ..............www.empirecomfort.com ..............................31 EuroKera ..................................................(864) 963-8082 ..............www.eurokera.com/pyro ..............................59 European Home........................................(781) 324-8383 ..............www.europeanhome.com ............................53 Forshaw/Exterus ......................................(800) FORSHAW ............www.forshaws.com ......................................87 Gensun Casual Living ..............................(866) 964-4468 ..............www.gensuncasual.com ..............................13 Glen Raven/Sunbrella................................(336) 221-2211 ..............www.sunbrella.com ........................................2 Golden Blount ..........................................(800) 833-1139 ..............www.goldenblountinc.com ............................83 The HammockSource ..............................(800) 334-1078 ..............www.thehammocksource.com......................68 Hargrove Manufacturing............................(800) 725-4166 ..............www.hargrovegaslogs.com ..........................76 Hearth Products Controls..........................(877) 433-7001 ..............www.hpcfire.com ..........................................51 HearthDistribution.com..............................(360) 314-2012 ..............www.hearthdistribution.com ..........................47 Infratech ....................................................(800) 421-9455 ..............www.infratech-usa.com ................................65

Bull Outdoor Products....................................................................................62, 68 California Outdoor Concepts ..........................................................................62, 66 The Companion Group ..................................................................................65, 66 Country Lane Gazebos ..................................................................................60, 66 Coyote Outdoor Living ..................................................................................60, 65 Crossroads Coatings......................................................................................64, 67 DCS by Fisher & Paykel..................................................................................66, 70 Delta Heat/Twin Eagles ..................................................................................70, 72 Duraflame ......................................................................................................65, 66 Elmira Stove Works ........................................................................................72, 74 Empire Comfort Systems................................................................................72, 74 EuroKera ........................................................................................................74, 76 European Home ............................................................................................68, 76 Forshaw/Exterus ............................................................................................72, 74 Gensun Casual Living ....................................................................................77, 78 Glen Raven/Sunbrella ....................................................................................74, 80 Golden Blount ................................................................................................65, 72 The HammockSource ....................................................................................80, 84 Hargrove Manufacturing ................................................................................74, 83 Hearth Products Controls ..............................................................................72, 85 HearthDistribution.com ..................................................................................77, 84

Innovative Hearth Products ......................(800) 655-2008 ..............www.astria.us.com ........................................23

Infratech ........................................................................................................77, 83

International Market Centers/ Las Vegas Market ..................................(702) 599-8113 ..............www.imcenters.com......................................69

Innovative Hearth Products ............................................................................77, 78

Kozy Heat ................................................(800) 253-4904 ..............www.kozyheat.com ......................................55 Kuma Stoves ............................................(888) 714-5294 ..............www.kumastoves.com ..................................85 Looft Industries ........................................(855) 90-LOOFT ..............www.looftlighter.com ....................................43 M&G DuraVent ..........................................(800) 835-4429 ..............www.duravent.com ................................64, 77 Miles Industries/Valor Fireplaces................(800) 468-2567 ..............www.valorfireplaces.com ................................3 MLW Stone ..............................................(800) 477-7665 ..............www.mlwstone.com......................................87 Modern Flames ........................................(877) 246-9353 ..............www.modernflames.com ..............................89 Modern Home Products ..........................(888) 781-4657 ..............www.mhpgrills.com ......................................67 Napoleon Products ..................................(800) 461-5581 ..............www.napoleonfireplaces.com..........................7 NorthCape ................................................(708) 563-2890 ..............www.northcapeinternational.com ....................9 Onward Manufacturing..............................(800) 245-5138 ..............www.broilkingbbq.com..................................79 Pacific Energy Fireplace Products ............(888) 223-0088 ..............www.pacificenergy.net ..................................19 Regency Fireplace Products ....................(800) 442-7432 ..............www.regency-fire.com ..................................21 RH Peterson ............................................(800) 332-3973 ..............www.rhpeterson.com ....................................50 Saber Grills................................................(888) 947-2237 ..............www.sabergrills.com ....................................96 SCHOTT ROBAX ......................................(502) 657-4417 ..............www.us.schott.com/hometech......................63 Selkirk Corp. ............................................(800) 992-8368 ..............www.selkirkcorp.com ....................................95

Kozy Heat ......................................................................................................78, 85 Kuma Stoves..................................................................................................60, 82 Looft Industries ..............................................................................................60, 76 M&G DuraVent ..................................................................................80, 85, 87, 88 Miles Industries/Valor Fireplaces ....................................................................85, 90 MLW Stone ..........................................................................................................68 Modern Flames ..............................................................................................78, 90 Modern Home Products ................................................................................80, 87 Napoleon Products ........................................................................................82, 88 NorthCape......................................................................................................60, 82 Onward Manufacturing ..................................................................................82, 86 Pacific Energy Fireplace Products ..................................................................78, 84 Regency Fireplace Products ..........................................................................85, 87 RH Peterson ..................................................................................................78, 84 Saber Grills ....................................................................................................62, 66 SCHOTT ROBAX............................................................................................80, 90 Selkirk Corp. ..................................................................................................82, 86

Summerset Professional Grills ..................(800) 966-8126 ..............www.summersetgrills.com ............................27

Summerset Professional Grills ........................................................................83, 88

Supreme Fireplace ....................................(877) 593-4722 ..............www.supremem.com ....................................71

Supreme Fireplace..........................................................................................86, 88

Swiss Grill..................................................(949) 754-3006 ..............www.swissgrills.com......................................11

Swiss Grill ......................................................................................................86, 88

Travis Industries ........................................(800) 654-1177 ..............www.da-vincifireplaces.com ..........................73

Travis Industries..............................................................................................86, 88

Twin-Star/ClassicFlame ............................(866) 661-1218 ..............www.twinstarhome.com................................61

Twin-Star/ClassicFlame ..................................................................................86, 90

Vermont Castings Group ..........................(800) 867-0454 ..............www.vermontcastings.com ..........................29

Vermont Castings Group ................................................................................84, 90

Weilburger Coatings..................................(404) 219-2794 ..............www.senotherm.us........................................39

Weilburger Coatings ......................................................................................77, 80

Patio & Hearth Products Report (ISSN 1939-6929) is published bimonthly by Peninsula Media, 21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 700, Torrance, CA 90503. US Postage Paid at Lebanon Junction, KY 40150. January/February 2015, Vol. 10, No. 1 ÂŠ 2015 Peninsula Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Peninsula Media, 21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 700, Torrance, CA 90503-5514, patioandhearth@halldata.com, phone: (847) 763-9261. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the materials presented in Patio & Hearth Products Report, they are not responsible for the correctness of the information and/or opinions expressed.

Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2015

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