Patio & Hearth Products Report Jan/Feb 2010

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O MEGA M ANTELS

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O XFORD G ARDEN

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L ENNOX H EARTH P RODUCTS

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Circle Reader Service No. 2

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Co n t e n t s JANUARY/FEBRUARY

2010 • VOLUME 5, NUMBER 1

63

26

30

48

FEATURES 8

Guest Editorial – Taking Your Business to the Next Level of Success

22

BY CRAIG SHANKSTER

The president of Morsø USA, manufacturer of energy-efficient stoves, explains why a strategic marketing plan is critical for retailers.

Hearth Retailer Profile – Small Details Yield Big Results

30

18

Spotlight – Signs of Cautious Optimism for Fireplace Sales

24

BY SHARON SANDERS

BY CHERYL DANGEL CULLEN

As the recipient of the 2009 Apollo Award in the multistore category, Fishels is recognized for excellence in the casual-furniture industry.

Treasure Garden’s new division, Shademaker, is drawing lots of attention from those in the casual-furniture industry.

Marth Helps Reduce Carbon Footprints

BY SHARON SANDERS

As the economy turns around, manufacturers are predicting that fireplace sales will heat up in 2010.

Wood-pellet manufacturer Marth has become a leading force in the advocacy of green fuel.

26

Barbecue/Grill Retailer Profile – Backyard Bistros Catch on in Canada

BY KIMBERLY RODGERS

BY CAROL DAUS

Fortunoff has created a new outdoor-living chain in New York and New Jersey with help from Houstonbased The Chair King.

Business is booming for Aurora, Ontario-based Outdoor Luxury as increasing numbers of Canadians create outdoor kitchens.

34

A Stronger, Better Homecrest

28

A New Kamado Draws Kudos

BY SHARON SANDERS

BY KIMBERLY RODGERS

After almost closing its doors two years ago, Homecrest has created a new business model that focuses on dealers.

Retailers and customers are responding positively to the Kamado Joe, a new ceramic-style cooker that delivers great taste and easy cleanup.

ON THE COVER

PHOTO COURTESY OF OMEGA MANTELS OF STONE

4 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

Giving Customers What They Want

46

Last Word – The Outdoorkitchen Craze Continues

BY SHARON SANDERS

BY KIMBERLY RODGERS

Suncoast Furniture is a major player in the casual-furniture industry because it offers fresh designs, as well as competitive prices.

Bull Outdoor Products is known for manufacturing high-quality, valuedriven outdoor-living products— from islands and grill heads to fireplaces and firepits.

As I See It – Warming Up the Look of Fireplaces

BY SHARON SANDERS

Since 2006, Omega Mantels of Stone has been outfitting some of the most beautiful homes in the United States and Canada with stunning stone mantels.

38 20

Product Innovation – The Next Big Thing

By focusing on small things, the owner of The Alaskan Fireplace Company/Fireside Hearth & Home has transformed his business to become a high-profile hearth retailer.

BY CHERYL DANGEL CULLEN

Marketing Maneuvers – Fortunoff Teams Up With The Chair King

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BY SHARON SANDERS

32 14

Showroom Showcase – Fishels Changes With the Times

My Turn – Holland Grill Company Uses Demos to Spark Sales

DEPARTMENTS 6

Satisfaction – Publisher’s Viewpoint and Editor’s Message

10

Industry News – Edited by Kris Kyes

48

Product Profiles

78

Product Profiles Directory

78

Ad Index

BY KIMBERLY RODGERS

Holland Grill Company has increased sales in a down economy through its community-outreach efforts.

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Industry News Edited by Kris Ky es

Palm Springs Rattan & Garden Classics Offers Quick-shipment Capabilities With the belt-tightening trend occurring throughout the retail industry, a need has grown to provide end consumers with high-quality products without the challenges of warehousing. For 2010, Palm Springs Rattan & Garden Classics®, wholesale manufacturer and distributor of high-quality casual furnishings, has enhanced its quick-shipment capabilities to meet this need.

Since 1998, Palm Springs Rattan & Garden Classics has been the answer for a growing number of retailers, with extensive inventory of the latest product designs, a computerized inventory system, a responsive customer-service department, and a proven shipment facility.

“We have seen, over the years, an increase in demand for fast availability—not only for retailers without large warehousing capabilities, but also from those with shorter seasons, for which bringing in extensive inven-

The Boca Bay collection fr Palm Springs Rattan

Hearth & Home Technologies: A Great Place to Work

om

tories has become prohibitive,” Tami Newton, director of sales and marketing, explains.

“Our entire operation is designed to meet the demands found in today’s retail marketplace.” For more information about Palm Springs Rattan & Garden Classics, visit www.palmspringsrattan.com or contact Tami Newton at sales@palmspringsrattan.com.

Gabby Makes Its Debut abby™, which calls itself a new company with an old soul, is making its mark at the 2010 AmericasMart in Atlanta, Georgia, with a wide range of fine interior furnishings designed to appeal to clients with a taste for old-world refinement and uncompromising comfort. Gabby meets that need with beautiful, highly functional designs inspired by classic European designs.

Each piece is handcrafted using materials that communicate warmth, luxury, and quality at first touch.

Many of the products are made with reclaimed wood that, in its former life, could have been the door of an Bew White (left), pr esident of Summer Classics, and old building, with its planks silvered and faded by his son, W illiam White, pr esident of Gabby decades of morning sun.

Gabby was founded in 2009 and draws on 30 years of experience from its parent company, Summer Classics.

Many of the new company’s individually handcrafted pieces are built with a combination of unique materials.

Gabby will launch its Web site (www.gabbyhome.com) and a full catalog in February 2010. The company will continue to expand, adding to the more than 350 dealers currently retailing the parent company’s outdoor products throughout the United States.

G

Teaming Up: Schou USA and Margaritaville Enterprises Schou USA and Margaritaville® Enterprises, Inc., have formed a partnership for the design and marketing of a new collection of outdoor furniture and accessories based on the internationally popular Margaritaville lifestyle. Colorful, high-energy pieces will include beach furniture, umbrellas, pavilions, dining and deep seating sets, and a wide range of accessories for outdoor entertaining. The Schou collection will be the most extensive line of Margaritaville-branded products developed to date,

targeting a core consumer following numbered in the millions worldwide.

“Our partnership is focused on creating outdoor furniture and accessories that will invite people to kick back, relax, and immerse themselves in a lifestyle that relishes good friends and good times,” Chris Curran, president of Schou USA, explains. “We will create products truly unlike anything on the market today.”

The idea for the partnership originated with Bruce Masden, vice president of sales for Schou USA. Masden had long recognized the value of the Margaritaville brand and the niche available for a line of outdoor furnishings to make the brand come to life.

10 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

From left: Heather Houser , Rich Bodensteiner , and Linda W ilson of Hearth & Home T echnologies

H

earth & Home Technologies (Lake City, Minnesota) was named one of the best places to work in the Over 100 Employees category by the Workforce Investment Board of Southeast Minnesota. This is the second year in a row that Hearth & Home Technologies has received this distinction. Data were measured for such parameters as turnover, growth, employee training/development, promotion rates, employee evaluations and feedback, percentage of employee injuries, diversity of management, benefits offered, average paid days off, and increases in pay.

Henning Meyer-W oll

A Novel Approach to Marketing the Steven Raichlen Best of Barbecue Brand Barbecue Masters, European distributor for a number of brands manufactured by The Companion Group, announced this week an unprecedented marketing campaign for its Steven Raichlen Best of Barbecue™ brand in its Norwegian market. The idea came from Henning Meyer-Woll, official sales representative for the Best of Barbecue line in Norway.

Just as many U.S. residents are, “Norwegians are dependent on cars for getting around,” he says. “Since I

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Ari Gasner Joins Wearbest Sil-Tex Mills Ltd.

I Ari Gasner

rwin Gasner, president and CEO of Wearbest Sil-Tex Mills Ltd., is pleased to announce the new brand manager for Bella-Dura™, his son Ari Gasner (now the fourth generation to join the family-owned mill). Ari has entered the textile business after spending five years in the commercial–real-estate industry.

His father says, “Ari will be an extreme asset to the company; he will bring a new flavor and bright ideas, coming from a different industry. He is a natural-born merchant, and this will be an easy transition for him.”Ari plans to expand Bella-Dura throughout the casual market by adding new patterns and fresh colors on top of a 100% cradle-to-cradle fabric.

In the coming months, Wearbest is partnering with distributors to offer cut-yardage programs that will allow for shorter lead times. Ari will be based in the company’s studio in New York, New York.

drive around more than the average salesperson, I thought ‘What about using my car as a giant advertising poster?’ The idea became reality and gets a lot of attention.” Meyer-Woll also sells propane cylinders and LP gas for cars. The Steven Raichlen branded car runs on LP gas, which is “a better solution for the environment and a more reasonably priced product than gas,” according to Meyer-Woll.

Sarah Farrar, sales manager of special markets for The Companion Group, adds,“We are so impressed with the initiative of our European distributor to expose consumers to our Best of Barbecue brand. We’ve never seen anything like this before and eagerly anticipate how this marketing strategy translates into sales for our international markets.”

Hart & Cooley Introduces New Web Sites Hart & Cooley, Inc., has launched its new and improved series of Web sites for both corporate and brand-specific information. The Web sites are designed to deliver product information, as well as news and online tools for each of the company’s product lines.

Featuring a common look and format, in addition to ease of navigation, the new sites effectively integrate the company’s business areas to assist customers. For more information, visit www.hartandcooleyinc.com.

EcoSmart Fire Products Available at Patioworld

EcoSmart Fir e’s pr oducts include both fr built-in fir eplaces.

eestanding and

The Fire Company, manufacturer and distributor of EcoSmart™ Fire environmentally friendly open fireplaces, has announced the availability of its fireplace products in Patioworld stores, California’s largest selection of premium and exclusive outdoor furnishings and accessories. Patioworld showrooms feature an extensive assortment of exclusive products from both international and domestic manufacturers of fine outdoor furniture, and they will now also carry the EcoSmart Fire product line.

Alexander Eburne, vice president of sales and marketing for EcoSmart Fire USA, says, “We are very excited to partner with Patioworld and have our EcoSmart Fireplaces available at their stores. This economy calls for diversification, and by having our products available at Patioworld stores, we are able to introduce new customers (who might not have otherwise known about the products) to our eco-friendly fireplace lines.”

EcoSmart Fire products include both freestanding and built-in fireplaces that are vent free and do not require any installation or utility connection for their fuel supply. Fueled by denatured ethanol (alcohol)—a renewable, modern energy source—EcoSmart Fires burn clean and are virtually maintenance free.

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Industry News LeisureLiving Holds Kickoff Conference in Dallas

2009 International Pool/Spa/Patio Expo Drew a Full House Proving still to be one of the most highly trusted sources for leading-edge products, education, and networking, the 2009 International Pool/Spa/Patio Expo concluded its 2009 event amid much energy and excitement. Held November 16–18 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, the show exceeded the expectations of attendees—who found a wide collection of products, services, and technologies—while exhibitors were pleased with solid attendance.

Total attendance was 9,118 (825 fewer verified attendees than the 2008 show had). Attendees included pool/spa builders/installers, retailers, service companies, landscape architects/design agencies, and manufacturers.

Ther e was a str ong tur n out for Leisur eLiving’s first annual Dealer Market and Confer

ence in December 2009.

Buying Group Services introduced LeisureLiving at its first annual Dealer Market and Conference in Dallas, Texas, on December 5–6, 2009, at the Hilton Anatole. LeisureLiving Buying Group is dedicated to dealers in the residential outdoor-product sales, design, and building fields. LeisureLiving provides services to reduce the overall costs of doing business, increase profitability, advance professional skills, and bring awareness of the industry to consumers.

Vendors attending included Atlantis Outdoor Kitchens, Artisan, Bullfrog Spas, Dal-Tile Corp., Danver, Lynx Professional Grills, Neu Tradition Millwork, Pride Family Brands, Sea Gull Lighting, Summer Classics, Suncoast Furniture, The Stock Market, WarmlyYours, and Whirlpool/KitchenAid. For more information, visit www.leisurelivinggroup.com or contact Glynne Morgan, director of membership, at (713) 723-3545 or glynne@thebgs.com.

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12 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

Hearth & Home Technologies Teams Up With NFI Hearth & Home Technologies (HHT), the world’s leading provider of fireplaces, inserts, and stoves, has launched a new partnership with the National Fireplace Institute (NFI). The program provides NFI certification materials and testing at discounted rates for top-tier HHT dealers and installing distributors, who are required to have at least one NFI-certified specialist on staff.Through NFI, the specialists are tested on the knowledge required

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for careful planning and safe installation of hearth appliances and venting systems.

“This is a win–win for our dealers, HHT, and NFI,” Laurie Hanson, HHT’s training and development manager, says. “Dealers and installing distributors benefit from discounted pricing and convenience, and all parties will benefit from having more NFI-certified specialists in the field.”

The NFI certification materials and exam registration are available to HHT dealers and installing distributors online via HHT’s exclusive Hearthville training Web site 24/7. In addition, they can access HHT-provided training webinars at no charge through the Hearthville Web site.

NFI testing is then conducted at LaserGrade proctored, computerized testing centers located throughout the United States and Canada.

“For both safety and performance reasons, the design and installation of hearth products require considerable technical knowledge,” Kristi Long, executive director of the HPB Education Foundation, explains.“We are excited to partner with HHT to make NFI certification possible for more dealers across North America.”

World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest: May 13–15 in Memphis The annual Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest will be held May 13–15 in Tom Lee Park in downtown Memphis, Tennessee.

Hundreds of teams will compete for over $110,000 in prizes and for supreme bragging rights.

While grilling is the main theme, the contest wouldn’t be complete without the Ms. Piggie Idol competition, where grown men dress in tutus and snouts and women kick up their heels (hooves). There is also a T-

shirt competition, and there is even a best-booth contest. The deadline for entering is February 15, 2010. For more information, visit www.memphisinmay.org.

Lucky Distributing Announces New Sales Positions

Summer Classics Helps Fund Cancer Research

Lucky Distributing, a 70–year-old, family-owned business based in Portland, Oregon, has made two recent appointments. Jim Markey will assume the position of national sales manager for its Hearth and Home Division. Markey brings more than 30 years of sales experience to the hearth and home industry.

In addition, JoLynne Hoy has been appointed regional sales manager for the Hearth and Home Division. Hoy will be responsible for leading all sales activities in California, Nevada, and Texas. Lucky Distributing is an importer/distributor of multifuelburning fireplaces and stoves, hearth and home accessories, outdoor power equipment, and energyefficient products for the home.

Crimson Casual Introduces New U.S.-made Casual Furniture Halo fr om Summer Classics

Summer Classics will donate a percentage of sales for all pieces in the Halo group to ovarian-cancer research.

Each piece of Halo will come with special hangtags and point-of-purchase material that dealers can display in their stores to promote the cause. Summer Classics has launched this program in memory of Susan Lambeth, who lost her three-year battle with ovarian cancer in 2009. She had represented the Summer Classics line for more than 15 years in North and South Carolina.

The founders of Crimson Casual believe that made in the United States is still a phrase to be proud of, and when they make that statement, it’s true in every sense.

Others assemble products in the United States from pieces made in other countries, but Crimson Casual (Haleyville, Alabama) uses raw materials from Tennessee, Florida, Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Alabama, as well as machinery made in Ohio, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

Even the forklifts in the plant were U.S. made. The product is 100% U.S. made by U.S. workers—the best in the world, the company states.

Crimson Casual has been in the planning stages since February 2009. The management team, which Continued on page 77

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Spotlight Signs of Cautious Optimism f or Fireplace Sales WRITTEN BY CHERYL DANGEL CULLEN

The Vogue fir eplace fr om Miles Industries featur es an elegant, clean smokedglass surr ound.

The RED series fr om Heat & Glo has beautiful lines and linear appeal, and it has a variety of stone and glass media options.

HEARTH MANUFACTURERS PREDICT that 2010 will BRING a new SPIKE in fireplace SALES. Monessen’s Belmont dir ectvent fir eplace is shown her e with a por celain black liner and contemporary glass kit.

Napoleon’s HD35 dir ect-vent gas fir eplace boasts a simple (yet sophisticated) design.

WITH NATURAL-GAS PRICES LOW AND THE ECONOMY SHOWING SOME SIGNS OF TURNING AROUND, MANUFACTURERS ARE PREDICTING THAT 2010 WILL HEAT UP FIREPLACE SALES. PAUL MILES IS DIRECTOR OF SALES, MILES INDUSTRIES LTD. (North Vancouver, British Columbia), manufacturer of Valor fireplaces. He says, “Sales already have picked up for the past four months, and they continue to be strong. The retail renovation market has been the most stable. Natural-gas prices have been low and will stay low, making gas the best and cleanest choice for fireplaces.”

Jeni Forman, vice president of dealer marketing at Hearth & Home Technologies™ (Lakeville, Minnesota), adds, “We are beginning to see an increase in

activity both in new construction and in the remodeling market.”

Greg Thomas, director of sales at Napoleon® Fireplaces & Grills (Barrie, Ontario) notes that while the economy has some dealers struggling to keep their doors open, he sees bright spots. Topping his list is what he notes is a “huge increase in gas-insert sales.” Thomas also records an increase in Napoleon’s outdoor-product category due to the desire for outdoor rooms, as well as growth in the modern category—especially with custom builders and commercial applications.

DIFFERENTIATION IS KEY

14 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

There appears to be consensus that going forward,

builders will be looking to fireplace manufacturers for something new. Miles explains, “New housing will improve, and builders will look for new designs and technology to differentiate their products.”

Forman is optimistic that fireplace sales will remain strong. She says, “Despite the economy, people continue to recognize the overall value a hearth appliance brings to their homes.” To that end, value is what manufacturers are bringing to market this year.

“Fireplaces must have the capability of being part of smart homes,” Miles explains. “Valor has always stressed the comfort aspect of our products, and this won’t change. What will change is technology to control fireplaces and provide the maximum effect with the minimum amount of fuel.”

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Meet the new face of efficiency. And oh, what a lovely face it is! The Mantis fireplace couples the efficiency of a 90-plus central furnace with the elegant styling of a contemporary fireplace. The gorgeous flames and a sleek design are sure to turn heads, while unrivaled performance and extraordinary installation versatility make the Mantis the perfect balance of form and function.

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by E mpire C o mfo rt S yste ms

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Spotlight Napoleon is now working on some new direct-vent gas fireplaces, both modern and traditional, as well as on new pellet and wood products; many of these will be shown at HPBExpo in Orlando, Florida, in March. The company is also working on revamping one of its gas inserts and on new fronts and door kits for gas fireplaces.

Meanwhile, Hearth & Home Technologies continues to focus on innovation, with recent product introductions in wood, pellet, and direct-vent gas fireplaces. Heatilator is launching the PureSky, a clean-burning wood fireplace designed to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fine-particle (PM2.5) standards in nonattainment areas across the country.

Heat & Glo has introduced the new RED series of modern landscape fireplaces in 40- and 60-inch sizes, with a variety of media options available to customize them to meet homeowners’ needs. Heat & Glo has also introduced the new 6000-8000 C series of directvent gas fireplaces. “For many years, the 6000 has been the bread and butter for Heat & Glo, and this new and improved model lineup is following suit,” Forman says. Quadra-Fire continues to promote its EDGE 60, which uses the company’s Advanced Energy technology to burn

multiple types of fuel.

Monessen Hearth Systems Company (Paris, Kentucky) has a very aggressive new-product–introduction plan for 2010 as well. “All of our brands will have new units to sell for the heating season,” Zach Tweardy, product planning manager, states. “We are forever adding accessories or making improvements to existing products.”

The company will round out its contemporary offering by introducing a larger version of its 42-inch wide-view fireplace, as well as a see-through version.

Tweardy says, “We have some new, innovative technology to add to our woodstove offering in our Vermont Castings line, along with some new wood and gas inserts. We are introducing a line of touchscreen remote controls under our Ambient Technologies brand that will allow our fireplaces to operate even more efficiently then they do now.”

places in 2009, and we were very pleased with the results—so pleased that we have two more contemporary designs in the plan for the early part of 2010.”

Miles adds, “Contemporary design has been a big part of our new-product design for the past two years. Having said that, the traditional designs have also been cleaned up, and still make up a sizable part of our business.” Forman says, “We have experienced a significant uptick in interest for these contemporary fireplaces over the past few years. It appears that modern fireplace design is not a fad, and that it is here to stay.”

Thomas cautions that the modern product trend still has a long way to go, “but as more retailers put them on the floor and, we hope, as more builders offer them, the demand will grow,” he predicts. “These products appeal greatly to the new generation, where floor space will be a primary concern.”

IN WITH THE NEW

GETTING IN THE ZONE

In addition to offering new features that increase efficiency, many manufacturers will be featuring more contemporary designs this year, which prompts a question: Is contemporary design here to stay or a passing trend? “Contemporary design is huge right now,” Tweardy says.

“We released a few contemporary fire-

Contemporary design isn’t the only trend. Thomas sees a strong demand for zone-heating applications to reduce energy consumption and costs. Forman agrees, suggesting zone heating will be key to an industry rebound. “The fireplace market in 2010 will begin to regain strength as consumers look for

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more ways to save money. Zone heating is an excellent way to accomplish this goal,” she says.

Zone heating is also a green feature that homeowners will want. Forman says, “The growing emphasis on the environment will also have an impact on the industry, both in 2010 and in the long term. We will see homeowners looking for more and more ways to be kinder to the environment.”

She continues, “This will result in continued strength in biomass appliances, such as EPA fireplaces, and we hope that we will see more pellet fireplaces hit the market as well, opening a new category for the hearth industry.” Tweardy concurs. “There has been a huge shift to producing a greener product. It has become a major criterion in every new product we develop,” he says.

Forman adds, “Homeowners expect more from a fireplace than just heat and ambience. They want to save money through zone heating, and they want to know how fireplaces can help them live a greener lifestyle. They are embracing heating with biomass fuels and are interested in maintaining air quality— indoors and outdoors. Consumers are more discerning, weighing their options in light of a continuing economic downturn.”

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The Valor Vogue with Black Glass Surround

SHOWCASE www.valorfireplaces.com | 1.800.468.2567 | HPBA EXPO Indoor Booth 1601 For more information regarding our product line and dealer opportunities in your area please stop by our indoor booth in Orlando this year at the 2010 HPBA EXPO. See you at the show!

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MarketingManeuvers

Fortunoff Teams Up With The Chair King WRITTEN

BY

KIMBERLY

RODGERS

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

RUSSELL

P R AT T

Two POWERHOUSE RETAILERS join forces to BREATHE new LIFE into the Marty Merkur (left) and Ber nar d Sensale head the new Fortunof f Backyar d Stor es.

t

HROUGH A STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH THE CHAIR KING, A CASUAL RETAILER BASED IN HOUSTON, TEXAS, the Fortunoff name (a long-renowned retail icon in the Northeast) is emerging in a new, leaner version with the opening of six Fortunoff Backyard Stores in New York and New Jersey.

One of the largest outdoor-furniture retailers in the United States, The Chair King (under the direction of David Barish, president) purchased a controlling interest in Garden City, New York-based Furniture Concepts, L.L.C. This new entity has the exclusive licensing rights (under an agreement with Fortunoff Brands, L.L.C.) to the Fortunoff brand for outdoor furniture and seasonal products in the United States and on the Internet.

Furniture Concepts will be managed and led by two former Fortunoff executives, Marty Merkur and Bernard Sensale. Isidore Mayrock, a member of the Fortunoff family, has also invested in the new company and has joined the board of directors. Barish will serve as board chair and president of Furniture Concepts.

FORTUNOFF HISTORY Max and Clara Fortunoff founded their first department store in 1922 in Brooklyn, New York. They soon expanded to eight Brooklyn locations, operating on the principles of offering attentive customer service and a wide selection of household merchandise at low prices.

Under four generations of family leadership, the business steadily grew, eventually including over 20 retail locations prominent throughout the Tristate New York region and Pennsylvania.

The chain consisted of four full-line stores that car-

FORTUNOFF BRAND.

ried every product category for the home, including jewelry, gifts, and outdoor furniture and accessories. As for the other locations, two focused exclusively on jewelry and 14 were anchored by outdoor furnishings.

Between the company’s full-line department stores and its freestanding patio shops, Fortunoff’s had a total of 18 locations selling outdoor furniture.

The Fortunoff and Mayrock families sold the business to two private equity companies in 2005. In February 2008, the Fortunoff chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and was sold to another private equity group, which also filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy in February 2009.

MOVING FORWARD Merkur and Sensale both saw an opportunity to bring back the Fortunoff name after the chain closed. “Patio furniture had always been the most successful and profitable part of the business, and we decided it was just too good to let go by the wayside,” Merkur says. After putting together a business plan and entering into discussions with Barish about having the two companies join forces, the business is relaunching as Fortunoff Backyard Store in February 2010.

“Part of our strategy, going forward, is choosing the right markets in which to compete,” Merkur says. “Since we had 18 locations in the past, we went through the roster of our stores and picked the six best locations where we feel the Fortunoff brand has the most meaning built up over all these years.”

In addition to seeing the same locations, shoppers will also be pleasantly surprised by the many other familiar features that they will find, Sensale believes. “In all of our locations, we are using the prior Fortunoff

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managers of the stores; and in most cases, just about all of the sales associates are the same,” he says. “We think this is very important because it allows us to hit the ground running, with seasoned, experienced help. Some of our people have been selling for over 25 years, so they really know the business, the David Barish merchandise, the quality of the product, and—most important—the customer.”

The merchandising concept for the new stores will also rely on a proven success strategy.“The Fortunoff formula for patio furniture was very successful,” Merkur says. “We kept growing over the years because the customers liked our presentation and the value we gave.”

Fortunoff Backyard Stores feature vignettes and settings that create what Merkur describes as the perfect backyard and an inviting environment where someone can see a large variety of furniture. A range of dining, seating, chat, and bar collections from noted manufacturers (including Agio, Hanamint, Woodard, and Mallin) will give customers infinite possibilities for furnishing any outdoor space.

The stores will also feature Fortunoff’s own proprietary brand, The Source®, with products very recognizable to customers. Umbrellas and grills from Treasure Garden, SunGarden, and Weber will complete the look.

The Fortunoff name has always been synonymous

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Circle Reader Service No. 19

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MarketingManeuvers with excellent customer service, and that will not change with the Backyard Store. “We plan on being true to the brand, which means serving the customer in the same fashion that we have in the past, including our white-glove delivery,” Sensale says.

Fortunoff Backyard Store offers different price points for many consumer profiles, from the newlywed couple just starting out to the high-end affluent buyer.

“We try to cater to all customers’ needs, but we always keep in mind that people today are looking for value,” Merkur says. While customers are seeking a good buy, they will not sacrifice quality. “There is a difference between having inexpensive furniture and offering a good value on quality furniture, which we feel we offer,” he adds.

SPREADING THE WORD The Fortunoff Backyard Store will use past proven marketing strategies as it launches its new advertising campaign. That approach will include newspaper, radio, and television ad placement.

In addition, under its licensing agreement, Furniture Concepts has access to all the intellectual property of the Fortunoff outdoor-furniture business. “We have the contacts and mailing list of past Fortunoff customers, and we plan on using this to let these customers know we are back in business and to convey our brand, our product, and our promotional messages,” Sensale says.

Rehired Fortunoff employees will also be able to take advantage of their client books to reconnect with past customers.The legendary Fortunoff name has also generated a lot of interest from regional media, whose person-

nel are eager to report on the many facets of the Fortunoff comeback.

A STRATEGIC ALLIANCE As head of one of the most successful outdoor chains in the United States, Barish had been planning to expand The Chair King Casual Furniture Stores for a couple of years when Merkur first approached him about investing in the rebirth of the Fortunoff Backyard Store.

“We considered this not only as a good investment, but a strategic one,” Barish says. “It provides an ability to take advantage of experts in New York and Texas, whereby we can use our combined efforts to help each other.

It is going to be good for both companies, and that is why we made the decision to go forward with it.”

Sensale emphasizes the importance of the strategic alliance to the success of Fortunoff Backyard Stores. “Marty and I bring much hard-earned experience and a diverse set of skills to the management of our company. It’s why we partnered together.

Nevertheless, there are areas where intelligent advice is extremely helpful. No one is an expert everywhere, but we’re all looking for the best solution. In David and his team at The Chair King, we have a cadre of people who can offer advice and insights on many fronts,” he says.

Merkur adds, “This advice comes from people who have operated a highly successful business, so it’s extremely valuable. In our short time together, there are already a number of areas where astute advice has helped us to set up a more efficient operation.”

The Chair King and Furniture Concepts will contin-

A STRON GER, BETTER HOMECREST

Mark Fillhouer (left) and Michael Bullinger see a str futur e for Homecr est Outdoor Living.

H

omecrest Outdoor Living has a lot to look forward to as it enters the new decade. After almost closing its doors two years ago, the 53–yearold Wadena, Minnesota-based outdoor-furniture manufacturer has found its footing again and is making some strategic changes to regain its reputation in the industry.

A FRESH START In January 2008, Bullinger Enterprises of Fargo, North Dakota, purchased the struggling company (which had gone through two bankruptcies) and gave it the cash infusion needed to bring it back to life. The owner of Bullinger Enterprises, Michael Bullinger, is in the business of helping struggling companies financially so that they can move forward, helping them assemble new management teams while allowing them, at the same time, to stay in their hometowns.

Homecrest was fortunate to be one of those companies. “I think many people in the industry wrote us off, and rightly so,” Mark Fillhouer says. Fillhouer is chief operating officer; he left Homecrest prior to the first bankruptcy and then came back, at the urg-

ong

ing of Bullinger. “After everything we’ve gone through, we now have a company with a great heritage that is really a new startup company,” he says.

“We lost our way for a little while, but we’re back and ready to move forward with a fresh outlook.”

BETTER PRODUCTS AND BETTER SERVICE Homecrest Outdoor Living is proud to have its original spark back and is taking full advantage of its newfound financial strength to move forward. In the early days, Homecrest was known as an innovative company that built its products to a different standard than that of other manufacturers.

In the 1970s, founder Mert Bottemiller invented the first swivel rocker in an effort to raise the bar on comfort for outdoor furniture. “Innovations like this are what set Homecrest apart,” Fillhouer says, adding that his goal is to get the company back to that place. He admits that over the years, Homecrest stopped innovating and let its style get stale. “We did not keep up with what we should have in terms of investing in new designs and new product introductions; we will never be in that place again,” he says.

20 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

ue to operate separately, although regular daily communication will take place among Barish, Merkur, and Sensale. “As president and chair, I will act in a supervisory capacity, overseeing the investment and helping whenever I can,” Barish says. “It’s a real partnership in the way we operate. I am very fortunate to have Marty and Bernie there to run the company, along with their executive team of former Fortunoff employees. Every member of it is an expert in his or her field; they know what they are doing.”

The Chair King’s controlling interest in Furniture Concepts should also instill confidence in companies that might have been affected by the previous bankruptcies. “The Chair King’s investment has given more credence to Furniture Concepts and the rebirth of the Fortunoff brand in the New York and New Jersey areas, and to vendors and suppliers who might have been skeptical otherwise,” Barish says.

The revitalized Fortunoff Backyard Stores will provide many opportunities—not only for the owners, rehired employees, vendors, and suppliers, but for loyal customers, who can once again experience all the benefits of being Fortunoff shoppers.

“As former Fortunoff executives, Bernie and I are very happy that we are able to employ close to 100 former Fortunoff employees. We take a lot of pride in being able to do that, and with The Chair King’s help, we look forward to working with our team to return the Fortunoff Backyard Store to a position of market strength and profitability—to build a business that our customers love and our team is proud to be a part of,” Merkur says.

By Sharon Sanders

The Havenhill sling gr oup

He explains that after getting two strong selling seasons under its belt, Homecrest is regaining dealers’ confidence. Its newest collections—which include the Havenhill and Wescott sling groups and the Trenton deep seating collection—are getting good placement on showroom floors. “We have some really exciting things coming out later this year as well,” he says.

From a service standpoint, Homecrest is doing things that it hasn’t done before to help dealers meet today’s market challenges. One program that Fillhouer is particularly excited about is its in-season Quick Ship. “We don’t expect retailers to do early buys like they used to,” Fillhouer says, adding that it’s just not smart, in today’s business environment, to put 50% of a whole year’s sales in a warehouse and hope that customers buy it.

The Quick Ship program gives dealers the flexibility of purchasing in-season merchandise when they need it. The company started the program last year with a short list of merchandise, and it has expanded the plan for 2010 to include best sellers and new releases. “What we are trying to do is build a program that a dealer can make money on,”

The Tr enton deep seating collection

Fillhouer explains.

Because the company is financed well, it doesn’t have to go through a factor to finance early buys and give dealers terms. This makes it possible to pass those savings on—in the form of better deals for atonce business. “Down the road, we are going to be able to offer some other services that bigger companies can’t offer,” Fillhouer says.

OPPORTUNITIES ON THE HORIZON Homecrest sees nothing but opportunity ahead as it moves forward with its new business model focused on the dealer. It plans to continue to manufacture high-end casual furniture with an eye toward innovation.

Fillhouer explains that it’s a feeling of freedom to know that Homcrest is once again operating on a solid financial footing. “We are taking this freedom seriously and investing in our dealer programs and products. We’re going to come up with ways to give consumers furniture with comfort, durability, and easy maintenance that they’ve never seen before,” he says. “All I can say about 2010 and beyond is this: Expect the unexpected.”

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Hearth Retailer

Small Details Yield Big Results WRITTEN BY SHARON SANDERS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK REINDERS

For a WISCONSIN HEARTH RETAILER,

FOCUSING ON the nuts and BOLTS of his BUSINESS has MADE IT PROFITABLE even during hard times.

THE FREEZING WINTERS ALONG THE BANKS OF LAKE MICHIGAN HAVE BROUGHT MANY PROSPEROUS YEARS FOR KEN DOUBEK, OWNER OF The Alaskan Fireplace Company/Fireside Hearth & Home, but he is the first to admit that running a hearth business has its challenges. If one were to ask Doubek to what he credits his success, he would be most likely to give one answer: focusing on the small things.

From running the business efficiently and targeting the right customers to keeping his showroom fresh and interesting, Doubek has made The Alaskan Fireplace Company the most high-profile hearth retailer in the area.

A RELUCTANT EVOLUTION The business was founded in Racine, Wisconsin, in 1992, catering primarily to new-home builders. It specialized in products that were construction related, including fireplaces, wire-rack closet shelving, and central built-in vacuums. In 1997, Doubek and his wife, Jeanine (whom he calls the perfect business partner), bought the business and then moved it to a larger, 8,000–square-foot building in Racine, where it remains today Doubek fondly remembers the early days, when business was booming and retailers were making money without

doing much more than opening their stores every morning. He jokes, “It was like being in one of those sealed cash booths with money blowing everywhere, and all you had to do was grab for it.” Those days came to a screeching halt when the housing market crashed.

Before the crash, Doubek admits that he had never thought much about the way he ran his business. “It wasn’t something I made a priority,” he says. In an effort to rethink his business, he had an accountant friend help him analyze every detail of his operation (using the Blueprint for Success program created by Tom Pugh of Lloyd F. Pugh and Associates), and together, they created a new business plan.

“The program taught me how to look at every small detail, from margins to inventory, advertising, and warehousing—and to understand that everything affected my ability to make a profit,” he explains. “I implemented the strategies three years ago, and that’s what I credit for us still being here.”

One thing that has remained strong is The Alaskan Fireplace Company’s reputation for service: Its employees are experts on the company and its products. Most of them have been around since the company’s inception. Doubek prides himself on the facts that he is the only in-home estimator and that he has never relied on

22 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

A moder n bathr oom, complete with a fir eplace, is part of the stor e’s new showr oom vignettes.

Jeanine and Ken Doubek own The Alaskan Fir which they r emodeled in October 2009.

eplace Company/Fir eside Hearth & Home,

commissioned salespeople.

“They are going to try to sell a product that’s best for them and their commission. I’m more concerned about giving the customer what’s right for them than the money I’m going to make on the job. I will only recommend a product I think they will be happy with in the end,” he explains.

In 2006, Doubek turned to the Internet to supplement his income. He secured exclusive distribution rights in North America for a popular grate heater that consumers were buying by the tens of thousands after it was invented in 1977 by Ron and Dan Shimek (the founding fathers of Heat & Glo). The heater is popular because it adds up to

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Hearth Retailer 40,000 Btu of heat to a room and only costs around $400. “Retailing and wholesaling it have kept us going.

I call it a reverse product because the worse the economy is, the better the sales are—because it’s inexpensive,” he says.

The heater is sold across the nation to both dealers and consumers at www.hearthfan.com, a Web site that Doubek created. “Margins are high because it’s just me, a telephone, a computer, and a credit-card machine,” he explains, adding that he warehouses the product in his Racine warehouse. “What I’ve learned about running

In August 2009, Doubek partnered with Hearth & Home Technologies to transform the store into a showplace that he’s confident will carry the business successfully through the new decade. Like many retailers, Doubek didn’t have the money or expertise to do what he envisioned for his store. “We had been selling Hearth & Home Technologies’ products for many years, with much success, so the partnership for the remodeling was the perfect fit,” Doubek says.

He was amazed at how easily and quickly his showroom was transformed. The grand opening was held in

“ The biggest trend I’m seeing is that the line between outdoor dining and conversation is becoming more muted. Decks and patios are truly becoming outdoor family rooms.” my business in this downturn, I truly believe will make us profitable on the other side,” he says.

A NEW LOOK By 2009, it had been 12 years since Doubek had made any significant changes to his 4,000–square-foot showroom. With the newfound internal strength of his business, he was ready for a fresh look on the outside as well. “New-home builders were no longer our primary customers, so we needed to do something to appeal to the next generation: namely, homeowners and custom builders,” he explains.

MARTH

October 2009 (after just three months), and Doubek says that he couldn’t be happier with the final result, which includes modern vignettes featuring fireplaces in master-bathroom, bedroom, and home-office settings. He explains that the size of the showroom didn’t change, but it seems much bigger now because it’s laid out so well.

“We put in products that I thought no rational, thinking dealer would spend money on, like landscape fireplaces and Heat & Glo’s ultramodern freestanding fireplace, Paloma™—and they are selling because the showroom opens people’s minds to new ideas,” he

HELPS REDUCE CARBON FOOTPRINTS

S

ince 1958, Marth Wood Shavings, based in Marathon, Wisconsin, has been in the business of recycling residual wood fiber for use in a wide variety of consumer-friendly items, including shavings for animal bedding, wood flour, and other products. The company first began producing wood pellets for clean-burning fuel about 20 years ago, and it has since become one of the top producers of high-quality wood pellets, as well as a strong advocate for green fuel.

THE PELLET REVOLUTION When Marth began making wood pellets, the market wasn’t as fully developed as it is today. For several years, the company did what it could to create demand for its new product, including selling stoves for a short time. The interest in wood pellets picked up slightly in the late 1990s, but it wasn’t until the mid-2000s—when energy costs started to rise—that people realized that wood pellets are a cost-effective alternative to fossil fuel that is also a convenient alternative to cordwood.

Today, Marth can boast of having one of the longest continuously running facilities producing wood pellets east of the Mississippi. Its high-tech facilities can produce more than 400 tons of wood pellets every day, as demand dictates. These pellets are shipped across the United States, not only to warm homes and businesses, but to be used as a commercial heat source to dry corn and even to sustain plants in greenhouses.

Marth’s products have a reputation for being the best in the industry in terms of both quality and consistency. The company takes care to use raw materials from only the best sources and has metic-

says. He admits that he was the biggest skeptic concerning the Paloma, yet he was the person who sold the first one.

Customers are buying higher-priced products as well.

“Now, more than ever before, people see us as a stable company with the newest products,” Doubek explains.

The exterior of the building also underwent a muchneeded facelift. For the store’s grand opening, Doubek created and ran a television commercial announcing,“It’s still us,” just with a new look. Because the store is on a main street, he’s hoping that passersby will see the new exterior and stop in to see what’s new inside.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Doubek is confident that the health of his business and the momentum of the remodeling project have propelled The Alaskan Fireplace Company strongly into 2010. In addition, over the next few years, he anticipates that the replacement business for prefabricated fireplaces is going to be huge because all the units that have been sold in the past 20 years will need to be torn out and replaced because 20 years is the typical life cycle of a fireplace. “I see it as another great opportunity for us,” he explains.

Doubek predicts that his biggest challenge is going to be that of replacing the lost new-construction business, anticipating that it will be gone for at least another five years—but it doesn’t worry him too much. “Once the economy recovers, our industry is going to explode,” Doubek says. “The guys who make it through this are going to be at the top. They will be the leaders of the next generation of hearth shops, and that’s what keeps me going.”

By Sharon Sanders

ulously fine-tuned its transportation and production processes, all of which contribute to the superiority of its product. Over the past several years, Marth has made some significant investments in production equipment, packaging lines, and material-handling equipment in an effort to stay ahead of its competition, in terms of both cost and quality.

A GREEN ADVOCATE Marth has become a leading force in the advocacy of green fuel. It has been involved with the Pellet Fuels Institute (PFI) for years and is one of the founding members of the Biomass Thermal Energy Council (BTEC), a nonprofit organization focused on advancing the use of biomass fuel for heat and other thermal-energy applications.

“Although we’ve been making pellets for 20 years, some people are just now coming around to it,” Doug Denfeld, Marth’s director of sales and marketing, explains. “We believe that biomass and thermal energy are the most efficient uses of pellets as a renewable resource, as opposed to some other paths, like liquid fuels or electricity.”

Marth and BTEC have led the way by getting involved in government affairs and trying to educate lawmakers at local, state, and federal levels on the usefulness of biomass fuels—especially from the standpoint that a renewable resource is only as good as the way that you use it. Denfeld explains that if the government wants to put in place incentives and money toward renewable resources, it needs to do it in the most responsible way, and in the way that makes the most sense.

Lobbying of government representatives is also done to educate them on the pros and cons of pro-

24 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

The expansive facility of Marth W ood Shavings in Marathon, W isconsin, pr oduces mor e than 400 tons of high-quality wood pellets every day. The company is committed to making the United States a mor e ener gy-independent country.

posed legislation, as well as on some of the funding used to provide incentives for various programs. “We hope that we can steer them in a way that is favorable for everyone who uses renewable resources,” Denfeld explains.

Marth was very instrumental in assisting PFI and BTEC in pushing through the federal tax credit that went into effect in 2009 for consumers who purchase energy-efficient stoves. “Successes like this show that we do make a difference,” Denfeld adds.

MOVING FORWARD Marth has high hopes for 2010, since it has invested time and money in its products and production over the past few years. The company is

excited to be introducing a line of hardwood pellets manufactured specifically for the backyard grill this year.

“There are a number of manufacturers making grills that use wood pellets, so we thought it would be a good way to diversify,” Denfeld says. Marth is also bringing out a line of smoking chips for the grill using woods that include hickory, apple, and mesquite. Consumers will be able to buy the pellets and chips at patio specialty retailers.

“At the end of the day, sales aside, what we are trying to do is to take a renewable, sustainable resource and use it in the best way possible to get toward a more energy-independent place for our country,” Denfeld says. “It’s that simple.”

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Outdoor Grilling

Backyard Bistros Catch on in Canada WRITTEN

BY

CAROL

DAUS

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

PETER

LYN

OUTDOOR KITCHENS are NO LONGER a NOVELTY in Canada, where a GROWING

NUMBER of consumers have TRANSFORMED their BACKYARD patios and decks into fully functional

COOKING AREAS. Outdoor Luxury specializes in constructing custom-built outdoor kitchens, so each pr customer’s tastes and budget.

oject varies, depending on the

A beautifully decorated showr oom helps customers visualize what they can accomplish in designing their own outdoor kitchens.

Joanne and Rick Bloye, owners of Outdoor Luxury, find many r tomers build personalized outdoor kitchens.

THERE’S AN OLD ADAGE IN BUSINESS: SELL WHAT YOU KNOW. RICK AND JOANNE BLOYE EMBRACED THIS STRATEGY OVER SEVEN YEARS AGO WHEN THEY OPENED OUTDOOR LUXURY, THE FIRST COMPANY IN CANADA TO SPECIALIZE IN BUILDING OUTDOOR KITCHENS ON A FULL-TIME BASIS.

advisor) and Joanne (a former corporate headhunter) started toying with the idea of quitting their jobs and taking their outdoor-kitchen business to a whole new level. This was a huge decision, since they both had secure, lucrative jobs— but in the end, it turned out to be the right decision.

“We absolutely love what we do,” Joanne Bloye stresses. “We never feel that we’re selling something; instead, we feel that we’re educating our customers about how they can transform their outdoor spaces into beautiful (yet practical) areas for dining and entertaining.”

The actual inspiration for the business

By focusing on advising customers instead of pushing sales, they have watched their Aurora, Ontario-based business grow at a staggering rate. Now, they are known throughout Ontario for their expertise in designing and constructing beautiful outdoor kitchens.

Even before launching their business, the Bloyes became veritable experts in outdoor kitchens by successfully designing and developing an alfresco cooking

area for their own home. At that time, there were limited resources available for those who wanted to build outdoor kitchens, so Rick designed and built one himself. After friends and relatives complimented the Bloyes on their outdoor kitchen, they decided to enter a home show; afterward, they were featured in several magazines.

Since they quickly became outdoorkitchen experts, Rick (a former financial

26 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

ewar ds in helping cus-

sprouted from trips that the Bloyes took to the Caribbean, where they love dining alfresco, whether it includes shrimp on the grill or margaritas around the bar.“We wanted to create this type of atmosphere in our own backyard, and we knew that there were plenty of other homeowners who would share our passion,” Bloye says.

Since Outdoor Luxury designs and creates custom-built outdoor kitchens, each project varies, depending on the customer’s tastes and budget. Some customers come to Outdoor Luxury with plans in hand, while others need assistance from the Bloyes in designing every aspect of their outdoor kitchen.

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Outdoor Grilling “Many people visualize an outdoor kitchen in terms of a straight line against a wall,” Bloye says. “We show them several options that can work well, such as bringing the unit out from the wall and adding a 45-degree angle and riser bar that will make it look 100% better and will make it more functional.”

Some customers bring in pictures of their backyards, and in many instances, the Bloyes visit their homes to study color schemes; architectural elements; and features such as swimming pools, hot tubs, pergolas, pavilions, cabanas, and stonework. “Many customers don’t have huge lots, so we show them how they can include an outdoor kitchen that will complement their space without dominating the environment,” Bloye says.

Outdoor Luxury is extremely particular about the manufacturers of grills and outdoor-kitchen equipment that it represents. Instead of carrying products from many different manufacturers, as other retailers do, the Bloyes prefer to offer only the best products available at a given price point in terms of construction, features, and service.

To understand which grills are the absolute best, Bloye stresses that dealers need to study product manuals and visit the manufacturers’ factories to learn how the equipment is constructed. “When we first started this business, I would rip apart a grill to find out exactly how everything worked—from the burner and igniter systems to the housing, welds, and cooking grids,” she says.

“If I’m going to say a particular grill is the best, I need to be able to explain to customers what makes it the best in its category.”

The Bloyes also look closely at manufacturers’ warranties to determine whether customers will receive appropriate after-purchase service. “Since our customers are in Canada and most high-end grill manufacturers are based in the United States, we need to know who’s going to repair the barbecues after a sale and where the parts

A NEW

B

Kamado

will come from,” Bloye says.

The Bloyes prefer to work with manufacturers that specialize in outdoor-kitchen equipment as a first line of business. “If barbecue grills aren’t the main source of a company’s income, we find that that they give these products less attention because they’re secondary lines,” Bloye explains. Outdoor Luxury also selects grills that incorporate infrared technology, since its high radiant heat cooks food in a manner that makes meats juicier and much more flavorful.

As a custom builder of outdoor kitchens, Outdoor Luxury does not compete with Home Depot and other mass-market discount chains; its product offerings are basically all custom built using much better materials than those used in products mass produced for the bigbox stores. Outdoor Luxury’s customers desire highend outdoor kitchens that are unique extensions of their upscale homes, and they spend $10,000 to $50,000 (and sometimes more) to outfit a complete outdoor kitchen.

According to Bloye, the first step in planning an outdoor kitchen is selecting a high-quality grill with a warranty of 10 years or more. The warranty should cover cooking grids, burning systems, housing, and hoods.

The Bloyes also recommend side burners—particularly double side burners that can accommodate griddles— so that everything can be cooked outdoors.

After the grill and side burners have been selected, there are numerous choices for the customer to make in fully outfitting his or her outdoor kitchen. Outdoor Luxury has noticed an increased interest in power burners and refrigerators, as well as in icemakers, sinks, beer towers, and warming drawers (besides keeping cooked chicken and ribs hot, warming drawers can even be used to keep towels warm).

Customers are also spending money on pizza ovens, firepits, and outdoor fireplaces. To help customers

DRAWS KUDOS

efore he started his company, Kamado Joe® (Flowery Branch, Georgia), Bobby Brennan estimates that he was probably responsible for selling up to 100 of his competitor’s products simply by hosting dinner parties at his house and grilling on a ceramic cooker. “I have cooked for people over the years, and they all say the taste is unbelievable,” Brennen says. Passionate about kamado-style grilling, Brennan adds, “Hands down, you just can’t beat a ceramic cooker for taste.”

Armed with a love of the category plus an entrepreneurial background and experience in design, manufacturing, and purchasing, Brennan did a market survey two years ago in the Atlanta area and was alarmed at what he found. “Atlanta is the center of the category, but even here, 80% of people had not heard of kamado grilling,” he says.

Believing that the kamado was still in the infancy of its product life cycle, Brennan decided to design his own brand, the Kamado Joe, which he introduced in March 2009 at HPBExpo.

While Brennan respects the competition and believes that all ceramic cookers deliver great taste, the Kamado Joe sets itself apart by “trying to do a lot of little things differently,” he explains. Some of these changes include fittings, fastenings, side shelves, bands, and a hinged-door cooking grate made from 304 stainless steel; locking cart wheels; an easy-to-read, extra-large temperature gauge with a cooking guide; a heavy-duty, powder-coated cart; thicker ceramics; and a mildew- and weather-resistant bamboo handle and side shelves.

The shape of the Kamado Joe is also less tapered at the bottom than other ceramic cookers to allow for a bigger firebox and more charcoal, which will enable it to burn hotter and longer, if desired. “There are a lot of little things, but when you add them, they make a difference,” Brennan says. The Kamado Joe’s preferred price point also sets it apart in the category.

Brennan describes the response to the Kamado Joe at its HPBExpo

choose grill products and materials, Outdoor Luxury’s 1,600–square-foot showroom displays outdoor kitchens in several different configurations. The showroom also has a demo kitchen, which is used for cooking demonstrations.

Although the flailing economy has affected most businesses in the home-remodeling industry, Bloye admits that Outdoor Luxury has grown steadily in the past few years. In fact, in 2009, it built its most expensive outdoor kitchen for a client. “The customers most hurt by the recession are generally not our customers,” she notes. “Our customers may have taken hits to their portfolios, but they still have large salaries and beautiful homes, and they still want to buy and enjoy the best.”

To reach this affluent market segment, the Bloyes occasionally advertise in high-end magazines. Besides referrals from designers, landscape architects, and current and past customers, however, the Internet has been Outdoor Luxury’s strongest referral source. As a result, the Bloyes keep their Web site current and include a large selection of photographs showing many different styles and sizes of outdoor kitchens that they have custom built for their clients.

After being in business for over seven years, the Bloyes cannot imagine returning to their former jobs.The rewards of being Canada’s premier builder of outdoor kitchens and grilling islands are immeasurable. “I get excited just talking about barbecues, outdoor kitchens, firepits, and outdoor fireplaces,” Bloye says.

Because customers are so pleased with their outdoor kitchens, they frequently stay in touch with the Bloyes. Many even invite them to their homes for alfresco meals prepared and enjoyed in their own outdoor kitchens. Bloye says, “We’ve become close friends of many of our customers, which is the ultimate reward of running this business.”

By Kimberly Rodgers

debut as tremendous, adding, “Every month, we continue to get better and better results. I think most people were surprised by the quality of the product.” With distribution agreements now in place throughout most of the United States, half of Canada, and parts of Europe, the company has had a successful first year, with its profile steadily growing as interest among outdoor retailers increases.

“Our management commitment is to listen to our dealers and distributors and really continuously improve the quality and depth of our product Design and price set the Kamado Joe apart in the ceramic-cooker category. offering,” Brennan says. Furthermore, the company is committed to providing its dealers and distributors with exclusive territories. ing the benefits of the kamado-style cookers,” Brennan says.

Since the first product’s launch, the company has already introHe comments that people often avoid charcoal-fueled grills due to duced its own brand of natural lump charcoal and a private-label fire the length of time it takes to fire one up, along with the messy cleanup starter, and it is also offering the cooker in several custom colors and that follows cooking. “Since the Kamado Joe takes about 10 minutes with multiple trim levels. Additional enhancements include a recently to heat up and there is no cleanup, those reasons do not apply to the redesigned pizza stone and a plate setter, which allows one to cook, kamado category,” he adds. bake, or smoke using indirect heat.

As more people look for different ways of preparing food to add There are many rewards of cooking on the Kamado Joe, including variety to their outdoor kitchens, Brennan hopes that they will considthe ability to smoke a cut of meat at 180 degrees for hours or sear a er the Kamado Joe. “There seems to be a general trend toward people steak at 750 degrees in minutes, but Brennan believes that the biggest staying at home and doing more grilling, and I see the kamado catebenefits are the superior flavor and unmatched tenderness of the food. gory increasing significantly as a percentage of the overall market,” he He is enthusiastic about ceramic cookers in general, and wants to says. “We need to build awareness, create interest, provide more inforspread the word so that more people will consider purchasing one. “As mation, and reinforce the fact that the Kamado Joe brand offers the a category, we need to do a better job of communicating and market- best-tasting food of any grill.”

28 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

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Showroom Showcase

Fishels ChangesWith theTimes WRITTEN

BY

SHARON

SANDERS

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

SARAH

ANDREWS

An APOLLO AWARD-WINNING RETAILER recognizes the

IMPORTANCE of adjusting its MERCHANDISING STRATEGY to MEET the NEEDS of a changing CUSTOMER BASE.

F

ISHELS HAS BEEN SERVING THE PEOPLE OF PORTLAND, OREGON, AND ITS SUBURBS SINCE 1921. OVER THE YEARS, THIS FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS HAS CARVED OUT A COMFORTABLE NICHE FOR ITSELF AS THE LOCAL CONTEMPORARY INDOOR-FURNITURE RETAILER WITH THE WIDEST SELECTION OF

outdoor furniture available in the area. It’s also been recognized for excellence in the casual-furniture industry.

In 1995, Larry Talbott and his wife, Dee, purchased Fishels with big plans in mind. They have spent the past 15 years easing the business out of its comfort zone and evolving it to reach the next generation of customers. Talbott says, “Any company, no matter how successful it is, needs to be re-evaluating its business plan constantly. With Fishels, the road map was there; we just had to tweak it a little.” That has paid off, he adds.

BEGINNINGS Founder Leonard Fishel was a Russian Jewish immigrant who came to the United States at the beginning of the 20th century. Fishel; his wife, Rose; and their sons, Martin and Howard, settled in Portland and opened Fishels Awning & Supply Company in 1921. At the time, it was primarily an awning company that sold outdoor furniture consisting of not much more than a few swings and director’s chairs.

30 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

Larry and Dee T albott, owners of Fishels

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After World War II, business took off because returning veterans and their families needed patio furniture for the homes that they were purchasing.

After graduating from college, Howard and Martin Fishel joined their father in the business, and together, they enjoyed many years of success.

In the early 1970s, after the deaths of Leonard and Howard, Martin sold the awning portion of the business, changed the company’s name to Fishels Furniture, and began selling contemporary indoor furniture to offset the seasonal patio business. “The indoor/outdoor combination has been the company’s winning formula ever since,” Talbott says; he joined Martin as a junior partner in 1993 and bought the business just two years later.

STRENGTHENING THE BRAND Talbott took the reigns of the company at a time when the Portland area was going through a growth spurt in population. While many longtime residents had shopped at the historic downtown Fishels store for years,

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there was a whole new generation of people who had not even heard of Fishels. Talbott seized this opportunity to raise awareness of the Fishels brand.

His strong marketing background proved to be an asset as he laid out his plans. “I focused on developing our

image using local shelter publications and newspapers,” he recalls. The message was simple: We are Fishels. We have been in the marketplace since 1921. We carry top brands and categories. “At the time, it made the most sense to build our brand versus pro-

moting products,” Talbott says.

As he spread the word about Fishels, he made certain that when customers came into the store, their shopping experience—in terms of both products and sales professionalism— lived up to the branding message.

“There is often a disconnect for customers when a store doesn’t deliver on what it portrays itself to be in its advertising,” Talbott says. “There is a uniformity in our whole marketing effort, from the message to our products to our service.”

As the Fishel family always had, Talbott continues to take the upper road when it comes to product quality, selection, and vendors. “People come to specialty retailers for high-end products, and I believe we have the best selection in the Portland market,” he says, explaining that he regularly adds new vendors to keep the merchandise fresh and interesting. In 2000, Fishels opened a second store (in Beaverton), in an effort to expand its presence in another major Portland suburb.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE While Talbott is enjoying the steady growth in both Fishels stores, he’s not one to rest on his laurels. He is calculating his next move to expand the company’s customer base. He explains that while the company has been gaining new customers, demographic information still shows that its core customers tend to be older (because it’s been in business so long).

Talbott is revamping his marketing strategy to reach customers in their 30s and 40s who are in the market for patio and contemporary indoor furniture. He realizes that his once-successful print advertising isn’t reaching his target customers, so he’s shifted the focus to other media, including the Web, Google AdWords, and strategic television advertising. “With the advent of TiVo® and other digital recording options, television advertising has gotten tricky. People record their favorite shows and skip over the commercials,” he explains.

Talbott has begun to wrap advertising around news programs because many people watch the news live and don’t skip over commercials. He is also working on social-networking opportunities, including Facebook and Twitter.

“I think social media are expanding in importance to the customers we are planning to target,” he explains.

With Talbott at the helm, there is no doubt that Fishels will continue

Above: Fishels makes it a priority to stay on top of color and style tr ends.

Left: As a local r etail landmark, Fishels has been serving the Portland, Or egon, ar ea since 1921.

January/February 2010 Patio & Hearth Products Report 31

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Showroom Showcase

Over the past 15 years, owner Larry T manufactur ers.

albott has worked har

d to polish the image of Fishels as a r

etailer of the top brands fr

GIVING CUSTOMERS WHAT THEY WANT

P

aul Varshney, owner of Suncoast Furniture, is thrilled about his company’s new showroom in the Chicago Merchandise Mart. His son, Rajiv, and Rick Baker, national sales manager, are making frequent trips back and forth from Suncoast’s headquarters in Fort Myers, Florida, readying the showroom for its debut at ICFA Casual Pre-Market in July. Varshney sees the space as the perfect venue for unveiling the company’s 2010 line.

Paul V arshney, owner of Suncoast Fur

“I have no doubt that our new showroom, filled with new products, will inspire our dealers and get them excited about putting our furniture on their showroom floors,” he says. Suncoast specializes in handfinished cast-aluminum, castcombination, and wicker furniture that is made in the company’s modern manufacturing facility in Fort Myers. Suncoast’s products are available in the finest specialty retail stores across the country, and they are a frequent choice of interior designers, country clubs, resorts, hotels, and restaurants.

Suncoast Furniture has come a long way since its early days. When Varshney and his wife, Raj, bought the business in 1983, it was a small, unknown company called Suncoast Aluminum Furniture Manufacturing.

Over the years, they have methodically transformed Suncoast into an award-winning design leader in the casual-furniture industry. The transformation began just six years after they took over the business and moved it from a 1,500–square-foot rented building to a 16,000–squarefoot facility.

In 1990, following his college graduation, Rajiv joined his parents in day-to-day operations. As the demand for Suncoast’s products grew, the company increased its capacity by undergoing three plant expansions (in 1992, 1997, and 2003), bringing its manufacturing facility’s size to 139,000 square feet. nitur e It also added a sophisticated

32 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

om the best

to evolve and prosper. In 2009, he led the company to its first Apollo Award win in the multistore category, and he is a member of the Inter national Casual Furnishings Asso ciation’s board and its newly formed retail council. “My involvement has given me the chance to work with some of the leaders on the manufacturing and retail side of the industry. I have gleaned some great ideas that I can apply to my business, now and in the future,” he says.

Eventually, Talbott hopes to pass on the business to someone who appreciates its history and sees the same opportunities that he saw when he bought into it. “You’re a fool to get into the retail business if you don’t have a passion for it, “ he explains. “You’re not going to maximize your opportunities, and you’re not going to enjoy yourself.

Owning a retail business is a labor of love that can be very rewarding, but it does not come easily.”

By Sharon Sanders

paint powder-coat finishing system that uses the company’s exclusive platinum-bond finishing process to create custom furniture finishes.

In 1994, Suncoast secured its first permanent showroom in the Chicago Merchandise Mart.

been around since the very beginning. “A large number of patio retailers are family businesses as we are, so we can relate to them and know what they need to survive,” he adds.

SERVICE IS KING PRODUCTS FOR THE PEOPLE Varshney, an engineer by trade, has worked tirelessly to elevate Suncoast’s designs to a level that rivals that of any of the big-name manufacturers. Season after season, the company creates fresh designs, taking care to incorporate the latest trends and advances in technology.

Varshney says that today’s consumers want to buy complete furniture collections, not just pieces, to fill their outdoor retreats. The company’s best-selling collections—which include the Windsor cast-aluminum and Devereaux castcombination sets—are those that have all of the pieces that consumers could possibly want, from dining sets to chat groups.

When it comes to value, Suncoast is the only U.S. manufacturer that still does its own hand-applied faux finishes, yet it has some of the most competitive prices. It offers a fully welded cast-aluminum chair with a premium hand-applied finish for a $70 cost, a sofa glider for an unheard-of $600, and its popular Kona wicker stacking chair for a cost of under $60.

Varshney attributes much of the company’s success not only to having relevant designs and great value, but to listening to its customers.

“If they give us a good idea for a new design or suggest a tweak for an existing one, we change it. Because we are a small, family-owned company with U.S. manufacturing, we can make changes quickly, unlike the big companies,” Varshney says.

Many of Suncoast’s current dealers have

Competition has always been intense in the outdoor-furniture industry, so it’s a must for manufacturers to offer not only superior products, but superior service as well. Varshney is adamant about providing service that makes a difference.

One key concern for dealers is delivery time.

Suncoast sets itself apart in this area by being the only manufacturer in the country that can deliver U.S.-made, handfinished cast furniture in just three weeks.

“Quick delivery makes it possible for dealers to maintain low levels of inventory because they know we will ship orders on time, every time,” he says, adding that customers can choose from 10 frame finishes and a number of custom handapplied finishes.

On the customer-service front, Suncoast recently reevaluated the speed at which it handles warranty claims. It previously took several weeks to handle a claim; after some needed adjustments were made, warranty claims are now handled at the time the customer calls or within 24 hours.

“Dealers seek us out because of our reputation for service,” Varshney explains.

He is excited about the future of Suncoast and the potential of the casual-furniture industry. “Consumers are exposed to beautiful outdoor-living spaces everywhere they turn—in magazines, on television, and in the movies— and they want to recreate them at home,” Varshney says. “If we can continue to make furniture with great style and value, we will be around for a long time.”

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As I See It Warming Up the Look of F ireplaces WRITTEN BY SHARON SANDERS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOJE PEDERSEN

BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED mantels by OMEGA MANTELS OF STONE TRANSFORM FIREPLACES into eye-catching FOCAL

POINTS.

Leo Montagnese (left) and Henry Medeir

os, co-owners of Omega Mantels of Stone

ANY HEARTH DEALER WILL TELL YOU THAT EVEN THE FINEST FIREPLACE ISN’T COMPLETE WITHOUT THE PERFECT MANTEL. Omega Mantels of Stone, based near Toronto, Ontario, couldn’t agree more. It’s been outfitting some of the most beautiful homes in the United States with stunning stone mantels since 2006. Patio & Hearth Products Report sat down with Leo Montagnese, co-owner of Omega Mantels of Stone, to find out what this vibrant company is up to and how it’s working to help its dealers sell in 2010.

P&HPR: Please share a little bit about the history of Omega Mantels of Stone.

A: Omega Mantels & Moulding (founded in 1980) started its stone-mantel division, Omega Mantels of Stone, in 1994. It wasn’t long before stone mantels became one of the company’s biggest growth product lines. In 2006, we entered the United States through specialty hearth dealers, and they quickly became our focus because their showrooms were the perfect settings to showcase what Omega had to offer.

34 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

P&HPR: How has Omega made a name for itself?

A: What sets Omega apart from other mantel companies is the fact that we can do anything a customer wants. We can customize any mantel to fit in any situation, no matter how unusual the location may be. I often say that dealing with us is like dealing with a custom wood shop, because anything that can be drawn on paper, we can do. We have become the leading source for custom, thin cast-stone fireplace mantels, surrounds, and overmantels in North America.

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Circle Reader Service No. 35

Direct-Temp Pellet Direct Vent Galvanized Ext. Stainless Int.

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| Warming Up the Look of F ireplaces

P&HPR: How have you seen the market for mantels change recently?

A: Up until about five years ago, a mantel was too often the last thing in the living room on which homeowners spent time or money. It’s now become a focal point in the home. Mantels are frequently popping up in front foyers, kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms.

Locally, here in Toronto, they are been used more and more as selling features by builders.

P&HPR: What do you think today’s consumers are looking for in mantels?

How does Omega meet those needs?

A: Consumers are looking for mantels that add upscale sophistication to their homes and reflect their personal style. They want high-end, unique materials that give their hearths a custom, one-of-a-kind look. Omega is really big on feedback from its dealers and customers. We’re always asking them what they want to see and creating designs based on their thoughts.

Our new contemporary line was developed directly from ideas our dealers jotted down on paper. We were getting requests for the straight-block look and other contemporary designs, so we created a contemporary line (with four

mantels) that appears in our new catalog, which came out in January 2010.

P&HPR: Speaking of new products, what’s up for 2010?

A: It’s a big year for us. We have added 13 new mantels and six new customizable overmantels to our current offerings. We’ve introduced a gorgeous new stone (called diamond stone) that has fine flecks in it that shine like diamonds. It comes in two finishes: chocolate and sahara. Our stones will be available in some new finishes, including olive, gray honed, and gray cast. We’ve also expanded our selection of edges for our hearth and inset panels to include not only halfround and square edges, but ogee and beveled edges as well.

P&HPR: Omega is known for its timeless designs. What is good mantel design, in your opinion?

A: Good mantel design is being able to design for everybody and making everybody happy. We design our products so all of the legs and mantelpieces can be easily mixed and matched. The stone we use, much of which no other company uses, adds to the beauty of our

mantel designs.

P&HPR: How are you making selling easier for your dealers in 2010?

A: Our goal is to make it easier for our dealers to sell, any way we can. One way we are doing this is by making our 2010 catalog (volume 2) friendlier than ever before. Based on feedback from our dealers, beginning this year, we will not only include images of our mantels, but the dimensions of every mantel in our catalog as well. In the past, we have only included specifications for selected mantels.

Thanks to feedback from our dealers, we will also be sending out our first suggested retail price list. Previously, we only included the wholesale price, but because many dealers called asking for pricing suggestions, we are now giving them our suggestions. In terms of our products, we have had a large number of requests for wall slabs over the past year. While we offered the slabs before in a limited selection, they are now available in any size and finish that we offer for our mantels.

We’ve also added more personnel to provide better service to our dealers.

P&HPR: What do you see as your

biggest opportunity for 2010 and beyond?

A: Our biggest opportunity is diversification. Not only are we selling products to enhance fireplaces, but we are stepping into kitchens with our dramatic stone range hoods. In the past year, the interest in our hoods has doubled, and I see that interest continuing to grow. It is a great opportunity for our dealers who are hoping to broaden their horizons with different—yet complementary—products. We have a lot of dealers showing range hoods on their showroom floors, and they’re generating a lot of interest.

P&HPR: In what direction do you see the mantel industry heading?

A: Five years ago, if you picked up any home magazine, it was rare to see a stone mantel; not any more. Stone mantels are everywhere, and not only in luxury homes. They’re even becoming a standard with quantity homebuilders. I think Omega is just starting to tap into that U.S. market, and people are just starting to become aware of what is available. It’s really early in the curve, but I predict a big stone-mantel movement coming.

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36 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

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My Turn Holland Grill Company Uses Demos to Spark Sales

BY KIMBERLY RODGERS

HOW DOES A BUSINESS BUCK A RECESSION? FOR THE HOLLAND GRILL COMPANY, IT’S

BY LISTENING TO CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS, OFFERING INNOVATIVE products and choices, and drawing in new business, often by showcasing the benefits and versatility of its grills Scott W ar n er through holding cooking demonstrations from New York, New York, to Fargo, North Dakota. All of these factors (and adjusting to a changing marketplace) have helped the Holland Grill Company—based in Holly Springs, North Carolina—not only survive, but thrive in a down economy.

Because Holland grills are easy to ignite, simple to operate, built from high-quality galvanized and stainless steel, and designed with an exclusive drip pan that offers a guarantee that there will be no flareups, cooking on them is a delightful experience for any outdoor chef, from novice to aficionado.

Meat always turns out moist and tender because the food’s natural juices hit the unique drip-pan system, sizzle, and smoke back over the food, giving it a delicious and distinctive flavor. The no–flare-up guarantee ensures that meat will never become dry.

In addition, Holland Grill Company offers a variety of accessories to enhance the grilling experience, including covers, wireless timers, and thermometers, as well as seasonings, sauces, and rubs.

NEW PRODUCTS A large part of Holland Grill Company’s success is due to its commitment to meet customers’ needs and requests for new products. “If you don’t listen to your customers, you are in trouble,” Scott Warner, national sales manager, says.

In 2009, the company introduced the infrared SearMate, an accessory that attaches to all full-size Holland grills and gives users the ability to sear meat at high temperatures. This caramelizes the food’s natural sugars and gives any cut—from steaks to burgers, pork chops, and chicken—a mouthwatering, crisp crust. The SearMate unit was introduced to the marketplace for those customers who love the experience of cooking on a Holland grill, but also enjoy a seared taste.

“It has just been phenomenal for us, and it went beyond our expectations in sales,” Warner says.

Currently available in a powder-coated finish, the unit will be introduced in a stainless-steel version (in response to numerous customer requests) in early spring, along with a drop-in unit for an outdoor island. “We are excited about the SearMate

Available in gas or electric versions, the Companion grill also featur es Holland’s unique drip-pan system, which eliminates flar e-ups.

The Patriot is Holland’s entry into the char coal-grill market.

The SearMate attaches to all full-size Holland grills.

HOLLAND GRILL COMPANY has INCREASED SALES in a down economy BY INTRODUCING new PRODUCTS and a time-proven MARKETING STRATEGY. coming out in stainless, and we believe infrared is going to be hot this year,” Warner says.

Last spring, the company introduced the Patriot charcoal grill, and it plans to reintroduce the grill this winter with more aggressive pricing. Warner says, “We had been a gas grill company for 25 years, and there was some shock when we came out with a charcoal grill, but it’s all about choice and offering alternatives. People are not shackled to a single type of cooking; they want options. We thought, ‘Why not give them a Holland charcoal grill?’”

COOKING DEMOS When Brad Holland (the inventor and founder of the company, who has since retired) developed his innovative grill 25 years ago, he knew that it did great things for food, but he had to come up with a way to tell people about it, “so he started cooking on it, and that’s the way it’s been ever since,” Warner comments.

Cooking demonstrations are part of Holland Grill Company’s history and are conducted on a regular basis all over the country—at retail locations, at county fairs, and even in the hearts of cities. “We go wherever we can get a gathering of people,” Warner says. All members of the Holland Grill Company team (including the sales force; distributors; and Barry Byars, vice president and general manager) roll up their sleeves for the demos.

In the 15 years that he has been with the company, Warner estimates that he has cooked over 1,200 turkeys. “The demonstrations have such an impact

38 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

on people and have been our mainstay of marketing for many years,” he says. “It’s a success formula that I don’t think we will ever abandon because it works so well for us. We’ve talked about coming up with ways to sell the grill other than cooking on it, but nothing works any better.”

CAPTURING TRENDS Sometimes intimidated by the difficulty of igniting a gas grill, many women have traditionally shied away from outdoor cooking. Change is in the air, however, as increasing numbers of women are taking more interest in grilling. Because Holland Grill Company products are simple to light (by raising the lid, turning on the gas knob, and clicking the igniter knob a few times), women have always been comfortable using them, according to Warner.

In addition, Holland grills cook using the same principle (indirect radiant heat) as a convection oven, so they have incredible versatility in cooking all types of food—from omelets, fruit pies, and cobblers to meat loaf and grilled cheese. “Once women cook on a Holland grill and realize it’s an outdoor oven, but gives a great flavor, they love using it,” Warner says.

Year-round outdoor cooking has always been popular in the Southeast, and now consumers everywhere are grilling long beyond the traditional summer season. Because of its unique features, a Holland grill can be used every day of the year—no matter what the climate might be. “One of our biggest selling points is that our grills do not have flare-ups; this keeps people from having to stand

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My T urn

“ Creating an outdoor kitchen is the easiest and cheapest way for consumers to enlarge their homes. We are absolutely looking for big things for the outdoor room for 2010, and we are giving customers an easy way to cook outside—not just in the Southeast, where we are strongest, but all over the country.” outside in uncomfortable weather to babysit the grill,” Warner says.

Since all food is cooked based on elapsed time, the outdoor chef simply places the item on the grill and then takes it off according to the time given in the Holland Grill Company recipe. “We like to say our grills are hassle free,” Warner says.

MOVING FORWARD

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40 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

In response to the recession, Warner says, Holland Grill Company “started circling the wagons, as everyone else did, and got a little tighter and leaner.” While sales started out a bit slow in early 2009, they soon picked up, and by the end of the fiscal year in September, sales were higher in both units and dollars. “We were just all thrilled with that. I think we benefited from the concern over the economy, since people stayed at home more and cooked out,” Warner says.

As the company looks toward the future, plans include beefing up its outdoor-kitchen offerings. “We hope to have some opportunities for our current dealer base, and more upscale pieces and configurations to help us gain a foothold in the larger metro markets,” Warner says. The company also hopes to make it more affordable for Holland Grill Company’s rural customers to create outdoor kitchens. “We want an outdoor kitchen on everyone’s deck,” he adds.

Warner believes that homeowners will continue to spend their dollars outdoors. “Creating an outdoor kitchen is the easiest and cheapest way for consumers to enlarge their homes. We are absolutely looking for big things for the outdoor room for 2010, and we are giving customers an easy way to cook outside—not just in the Southeast, where we are strongest, but all over the country,” he says.

Even after 15 years of cooking on a Holland grill, “I am still wowed by what it does to food; I have never taken it for granted,” Warner says. He has participated in hundreds of cooking demos, but he is still amazed at the reactions on people’s faces after they have tasted turkey cooked on a Holland grill. He says, “It’s as if they are saying, ‘My gosh, I never knew turkey could taste this good.’”

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It’s no fantasy. Bringing your private backyard paradise to life actually costs much less than you might think. Adding a beautiful Belgard hardscape is the perfect way to add fun to your lifestyle and lasting value to your home. Research shows outdoor “rooms” return 100% of their value from day one, plus they can deliver as much as 200% of their original cost at resale. Ready to make some magic?

Call 1-877-BELGARD or visit www.belgard.biz to schedule your free in home estimate.

Ask about our new modular units! ¦!Sfevdft!uif!cvsefo!po!uif!xpslgpsdf/!Efmjwfsfe!sfbez! !!!gps!jotubmmbujpo" ¦!Qspevdu!jt!dpotusvdufe!jo!b!dpouspmmfe!fowjsponfou!up!fotvsf!! !!!rvbmjuz!boe!efubjmfe!eftjho/! ¦!Sfevdft!jotubmmbujpo!ujnf!boe!dpodfsot!bcpvu!xfbuifs/ ¦!Qspkfdut!dpnqmfufe!po!ujnf!boe!jo!cvehfu/ Circle Reader Service No. 41

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Product Innovation

The Next BIG Thing

BY CHER YL DAN GEL CULLEN

Jef f B. Dor ough

California; The Peninsula Hotel, Beverly Hills, California; and the Hilton Waterfront Resort, Huntington Beach, California, as some prestigious properties that love Shademaker’s sophisticated, architectural design.

A STAND-ALONE COMPANY The Sola 3.0m is one of thr

ee styles in Shademaker’s Sidepost collection.

TREASURE GARDEN’S new division, SHADEMAKER, is CREATING A BUZZ among players IN the HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY. SINCE 1984, BALDWIN PARK, CALIFORNIA-BASED TREASURE GARDEN HAS MADE SHADE UMBRELLAS ITS BUSINESS. THE COMPANY KNOWS everything there is to know about umbrellas and the shade business—so much so that it manufactures for some of the finest brands in the world, including Shademakers of New Zealand, which it has worked for during the past several years.

“We needed a contract/hospitality line, and since we were already manufacturing the styles for several years, we completed the deal to own the rights to manufacture, market, and sell the Shademaker brand throughout most of the world. We will start with the Americas and expand from there,” Jeff B. Dorough, vice president, sales and marketing, explains.

“It is a fairly well-known product, which has been sold exclusively through a distributor for the past several years,” Dorough adds, citing the Wynn Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada; various Ritz–Carlton locations; Bistango Restaurant, Irvine,

Since the acquisition,Treasure Garden has established the Shademaker brand as a division and officially launched the brand to the market in September 2009 at the HD Boutique (Miami, Florida) and Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™ trade shows.

“The response has been very good.

We are excited. Customers are excited.

We have many quotes out and look forward to a great 2010. We have taken the brand and set up our own sales team, Web site, catalog, and sales tools.

We have selected a professional team to call on the contract/hospitality players,” Dorough says.

A STAND-UP PRODUCT

Shademaker’s Liberty 3.0m squar e umbr ella, shown her e at Bistango Restaurant in Irvine, Califor nia, is designed for both r esidential and commer cial settings. It of fers wind r esistance and low maintenance.

42 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

According to Dorough, what sets Shademaker apart from its competition is its design, which boasts a strong marine/yacht influence. He says, “It is a very seamless product. Most aluminum is powder coated in various colors, which is just a surface coat. We do a matte silver anodized finish, which is an expensive commercial finish.The color actually penetrates the metal, providing an extremely durable and luxurious look. The product itself has contemporary lines and is very elegant and sophisticated. We use the finest Delrin® parts from DuPont™, and feature awning-grade fabrics from Sunbrella® and O’bravia™.”

Dorough continues, “We are the direct manufacturer of the product; we are not a distributor. Customers can purchase small quantities, like special or custom orders,

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Product Innovation from California, or they can purchase for large international or domestic projects from our overseas factory. This is one of the finest products in its class, and it will be very competitively priced and the absolute best value in the marketplace.”

“ Designers and architects are inclined to use the Internet to gain knowledge,

MANY CHOICES

designers and architects who are looking for luxury shade products.”

The line consists of six original styles in square, octagon, and rectangle shapes. “We have three Sidepost styles and two Centerpost styles, and one very unique style called the Fiji— which hangs from any existing beam.

Our largest Sidepost style is a 16.5foot/5-meter octagon. The largest Centerpost style is an 18.5-foot/5.6meter octagon. These styles are gigantic,” Dorough says.

“Regardless of the size, the one feature everyone loves is our small-footprint design. It is the way it mounts to the ground, concrete, or wooden deck. There is no big base to stumble on or get in your way, especially in commercial environments. All you see is this small metal faceplate with four bolts holding it securely down; now, you can rotate the entire umbrella up to 360 degrees, to shade your desired area,” he adds.

as well as to specify products. One must be present online. The retail market will be very challenging in 2010 and 2011. I want to put my products in front of the

TRADE SHOWS In addition to implementing aggressive marketing campaigns for Shademaker, Treasure Garden will be exhibiting the brand at the following trade shows in 2010: • INSPIREDESIGN Show—space #C310, February 1–3, Las Vegas—World Market Center®, in conjunction with the winter Las Vegas Market®; • HD EXPO—space #643, May 19–21, Las Vegas—Sands Convention Center; • HD Boutique—space #E2611, September 13–14, Miami—Miami Convention Center; and • Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market—space #1655, September 21–24, Chicago— Merchandise Mart.

MARKETING STRATEGIES Online marketing will also play an important role for Shademaker. “We have signed up for annual banner-ad campaigns with asid.org and hdexpo.com,” Dorough says. “Designers and architects are inclined to use the Internet to gain knowledge, as well as to specify products.

One must be present online. The retail market will be very challenging in 2010 and 2011. I want to put my products in front of the designers and architects who are looking for luxury shade products.”

In the coming year, Treasure Garden will implement aggressive sales-andmarketing efforts to establish the Shademaker brand as the premier architectural shade line.

“We know the shade business. We know how to market. Our goal is to become the leading brand of umbrellas and shade products in the contract/hospitality industry,” Dorough says.

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Last Word The Outdoor-kitchen Craze Continues

B Y K I M B E R LY R O D G E R S

THE ENTHUSIASM IN FRANK MELLO’S VOICE IS APPARENT AS HE TALKS ABOUT WHAT HE SEES AS THE STILL-GROWING INTEREST IN CREATING AN outdoor room—and in the new offerings from Bull Outdoor Products, Inc.®, that meet that demand. “There are still plenty of people who want an outdoor kitchen,” Mello, vice president of sales and marketing, says. “I always like to say 85% of Americans barbecue, and 100% who barbecue want an outdoor kitchen.”

Bull Outdoor Products is noted in the industry for manufacturing high-quality outdoor-living products— from islands and grill heads to fireplaces and firepits—

The Fir e Wall is also available with a water element.

Outdoor Products is meeting that need with its Fire Water Wall. “Water dribbles down the back of the ledgestone, so you can run the water during the day, and at night, light the fire,” Mello says. “Both walls have been fantastic sellers for us, and they give us access to lawn and garden centers, which typically sell a lot of fountains.”

Outdoor island accessories continue to be snapped up by consumers who want the same conveniences of indoor kitchens in their outdoor ones. For 2010, Bull Outdoor Products is introducing a full stainless-steel refrigerator that is outdoor rated.

Offered as an upgrade item for Bull Outdoor Products

BULL OUTDOOR PRODUCTS has done exceptionally well by OFFERING VALUE-PRICED PRODUCTS with the features AND quality of HIGH-END BRANDS.

Bull Outdoor Pr oducts is now of fering carts for two of its best-selling grill heads, the Brahma (above) and the Angus

The new outdoor-rated, stainless-steel r efrigerator fr om Bull Outdoor Pr oducts

A new char coal grill, the Bison, featur air-contr ol vents on the hood and fir

es ebox.

that offer straightforward installation and value-driven prices. The company’s new grill carts are no exception.

“We’ve added carts for our two best-selling grill heads, the Angus and the Brahma,” Mello says. “The cart is very easy to assemble. It comes in one piece; you put four casters and two shelves on it, take the grill out of the box, slide it into the cart base, and it’s good to go.” If the customer decides to purchase a Bull Outdoor Products island at a later time, the grill head can simply be moved from the cart to the island. “It gives consumers a new ability to upgrade,” Mello adds.

An industry leader in selling superior grills that are built to last, Bull Outdoor Products is adding some innovative new models to its lineup. The Bison, a 30-inch stainless-steel charcoal unit with a cart, features air-control vents on the hood and firebox, giving the consumer controlled charcoal grilling. “We had an expert test it for months, and we spent a lot of time on the charcoal head, setting it up so that the coals can be shut down when cooking is finished,” Mello says.

Bull Outdoor Products will also be introducing a high-end portable camping/tailgating grill for 2010. “It will have more cooking power and features than you would normally see in a typical camping grill,” Mello says. Manufactured in all stainless steel, the new model will include “all the fancy features of our bigger grills, but toned down,” he says.

While the suggested retail price of $399 falls at the high end (for the portable-grill market), Mello believes that the reception will be strong for the new grill. “The demographic characteristic of our customers is that they want nice things,” he adds.

Mello says that the element of fire continues to be a popular part of the outdoor room, and it is a feature that more homeowners are requesting. Introduced in 2009, the Fire Wall from Bull Outdoor Products adds style and warmth to any outdoor space. Prefabricated construction and a door for access to the propane unit allow easy placement where the homeowner desires.

The soothing effect of running water plays a prominent role in creating a calming outdoor escape, and Bull

46 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

islands, the new refrigerator will be especially popular in parts of the country with extreme temperatures. “In areas where it is super hot, the refrigerator can take drinks down to 32 degrees,” Mello says. The front-venting feature of the new model will allow it to be used in more applications than the company’s current outdoor refrigerator.

A pioneer in the concept of manufactured barbecue islands, Bull Outdoor Products continues to dazzle the industry with new models. In 2009, Bull Outdoor Products introduced two new designs, the Leisure Q and Luxury Q, which are already among the company’s top five best-selling islands.

A year ago, in order to consolidate both product-storage and production operations, Bull Outdoor Products relocated to a new facility in the Southern California city of Rialto. The new site consists of two buildings (totaling 75,000 square feet), with half of the space used for warehousing and distribution and the other half dedicated to island manufacturing. “We tailor-made this place to work for us. The facility we were in before was not very efficient for both production and warehousing,” Mello says.

As of March 1, Bull Outdoor Products will also be opening a new 20,000–square-foot facility in Athens, Tennessee, devoted to island manufacturing and distribution. Bull Outdoor Products already had production operations in Tennessee; however, the new location will now give the company shipping capability. “This will mean better access to the East Coast, and shipping costs to our dealers will come down,” Mello says.

Consumers are spending their dollars creating outdoor rooms, but Mello believes that the trend is for buyers to look for value and quality, rather than the most expensive product. “Our product is positioned at a value price in a premium product category,” he says.

With all the same features and quality (including a stronger warranty) found in high-end brands, Bull Outdoor Products is well positioned for the future—and so are its dealers. “I think a lot of people still want an outdoor kitchen, but instead of spending $50,000, they are going to spend $15,000,” Mello predicts.

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{Product Profiles} Maxime by Caluco Caluco Outdoor is making a bold statement with Maxime. This scalable lounge series offers deeply cushioned lounge chairs, ottomans, and modular sectional components with modern proportions and a graphic visual outline. Dining, coffee, and side tables round out this versatile collection (which harks back to the past with the look of fine rattan furniture), created with innovative, handwoven polyester strips in dramatic espresso. Upholstery is offered in a broad variety of Sunbrella® fabrics. Contact: (866) 535-6558 or www.caluco.com.

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LaPaz Waterfall Firepit Amalfi Outstanding new designs in cast aluminum come to the floor with Amalfi, one of Agio’s new Signature series collections. The uniquely ornate scrolled backs and coordinating tabletop are complemented by a lovely fringed umbrella and matching weather-resistant cushions. Contact: www.agio-usa.com.

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Firepit Rings American Fireglass is introducing an allnew line of firepit rings. The rings are made from 304 stainless steel and have a larger center hub for better gas distribution. The rings are available in 6-, 12-, 18-, 24-, 30-, 36-, and 48-inch sizes. Contact: (888) 2641017 or www.americanfireglass.com.

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Welcome to LaPaz, the tranquil answer to lighting your backyard oasis. The Spanish penned the word for peace, la paz, but California Outdoor Concepts brought the concept to life in this magnificent firepit, which doubles as a water feature. This deeply creviced vessel, with water trailing down the intricate base, reveals at once the surprise of sound. Truly playing on all of your senses, it illuminates your garden with fire, yet calms and soothes you with the water feature.

LaPaz is the one focal point that you, your friends, and your yard deserve. If you desire firelight dancing atop a cascading waterfall placed prominently in your own exclusive corner of paradise, just say it: LaPaz. Contact: (877) 2746773 or www.californiaoutdoorconcepts.com.

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Big Green Egg Nest Handler Enhances Mobility The newest addition to the Big Green Egg® line of EGGcessories™ is the Nest Handler, which secures the EGG® to the Nest for easier mobility. The Nest has been made wider for a better center of gravity, and larger casters ensure greater stability. Available now for the large EGG, the Handler will soon be available for the extra-large and medium EGGs as well. A retrofit Handler is available for older models of the EGG. Contact: Regina@BigGreenEgg.com.

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Steak Station Steak Station™ monitors four steaks at the same time, allowing those commanding the grill to cook multiple steaks confidently, each to the desired degree of doneness. An easy-toread monitor allows for quick and easy evaluation of how much a steak has been cooked. The colorful Steak Station probes measure from 115 to 170 degrees, indicating a complete spectrum of doneness. Steak Station can also be used in the oven as a regular meat thermometer to monitor meats throughout the cooking process. Contact: (800) 521-0505 or www.companion-group.com.

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Infrared Outdoor Patio Heater The Vintage series by Patio Comfort combines the classic and elegant design elements of old-world, handcrafted aluminum components integrated beautifully into the latest in safety-oriented, functional, high-performance, long-lasting comfort heating products. The Vintage heater is protected with an antique bronze polyurethane powder coating that is electrostatically applied. The textured finish and color are designed to complement and enhance your outdoor entertaining and dining areas.

Contact: (949) 474-3070 or www.aeigrillsandheaters.com.

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A Hot Add-on for Retailers

The common denominator of popular-priced gas barbecue grills and high-end solidstainless models is the worry over stains, drips, and grease and what they can do to a deck, dock, porch, patio, or pool surround. DiversiTech has introduced The Gas Grill Splatter Mat™ to give the customer real, low-cost relief from a high-ticket potential problem; in the process, DiversiTech has given retailers an easy, high-margin add-on sales item. Made in the United States, The Gas Grill Splatter Mat protects the surfaces under gas grills, covers existing stains, and is easy to clean. It is also reversible, and it will not harm composite decking. The standard 30x48-inch size enables it to fit under most gas grills on the market. You can view the Splatter Mat at the Orgill Spring Dealer Market, booth 1206; at HPBExpo, booth 3065; and at the National Hardware Show, booth 11929. Contact: (866) 474-5572 or www.grillpad.com.

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Mirabella by Caluco

Designed with a modular approach, Caluco’s thoroughly modern Mirabella collection offers sectional seating, as well as lounge-chair, ottoman, and glass-topped–table options to round out this functional product range. Tailor-made for poolside environments, the collection also features both single and double chaises. Crafted of sleek stainless steel and durable wovenpolyester strips, all pieces share clean lines and sophisticated proportions to work in a variety of spaces. Contact: (866) 535-6558 or www.caluco.com.

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Steven Raichlen Best of Barbecue Crème Brûlée Kit This revolutionary grill concept allows grilling and dessert enthusiasts to make crème brûlée the old-fashioned way—with sugar caramelized to a hard candy crust using a fireheated cast-iron salamander. The kit contains two-cast iron ramekins and a salamander, as well as a Best of Barbecue™ recipe card. The ramekins feature flared handles that make the dishes easy to pick up, while the swiveled salamander adjusts to caramelize the sugar evenly to a beautiful golden brown—the signature of a well-prepared crème brûlée.

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

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Northstar Northstar appliances from Elmira Stove Works have 1950s retro styling with all of today’s features and convenience. They are great in any home or cottage kitchen—retro, modern, or contemporary. Northstar ranges, refrigerators, hoods, microwaves, and dishwashers are available in nine spectacular colors, with smooth curves and lots of chrome: cool, baby! Contact: (800) 295-8498 or www.elmirastoveworks.com.

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Compact Vent-free Insert The new compact fireplace insert from Empire Comfort Systems converts a narrow or short conventional fireplace into an efficient, vent-free zone-heating system. Based on the proven technology of Empire’s midsize Innsbrook vent-free insert, the new smaller version fits fireplace openings as small as 26.5 inches wide by 18.5 inches tall by just 12.75 inches deep. At 20,000 Btu, this small system generates enough heat to warm a 30x30-foot living space. The insert includes a handpainted log set, a banded-brick liner, and an automatic variable-speed blower. Three accessory surrounds—one cast-iron and two steel styles—help conceal the fireplace opening.

An assortment of replacement louvers, available in four styles and four finishes, helps match the insert to the home’s decor. All Innsbrook fireplace inserts will operate without electricity to provide heat during power failures. Contact: www.empirecomfort.com or jcleveland@empirecomfort.com.

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Big Green Egg Introduces Premier Cookbook Big Green Egg® has produced the first cookbook focusing on ceramic kamado cooking. The premier 320-page book contains over 100 color photographs and 170 recipes, ranging from appetizers to entrées, developed exclusively for the EGG®. There are favorite EGGhead™ contributions, mouthwatering vegetarian and dessert fare, and prized chefs’ and professional pit masters’ offerings, in addition to extensive tips and techniques for cooking in the EGG. The cookbook is available exclusively through Big Green Egg dealers until June 2010. Contact: jodi@biggreenegg.com.

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The number of Christmas trees that decorate homes and untold other locations during the holidays is truly staggering. As a retailer, you don’t have to sell Christmas trees to benefit financially from this favorite holiday tradition. This year, a new product from DiversiTech called the Christmas Tree Stand MAT™, is going to solve one of the problems that holiday enthusiasts have wrestled with for years: how to keep the tree fresh, moist, and green for a number of weeks while avoiding water-stained floors or carpets from constant watering. This 30-inch, lightweight, long-lasting round tree-stand mat is something that no tree owner can afford to be without. Its suggested retail price is $16.95 to $19.95. You will love the generous margins (50-plus points). You can view the MAT at the Orgill Spring Dealer Market, booth 1206; at HPBExpo, booth 3065; and at the National Hardware Show, booth 11929. Contact: (866) 474-5572 or www.grillpad.com.

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Enviro M55 Cast-iron Multifuel Stove The M55 has a low-maintenance burner and a quick-start igniter, it burns most biofuels, and it has a thermal efficiency rating of 76.6% with EPA-tested emissions of 2 grams per hour (according to OMNI Laboratories, Inc.). Compare this fire with what you see in other stoves: Enviro says that none can even come close to matching the size, beauty, and efficiency of the M55’s flame. Contact: www.enviro.com.

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Christmas Trees Can Help Green Your Bottom Line

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Enjoy Greener, Cleaner Heat We are all concerned about our environment. With Infratech heaters, you can entertain outside without producing negative environmental effects. Efficient Infratech electric heaters convert over 90% of input energy directly into infrared radiant heat, and they operate for just pennies per hour. Electric heaters are safe for use outdoors or indoors, operate silently, emit no greenhouse gases or unpleasant odors, and do not require ventilation. Infratech Comfort heater components and packaging are also completely recyclable. Contact: www.infratech-usa.com.

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Eco Glass American Fireglass is excited to introduce its newest product, Eco Glass. This glass is made of postindustrial glass that is melted down and has a colored dye added to it. Eco Glass is made up of the same ingredients as the company’s tempered glass, so it will not soot or degrade. Contact: (888) 264-1017 or www.americanfireglass.com.

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Sawgrass Mills Underwater Outdoor Rug This eye-catching bit of nautical whimsy is perfect for a child’s playroom—or for that beach-themed retreat on the back deck where the adult kids often gather to play.

Synthetic DuraCord® yarns mean that this handhooked, heirloom-quality rug won’t rot, mold, mildew, fade, or stain, yet it is soft as cotton. The Sawgrass Mills® Underwater outdoor rug comes in either 5x8-foot or 8x10-foot sizes. Contact: (800) 334-1078 or www.thehammocksource.com.

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} Loft Series Burners

Empire’s new Loft series contemporary vent-free burners complement the unique decor found in modern homes. Decorative accessory tops and firebox liners— available in polished black and brushed stainless steel—install in minutes, instantly changing the look and character of the fireplace. Empire offers three styles of decorative fireglass to help conceal the burner and create the illusion of flame floating above a reflective field. The Loft series burner can be installed in any certified vent-free firebox or masonry fireplace, or in a vented fireplace, to provide the ambience of a fire without the heat. Loft series burners are available in LP and natural-gas models in sizes of 18 inched (26,000 Btu), 24 inches (36,000 Btu), and 30 inches (40,000 Btu). Empire offers a variety of wireless and hardwired control options. Contact: www.empirecomfort.com or jcleveland@empirecomfort.com.

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Antique Elmira’s antique-style appliances bring warmth and charm to any country, 19th-century, or Victorian kitchen. These appliances feature the latest technology and convenience, without compromising their elegant, vintage styling. Available in gas, electric, woodburning, or dual-fuel models, each Elmira appliance is completely customized. Also available are refrigerators, wall ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers. Contact: (800) 295-8498 or www.elmirastoveworks.com.

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Rhythm: Pottery Outdura introduces an ethnic-inspired pattern called Rhythm, from the Calypso collection. Made from 100% solution-dyed acrylic, Rhythm has the bold look of an exotic ikat, edging out the competition. Flavored with a punch of spice-tone pop, the pottery coloration gives it a stylish, upbeat approach with a modern vibe. Contact: (866) OUTDURA or www.shufordmills.com.

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Grand Meridian Modular Masonry by FMI Products, L.L.C.

DV 60 From Westgate Luxury Fireplaces Enviro is pleased to introduce the new DV 60 from Westgate Luxury Fireplaces. This 43-inch clean fireplace has 60,000 Btu of entertaining flames and sets a new level of realism in log and liner design. Contact: www.enviro.com.

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San Marino Collection Gensun Casual Living has redesigned one of its best-selling collections: San Marino. This collection blends nature into its design, with the legs resembling the flow of water and a delicate leaf pattern in the back. Chair heights have been raised for added comfort, and table legs have been changed for an overall high-style design sure to please the most discriminating tastes. Contact: www.gensuncasual.com.

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Ingenuity meets tradition in the Grand Meridian series of masonry fireplaces. FMI Products, L.L.C., augments its patented Mosaic Masonry offering with this new class of hearth products addressing customers’ demand for the finest in full-masonry fireplaces. Lightweight construction allows for multistory applications. The series is available in wood, vent-free, and see-through versions. FMI Products save you time and money while still offering you the highest-quality fireplaces.

Contact: (866) 328-4537 or www.fmiproducts.com.

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If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, the Big Green Egg® has many admirers – all imposters seeking your business. But the ceramic cooker that will prove most effective and most profitable for you is the Big Green Egg®, which almost 40 years ago set the high standards that competitors must now meet. Top quality products, superb customer service and double-digit annual sales growth are our hallmarks and our national marketing support drives customers to your store.

EGGcept no substitute!

For further information call 770-938-9394 Ext. 103 or visit www.BigGreenEgg.com.

Majorca Dining Modern detailing and clean lines add flair to any outdoor setting with Agio’s Majorca collection, which features sleek aluminum chair frames with comfortable all-weather fabric. A coordinating umbrella adds interest to a unique, rectangular cast-aluminum tabletop finished in a multistep process to give it the appearance of genuine marble.

Contact: www.agio-usa.com.

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Here is the book that Big Green Egg® enthusiasts have been waiting for, the only one focusing exclusively on cooking in a ceramic cooker.

More than 100 color photographs, 160plus outstanding recipes developed specifically for the EGG® and a comprehensive guide to the basics of cooking in an EGG make this book a “must have.” Available exclusively at Big Green Egg dealers until June, then also in traditional book outlets.

For information on the cookbook contact Ext 106.

Visit us at HPBExpo in Orlando Outside Booth #5338 Circle Reader Service No. 55

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} Regency Collection The Regency collection, new for 2010, definitely brings the style of indoor furniture to an outdoor room.

Regency presents gentle curves in the ornamental slats of the chair back, beautiful curved legs, and intricate detailing with rosettes in the arms. Shown in the desert bronze frame finish, Regency encapsulates fine design.

Customization is available, with 11 frame-finish options and over 300 fabric choices. Contact: www.gensuncasual.com.

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Horizons Collection by Sunbrella Fabrics

Devonshire: Sleek and Sophisticated

A new collection of Sunbrella® fabrics offers bold fabric designs with contemporary flair in a color palette that is both elegant and fashion forward. Aptly named Horizons, the collection features unique design and color combinations that are nature inspired and translated into bright, clean tones. Seventeen new patterns compose Horizons, which has a variety of textures and styles that include velvet, bouclé, stripes, dots, jacquard, and damask, all suitable for interior use or for the outdoor decorating environment.

The Horizons collection is available to the trade exclusively through Silver State Fabrics and can be viewed at the company’s Web site.

Contact: www.silverstatefabrics.com.

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FMI Products, L.L.C., has introduced the Devonshire, a savvy new direct-vent gas fireplace with concealed electronic ignition that reveals only the magnificence of the fire. Its features include a clean face, a full mesh screen, ceramic glass, and a meticulously detailed log set that is unmatched in the industry. Remote-control operation produces variable flame and radiant heat. This addition to the Design Dynamics line is a must for showrooms that show only the best. Contact: (866) 328-4537 or www.fmiproducts.com.

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We craft outdoor furniture and accessories that are aordable, beautiful and well-made. We understand that focusing on our customer

is the key

to our success.

We believe

in the value of simple leisure in an overly complicated world. We are Caluco.

C ALUCO Simple Leisure. 702 Jessie Street San Fernando, CA 91340 866.535.6558 www.caluco.com Circle Reader Service No. 57

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La Costa Bar California Outdoor Concepts’ Signature series now features the La Costa in a bar height. Sleek and modern best describe this cast-aluminum firepit when the all– stainless-steel burner assembly is filled with glass. In diamond white, black, or copper, the glass provides a dramatic backdrop for the flames. A unique design feature is the lattice base, which is completely at home in a traditional setting. In chocolate brown or black, it melds perfectly with your other garden furniture and outdoorlighting fixtures. The change to ceramic logs with authentic markings will turn your outdoor area warm and inviting. The design choice is yours. Contact: (877) 274-6773 or www.californiaoutdoorconcepts.com.

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Lightweight Bubbler Rocks

Hatteras Hammocks All-Weather–Wicker Roman Arc

Hargrove Manufacturing Corp. introduces Eternal Springs Waterscapes, a line of fine-quality, lightweight-concrete bubbler rocks and pondless waterfeature kits designed for simple installation by consumers or professional installers. Bubbler rocks are available in six styles/sizes and three colors, with rigid-basin or soft-liner pond kits available in two standard sizes. Contact: (800) 725-4166 or www.hargroveoutdoor.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 131

Crafted of weather-tough, natural-looking, brown-toned synthetic wicker atop a powder-coated steel frame fitted with stainless-steel hardware, the sleek Hatteras Hammocks allweather–wicker Roman Arc® is intricately built and woven for a long life of outdoor leisure. The main curve of this stylish, 15-foot hammock stand recalls classic Roman archways or the body of some bygone sailing ship. The hammock and pillow are sold separately. Contact: (800) 334-1078 or www.thehammocksource.com.

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Retractable Awnings Made With Sunbrella Fabrics Though it is still winter, many consumers are already planning for the outdoor-living season by adding retractable awnings made with Sunbrella® fabrics to their homes. Retractable awnings make outdoor-living spaces more usable, adding shaded square footage without the hassle of traditional construction. While they provide a shady oasis for relaxing, awnings also reduce heat gain inside the home, helping consumers save on energy costs.

With subtle, beautiful awning fabrics such as Sunbrella Silica Dune, a variety of furniture styles and Sunbrella fabric combinations can be used beneath the awning to create a colorful outdoor oasis. For more information on awnings made with Sunbrella fabrics, visit the company’s Web site. Contact: www.sunbrella.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 132

Infratech Create comfortable outdoor spaces with clean electric infrared heaters from Infratech. W-series heaters are 90% efficient, UL approved for outdoor and indoor installations, and may be wall, ceiling, or beautifully flush mounted. Specially designed electric quartz elements produce safe infrared radiant energy. Operating for just pennies per hour, Infratech heaters will provide years of maintenance-free warmth at the flip of a switch and make an attractive addition to any outdoor room.

Contact: (800) 421-9455 or www.infratech-usa.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 133

Inspired by the Sun: Solaris Heat & Glo is proud to introduce the Solaris. It is the world’s thinnest see-through circular fireplace and features artistic performance never seen before in fireplaces. Available in two models, it can be installed on a wall constructed using 2x6-inch framing. The Solaris 36-ST has a transparent burner positioned at the center of the fireplace, producing levitating flames that appear to be suspended in midair. The Solaris 36-MR has the same advanced burner technology and is outfitted with LED lighting and with mirrored glass that creates the illusion of many flames dancing into infinity; this effect is viewable from both sides of the fireplace/wall. For the surround, 36 color combinations of powder coat or gloss paint are available. The Solaris was the recipient of 2009 Vesta Awards in the hearth categories of Best of Show and Best Gas Fireplace. Available in the second quarter of 2010, the Solaris is sure to change traditional perceptions of fireplaces dramatically. Contact: (800) 427-3973 or www.heatnglo.com.

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} Value, Beauty, and Warmth: Novus nXt Heatilator® continues to innovate with the Novus™ series of fireplaces, which earned a Consumers Digest Best Buy rating in 2008. The Novus nXt is a value-priced, high-efficiency, direct-vent gas fireplace that can produce up to 30,000 Btu of heat per hour. It is an excellent choice for homeowners who want to use a gas fireplace for zone heating in their living spaces. The Novus nXt has many standard features, including intermittent pilot ignition, ceramic glass that radiates more heat, and controls that allow homeowners to adjust the flames and heat to desired levels. Contact: (800) 843-2848 or www.heatilator.com Circle Reader Service No. 135

Energy Master I Stoker Model 608

Multifaceted textures and tones create the visually delightful pattern Jubilee. Its raw-silk look exudes the artistry of handwoven fabric in its finest form. From the Outdura Touch of Tradition collection, Jubilee has a tranquil palette of watercolor blues and greens that flows through the Aegean coloration to soothe the soul. Contact: (866) OUTDURA or www.shufordmills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 137

A 2008 Vesta Award finalist, the Energy Master I Stoker model 608 is one of the most efficient and environmentally friendly stoves on the market. Included among its many features are an integrated Coal-Trol™ digital thermostat (allowing precise heat output control, which saves fuel) and a 7,000- to 90,000-Btu output. The Energy Master I burns rice-sized anthracite coal and features a 320-cfm distribution blower, as well as a large self-feeding hopper capable of holding up to 90 pounds of coal. Contact: (260) 589-8536 or www.hitzer.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 136

FROM BURGERS AND BRATS TO TUNA STEAKS AND FILETS REACH ALL SEGMENTS OF THE CONSUMER GRILLING MARKET

Jubilee: Aegean

BEST

BETTER

Safe for composite decking Economical and great margins Traps grease and liquids Reversible Easily cleaned 30 in. x 48 in.

Safe for composite decking 40 point margin Protects against sparks, spills and stains Flexible, durable and lightweight Available in various shapes and colors

www.splattermat.com

www.grillpad.com

Visit us at the HPBA Expo, Booth #3065 and National Hardware Show, Booth #11929.

866.474.5572

What’s under your grill?™ Circle Reader Service No. 60

60 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

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Dave Lennox Signature Collection Spectra Gas Fireplace With an exquisite, arched cast-iron facing and a weathered, brick-look firebox interior suitable for any decor, the Spectra™ gas fireplace defines luxurious comfort with the Lennox Total Comfort Control system. A valve system with battery backup ensures reliable operation—even during power failures—and a standard six-speed blower allows control of flame height, heat output, and other functions. Exclusive to Spectra is a tiered-flame burner with charred split-oak logs; these combine to deliver a spectacular fire presentation. Contact: www.lennoxhearthproducts.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 138

Infrared SearMate

by Holland

Havenhill

The Infrared SearMate by Holland is a gas-powered infrared searing unit that attaches to all full-size Holland gas grills. Built with an indestructible stainless-steel heat shield and a full-size, heavy-gauge steel lid for protection, the SearMate can boast the same robustness as all Holland grills. Holland Grill customers appreciate the ingenuity necessary to add the value of 900-degree searing easily to the long list of cooking capabilities— without having to buy another complete grill. Contact: (800) 880-9766, www.hollandgrill.com, or (for dealer inquiries) Scott Warner at swarner@hollandgrill.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 139

With its contemporary frame design and uniquely flared comfort sling, the Havenhill collection offers a stylish respite in a fast-paced world. Six robust aluminum frames and multiple seating options and styles, as well as countless finishes and fabrics, round out this simple (yet classic) collection, making it the perfect fit for any decor. Contact: www.homecrest.com.

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} It’s All the Rave, by Heatilator One of the newest additions to Heatilator’s growing portfolio of modern-style fireplaces is the Rave™ directvent gas fireplace. This classy, competitively priced fireplace features a rectangular, linear design that is sure to capture attention in your showroom. It can be positioned at any height on the wall and features elongated, dancing flames that spread across the entire firebox. Homeowners may choose from two front-design options and a bed of black or white media rocks. The Rave is an ultramodern fireplace for those homeowners who want to update their spaces with an exciting new focal point. Contact: (800) 843-2848 or www.heatilator.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 141

Rustic Timbers by Hargrove

Lennox Hearth Products Introduces Design Central

Rustic Timbers™ is the latest offering in Hargrove’s Vesta Award-winning Radiant Heat vented log series. Rustic Timbers further refines the company’s Radiant Riser™ technology, giving radiant-heating efficiency comparable to that of a vent-free log set while retaining the beauty and realism found only in Hargrove vented gas logs. Hargrove’s innovative new molding process reproduces the intricate textures of nature in ceramic fiber, creating a warm and inviting glow in the heart of the log set, with all the detail of Hargrove’s traditional refractory log sets. Rustic Timbers works with standard Hargrove vented burner systems, and is available in 21-inch through 36-inch sizes and in see-through configurations. Contact: (800) 725-4166 or www.hargrovegaslogs.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 142

To help consumers visualize their fireplace selections before making a final buying decision, Lennox Hearth Products has launched Design Central. The latest addition to LennoxHearthProducts.com allows visitors to get an up-close-and-personal look at products while mixing and matching accessories for featured products.

Users navigating Design Central answer questions asking whether their desired product is a fireplace or an insert, whether it burns gas or wood, and whether it is for decorative or heating use. Based on the responses to those questions, the tool will display a list of Lennox models for the user to tailor to a specific decor.

Contact: www.lennoxhearthproducts.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 143

It Roasts. It Smokes. It Grills.

Introducing the RoastMaster 70K BTU Thermostatically Controlled Grill. Available as an island insert or standalone.

Standalone grill

Island insert configuration

Contact us at grills@mindengrill.com.

See it at the HPBExpo booth 2550.

MindenGrill.com

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62 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

Marth Invests in Pellet-fuel Future

Marth Wood Pellets has added a multimillion-dollar chipping facility to its Marathon, Wisconsin, location.

This process will give Marth’s customers confidence in the long-term future of consistent, uncontaminated fiber for its wood-pellet products. Marth will be able to increase pellet production without the worry of sacrificing quality by using unclean sources of wood fiber. Contact: www.Marthwood.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 144

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Resolution Direct-vent Fireplace System From Vermont Castings The new Resolution direct-vent fireplace system from Vermont Castings offers a large, clear ceramic-glass window for 1,080 square inches of viewing area to let you truly enjoy the warmth and ambience of the dancing flames. Its dual-burner design allows you to shut off the rear burner to reduce the Btu output from 50,000 to 17,000—making it perfect for installation in nearly any space. The Total Signature Command™ system, including a full-function handheld remote, provides one-of-a-kind electronic ignition with battery backup—meaning that you can operate your gas fireplace even in a power outage—and the ability to turn off the standing pilot makes the Resolution an energy-efficient choice as well. With optional black texture handforged arched doors and standard American ledgestone firebrick walls and hearth brick, the Vermont Castings Resolution offers your customers the opportunity to weave warm memories around hearth and home. Contact: (800) 867-0454 or www.vermontcastings.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 145

Seneca

Valor H4

Hudson River Stove Works is proud to introduce the Seneca medium wood stove. This unit is ruggedly constructed, comes in a black finish, and has a standard ash pan. This model comes standard with a cast-iron cookstove top and an ultraclean glass system. The Seneca has a 10-hour burn time and can accommodate a 19-inch log. This attractive stove is an affordable and efficient way to heat your home.

Contact: Jack or Scott at (800) 8731330 or www.hudsonriverstoves.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 146

With contemporary styling accompanied by impressive heat performance, the Valor H4 gas fireplace is available in bronze, black, and brushed nickel. You can easily manage heat output and product efficiency thanks to the Valor wall-switch kit and programmable handheld remote control, which are standard with every H4. Contact: www.valorfireplaces.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 147

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} Patriot Charcoal Grill

Whole-home Green Heat: HydroFlex60 Designed for today’s environmentally conscious homeowners, the HydroFlex60 connects to the existing central heating system and hot-water heater. The units work together simultaneously, making it possible for the homeowner to adjust thermostats based on current market prices for the fuels. Simple and easy to install in tight spaces, the HydroFlex60 cranks out 60,000 Btu per hour and has a 160-pound hopper. It features Harman’s patented Pellet Pro feeder and burn pot, which make it possible for homeowners to use low-quality, lessexpensive pellet fuel and still get maximum heat and efficiency. Contact: (800) 843-2848 or www.harmanstoves.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 148

Holland Grill is proud to introduce the Patriot charcoal grill—its first-ever offering in this popular grilling category.

Manufactured in the United States, the Patriot is built with the same high-quality construction that you’ve come to expect from Holland. The aluminum body resists rust, and the company puts stainless steel inside where you need it. The stainless bar grate features a multilevel rack system, so you can place your food at just the right height above the hot coals. A handy access door is built right into the cooking grate to let you add charcoal as you need it, without disturbing the food. Four stainless airflow shutters give you the option of low-andslow cooking, as well as the ability to heat things up for a nice charcoal-seared steak. The Patriot is a perfect complement to the company’s full line of legendary gas grills and will give your customers what they demand: choices. Visit the company’s Web site to learn more. If you’re interested in becoming a Holland retail dealer, contact Scott Warner at swarner@hollandgrill.com. Be sure to visit Holland at HPBExpo 2010 in March in Orlando, Florida. Booth #2833 indoors will be fully staffed to answer your questions, and Holland staff will be grilling outside, of course, in booth #6753. Contact: www.hollandgrill.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 149

Face It: More Than Just a Pretty Face Ironhaus now offers handcrafted fireplace doors to enhance many wood fireplaces: Isokern, Fire Rock, MasonLite, FMI, Design Dynamics, Vanguard, Heatilator, Heat & Glo, Lennox, and more. Contact the company with your bestselling wood fireplace and let Ironhaus face it. The doors are made in Montana. Contact: (866) 880-0900, sales@ironhaus.com, or www.ironhaus.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 150

Kamado Joe Natural Lump Charcoal

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Kamado Joe® 100% natural lump charcoal is the perfect heat source for baking, grilling, or smoking. It’s made from a blend of hardwood trees, and this charcoal burns cleaner, hotter, and longer than other brands do. Cook low and slow at 225 degrees for mouthwatering smoked meats or at temperatures as high as 750 degrees or more for steak that sizzles when it’s served. This 100% natural lump charcoal lets the true flavor of your food come through, every time.

Contact: (678) 866-0642 or www.kamadojoe.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 151

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Travira Collection The classic (yet sleek) look of the Travira collection makes it suitable for any outdoor-dining situation. The lightweight, stainless-steel frames, combined with mesh or teakwood seats and backs, move and stack easily. The table is available in a 39inch square size. Contact: (877) 866-3331 or www.oxfordgarden.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 152

Marth Wood Pellets Increases Capacity

Morsø 5660 NA Fireplace Insert The Morsø 5660 NA fireplace insert, with a modern design, uses cast iron’s natural and living structure to give off a rustic (yet elegant) tone. This innovative insert has an advanced combustion system supplied with tertiary air, enabling the stove to comply with the strictest environmental standards, including those of Washington State. This mighty wood insert—which fits practically all masonry open fireplaces—has an extralarge combustion chamber that can accommodate 20-inch logs and heats living spaces of up to 2,200 square feet. With emissions of 4.5 grams per hour and more than 75% efficiency, the Morsø 5660 NA also qualifies for an IRS 30% consumer tax credit (up to $1,500). The Morsø 5660 NA offers an optional blower kit and wider-trim kit; a zero-clearance cabinet will be made available in spring 2010. Contact: (866) 883-9619 or www.morsona.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 153

Marth Wood Pellets has increased capacity at its Marathon, Wisconsin, manufacturing facility by adding an additional pellet mill and a new packaging line. With the addition of this added capacity, Marth will be able to expand its market area and continue to provide high-quality hardwood pellets to customers across the nation.

Marth has two pellet-manufacturing facilities located in Central and Northeastern Wisconsin.

Contact: www.Marthwood.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 154

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MLW Stone, L.L.C., Introduces StacKIT Natural Stacked-stone Fireplace Kits This new product has the look and workmanship of authentic, natural stacked stone. Integrated with today’s innovative technology, it reduces significantly the cost of installation. Most natural stackedstone fireplaces are cut and installed in individual pieces—but StacKIT surrounds are prefabricated into panels that are cut to standard fireplace-kit sizes and can be installed in minutes, just as you would install a marble or granite surround. These kits are stocked in MLW’s three standard sizes and include a header, two legs, a riser, and a threepiece hearth; 6x24-inch interlocking panels, complete with corner pieces, are also available to accommodate raised hearths and wall applications. The product is available in two colors: Carden gold and multicolor.

Visit MLW Stone at HPBExpo, space #1724. Contact: (800) 477-7665 Ext. 127.

Circle Reader Service No. 155

Minden Grill’s RoastMaster Minden Grill Company is pleased to introduce the new Minden RoastMaster™ built-in grill, which builds on the success of the Minden Master grill. The RoastMaster grill has been designed as a drop-in insert to be used in custom applications. The RoastMaster grill has several unique attributes. It works as an oven as well as a grill, with four stainless-steel grill burners and two stainless-steel oven burners. With a main cooking area of 610 square inches and 815 square inches overall—and 60,000 Btu—the RoastMaster grill is the centerpiece of outdoor entertaining. With a 12-inch– high, easy-open, drop-away lid, cooking large items is a snap. The oven burners are temperature controlled for roasting and smoking. There is also an easy-access tray for wood chips. The Minden RoastMaster grill is available in propane and natural-gas versions and comes in a classic black porcelain-coated finish. Contact: www.mindengrill.com.

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66 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

Welldesigned Classic With Beautiful Curves The stoves of the Morsø 6100 series are simple in design, yet timeless in style. Consisting of four models—the 6140 on a low base, the 6143 oval pillar, the 6148 sculptural pedestal, and the poised, wall-mounted 6170—this series of highperforming, elegantly designed wood stoves heats up to 1,000 square feet. Tax-credit qualified, the Morsø 6100 series, constructed with high-quality 98% recycled cast iron, offers low emissions (4.1 grams per hour), and an outside-air capability makes the 6100 compliant with Washington State requirements. The maximum heat output is 30,000 Btu per hour. Contact: (866) 883-9619 or www.morsona.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 157

The New Phoenix Grill

ProFire Grills, a division of Modern Home Products Corp., has introduced the new Phoenix grill, designed to increase outdoor-cooking capabilities. With a new outdoorcooking platform, this grill is equipped with features that allow it to grill, roast, steam, and smoke foods. A heavy-duty, cast-aluminum drip pan shields food from the open flame, creating an indirect, reduced–flare-up cooking environment. During grilling and roasting, juices drip on the hot drip pan, creating smoke that adds flavor to food. Separate left and right heat controls on the solid-brass dual-valve control panel raise or lower the dual stainless-steel burner to adjust the cooking range from 250 to 500 degrees. Contact: (888) 781-4657 or www.profiregrills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 158

Capri Collection The Capri is the seating answer to outdoor events. A simple folding chair, done with flair, it adds style and seating space to any affair. This collection is constructed of acacia wood. Classically styled dining tables come in 34-inch or 42-inch square sizes.

Contact: (877) 866-3331 or www.oxfordgarden.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 159

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WoodMaster Flex Fuel Furnaces Heat with cordwood, wood chips, and/or wood pellets in the first U.S.-made Flex Fuel indoor and outdoor furnaces. Engineered with proven clean technologies from SOLARFOCUS, which has built these furnaces in Europe for more than 13 years, Flex Fuel furnaces will now be produced by WoodMaster in the United States. WoodMaster Flex Fuel furnaces generate up to 200,000 Btu, with emissions that surpass applicable 2010 EPA standards. A self-cleaning, larger ash chamber and other features reduce maintenance. Batch-burn and heat-storage technology is more efficient, with fewer stops, starts, and smoke than other furnace designs. Find a dealer, calculate your savings, and learn more about Flex Fuel furnaces at the company’s Web site. Contact: www.WoodMaster.com. See us at HPBExpo, Booth #2357.

Circle Reader Service No. 161

LHD45 Linear Directvent Gas Fireplace

Omega Mantels: Natural Stone

This modern, linear gas fireplace is specifically designed to provide a sophisticated fire element that is perfect for both new building and renovation projects. The LHD45 comes standard with Napoleon’s exclusive topaz CRYSTALINE™ ember bed, which sparkles with a luxurious glow. To create a dramatic mix, optional river rocks and colored glass are available to enhance the topaz CRYSTALINE ember bed. Contact: (888) 726-2220 or www.napoleonfireplaces.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 160

Omega Mantels of Stone is pleased to introduce its newest line of high-quality mantels made of natural stone. The unit shown features polished stone, which is sure to bring beauty and luster to any home. Omega’s natural-stone mantels are available and ready to ship.

Contact: (877) 254-3965 or www.omegamouldings.com.

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AlluraFire Electric Fireplaces From Majestic With true-to-life logs, glowing embers, and richly colored dancing flames, Allura-Fire electric fireplaces offer your customers the ambience of fire created through the magic of Majestic’s electric-fireplace technology. Allura-Fire offers the perfect fireplace solution in a range of sizes to suit any application, with a maximum of 5,000 Btu for the 26- and 33-inch sizes and 10,000 maximum Btu for the 36-inch model. The standard three-prong plug and cord on the two smaller Allura-Flame fireplaces make installation simple, and the 36inch model comes ready for hardwired installation right from the factory.

With a convenient remote control that provides the ability to control the flame height, the fan, the ember-bed intensity, the ambient overhead-light feature, and the on/off function—plus the sandstone refractory on the sides of the firebox and the beautifully decorative arched face—the Allura-Fire from Majestic is the perfect fire for every customer’s home. Extra feature: Use the handheld remote control to turn off the ambient lighting and flames to make the Majestic Allura-Fire electric fireplace the perfect bedroom heater. Contact: (800) 867-0454 or www.majesticproducts.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 163

All-new Fyre Gems

by Real-Fyre Brilliant and shimmering, Fyre Gems are the latest sensation in modern hearth design. As the newest addition to Real-Fyre’s Contemporary Alternatives line, the all-new Fyre Gems create a luminous and dazzling hearth. Fifteen distinctive colors can be used as an alternative to vented gas logs; in an outdoor firepit; and for decorative use in patios, landscaping, or aquariums. Contact: (800) 332-0240 or www.rhpeterson.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 164

Hybrid Cast-aluminum Gas Grill Modern Home Products has introduced its Chef’s Choice Heritage series hybrid gas grill. The popular cast-aluminum Heritage series will be available as a hybrid grill.

The WHRG4DD has a 574–square-inch cooking area and is powered by one infrared burner and two cast–stainless-steel oval burners.

The unit is packed with great features, such as a lifetime warranty on its permanent mold-cast aluminum grill housing, cast stainless-steel burners, and patented SearMagic cooking grids/warming rack and grill mountings. The series is available in natural- or LP-gas versions for stationary, portable, and built-in applications. Other features include electronic ignition that lights individual burners, exclusive self-cleaning porcelain briquettes, stainless-steel fold-down side shelves, and the Sta-Kool stainless-steel lid handle. Contact: (888) 647-4745 or www.mhpgrills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 165

4FF .PSF (SFFO

8PPE.BTUFS QSPWJEFT VONBUDIFE EFBMFS TVQQPSU Comprehensive dealer startup packages, co-op advertising Advertising and tradeshow sales leads Early buy incentives for increased margin Trained territory representatives Interest free oor planning to qualiďŹ ed dealers Call 1-800-932-3629 to join the WoodMaster team now.

Offer your customers up to a $1,500 tax credit on qualiďŹ ed models purchased through 2010.

For a special offer, visit nwmdealer.com

WoodMaster wood, bio-fuel and Flex Fuel furnaces and pellet grills are a naturally proďŹ table way to serve your customers, save them money and add more green to your bottom line.

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Rinnai EnergySaver Intelligent Fireplace

SMART ERV Energyrecovery Ventilator

Now, you can have it all. The Rinnai EnergySaver™ Intelligent fireplace offers high efficiency, unmatched comfortable heating capabilities, and many unique features and benefits—all in one high-performance, direct-vent gas fireplace. As featured in HGTV’s 2010 Green Home, the EnergySaver fireplace will be the star performer of your home’s heating solution, all while you enjoy a beautiful, cozy fireplace. Up to 83% AFUE efficient, the EnergySaver fireplace automatically modulates the heat output up or down by up to 60%, accurately maintaining the desired temperature set point.

You get only the heat you desire, saving you money—and helping the environment. The unique position of the warm-air outlet, under the flame picture, is most effective for heating the living space. It also means that home accessories (such as televisions) that can be sensitive to heat can be more easily placed above the fireplace. With its integrated power vent system, the EnergySaver fireplace can handle challenging installation applications, including venting in downward directions. Learn more about these and many other unique features and benefits of the Rinnai EnergySaver Intelligent fireplace. Contact: (800) 621-9419 or www.rinnai.us.

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SMART air & energy solutions™ is a collection of HVAC products designed to enhance comfort, improve indoor air quality, and save energy for homeowners. Today, everyone understands that we need to explore options for saving energy—while remaining comfortable in our homes. SMART air & energy solutions offers products designed to provide economical options while maximizing comfort. The newest addition to the SMART product lineup is the SMART ERV energy-recovery ventilator. This unit provides a fresh-air supply and humidity-control unit for residential housing. The unique poly wheel yields up to an industry-leading 80% heat-recovery efficiency, and the twin variable-speed fans allow the installer to adjust airflow from 50 to 240 cfm—so the single unit can be adjusted for a residence of almost any size. Contact: www.smartairandenergy.com.

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Solarium Casual Creations offers Solarium, its woven, ultraplush deep seating lounge chair with handwoven Viro® side panels and back splay in a surround of handcrafted extruded aluminum. Finished in a rich saddle powder coat, Solarium is available in a wide choice of designer-styled fabrics and an exciting palette of solid and artisan-handpainted fauxfinish options. The Solarium woven collection is available in sling, comfort sling, and cushion dining choices, with coordinated occasional and dining tables in an extensive assortment of sizes. Contact: (866) 355-8523 or www.casualcreations.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 169

MHP is your one-source for a complete Barbeque Grill Product Line that offers quality, innovation and reliability. s Introducing The New Phoenix Grill s Quality Cast Aluminum MHP Grills s High-End Stainless Steel ProFire Grills s Distinctive Outdoor Lighting Solutions

WeatherReady by Two Dogs Designs Two Dogs Designs for Outdoor Living is expanding its line of WeatherReady™ outdoor covers, sized to fit a variety of larger round and rectangular tables, bistro sets, double chaises, oversized sofas, stack and high chairs, and round grills/smokers, including those that are egg shaped. The covers are attractively priced and offer good quality, and they are made of durable, 600denier polyester with PVC linings and Velcro® tie-downs for a perfect, secure fit. WeatherReady covers come in black or khaki. For more information, contact the company. Contact: (866) 896-3644, twodogsdesigns@aol.com, or www.twodogsdesigns.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 167

s Providing outstanding products and service for 50 years We produce a full-line of aftermarket repair & replacement parts.

All brands/OEM

888.647.4745 www.mhpgrills.com 3OUTH 2AM 2OAD s !NTIOCH ), 60002

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Rinnai Impression Outdoor Fireplace

Omega Mantels of Stone offers custom-designed mantels for any room in the house. All mantels from Omega Mantels of Stone are available in custom sizes. Omega's natural-stone mantels are available and ready to ship. Contact: (877) 254-3965 or www.omegamouldings.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 171

Featured in the HGTV 2010 Dream Home, the Rinnai Impression™ outdoor fireplace redefines outdoor living. Available in freestanding (burner only), one-sided, and see-through cabinet models, Impression has a sleek, linear design that makes it a distinctive and customizable focal point of your outdoor-living area. Impression is made of the highestquality materials (such as stainless steel, natural granite, and quartz stone), with Rinnai design and technical know-how. Because it has no venting or electrical requirements, the Rinnai Impression outdoor fireplace is designed for easy installation and worry-free operation.

Contact: (800) 621-9419 or www.rinnai.us.

Circle Reader Service No. 170

Bellagio Patio Heater The Napoleon® Bellagio™ patio heater is a 360-degree art form that can be enjoyed 365 days of the year. The beauty of a natural flame provides a conversation piece and longer outdoor pleasures in the evening, the early morning, or during seasonal temperature changes.

The Napoleon Bellagio patio heater is designed to be viewed, so it’s best placed where it can be viewed from all sides. Contact: www.napoleongrills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 172

New Fyre Glass Colors by Real-Fyre

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70 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2010

There are now 15 crushed Fyre Glass colors in Real-Fyre’s Contemporary Alternatives line.

For brilliance and luster in wood-burning fireplaces, this modern addition vibrantly transforms any room. Fyre Glass can be used as an alternative to vented gas logs; in an outdoor firepit; and for decorative use in patios, landscaping, or aquariums. Contact: (800) 332-0240 or www.rhpeterson.com.

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WoodMaster Pellet Grill

Decorative Rock Kit From Valor

Get authentic grilled flavor from the WoodMaster pellet grill, which offers consistent, even heat at 225–500 degrees—with no hot spots. Grill, barbecue, bake, and smoke with flavorpacked hardwood pellets that contain moisture, for juicier, tastier results.

WoodMaster pellet grills cook more safely than most gas or propane grills, with indirect heat that minimizes benzopyrene, as recommended by the National Cancer Institute. Using the pellet grill costs $0.75 to $1.25 less per hour than using propane does, and the autostart feature gets you cooking in a few minutes. You can also create a custom grill exterior with color, a company logo, or your team’s logo. Visit the company’s Web site to find a dealer and learn more about pellet grills. Contact: www.WoodMaster.com/grill.

Circle Reader Service No. 174

Valor introduces the decorative rock kit accessory, available on several Valor gas-fireplace models.

Containing 10 additional stones designed to complement the existing Creekside firebed, Valor’s decorative rock kit provides added value to already-popular rock fire family. Contact: www.valorfireplaces.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 177

Pallet-jack Pellet Delivery

Introducing the Team Grill Tailgate Series This is the serious tailgating grill for diehard sports fans: introducing the Team Grill Tailgate series for spring 2010.

Perfect for grilling at the game, the Team Grill Tailgate series is a portable version of the Team Grill Patio series introduced in 2009. Available for more than 30 college sports teams, the Team Grill Tailgate series can be collapsed and transported like a travel suitcase, complete with heavy-duty wheels and a carrying handle. For dealer information, available teams, and pricing, visit the company’s Web site. Contact: www.teamgrill.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 178

WoodPellets.com has introduced a new pallet-jack pellet-delivery service that allows easy and convenient placement of pallets of wood-pellet bags in hard-to-reach places, such as the back of a garage. Customers can have their fuel placed exactly where they want it, without having to break into the protective shrouding and haul bags one by one. Drivers place each pallet on the jack, which is wheeled over hard, flat ground to places that big forklifts can’t go. Contact: www.WoodPellets.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 175

Broil King Regal Series The all new Regal series features a stylish, contemporary design while still producing the same legendary cooking results you’d expect from Broil King. Equipped with a powerful 50,000-Btu main burner, 695 square inches of total cooking space, and steakhousequality cast-iron cooking grids, the Regal series has the capacity to handle your biggest parties . . . and look great doing it. Contact: (800) 245-5138 or www.broilkingbbq.com.

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DuraBlack Stainless Steel For those preferring the look of stainless steel for their stovepipes, Simpson Dura-Vent now offers the DuraBlack single-wall stovepipe made of cold-rolled steel. An added benefit of stainless steel is its quality of corrosion resistance. The product is made in the United States. Contact: (800) 835-4429 or www.duravent.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 179

Introducing Treasure Garden’s New Treasure Chest For years, dealers have counted on Treasure Garden® to help their customers protect their outdoor products using its extensive line of protective furniture covers. Now, Treasure Garden expands outdoor protection with the Treasure Chest. This lightweight, portable chest is great for storing cushions, outdoor toys, pool accessories, or any other treasure that the consumer might have. It features a comfortable lift handle, wheels, and an arched top (for water runoff), and it can even be hung upright on the wall. Best of all, it is constructed from material specifically designed to match the company’s already-attractive, champagne-colored protective covers. Contact: info@treasuregarden.com or www.treasuregarden.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 180

WeatherReady by Two Dogs Designs Two Dogs Designs for Outdoor Living is expanding its line of WeatherReady™ outdoor covers, sized to fit a variety of larger round and rectangular tables, bistro sets, double chaises, oversized sofas, stack and high chairs, and round grills/smokers, including those that are egg shaped. The covers are attractively priced and offer good quality, and they are made of durable, 600-denier polyester with PVC linings and Velcro® tie-downs for a perfect, secure fit. WeatherReady covers come in black or khaki. For more information, contact the company. Contact: (866) 896-3644, twodogsdesigns@aol.com, or www.twodogsdesigns.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 181

Split Bonfire Charred Gas Log Set Part of the Bonfire series of gas logs, this set comes with the original two-piece front log designed in the 1990s by Golden Blount and copied by all. The new charredlook accents, highly textured logs, and realistic coloring make this set a great addition to any showroom. It is available in 18-, 21-, 24-, 30-, and 36-inch sizes in natural- or LP-gas versions, and see-through sets are also available. Contact: (800) 833-1139 or www.goldenblountinc.com.

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Tyler Retail

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For almost 30 years, Tyler has been delivering cost-effective solutions to retailers across North America. From the beginning, it has focused on improving profitability by enabling specialty retailers to make better buying and selling decisions. The Tyler solution set provides timely and accurate information about every area of a hearth and patio dealer’s business: sales performance, product installation and repairs, return on inventory investment, customer purchase history, product distribution, payroll, accounting, and consumer financing.

Contact: (800) 237-5913 or www.tylernet.com.

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Model 30-95

Model 50-93

There is a whole world of reasons to choose the Hitzer Model 30-95 Ez-Flo and Hitzer Model 50-93 Ez-Flo, both manufactured by a Swiss Amish craftsman.

These two models are the anthracite–coalburning industry’s leader in self-feeding stoves, require no moving parts to burn, put out up to 95,000 Btu, are environmentally friendly, are U.S. made, and have a thermostat-control combustion air system. Each model has a large, self-feeding hopper capable of holding from 30 to 50 pounds of coal. Contact: (260) 589-8536 or www.hitzer.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 184

AERO Market Umbrella

Tribeca Tribeca, the engaging new deep seating collection from Homecrest Outdoor Living, features a distinctive double-arc back and arm reminiscent of a garden arbor.

Meticulously crafted of a durable aluminum frame paired with plush tailored cushions, Tribeca is available in a variety of Homecrest fabrics and frame finishes. Contact: www.homecrest.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 185

The ZipJack AERO market umbrella changed the look of the classic market umbrella forever. Its patented canopy design gives the umbrella distinctive styling, while crosswinds and updrafts pass right through the canopy’s venting system. Easy maintenance enhances its attractiveness. The ZipJack AERO market umbrella can help every specialty patio retailer stand out above the crowd.

Contact: (914) 592-2000 or sales@zipjack.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 186

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DuraPro Fresh Air Kit Simpson Dura-Vent’s new patent-pending DuraPro airintake wall thimble and ceiling support boxes supply outdoor air for combustion for wood and pellet stoves, including below-grade applications. This eliminates using conditioned inside air as combustion air, minimizes down-drafts in belowgrade installations, and simplifies installations with only one wall or ceiling penetration. Available in decor black finish, the products are made in the United States. Contact: (800) 835-4429 or www.duravent.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 187

Team Grill Patio Series Game-Day One of the new additions to the Team Grill 2010 lineup is the Patio series Game-Day grill. With three stainless-steel burners and 30,000 Btu, the Game-Day packs plenty of cooking power in its compact frame. The Team Grill signature front shelf folds up to conceal the control panel when the grill is not in use. More than 300 square inches of shelf space, undergrill gas-tank storage, and a built-in bottle opener help create a one-of-a-kind grilling experience for game day and every day. For dealer information, available teams, and pricing, visit the company’s Web site.

Contact: www.teamgrill.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 188

Tyler Retail Several years ago, Tyler pioneered technology called TylerNet to enhance the growth and profitability of retailers such as hearth and patio dealers. This was accomplished by lowering the upfront and ongoing costs associated with automating a retail business, while providing software to control inventory, improve sales performance, and reduce overhead. Contact: (800) 237-5913 or www.tylernet.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 189

A NEW FAMILY MEMBER Founded in 1978, FMI has established itself as one of the premier full line fireplace manufacturers to the hearth industry. Senior and middle management are comprised of long tenured, seasoned veterans who know the hearth industry well. In 2009, this senior management team acquired the assets of Desa’s hearth business, commonly referred to as FMI, to form FMI Products, LLC. FMI Products, LLC is privately held, financially sound, and has no bank or venture capital indebtedness. Management is committed to customer service and prides itself on being the easiest company to do business with in the hearth industry. Recently the company has marketed and sold products under the FMI, Design Dynamics, Vanguard, and Comfort Glow brand names.

FMI Products, LLC is excited to announce the “birth” of VestaFlame, our newest brand name. VestaFlame will replace the old Vanguard name previously used.

This name change is necessary to avoid future confusion within the hearth industry. VestaFlame will continue to offer the same quality products utilizing the same product names as we have in the past. This outstanding product line will continue to be produced from both our manufacturing facilities as has been the practice over the past many years.

For details or further information, contact Glenn Thomson Senior VP Sales and Marketing at www.gthomson@fmiproducts.com Circle Reader Service No. 50

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Vesta Flame

by FMI PRODUCTS, LLC

VANGUARD

®

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HWI Trough Due to the success of HPC’s new exclusive thermocouple (TCI module) hot-wire ignition system, it is now available in the company’s very popular stainlesssteel, electronic-ignition Trough firepits. The Trough design provides customers with a sleek, linear fire feature for their residential or commercial applications. Contact: (877) 433-7001 or www.hearthproductscontrols.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 190

New SGV/DGV Special Gas Vent Systems HeatFab announces a new single- and double-wall special gas vent system. SGV/DGV is a safe and reliable venting solution for category I, II, III, and IV gas appliances. This UL 1738/ULC S-636 listed special gas vent features a unique stainless-steel alloy featuring exceptional corrosion resistance and an easy-to-install connection system. Get HeatFab quality in an economical design. Contact: www.selkirkcorp.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 191

Belgard Outdoorliving Kits Belgard has partnered with Harmony Outdoor Living to create prefabricated modules for outdoor fireplaces, kitchens, and living rooms. These modules (or kits) are preassembled in Harmony’s factory, combining Harmony fireplaces, firepits, and fire tables with Belgard pavers and wall products to make outdoor-room construction a snap. An additional benefit to homeowners is the ability to phase in their dream designs by adding one prefabricated element at a time. A homeowner can start with a patio and later add a kitchen; then, a fireplace; then, a seat wall; and so on, as desired. Contact: (877) BELGARD or www.belgard.biz.

Circle Reader Service No. 193

Bison Charcoal Head and Cart This charcoal grill from Bull Outdoor Products began shipping in late 2009. It is available as a builtin head and in a cart version. Like the company’s other grills, this is a bullish 16-gauge 304 stainless-steel unit with a dual-lined hood, a temperature gauge, and 810 square inches of cooking surface. There are front and side airflow adjustments, and the grill has a three-cage adjustable charcoal tray. This is perfect for that customer who insists on quality and insists on charcoal grilling. Contact: (800) 521-2855 or www.bullbbq.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 194

Face It: Fireplace Facelifts Are In Ironhaus adds designer style to the hearth by offering handcrafted fireplace enclosures for most gas fireplaces: Town & Country, Mendota, FMI, Design Dynamics, Heatilator, Heat & Glo, Lennox, Kozy Heat, and more. Contact the company with your bestselling gas fireplace and let Ironhaus face it. Check out the fireplace designs at the Ironhaus Web site. Contact: (866) 880-0900, sales@ironhaus.com, or www.ironhaus.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 192

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ZipJack Custom Umbrellas introduces a new line of patio umbrellas designed to provide colorful, shaded play spaces for youngsters. KidBrellas are a great way to protect kids from the sun.

KidBrellas easily convert from table umbrella to play space and feature bright, bold silkscreened animal illustrations with extended side panels that provide extra coverage.

Contact: (914) 592-2000, sales@zipjack.com, or www.zipjack.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 195

Live Chat WoodPellets.com introduces live chat, an online resource enabling customers to receive real-time, direct access to pellet experts. In a manner similar to instant messaging, customers can ask questions about pellet heating and get instant answers. WoodPellets.com experts also connect customers with local providers of heating systems to answer questions about routine pellet-stove, pellet-furnace, and pellet-boiler maintenance and to offer their expertise on how to purchase the pelletburning appliance that’s right for them. Contact: www.WoodPellets.com.

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TK Torch HPC’s new TK torch is designed to stay lit in winds of up to 30 mph. It offers a built-in flame-safety circuit to cut off gas flow if the torch is blown out; it stands 8 feet tall and is available as a kit or complete (ready to install). Contact: (877) 433-7001 or www.hearthproductscontrols.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 197

Kamado Joe Heat Deflector The Kamado Joe® heat deflector adds great versatility to your outdoor cooking. This unique two-setting design, with four different configurations, allows you to bake, grill, or smoke with indirect heat. The heat deflector circulates the heat around your food to keep it moist and tender. Use it with the Kamado Joe pizza stone for even greater flexibility.

Contact: (678) 866-0642 or www.kamadojoe.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 198

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Shanghai 10 Fiberglassribbed Umbrella Today’s consumer wants an elegant and unique design, without sacrificing strength. Treasure Garden® has upgraded the classic Shanghai-style umbrella, increasing the umbrella’s size by over 17%, to a 10-foot diameter, and upgrading its 24 ribs to a flexible and durable fiberglass material. The Shanghai™ 10 is available for the 2010 season in black finish in Treasure Garden’s four signature series O’bravia FlexWeave solution-dyed polyester fabrics. This striking design is accented by a fluted pole and features the company’s patented Twist-Tilt mechanism. Contact: info@treasuregarden.com or www.treasuregarden.com.

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Porta-Chef Pro The Porta-Chef® Pro is the little grill with big features. It’s perfect for tailgating. Just snap in the legs, stand it up, and you’re set. Featuring a 16,000Btu stainless-steel tubular burner system, a cast-iron cooking grid, and 360 square inches of total cooking surface, the Porta-Chef Pro offers an unprecedented amount of cooking capacity for a portable grill. Contact: (800) 2455138 or www.broilkingbbq.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 200

Belgard Hardscapes Natural Collection Mega-Lafitt pavers combined with the BelAir™ wall collection offer the ideal combination for coordinating colors and textures where pleasing aesthetics are a key consideration. The Mega-Lafitt pavers combine the look and feel of cut flagstone with strength and long-term durability; matched with the BelAir wall, they can be used for curves to corners, terraces to raised patios, raised garden beds to seating benches, and steps to columns. Contact: (877) BELGARD or www.belgard.biz.

Circle Reader Service No. 201

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Minden Master Range Top Grill

Outdoor-rated 304 Stainlesssteel Fridge

The Minden Grill Company, a Northern Nevada-based corporation, has announced the introduction of three new colors for its awardwinning Minden Master Range Top grill. Fire-engine red, classic black, and cobalt blue Range Top grills are now available, along with the forest green Range Top grill. In August 2009, the Minden Master Range Top grill was awarded the first place Gourmet Golds Award in the cookware and bakeware division at the Gourmet Housewares Show in San Francisco, California. The patented Range Top grill allows users to experience true barbecue cooking on their kitchen ranges. Contact: www.mindengrill.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 202

Many dealers and customers of Bull Outdoor Products have asked it for an outdoor-rated fridge. The company has worked hard to introduce a product that will compete well with products that cost hundreds of dollars more. This is a UL-rated 304 stainless-steel refrigerator with a reversible door. It is front venting, and it offers 4.1 cubic feet of storage space. It is perfect for custom building, and it can be placed in any Bull island as an upgrade.

Contact: (800) 521-2855 or www.bullbbq.com.

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PGS B-40 Grill

Alpine Linear Burner The Alpine linear burner by Golden Blount is a contemporary alternative to the traditional gas log. It is available in 24-, 30-, 36-, 42-, 48-, 60-, and 72-inch sizes, and 10 separate powder-coated finishes offer a variety of choices to match any decor. True linear flame tips can be used with optional sand, vermiculite, or decorative glass and stone. Available with match-lit, remote-ready, or spark-to-pilot ignition, the Alpine linear burner is a unique product that gives customers that modern linear look using their existing fireplaces. Contact: (800) 833-1139 or www.goldenblountinc.com.

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Industry News

AEI Corp. has launched its new PGS model B-40 grill.

The B-40 will join the premium lineup of PGS performance grilling systems from AEI, which includes the Legacy Pro series stainlesssteel grills and the A series of premium cast-aluminum grills.

AEI offers the most complete lineup of premium gas grills and outdoor patio heaters in the United States. The B-40 combines a porcelain-on-steel lower grill body with a contoured stainless-steel top. The unit (portable or masonry) will be fully assembled in one carton. Just insert the casters, attach the side shelves, hook up the fuel source, and you’re ready to do some serious grilling. Contact: (949) 474-3070 or www.aeigrillsandheaters.com.

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Continued from page 13

has over 200 years of design, engineering, manufacturing, product, and customer-service experience, took time to research what the market wanted in design and price. The Crimson Casual workforce has been producing top-quality casual furniture since 1975. Crimson uses parts machined using computer numerical control, thicker-walled aluminum, and an elaborate finishing product that guarantees the best in U.S. quality.

Owned by a private investment group, Crimson Casual is headed by Jon Bennett, chair and CEO; Tim Smith, COO; and Bobby Tesney, director. Tesney is the former president of Winston Furniture Company and former CEO of Winslow Furniture, and under his leadership, these companies introduced innovations in sling and cushion seating, powder-coated frames, and fabric, in addition to the introduction of an order-turnaround time of 15 working days.

For 2010, Crimson Casual offers a wide range of product groupings in both cushion and sling styles. A variety of beautiful frame finishes and fabrics from leading U.S. manufacturers will give the consumer many choices. Crimson also offers a large choice of tables, including an innovative, machined-billet aluminum tabletop. Crimson Casual has purchased the most elaborate powdercoating system available, which will give customers the best finish in the industry. Manufacturing will begin in March 2010 at the Crimson Casual facility in Haleyville, Alabama.

“I am excited to have a role in the casual industry again,” Tesney says. “The team we have assembled at Crimson Casual has experience in our core values, which include service, quality, and delivery, and the management team includes members from the industry with whom I have had a 30-year relationship. The Crimson commitment remains true to these same values.” For more information about Crimson Casual and its commitment to top-quality U.S.-made products, visit www.crimsoncasual.com.

Minuteman International/ ACHLA Designs Mourns President Bob Miller Robert C. Miller, 55, who served as president of Minuteman International/ ACHLA® Designs (Fitchburg, Massachusetts) for 15 years, died suddenly on December 29, 2009. He leaves his wife of 21 years, Debra A. (McInnis) Miller; two daughters, Amanda A. Brady and her husband, David, of Leicester, and Sharyn M. Miller of Worcester; the mother of his children, Maryellen Pratte, of Leicester; a sister, Beverly J. Miller, of Worcester; two grandsons, Jack and Henry Brady; and several aunts, uncles, nephews, and nieces. Miller enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandsons. He enjoyed fishing, working, and riding his motorcycle.

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Ad Index Advertiser

Phone

Product Profiles Directory Web site

Page

Company

Page

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

AEI....................................................................................................50, 77

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

Agio..................................................................................................48, 55

American Fireglass ....................................(888) 264-1017......www.americanfireglass.com ............43

American Fireglass ..............................................................................48, 53

Belgard....................................................(877) 235-4273......www.belgard.biz ..........................41

Belgard..............................................................................................75, 76

Big Green Egg..........................................(770) 938-9394......www.biggreenegg.com ..................55

Big Green Egg....................................................................................48, 52

Bull Outdoor Products ................................(800) 521-2855......www.bullbbq.com ..........................27

Bull Outdoor Products ..........................................................................75, 77

California Outdoor Concepts ......................(877) 274-6773......www.californiaoutdoorconcepts.com..21

California Outdoor Concepts ................................................................48, 58

Caluco ....................................................(866) 535-6558......www.caluco.com ..........................57

Caluco ..............................................................................................48, 50

The Companion Group ..............................(800) 521-0505......www.companion-group.com ............19

Casual Creations ......................................................................................69

D&J Architectural Precast..............................(866) 305-5387......www.djap.net................................70

The Companion Group ........................................................................48, 50

DiversiTech ..............................................(866) 474-5572......www.diversitech.com ......................60

DiversiTech ........................................................................................50, 52

Elmira Stove Works ....................................(800) 295-8498......www.elmirastoveworks.com..............12

Elmira Stove Works ..............................................................................50, 54

Empire Comfort Systems ..............................(800) 851-3153......www.empirecomfort.com ................15

Empire Comfort Systems........................................................................50, 54

Enviro ......................................................(250) 652-3223......www.enviro.com ............................37

Enviro ................................................................................................52, 55

FMI Products ............................................(866) 328-4537......www.fmiproducts.com ....................74

FMI Products ......................................................................................55, 56

Gensun Casual ........................................(866) 964-4468......www.gensuncasual.com ....................9

Gensun Casual ..................................................................................55, 56

Glen Raven/Sunbrella ................................(336) 221-2211......www.sunbrella.com ........................53

Glen Raven/Sunbrella ..........................................................................56, 59

Golden Blount ..........................................(800) 833-1139......www.goldenblountinc.com ..............16

Golden Blount ....................................................................................72, 77

The HammockSource..................................(800) 334-1078......www.thehammocksource.com ..........54

The HammockSource............................................................................53, 58

Hargrove Manufacturing ............................(800) 725-4166......www.hargrovegaslogs.com ..............61

Hargrove Manufacturing ......................................................................58, 62

Hearth & Home Technologies/Harman Stove (800) 433-7261......www.harmanstoves.com ..................23

Hearth & Home Technologies/Harman Stove..................................................64

Hearth & Home Technologies/Quadra-Fire ....(800) 926-4356......www.quadrafire.com ......................80

Hearth & Home Technologies/Heat & Glo ....................................................59

Hearth Products Controls ............................(877) 433-7001......www.hearthproductscontrols.com ......44

Hearth & Home Technologies/Heatilator..................................................60, 62

Hitzer ......................................................(260) 589-8536......www.hitzer.com ............................72

Hearth Products Controls ......................................................................75, 76

The Holland Grill Company ........................(800) 880-9766......www.hollandgrill.com ....................29

Hitzer ................................................................................................60, 73

Homecrest ................................................(877) 599-4803......www.homecrest.com ......................71

The Holland Grill Company ..................................................................61, 64

Hudson River Stove Works ..........................(800) 873-1330......www.hudsonriverstoves.com ............65

Homecrest ..........................................................................................61, 73

Infratech ..................................................(800) 421-9455......www.infratech-usa.com....................67

Hudson River Stove Works ..........................................................................63

Ironhaus ..................................................(866) 880-0900......www.ironhaus.com ........................39

Infratech ............................................................................................53, 59

Kamado Joe..............................................(678) 866-0642......www.kamadojoe.com ....................36

Ironhaus ............................................................................................64, 75

Lennox Hearth Products ..............................(800) 361-4909......www.securitychimneys.com ................3

Kamado Joe........................................................................................64, 76

MLW Stone ..............................................(800) 477-7665......www.mlwstone.com........................64

Lennox Hearth Products ........................................................................61, 62

Marth ......................................................(715) 842-9200......www.marthwood.com ....................75

MLW Stone ..............................................................................................66

Miles Industries ..........................................(800) 468-2567......www.valorfireplaces.com ................17

Marth ................................................................................................62, 65

Minden Grill ............................................(888) 985-2249......www.mindengrill.com......................62

Miles Industries ....................................................................................63, 71

Modern Home Products ..............................(888) 647-4745......www.mhpgrills.com ........................69

Minden Grill ......................................................................................66, 77

Monessen Hearth Systems ..........................(800) 867-0454......www.vermontcastings.com ..............25

Modern Home Products ........................................................................66, 68

Morsø......................................................(866) 883-9619......www.morsona.com ........................56

Monessen Hearth Systems ....................................................................63, 68

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

Morsø................................................................................................65, 66

Omega Mantels ........................................(877) 254-3965......www.omegamouldings.com ............79

Napoleon Products ..............................................................................67, 70

Onward Manufacturing/Broil King................(800) 245-5138......www.broilkingbbq.com ..................51

Omega Mantels ..................................................................................67, 70

Outdura ..................................................(866) 688-3872......www.shufordmills.com ....................33

Onward Manufacturing/Broil King ........................................................71, 76

Oxford Garden ........................................(877) 866-3331......www.oxfordgarden.com ..................13

Outdura ............................................................................................54, 60

Rinnai ......................................................(800) 621-9419......www.rinnai.us................................49

Oxford Garden ..................................................................................65, 66

Robert H. Peterson Company ......................(800) 332-0240......www.rhpeterson.com ......................59

Rinnai ................................................................................................69, 70

Selkirk Corp. ............................................(800) 992-8368......www.selkirkcorp.com ......................35

Robert H. Peterson Company ................................................................68, 70

Shademaker ............................................(626) 338-8810......www.shademakerusa.com ..............45

Selkirk Corp. ......................................................................................69, 75

Simpson Dura-Vent ....................................(800) 835-4429......www.duravent.com ........................40

Simpson Dura-Vent ..............................................................................72, 74

Team Grill ................................................(978) 635-1800......www.teamgrill.com ........................58

Team Grill ..........................................................................................71, 74

Treasure Garden/Shademaker ....................(626) 814-0168......www.treasuregarden.com ..................2

Treasure Garden/Shademaker ..............................................................72, 76

Two Dogs Designs for Outdoor Living ............(866) 896-3644......www.twodogsdesigns.com ..............63

Two Dogs Designs for Outdoor Living ......................................................69, 72

Tyler Retail Systems ....................................(800) 237-5913......www.tylernet.com ..........................73

Tyler Retail Systems ..............................................................................72, 74

WoodMaster ............................................(800) 932-3629......www.nwmdealer.com......................68

WoodMaster ......................................................................................67, 71

WoodPellets.Com ......................................(800) 735-5387......www.woodpellets.com ....................47

WoodPellets.Com ................................................................................71, 76

ZipJack Custom Umbrellas ..........................(914) 592-2000......www.zipjackumbrellas.com ..............52

ZipJack Custom Umbrellas ....................................................................73, 76

Patio & Hearth Products Report (ISSN 1939-6929) is published bimonthly by Peninsula Media, 21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 700, Torrance, CA 90503. US Postage Paid at Lebanon Junction, KY 40150.

January/February 2010, Vol 5, No 1 © 2010 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.

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