Patio and Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

HOMECREST

SUPREME FIREPLACE

BIG GREEN EGG

www.patioandhearthproductsreport.com

GENSUN CASUAL LIVING

Circle Reader Service No. 2

Circle Reader Service No. 3

CONTENTS

J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 1 4 Vo l u m e 9 , N u m b e r 4

70

82 32

OUTDOOR GRILLING – GRILLING UP SALES

58

Powerhouse retailer Evenings Delight stays profitable by following its credo: Give the customers what they want.

By Cheryl Dangel Bartolini

Innovative cooking products were recently added to Wittus–Fire by Design’s offerings.

By Cherise Forno

60

85 FEATURES 8

24

HEARTH RETAILER PROFILE – A ONE-OF-A-KIND SHOP A lovely fireplace store in scenic Monterey, California, is known for its eclectic inventory of hearth-room decor.

By Sharon Sanders

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

The manufacturer of the original kamado cooker shares its views on the competition.

By Greg Thompson

AS I SEE IT – PLUSH AND PROFITABLE

44

MY TURN – DRIVING GROWTH Cal Flame is a leader in the outdoorkitchen industry because of its dedication to product development and to meeting consumer demand. By Sharon Sanders

78 IN EVERY ISSUE 6

48

PRODUCT INNOVATION – ALL AGLOW Travis Industries is a product-focused company with plans to introduce 10 new hearth products each year.

By Cheryl Dangel Bartolini

52

Industry leader Lloyd Flanders uses social media to reach younger consumers.

By Kimberly Rodgers

56

STILL CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ Editor’s Message

10

INDUSTRY NEWS

64

ICFA PREVIEW SHOW ROUNDUP

68

WHAT’S NEW: 6 HOT PRODUCTS TO SELL NOW

70

PRODUCT PROFILES

90

PRODUCT PROFILES DIRECTORY

90

AD INDEX

CORPORATE PROFILE – ROBUST GROWTH

INSIGHT – COMFORT IN STYLE Paradise Cushions by FiberBuilt expands its cushion line as customers shop for products that create relaxing backyard retreats. By Cherise Forno

ON THE COVER | GRAND TERRACE PADDED SLING BY GENSUN CASUAL LIVING; WWW.GENSUNCASUAL.COM

4

LAST WORD – AN EGG’S-EYE VIEW

Larry Mahurter, director of marketing and advertising for Couristan, describes the latest consumer preferences in outdoor rugs. By Sharon Sanders

MARKETING MANEUVERS – KNOW THY CUSTOMER Patio Comfort’s first-time customers transition into repeat customers as they upgrade their outdoor spaces, over the years. By Sharon Sanders

28

40

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT – OUTDOORS OR INDOORS The trend of using outdoor fabrics for indoor applications gains momentum as consumers seek high-performance fabrics for use inside their homes.

By Cheryl Dangel Bartolini

SHOWROOM SHOWCASE – PLANNING FOR SUCCESS The Chair King Backyard Store has grown into one of the largest U.S. specialty-store chains because of its clever expansion strategy. By Kimberly Rodgers

GUEST EDITORIAL – LOOKING BACK The outgoing executive director of the International Casual Furnishings Association summarizes some of the group’s recent accomplishments.

By Joe Logan

16

36

INSIGHT – WHAT’S COOKING AT WITTUS?

Follow us on Twitter: @patiohearth www.Facebook.com/PatioHearthProductsReport

ĥ $ * , 2 ) , 5 ( 3 , 7 6 ĥ ®

&6$ &(57,),(' for the

+,*+(67 67$1'$5'6

Every Agio fire pit is CSA certified, giving your customers the confidence to enjoy the beauty and enduring ambience of an outdoor fire year round.

Rigorously tested for quality and safety, fire pits bearing the CSA certification mark give your product an edge over competitors’. Trust Agio for innovation, quality and safety you and your consumers demand.

Life Begins Outdoors.™ For more information on Agio outdoor gas fire pits, visit www.agio-usa.com today.

Agio is the registered trademark of Agio International Company, Ltd.

Circle Reader Service No. 5

EDITOR’S MESSAGE

still california dreamin’ S

everal years ago, Southern California was a fiscal mess. When the housing bubble burst, Southern California was hit exceptionally hard, resulting in major unemployment, the complete destruction of its construction industry, reduced house prices, and a weak economy overall. Today, some people who reside outside of California still think that, compared with the rest of the United States (and even with Northern California), Southern California is this country’s Greece. This is completely untrue. The economy in the land of sun-kissed beaches and palm trees is actually in robust recovery mode— just ask any successful specialty retailer.

According to Moody’s Analytics, California currently leads all states in job gains. One could argue that a state that lost the most jobs during the recession (as California did) would experience the greatest gains as it climbs out of the hole, but studying the type of growth that’s occurring reveals that the housing sector’s expansion is faster here than it is in other regions. In Orange County, the unemployment rate stands at 5%. This compares with an unadjusted unemployment rate of 7.3% for California and 6.3% for the nation (during the same period).

One of every eight new jobs created in California since the start of 2013 is in construction. In Orange County, construction accounted for nearly a third of all new jobs. The Associated General Contractors of America reported, last month, that Los Angeles and Orange counties ranked first and third among U.S. metro areas (in April) in creating new construction jobs.

House prices, in most regions of Southern California, have increased dramatically over the past couple of years. My unimpressive tract home in Huntington Beach would fetch at least $100,000 more this summer than it would have last summer. Five of my neighbors sold houses, during the past year, for more than the asking price—after receiving multiple bids.

The average price of a new KB Home® ordered in California during the three months that ended May 31, 2014, was $591,000—up

6

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

18% from a year earlier—and homebuyers are lining up to buy these houses. Southern California is also drawing a large amount of Chinese investment, as China’s real-estate bubble continues to deflate and investors seek safe havens for their money. Irvine, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are the three largest housing markets for Chinese buyers of U.S. real estate.

It’s true that Anaheim Patio & Fireside—a long-standing retailer in Orange County—has closed, but one of its shuttered stores was replaced by an exciting new business: Backyard Expressions (Huntington Beach). It has experienced strong sales since it opened its doors on Father’s Day, under the ownership of Jim Montgomery (a 42-year veteran of the casualfurniture/grill/fireplace industry) and his daughter, Angela Rolish. Many other Southern California retailers are thriving as well; they include Fireplace & Patio Trends (Orange); Roger’s Gardens (Corona del Mar); Patioworld (Fountain Valley, Pasadena, Thousand Oaks, and Woodland Hills); and Today’s Patio (San Diego).

The hip South Coast Collection (Costa Mesa) houses locally owned home-products businesses and has grown steadily; high-end manufacturer Brown Jordan opened its first direct-toconsumer showroom there, a year ago.

Furthermore, Wilshire Fireplace hasn’t closed its doors, as some rumors in the fireplace industry implied. With a new ownership structure, Wilshire & Okell’s Fireplace Shops is a healthy six-store enterprise with strong Yelp reviews.

Even the dated and dowdy Del Amo Fashion Center (Torrance)—located near the Patio & Hearth Products Report offices—is in the middle of a $200 million renovation that includes a new Nordstrom as an anchor store. It’s true that regulatory actions in California have had an impact on the sale of hearth products, but the drought and unusually warm weather during the past few years are also having huge effects on fireplace sales in Southern California.

Still, many Southern Californians who aren’t buying fireplaces are spending oodles on well-

appointed outdoor kitchens, beautiful fire tables, and plush furniture collections. The key to being successful as a specialty retailer, in Southern California, is being flexible enough to understand completely what types of products customers want to buy. Selling a Sub-Zero refrigerator in the Arctic is probably as unlikely as selling a wood-burning fireplace in Southern California.

I have lived in Southern California for 26 years, after living in Northern California for several years (and in the Midwest for more than two decades). I brought up a family here, while muddling through two recessions. I am optimistic about where things are going with our local economy. I am also confident that Southern California specialty retailers who sell outdoor-living and hearth products should continue to do well, as long as they have the ability to adapt to a changing marketplace.

Then again, that’s always a retail store’s recipe for success, regardless of its location.

Carol Daus cdauswrite@socal.rr.com

Circle Reader Service No. 7

GUEST EDITORIAL

PUBLISHER Tony Ramos tramos@peninsula-media.com

LOOKING BACK

EDITOR Carol Daus cdauswrite@socal.rr.com

by JOE LOGAN

Joe Logan

It is with mixed emotions that I am stepping down as executive director of the International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA) in late July.

Over the past 15 years of my 24-year career with the trade association for home-furnishings manufacturers, importers, and suppliers to the industry, it has been my pleasure to make the world of outdoor living my primary focus.

Thanks to the dedication of outstanding volunteer leaders, ICFA not only has grown, but has been thriving significantly. When I took over the 40–year-old Summer and Casual Furniture Manufacturers Association (SCFMA) in 1999, the organization had fewer than 100 members and was concentrating on the needs of its domestic manufacturing members. As consumers’ love affair with their outdoor spaces began to surge a decade ago, however, the SCFMA took the opportunity, in 2008, to rebrand itself as ICFA—and to make its programs, services, and participation explode.

Certainly, one of the cornerstones of our industry is the Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™, an annual event sponsored by ICFA. For four days each mid-September, everyone involved in the outdoor-living category—manufacturers, importers, retailers, sales representatives, suppliers,

8

and more—gathers to showcase new products, fabrics, and merchandising concepts. In addition, the show has provided an ample forum for offering educational seminars; saluting the best products, in the Design Excellence Awards; identifying the most outstanding retail operations, with the Apollo Awards; and recognizing exceptional performance by a sales representative.

In recent years, ICFA also moved to enhance the professional opportunities offered during Casual Market; this activity included the debut of round-table discussions held on the Monday afternoon prior to the opening of the event. Attendees engaged in three sessions of conversation related to business strategies and problem solving, capped afterward by a summary of best practices. I was quite impressed by the candid exchange as participants covered a wide range of topics, and I am pleased that the event is back (by popular demand) and is on the agenda for Monday afternoon (September 15).

Indeed, the drive to develop the finest professionals among our members has fueled the creation of a diverse menu of educational programs. Retail-sales training has been a meaningful priority for our group since its earliest days. Today, the ICFA Sales Training Certificate Program guides retail associates through a three-tier skill-building curriculum, complete with testing at the conclusion of each level and the awarding of a certificate and lapel pin upon completion.

In addition, ICFA has developed a series of webinars, over more than four years, on a variety of timely topics. Each is archived on our website (www.icfanet.org) for members to use at their personal convenience. This online continuing-education center is ideal for teaching the newly hired and/or groups of employees during in-store training sessions.

ICFA has long been committed to providing a full range of assistance— designed to help boost the success of their operations—to its member

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

companies. The current menu of services includes: • a credit-card program, negotiated using the combined volume of ICFA’s member companies to produce the lowest possible processing rates; • a group discount on payroll processing, complete with tax services and the ability to produce a spectrum of reports; • a mystery-shopper program that measures the consumer experience in retail settings and identifies opportunities for management to improve company procedures and heighten performance; • an in-store consumer-financing program for retailers (with excellent rates); and • a fuel-card program that delivers reduced fuel costs at thousands of truck stops nationwide—with no transaction fees.

There is no question that the very essence of ICFA was greatly enhanced by the decision to expand association membership to all interested parties catering to the world of outdoor furnishings. Today, members include manufacturers and importers, retailers, sales representatives, designers, suppliers to the industry, and media associate members. To be sure, the inclusive partnership of all of these stakeholders has provided steadfast support under the ICFA umbrella.

I take pride in knowing that ICFA is a strong, growing organization guided by skilled, caring volunteers who have a keen eye on what will be best for the association in the future. Without any doubt, it was their constant support and encouragement that allowed me to perform my duties and to have such a satisfying career experience.

On a personal level, I have enjoyed working with all of the members of our industry and will take away special memories of our time together. I wish every one of you the very best in all of your future endeavors.

ART DIRECTOR Cassandra Estes cassestes1968@gmail.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kris Kyes kris@peninsula-media.com STAFF WRITERS Cheryl Dangel Bartolini Jesse Burkhart Cherise Forno Kimberly Rodgers Sharon Sanders Greg Thompson SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Greg Thompson CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Alyssa Sands EDITOR 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 Subscribe online: www.peninsula-media.com/subscribe.html

Joe Logan is executive director of the International Casual Furnishings Association (High Point, North Carolina).

Email: patioandhearth@halldata.com Phone: (847) 763-9261

Award-Winning Islands, Fireplaces, Firepits & Barbecues

Aw 2014 ard Ve Wi sta nne r!

4

Cal FlameŽ Master Chef Outdoor HPB Island $PELDQFH DQG VHUHQLW\ FRXSOHG ZLWK ÀDLU DQG design are elements that can not only turn a backyard and patio into a utopian retreat from the world, but a place to celebrate. The Master Chef Outdoor Hearth Patio & Barbecue Island is a unique blend of sophisticated style and innovative design that encompasses the idea – home is where the hearth is. From entertaining guests to relaxing at home, transforming any backyard into the ultimate home resort destination has never been easier. With the Master Chef Island, the grilling enthusiast can cook, cool, store and wow the neighbors with countless hours of entertainment.

0ROGRAMMABLE -ETAL &RAME #OMMERCIAL 'RADE (ARDIBACKER #ERAMIC 4ILE ,%$ 3URFACE ,IGHTS

5NDER #OUNTER ,IGHTS

)NTEGRATED 3OUND 3YSTEM

7EEPING 7ALLS

,UMINOUS v &IRE 0IT

2ECESSED 7ALL -OUNTED &IREPLACE

" ! 2 " % # 5 % ) 3 , ! . $ 3 s " ! 2 " % # 5 % # ! 24 3 s " ! 2 " % # 5 % ( ! 2 $ 7! 2 % s & ) 2 % 0 , ! # % 3 s & ) 2 % 0 ) 4 3

About the Vesta Awards

'RILL ,IGHT

2OTISSERIE "URNER

0 'RIDDLE 4RAY

0 'RILL #OVER

0 3MOKE 4RAY

#AST 3TAINLESS 3TEEL "URNERS

4HE 6ESTA !WARDS PROGRAM WAS CREATED IN

BY THE (EARTH (OME -AGAZINE TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR MANUFACTURERS FOR THEIR INNOVATION IN PRODUCT DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY #AL &LAME HAS ALSO BEEN AWARDED FOR MULTIPLE ITEMS IN SEVERAL CATEGORIES

P Series P5 Burner Grill The Cal Flame P Series P5 Grill offers the very best in technology and innovation, when your special occasion calls for a very special grill. The P5 Burner Grill (75,000 BTU) provides a wide variety of standard features such as: Grill Lights, Rotisserie Burner, Griddle, Smoke Tray, Cast Stainless Steel Burners and Grill Cover. The Cal Flame P Series P5 Grill provides the ultimate grilling experience.

4O BECOME AN AUTHORIZED #AL &LAME $EALER CONTACT US AT 800-CAL-SPAS | WWW.CALFLAMEBBQ.COM %AST .INTH 3TREET 0OMONA #!

2226-14 03-10-14

Circle Reader Service No. 9

INDUSTRY NEWS Alfresco Home and Garth Living Strengthen Their Alliance Outdoor-living manufacturer Alfresco Home LLC has expanded its partnership with Garth Living of Australia, one of the world’s leading gas-grill manufacturers. Alfresco Home is proud to be the exclusive introducer, to the North American market, of Fervor™—a brand of Australian-inspired gas grills engineered for superior performance and designed for ease of use.

The Fervor range of products includes five models (with three to six burners) that feature Garth’s patented GrillSmart Technology™, Insultouch hood, and tempered-glass viewing windows, among many other features. A full line of Fervor accessories will also accompany the barbecue range. Designed by the experts at Garth, in coordination with the Alfresco Home development team, Fervor captures the best of the Australian outdoor lifestyle in its collection of high-quality barbecues that emphasize healthy cooking and an easy grilling experience.

Joseph Cilio is CEO and president of Alfresco Home, a manufacturer of casual furniture and garden accents; Alfresco Home is also the exclusive North American distributor of Fornetto™ and Fervor. He says, “Alfresco Home is proud to bring these high-performance grills, after years of development, to independent retailers throughout North America.

Alfresco Home now offers the Fervor brand of Australian gas grills and accessories

Partnering very successfully with Garth on the Fornetto (the natural-fuel, dual-purpose oven and smoker) gave us total confidence in developing Fervor with Gavin Hill and his team.”

The project’s development has drawn on 40 years of firsthand experience in gas-grill manufacturing, including the production of hundreds of thousands of grills per year. Cilio says, “The Fervor project has been thought about for a long time and comes with great care and precision to our market. It is the complete package for our customers and the end consumer.”

Grilling at home on a Fervor grill creates high-

STEVEN RAICHLEN COOKS ON A TWIN EAGLES GRILL AT BARBECUE UNIVERSITY Twin Eagles has become the latest grill to join the jaw-dropping collection of more than three dozen smokers, grills, and wood-burning ovens at Barbecue University™, the acclaimed cooking school run by Steven Raichlen at The Steven Raichlen teaches Barbecue University students outdoorBroadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado. cooking techniques using a Twin Eagles gas grill Founded in 2000, Barbecue University offers consumers an intensive three-day course on the art of live-fire cooking. Students come from all over the world—literally—to grill, dine, and relax at The Broadmoor, a five-star, five-diamond resort in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Steven Raichlen is a multiple-award–winning author, journalist, and television host. His best-selling “Barbecue! Bible” cookbook series—translated into 17 languages—has sold more than 5 million copies worldwide. His “Primal Grill® With Steven Raichlen” and “Barbecue University® With Steven Raichlen” television series on PBS have revolutionized how North Americans grill.

Twin Eagles premium grills feature unique styling and are constructed to exacting standards. The performance of the grilling system is what separates Twin Eagles from other premium grill brands. For more information on the full line of Twin Eagles products, visit TwinEaglesBBQ.com.

10

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

quality restaurant food—something that very few brands, worldwide, can claim. Fervor grills have grates made of matte, enameled cast iron and use patented GrillSmart Technology for healthy, simple, and clean grilling. Anthony Cilio, executive vice president of Alfresco Home, adds, “Fervor grills are a tremendous value, with innovative style, superior functionality, and exceptional performance. Any retailer would be pleased to offer the consumer this quality product.”

Rick Baker, outdoor gourmet manager for Alfresco Home, says, “Fervor is a smart grill. It is not just another grill on the market. The Fervor barbecue offers functionality and ease of use, and it is very intuitive about the grilling needs of consumers today. The flavor gets back into your food with our cooking surface and grill design. Extremely significant to its position, too, is the opportunity for retailers to make a strong profit on a line of grills only sold to the independent marketplace.

That should be reason enough to bring Fervor onto the retail floor for the 2015 season.”

A soft launch of Fervor was held in June (to rave reviews), and two models were featured in the Alfresco Home showroom at the ICFA Preview Show™. Other models will continue to be on display at Alfresco Home’s main showroom (outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania).

The Companion Group Offers Employees Stock-ownership Plan After an involved planning stage, The Companion Group (TCG) has adopted an employee stock-ownership plan (ESOP), effective July 1, 2014. Over half of TCG’s employees have been with the company for 10 years or more, and the company believes that the move to align employees’ actions and attitudes with the principles of ownership is in the best interests of the future success of the company.

According to Chuck Adams, CEO, TCG’s intention is to add another source of retirement income to standard employee benefits. He says, “We chose an ESOP program to diversify holdings and to share the success of the company with the employees. I want to extend special thanks to all of our employees and customers, past and present.”

Founded in 1984 (in a small garage in Berkeley, California), TCG began with just two people—making chimney starters, one at a time, by hand. Today, TCG has evolved into a family of brands, with more than 50 employees providing design and manufactur-

ing services for retail customers worldwide.

The company is known throughout the industry for its product innovation, and it offers thousands of active products and holds more than 60 patents (with more pending). Over the years, TCG has experienced tremendous growth, and one of the biggest factors in this success is its loyal employees. This company-ownership structure allows employees to participate with an entrepreneurial spirit and encourages enthusiasm for exceeding customer expectations. This level of performance and attention could not be accomplished without customer support.

Agio-USA Promotes Barb Hunter to Vice President, National Accounts Agio-USA recently promoted Barb Hunter to the position of vice president, national accounts.

Bob Gaylord, president of Agio-USA, says, “Barb has successfully worked with countless retailers, and her accomplishments Barb Hunter have truly been outstanding. In recent years, Barb has headed our company’s efforts with some of our largest national accounts.”

Hunter says, “Throughout my career, I’ve admired Agio-USA for being a leader in outdoor furniture. Working with Agio for the past 10 years in various retail channels—specialty, mass, and clubs—has been an incredible experience and provided tremendous growth opportunities. This new position allows Agio-USA to provide the highest level of value to our customers.”

An industry veteran, Hunter has more than 35 years’ experience in the outdoor sector, working with companies such as Sunbeam Outdoor Products and Wellington Home Products. She will continue to focus on Sam’s Club and Walmart Corp. (domestic and international divisions). Hunter will work, as before, in the Agio-USA office in Gallatin, Tennessee.

Outside work, Hunter enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with her grandchildren. She is also passionate about serving on the board of the Kristen Kay Hunter Memorial Scholarship Foundation. This nonprofit organization was created in 2009 in memory of Hunter’s 11–year-old granddaughter, who died of complications of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection. The foundation awards scholarships to high-school seniors pursuing careers in education.

19,000–square-foot gallery in Chicago, Illinois.

Bob Gaylord, president of Agio-USA, says, “This new showroom will help us reach an incremental retailer base that does not attend category-specific shows. Las Vegas Market attracts the traditional-furniture and lifestyle stores and the big-box, catalog, and Internet retailers, which aligns with our future growth plans. We currently show in High Point, North Carolina, and at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart to target these channels, but the Las Vegas Market will allow us to grow our business even further.”

Craig Staack, vice president of home-furnishings leasing for International Market Centers (IMC), says, “Having an industry leader like Agio at the Las Vegas Market reinforces our strategy of growing the casualfurniture offering here and reassures us that the timing is perfect for the industry’s needs. More and more traditional-furniture retailers are recognizing the benefit of adding outdoor collections to their product

mixes, and this will allow those buyers to fulfill their buying needs at one market, rather than adding another buying trip to their schedules.”

In July 2015, Las Vegas Market will launch 250,000 square feet of permanent-showroom and temporary-exhibit space devoted solely to the casual/outdoor category. “With the timing of our summer market lining up perfectly with the sales cycle of this growing segment, we wanted to set our partners up for success and launch these new floors when we were able to make the most positive impact. We’re committed, both organizationally and financially, to the success of our partners, and we want to give them a platform for future growth,” Staack says.

Andy Sokol, vice president of sales for Agio-USA, adds, “Since we began our relationship with IMC in High Point a few years ago, we have been impressed with its professional approach to its tenants and market events. IMC knows how to bring buyers to mar-

Defining the

outdoor grilling and comfort heat experience since 1966

Agio Signs Major Las Vegas Lease Outdoor-furniture manufacturer Agio International has signed a long-term lease with Las Vegas Market™. Starting in July 2015, Agio will anchor the 12th floor of building C (in a 22,000–square-foot showroom) as part of the market’s casual-furnishings category launch. The display space will feature the same collections as Agio’s

AEI Corporation 2641 Du Bridge Ave., Irvine, CA 92606 949-474-3070 www.aeicorporation.com

Circle Reader Service No. 11

July/August 2014 Patio & Hearth Products Report

11

INDUSTRYNEWS ket and to make their shopping experience something to look forward to; we are excited to have the opportunity to work with IMC and to bring the casual-furniture industry to another level, as the demand for outdoor-furniture continues to grow.”

Jim Levine Named Vice President of Surya Outdoor Surya has appointed Jim Levine to the newly created role of vice president of Surya Outdoor. Levine is a veteran of the casual-furniture industry, where he has spent the past 32 years overseeing business operations, sales/marketing, supply-chain management, and product design for a variety of outdoor-product lines.

In his new role, Levine will be responsible for expanding Surya’s outdoor-product offerings while also building and overseeing a sales force focused specifically on retailers in the outdoor-products category. Surya’s outdoor lines currently include rugs, pillows, and poufs, with ceramics, hurricane lamps, tabletop products, outdoor mirrors, and outdoor lighting set to debut at the 2014 Chicago

International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™ in September.

Levine was previously owner and CEO of Porch & Patio, a casual-furniture store that he grew from a single retail location into a seven-store chain, and he also served as vice president at Robb & Stucky Patio, where he managed retail operations. He most recently headed importing and manufacturing for a startup outdoor-furnishings company. Levine has received and/or been nominated for the Apollo Award, the highest award given to a casual-furniture retailer, five times.

Satya Tiwari, president of Surya, says, “Under Jim’s leadership, we look forward to growing our range of fashion-forward outdoor offerings significantly to support our goal of becoming the premier provider of coordinating accessories for the outdoor-living segment. Jim’s wealth of experience in the outdoor industry—combined with our ability to bring to market, quickly, products for a variety of lifestyles and budgets and our strong focus on service—will be instrumental in expanding our presence in this valuable segment, moving forward. We are excited to welcome

Jim to the Surya team.” Levine will be based in Florida and will report to Seth King, vice president of sales.

Jay Weber Joins NorthCape As National Account Manager Jay Weber, a 25-year veteran of the outdoor-furniture industry, has joined NorthCape International as its national account manager. In this role, he will supervise special projects, including the debut of teak, which was introduced at the 2014 ICFA Preview Show™.

Tom Murray, president of NorthCape, says, “We’re excited that Jay is joining the team. His knowledge and experience in the industry will be a big asset as we expand our product line. The addition of teak (and reclaimed teak) is an exciting opportunity for NorthCape, and I’m looking forward to our customers’ response to the new product.”

A leader in the outdoor-furniture industry, NorthCape is dedicated to providing customers with high-quality, stylish, comfortable furniture at an

SHADEMAKER INTRODUCES NEW ASTRAL-TC AND POLARIS TO 2014 COLLECTIONS Shademaker, the premier line of commercial umbrellas for restaurants, resorts, country clubs, and highend residential designers, has added its newest designs, the Astral-TC and the Polaris, to its 2014 collections. Each design offers advanced functionality in multiple sizes.

Jeff B. Dorough, vice president of sales and marketing for The Shademaker Orion cantilever umbrella Shademaker USA, says, “The Astral-TC is ideal for commercial applications, including resorts or hospitality venues where versatility and multiple-size models are desired. With the crank lift and telescoping-mast design, the Astral-TC is able to provide large shade and ease of closure over high-dining, bistro, and cafe seating.”

The side-post Polaris is being introduced in four sizes: squares of 9 feet 9 inches, 11 feet 5 inches, and 13 feet 1 inch and a rectangle of 9 feet 9 inches by 13 feet 1 inch. All Polaris models provide 360-degree shade rotation and infinite tilt capabilities. The Astral-TC is being introduced in four sizes (squares of 11 feet 5 inches, 13 feet 1 inch, and 16 feet 4 inches and an octagon of 16 feet 4 inches). The center-post umbrella’s capabilities include easy crank lifting and a telescopic mast. The Astral-TC also features a superior silver anodized-aluminum finish for the ultimate in durability.

“The hospitality/contract marketplace is realizing the benefits of quality architectural shade for outdoor spaces,” Dorough says. “With these introductions, options for shade planning can be customized to these areas. In each style, square designs can be grouped to provide continuous shade for outdoor-dining or -leisure areas.”

Constructed of a superior aluminum alloy, Shademaker umbrellas, with a silver anodized finish, provide the greater durability and resistance to tarnishing, scratching, and corrosion that commercial applications require. Multiple installation options are available for both the Astral-TC and the Polaris.

12

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

affordable price. NorthCape’s five distribution centers help to minimize freight rates and shipping times for dealers, and two domestic cushionmanufacturing facilities facilitate the speedy delivery of quick-ship and made-to-order cushions.

Pawleys Island Hammocks Celebrates Major Milestone Celebrating 125 years in business, Pawleys Island® Hammocks is introducing, for 2015, a line of handsome, virtually maintenance-free, all-weather porch furni-

The Pawleys Island Durawood Sunrise Adirondack chair

ture inspired by life in the Lowcountry South. Crafted of solid Durawood™ high-density–polyethylene lumber manufactured from recycled plastic milk jugs, each of the casual chairs, rockers, footstools, tables, and swings in the new furniture line's three collections also features marine-grade, rust-resistant 316 stainless-steel hardware and uncommonly secure joint connections, making this among the most stable outdoor furniture available today.

Every piece of furniture is available in multiple lumber colors, from hues that closely resemble wood to the eyepopping brights so popular on beachfront porches in Pawleys Island, South Carolina. The Pawleys Island Coastal collection includes chairs, rockers, and swings with seats and seat backs of handwoven DuraCord® rope (in eight colors) or plump, interwoven cushions of Sunbrella® fabric (in three colors/patterns), with plush centers of nonabsorbent, resilient polyester-hollowfill fiber. Both DuraCord and Sunbrella are exceptionally weather hardy and colorfast, in addition to being cottony soft.

Give them shade. And so much more.

A Solair速 retractable awning will provide your customers with much more than shade from the sun.

It completes an outdoor space in ways they never imagined. And it can add to your sales in ways you never imagined. Visit solair.com/signup to learn how to become an authorized Solair retailer.

Join us at Casual Market Chicago: Space 7-7106 息2014. SOLAIR速 AND SUNBRELLA速 ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF GLEN RAVEN, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Circle Reader Service No. 13

INDUSTRYNEWS Electronics-industry Marketing Veteran Joins Soundcast Soundcast, developer and manufacturer of high-performance outdoor music systems, has added Tom Dixon to its leadership team. As its new vice president of marketing, Dixon will work closely with Soundcast’s Tom Dixon dealers, distribution partners, sales team, and management to deliver the marketing support needed to increase Soundcast’s brand awareness, growth in retail sales, online channels, and unique strategic partnerships (to enhance channel marketing, promotional programs, advertising strategy, trade shows, media relations, productdevelopment support, market research, and customer-loyalty initiatives).

Dixon, an industry veteran with more than three decades of combined consumer-electronics, professionalaudio, and outdoorentertainment–products marketing experience, says, “I’m very excited to be a part of this great outdoor-audio company in the early stages of the outdoor-entertainment and casual-living phenomena.” With a background that includes strategic-marketing stints at

Pioneer Corp., DTS Inc., and SunBriteTV, Dixon has been instrumental in the marketing launches of DVD, high-definition plasma television, Blu-Ray, and (most recently) outdoor television.

Dixon says, “The sky’s the limit, with this product. With the ability to deliver a high-performance audio experience anywhere and any time, and with the convenience of portable, weatherresistant wireless technologies, Soundcast products are unique in the industry.” The company intends to make full use of coordinated promotional opportunities “with a number of key partners and brands—to get this incredible value proposition out in front of consumers,” he adds.

M&G DuraVent Promotes Karen Galaise to Regional Sales Manager for Quebec M&G DuraVent and Security Chimneys promoted Karen Galaise to the position of regional sales manager for the newly created Quebec region.

Galaise will oversee sales of both M&G DuraVent and Security Chimneys products in the province of Quebec and the Ottawa metropolitan area.

Reporting to Geoff Wilcox, Canadian national sales manager, Galaise will work directly with customers in the hearth and HVAC and plumbing, heating, and cooling mar-

JENSEN LEISURE FURNITURE OPENS NEW OFFICE AND WAREHOUSE Jensen Leisure Furniture has opened a new administration office and warehouse in Richmond (Henrico), Virginia.

The new warehouse was fully operational from the start of the 2014 season. With the opening of this new facility, inventories have increased, and Jensen Leisure Furniture’s new office in Richmond (Henrico), Virginia qualified warehouse-staff members have been able to provide better service to customers.

California, office will close this sumThe general manager, finance mer when Janet Wansor, vice presidepartment, and customer-service dent of sales and marketing, relocates department are all located in this new to the Virginia office.

Virginia office. The Riverside,

14

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

kets. In her 25 years with Security Chimneys, Galaise has worked in human resources, administration, and (most recently) customer service. In addition to possessing a strong knowledge of the industry, Galaise is fluent in French and has lived in the Montreal area for most of her life. She currently resides in Repentigny, Quebec, with her husband and two children, and will work from the Security Chimneys office in Laval, Quebec.

Parker James Opens First U.S. Showroom and Zuo Modern Contemporary Expands Showroom Parker James opened its first U.S. stand-alone showroom in Chicago’s Merchandise Mart in time for the ICFA Preview Show™ in July. In addition, Zuo Modern Contemporary opened a new showroom—a space about twice the size of its former space—in the Merchandise Mart.

These companies cross over several product categories (including outdoor furniture, fabrics, lighting, and accessories) and further enhance the casualfurnishings offerings available to attendees of the Preview Show and the Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™.

Harold Hudson, president of Parker James, says, "With the opening of the new showroom, Parker James is excited to have our own identity within the Chicago Merchandise Mart. For the past 10 years, Parker James was displayed inside the Summer Classics showroom, and since our business model is different from [that of ] Summer Classics, we needed to have our own space. The Chicago Merchandise Mart allows us a forum to display our products, and it has assembled a great team to help us achieve that objective.”

Luis Ruesga, CEO of Zuo, says, “It has been clear to us that if we wanted to be part of the casual-furniture industry, we needed to have a presence at the Merchandise Mart, and that is why, four years ago, we exhibited for the first time at the Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market. Our success at the market prompted us to open a perma-

nent showroom the following year; for the Preview Show, we expanded to a premium location on the 15th floor, where we had enough space to show our entire collection. Our goal for this year is to grow by 30%, and we know the only way to reach our goal is by expanding our space. We are very excited about this new opportunity.”

Cal Spas Develops Powerful Dually Pump System Cal Spas, one of the top manufacturers of hot tubs in the nation, has introduced the new, powerful, and energy-efficient Dually™ pump system.

More than 10 years in development, the

The Dually pump system by Cal Spas

revolutionary Dually pump system is larger than most pumps found in spas today. At 48 pounds, this size 56 frame pump is 62% heavier than the size 48 frame pumps found in many spas.

Larger magnets and windings and an internal cooling fan allow this pump to produce an incredible amount of power with minimal heat output, ensuring its efficiency for years to come. Unlike conventional spa pumps that typically produce 160 gallons of water flow per minute, the Dually pump boasts an impressive 280 gallons per minute on high speed and 102 gallons per minute on low speed—all at single-pump levels of electrical consumption and sound.

Casey Loyd, president of Cal Spas, says, “Cal Spas prides itself on being a trailblazer in this industry. Our development team works to create technology that will make our spas stand out from our competitors’ and provide the ultimate in relaxation to our consumers.

Filtration is one of the principal functions of a spa’s pump, which is why the Dually pump system is so impressive. It maintains water clarity and heat levels using 50% less energy and circulates 100% of spa water throughout the entire spa, for the duration of each fil-

tration cycle. This is something our competitors simply can’t do.”

Veranda Classics Launches New Website and Offers Cruise Prize Veranda Classics by Foremost recently launched a new website (www.VerandaClassics.com) to emphasize the capabilities of this specialty retail brand and to introduce the details of its aggressive 2015 initiative. The website was designed to provide quick and complete information to the Veranda Classics client base, along with easy access for retailers looking for a new source for high-end outdoor furniture. As Tim Anderson, Foremost’s executive vice president, explains, “We wanted to tie the launch of the new website to our plan to expand our product offerings and our support capabilities dramatically for 2015.”

Danny Jelley, senior vice president of product design and development (outdoor division), notes, “The powerhouse retailers that we are now positioned to serve are brick-and-mortar stores, as well as stores 100% dedicated to online customers. Our products, policies, and materials are all designed to work in tandem with the dynamic of the Internet to enhance brand awareness and increase sales. Deanne & Wayne & Company, the marketing agency for Veranda Classics, will be responsible for growing the website and designing both traditional and digital materials for our retailers.”

To kick off use of the new site, Veranda Classics will give away a fourday Royal Caribbean cruise gift certificate that can be redeemed for a variety of trips (and is valued at $2,500). To register and to see complete details, visit www.VerandaClassics.com.

Tarantin Appoints William H. Craig as CEO/CFO Thomas A. Tarantin and Richard Tarantin recently announced the promotion of William H. Craig, MBA, CPA, to the position of CEO/CFO of Tarantin Industries Inc. (Freehold, New Jersey). The appointment is part of a larger strategic realignment of executiveleadership positions planned to strengthen the company and support future growth. As part of the move, Richard Tarantin will now oversee sales and marketing efforts as executive vice president of sales and marketing, and Thomas Tarantin will assume the role of executive chair, business development, responsible

for identifying and sourcing new products and developing vendor relationships.

Craig joined Tarantin Industries two years ago, as CFO, and has a proven track record of success at the company.

As CFO, he improved bottom-line performance and efficiencies through excellent financial management, and he also implemented a comprehensive upgrade

FOR

of the company’s computer systems. In his new position, Craig will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of Tarantin Industries and for participating in long-range financial planning and growth strategizing for the expansion of the company.

Tarantin Industries is a specialized wholesaler of high-quality products

SOME, IS

MAINTAINING

ANYTHING

BUT

PATIO LAID

with exceptional customer support. The company operates in 22 states from six distribution facilities. Its business segments—tanks and equipment, technical and engineering solutions, and leisure/lifestyle products—offer a full line of products, including propane and industrial equipment, as well as hearth and barbecue items.

PERFECTION BACK.

When the only thing that truly spoils your customers is an unspoiled outdoor oasis, only the best will do.

MULTI-SURFACE CLEANER™ safely removes most difficult stains and rinses residue free, allowing protectants to properly cure at the surface.

FABRIC GUARD™ restores water repellency to factory-new levels to keep equipment dry and prevent molding. Provides strong resistance against soiling.

AEROSPACE PROTECTANT,™ with broad-spectrum UV blockers, prevents fading, cracking and embrittlement. No other protects as powerfully or lasts as long.

W E ’ V E

G O T

Y O U R

N U M B E R™

303products.com Recommended By:

Sunbrella ® is a registered trademark of Glen Raven, Inc.

Circle Reader Service No. 15

July/August 2014 Patio & Hearth Products Report

15

SPOTLIGHT

OUTDOORS OR INDOORS As consumers seek high-performance textiles for indoor use, the term outdoor fabric could become obsolete.

by CHERYL DANGEL BARTOLINI

It used to be that the makers of outdoor fabrics were called outdoor-fabric manufacturers. Today, that is not entirely accurate.

Outdoor-fabric manufacturers are not necessarily weaving inside the lines. Outdoor fabrics are increasingly being used in indoor applications, raising a question: Has the descriptive word outdoor become too limiting?

“Our business is still primarily driven by the outdoor market and sold in outdoor applications. We have seen growth, however, on the truly residential indoor side of the business in the past two years,” Natalie Scott, vice president of sales and marketing for Sattler Corp./Outdura (Hudson, North Carolina), reports.

The same is true for Phifer Inc. (Tuscaloosa, Alabama), where most furniture fabrics are used primarily for outdoor applications. Hugo Benitez, national market manager, Designed Fabrics, states, “There has been an increase recently in the use

1

of our Designed Fabrics in the indoor market, however. The Designed Fabrics collection includes a complete stock line of more than 250 sling and cushion fabrics for both the indoor and outdoor furniture markets. Related niche markets include fabrics for bags, wall coverings, awnings, and

marine products, as well as various other unique applications.”

At Twitchell Technical Products LLC (Dothan, Alabama), the current product mix is weighted toward the indoor market, with sales split 60–40 between indoor and outdoor uses, according to Nancy Egge, designer. “For our Textilene products, indoor applications are typically in high-traffic/ commercial areas. Our fabrics are excellent if flame retardants, shade factors, cleanability, UV inhibitors, or abrasion resistance are important to the end user. We have over 500 active colors, and we take great pride in giving our customers exactly what they want,” she says.

Other manufacturers see the limitations of being dubbed an outdoorfabric manufacturer and refuse to be pigeonholed. “We sell through dis-

1. Solarium outdoor fabrics by Richloom 2. Bottom: Phifer’s GeoBella Hob Nob emerald navy (seat cushion), GeoBella Bombay navy

2

16

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

(tablecloth), and GeoBella Sausalito navy (accent pillow)

tributors and furniture manufacturers, and it is their customers who determine how to use fabrics. We don’t like to limit the designer’s creativity and specify anything as an outdoor fabric only,” Sarah Keelen, senior stylist for BellaDura/Wearbest (New York, New York), explains. “A beautiful pattern is a beautiful pattern, and Bella-Dura can be used anywhere, including inside the home. We consider BellaDura a performance fabric that can perform in any environment— indoors or out—and are happy to see people using it in both.”

Richloom Fabrics Group (New York, New York) makes that easy.

Richloom markets its Solarium brand simply as indoor/outdoor fabric, according to Lori-Jo Shea, design director for Richloom’s Solarium Outdoor Division.

While increased indoor use has come about because of the beauty and durability of outdoor fabrics, is the reverse true? Are there new outdoor applications that have emerged due to the increase in indoor-fabric business?

Egge says, “Absolutely: The most

obvious indoor-to-outdoor application is floor covering. We have a tufted Textilene product that is currently used for exterior doormats. With the addition of color and design, this product is gradually moving into larger, decorative area rugs—justifying the true outdoor-room concept. There are also indoor/outdoor flooring applications that use our woven products for both 10–foot-wide wallto-wall carpets and area rugs.”

Greg Voorhis, design manager for Glen Raven Custom Fabrics (Glen Raven, North Carolina), is seeing a trend toward fully upholstered outdoor furniture. “You can easily join indoor and outdoor spaces together with a coordinating look,” he says.

Benitez agrees; he says, “The look of upholstered

3

kind look and construction. This trend is leading us to explore new ways of constructing fabrics with a handmade, authentic look to them. Manufacturers are using Sunbrella® fabrics for a variety of interesting applications, such as handbags, lampshades, and baskets.

We are always amazed to see the unique ways people are using our fabrics,” he says.

Shea sees more use of Richloom fabrics in such products as poufs, accent pillows, and window panels, in addition to umbrellas. Increased indoor use has also changed the way that designers create designs, Keelen suggests. She says, “From the new colors we add to a greater focus on novelty yarns (such as a mélange bouclé we recently introduced), increased indoor applications continually drive us to explore new

5

ways to offer a softer product without sacrificing the performance attributes.”

It’s an interwoven marketplace, where fabrics and applications easily cross once-rigid boundaries.

“In the past, there was great separation between indoor and outdoor fabrics,” Scott says. “Today, because of the innovation in product development and design on the outdoor side of the business, outdoor performance fabrics look very much like fabrics that are used inside the home. The separa-

3. Twitchell stock fabrics (from top) in slate, glacier, Caribbean, tealicious, ink pen, and electric blue 4. From Bella-Dura’s Colorfully By the Yard group (from top), Coraline, Lewitt, Dart, Dexter, Scallop, and Ticking 5. Phifer’s indoor/outdoor GeoBella cushion fabrics 6. Outdura’s Avant Garden fabrics 7. The Sunbrella Icon collection from Glen Raven

6

4

indoor furniture is becoming more desirable in the outdoor market. Phifer’s Phifertex® PVC fabrics are being wrapped around the frames of outdoor furniture to recreate the look and beauty of upholstered furniture. This brings added texture, yet still provides the comfort desired in an outdoorfurniture setting.”

Scott says, “Fully upholstered furniture is more of a new application that we see our fabrics in,” adding that poufs and upholstered ottomans continue to be popular. “Upholstered pool floats are also a new trend (more in the hospitality industry),” she reports.

Voorhis sees a shift toward an artisanal look.

“People are seeking out fabrics that have a one-of-a-

7

July/August 2014 Patio & Hearth Products Report

17

SPOTLIGHT tion is no longer as evident—and many times, a consumer (or even a merchandiser) cannot determine what is considered indoor or outdoor fabric, when reviewing sideby-side samples of each.”

TRENDING NOW Manufacturers see several top trends, indoors and outside, in fabrics for 2014 and 2015. At Outdura, one of the trends is the creation of “products that have a good hand and interesting texture,” Scott states. “In terms of fashion trends—especially in the design world—ikats continue to be popular, and skins (as well as leaves) are equally important.”

Beyond texture is color. “It’s an evolution of color,” Keelen clarifies. “Fashionable jewel-toned brights are being shown with gray and taupe, making them more livable. Globally influenced, handmade techniques (such as embroidery, batik, and ikat) are still very

popular and are being shown in these new, saturated colors— which make them feel fresh.”

Carol Harkey, vice president of design at Phifer, says, “On the cushion side, we are seeing more vivid colors in clean, geometric patterns. The concept of less is more fits the bill. Our sling fabrics are very textural and infused with pops of color as well. Mixing different types of patterns in coordinating colors or colors of the same intensity offers a new look.

Anything goes to express an individual’s personality.”

Is the big color Pantone’s 2014 color of the year or something else? “I actually think Pantone nailed it, this year, with radiant orchid,” Keelen says. “Europeans embraced purple years ago, but the U.S. market has struggled to find the right shade. This purple has the right amount of red and is the perfect value to pair with neutrals, grays, cool browns, and sea

1

1. A mélange bouclé in Bella-Dura’s Discover line—an addition to the By the Yard collection 2. The Sunbrella Icon collection from Glen Raven 3. Outdura’s Good Vibrations

3

Circle Reader Service No. 18

18

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

2

Circle Reader Service No. 19

SPOTLIGHT glass. I think we will see this color make its way to furniture in 2015.”

Harkey says that Phifer concurs with Pantone’s choice of radiant orchid and will be using the color in design development. She adds, “We are also introducing a new, vivid blue—called blue blaze— that may be just as important for outdoors, if not more important.”

Egge says, “You certainly can’t go wrong with any shade of blue.” She reports that Twitchell has added slate, glacier, Caribbean, tealicious, ink pen, and electric blue to its stock line. Shea points out that Richloom is backing turquoise for 2014.

Voorhis predicts that on-trend colors will range from deep, bright blue to a darker indigo: “colors that resonate within the artisanal trend,” he says.

Scott says, “Pantone does a terrific job of identifying color trends, and we are always excited to hear its announcement of the color of the year,” but Outdura tries to balance its color introductions with a new color that doesn’t necessarily come from Pantone. Outdura wants a color that, she says, “will add life to our existing color palette (along with good neutrals that can serve as basics for the neutral-colored frames in the industry).”

She continues, “For this season and the markets, colors that pop are amber and teal (in combination); spearmint, as a new green; and indigo, for a new blue. For the neutrals, wren and zinc are key colors that are highly sellable by dealers and embraced by our manufacturers.”

1

1. The Sunbrella Icon collection from Glen Raven 2. Solarium Curious Birds soleil by Richloom 3. Phifer’s fabrics on the Summer collection by Suncoast Furniture, featuring Phifertex Wicker Veranda nutmeg (furni-

WHAT’S NEW Bella-Dura rolled out several new introductions at Showtime in June; they include a By the Yard collection that features 124 SKUs of some its most popular patterns and colors.

“This collection will be stocked on our shelves, offering a quick-ship option for orders of up to 49 yards. We are also really excited about our new mélange bouclé, a stripe warp construction (and a finer look than people have seen from us before),” Keelen says.

Glen Raven recently launched its Icon collection, which harks back to the company’s design history. “The 1960s-inspired fabrics look back to the original Sunbrella collection from 1961 and are reinterpreted for a modernday look,” Voorhis explains. “The 1970sinspired fabrics take their inspiration from apparel knits designed by Glen Raven during the 1970s. This new collection features timeless designs that are well suited to today’s furniture.”

Voorhis continues, “We are always working on improving our technologies and developing new constructions and techniques for Sunbrella yarn. We have many exciting developments on the horizon and look forward to sharing them in the coming months.”

Outdura is “pushing the boundaries of the great outdoors,” Scott says, with its Avant Garden fabric. “This fashion-inspired 20

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

ture wrapping), GeoBella Rock Solid berry (seat cushion), and GeoBella Sausalito blaze (accent pillow)

2

3

collection contrasts clean-lined graphics with painterly watercolor effects. Going green is easy with a touch of fashion’s freshest in the spearmint feature color,” she adds.

Good Vibrations, another new fabric, features sizzling oranges, reds, and pinks that “are a knockout in feature-color punch,” Scott says. Then there’s Glee, which is a multicolored stripe that is “bold and saturated in color,” she notes. It is paired with Scoop, a sharkskin dobby pattern.

“We are more focused than ever on providing a broad customer base with a variety of decorativefabric options,” Scott says. “In addition, a new commitment from Outdura to our customers is to make our fabrics more accessible. Whether it is through our new stock program or our cut-yardage program, we have something for everyone.”

Phifer recently unveiled its Phifertex Contract line of sling fabrics designed specifically for the commercial and hospitality segments of the outdoor-furniture industry. Benitez explains that the simple, clean, and classic weaves of these fabrics are perfect for virtually any design scheme. They are high-performance PVC fabrics that are constructed to withstand extreme weather conditions and are maintenance free. They are also infused with

Circle Reader Service No. 21

SPOTLIGHT features unique to Phifer fabrics, including Microban protection and certification by the Greenguard Environmental Institute.

He also points to GeoBella, Phifer’s line of highend, high-performance indoor/outdoor cushion fabrics made of 100% olefin yarns (recycled from postindustrial waste). These PVC-free, 100% recyclable furniture fabrics offer a soft, touchable texture that mimics the comfort of indoor furniture, yet has the built-in durability needed for outdoorcushion applications Look for more color on the horizon, too.

“Phifer’s 2014–2015 Designed Fabrics stock line will feature more color in bold, rich, and fresh tones,” Benitez promises.

At Richloom, prints are trending. The company has developed some novelty prints, such as Solarium Curious Birds soleil and Curious Birds garden, both of which make unique statements on the outdoor scene. “The outdoor season is upon us. Prints surround us, from the latest fashion trends to home decor,” Shea says. “Solarium fabrics are fashionable, durable, and weather resistant, creating style that lasts. They feature bright, vivid, and versatile colors that are treated to withstand the elements. These patterns will transform your outdoor space into an extension of your home.”

Twitchell has joined forces with Outdura to offer a fully coordinated assortment of fabrics for residential and commercial use

Microban® antimicrobial product protection to inhibit the growth of stain-causing bacteria, mold, and mildew.

In the future, “Phifer promises to continue to be proactive, when it comes to offering environmentally friendly fabric selections,” Benitez says. He adds that many of the company’s products possess value-added

Twitchell is introducing a cut-yardage fabric program for consumers. The company is launching the Acclaim collection, a group of 20 Textilene fabrics that coordinate with Outdura’s Ovation collection, as part of the cut-yardage program. “We just received our sample books and are excited about our joint launch,” Egge says. The 20 featured fabrics in the Acclaim collection can be ordered in lengths of as few as 3 yards of fabric of each pattern. She adds, “The fabrics allow our customers to reduce their inventories and offer the consumer more options.”

AN INTERWOVEN FUTURE If these trends are any indication, the designation outdoor-fabric manufacturer might become a misnomer. Fabric will be judged for its beauty and durability, and there will be no rules governing where it can be used. All high-performance fabric is part of a growth segment—and has the potential to be used outdoors and indoors.

“I don’t see the performance-fabric movement going anywhere,” Keelen says. “If anything, it will become more important to consumers as they realize there are so many options, now, that are beautiful and durable. The lines between indoor and outdoor fabrics are continually being blurred—and the possibilities are endless.”

®

brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com I 855.839.5063 Brown Jordan is a registered trademark of Brown Jordan International, Inc. and is used under license to CT Acquisitions, LLC

Circle Reader Service No. 22

22

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Circle Reader Service No. 23

MARKETING MANEUVERS

KNOW THY CUSTOMER Patio Comfort attributes its success to following a basic commandment: Understand the target customer.

by SHARON SANDERS photography by JUSTIN VAN LEEUWEN

O

ttawa, Ontario—Canada’s capital—is known for its natural beauty, its stunning architecture, and its crisp spring and summer weather. Patio Comfort, in the heart of the city, is home to one of Canada’s largest outdoor-living showrooms, with a selection of products that is unmatched. For the past 49 years, the Bourada family has worked to create a recipe for success that is distinctive to its market and its customers (and is a steppingstone to future).

The business was born in 1965, when Lou

Bourada made the decision to leave the Ottawa Fire Department to start a swimming-pool–installation/supply business. Just 11 years later, the operation expanded to include The Burning Log (hearth products), and shortly thereafter, Patio Comfort was added.

Paul Anderson, general manager, joined the company in 1985. He explains, “Hearth and patio were a natural collaboration with pools. It made the strong business even stronger because people could get everything they needed under one roof, literally.” The three divisions work together (yet independently) to serve residents, all year round, with

everything that they need for outdoor living.

The family-run operation is headed by Bourada’s sons, Derek and Steve (with Derek’s son, Adam), who have developed the business into what it is today. Patio sales have grown and matured over the years, evolving from early PVC–pipe furniture to today’s sophisticated designs from Telescope Casual, Ratana, Lloyd Flanders, and Beka Casting.

Patio Comfort has served several generations of customers, which it considers to be one of its strengths. “It typically takes about 10 years for customers to come back to update or replace their furniture. Now that our patio business is 30 years old, families have come back two and three times to add to (or update) their outdoor rooms,” Anderson says.

He explains that a newer trend is that homeowners are starting to redecorate their patios with the same care with which they would redecorate

Top left: Paul Anderson

Top right: Color catches the eye on Patio Comfort’s showroom floor

Bottom: Patio Comfort has one of the largest outdoor-living showrooms in Canada

24

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Casual Living

DESIGN MADE EASY WITH THE OUTDOOR ROOM PLANNER Gensun Casual Living’s new outdoor room planner makes it easy to design your perfect space – whether it’s used for family gatherings, time spent with friends, or simply relaxing at the end of a long work day. When you use our online room planner, you’ll be able to arrange any of our outdoor furniture – from the comfort of your chair. Add an outdoor kitchen or a fire pit. Then get a preview of your new oasis. Go to gensuncasual.com to see the endless possibilities, and bring your outdoor room to life.

GENSUN CASUAL LIVING CHICAGO SHOWROOM – MERCHANDISE MART, SUITE 1667, CHICAGO, IL 60654 GENSUN CASUAL LIVING ONTARIO SHOWROOM – 1219 E. LOCUST STREET, ONTARIO, CA 91761 TOLL-FREE: 866-964-4468 VISIT US ONLINE AT: WWW.GENSUNCASUAL.COM Circle Reader Service No. 25

MARKETING MANEUVERS

Top left and right: The ability to customize furniture is what helps set Patio Comfort apart from local big-box retailers

Bottom: The Patio Comfort team

the interiors of their homes. It’s very common, when people move or add new hardscape to their yards, for them to incorporate a plan for decorating (with help from their landscape architects).

Anderson says, “People are exposed to upscale furniture at hotels, resorts, and restaurants, which makes them want the same type of luxury at home, in their own backyards. It’s not just an afterthought anymore. They will budget for outdoor furniture.”

BUILDING THE BRAND Playing to people’s desire for sophisticated furniture, Patio Comfort does a yearly ad campaign in a respected local home-design publication, Ottawa Magazine. The ads feature a simple image of a piece of furniture, a furniture collection, or something else that represents the Patio Comfort brand.

“It’s basically just a photograph and our name.

This entices people to stop by our store to see what we are all about,” Anderson says. The store runs several ads each year, along with a number of other print ads and radio spots. To create the store’s marketing materials, Anderson takes full advantage of 26

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

the product images that manufacturers make available to retailers.

He says, “It’s one of the benefits of being a loyal dealer. It would be too expensive for a business of our scale to take the kind of photos we have access to in our manufacturers’ digital photo galleries.” He says that by using these images, he is able to create professional print ads cost effectively; the same is true of television spots (made using preproduced commercials that just need to have the store’s name and graphics added).

Patio Comfort’s website (patiocomfort.ca) also links directly to its manufacturers’ sites.

Anderson says, “When people are browsing for furniture on our website, if they click on a manufacturer’s name or product, they will be directly rerouted to that manufacturer’s site to get all the information they need. Conversely, manufacturers include us in their dealer locators, so consumers can easily find us.”

Patio Comfort considers its website to be a major part of its marketing efforts. A local Webdesign company develops and maintains most of the site. Anderson is able to make simple changes (such as updating copy or changing photos) himself. He says, “It’s important to keep the site fresh and accurate because it’s the face of our business on the Web.” For the past 25 years, Patio Comfort has held an annual spring launch party to get people excited about the season’s new outdoor furniture. The event was originally held on one Sunday in midApril, but it became so popular that it is now a weeklong event.

“When it was held on just one day, people would line up at our front door (before we opened) in anticipation,” Anderson remembers. The event is promoted in the local media and in email messages sent to the store’s previous customers. Anderson says, “It’s been an effective way to get people to start

thinking about decorating their patios for the summer—and it’s a great way to further the store’s brand visibility.”

A SOLID PLAN Anderson attributes Patio Comfort’s longevity to the fact that it knows itself and its customers.

“You have to be true to your plan,” he says. The store has positioned itself as an established midrange to high-end specialty retailer: Its strengths are quality and service.

Anderson says, “We are very secure in who we are, as a retailer. It could be tempting when a fast, easy dollar is waving itself in front you, but that fast, easy dollar doesn’t last. Somebody will always come along with a better website or a slicker sales technique. If we were to get sidetracked by electronic retailing, we could lose ourselves in the price war. That’s not how we ever want to do business.”

The store’s target customer is very specific.

Anderson says, “We’re not trying to attract 20–year-old customers because many of them don’t have houses and aren’t looking for $4,000 patio sets. Our target customer is the homeowner over 40—with a disposable income—who wants to enjoy life. That is the customer we spend our time, effort, and money to attract.”

Patio Comfort has solidified its place in the Ottawa market and is unfazed by the presence of mass merchants. “They don’t offer our target customers what they need, in terms of products or service,” Anderson says. He adds that people who visit Patio Comfort for the first time are amazed by the product lines that the store carries and by the customization options that are available, including paint-finish, cushion, fabric, and accessory choices.

“One will never see anything we sell at a mass merchant. Being able to customize (and accessorize) makes homeowners feel that they have something unique that their neighbors don’t have,” Anderson explains. “We have found our niche as a specialty retailer. We value our customers, and we plan on helping them make their backyards places they can enjoy for many years to come.”

Circle Reader Service No. 27

HEARTH RETAILER

A ONE-OF-A-KIND SHOP This gem of a fireplace store offers custom design services and handcrafted products for an upscale customer base.

by SHARON SANDERS photography by “T,” PIXEL PERFECTION PHOTOGRAPHY

M

onterey, California, is known for its breathtaking coastline, its mild climate, and the stunning houses that dot the picturesque landscape. From massive mansions to quaint beach cottages, these houses perch on the region’s cliffs and hills and nestle in its valleys. For many homeowners, it can be hard (if not impossible) to find fireplaces, screens, and accessories that truly reflect their homes’ unique personalities and beauty. Award-winning designer and consultant Vicki Warner of The Hearth Shop (Monterey) has found a way to satisfy these special clients in a way that has translated into sales—and long-term relationships.

When one walks into The Hearth Shop, it is obvious that it’s anything but ordinary. Located in an upscale shopping center, the store is not filled with rows of burning fireplaces or vignettes; instead, every inch of the modest 1,600–squarefoot showroom represents what the business is all about: originality. Its design-oriented hearth displays and decor are reminiscent of those of a highend boutique.

“The shop caters to people who are looking for fireplace enhancements, screens, and accessories for their homes that are not available from a mainstream hearth manufacturer,” Warner says. “There is a need in the area (including Silicon Valley and the Bay Area) for unique pieces, excellent workmanship, and distinctive overall hearth design. They add value and atmosphere to a home.”

The store also carries an eclectic mix of home-decor items that can’t be found anywhere else in the area.

Avonne and Bill Chappell (Warner’s parents) opened the retail store in 1967. Bill Chappell was a respected stonemason in the area who helped build many of the region’s landmarks, including Herrmann Hall and several mansions on the Monterey Peninsula’s 17-Mile Drive. He also worked on

28

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Hearst Castle (near San Simeon).

His work can be found at The Inn at Spanish Bay (Pebble Beach) and El Estero bridge, as well as in a number of custom homes. He created many beautiful fireplaces, and his clients would ask where they could find fireplace screens and accessories—so he eventually opened his own shop to satisfy the demand.

“My father is all about detail and doing things

perfectly,” Warner explains; she helped in the family business until she went to college to study graphic design. After working in the field for a number of years, Warner and her husband, Tom, came back to Monterey in 1981 and purchased the shop from her parents.

Over the years, with lots of hard work, the Warners have managed to take what the Chappells started and bring it to the next level.

The Hearth Shop is the top independent resource for contractors, interior designers, architects, and homeowners in Central California who are looking for custom-designed fireplaces and fireplace accessories. Warner is the designer who works directly with clients to find creative solutions for any hearth project.

The store’s custom business has grown steadily and is what sets it apart from other hearth retailers in the area. “It’s pretty much what we are known for: We serve a high-income area with some stunning homes, and it’s hard to find decorative, functional screens that can fit the sometimes-massive fireplaces,” Warner says.

Top: The Hearth Shop in Monterey, California, is known for its custom design work Middle: From left, Jason Gaynor, Tom Warner, and Vicki Warner

Circle Reader Service No. 29

HEARTH RETAILER

Top left: Customers can find one-of-a-kind hearth products and accessories at The Hearth Shop Top right: Custom-designed fireplace accessories are the core of the store's business Bottom left: Vicki Warner (right) helps a client find creative options for a hearth project

Many of her projects are fireplace screens that include intricate designs and beautiful finishes. Warner will always schedule a complimentary in-home consultation before she begins a new project. This gives her the opportunity to gather inspiration for her design, which means looking at the room, the decor, and the overall atmosphere of the home.

She asks how the fireplace is going to be used so she can create a screen that is practical and beautiful. For example, for a wood-burning fireplace, she might create a screen that can easily be moved; for a gas unit with a remote control, she might make the screen more elaborate (because it won’t have to be moved when the user lights a fire).

After collaborating with the client, Warner

30

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

handsketches all of her designs and sends them to a manufacturer in Los Angeles that is able to build whatever she and her clients conceive.

“There are not many fireplace companies out there doing custom work. Our vendor does an amazing job, down to every detail,” she explains.

The Hearth Shop has a fireplace division run by hearth expert Jason Gaynor, who sells and installs direct-vent fireplaces and inserts (as well as providing service and safety consultations). Warner works with a gas-log company to fabricate custom grates, grate facings, andirons, and logs.

“We do a lot of custom gas logs because fireplace openings tend to be large around here. People want something that looks realistic and has a lot of impact.

Our vendor can make a special size and add a special texture or finish on a log,” she says, adding that it has taken the shop years to build up a network of craftspeople who share its vision and desire for perfection.

“We are particular about of everything we create and install. We won’t put anything in a home that we wouldn’t personally want in one of ours,” she says.

Most of the store’s custom business comes from referrals from contractors and designers. They like working with The Hearth Shop because they can be certain that their clients will be handled with respect and will get high-quality products. “It’s teamwork—and yet another part of the network we have built,” Warner says, noting that the store has a strong base of repeat customers as well.

There are many homeowners she’s worked with for years. She says, “Homes are old, in our area, so

people sell, buy, tear down, and remodel them.

Sometimes, we are involved in the remodeling of a house three or four times.” She jokes that sometimes houses become unrecognizable after major exterior remodeling, and she can recognize them only by their fireplaces.

Warner explains that service and patience are just as important as the final product is to customers. They are looking for guidance and someone they can trust to give (or find) them the right answers. She says, “It’s not unusual for a project to take up to two years to finish, and we are there for customers every step of the way. This is not an easy business, so you have to love it.”

Two years ago, The Hearth Shop redesigned its showroom to emphasize Warner’s custom fireplacescreen and accessory work. She says, “For years, I kept all of my samples in a box that I would bring to people’s homes or pull out in our showroom, but now, I have a specific place in the store that features some of the custom work that I can do.”

She says that people are thrilled when they find out that there is a way for them to get the fireplaces that they’ve always wanted, but have never been able to find in stores. Interior designers are pleased—because now, they can bring in their clients to pick out styles and finishes.

The Warners recently acquired a warehouse, which is the base of operation for fireplaces, logs and other hearth products. They are also currently in the process of adjusting the store’s marketing to stay current with what’s going on in social and mobile media.

“There is never a dull moment around here: Every job is different; every customer is different.

We enjoy the challenge and the satisfaction of helping our customers achieve their visions,” Warner concludes.

Circle Reader Service No. 31

OUTDOOR GRILLING

GRILLING UP SALES Patio Comfort attributes its success to following a basic commandment: Understand the target customer.

by CHERYL DANGEL BARTOLINI photography by JOHN SESSA

C

all it kismet: Go with it, and it could change your life. That’s the lesson learned by David Zisman, president of Evenings Delight (Miami, Florida), a retailer of patio/hearth products. Actually, it was a lesson lived by his late parents, Phyllis and Jack, and his late grandfather, Al Zisman. Following the Korean War, Jack was discharged from the U.S. Air Force, which had trained him to repair sheet metal on planes damaged by bullets. With that know-how, Jack (with his wife and his father) opened All Metal Fabrications (in the early 1960s), making ductwork and kitchen hoods.

David Zisman says, “He made whatever a customer needed,” including a box for a fireplace. Word spread; he made another and another. “My dad specialized in beautiful copper and brass pieces, with antique finishes; they were like hoods that would be attached to the wall, and you’d have a fire beneath them. They were handcrafted, beautiful fireplaces,” he remembers.

Eventually, Jack was persuaded to exhibit at a local home show. Zisman says, “My dad said no. He just didn’t want to do it. Enticed by a free booth, he agreed and built a display with beautiful copper fireplaces.” That’s how the business began to evolve

into what it is today. “He got into it reluctantly, but he was the only one in South Florida making fireplaces, so we got 100% of the sales,” Zisman says.

By the early 1970s, the company changed its name to Evenings Delight. Business was growing when a manufacturer of grills stopped by and asked if the store wanted to sell grills alongside its fireplaces: kismet (or serendipity). “Then, it was only

Charmglow grills, so the company said yes,” Zisman recalls. The business continued to grow during the 1970s. “That’s when we got into the distribution business. We took on additional grill and fireplace lines and sold them wholesale,” Zisman explains.

In 1978, the company moved from its first location into a 20,000–square-foot building that Jack purchased, with enough room for a showroom, an office, and warehouse space for the wholesale business. In the mid 1990s, Evenings Delight needed more showroom space—largely because of growth in the grill segment, in both size and sales.

“Everything was getting bigger. The original grills were 3 or 4 feet wide (with side shelves), and there wasn’t much selection. Now, they are 3, 4, and 5 feet wide, and there are dozens of brands. You need a big showroom to display them properly, and that is a secret of our success,” Zisman explains. “We build an island and show how the grill will look at your home.”

Today, Zisman co-owns the company with his siblings, Jon and Laura. As president, Zisman supervises the wholesale division and human resources.

Jon is vice president, overseeing installations, service, and sales. Laura is the secretary/treasurer, supervising the administration of the company.

More recently, a fourth generation came aboard; Zisman’s daughter, Susan, started in sales and marketing, with responsibility for the website (www.eveningsdelight.com) and for overseeing social media. The company has 25 employees, split between two stores: the original location in Miami and a second store (in Davie, Florida) that opened in the early 1980s. Both fully stocked, 6,000–square-foot showrooms have hummed along, and sales have grown.

Television commercials for Evenings Delight have aired on the Fox Network, CNN, and the

Top: The ProFire gas grill by Modern Home Products is a strong seller at Evenings Delight Bottom: As Evenings Delight’s outdoor-cooking segment grew, more floor space was devoted to grills and accessories

32

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

OUT IS THE NEW IN

6292FPG

www.dcsappliances.com 888-936-7872

Circle Reader Service No. 33

OUTDOOR GRILLING Discovery Channel. Radio advertising has also been in the mix, with commercials running on sports shows (especially during basketball season, when the regional grilling season begins). The company has also juggled print ads among several local home magazines.

“We were doing heavy television and radio advertising up until 2007. Then, something went wrong; everyone could sense it,” Zisman says.

“Everyone was leery of spending money, and the talk was that the bubble was bursting.” Zisman ceased all advertising, as he watched sales plummet by about 50% in 2008 and 2009. “I kept hearing, on the evening news, that Miami was the second-worst city for foreclosures—surpassed only by Las Vegas, Nevada—so it was bad,” he recalls.

Evenings Delight weathered the economic storm, due largely to the fact that Zisman’s father had purchased the building in which it is housed. Zisman says, “We didn’t have much debt. The mortgage payment was locked in and affordable.”

Seven years after the decline started, the industry is rebounding. “Houses now sell in about one week— for full price. That is good, because when people buy a house, they need new stuff. We’re in a good time right now: Houses are selling like hotcakes, and their values are back. Even if you’re not selling, you feel good about your home, so you don’t mind investing in it or building a $10,000 or $15,000 outdoor kitchen,” Zisman explains.

In that arena, Evenings Delight is happy to be of service. Large stainless-steel grills, rotisserie burners, side burners, doors, drawers, and all outdoorkitchen accessories are selling rapidly. Zisman says, “We probably sell three or four accessories for every grill we sell. Accessories are big business and add to the overall ticket price. We will show a grill with a door, side burner, and trash can, and we try to showcase as many accessories as we can—so customers will see what their barbecue will look like.”

At the low end, a portable grill sells for about $500. Zisman says, “We don’t bring in the cheap $169 grills, where we’d have to compete against The Home Depot or Lowe’s. We start at the midrange and go to the ultrahigh range, where grills cost $4,000 to $6,000. We try to have a price point for everybody (except that low end, where we can’t compete with the big-box price).”

When Evenings Delight considers taking on a product, Zisman considers two things: “Can we make a profit—and what is the quality level? We’re

Top: From left, Jon, Laura, David, and Susan Zisman Middle: Wood-fired ovens add smoky flavors to pizza and other foods Bottom: Evenings Delight’s inventory includes midrange to ultrahigh-end grills

34

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

known for the best-quality U.S.–made products,” he says. “We stay away from the Chinese–made grills. We will check to see whether the price is being beaten on the Internet. We don’t want consumers to go on the Internet, print out a price, and come in and say, ‘Will you match this?’”

In 2013, Zisman started advertising again, dabbling in some radio and print ads. “Now, we advertise on a Sunday-morning radio sports show,” Zisman explains, adding that he might try another cable-television ad later this year. “We are slowly ramping back up our ad campaign, and people are responding to it,” he says.

People also respond to the scent of burgers and steaks cooking on the grill, which the store will use frequently, on weekends, to build traffic. “We’ll put a couple of grills out front and put some meat on them,” Zisman says. “We’ll also use pellet smokers, which are slow cooking, so we don’t have to tend them. That gets people in the mood, from the moment they get out of their cars.”

Using social media is something the store is just now exploring. Zisman says, “My daughter knows all about Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, so she’s the one in charge of using social media to drive people to our website (which is also being revamped).”

Right now, it is a good time to be the patio/hearth business. Zisman reports that the company is “growing to be a multimillion-dollar business. We’ve had slow, steady growth through the decades. The future looks good, as long as people keep buying houses. When you’re in a business like ours, everything depends on that. As long as we keep interest rates low and don’t have another bubble that destroys the economy, times will be good.

I’m hoping that we’ll have 10, 15, or 20 years of prosperity before another recession hits,” he says.

In its early years, the company’s fortunes were boosted by chance, but Zisman is hoping that solid planning and a robust economy will ensure the company’s future. He says, “We have the fourth generation working here now, and we’re still going strong. We’re looking forward to the future—and that’s the goal.”

Power Burner

Outdoor Kitchen Accessories

Premium Grills

Salamangrill

MADE IN THE U.S.A. Circle Reader Service No. 35

SHOWROOM SHOWCASE

PLANNING FOR SUCCESS Prudent, managed growth propels Chair King Backyard Store into position as one of the largest U.S. specialty retailers. by KIMBERLY RODGERS photography by JIMMY LOYD

W Top: Chair King Backyard Store sells many highquality lines, in addition to its own proprietary brands (such as this Royal Terrace collection) Bottom: The company has 18 locations in Texas, including its newest site in Houston—the chain’s eighth store in that city

36

hen David Barish, Ph.D., joined the outdoor-furniture business owned by his father, Marvin, the company had two retail locations in Houston, Texas.

That was 34 years ago. Today, that company, Chair King® Backyard Store, is among the largest specialty retailers in the United States: Its holdings include 18 Chair King Backyard Store locations in Texas; 24 Fortunoff Backyard Store locations, positioned throughout the Northeast and Florida; and Leisure Collections, a showroom housed in the Houston Design Center.

In 1973, Marvin Barish, who had been in retail for many years, acquired the company (founded in 1950 as The Chair King, in Houston) from the original owner. The company’s eventual size might not have been foreseen by the Barish family, but steady, responsible growth has always been a central component of its strategy.

After earning his doctorate in Jewish History, David Barish decided to join the family business—entering the retail world (which was in his blood). “In 1980, when I came onboard, we only had the original two stores. My father and I agreed that we would begin to

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

expand the company with additional locations, but in a very prudent fashion. We only grow when it is operationally and financially feasible,” Barish, now president and CEO, explains.

A well–thought-out expansion plan helped Barish avoid the experience of many companies that start strongly, grow too quickly, and then fail under the weight of a heavy debt load. “We find locations that not only are great for visibility, but also are affordable.

We will not overpay for a location or take a site just because we need to open a store. Too many companies go out of business with that formula,” Barish says.

Chair King Backyard Store looms large, throughout Texas, in the major cities of Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio. In 2010, the company acquired the license for the iconic Fortunoff brand and launched Fortunoff Backyard Store, which moved Chair King Backyard Store into place as one of the largest specialty retailers in the United States. “The addition of the Fortunoff stores skyrocketed our volume level,” Barish explains.

KEYS TO SUCCESS In addition to the company’s well-planned growth, an important component of its success is a philosophy

first established by Marvin Barish. “My father never wanted to lock anyone out of our market, so when someone came into our store, there would be something for that consumer,” Barish says.

He adds, “The young couple starting out with a first home might buy a starter set, but that couple, 10 or 15 years down the road, will be more financially able to afford a better product. We want that couple to have had a great first experience with us, so the pair will come back to us again for the second or third purchase.” This model has proved true across generations. Barish says, “Grandparents, their children, and their grandchildren come into our stores because the experience was right the first time.”

Chair King Backyard Store has kept its primary product focus on outdoor furniture. “You have to keep your eye on the ball and know who you are, and you must not stray from the core of your business,” Barish says. The company branches into other outdoor segments (such as the grill market, in 2010) when doing so enhances convenience for the customer.

The company’s advertising tag line (We Make

It Easy to Take It Easy) is more than just a marketing promotion. Barish says, “We don’t want our customers to have to go down the street to a big-box store to buy products that they can buy from us. They should be able to come into our stores and create the perfect backyard—and that includes a grilling experience.” To make the entire buying experience convenient for its customers, the company even provides, at no charge, the gravel needed to fill umbrella bases.

In 1983, Barish was one of the first retailers to import products directly from China. At that time, he started incorporating different lines from China into the proprietary brands of Chair King Backyard Store. “We were able not only to keep prices down and to keep margins up, but also to bring exclusive products into our stores that no one else had,” he says. A buying team travels to China three times a year, and Barish makes an annual trip.

Managing one of the largest specialty retail businesses in the United States certainly keeps Barish a busy man, but he runs his successful organization with a team of great people, including

Top left and middle: Judy Evans, store manager, and Joel Geddis, sales associate, both work in the company's newest Houston location Top right: The St. Tropez collection is a proprietary brand of Chair King Backyard Store Bottom: Chair King Backyard Store offers a variety of collections in different materials, including solid plantation teak

a top-notch senior-executive team. Fortunoff Backyard Store locations are run by an independent executive team (headed by Bernard Sensale).

Barish oversees all Chair King Backyard Store operations in Texas. “We integrate when it behooves us to, when it comes to vendor relationships and buying,” Barish says.

Moreover, he adds, “We try to stay close to our markets, and that is one of our key factors as well. What works in Texas might not work in New York or Florida.”

The reopening of Fortunoff (as Fortunoff Backyard Store) has been enthusiastically received in the marketplace. Initially, seven stores were launched in 2010 in New York and New Jersey; now, 24 are operational throughout the

July/August 2014 Patio & Hearth Products Report

37

SHOWROOM SHOWCASE

Northeast and Florida. “We can tell you story after story about how customers are thankful not only that Fortunoff stores are back, but that the name is back, too,” Barish says. “We have to protect that name, and we are very careful with (and cognizant of ) the 90-year history of the brand and what it means to the consumer.”

Barish tells everyone that you should be in business for two reasons: “Make money and have fun doing it,” he says. “When you have a large business, however, it is not just about making money. The families we are able to support, by means of making

money and offering jobs, make me very proud.” Among all his businesses, Barish employs approximately 400 people, many of whom are long-term employees.

After more than 30 years in the outdoor/ casual industry, Barish remains excited and positive about its future. He says, “Wicker is becoming stronger, and I like the variety of weaves and extrusions, now being done, that look more like natural rattan—but can withstand the outdoor elements.” He stays focused on the future of Chair King Backyard Store and Fortunoff Backyard Store. He predicts, “We

Circle Reader Service No. 38

38

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Left: Throughout its 34-year history, Chair King Backyard Store has kept its primary merchandising focus on outdoor furniture Right: Developments in new weaves and extrusions in outdoor wicker have helped the category remain popular

will continue to grow our businesses, but we will adhere to our philosophy of prudent and managed growth. We will expand when it works—operationally and financially.”

Circle Reader Service No. 39

AS I SEE IT

PLUSH AND PROFITABLE Couristan’s outdoor rugs are strong sellers for outdoor-living retailers.

by SHARON SANDERS

Consumers are always looking for the next big thing. Couristan Inc. (Fort Lee, New Jersey) successfully introduced its outdoor rugs into the casual-living market 14 years ago, to fill a niche, and it has since become a leader and trendsetter in the category.

Patio & Hearth Products Report sat down with Larry Mahurter, director of marketing and advertising for Couristan, to take a look at the outdoor-rug category, how it has changed, and where it’s going.

What put Couristan on the map in the outdoor-rug category?

Mahurter: Actually, we view ourselves as a pioneer in this category. In 2000, we introduced polypropylene, flat-weave, geometric two-color rugs.

At one time, Couristan marketed them as indoor rugs, but with the integration of polypropylene (on the surface and the backing), we were able to turn them into an indoor/outdoor product; that set us apart, right from the start. There were several years when other manufacturers were trying to catch up with us—and when they did, we evolved again.

What sets Couristan apart from other outdoor-rug manufacturers?

Top: From the Fresco collection, Netherlands/aqua blue

Mahurter: Right now, I think this category is about trendsetting and fashion—and we recognize that fact. Our offerings have evolved from our original two-color rugs into rugs that have eight to 12 colors in a single design.

We have progressed with our fiber content and construction, with our handhooked rugs (which have the soft, fluffy feel of an indoor rug). We definitely have a full range of rugs to set us apart.

(3895/0895)

What kind of growth have you seen in the category?

Mahurter: While it has grown tremendously, I feel it’s also just starting to grow—because there is

40

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

(2266/5000) Bottom: The Covington collection’s Ariatta/sea mist

so much potential. Before the recession hit, I think people viewed outdoor living as seasonal, but I think that has changed, and it is now a year-round category. I say this because our sales are consistent, across the board, for 12 months out of the year.

Our main distribution channels remain in California and Arizona, but we see a fair number of rugs being purchased, across the country, during the winter and fall. As homeowners are realizing how much they like to entertain outdoors (on their patios and decks and around their pools), they have a desire to furnish their spaces beautifully.

Circle Reader Service No. 41

AS I SEE IT

“ Designs have shifted to larger motifs, with floral, geometric, or contemporary styles.

We are starting to see bold, bright pops of color that represent spring and summer. ”

What changes have you seen recently in style and technology?

Mahurter: While technology has basically stayed the same (with heat-set polypropylene on the surface and backing of area rugs), there has been a major shift in style. I’ve been with Couristan for 23 years, and I’ve never seen more emphasis on fashion than there is today.

Designs have shifted to larger motifs, with floral, geometric, or contemporary styles. We are starting to see bold, bright pops of color that represent spring and summer.

Outdoor rugs have such an indoor look that people on the East Coast are actually bringing them inside during the winter and using them in their bathrooms or kitchens, instead of storing them in their sheds. Our rugs are actually classified as indoor/outdoor performance rugs, not just outdoor rugs.

Are there styles/colors that have been consistently popular with customers?

Mahurter: While bright colors are in style, neutral and natural colors are still the hallmark of the outdoor category. People are buying rugs 42

with neutrals as the base color, and the highlights and secondary colors are bright. Naturals and neutrals include colors such as beige, taupe, gray, black, white, and ivory, which will never go away. Navy blue, lighter blue, and terracotta are also very adaptable staples.

Top: From the Covington collection, Hibiscus/rosebud-honey (2297/3098) Middle: The Grand Cayman collection’s Callabash/ivory-navy-red (5656/5620) Bottom: Summer Siesta/sand-multi (5205/1255) from the Covington collection

do well with our simpler rugs (such as two-color chevron patterns) and stripes. Stripes have a big impact, along with an outdoor/casual appeal that isn’t going away.

How can specialty retailers get their customers excited about outdoor rugs?

What Couristan products are you most excited about for 2014?

Mahurter: Hands down, it’s the fashion statement. I am eager to see where our product-development team takes us next, as far as textures and color palettes go. I’ve seen 13 or 14 introductions, so far, and they are bold and fashion forward. Bright oranges, reds, blues, and greens are all over our rugs for the coming seasons.

I know we will also continue to

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Mahurter: Outdoor rugs are everywhere today, so they aren’t the hard sell that they used to be. People don’t wonder whether they will hold up outdoors in harsh weather because they see them in every magazine, catalog, restaurant, and hotel.

All retailers need to do is put outdoor rugs at the bases of their patio vignettes: That speaks volumes about the product. If customers like what they see, they will want to buy the whole package.

It’s also a good idea to have graphics in the store that actually show rugs in an outdoor setting.

We offer two merchandising tools that retailers can take advantage of, including an endcap that houses up to 20 8x11-foot rugs. It has graphics that show rugs in an outdoor

setting, as well as bullet points on the advantages of outdoor rugs.

We also offer a rug rack (similar to a clothing rack) that houses 40 to 42 area rugs on hangers. People can take them home as samples, and retailers can use them as a selling tool.

What does the future hold for Couristan’s outdoor-rug division?

Mahurter: The company is going to continue to grow, and consumer interest will grow as well. Perhaps it will get to the point where consumer interest is so great that buyers will be waiting for the next generation of outdoor rugs. We are always working to stay ahead of the curve and always thinking where we are going to take the company next.

We are very committed to helping our dealers promote this category and sell it. I think that is the key, across the board, to everything we do here. I am really proud of our products right now, and I know there is so much more to come.

9LVLW XV DW WKH ,&)$ &DVXDO 6KRZ 6HSWHPEHU 6KRZURRP

Circle Reader Service No. 43

MY TURN

DRIVING GROWTH Cal Flame embraces innovation in its quest to develop the best outdoor-kitchen products in the marketplace.

by SHARON SANDERS

At Cal Flame®, the details matter.

The Pomona, California, manufacturer came onto the outdoor-living scene with its hearth and barbecue products in 2000, and it has since become a leader in the industry.

The company has expertly managed to translate the innovative (yet practical) details of its products into sales. “Anyone can make a barbecue or outdoor-kitchen island, but we offer the interesting extras that nudge a customer to choose one of our products over a competitor’s,” Shiva Noble, executive vice president at Cal Flame, explains.

From its products’ aesthetic features—such as lighted grill knobs—to functional cooking accessories, such as its V-shaped grill grate (which prevents food from falling through the grate), Cal Flame is inherently an innovator. It was the first company to introduce a grill light for nighttime cooking, and it holds the distinction of being the only manufacturer that offers a convection-cooking option on its grills.

44

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

In March 2014, the company launched its exclusive Master Chef Outdoor HPB island, which brings together (in one unit) everything that a homeowner could ever want in an outdoor-kitchen/entertaining area—with components for both cooking and relaxing. On its debut, at the 2014 HPBExpo, it was honored with a Vesta Award for outdoor-room equipment. The Master Chef Outdoor HPB island features Cal Flame’s exclusive four-burner convection grill, as well as an integrated kamadostyle grill for smoking meats and baking bread.

It’s the perfect setup for a backyard gathering because it has an illuminated countertop with raised bar seating (for up to 10 guests), a refriger-

ator, an ice maker, storage, two waterfalls, a firepit, and a fireplace—and it’s even equipped with a fully integrated sound system that works with any Bluetooth–enabled device. “We basically took some of our most popular products and combined them into a single outdoor island: It’s quite amazing,” Noble says.

For 2014, Cal Flame also supersized its topselling P4™ four-burner gas grill by introducing its counterpart: the P5™. This new 40-inch grill has five burners and boasts a 1,000–square-inch cooking surface (compared with the 800 square inches of the P4), making it one of the largest cooking surfaces available.

The grill allows any burner to be switched out for an optional Sear Zone burner or smoke tray, for different grilling alternatives. The P5 has the features that made the P4 popular, including interior lights, a smoker box, a griddle tray, and a full-size rotisserie.

“The P5 has all the extras needed to make juicy, tasty food. Couple that with its huge cooking surface, and one can easily prepare an entire meal, from start to finish, on the grill,” Noble says.

Innovations and features that add convenience to the company’s wellengineered products have always been drivers of Cal Flame’s business. The company works with consumer focus

Top: The Cal Flame Top Gun convection grill Middle: The FRP910 outdoor fireplace Bottom: The FPT G5000 outdoor firepit

Circle Reader Service No. 45

MY TURN

groups to gather ideas for the development of products that people want to use. For example, each of Cal Flame’s gas grills is built with a bezel at the front to prevent liquid from leaking onto the knobs (and making them sticky). All of its grills have individual igniters on each burner, instead of one igniter for the entire grill, giving users more control in cooking.

Cal Flame introduced a charcoal-conversion kit that can turn any gas model into a charcoal grill.

The kit’s removable tray (filled with charcoal) is first placed on a gas grill’s burner. When the burner is turned on, the charcoal catches fire; then, the burner can be turned off, and food can be cooked

over the charcoal. A bonus is that half of the grill can use charcoal while the other half uses gas—at the same time. Noble adds, “Because we do our research and get consumers’ opinions, when we introduce something new into the market, we know it is something that will sell.”

According to Noble, today’s outdoor-kitchen

Left: Cal Flame’s deep fryer grill accessory Right: The PV6016 island

Circle Reader Service No. 46

46

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

market is driven by people who want their outdoor kitchens and living areas to mirror what they have indoors. “Now that the economy is better, more people want to turn the backyard into another living area—because they aren’t able to move to bigger houses, but they can afford to fix up what they have. This has been a huge opportunity for us,” Noble says.

The company has doubled the size of its fireplace and firepit lines, adding 12 to 15 different shapes and sizes. Cal Flame has also jumped into the portable island business. “This is a big category because people can build custom kitchens in their backyards without having to hire contractors,” Noble says. “They can choose what they want (from appliances to cabinetry and hardware), and it’s delivered directly to their homes.”

Noble is eager to see what the future holds for Cal Flame and anticipates nothing but steady growth. She says, “Every year, we are seeing our dealer base expand because there is more demand for our products.” She attributes this to the fact that there is more emphasis on creating beautiful, functional backyards than ever before in consumer magazines, on television, and in stores.

“What really excites me is that home builders are starting to recognize how important outdoor square footage is in a new home. Where I live (in Southern California), new homes are being built with kitchens, fireplaces, lighting, patio covers, and other amenities for an outdoor room. That’s something that is marketed as one of the features of a new home, just as a gourmet kitchen or large living room is,” she says, adding that this trend is also motivating people with existing homes to upgrade their backyards.

Noble concludes, “People are starting to focus on their backyards when they are redecorating.

They are freshening them up, just as they would any indoor room. We want to be the ones to help them do it.”

STEP OUT INTO LUXURY so good.

Warmth has never looked

BERLIN LIGHTS VENT-FREE GAS FIREPLACE SYSTEMS FEATURED Berlin Lights See-Through model shown with Green Glass Media.

Astria’s contemporary collection brings you fire at its finest. Award-winning design and the latest technology fuse together seamlessly into works of art that are not only beautiful, they’re efficient. The best of both worlds has never looked better.

Scan code to view product webpage Visit us online at Astria.us.com

© 2014 Innovative Hearth Products

Circle Reader Service No. 47

PRODUCT INNOVATION

ALL AGLOW Travis Industries strives to make opening the product box a delight.

by CHERYL DANGEL BARTOLINI

Combine a passion for fire, a flair for design, and a desire to solve problems, and you have the combustible combination that is Travis Industries.

Kurt Rumens is president of this self-described House of Fire; that’s the name of the company’s 11-acre factory, which manufactures such prestigious brands as Lopi™, Fireplace Xtrordinair™, Avalon™, Tempest Torch™, and DaVinci Custom Fireplaces™.

Long before he headed this company (which sits on 100 acres of land in Mukilteo, Washington), Rumens drove a truck for a stove company in New England. In 1973, the United States was in the midst of an oil crisis and was facing an oil embargo. That’s when he discovered his attraction to fire.

“I became aware of the demand for these wood stoves in New England and saw the enthusiasm consumers had for these stoves. They would be waiting in line for them,” he recalls. “There was such an overwhelming desire to have energy independence. That was my introduction to the stove business, how popular these products were, and how excited people were to own them.”

Thus motivated, Rumens founded Lopi in 1978, on the West Coast, and started building wood stoves. Of course, by then, the stove business was declining from its oil-embargo boom, but sales gained ground.

Rumens oversaw the company and its national expansion for 10 years before selling it to Travis Garske (of Travis Pattern & Foundry Inc.) in 1988.

At the time, Garske was a vendor to Lopi, selling the company castings. “He knew the company and knew it well,” Rumens says; he stayed on as president of the company, renamed Travis Industries.

Within the first year, it purchased two other companies: Avalon and Fireplace Xtrordinair.

BUILDING COOL PRODUCTS From the beginning, the company’s philosophy has been to “build cool products and sell to a dedicated network of specialty hearth dealers,” Rumens says. “We never went down different channels of distribution.” The company once sold 100% of its products though a distribution channel; now, however, that accounts for about 25% of sales, with the other 75% of sales made directly to dealers.

In 26 years, the company’s plan hasn’t changed,

48

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

but its growth rate has. What started as woodstove company now offers wood, gas, and pellet stoves, in addition to electric fireplaces and inserts.

Rumens reports that the company’s intent, all along, has been to stand out in the industry. He says, “We looked at the competition. How could we make something more relevant to the homeowner? Stoves heated well, but they were not very efficient, and they were designed in cabin style.

They weren’t really front-and-center items. They had pine cones on them. From a design standpoint, think of something very rustic.”

He adds, “Much as we do today, I’d ask people, ‘What do you need, what are you excited about, and how can I help you?’” He would take that raw,

Fireplace Xtrordinair’s high-output linear gas-fireplace line, including the 3615, 4415, and 6015 models

grassroots feedback and use it to develop new products—gaining numerous patents along the way. Rumens says, “We used our stove background to develop stoves with heavy, durable construction and a clean-burning fire. Then, we morphed those into catalytic stoves with huge fireboxes and developed fireplaces with the low emissions of the wood stoves that we had started producing by then.”

While Travis Industries was building durable, efficient stoves, it gave equal importance to design, and Rumens personally orchestrated this critical

Circle Reader Service No. 49

PRODUCT INNOVATION aspect. In fact, his attention to design is, he says, what sets Travis Industries and its products apart from the competition.

“I have a keen interest in architectural design. I started the whole look: I came out with a door style in proportion and style to the steel stoves that resonated with consumers,” he says, referring to the Lopi’s signature arched doors with reverse moldings. “There was a lot of clunkiness to many designs. Our design was the big thing that was different. There were not a lot of design choices in steel stoves. Lopi offered a look that became quite famous,” he adds.

Rumens continues, “We’re known for giving a fresh look to the fire and styling of the cabinet.

A common thread is that everything is really, really durable. We have parts for everything we’ve made for 37 years.

These are meant to be heritage products, where a family can have them for multiple generations.”

Consumers like them because of their designs and efficiency; dealers like them “because they know we have their backs,” Rumens says. “We have a wonderful relationship with them.

That is part of our heritage here. We are on the second generation, in many stores.

Those we saw growing up are now the managers and owners. We don’t carve up territories. We ask dealers the same question we ask consumers: ‘How can we help you?’”

OUTPACING THE COMPETITION Ideas for new products come from asking questions (just as design ideas do). During a visit to a bed and breakfast, Rumens and his wife were told by the proprietor that he wished that he had a small fireplace that would fit into a corner. Rumens says, “That resonated with me, so I made a small, vertical portrait fireplace. No consumers or dealers were asking for it, but I felt it would be perfect for small, intimate rooms.”

He specified that it be installed 3 to 3.5 feet off the floor for optimal

50

viewing. He says, “It was very revolutionary, and we sold thousands of them. Now, others in the industry have jumped onboard to make their versions of it.”

Knowing that the competition is on its heels, Travis Industries continues to try to outpace it. The company debuted a modular fireplace as part of its line of DaVinci Custom Fireplaces and took home a 2014 Vesta Award for best gas hearth product.

Available now, the fireplace is a linear unit “taken to the extreme. It can be as small as 3 feet or grow to 20 feet long,” Rumens explains. As an extension of the Xtreme™ technology, it is power vented so that it can be installed virtually anywhere.

Rumens says, “You can vent these up to 150 feet. We also use a negative pressure in the firebox. We draw that down between the hollow glass walls, and the outside air comes and cools the surface temperature of the glass— so the hottest we get on the glass is 118 degrees. The results are a big fire and relatively cool surface temperatures on all the metal or glass.”

The modular aspect makes the fireplace easy to install. “It is hard to get a 10-foot fireplace around a corner or up a stairwell,” Rumens says, pointing out that this could be one reason that the Vesta judges honored the new fireplace. “You can have up to 220 different fireplaces—depending on how

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Top: A DaVinci 84x18-inch custom fireplace Middle: The Lopi Cape Cod wood stove Bottom: Fireplace Xtrordinair’s 4237 gas fireplace

you want to configure it— yet we have just 50 subassemblies.”

Among other new products is Fireplace Xtrordinair’s 4237 cleanfaced gas fireplace. “The fire is extraordinary, with a vibrant, big flame,” Rumens says. That’s not all, he adds: “It also has an unusual stacked log set that is crisscrossed to create this pyramid of fire.

The liner looks like old brick.” The logs are credited to an artist who works with the research/development department to carve beautifully detailed log sets. “All of the cosmetic aspects of any product come across my desk,” Rumens says.

Also new is Fireplace Xtrordinair’s line of linear gas 15inch–high fireplaces; they are offered in 36-, 44-, and 60-inch lengths. All three units are currently available. Another new product is the Lopi Cape Cod wood stove.

“Emissions for it are certified at 0.45 grams per hour, and it is over 80% efficient,” Rumens states.

Educating consumers on its vast array of products is made easier by individual brands’ educational websites. Rumens says, “We find our websites are very well visited. We see

potential customers come in well informed, and they know what they want to see. The websites are our single most powerful tool for helping consumers make decisions on what is right for their homes.”

Social media can’t give the company the qualified leads that you might expect. Travis Industries is a much bigger advocate of generating leads through cable-television adverting, as part of a cooperativeadvertising purchase with dealers.

Rumens says, “Many of the dealers now have come up with business models that work in this economy. I think it will be a very profitable business segment to stay in—but as well as they are doing, they need to look at the big picture. There is nothing but opportunity around us.”

REMAINING STRONG Going forward, the company plans to introduce 10 new products per year. “Our intent is to give dealers niches that they don’t have right now—to build their businesses. We intend to keep surprising people in new and positive ways,” Rumens says.

He adds, “We made a huge commitment to this industry last year, when we purchased a 100-acre parcel with a million–square-foot facility. That says we are here for the long term. We are not shipping anything offshore. We are investing in the factory floor and product development.

You have to have innovative products and rigorous quality control— so when you open that box, it is a delight, every time.”

We carry all the grilling accessories you’ll need!

CC1088 Flippin’ Funny™ Talking Spatula Superior Tools & Accessories for Barbecue and Pizza.

CC5146 Pit Paws™

CC6059 5x5 Salt Plates (Set of 4)

CC3125 Folding Drumstick & Wing Grilling Rack

To request product catalogs or for more information, please contact us!

Call 800-521-0505 or email sales@companion-group.com | www.companion-group.com

Circle Reader Service No. 51

CORPORATE PROFILE

ROBUST GROWTH Appealing designs and innovative social-media efforts ignite sales for Lloyd Flanders.

by KIMBERLY RODGERS

Despite a cold start to the 2014 patio selling season, sales have been heating up since early spring for many outdoor/ casual-furniture manufacturers, including industry leader Lloyd Flanders (Menominee, Michigan).

Lou Rosebrock, senior vice president of sales and marketing, is very satisfied with the company’s sales performance to date. He says, “Because we had a particularly cold start to the season, we anticipated it not being a very strong year, but it turns out otherwise—and we are very pleased that we are having a good selling season.”

This year, Rosebrock reports, the company is seeing an increase in activity in collections that feature curved sectionals, circular seating configurations, fire tables, and motion lounge chairs. “Deep seating is our strongest category, and we are certainly seeing that people are looking for more deep seating alternatives with curves and for round/circular seating collections, which we highlight in our advertising,” he says.

“Next year, we will reinforce this

52

with a new loomed collection we will be introducing, called Nova; it will give the consumer more of the functional aspect of sectionals.”

Noted for its timeless designs and heirloom-quality pieces, Lloyd Flanders is seeing great success with collections that feature cleaner lines and more detailed weaves.

Rosebrock says, “Texture is very

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

important to the consumer.”

Lloyd Flanders is renowned for its innovation in design and manufacturing processes, and this year, the company brought that spirit of innovation to its marketing efforts with a highly successful digital promotion.

For a six-week period in April and May, the Discover Luxury sales event (an Internet campaign) was aimed

Top: The Hamptons collection Left: The Grand Traverse rocker Middle: The Lloyd Loom double chaise Bottom: The Flair lounge glider and glider ottoman

Circle Reader Service No. 53

CORPORATE PROFILE directly at the consumer, for the benefit of the company’s dealers. Customers were able to download a coupon (redeemable only at an authorized dealer’s store) for a significant discount on Lloyd Flanders furniture.

The promotion was intended to go

after (and appeal to) buyers 25 to 45 years old and other members of the new buying public; these consumers heavily rely on the Internet to gather their information before making purchases. Rosebrock says, “We worked with our advertising agency to pick the

vehicle where we thought we could connect best with that consumer.”

Rosebrock attributes his company’s positive sales this year directly to the digital promotion. He says, “We were very pleased—and our retailers were happy—because it forced the consumer

approachable elegan ce

KINGSLEY˜ BATE

™

ELEGANT OUTDOOR FURNITURE

2 0 1 4 C ATA LO G AT K I N G S L E Y B AT E . C O M © Kingsley-Bate. Find dealers online. T: 703-361-7000 F: 703-361-7001 teak@kingsleybate.com [KB1209]

Circle Reader Service No. 54

54

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

into their stores and, in some instances, brought in some new customers they might not have gotten with their existing advertising.”

In developing market research for the promotion, Rosebrock reports, “There were many parallels between our demographics, as we had known them, and the demographics for this younger generation of consumers. They truly are interested in outdoor living and enhancing those living spaces by being comfortable outdoors. It was very interesting to see, in our studies, that the so-called millennials have just as strong a desire for outdoor living as their older counterparts.”

This was the second year that Lloyd Flanders used the Internet promotion, and there are plans to repeat it. Rosebrock says, “It’s a learning experience to determine the best approach, and with digital promotions, it is constantly changing. What works this year might be totally passé next year and might not be of interest to the consumer. It’s a challenge to come up with something that is fresh and has a strong appeal.”

The company has also had positive results using different social-network platforms, including Pinterest and the home-remodeling and design site Houzz. “There is much opportunity in social media, once you uncover the path to take the best advantage of it,” Rosebrock says. “We are still experimenting, but so far, the results of digital promotions have been very strong, and we are pleased to channel our advertising dollars into this arena.”

To enhance its understanding of the type of product that appeals to the younger generation’s consumers, Lloyd Flanders partnered with students from Northern Michigan University’s Human Centered Design program to develop ideas for contemporary woven furniture. “It was a fun experience to see what young people are looking for in outdoor living—and they are definitely not looking for their grandmas’ rocking chairs,” Rosebrock says.

“The students want new and exciting trends in furniture. It was a very enjoyable process, going through this with them,” he continues. Final designs were presented to Lloyd Flanders in January 2014, and five prototypes will be on display in September at the Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™.

Circle Reader Service No. 55

INSIGHT

COMFORT IN STYLE Paradise Cushions by FiberBuilt recognizes the need to pair fashion with function in creating products that customers love.

by CHERISE FORNO

Paradise Cushions by FiberBuilt (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) continues to diversify its cushion line.

This season, many cushion accessories are available; they include personalized pillows, add-on headrests, deep seating options, and multifunctional poufs. Debra Maytidu, sales manager of FiberBuilt, says, “We’re expanding the line that we feel the outdoor market needs and wants, and we’re growing.”

Recently introduced attachable headrest pillows, poufs (round and square), and deep seating cushions are expected to be popular this year.

According to Maytidu, there has been a high demand for cushions and pillows that can be customized beyond color or pattern selection alone. To meet this demand, Paradise Cushions has added a line of versatile pillows with embroidered popular sayings.

FiberBuilt Umbrellas was founded (in 2000) to meet the need, in the marketplace, for a more durable umbrella. “Over the past decade, we’ve become the leading manufacturer of fiberglass ribbed umbrellas,” Maytidu says.

The company has increased its product offerings exponentially since it was founded, expanding its commercial-grade umbrella line to include beach, garden, and cantilever models in a variety of sizes—including some as large as 13 feet in diameter. These products also are offered with many finishes, customization options, and bases.

FiberBuilt added the Paradise Cushions division, a few years ago, to supply high-quality products to the retail market, offering contractgrade umbrellas, replacement cushions, and pillows. “Since its inception, Paradise Cushions has been the 56

go-to source for many specialty retailers because of our online products, custom capabilities, and dependability,” Maytidu says.

In addition to looking for efficient, multifunctional products— such as the versatile pouf, which can be used for extra seating or as an ottoman—consumers continue to seek environmentally friendly products. “Most of our customers are knowledgeable about (and appreciative of ) the line of green fabrics from Sunbrella®,” Maytidu explains.

Maytidu says that in aesthetic terms, she has seen a continuing demand for basic neutral fabrics (for a classic look), as well as a demand for bright jewel colors. She notes that FiberBuilt’s Paradise Cushions division is striving to add more products and options to meet every customer’s needs. “We are adding lighting and heaters to our umbrellas and tents to expand the number of hours that homeowners can enjoy their outdoor rooms,” she says.

The company has added portable pop-up tents and semipermanent pavilions, and it is also finalizing a new drapery line for introduction to

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

the marketplace. The new 10x10foot pop-up tents are available in both classic and deluxe models, with durable, aluminum-framed construction and coverage spacious enough to allow adding a wonderful temporary room to any outdoor space. The tents also close to a compact size for convenient storage and feature telescoping legs for height adjustment. Side-panel drapes, with zippers and tiebacks, are among the available options.

In order to meet increased demand for its ever-growing line of cushions, Paradise Cushions recently added a new 15,000–square-foot production area—equipped to produce replacement cushions and pillows in large numbers—to its Fort Lauderdale facility. Paradise Cushions also recently invested in upgrading its technology, across every level of the company, to improve the processing and filling of customers’ orders.

“We consider our customers to be our partners, and we’re here to help them grow their businesses with products that are appropriate in color, feature, and price for the season and their clientele,” Maytidu says.

“Excellent customer service plays a major role in our company, so everyone—from the president to every employee—is dedicated to satisfying, if not surpassing, our customers’ expectations.”

As FiberBuilt rapidly expands and makes improvements, it remains committed to keeping its products in high demand. Some of the company’s most popular collections, such as the Home collection, are part of the company’s quick-ship program, which consistently and conveniently

Top: Paradise Cushions by FiberBuilt’s extensive cushion collection Left middle: The Oceana umbrella Right middle: The Affirmation pillow Bottom: Deep seating chair cushions

delivers products to its customers in three to five days. The Home collection includes garden, patio, and terrace umbrellas.

Another extremely popular line is the Prestige collection of umbrellas, which offers a variety of sizes, finishes, and canopy options. This line, for residential and hospitality use, features durable poles in aluminum or FiberTeak™.

Whether Paradise Cushions is producing replacement cushions, tents, decorative throw pillows, or poufs, Maytidu says, it stands apart from the competition. Because employees throughout the company give each order the personal attention that it deserves, customers receive exactly what they want and need.

As Paradise Cushions expands its product lines, the company will continue to be dedicated to crafting superior products and delivering them with high-quality service. “Our products stand out from our competition’s products due to our commitment to quality, the breadth of our offerings, our custom capabilities, product durability, and the fantastic service we offer our customers,” Maytidu says.

Circle Reader Service No. 57

INSIGHT

WHAT’S COOKING AT WITTUS? Exciting new culinary and hearth products complement Wittus–Fire by Design’s existing product lines.

by CHERISE FORNO

Wittus–Fire by Design (Pound Ridge, New York) has expanded its contemporary, Europeandesigned hearth- and outdoorproduct offerings with the addition of an outdoor gourmet pizza oven and an Italian wood cookstove.

As demand for environmentally friendly home products continues to grow, these thermally efficient units are sure to be popular with consumers.

The authentic Italian Happy Pizza oven has many unique capabilities, including an efficient, quick cooking time of about eight minutes for a pizza. Alyce Wittus, vice president of Wittus–Fire by Design, says that the oven is expected to be very popular this year. This wood-fired oven, which produces low greenhouse-gas emissions, can be used both indoors and outdoors, with a cooking compartment available in three sizes (20x15, 24x24, and 24x35 inches).

“It’s really an interesting product,” Wittus says.

The De Manincor wood cookstove from Italy is available in the Domino, Eco, and Atmosfera models. The features of this stove include a heavy-duty, cast-iron hot plate and construction that allows for optimal combustion and efficiency. The stove also has an airwash system that keeps the glass clean. The Domino model comes in two sizes.

Wittus notes that the De Manincor cookstove’s unique design blends state-of-the-art technology with timeless features perfected over the course of many years. “Five generations of a family-owned business have been developing these products,” Wittus says. “We are also working with a few other European manufacturers to bring unique contemporary wood stoves and fire58

places to the United States.”

According to Wittus, her company is committed to offering and developing products of award-winning quality that are recognized for both efficiency and esthetic appeal.

“In addition, they must be technically state-of-the-art, high-quality products with efficient and clean-burning sophisticated systems,” she says.

Whether Wittus–Fire by Design offers indoor or outdoor products, one thing is certain: The company will continue to dominate the niche market that it has made for itself, over the past 35 years, by delivering European contemporary design.

During that time, Wittus–Fire by Design has greatly increased its product line, from just a few woodburning stoves to a vast array of contemporary products—including cookstoves, fireplaces, inserts, outdoor grills, and pellet/gas products.

“We target a specific market— namely, that all the Wittus–Fire by Design products are in European contemporary style,” Wittus says.

“We try to satisfy all the hearth requirements for those looking for modern warm furniture.”

Eco-friendly products are another area where the company is seeing growth. “We feel there is major interest in efficient and effective fireplaces, such as our Phenix Green series,” Wittus says. With efficiency rates of 77% to 82%, the Phenix Green series has features that are unparalleled in the industry. Its innovative design allows the fireplace to be used with the fireplace door open or closed, so users can achieve the atmosphere, temperature, and efficiency levels that they desire. “You can actually adjust the air control to get the best efficiency,” Wittus explains.

The Twinfire series boasts one of the highest efficiency rates on the market, at 92%. Wittus adds that these

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Top: The Phenix Green 95 fireplace Middle: The Phenix Green 75 fireplace Bottom: Domino, from the De Manincor wood cookstove series

stoves were awarded the highest honors for efficiency at the Wood Stove Decathlon in Washington, D.C., in November 2013, in addition to placing second, overall, in the category of best wood-burning stoves.

Wittus has noticed a growing trend that favors improving homes and businesses by incorporating smarter, more eco-friendly designs into both indoor and outdoor spaces. She expects strong sales for the year ahead, especially for the company’s recently released products and its highly efficient stoves and fireplaces. “We are cautiously optimistic about the economy and are hopeful people are concerned about the planet in their decisions and purchases,” she says.

Another advantage of Wittus–Fire by Design products is the ability to pair stoves, grills, and accessories to create a stylish, warm, and inviting atmosphere, creating high-quality cooking and living spaces. Products such as the Happy Pizza oven work well individually, as well as complementing the Phenix grill and other outdoor products.

Accessories such as torch pillars also enhance outdoor designs.

No matter how much Wittus–Fire by Design expands, Wittus says, the company will remain committed to providing the same superior customer service that it has always supplied. This dedication to customers is an element that truly sets the company apart. Wittus says, “We would like to grow and offer a broader range of products, and yet maintain the feeling of a boutique and the high level of service that we currently offer.”

Circle Reader Service No. 59

LAST WORD

AN EGG’S-EYE VIEW Big Green Egg shares its insights on kamado cooking and outdoor-cooking trends.

by GREG THOMPSON

As the kamado craze continues to gain a foothold in North America, marketers at Big Green Egg® Inc. (BGE), Atlanta, Georgia, are understandably protective of their iconic brand.

the smoking process. “Cooks are smoking chocolate to use in desserts,” she says. “They are smoking cheese to use in recipes such as smoked macaroni and cheese (which is delicious). They are smoking tomatoes and peppers to use in sauces and even vanilla beans to use in ice cream.”

Even as egg-shaped units from competing manufacturers are hatched in various colors and materials, however, executives at BGE are not worried. Instead, they welcome the competition and see it as a sign that consumers and retailers are embracing the kamado concept.

Jerry Stone, business-development manager for BGE, says, “We see more kamado companies popping up every time we do a trade show—and

Top: The success of the distinctive EGG has led several new companies to enter the kamado business Bottom: Macaroni and smoked cheese (made with cheese smoked in the EGG)

60

we do four shows a year. We like to see competition, but we’d like to see more innovation. The copycat guy is not our favorite guy. We’d rather see competitors come in who have something to offer to the kamado industry and are not just copying what we’re doing. Ultimately, there’s plenty of room for all of us.”

Jodi Burson, director of brand enhancement for BGE, adds, “General kamado popularity helps BGE tremendously. We would love to get one EGG® in every neighborhood. After that, the neighbors want in on the great food and EGG lifestyle.”

Selling the outdoor lifestyle is a crucial tenet of specialty-retail success, and proactive manufacturers such as BGE often choose to drive the trends (rather than merely responding). One way to do this is to use focused marketing materials that emphasize the product’s strengths.

Big Green Egg LIFEStyle magazine focuses primarily on the flavors

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

coaxed from the EGG’s natural lump charcoal, combined with the unit’s airtight ceramic cooking chamber.

BGE publishes one or two glossy magazine issues per year that serve as potent leave-behind materials for potential customers.

“The magazine is a great tool for educating new or prospective EGG owners about the versatility and quality of the EGG,” Burson says.

“It’s not difficult to assemble because there are plenty of stories to tell. We have produced four issues in three years, and we are hard at work on the fifth. We print around 750,000 copies each year, which is more copies than a lot of newsstand magazines print.”

Burson points out that low-andslow smokers are still a powerful subset of the market—one that her company (and many others) would do well to emphasize. Meats imbued with hearty smoke flavors are still popular, but other (less traditional) ingredients are now being exposed to

CRUCIAL ACCESSORIES Accessories account for half of BGE’s sales—a testament to the tremendous potential of add-on products. Whether retailers are accessorizing for patio or hearth areas, the sheer variety of items displayed can attract impulse buys that turn into regular purchases.

“BGE consumers want accessories to enhance cooking,” Stone explains. “If you just have an EGG in your showroom and don’t have accessories to go with it, you’re not going to sell as many as you would if you displayed it with the accessories. With accessories properly displayed, customers can see that the EGG can blacken fish, bake a pie, and cook a pizza.”

Stone confirms that cooking pizza outdoors is still a hot trend (as it was last year), and savvy retailers are feeding the demand. While pizza-related accessories continue to do well for BGE and other companies, Stone reports that not all accessories strike a chord with consumers. “We came out with a citronella candle in the shape of an EGG,” Stone says. “It was a little tabletop thing you would burn to keep the mosquitoes away, in some climates. It did not sell well; we had to discontinue it. We figured that many people covet the EGG, and the last thing they want to do is burn it up, so I guess the candles became collectors’ items.”

Considering BGE’s ardent EGGhead followers, the notion of collecting accessories is not far-

Circle Reader Service No. 61

LAST WORD fetched. Hoping to capitalize on that brand devotion, the company created a new XXLarge EGG, for which international distribution began this year.

The new size has already gathered interest in the restaurant and catering trades, as well as among consumers who want an expanded cooking surface for large gatherings.

On the smaller end of the spectrum, BGE launched the MiniMax™ EGG, the company’s seventh configuration, this year. “The new MiniMax EGG is a portable solution for taking the EGG on vacations and picnics or for using it next to motor homes or on smaller patios,” Burson explains.

“MiniMax is also expected to be a huge hit in restaurants, where the EGG is already an important tool in top eateries around the world.”

Ultimately, new size additions are driven by con-

sumer demand, with the MiniMax developed primarily in reaction to the use of EGGs by Michelinstarred restaurants in Europe. “The EGG-cooked dishes are so popular that the chefs wanted a larger cooking surface with the same height as the small EGG,” Burson adds. “There is also huge interest from campers, the RV community, and tailgaters. The same can still be said for our EGGcessory line. The buzz around cooking pizza on the EGG is still very much alive, and we developed a line of pizza tools to facilitate it.”

AVOIDING MARKETING MISTAKES Why do some specialty retailers succeed where others fail? Stone, after more than a quarter-century in the grill business, believes that even seasoned professionals lose sight of their true customer base by

Circle Reader Service No. 62

62

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

The new MiniMax EGG is portable, for taking the EGG on vacations and picnics

failing to track buyers (using a computerized system). “The other part is that retailers are not spending the cooperative-advertising dollars available to market their businesses,” he says. “Many manufacturers, including BGE, offer cooperative programs for marketing/advertising because we believe that local advertising is a very powerful tool. The biggest mistake is that stores are not using those dollars.”

Whether local advertising involves newspapers, direct mail, or radio—or all three—Stone maintains that it’s hard to attract customers if they don’t know where you are and what you carry. “I think it’s a combination,” he says, “but radio has made a comeback, of sorts, because it got a lot cheaper to use, on a local basis. Some of our clever distributors will get three or four dealers in a market area and then combine marketing dollars for an ad that drives consumers to the BGE locator to find a dealer in the market area.”

According to Stone, distributors avoid territory conflicts by setting up dealer networks in different classes of trade. For BGE, the hardware industry (by virtue of sheer volume) is the number-one venue for BGE sales, followed by pool/spa retailers and the hearth/patio community.

“Those three groups touch different people,” Stone says. “Ultimately, we depend on our distributors to understand each geographic area, and that helps them make determinations on what dealer locations to open. We don’t have any protected areas that our company has sanctioned. Our entire dealer network is independent, and we encourage the continued growth of those independent business owners.”

He continues, “Fortunately, we are seeing that independent sector come back: Housing is starting to come back, and homeowners are upsizing again, which is good for the grill business. We’ve been lucky to experience double-digit growth during some of the down-economy time, and we’re very optimistic as the economy continues to grow. As an industry, our better days are ahead of us.”

Circle Reader Service No. 63

ICFA PREVIEW SHOW ROUNDUP

A SNEAK PEEK

by CAROL DAUS photography by BRIDGET MONTGOMERY

Specialty retail buyers were given the opportunity to view the casualfurniture industry’s latest products during this year’s ICFA Preview Show™, held July 15–17 in Chicago, Illinois.

Attendees of the show were impressed by the industry’s exciting range of new outdoor-living products, which will also be exhibited during the four-day Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™ (slated for September 16–19, 2014).

Pictured here are representatives of

Patio Renaissance From left: Albert Lord, Edie Love, Andrea Dibello, and Mark Gorr

Kingsley-Bate Clay Kingsley (left) and Brian Blakeney

some of the leading manufacturers in the casual-furniture and accessories industry.

By offering innovative and well-loved products (as well as superior customer service), these individuals get credit, from many retailers, for helping them increase their sales of outdoor-living merchandise.

Patio & Hearth Products Reports thanks these industry leaders for all their efforts in making the Preview Show and Casual Market successful, year after year.

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens Mitch Slater

Leisure Design John Burrows (left) and Robert Burrows

64

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

OW Lee Terri Rogers (left) and Leisa Rogers

Tropitone Tanya Stevens and John Mattson

Jensen Leisure Furniture Janet Wansor and Hlodver Olafsson

Telescope Casual F

U

R

N

Made in USA since 1903

I

T

U

R

E

www.TelescopeCasual.com

See all of our 2015 introductions in our Chicago Merchandise Mart Showroom 1568.

Circle Reader Service No. 65

Homecrest Michael Mettendorf (left) and Tim Dejong

Alfresco Home Joseph Cilio

Gensun Casual Living From left: Sherry Cai, Lisa Zhou, and Jan Trinkley

Treasure Garden Jeff Dorough, Oliver Ma, and Margaret Chang

Mallin Casual Furniture Ken Minson and Brenda Pereyda

Telescope Casual From left: Henry Vanderminden IV, Kathy Juckett, and Bill Vanderminden

Lloyd Flanders From left: Warren Juliano, Dudley Flanders, and Lou Rosebrock

Agio Mike Gaylord (left) and Bob Gaylord

66

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Patio & Hearth Products Report Tony Ramos

NorthCape International From left: Bill Wenzel, Kim Golson, and Tom Murray

Circle Reader Service No. 67

WHAT’S NEW

6 HOT PRODUCTS TO SELL NOW Homecrest | www.homecrest.com Homecrest is embracing a variety of new technologies with the launch of the Sephora fire-table collection. Featuring a custom-designed raised fire bowl, a new Icon tabletop, and innovative design, Sephora is sure to add the wow factor to any outdoor space. Shown is the Sephora chat table with a quartz top, a cognac base, and a mother of pearl bowl. Made in the United States, Homecrest fire tables are designed to offer incredible ambience and comfort. For 2015, Homecrest is offering the biggest single-year fire-table launch in the industry.

Circle Reader Service No. 90

Alfresco Home | www.alfrescohome.com Alfresco Home is proud to be the exclusive introducer of Fervor™, a brand of Australian-inspired gas grills, to the North American market. After a successful partnership with Garth Living of Australia on the Fornetto™, the natural dual-purpose oven and smoker, Alfresco Home feels confidence in the experts at Garth Living and their 40 years of experience in the development of the Fervor line of grills.

Circle Reader Service No. 91

Couristan | www.couristan.com This beautiful new rug from the Covington collection (hibiscus/rosebud honey: 2297/3098) is made of 100% fiber-enhanced Courtron™ polypropylene and features exquisite handhooked construction. Water resistant and mold/mildew resistant, it provides durable performance in frequently used spaces inside and outside the home. Its approximate pile height is 0.25 inches.

Circle Reader Service No. 92

Jensen Leisure Furniture | www.jensenleisurefurniture.com The Tivoli collection is a completely new contemporary line in natural roble wood from designer Dick Björk of Helsingborg, Sweden. The collection offers a clean, fresh look and consists of 11 SKUs, including five dining-group configurations with stackable armchairs and dining chairs, 4- and 5-foot garden benches, a chaise, and side and coffee tables. The entire collection is constructed of 100% Forest Stewardship Council–certified, solid-roble heartwood, which has a smooth hand and a beautiful golden grain.

Circle Reader Service No. 93

Supreme Fireplace | www.supremem.com 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.

Circle Reader Service No. 94

Napoleon Products | www.napoleonfireplaces.com Introducing a new line of direct-vent gas fireplaces: Napoleon’s Ascent™ 30, 35, and 42 are perfect for homeowners wanting a stunning, clean-faced fireplace for almost any room in the home—and for builders wanting a fireplace series that is convenient to install. Napoleon’s new Ascent series comes complete with Napoleon’s exclusive PHAZER® log set, which produces a beautiful display of Yellow Dancing Flames®. The series is perfect for builders who want a new, updated direct-vent fireplace to specify and install—with all the same great builder features as Napoleon’s past units.

68

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Circle Reader Service No. 95

Circle Reader Service No. 69

PRODUCT PROFILES Rio Dining The 2015 Rio dining collection from Veranda Classics includes a strikingly beautiful marble-topped rectangular table and 100% all-weather–wicker dining chairs. The unique wraparound frame features the company’s hand-applied driftwood finish. Dedicated to simplifying the buying and selling process, Veranda Classics offers two fabric options for Rio, with cushions and throw pillows included in the price.

A coordinating umbrella is available with every collection. Contact: www.VerandaClassics.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 96

Dynasty Stone Mantel A passion for perfection and an eye for detail (along with the highest-quality materials available) take center stage when the artisans at Dynasty Fireplaces create their beautiful natural-stone mantels. All finished by hand, these marble and white-limestone mantels are available in several exquisite designs, but they can also be made to your own custom specifications. Contact: (877) 521-1009 or www.dynastyfireplaces.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 97

Kolea by Agio Agio recently introduced its exciting new collection: the Kolea all-weather–wicker seating arrangement. Agio has never pursued a lot of attention for its wicker offerings, according to Bob Gaylord, the company’s president, but it is striving to change that—and the Kolea arrangement is the perfect set to get everyone’s attention. This sectional sofa-and-bar unit, which has a coordinating outdoor gas firepit, was unveiled at the ICFA Preview Show™. Contact: www.agio-USA.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 98

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: www.dcsappliances.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 99

Big Green Egg Custom Cooking Island Big Green Egg’s custom cooking islands are designed and engineered to work perfectly with the EGG for years of enjoyment. The custom cooking island features high-quality aluminum and steel construction, with solid-stainless door pulls; heavy-duty roller drawers; ample storage cabinets for charcoal and utensils; locking casters; and a durable, weather-resistant, powder-coated finish—and it comes with a lifetime warranty. Contact: www.BigGreenEgg.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 100

Carmel Square The Carmel Square captures the majestic glory of the rugged coastline and sturdy redwoods that encompass Carmel and Big Sur. As with other styles in this series, the Carmel Square will cause you to start California dreaming. The unit features a granite top large enough for you to put down your wine glass, pull up your club chair, and kick back with your friends as you solve the problems of the world. Look down at the fire in its large, square burner while you ponder fireglass choices or politics.

This time, either one leaves you happy and satisfied. Contact: (877) 274-6773 or www.californiaoutdoorconcepts.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 101

70

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Full range of

high temperature coating systems

The Original GERMAN TECHNOLOGY

senotherm速 is a brand of WEILBURGER Coatings

Call 404.219.2794 or 404.994.2292 | info@senotherm.us | www.senotherm.us Circle Reader Service No. 71

PRODUCT PROFILES Ambiance

Grill-grate Lifter

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: www.aeicorporation.com.

If you’ve ever struggled to lift the grate off a hot grill for refueling or smoking, this tool is for you. The powerful spring mechanism lets you grab and lift a hot grate with one hand, leaving the other free to add fresh charcoal or wood chips. It’s sturdy enough to lift even heavy stainless-steel and cast-iron grill grates (CC1089).

Contact: (800) 521-0505, sales@companion-group.com, or www.companion-group.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 105

Circle Reader Service No. 102

A La Cart Deluxe Barbecue Cart It’s simple to create your ideal barbecue cart with the A La Cart Deluxe. The A La Cart series allows you to select the cart size and storage space you need and match it with the Cal Flame barbecue grill of your choice. The A La Cart Deluxe comes with two drawers for storage and a bottom compartment for propane-tank storage or additional space, and it includes a bonus accessory package. It fits a standard single flat side burner. All A La Cart barbecue carts require assembly; the grill head and side burner are not included. Contact: www.calflamebbq.com.

Grand Cayman: Callabash/Ivory-NavyRed (5656/5620) This eye-catching rug from Couristan’s Grand Cayman collection is made of 100% fiber-enhanced Courtron™ polypropylene and features a relaxed, reversible pattern; a traditional color palette; and a handwoven flat weave. Water resistant and mold/mildew resistant, it provides durable performance in frequently used spaces inside and outside the home.

Contact: www.couristan.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 106

Circle Reader Service No. 103

Leucadia Sunset West is proud to introduce the Leucadia collection.

This collection features a thick, durable resin-wicker weave (in summer wheat) with a boxed seat and back cushion. The correct seating geometry and generous proportions of the group ensure hours of comfort and enjoyable entertaining in an outdoor greatroom. The collection consists of a sectional, a sofa, a love seat, both fixed and swivel rocking club chairs, occasional tables, and an ottoman. There are also two sizes of dining tables, as well as barstools and counter stools—and no collection would be complete without Sunset West’s lounges, which help complete a favorite place to spend family time. Contact: www.sunsetwestusa.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 104

72

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

New Colors by Danver Danver has created seven new nature-inspired powder-coat colors that will drive outdoor-living trends in 2014 by bringing the heart of the home outdoors. Danver’s new colors complement the fabric and finishes of leisure furniture, supporting the latest industry trend of bringing indoor themes outside.

The colors are influenced by nature, to blend best with the landscaping around the outdoor-living environment. With the unveiling of these new colors, Danver promotes outdoor living as a concept, not just a place. The vibrant new finishes by Danver allow the outdoor kitchen to be transformed into a true outdoor-living space by translating popular color trends into an integrated luxury offering. Contact: (888) 441-0537 or www.danver.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 107

Circle Reader Service No. 73

PRODUCT PROFILES 732 Commercial Umbrella Galtech’s signature SR commercial line of market umbrellas features a perfect blend of contemporary styling and commercial durability. Available in 6x6-, 7.5-, 9-, and 10x10-foot sizes, the SR series features double-walled aluminum ribs and all–stainless-steel hardware. Contact: www.galtechcorp.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 110

Boulevard See-through Fireplace Empire Comfort Systems offers its all-new 48-inch Boulevard see-through fireplace with either a linear burner or a distinctive curved burner that creates a dynamic visual display. Installed in a wall, this vent-free, ultracontemporary fireplace provides warmth and ambience to two adjoining rooms. Tailor the look of the fireplace to suit your decor with Empire’s decorative glass or ceramic-fiber rocks and pebbles. The optional lighting kit can add a sparkle to your fireplace, even when it’s not providing heat. The zero-clearance design allows you to finish the walls right up to the fireplace opening—for the ultimate in clean installations. Empire also offers two frame styles: a simple black rectangle and a Tide Water frame (in black or hammered pewter) with flowing lines and a curved profile that adds depth and movement. On the company’s website, click on Boulevard. Contact: www.americanhearth.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 108

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: www.sunbrella.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 109

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. 111

Dockside Homecrest Outdoor Living adds to its popular Dockside table collection.

The Dockside table offering is among the most extensive and versatile in the casual-furniture industry. With industry-leading pricing, as well as modern edges and sleek styling, the Dockside hexagon table (in both dining and balcony heights) accommodates seating for six, with a generous 36-inch width at each seating position. Both tables offer a six-leg base for excellent stability and boast no leg-to-chair interference in all six seating positions. The open-slat design significantly reduces water entrapment, and a narrowed table edge is designed to reduce plate rocking. The Homecrest Dockside hexagon table comes with an umbrella hole and is available in all Homecrest frame finishes. Contact: www.homecrest.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 112

Charleston The Charleston Woven collection by Leisure Design conjures up the romance of Southern living and a sultry summer day on your porch or patio. Featuring a full selection of dining and deep seating (including single and double chaises), the Charleston collection creates the perfect ambience for life outdoors. Contact: (877) 998-4427 or www.LeisureDesign.ca.

Circle Reader Service No. 113

74

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Circle Reader Service No. 75

PRODUCT PROFILES Portrait-style Traditional Direct-vent Fireplace Traditional portrait-style, direct-vent fireplace models from Empire Comfort Systems are rated at 36,000 Btu, with a handpainted log set, overhead lighting, and choice of a porcelain liner or ceramic fiber in brick or stone. They feature a ceramic-glass view window and a multifunction remote control for the light, the burner, and the optional blower. Contact: www.whitemountainhearth.com.

Flexible Natural Stone MLW Stone introduces flexible natural stone.

This revolutionary new slate product comes in 2x4-foot sheets and a 1- to 2-millimeter thickness and is offered in eight different color choices. The thin slate veneer is ultralight, easy to bend, and ideal for use on

Circle Reader Service No. 114

curved walls or as a fireplace facing. Other applications include outdoor-kitchen islands, firepits, grill stands, mantel accents, entertainment centers, and

Grace Bring the indoors outside with the clean lines and soft sophistication of Grace. Chic and stylish, Grace provides the perfect venue for dessert and cocktails after the show—yet unbelievably deep and cozy, Grace also beckons you to curl up with a book and blanket to while away a lazy Sunday. Unleash your inner designer and select complementary fabrics for back upholstery and seating fabrics, or embrace simplicity with a neutral palette; the options are endless, and the design is timeless, with Grace. Contact: www.homecrest.com.

more. Please request samples today and consider the possibilities.

Contact: (800) 477-7665, henry@mlwalker.com, or www.mlwstone.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 115

Circle Reader Service No. 117

Madison Park CD Gas Fireplace Insert

76

Durawood Sunrise Adirondack Chair

IronStrike’s Madison Park™ CD gas fireplace insert has a stunning clean-faced design with amazing versatility. Madison Park has a Btu output of 25,000 and a heating capacity of up to 1,500 square feet.

The face style and finish are available in Santa Fe, contemporary, and Deco models. The liner is available in red rustic, buff rustic, and porcelain versions. Sky, rain, cloud, sunset, and midnight are the color choices for the glass media. Contact: www.ironstrike.us.com.

Inspired by life in the coastal South, this maintenance-free porch chair is part of the handsome new furniture line from the 125–year-old master hammock maker, Original Pawleys Island Rope Hammock®. Crafted ™ of solid Durawood HDPE lumber manufactured from recycled plastic milk jugs and available in multiple color choices, the Durawood Sunrise Adirondack chair also features marine-grade, rust-resistant, 316 stainless-steel hardware and uncommonly secure joint connections, making this among the most stable outdoor chairs available today. It’s also backed by a full residential lifetime warranty. Contact: (800) 334-1078 or www.thehammocksource.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 116

Circle Reader Service No. 118

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Miami

STARfire 52

With modern open-weave styling, Kingsley-Bate’s Miami collection represents high design. Nearly invisible aluminum frames give structure and form to a sophisticated grid of all-weather wicker. Stocked in onyx black, the group includes a deep seating lounge chair, settee, sofa, ottoman, side table, and coffee table. Contact: www.kingsleybate.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 119

Adding to Napoleon’s already extensive lineup is the new STARfire™ 52, a perfect fit for greatrooms and large family rooms—and for homeowners who want to make a statement. Napoleon’s new STARfire 52 offers a massive viewing area and is available with a log burner, a rock burner, or a glass burner configuration, making it easy to match any room in your home. The STARfire 52 offers more then 1,500 square inches of glass area, so the firebox can be enjoyed from any angle in your room. It offers an output of up to 55,000 Btu, multiple firebox configurations, a remote control for added convenience, an exclusive NIGHT LIGHT™, a standard safety screen, optional decorative accessories, and electronic ignition (with battery backup).

Homeowners will love showing off the STARfire 52 to family and friends.

Contact: www.napoleonfireplaces.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 120

Reclaimed Series Porcelain Tops OW Lee’s new reclaimed tabletop series is made of high-quality, reliable porcelain tiles in a slat-type design.

The eye-catching and versatile reclaimed-wood design comes in three different colorways.

Contact: www.owlee.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 121

Please visit us in our showroom #1574 at the International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market

Designed for comfort, elegance, and longevity, Jensen Leisure Furniture is masterfully constructed using only 100% FSC® certified wood.

S h ow r o o m # 1 574

|

www. j e n s e n l e i s u re f u r n i t u re.co m

Circle Reader Service No. 77

July/August 2014 Patio & Hearth Products Report

77

PRODUCT PROFILES 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: www.aeicorporation.com.

Carmel Coffee Table It is often said that the Pacific Coast Highway surrounding Carmel is a state of mind. The California Outdoor Concepts vision of the Carmel state of mind now provides two 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 different colors of glass—and you are in charge of them all. Contact: (877) 274-6773 or www.californiaoutdoorconcepts.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 125

Circle Reader Service No. 122

Delta Heat Premier Grill The all-new line of Delta Heat Premier grills includes significant design, performance, and feature improvements. LED control-panel lights; a sleek, redesigned exterior; and performance enhancements to the grilling system put these U.S.–made grills in a class of their own. They are available in 38-, 32-, and 26-inch models.

Built-in grills’ retail prices start at $1,529. Contact: www.DeltaHeat.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 123

Harmony Dining The 2015 Harmony dining collection from Veranda Classics is elegantly simple, with your choice of round or rectangular cast-aluminum–topped tables and aluminum stacking chairs or swivel rockers. Dedicated to simplifying the buying and selling process, Veranda Classics offers a variety of fabric options for Harmony, with cushions and throw pillows included in the price. A coordinating umbrella is available with every collection. Contact: www.VerandaClassics.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 126

Tivoli Bench The Jensen Leisure contemporary Tivoli 5-foot bench (153) and coffee table (155) are constructed of 100% Forest Stewardship Council–certified, solid roble heartwood. Roble has a smooth hand and a beautiful golden grain. The strength and durability of roble wood are similar to those of teak. The Tivoli collection is constructed using traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery, and it ships, disassembled, in a flat-pack carton. The Tivoli collection offers a clean, fresh look and consists of 11 SKUs, including five dining-group configurations with stackable armchairs and dining chairs, 4- and 5-foot garden benches, a chaise, and side and coffee tables. The company recommends letting the carefree natural finish weather to a silvery gray. Contact: www.jensenleisurefurniture.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 124

78

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

FPT-R1050T Firepit Enhance the ambience of your outdoor-living space and create a relaxing home resort with this contemporary firepit. The FPT-R1050T includes a four-piece firelog set and lava rocks; its stainless-steel burner emits 55,000 Btu using LP or natural gas. Its piezo ignition system is a battery-powered electronic-ignition on/off switch. You can customize the firepit with your choice of Ameristone™ stucco in five different colors, eight cultured-stone styles, and accent trim with porcelain tile or natural-stone tile. Contact: www.calflamebbq.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 127

St. Lucia Collection The St. Lucia collection by Alfresco Home is available in both dining and deep seating assortments. The new finish for the Alfresco Home cast-aluminum group is amazing grey, and this sophisticated and clean finish supports not only the gracious seating sizes of St. Lucia, but also the Mission-style table designs. Visit the company at #16-120 in the Merchandise Mart in Chicago, Illinois. Contact: www.alfrescohome.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 128

Sunbrella Rain 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. Sunbrella Rain is available in more than 200 Sunbrella upholstery fabrics and is covered by the same five-year limited warranty as other Sunbrella fabrics, including coverage against loss of color or strength from normal use, exposure to sunlight, mildew, and atmospheric chemicals. Contact: www.sunbrella.com.

XXLarge EGG

Circle Reader Service No. 129

Paris Dining by Kingsley-Bate Kingsley-Bate’s Paris collection has a sophisticated, modern design intersecting formal and casual dining. Durable all-weather wicker is expertly handwoven around a substantial teak frame. Exposed teak legs are treated with a gray-wash finish that complements the fiber.

The Paris collection includes a dining side chair and an armchair.

Contact: www.kingsleybate.com.

The biggest green EGG of them all—the unrivaled XXLarge EGG—can easily handle meals for family reunions or cookouts with large groups, and it is more than large enough to meet restaurant and catering needs. You’ll need a crowd to tackle all of the ribs, steaks, and burgers that this EGG can handle—all at once.

You can even roast a suckling pig. Explore all the culinary possibilities with the new XXLarge EGG. Contact: www.BigGreenEgg.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 131

Circle Reader Service No. 130

NEW F O R 2 0 1 5

Key West

COLLECTION

CHICAGO SHOWROOM | 222 MERCHANDISE MART | SUITE 106, 15TH FLOOR | CHICAGO, IL. USA 60654 TORONTO HEAD OFFICE SHOWROOM | 2111 McCOWAN RD. | TORONTO, ON. CANADA M1S 3Y6| 1 877.998.4427

www.LeisureDesign.ca Circle Reader Service No. 79

July/August 2014 Patio & Hearth Products Report

79

PRODUCT PROFILES Weekend Retreat Collection Release the stress and pressures of everyday life with the Weekend Retreat collection. Rediscover a time when the weekend really meant something: when it was a time to connect with self and loved ones. Classic and comfortable, the Weekend Retreat collection combines Comfort Plush seating with a traditional loom weave for real end-of-the-week relaxation. Contact: www.lloydflanders.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 132

Metropolitan Seating The 2015 Metropolitan deep seating collection from Veranda Classics boasts a new aluminum finish, called teak, that looks identical to real teak wood. The group includes a lounge, a chair, a love seat, a coffee table, and an end table with a serving tray.

Dedicated to simplifying the buying and selling process, Veranda Classics offers two fabric options for Metropolitan, with cushions and throw pillows included in the price. A coordinating umbrella is available with every collection. Contact: www.VerandaClassics.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 133

Panama Swivel Gathering Set A perfect blend of yesterday and today, the Panama swivel gathering set from the Inspired Visions collection by Peak Season features cast-aluminum accents, with a heavy extruded-aluminum frame and flared arms with a large woven-wicker back. The multistep, handgrained teak finish brings elegance and style to any setting. Contact: (205) 259-1793 or peakseasoninc.net.

Circle Reader Service No. 134

A Fresh New Look: 303 Protectant 303® Protectant™ is recommended by leading surface manufacturers. 303 Protectant provides superior protection against harmful UV rays that can cause loss of mechanical properties, with discoloration, fading, embrittlement, cracking, and/or chalking.

303 Protectant’s unique technology restores lost color and luster, providing surfaces with a like-new appearance and leaving no oily or greasy residue. As the company says, 303 has your number.

Contact: (800) 367-3245 or www.303products.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 135

Circle Reader Service No. 80

80

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Key West The name Key West makes people think about enjoying the very best of life outdoors. The Key West collection only adds to that enjoyment.

Whether you’re enjoying dining with friends or relaxing in the collection’s many deep seating combinations, Key West caters to your every desire.

Signature pieces such as double chaises and propane fire tables will create the perfect ambience for any outdoor gathering. All Key West pieces are made from aluminum and are all welded (except for the dining tables), so no assembly is necessary. The all-weather synthetic wicker is specifically designed for outdoor living. Cushions are made from Sunbrella®, the number-one fabric for outdoors, and that means that they will stand up to years of fun in the sun. Contact: (877) 998-4427 or www.LeisureDesign.ca.

Circle Reader Service No. 136

Flipping Funny Talking Spatula

BC25: 25-inch Beverage Chiller

The Flipping Funny™ talking spatula includes nine hilarious phrases guaranteed to bring a few laughs to your barbecue. It runs on two included AAA batteries, so you can go right to the grill with your new wisecracking spatula (CC1088). Contact: (800) 521-0505, sales@companion-group.com, or www.companion-group.com.

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: www.dcsappliances.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 137

Copper Bowl Series The Copper Bowl series by HPC is available in fire bowl or fire and water bowl models. Both models are fitted with either CSA-certified match-lit (MLFPK) or electronic-ignition (HWI) firepit inserts. Each unique, handcrafted, hammered-copper finish adds natural beauty to your fire feature. The Mesa model is shown. Contact: (877) 433-7001 or www.hpcfire.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 141

Circle Reader Service No. 138

senotherm UHT-Hydro UHT-Hydro from senotherm® is the first entirely water-based coating system—resistant to temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees—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. It’s available in various colors and (as UHT-Hydro Decor) is specially designed for grills and barbecues. Contact: (404) 219-2794 or (404) 994-2292, info@senotherm.us, or www.senotherm.us.

Circle Reader Service No. 139

Celaya Woven Mallin introduces the Celaya Woven collection for the 2015 season. A hit at the ICFA Preview Show™, the collection highlights a stunning banana-leaf wicker bucket. The curled arm and cast accents come together in an elegant profile that will bring a polished look to your backyard. Each piece sits as nicely as it looks, providing exceptional comfort.

Complement the set with sling and cushion pieces, including two new dining rockers. Contact: www.mallinfurniture.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 140

Circle Reader Service No. 81

July/August 2014 Patio & Hearth Products Report

81

PRODUCT PROFILES Flair From John Caldwell, the new Flair collection offers limitless outdoor-seating arrangements. With flared arms and open-air accent tables, the Flair collection provides unique styling with exceptional function. Stylish originality and comfort combine to make this a collection worthy of the most discerning homeowner. Contact: www.lloydflanders.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 142

Dynasty Electric Fireplace

Dining From Summerset Outdoor Living

Dynasty’s built-in Electric Fire represents the next chapter of the electric fireplace. Available in five different sizes, the Dynasty Electric Fire is easy to frame and install. The heat comes from the front of the fireplace. The flame can be adjusted to yellow or blue colors. This contemporary fireplace makes a beautiful addition to your customers’ homes. Contact: (877) 521-1009 or www.dynastyfireplaces.com.

Summerset Outdoor Living will give you the best offer for the most value, the company says. This stylish, sturdy, and plush dining set is available by container for only $995. This price includes four club chairs, deep seated cushions, and a 42-inch firepit. Contact: Tony@summersetol.com or www.summersetol.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 145

Circle Reader Service No. 143

Oceana A Fresh New Look: 303 Multi-Surface Cleaner 303® Multi-Surface Cleaner™ is the only cleaner recommended by Sunbrella® fabrics. Specially formulated to rinse residue free, 303 Multi-Surface Cleaner provides excellent value and cleaning power without the use of harmful chemicals that could damage the fabric or stitching. It’s safe for use on all water-safe fabrics and surfaces; as the company says, 303 has your number. Contact: (800) 367-3245 or www.303products.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 144

The Oceana is a heavy-duty umbrella series featuring a 2.5-inch–diameter, one-piece aluminum pole (in a choice of four powder-coated finish colors); 0.75-inch–diameter fiberglass ribs; and an enlarged, supersturdy nylon hub. This large-scale style is available in 9-, 11-, and 13-foot diameters and in 6-, 7.5-, and 10-foot square models—to provide shade across several chaises. Oceana is available from Paradise Cushions by FiberBuilt Umbrellas in a wide selection of marine- or furniture-grade solution-dyed acrylic fabrics. It’s pictured with the Aruba extra-large vent for superior stability in windy conditions.

Contact: (866) 667-8668 or www.paradisecushions.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 146

Aries Direct-vent Gas Fireplace Astria’s Aries direct-vent gas fireplace is truly a timeless contemporary design.

Ignition systems are available in either millivolt or energy-saving electronic versions, with seamless battery backup. With a choice of top or rear flue configurations, Aries comes standard with a black interior and black-glass media. It’s also available with platinum, reflective blue, Goldfinger, and copper glass media. It includes a built-in barrier for added safety. Contact: www.astria.us.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 147

82

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Laguna NorthCape International now offers new teak seating, dining, and accessory options for the 2015 season, in addition to its existing line of premium outdoor furniture. The Laguna collection is made of beautiful, worry-free teak, with plush deep seating cushions available in your choice of outdoor fabric. NorthCape’s teak collections are available as groups and as individual pieces to mix with your favorite NorthCape collection. The company is excited about adding the teak category to its product lineup, and it encourages you to contact your sales representative for more information about worry-free teak from NorthCape.

Contact: www.northcapeoutdoor.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 148

Cardiff

Classico Firepit

by OW Lee The new Classico firepit

by OW Lee is the ultimate addition to the Classico collection and also coordinates beautifully with other traditional iron styles. It has beautiful details, including a hammered wrought-iron rim and strap and rivet details on the base. Contact: www.owlee.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 149

Seaside by Patio Renaissance

Sunset West is proud to introduce the Cardiff collection. This collection features a thick, durable resin-wicker weave with a boxed seat and back cushion. The correct seating geometry and generous proportions of the group ensure hours of comfort and enjoyable entertaining in an outdoor greatroom.

The collection consists of a sectional, a sofa, a love seat, both fixed and swivel rocking club chairs, occasional tables, and an ottoman. There are also two sizes of dining tables, as well as barstools and counter stools—and no collection would be complete without Sunset West’s lounges, which help complete a favorite place to spend family time. Contact: www.sunsetwestusa.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 152

The new Seaside collection (shown in the willow finish) offers beauty, as well as durability. Crafted of high-grade aluminum, this stylish collection features beautiful dining and deep seating pieces. The weather-resilient Seaside collection is designed to last, year after year—offering customers the perfect investment for their backyards.

Contact: www.patiorenaissance.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 150

New Hardware From Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens Once the designer has made a style selection, further work may be specified to enhance the products and the overall project. The oxidation process that is used to create patinas is an accelerated version of natural exposure to time, touch, and environment. Repeated handling of the hardware will lead to the graceful wear of the patina. Contact: (855) 839-5063 or www.brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.

Circle Reader Service No. 151

Circle Reader Service No. 83

July/August 2014 Patio & Hearth Products Report

83

PRODUCT PROFILES Windward Chaise: 20-inch Seat Height The Neptune sling and strap collections from Windward Design Group offer 18- and 20-inch chaise seat-height options. With seat heights above that of the standard dining chair, this chaise is easy on the joints and meets ADA standards. Contact: www.windwarddesigngroup.com.

Expanded Gas Firepit Collections

Circle Reader Service No. 155

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. 153

Marco Isle Deep Seating Agio’s exciting Marco Isle deep seating collection includes a unique combination of all-weather wicker handwoven around durable, rust-free frames that feature a beautiful exposed-wood finish. The bold table designs and seating options give your customers an airy mix of choices for their outdoor rooms—which, in turn, gives you an edge on your retail floor. Add Agio to your product lineup today and discover the profits and the benefits of being an Agio retailer. Contact: www.agio-usa.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 156

Canvas Jockey Red Tufted Hammock Plush grommet-tufted contours cradle you as an overstuffed featherbed would in this Hatteras Hammocks® masterpiece of comfort. Two layers of solution-dyed, cottony-soft all-weather fabric—the top is Sunbrella® and the bottom is DuraCord®—sandwich a thick center of polyester-hollowfill fiber made from recycled plastic drink bottles. The spreader bars are richly grained South American cumaru, while the hanging hardware is zinc-plated steel. The hammock body measures 55x78 inches, with a total length of 13 feet. The tufted trapezoidal pillow comes included, though the Roman Arc® cypress hammock stand is sold separately. Contact: (800) 334-1078 or www.thehammocksource.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 154

New Evolution 360 Enclosure (WPE72ROUND-TB/CV) Designed to fit HPC’s popular Evolution 360 series are these waterpit inserts: sturdy, lightweight aluminum enclosures with modular, three-section construction. Features include a lockable access door and adjustable leveling feet. They have a powder-coated copper-vein top and frame with a flat-black base; ventilation is designed into the base. Contact: (877) 433-7001 or www.hpcfire.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 157

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: www.summersetgrills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 158

84

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Phifertex Outdoor Fabrics

Solair PS2000 Retractable Awning

Sleek, chic, and durable, Phifertex outdoor fabrics keep their cool under pressure. Quick drying and moisture wicking, these fabrics are constructed to withstand extreme weather conditions and are mildew, fade, and stain resistant. Phifertex is perfect for use in outdoor furniture, awnings, umbrellas, and unusual exterior applications. Available in an array of weaves, colors, and designs, these slings coordinate easily with traditional and contemporary outdoor decor. Contact: (800) 221-5497 or www.phifer.com.

Solair® retractable awnings deliver superior quality, style, and flexibility while offering retailers a seamless, no-inventory, high-margin opportunity.

The PS2000 comes in three widths, has a standard 10-foot 2-inch projection, and is available in over 150 Sunbrella® fabric patterns.

Contact: www.solair.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 162

Circle Reader Service No. 159

Stratford Sling

Ashbee Cushion

The Stratford sling collection makes its debut as part of Mallin’s 2015 season.

A crowd pleaser at the ICFA Preview Show™, the collection features a refreshing profile that is both modern and timelessly chic. The contoured sling brings unrivaled comfort to the dining group. For added presence, pair it with cushion seating and dining. Contact: www.mallinfurniture.com.

The clean, contemporary lines of the new Ashbee sectional cushion collection are a breath of fresh air in today’s crowded marketplace.

Create any custom arrangement to add timeless style to any home or resort. Contact: www.telescopecasual.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 163

Circle Reader Service No. 160

Paradise Cushions by FiberBuilt’s New Poufs Credenza by Patio Renaissance The new credenza by Patio Renaissance is the perfect addition to any outdoor room.

Shown in the willow finish (with barley woven accents), the credenza not only features an exquisite design that brings the indoors outdoors, but also serves as a useful storage piece.

Expertly crafted, this credenza provides a sense of style unlike that of ordinary patio furniture. Contact: www.patiorenaissance.com.

The Pouf is one of the hottest products of the season. This functional and decorative accessory works both as an ottoman and as occasional seating.

These fun pieces are lightweight (at only 4 pounds) and stackable for easy storage, and they provide the perfect accent for any seating area—indoors or outdoors. To accommodate all decor needs, the company offers two shapes: square (20x20x18 inches) and round (20 inches in diameter and 18 inches tall). Poufs are filled with durable polystyrene beads inside a protective nonwoven-fabric insert, and they are upholstered in a wide array of furniture-grade Sunbrella® acrylic fabrics. Contact: (866) 667-8668 or www.paradisecushions.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 164

Circle Reader Service No. 161

July/August 2014 Patio & Hearth Products Report

85

PRODUCT PROFILES GeoBella Indoor/Outdoor Cushion Fabrics Beautiful, earth friendly, and made from recycled yarns, GeoBella® is Phifer’s unique line of high-end, high-performance indoor/outdoor cushion fabrics. These 100% recyclable furniture fabrics are perfect for indoor use, yet have the stability, strength, and durability needed to withstand the elements. GeoBella fabrics feature color combinations and designs in traditional and contemporary weaves and are exceptionally durable, fade resistant, stain resistant, and easy to clean—even with bleach.

Contact: (800) 221-5497 or www.phifer.com.

Belle Isle Cushion The sweeping lines of the new Belle Isle cushion collection lend themselves to traditional or contemporary looks with countless frame, marine-grade polymer (MGP), and cushion choices. The wide MGP arms are comfortable in any climate. Contact: www.telescopecasual.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 168

Titan Circular Sofa

Circle Reader Service No. 165

Modular-furniture Covers Treasure Garden introduces a revolutionary new way to cover modular outdoor furniture. For the first time in the market, innovative modular covers can protect individual furniture styles and can be joined together to create unlimited configurations. The result of an extensive research/development process, this new collection is designed to accommodate the growing trend in sectional and modular outdoor furnishings. Covers are available in colorful and easy-to-merchandise packaging. Six modular styles are available within the collection, including left and right ends and complementing middle, corner, wedge, and extension styles.

Contact: (888) 821-8868 or www.treasuregarden.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 166

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: www.DeltaHeat.com.

Summerset Outdoor Living announces the launch of its new Titan woven circular sofa with firepit—the perfect focal point for your customer’s backyard. There are 16 sets to a container, and the initial dealer cost is $1,800 per set, with Sunbrella® cushions of your choice. Contact: Tony@summersetol.com or www.summersetol.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 169

Majestic Patriot Direct-vent Fireplace System Designed with the home builder or renovator in mind, the new Patriot system from Majestic 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. You’ll be proud to offer the Majestic Patriot to your customers. Contact: www.majesticproducts.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 170

Circle Reader Service No. 167

Corsica Cushion by Tropitone

The new Corsica cushion models use the same Tropitone® brand exclusive RELAXplus® cushion system introduced in 2012, providing the comfort and durability of indoor furniture, but designed for the demands of the outdoors. The eight new Corsica cushion models include a crescent love seat, a crescent sofa, a love seat, a sofa, a lounge chair, an action lounger, a swivel action lounger, and an ottoman. The high-back design delivers sink-in comfort while providing head support. The cushions are available in any of Tropitone’s wide range of cushion fabrics. Contact: www.tropitone.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 171

86

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

senotherm Classic

Siesta Key Sectional The Siesta Key sectional from the Inspired Visions collection by Peak Season offers both personal configuration and the comfort of your family-room sofa—with the modern advances of all-aluminum construction and Sunbrella® fabrics for durability. This group features gorgeous, handwoven multigrain wicker and a handpainted grained-aluminum chat table (with optional baskets that provide hidden storage). The Siesta Key sectional invites relaxation and long, meaningful conversations with family and friends. Contact: (205) 259-1793 or peakseasoninc.net.

Circle Reader Service No. 172

The leading high-temperature coating in Europe, with resistance of up to 1,200 degrees, is now available in the United States. senotherm® Classic is available in a wide variety of colors and effects, including colorful shades and metallics, in addition to being available, in aerosol form, as touch-up paint. High-solids versions increase coverage, reduce paint use, and reduce solvent emissions. Contact: (404) 219-2794 or (404) 994-2292, info@senotherm.us, or www.senotherm.us.

Circle Reader Service No. 174

The Duet Along with the Vision, the first and only EPA-approved see-through stove, this year, Supreme introduced a clean-faced, noncatalytic, EPA-approved see-through fireplace. With low emissions (averaging 3.6 grams per hour), the Duet is the industry’s cleanest-burning and largest see-through fireplace—big enough to accommodate 24-inch logs. This fireplace is highly efficient, with output tested at 100,000 Btu per hour. It comes completely assembled, with two heat-activated blowers, a sealed ash pan, and a built-in barbecue grill.

Both doors are functional, which allows the user to load the fireplace (or cook) from either side. The Duet also can be installed with one side indoors and the other side outdoors. The fireplace has three patents, including one for the air control. Contact: www.supremem.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 175

Solair PS5000 Retractable Awning Solair® retractable awnings enrich the comfort of outdoor-living spaces by providing extended shade, UV protection, and energy savings. The top-of-the-line Solair PS5000 has three available projections and can be custom built to any width of 10 to 25 feet. The PS5000 is available in more than 150 Sunbrella® fabric patterns.

Contact: www.solair.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 173

060SQ Umbrella Base Galtech introduces the SR series commercial umbrella base, new for 2015. Available in 60- and 85-pound sizes, these silver powder-coated bases are the ideal match for Galtech’s signature SR series line of commercial market umbrellas. Contact: www.galtechcorp.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 176

Wescott New for the 2015 season, the Wescott collection from NorthCape International features a gorgeous, richly toned mahogany wide-weave HDPE resin over a commercial-grade aluminum frame. This premium deep seating group features a contemporary, wide-arm design and plush wraparound cushions for additional comfort. Wescott is available in your choice of premium outdoor fabrics, and it offers a variety of pieces to outfit your outdoor space fully. When you’re looking for style, comfort, and value, take a fresh look at NorthCape. Contact: www.northcapeoutdoor.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 177

July/August 2014 Patio & Hearth Products Report

87

PRODUCT PROFILES Spasso for Tropitone Moda The Spasso group’s styling completely captures the polished, cultured, and urbane personality of the Tropitone® Moda™ brand.

Spasso is also the first to use two of Tropitone’s new innovative design features: first, removable upholstered covers that make easy replacement of the outer cover possible, and second, a versatile linking system that allows seating, ottoman, and accessory-table models to be ganged together in various lengths and patterns. Spasso’s styling, removable upholstery covers, and linking system represent the seamless integration of form and function for which Tropitone Furniture Company has long been recognized. Contact: www.tropitone.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 178

Treasure Garden Outdoor Rugs Treasure Garden introduced eight new outdoor-rug styles for 2015 at the ICFA Preview Show™ and will showcase them again at the Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™.

These outdoor rugs are sold exclusively through Treasure Garden’s retail partners that are already selling Treasure Garden shade products. Made with high quality in Belgium, these beautiful rugs include a one-year fading warranty. Pictured is the Garden Cottage rug in blueberry (shown with the UM9203 9-foot push-button–tilt umbrella). Contact: (888) 821-8868 or www.treasuregarden.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 181

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: www.monessenhearth.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 179

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. 182

Windward MGP Chaise With Wheels Windward Design Group, U.S. manufacturer of outdoor furniture, provides extra value with the option of adding wheels to its marine-grade polymer (MGP) chaises in both the Hampton and Cape Cod collections. Wheels allow easy maneuverability by any user, and since the wheels are made of MGP, they blend in with the chaise leg and will not rust like other wheel options. Contact: www.windwarddesigngroup.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 180

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: www.summersetgrills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 183

88

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Circle Reader Service No. 89

ADVERTISER INDEX Advertiser

PRODUCT PROFILES DIRECTORY Phone

Website

Page

Company

Page

AEI ............................................................(949) 474-3070 ..............www.aeicorporation.com ..............................11

AEI ................................................................................................................72, 78

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

Agio................................................................................................................70, 84

Alfresco Home ..........................................(610) 705-8808 ..............www.alfresco.com ........................................18

Alfresco Home................................................................................................68, 79

Big Green Egg ..........................................(770) 938-9394 ..............www.biggreenegg.com ................................62

Big Green Egg................................................................................................70, 79

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens ..............(855) 839-5063 ..............www.brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com ........22 Cal Flame/Cal Spas ..................................(800) CAL-SPAS..............www.calflamebbq.com....................................9 California Outdoor Concepts ....................(877) 274-6773 ..............www.californiaoutdoorconcepts.com ............45

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens ....................................................................72, 83 Cal Flame/Cal Spas........................................................................................72, 78 California Outdoor Concepts ..........................................................................70, 78

The Companion Group ............................(800) 521-0505 ..............www.companion-group.com ........................51 The Companion Group ..................................................................................72, 81 Couristan ..................................................(800) 223-6186 ..............www.couristan.com ......................................41 DCS by Fisher & Paykel ............................(888) 936-7872 ..............www.dcsappliances.com ..............................33 Dynasty Fireplaces ....................................(877) 521-1009 ..............www.dynastyfireplaces.com ..........................73 Empire Comfort Systems ..........................(800) 851-3153 ..............www.empirecomfort.com ..............................31

Couristan........................................................................................................68, 72 Delta Heat/Twin Eagles ..................................................................................78, 86 DCS by Fisher & Paykel..................................................................................70, 81

Galtech......................................................(805) 376-1060 ..............www.galtechcorp.com ..................................59

Dynasty Fireplaces ........................................................................................70, 82

Gensun Casual Living ..............................(866) 964-4468 ..............www.gensuncasual.com ..............................25

Empire Comfort Systems................................................................................74, 76

Glen Raven/Sunbrella................................(336) 221-2211 ..............www.sunbrella.com ......................................19

Galtech ..........................................................................................................74, 87

Glen Raven/Sunbrella/Rain........................(336) 221-2211 ..............www.trade.sunbrella.com/rain ......................21

Gensun Casual Living ....................................................................................74, 84

Gold Eagle/303 Products..........................(800) 367-3245 ..............www.303products.com ................................15

Glen Raven/Sunbrella ..........................................................................................74

The HammockSource ..............................(800) 334-1078 ..............www.thehammocksource.com......................80

Glen Raven/Sunbrella/Rain ..................................................................................79

Hanley Wood ............................................(866) 490-3097 ..............www.poolspapatio.com ................................91

Gold Eagle/303 Products ..............................................................................80, 82

Hearth Products Controls..........................(877) 433-7001 ..............www.hpcfire.com ..........................................49

The HammockSource ....................................................................................76, 84

Homecrest ................................................(877) 599-4803 ..............www.homecrest.com ....................................46 Innovative Hearth Products ......................(800) 655-2008 ..............www.astria.us.com ........................................47 Jensen Leisure Furniture ..........................(800) 403-0403 ..............www.jensenleisurefurniture.com ....................77 Kingsley-Bate ............................................(703) 361-7000 ..............www.kingsleybate.com..................................54

Hearth Products Controls ..............................................................................81, 84 Homecrest ..............................................................................................68, 74, 76 Innovative Hearth Products ............................................................................76, 82 Jensen Leisure Furniture ................................................................................68, 78

Las Vegas Market ....................................(702) 599-8113 ..............www.imcenters.com......................................89 Kingsley-Bate ................................................................................................77, 79 Leisure Design ..........................................(877) 998-4427 ..............www.leisuredesign.ca ....................................79 Lloyd Flanders ..........................................(800) 526-9894 ..............www.lloydflanders.com..................................53 Mallin Casual ............................................(800) 251-6537 ..............www.mallinfurniture.com ..............................57 MLW Stone ..............................................(800) 477-7665 ..............www.mlwstone.com......................................83

Leisure Design................................................................................................74, 81 Lloyd Flanders .............................................................................................. 80, 82 Mallin Casual ..................................................................................................81, 85

Napoleon Products ..................................(800) 461-5581 ..............www.napoleonproducts.com ..........................7

MLW Stone ..........................................................................................................76

NorthCape International ............................(708) 563-2890 ..............www.northcapeinternational.com ..................43

Napoleon Products ........................................................................................68, 77

Outdoor Lifestyle Furniture ........................(800) 294-4758 ..............www.olfurniture.com......................................63

NorthCape International..................................................................................83, 87

OW Lee ....................................................(800) 776-9533 ..............www.owlee.com............................................92

OW Lee..........................................................................................................77, 83

Paradise Cushions by FiberBuilt................(866) 667-8668 ..............www.paradisecushions.com..........................81

Paradise Cushions by FiberBuilt ....................................................................82, 85

Patio Renaissance ....................................(866) 698-5673 ..............www.patiorenaissance.com ..........................61

Patio Renaissance..........................................................................................83, 85

Peak Season ............................................(205) 259-1793 ..............www.peakseasoninc.net..................................2

Peak Season ..................................................................................................80, 87

Phifer ........................................................(800) 221-5497 ..............www.phifer.com ............................................23

Phifer..............................................................................................................85, 86

Solair ........................................................(888) 403-7052 ..............www.solair.com ............................................13 Summerset Outdoor Living ......................(951) 684-5090 ..............www.summersetol.com ................................75 Summerset Professional Grills ..................(800) 966-8126 ..............www.summersetgrills.com ............................55

Solair ..............................................................................................................85, 87 Summerset Outdoor Living ............................................................................82, 86 Summerset Professional Grills ........................................................................84, 88

Sunset West..............................................(760) 599-1021 ..............www.sunsetwestusa.com..............................69 Sunset West ..................................................................................................72, 83 Supreme Fireplace ....................................(877) 593-4722 ..............www.supremem.com ......................................3 Telescope Casual ......................................(800) 451-0938 ..............www.telescopecasual.com............................65 Treasure Garden........................................(888) 821-8868 ..............www.treasuregarden.com ............................67 Tropitone ..................................................(949) 951-2010 ..............www.tropitone.com ......................................39

Supreme Fireplace ..................................................................................68, 87, 88 Telescope Casual ..........................................................................................85, 86 Treasure Garden ............................................................................................86, 88

Twin Eagles/Delta Heat ............................(800) 789-2206 ..............www.twineaglesbbq.com ..............................35

Tropitone ........................................................................................................86, 88

Veranda Classics by Foremost..................(800) 443-1410 ..............www.foremostgroups.com ............................38

Veranda Classics by Foremost ................................................................70, 78, 80

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

Vermont Castings Group ................................................................................86, 88

Weilburger Coatings..................................(404) 219-2794 ..............www.senotherm.us........................................71

Weilburger Coatings ......................................................................................81, 87

Windward Design Group ..........................(941) 359-0890 ..............www.windwarddesigngroup.com ..................27

Windward Design Group ................................................................................84, 88

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.

July/August 2014, Vol. 9, No. 4 Š 2014 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.

90

Patio & Hearth Products Report July/August 2014

Circle Reader Service No. 91

速

CAMBRIA NEW WROUGHT IRON FROM OW LEE

2010

2012

2013

Voted by Casual Furniture Industry Retailers

ICFA Manufacturer of the Year Circle Reader Service No. 92